The Monster Multiverse

*As usual, this topic is ONLY for the RP itself, any questions about characters, developments, joining in, etc. should be posted in the thread in the Battlemamono section. With that being said, let the fun begin...*

It is a warm, pleasant day in early spring, people are out enjoying the sun or working in front of their homes. The village of Septencusto is situated about two days' travel to the south of Nu-Rome proper, so the legion ensures that very few if any dangerous loci beasts pose a threat nearby. It is also the village traditionally governed by the noble house Caelum (the other great houses of Nu-Rome each have their "own" village, of course). So it is probably quite natural that the majority of the legion detachment assigned to the village consists of cavalry, though a sizeable infantry component, a few strong mages and even half a dozen aerial troops can also be found here.

Xander, your master, the archmage Caius Sciranus (as his name implies, a member of the noble house Sciranus, known for its focus on magic), has told you to go to the prefect's office. Apparently, the legion is considering forming small teams of specialists to tackle problems that require more power than a single tamer and his harem can provide but that are not important enough to warrant having truly powerful and famous (and thus, expensive) tamers look into things, let alone require the legion to get involved "officially".
Thus, your master - for reasons of his own, you suppose - has "volunteered" you to become a part of the first such team. He did say something about allowing you to get some "practical knowledge of how things really work", but it is very clear that this is not only an opportunity for you to make a name for yourself but also one to go down in history as a complete failure...
Be that as it may, as you approach the legion's compound, the gate guard (two Wulfguards that could be twins) asks you to state your business.

Giovanni, you and Ilaria have been ordered to report to the prefect's office. You are not really sure why (you did not break any regulations as far as you know - or at least nobody has caught you yet...), but your firstbond just grinned at your worries. Apparently, she knows more than she is telling...
When you enter the office, the legionnaire on duty there (a Lumelegarto) asks you to wait and tells you that the prefect will see you as soon as "the others" are here. The knowing look exchanged between Ilaria and the lizardgirl gives credit to your suspicion that the Inutenkuu knows what is going on.

Itami, one of the legion's officers who occasionally shares a drink with you and sometimes directs a little business your way has told you about an upcoming opportunity for more steady work. Apparently, the legion is going to make some kind of "test run" for a small team of specialists to tackle problems that are more than one man and his wife (or wives) can take care of but that don't require an "all out assault". Due to your history - and because, really, you have nothing better to do - you agreed and arrive at the legion's compound at the appointed time. In front of you, you see a young man talking to the gate guards. From his appearance, you assume he is a mage (you don't see any armour or much in the way of weapons). His bearing also suggests to you that he might lack experience in taking care of himself out in the wilderness.

Magnus, the legion is going to try establishing small teams of specialists to tackle certain kinds of problems, and you have been asked (let's be honest, you were ordered...) to join the first such team. Partly to make sure the legion retains at least some control over said team, but also because if this works out, it will give you a way to gain enough fame to at least partially offset the consequences of certain decisions you made.
On your way to the prefect's office, you meet the Sulfurr Ylva, who is your second-in-command. "Well, well, Knight Crusader, going somewhere in a hurry?" she asks with a chuckle. "Does Isadora know that you're practically running towards the Centaurion quarters here in the compound?"

As the lizardgirl leaves, GIovanni raises an eyebrow satirically, "A new playmate for fluff?" He questions with a smirk, "Or are we planning on a surprise?" he inquires curiously.

(Ilaria look's a little flustered, as if her hands were caught in the cookie jar) "Just enjoying the view, same as you," playful-catty smile creeps across her face, but she just tilts her head and shrugs her shoulders, her tail swaying in anticipation. "You worry too much," she purrs as she brushes Giovanni's cheek.

