The Case of the Stolen Sustenance

[Asterion Khryseos]

It was no secret that Aster had something of a sweet tooth. From simple fruits and pots of yoghurt, to custom-made cakes and more intricate desserts, it wasn't unusual to see him sat down in the common room with a slice of cake and a cup of tea. And, if someone asked politely, he was usually happy to share a piece of it with them - as long as they didn't mind him talking their ear off, extolling the virtues of it and what kinds of tea were best to drink with it. However, whoever had taken the last slice of cake that he'd been saving as a treat for the weekend had not asked him.

He shut the fridge and opened it again, thinking himself to simply be missing it on the first go out of tiredness. It'd been a long week, after all, and he'd trained hard. It stood to reason that perhaps he was so worn down that he missed it on the first pass. Yet, no matter how hard he looked at the fridge, and no matter what containers and cans he pushed gingerly out of the way, the few desserts present were ones that he'd not bought. And, as if to add insult to injury, the plate he'd eaten it off was still there - crumbs, clingfilm, and all.

There was but one rule when it came to asking Aster if he'd share - never take the last slice. That was his, and his alone. But there that plate sat, a mocking reminder of what exactly he had been robbed of. This wouldn't stand. This couldn't be allowed to stand. Someone had committed the gravest sin he could think of - stealing his dessert. And for that, vengeance had to be wrought. But who was the criminal? And what kind of judgement would be levelled against them? Such thoughts plagued his mind to the point where he couldn't keep himself from taking up a puzzled (and distinctly unpleasant) expression.

[Al Ciendra]

Al herself may not have been a big sweet tooth such as her big buddy Aster, but she was still a major food-aholic, her focus being more on the hearty part of the menu, but nonetheless they shared their fair amount of similarities when it came to how they thought of food.

So, as Al was passing by, just having finished up on some overdue homework, she saw Aster at the community fridge, the same fridge she put a sandwich in for later, later being now, made her approach with a quizzical tilt of her head.
Al only wearing a casual red hoodie, PJ shorts and tights combo, was much less scary, even as she was still wearing her metal mask, she really had to ask her dad to make her a more casual looking mask.

Al walked up the big lug and the fridge he was staring at grumpily.
"I'm no expert on fridges but I don't think you should leave it open like this."
Al said, waving to him and passing by him, her gaze yet not leaving him as she reached for her sandwich.
"What's got you so grumpy, dude ?"
Al asked, as she felt for her sandwich, where was it ?
Her feeling around got faster as she slowly turned...
Al froze...
She looked into the fridge...
"Where the FUCK Is my Sandwich ?!"
Al asked, holding an empty plate, one that had even added a name tag to.
She looked at Aster, then at his empty plate, wait...
She put the plate on the counter, then slamming a fist into her palm, like someone having a fantastic idea in a show, it wasn't a good idea.
"Well, someone seems to think they are really clever swiping our food, what do you say we, wait for them to steal another thing and then beat them up!"
Al asked, an enraged glare behind her mask as she cracked her knuckles for emphasis.

[Asterion Khryseos]

So, not only had his cake been swiped, but Al's sandwich had vanished too - presumably at the hands of the person that had spirited away the last slice of his dessert. They weren't just an opportunistic thief, it would seem, but a repeat offender as well. Aster was tempted to agree with Al at first, and if the look on his face was anything to go by, he was worryingly close to hunting them down himself instead of waiting around. But as his eyes glanced over the items of his still left in the fridge, he noted something that had been left untouched - and had an idea.

"No, not yet. I think I've got something worse for them." He reached into the fridge and rummaged around a little, pulling dishes, bowls, and boxes out of the way, so that he could retrieve something of his own and place it down against the counter next to the fridge. It hit against the top with an unceremonious thud, and Aster stood back, letting Al get a good look at what it was that he'd unveiled for them to use. By all appearances, it seemed to be little more than a bowl of chilli peppers, but as if in response to such a notion, Aster was quick to explain what exactly those little red fruits were.

