The entire house starts rumbling, murmurs of joy escape through the wall, and a nice aromatic smell engulfs the air. It’s like the place itself is jubilant about its guests’ presence. Still, a house shaking is not normal, and you need to find shelter! Danger is not good!

Vera and Vortexia hide behind you. Confused but not deterred, Kushi follows their example. You have three full party members. Your crew walks over to Beth…

“H-Help, please!” You don’t get what’s going on.

“What are you afraid of?” Beth asks almost tauntingly. Your Courage decides not to speak, or it’ll be trouble.

“The unknown.” You say as the strange sounds heighten…

“I’ll protect you from all harm, love…” Beth finds you so charming, she takes you under her wing. It’s more like a hug. One of the good ones! But you feel trapped in her comfort…

The others decide to hide behind her back. You look like a dumb football team.

“W-Why is the house crumbling…?” Vortexia wonders.

“Bad construction. Why are we still inside?!” Vera wonders.

“It’s… nothing of the sort?” Kushi doesn’t get where they are getting the idea.

“Uhm, everyone. It’s the vacuum turning off.” Crossbill deadpans. “It’s old.”

“That’s not how vacuums work!!!” Vera hates this silly explanation.

Anyway, more delightful criminals show up!

“Ahoy! It’s the unmasked buccaneer and his crew!” It’s Sally the Pirate! The last part hasn’t been confirmed, but she fits the aesthetic. “Oh, with new faces! Hooray!”

“You… look vaguely familiar…” Vortexia notices something about the pirate girl.

“I thought there wasn’t a date confirmed for his visit. Welcome, anyhow.” It’s Zyra Banks the… other prisoner! You feel terrible for not knowing more about her. “Please, make yourselves comfortable if you can.”

“Sorry, sorry! I thought a surprise would be better!” Crossbill apologizes to the girls.

“I-It’s an exciting prospect.” Zyra doesn’t know how to act anymore.

“It’s an amazing surprise!!!” Sally doesn’t want her to get the wrong idea. “Even little Vera is here! You escaped us last time, you cute seashell!”

“Mhm, lil’ Scarlet wanted you to join us back then at the shop…” Beth turns her eyes on the little mouse…”It’s time we make good on that.”

“U-U-Uhm…!” Vera didn’t think she’d get targeted.

“We’re going to pamper you all, little cuties…” Beth promises with a grin on her face as she holds you tighter...

“Enjoy it, idiots.” Crossbill smirks from far away as she closes the door behind you all…

Sadly, cooking with Kushi will have to wait for next time! Thanks for playing, and see you there! To 200 more threads in the future!