He gently grabs her hand, kisses it. "Don't give me reason to worry," he suavely replies.
Ilaria leans in churring, tail wrapped around Giovanni, wrapping an arm around his neck, plants a kiss on his lips nibbling a little on his lower lip, "It's alright you are always there to save me," she teases and lean back, she gently taps his nose with a single finger with a lite boop and smiles.
Giovanni brushes the hair out of her eye, "Oh Love-Fluff," he sniggers and starts kissing her neck
He then wraps his arms around her waist, he places a hand on Ilaria's firm ass, giving a rhythmically-massaging grope
"Are you gonna tell me what's going on willingly or am I gonna have to keep teasin' " Giovanni threatened with a lecherous grin
"I'm not saying anything," she breaths heavily her face is flushed. "Try as you might–" Ilaria moans and purrs "I'm gonna not make a peep," a lusty grin spreads across Ilaria's face
"Well then I'll just have to try harder," Giovanni's other begins working up Ilaria's inner thigh
Ilaria starts to purr and whimper in protest, her face blushed red as Giovanni's fingers worked wonders on her now moist nethers, "Tell me or its just going to get better," Giovanni says with a wide lecherous grin, as much as I wanted (guess I'll just make it my view, probably should have) to know what was going on, I was a little more focused on making Ilaria feeling nice. Ilaria wraps her legs around my waist, we start to topple towards the door, we both yelp a little as my back hits the door and smooshes Ilaria' s tail. “Mewouch!," she glares lustily and playful bites on my shoulder, "Owhahahow," I laugh in pain, to which I respond with a light smack on her ass. She gleefully squeaks, and leans in and passionately kissing me. I find one of the seats in the room and somehow maneuver both of us into the seat so that Ilaria is in my lap. She knows it's time to calm down but won't stop nuzzling my neck, which I'm perfectly happy with but I ask her, "Seriously, what is going on Love-Fluff? Why were we called here?" To which she begins telling me,"It seems we're going to be going out on a team," still nuzzling my neck, I'm stroking her hair and I ask her, "Why? What are these teams needed for?", "Seems that the higher-ups want to try something new as well as maybe cutting out some expenditure by using the teams instead of those more expensive and lavish tamer harems," Ilaria churred on, it was something she wanted to be part of, a large harem. Something I wanted to be part of as well, that's probably why we both joined the Legion. That sense of a huge family, and maybe we might, no not maybe, but soon we're gonna make one of our own.

Well, it looks like it’s time to shine… maybe, I’m not sure seeing as outside of any and all practical lessons, I’ve never really had the opportunity to try live action. Which is what I was thinking this was going to teach me, but the longer I thought about it, I could only see it as a type of coerced ‘volunteer’ work. Letting out a sigh, I couldn’t help but wonder to myself why Archmage Sciranus would set me up for a task that would no doubt end in my failure. Eh, oh well, I may fail, but I’ll do my damndest to make it look as good as possible.

As I was thinking, I noted that my feet had carried me to my destination. Just outside the prefect office, upon which two Wulfguard woman (looking fine as is there race) and asked me to state my business. Clearing my throat, I pat out my pockets for a bit to get the letter I was given to state my business here.

“One second here ladies…”

With a bit of exaggerated motions, I finally found what I was looking for and present the letter the Archmage gave me.

“I happen to be a volunteer for one of the legion teams being organized for this little… ah… expedition.”

With a wide grin, I presented the letter. Though this did seem like grunt work of a sort, I can’t help but feel a little excited over it.

Magnus, the legion is going to try establishing small teams of specialists to tackle certain kinds of problems, and you have been asked (let's be honest, you were ordered...) to join the first such team. Partly to make sure the legion retains at least some control over said team, but also because if this works out, it will give you a way to gain enough fame to at least partially offset the consequences of certain decisions you made.

On your way to the prefect's office, you meet the Sulfurr Ylva, who is your second-in-command. "Well, well, Knight Crusader, going somewhere in a hurry?" she asks with a chuckle. "Does Isadora know that you're practically running towards the Centaurion quarters here in the compound?"

"The day had been going so well to." Magnus thought as he traversed the back walkways of the fairly large town know as Septencusto.

It was to be another mundane, but normal day for the Knight Crusader. Show up to the barracks, over watch basic training and drilling of all the infantry units before releasing them to their respective commanders. After the normal morning routine Magnus would than return to his office and deal with the normal administrative work when running an entire infantry legion while listening to the various problems found in the military. Another day in military. So, when he finally arrived to his rather spacious office and found his secretary absent was the moment that deep pit in his stomach made itself know. The other moment was when he opened his door and found no scrolls amassed in a pile on his desk, but a single folded piece of paper with the Perfect's seal stamped directly in the center he cursed.

Now Magnus found himself taking more of the back walkways to quickly reach the Perfect's office (Citadel really) to learn more about this 'team' he was to assemble and test.

"Well, well, Knight Crusader, going somewhere in a hurry? "Does Isadora know that you're practically running towards the Centaurion quarters here in the compound?"