"I ordered some Vacuo Dragons, and now that they're here, there's something else I think we should do with them. I've still got some food left over, so if we bait them with that, and put these in there..."
A grin spread across Aster's face at the thought. It was not, however, that jolly look that was usually given, nor was it some polite smile. Combined with the devilish glint in his eyes, there could be no mistaking the fact that Aster was dead-set on getting up to shenanigans.

[Al Ciendra]

Al looked like she was raring to go storm out of the kitchen and go on a wild goose chase to find this food thief, but she was polite and as such waited for Aster to respond, but surely they'd be on their way in a moment's notice, maybe he was just starving and had to eat something first before chasing a thief, surely that was it.
He disagreed!
WHAT ?!
Had his stolen food made him this sad ?! What could she do to cheer him up ? She still had some chocolate back in her room.
Wait, no, Aster actually had a different idea on how to do this, Al's interest was piqued, easy to notice with the two bumps now forming in her hood as her ears perked up, to give him her whole 200% attention.
She had no idea about Vacou Dragons or anything, but she could read the box and noticed several warning labels, huh, guess her buddy really liked spicy stuff, Al could understand that, spicy stuff was good.

Either way, Al knew that grin, but she wasn't fully on board with it, chasing the thief just sounded way better, but...seeing them bite into their ill-gotten good's only for the first bite to set their gums ablaze and have them react in shock was one hell of an exciting prospect, and they could always chase them down once their trap had sprung.
In lack of a grin to show Al chuckled, while her mask did not betray any emotion, Aster would be able to tell that Al was fully on board with this now.
"Let's do it!
She pumped her fist in the air as she then quickly turned to the fridge and pulled out a metal lunchbox, it even had a lock on it, Al opened revealing what looked to be a homemade burger, with all the goods on it, but especially garlic and a very pungent cheese, it smelled great of course, to Al.
"Here, I kept this beaut in there to not bother anyone that may not have an as refined taste as I do, but now it will serve as our perfect second bait."
Al grabbed a plate and put the burger on it, opening the top.
"Here, prep it."
Once Aster put some of the Vacou Dragons on her burger, she'd spread the peppers very unevenly, shoving most of them into one corner of the burger, she then grabbed a knife and cut that quarter of the burger off and placed it on the plate that her sandwich was stolen from, then simply placing the rest of the burger in the microwave.
As she then turned to Aster.
"What ? I need to know how much our thief is gonna suffer...it's important research and stuff!"

Soon Al was sitting on the counter waiting for Aster to finish his prep, chowing down on her spicy burger with her mask pulled up, while happily letting her legs dangle, judging by her smile and the noises she was making, research had concluded that Al had found another spice she liked.

[Asterion Khryseos]

Though more a connoisseur of the sweet than the savoury, even Aster could appreciate the appeal of something loaded down with garlic and cheese. Quite how it'd managed to not leave the fridge smelling lightly of it - even with the metal box shielding it - he wasn't entirely certain, but now was hardly the time to question it. There'd be plenty of time for that when they'd finished trapping the culprit, and exacting their spicy vengeance upon them. And given how those peppers were just ripe enough that they seemed to practically glow red, Aster was certain that it'd hurt far more than any beating either of them could deliver.

“You got it boss, one serving coming right up!"
With practised precision, Aster set to work on the peppers. The knife moved slowly but methodically across the cutting board he'd pulled out of the cupboard, and soon enough, was nothing more than a pile of expertly-cut chunks of near-exact width, the stalk having long since been discarded into the bin. It was, given his usual attitude and fighting style, seemingly out of character - precision was the last thing on his mind half the time, and what few times he did need it, he was... less than stellar at it.

Nevertheless, when Al chowed down on hers, Aster flashed her a knowing smirk and brandished another from the bowl. One of the smaller ones, by the looks of things, but not quite the smallest. That dubious privilege had been reserved for the burger, so that their victim could share in the 'delights' of a fruit that had been likened to eating Fire Dust.
"If you like 'em on that, you should try my mum's chilli. last batch she made almost melted the pot." He popped the chilli he was holding - sans stalk - into his mouth, and chewed slowly, as if trying to squeeze out the heat into his mouth as much as possible before swallowing.