Of course every chisel waited until today before breaking didn't it?

Turning to look over this shoulder, Magnus found his 'problem' Second-in-command practically skipping his way. Of everyone to have run into why did it have to be Ylva?

"Good morning to you to Paladin Crusader Ylva." Magnus offered, trying to maintain his professionalism and hide his annoyance. "Dear Isadora is all to aware of my daily visit to the Centaurion quarters..somebody has to clean the shit they willing start, and who better than a Caelum?"

"Also, why are you here Ylva? Aren't you suppose to be on leave or did they block it again?"

This place is really great, real comfortable. I guess I'm just gonna get settled in. 'Time to move on, get on with my life'. Yes, absolutely.

Now, like I said it was a long time ago. Let it go. Seriously.

Definitely more style than where I had come from.

No. If I'm honest, I just got kinda bored of boozing. I mean, once in a while but not all the time.

You're right - It wasn't doing me any favors. Maybe I lost my self-respect but it's back... I'm... excited... really. I really needed a new start.

I think you're right. I think I am going to like it here. It certainly... It certainly ain't Corazona.

It's my new life, just like you said.

Listen, if I can still do a job, what have I got to lose? Apart from the weight. Very funny. Haha. Yeah that was a fake laugh, you jerk.

-------------

I arrived here in Septencusto a few weeks before. A friend of mine directed me here to go join some 'team of specialists' that dealt with stuff too much for a Tamer and his wives but too small for a Legion. This was a new thing the folks of Nu-Rome thought up so I guess me and a few lucky others are going to be pioneering this little gig.

I went to the legion's compound in time and apparently so was another guy who was tall, wore glasses, had blonde hair like mine and looked physically able. I didn't see him wearing any armor nor weapons so I'm guessing he was a mage of sorts. He was there talking to the gate guards who were... had wolf-like traits. I stared at the bottom of a glass too much that I had forgotten what they were called. I needed to brush up my encyclopedias if I'm heading where I think I'm heading.

The mage guy then presented a letter to the guards.

Animajunki123 wrote:“I happen to be a volunteer for one of the legion teams being organized for this little… ah… expedition.”

I approached them and decided to join in to save the wolf ladies time and trouble. "I am too. But uhh... I don't have papers of any sort." I didn't hear of any application sheets that needed filling out so if there was one, I was going back to Corazona. The more I thought about that, the more it sounded a good idea to just turn back and return to my natural habitat: Sitting around, getting wasted and feeling sorry for myself.

Giovanni, for a moment, you wonder whether making out in the prefect's office is really a good idea, but Ilaria certainly knows how to... capture... your attention. She seems to be fully intent on making you lose control and damn the consequences. Pushing you back, she grins down at you. "Seems I have to remind you who's in charge here," she chuckles. Grinding against you, she clearly enjoys the reaction that elicits from you, though she takes care not to end it too quickly. "So, what kind of mamono are you thinking of taming first?" she asks. "And how exactly do you plan to... convince... me that I should share you?"

Xander, the two Wulfguards look at each other and one rolls her eyes. "With that attitude, he'd be a perfect match for 'Knight Crusader' Justine," she says to the other (the way she emphasizes the title makes it pretty clear what she thinks of the other mamono). Looking at you with a raised eyebrow, the other replies, "I don't know, he might not be into whipping and all that stuff. Then again, he might..."
With a shrug, the other mamono points you to the large building where you're supposed to go. "You'd better hurry, the prefect isn't particularly patient with people who are late. And you'd better pray that you're never late when his firstbond takes over for him."

Magnus, the Sulfurr does not miss a beat and replies with a broad grin, "Actually, I was on my way to a nice breakfast in town when Augusta asked me to make sure you'd be there on time." Winking at you, she adds, "Word is, someone is hoping you'd mess up in some way so that they can drag you screaming towards a good, strong centaur." Leaning over for a moment, she adds in a low voice, "That would probably be fun to watch, don't you think?" And with that, she turns around and leaves the compound, giving you no time to throw your rank around.

Arriving at the prefect's office, you see an Inutenkuu and a human legionnaire making out. While that is not exactly an unusual sight on Lupa, doing so in the prefect's office is not a good idea (unless of course you are said prefect...). With what Ylva just suggested, you would probably be held accountable if the prefect just happened to show up right now...

Itami, the two mamono just grin at you. "Don't worry, sweety," one of them says. "The prefect isn't one to waste time with paperwork." The other chuckles. "No, he isn't. His firstbond, now..." The two legionnaires laugh, but they also wave you through the gate and tell you to follow the other guy. On the way to the building where the prefect's office is apparently situated, you see a few mamono and men lounging in the morning sun and several squads training with weapons. As far as you can tell, just a normal day in town. You also notice that a few mamono watch you closely, though you cannot really tell whether they are actually interested in you or just curious what someone who obviously is not a legionnaire might be doing here.

"I was thinking of something strong and regal, you know a Dragynn. Something of a challenge indeed, but something you and I can easily accomplish. Although they are kind of arrogant but they should be pretty impressed by my prowess" (I flex my arms) Ilaria giggles, "Yes your prowess," she palms my forehead, "I'm still not convinced, I heard they were hard to find, well more like pursue," Ilaria goes back to nuzzling my neck, "It's more like they will only approach you if they are interested," I grin, "Well that would make luckily impressive would it not, hey that's how I got you." Ilaria give a little pouty murr, "Hmmmm.... maybe, let me think about it," I smile and stroke her head. "I also think that maybe if we're lucky and run across a Starspawn or two," Ilaria's ears perked up in annoyance along with her tail twitching in annoyance, "There you go again, with your superstitious luck thing, but fine it would be lucky to come across one would be interesting," she purred. "Yeah it would be--" the door opens and in walks Magnus, "shi--- Sir!" I immediately stand up with a salute, with Ilaria falling out of my lap with a me-ouch, "Sorry love-fluff," I whisper. Ilaria quickly stands and gives a proper salute, with a glare tossed my way, "There's gonna be more teeth next time," she hissed quietly at me. I don't know whether to be concerned or excited. But what was my immediate concern was Magnus, "Sir, the prefect is not here sir, can I help you with something sir?"

Magnus, the Sulfurr does not miss a beat and replies with a broad grin, "Actually, I was on my way to a nice breakfast in town when Augusta asked me to make sure you'd be there on time." Winking at you, she adds, "Word is, someone is hoping you'd mess up in some way so that they can drag you screaming towards a good, strong centaur." Leaning over for a moment, she adds in a low voice, "That would probably be fun to watch, don't you think?" And with that, she turns around and leaves the compound, giving you no time to throw your rank around.

Arriving at the prefect's office, you see an Inutenkuu and a human legionnaire making out. While that is not exactly an unusual sight on Lupa, doing so in the prefect's office is not a good idea (unless of course you are said prefect...). With what Ylva just suggested, you would probably be held accountable if the prefect just happened to show up right now...

"Augusta is involving herself now?"Magnus thought as he watch his second in command, the Sulfurr Ylva leaving the compound and back into the semi bustling back streets.

Ylva wasn't a bad or disrespectful mamono but crossed the line of friendship and rank more times than needed. There's a time and place to drop the military persona and be yourself but to do this while on duty only created potential problems for both parties involved. Still, her little surprise visit did have its merits. It scratched that itch he was having about this unusual summon, and created questions he necessarily didn't want to ask. Until he had a better understanding of what the Perfect wanted, Magnus would keep his concerns to himself.

Turning back toward the compound, the Knight Crusader noticed an usual lack of personnel moving to and from the compound's main gate. Sure there were two Wulfguards chatting up with a couple of civis but other than that no others were seen entering or leaving. Hell there should be more than two guards at the gate alone. Magnus trotted up toward the gate and walked on through not waiting to see if the guards would stop or salute him. Judging from their continued taunting of the two gentlemen he assumed they didn't see him or just ignored him, he'll worry about that later.

Adding this to his small but growing mental list of concerns,a few squads here and there were using their time productively but it looked more attune to kids swing sticks while their companions watched from the comfort of a tree or the shaded walls. The rest of the walk earned similar results, with the exception of the mandatory desks and guard placements the normal crowd was nonexistent. So when Magnus climbed the stairs to the third floor, walked all the down the hall and turned left to find the Perfects secretary not at her desk paused to consider his options when a bump from the Perfect's Office got his attention.

Hesitation consumed him but decided to open the door anyway.

"Sir. Knight Cru..."

That wasn't the Perfect..or one of his wives either.