Aster didn't cough. He didn't hack, cry, sweat, or even flinch at it, despite the Vacuan Dragon's notorious reputation. With how casually he bit down into it, someone looking on might have thought that he was eating popcorn. It was debatable, just from glancing at him, whether or not he even felt the spice on his tongue at all.
"You want me to get some extra next time?" He asked with a smile, noting how much Al was enjoying her own portion. "You're not gonna find these in some regular old Vale shop, they still think pepper's spicy. Gotta get them special."

[Al Ciendra]

Al happily watched Aster cut up one of the peppers for her, it was actually really nice to share some food with him again, and he was actually doing pretty well, for such a big bloke Al would not have suspected that he had such swift hands, she was actually mesmerized by the sight for a solid few seconds, before the smell of delicious spicy goodness hit her nostrils and her train of thought was right back on food, right, that thing she needed and currently craved more than anything.

As she was finishing up, she could see Aster just pop one of these things right in his mouth, she looked at her 90% finished burger, then back at him chewing this thing like a piece of candy, then back at her burger, she was resilient to this stuff thanks to her semblance, at least that's what she knew, but she was sweating and Aster didn't even react!
"Dude, are you sure you're even faunus ?"
Al asked with some concern in her voice but mainly genuine curiosity.

Then the prompt of bringing more, while that did sound nice, Al had a better idea.
"That does sound nice, but maybe you could take me with you instead, I should get out more, been kinda wasting my time here in Vale on training and sleeping, so going shopping with you sounds like the perfect idea to 'spice' up my stay in here."
She giggled a little at her joke, before swinging her legs forward and jumping off the counter, now placing her prepared piece of the bait back into the fridge, having two baits had to be perfect.
"Now then, let's find us a hiding place, so we can jump our culprit."

A moment later, Al and Aster were sitting in one of the public spaces adjacent to the kitchen, for once Al had her hood pulled off to listen better for the fridge being opened and any following choking noise, her ears were twitching around in anticipation, this just HAD to work.

[Asterion Khryseos]

Al's shock barely even registered with Aster. Judging by how casually he popped it into his mouth and chewed, it seemed like he'd been doing it for a while - in fact, the only reaction he seemed to give was when she expressed surprise that he could do it. Even then, it was only a cocked eyebrow, as if she'd said something a little odd. However, as brash as Aster was, even he knew better than to eat with his mouth full, especially in the kitchen. The last thing people needed was to find half-chewed bits of chilli pepper on the kitchen counter.

However, he did spare a quiet chuckle at her pun. It was dumb, yes, but he loved bad jokes far more than he was willing to admit. It was only a small one though, and he quickly quietened himself when it became apparent that they'd need to hide. Quite where someone like him was supposed to hide, he wasn't sure - he was hardly the most slender of Hunters, nor was he the quietest. But he nodded and followed her lead, quickly taking his place somewhere that he hoped he was at least a little obscured. His horns weren't exactly easy to conceal, after all.

A glance backwards was spared every now and again. Subtle as he tried to make it, there was no hiding that he was getting antsy - every footstep that wasn't his or Al's made him twitch his head, before it shifted swiftly back into position.
"Come on..." He murmured, partly to Al, but partly to himself as well. "Hurry up already, I don't have all day..." They were good peppers, after all, and he didn't want them wasted on bait that wasn't taken. His fingers tapped impatiently against his other arm - it seemed he just couldn't seem to sit still, no matter what.

[Lin Motley]

Well, wasn't she lucky ?
Lin was a slop when it came to making food, usually it was Ela that shared snacks with her when they were in school otherwise she'd wait until she was home, where she could eat together with her family, as the two sisters didn't sleep in the dorms like some of their fellow students, but after combat classes the other day, the little mute was HUNGRY, but as luck would have it the community fridge was left unguarded, so swiftly she stole some off the food, the other students being non the wiser thanks to Lin simply flying silently over head.