The two parties remained locked for two seconds before the legionnaire in show of discipline launched himself off the Perfect's desk, dropping the poor girl in the process. If the situation was different Magnus might have gave the soldier a slight nod of approval, but this wasn't such a situation and THIS one needed to be sorted and corrected NOW.

"Sir, the prefect is not here sir, can I help you with something sir?" The soldier asks while his companion joins his side before standing at attention as well.

Magnus says nothing as his eyes just linger on the pair before him, letting them stand at attention while he pondered his response. He turned to look behind him and noted the still empty desk and lack of sounds echoing down the hall before returning the pair.

"Yes. There is something you can help me with Legionnarie. What in ancestors' name are you two doing in his office, let alone on his desk!"

Seeing as the letter had no meaning here at the moment (I knew the Archmage shouldn’t have bothered) I tucked it away in the pocket I found it in before I gave both wulfguards a kindly nod, though I was unsure what they meant by the ‘whipping’ statement.

“Understood. Thank you for your time.”

Looking back, I note the other man who had shown up, and wanting to be courteous, waited for him to get done with his own conversation before I made my way to the prefects office. On the way there, I noted some people and mamono waiting around while others in the courtyard where busy training. I took note of some of the Mamonos gazes, though I think they were busy eyeing the guy behind me rather than at me. Eventually I found where I needed to be, the door to the prefects office and deciding now would be as good a time as any, knocked on the door.

“Pardon me. Would I be correct in thinking this is the office of the individual in charge, and if so, May I come in?”

"Sir we were order to meet in the Prefect's office, and as he was not here I decided that we should try to do some interrogation tactics," Well that wasn't a total lie I was trying to get something out of Ilaria. If it weren't Magnus. To make it worse Ilaria was trying her best to not snicker, but her face was slightly blushing. I heard a knock on the door and a voice calling, whew man I hope I'm lucky. "Sir there seems to be someone at the door?"

"Thanks."

I followed the other guy who had the goodwill to wait for me. Despite that, no words were exchanged between us. I guess there would be another time for that. Inside a military compound were military people just relaxing while some were training with their weapons. I never thought I'd be joining Nu-Rome's Legion guys. I didn't peg myself to be an obedient soldier nor a team player. I suppose this was the time to find out if I was right.

Glancing around, I noticed that some of the Mamono Legionnaires were looking at me. It was either they were interested in me or wondering why some non-Legionnaire guy was running around inside their turf. Since the dude in front of me didn't look Legionnaire either, I was willing to bet that it was the former. Unfortunately I wasn't interested in them - I'm married. Or, was anyway.

Soon, both me and the mage guy made it to the Prefect's office. He was the first to knock on the door and asked if visitors were welcome right now.

Giovanni, you get the distinct feeling that the officer standing in front of you is not amused, though you might be spared an extensive tongue-lashing by the two young men suddenly showing up. Apparently, they are here for the same reason you are, and from the looks of them, one of them seems to be a mage while the other looks like some kind of hunter. Curiously, neither of them seems to be bonded, so unless the officer is (Ilaria can probably tell you later - mamono can sense that, after all), you just might be the only one with a wife.

Xander, while one of the men in the office is obviously an officer, after a closer look, you don't think he's the prefect. His attitude does hint that he's someone you'll be dealing with quite a lot, however. After a few moments, another man and three mamono approach. He is wearing armour and a sword at his side, as is one of the mamono with him, the other is wearing a robe. Behind those three, a lizardgirl can be seen, her attitude suggests she's some kind of secretary or aide.

Itami, you see two men and a mamono standing in the office. From the looks of it, one is an officer dressing down the other two. You're not sure what they did, but then again, do you really care? Anyway, you don't have to wait for long before the prefect finally shows up. He's accompanied by three mamono, their behaviour suggests two of them are his wives. The third, a Lumelegarto, looks at you appraisingly, though her expression quickly turns neutral when one of the others glances at her.

Magnus, you'll have to admit that their excuse is original if nothing else. Not that it's going to save them, especially not if the prefect gets wind of this. But be that as it may, it appears you'll have your hands full if these two are any indication of the characters in your new squad.
But at least the two young men appearing behind you and asking for the 'individual in charge' seem to be at least a little less prone to engage in... questionable... behaviour. Though you probably shouldn't get your hopes up too much...
A short time later, you hear the steps of several people approaching. It seems as if the prefect as finally on his way. Maybe now you'll get some details about what your future holds.
"Ah, Magnus, you're here. Good," the prefect says. He motions all of you into his office and sits down behind his table, while his two wives, Augusta and Sabina, stand behind him. His aide, a Lumelegarto, stays behind you, almost as if to make sure none of you can escape.
The prefect only glances at the two legionnaires you were about to dress down, though you get the feeling he knows what's been going on. "Well, you all have been asked to come here in order to join a team of... let's say... 'special operatives'. While you will be operating more independently than most legionnaires, you will be considered part of the legion, so you will be expected to act accordingly." He looks at everyone in turn. "If you have any questions, now is the time to ask."

Whew thank my luck for civilians, just barging in. Hmmm... seems the typical Mage, maybe a little more athletic than usual, he probably spends most of his time reading judging by those specs on his face. Still carries himself like a mage, that air of arrogance or something. The other guy, so sort of sad sack, looks like he can hold his own, ugh must be me because I can smell the lingering scent of alcohol and something that was burnt, I make a slightly displeased face. Ilaria relaxed a little as well when those two came in, and she reacted the same way to the other guy, at least I knew I wasn't going crazy smelling things that aren't there. It's understandable that Magnus isn't accompanied by his wife, I heard rumors but if they are true or not that's up to him if he wants to tell us, but a Mage with no wife, that has me curious because they usually have at least one or two. And I wonder about the other one. Damn it no time to relax, both me and Ilaria salute again as the Prefect and his wives walk in. "Special Operatives' my ass, but being able to scout out stuff is what me and Ilaria do best so some independence is nice. I give Ilaria a look, "Prefect Sir, what exactly is our mission?" Special OPs have always interested me, but they also make me concerned. I hate not knowing details.

Hearing something akin to people talking, I was tempted to recall my earlier statement and just stay quiet for a moment, but my curiosity got the better of em and I opted to open the door instead. If this was something relating to the task I was given, I would probably want to know more about it. The moment I did and I suddenly realized what might be the situation. A man of no doubt superior status from myself and from the looks of it, an individual I would more than likely be dealing with quite often. The other one, a man and his wife where currently getting something of a tough look from said superior officer. However, the officer didn’t appear to be the prefect, so I entered the room and made myself sparse off in the corner, and with the guy who came in after me. Nothing like being in an awkward situation with a buddy after all, even if he is someone you just met.

“Hate to barge in… I happen to be here on… orders? Yeah, let’s go with orders, of Archmage Caius Sciranus to… ‘assist’ with something… he was rather vague about the whole thing… By the by, my name is-”

However, before I got to complete my introduction, a man who was no doubt the prefect entered the room with three woman two of whom I could assume where his wives while the last, a lizardwoman of some sort, was a secretary. She seemed to give everyone an appraising look before she took a neutral stance behind the prefect.

The Prefect entered the room and upon seeing the officer, instantly seemed to recognize him. This told me that the man… Magnus as he was just called, was someone I would no doubt answer to quite often. Before I could continue to mentally evaluate everyone else in the room, the prefect motioned for everyone into to room before he took his seat and addressed everyone. Not sure how to react, I decided to do what most mage apprentices did when someone of higher rank came in. Shut up and listen intently.

"Well, you all have been asked to come here in order to join a team of... let's say... 'special operatives'. While you will be operating more independently than most legionnaires, you will be considered part of the legion, so you will be expected to act accordingly."

He looks at everyone in turn.

"If you have any questions, now is the time to ask."

I was going to ask a question, but the man who just dodged a bullet spoke up first.

"Prefect Sir, what exactly is our mission?"

A good question, but not the one I was going to ask. I wait a moment for the Prefect to answer that question first before I raise my hand and impose my own.
“Sir… You said we will be expected to act as part of the legion… if I may be so imposing as to ask a question, am I expected to undertake legionnaire training?”

Not to say I wouldn’t do it if I was told to, but it just makes my situation all the more depressing if the Archmage sent me here to get rid of me. That would totally suck. But hey it is what it is I suppose. Suddenly remembering, I pull out the letter I got from the archmage and show it to the prefect.

“My apologies sir, I was to give this to you the moment I met with you… something about an introduction to my abilities and performance at the academy.”

Upon placing the letter on the prefects desk, I respectfully took a step back and waited patiently for everyone else to get done with what they needed.

Magnus, you'll have to admit that their excuse is original if nothing else. Not that it's going to save them, especially not if the prefect gets wind of this. But be that as it may, it appears you'll have your hands full if these two are any indication of the characters in your new squad.
But at least the two young men appearing behind you and asking for the 'individual in charge' seem to be at least a little less prone to engage in... questionable... behaviour. Though you probably shouldn't get your hopes up too much...

A short time later, you hear the steps of several people approaching. It seems as if the prefect as finally on his way. Maybe now you'll get some details about what your future holds.

"Ah, Magnus, you're here. Good," the prefect says. He motions all of you into his office and sits down behind his table, while his two wives, Augusta and Sabina, stand behind him. His aide, a Lumelegarto, stays behind you, almost as if to make sure none of you can escape.
The prefect only glances at the two legionnaires you were about to dress down, though you get the feeling he knows what's been going on. "Well, you all have been asked to come here in order to join a team of... let's say... 'special operatives'. While you will be operating more independently than most legionnaires, you will be considered part of the legion, so you will be expected to act accordingly." He looks at everyone in turn. "If you have any questions, now is the time to ask."

The two new comers were a welcome changed of pace for it likely meant less people he'll have to watch out for. Before introductions could be established was the moment the Perfect, his wives and his far too effective secretary.

"Ah, Magnus, you're here. Good." The Perfect said as he walked into the crowding office.

Magnus held his tongue but nodded his head while bending slightly forward at the waist, an informal salute meant more for social occasions between officers. He watched with everyone else has the Perfect comfortably took a seat and disclosed the mysterious reason for summoning a diverse group of individuals.

Special operatives wasn't exactly what he had in mind but it did peak his interest. Especially according to someone, Magnus had a lot riding(no pun intended) on the success of this mission. What exactly were they going to do that needed Legionnaires, a mage and whoever the other one was? Luckily, depending who you asked the Perfect gave permission to speak.

If you have any questions, now is the time to ask."

An opportunity he surely was going to take but was beaten by those more eager, so Magnus once again held his tongue. Waiting to see what questions would be asked and if lucky might end up having some his own answered in the process.

My uninteracted buddy opened the door and before us were two guys and some canine girl, one of the guys looked like something and also looked like he was tearing the other two a new one. I was not sure what they did but I was pretty sure I had nothing to do with it.

Before any of us could make sense of the situation, a guy who looked like the Prefect himself showed up with three other Mamono girls. The two Mamono looked like his wives while the third, who looked like some sort of lizard girl, glanced at me, probably sizing me up. I don't blame her, I was the guy who looked the most out of place in this compound. I just stared back at her and realized she was likely some sort of secretary.

It was then the Prefect motioned us all into his office. He sat behind the desk while his two wives stood beside him while the lizard girl stayed behind us. Or more particularly, behind me. I was at the backmost of the volunteering crowd.

Firedragon wrote:"Well, you all have been asked to come here in order to join a team of... let's say... 'special operatives'. While you will be operating more independently than most legionnaires, you will be considered part of the legion, so you will be expected to act accordingly. If you have any questions, now is the time to ask."

Questions were already hurled at him the moment he said that. I just stood quietly at the back and listened, I mean, what else was I gonna do? I just hoped drinking two to three bottles of alcohol every day was still considered Legion behavior.

Animajunki123 wrote:“Sir… You said we will be expected to act as part of the legion… if I may be so imposing as to ask a question, am I expected to undertake legionnaire training?”

I wanted to smirk a little; did he seriously think that he was being enrolled in the Legion? But I kept my composure since Magnus, the Prefect and his wives were all there; screw up here good luck getting anywhere. But this Mage's credentials had me curious.

"One more question, why us? You have a pretty random assortment of skill sets between all of us from what I can guess; again why us?"

Giovanni, your question is answered by one of the prefect's wives, a Cromcruach. "Your mission is basically to find out what your mission is - and act accordingly." Not very helpful, is it?
With a glance at her, the prefect comments, "That's the gist of it, yes. But I think they'd like a few more details." The mamono only shrugs. Turning back to you, he elaborates, "Among other things, this special squad will be sent to determine what exactly is going on when the matter isn't clear. And you will be expected to deal with any minor disturbances on your own, using your best judgement and without requiring specific orders." Giving you all a little time to think about that, he adds, "You will also be sent to deal with problems that require a more organized response than that which the locals can provide but which does not require the legion to become involved in a major way."

Xander, the prefect quickly reads your master's note and then hands it to the other mamono standing behind him. "Ah, yes, Caius mentioned that he'd send his apprentice. Quite a recommendation, you know." Looking at his wife, a Charmsnake, he asks, "Wouldn't you agree, love? Your brother isn't one to send a failure to us, is he?" The lamia grins at him. "No, but neither is he above playing his own private games." Looking at you for a moment before turning back to him, she adds, "So you'd better expect him to have his own reasons for 'helping' you with your plan."
The prefect looks thoughtful. "You're probably right." A moment later, he looks at you again. "Be that as it may, your duties will primarily include providing arcane support, especially since none of you is bonded to a strong mage." The Cromcruach takes up where he leaves off and answers your question about the training. "How much formal training you take part in is more or less up to you. As long as your performance is up to expectations, your place in this special squad affords you quite a bit more leeway concerning the usual regulations than is usually the case." Looking straight at the legionnaire and his wife standing next to you, she adds, "You should take care not to go overboard with that..."

Magnus, after Augusta has more or less directly told the two legionnaires you were about to chew out before the prefect and his wives showed up that she knows exactly what they've been up to, the prefect finally turns to you. "As a Knight Crusader, Magnus, you'll be in command of this squad, and while you're free to request additional support when necessary, you should try to make do without it whenever possible." Sabina, the Charmsnake, adds, "You know that there are... elements... who would like nothing more than see this little idea fail. And you with it..."
The prefect nods at this. "Still, it should be alright if you occasionally asked a friend or two to help out. While Ylva is your second-in-command and will take over your other duties for the time being, if she chose to spend her free time with you, that would be her business." For a fleeting moment, the Cromcruach grins at you, though she doesn't say anything.

Itami, the prefect continues to explain, "You've been asked to join this squad so that your different abilities combined allow you to tackle problems without requiring much 'outside' help. If this works out the way I hope it will, we'll have an option between sending one or two legionnaires and directly asking a professional tamer and his harem to take care of a problem."
Turning to you, he asks, "And do you have any questions?" You suddenly feel a light push propelling you forward. The lizardgirl standing behind you looks as if butter wouldn't melt in her mouth, but it was obviously her who forced you to the front. Seems as if you can't avoid answering the question...

The others' questions were answered. Like I thought, all we had to do was deal with problems too small for a Legion. At least we didn't have to be bogged down by the normal Legion regulations so long as we did our jobs and be good little boys. The prefect made the guy named Magnus to be our leader. He was a 'Knight Crusader' apparently. I had no idea what that title meant honestly. Probably some big shot from the looks of it.

After the prefect answered the questions, he asked if there were any more. Specifically, he asked if I had any. I felt a light push forward by none other than the lizard girl secretary behind me. I didn't see her do it but it was either her or somebody in the room had pushing powers. "I... No sir. I don't have any questions." I replied. "Well, the questions I did have were already answered." I added.

Eh? Still suspicious, even more so since Magnus is going to be leading it. Smells like politics, worse off its politics involving house Caelum, yay. It seems pretty bad, make a team with just enough Legion personnel and then throw in some unknown elements as well as a test mission, oh yea lets not forget about that mage and apparently his master likes playing games too. Man this sounds like one of those missions that is designed to ruin or at least disgrace someone if they fail but if they are lucky and succeed, nobody can touch them. Man it might of been better to have asked for an assignment back in Dianoch for Ilaria and I, too much Barracks politics here in Nu-Rome. Ilaria already knew what I was thinking and rolled her eyes at me, it was something we argued about as well. She had a pretty big family here, several sisters, brother-in-laws and a whole bunch of nieces and nephews. I met some, they are fun being around. I guess it's a good place for a family, but we had military careers. Sure Nu-Rome is the place to be if you are a Legionnaire, it's also one the harder spots for a Legionnaire and not because of the job.

However, when it comes to dealing with shots fired from House Caelum, it seems that Magnus is best at handling that. So I've heard anyways. In all honesty the mage could be some kind of political "assassin", he totally sounds like one especially hearing about the fact that his master likes to pull strings as well.

The other guy, still can't read him. Although it does seem like he's more apt to let someone do the work for him, very un-assassin like. Here's hoping for the best.