And today it was her lucky day once again, the fridge was unguarded once more, she really should not let this become a habit but the food the other students put inside that thing just smelled too good, she would really have to apologize to the students she stole from, who ever it was had good taste.

So silently, Lin flew towards the fridge and opened it, her little eyes beaming with joy at what she saw inside, a good quarter of a burger, stuffed with all the goodies one could imagine, she'd never eat the whole thing but seeing a perfectly cut meal like this was just beautiful, it sure smelled strong though, just how she liked it.

Grabbing the plate with the burger on top, Lin chowed down, sighing happily at the savory and filling snack she stole, yes perfect!
...no...what was this aftertaste ?
Lin began to cough and hack, as her face went red and tears shot into her eyes, the delicious smell of the cheese and meat had covered up something else, who ever made this burger must be a masochist as the spiciness of this burger had an immediate effect on Lin.

She could hear some commotion from the room over as suddenly a tall faunus and a person wearing a metal mask stormed into the kitchen, they looked surprised yet angry and as if they were looking for a fight, Lin dropped her food and with a strong burst of wind shot forward, between the legs off the bull faunus, sliding across the tiled floor and down the corridor, she couldn't believe that she had gotten revenge pranked!
She had to find some milk or other milky food that she could use to cure herself of this spicy curse, but before that she would have to get rid of the two students chasing her, which by the looks of things would be much harder than she had hoped.

[Al Ciendra]

Al was also getting antsy, especially with how impatient Aster was acting, the big guy would blow their whole cover if the perpetrator were to take a single look over at them, but she could also not speak up to tell him to calm down as that would be even more suspicious.
So Al was sitting there, silently, just letting her ears scan the school corridors for any activity, she could hear people walk by yet no one approached the kitchen, which calmed her down just a bit, but also made her nervous, what if the thief had some sort of stealth semblance that made them unnoticeable even to her sensitive hearing, maybe she should call Bartok over ?

Yet suddenly the fridge door was opened, she still had heard no one even enter the kitchen, how was this possible ?!
She listened for a bit longer and sure enough she heard coughing, it sounded like a girl on the verge of tears, that had to be their thief!

Al shot up, grabbing Aster by the wrist and pulling him with her, well she let go the second she realized she had no chance of moving him, but quickly reached the entrance to the kitchen.

In front of the fridge stood a girl, blonde hair, red face, tears rolling down her cheeks and some weird blue marks across her skin, wow someone smaller than her for once, but she'd have to taunt her about that some other time, now it was time to get their revenge.
"Let's get her!"
Al exclaimed ready to jump at the thief, but, she was surprised to find the girl move way faster than she could have anticipated and in a way Al had not thought of, she flew!
Right down the corridor and away from them.
Without another word, Al took chase, using her own semblance to try to and catch up to the flying thief by propelling herself forward like a rocket, this was exhausting in the long run, but knowing Aster and his semblance, the long run was no problem, he should be able to make up her slack if necessary.

[Asterion Khryseos]

There she was - the culprit. Aster had to clench down hard on his wrist to keep from leaping up, and quite literally bite his tongue to keep from bellowing an accusation of theft at her. The plan needed patience, and after his favourite foods had been stolen despite the unspoken agreement he held with the rest of the dorms, he had precious little of it to spare. So when Al finally gave him the go-ahead, and he was clear to engage, Aster moved with speed the likes of which he had never gone before. One second he was sitting down quite comfortable, the next he was tearing towards his target.

He didn't bother to think much on her adverse reaction to spices he himself ate like apples. He didn't bother to try and think if he recognised her from anywhere. Hell, he barely even bothered to try and take in her features. There was only one thing on his mind at that moment, and it was the pursuit. His was a single-minded focus that locked on to the thief, and could not be shaken by anything short of divine intervention. The ground itself seemed to shake with the force that his feet pounded against it, his every step sending quakes rippling out around him.

The fact that she'd gone between his legs to achieve her lead only served as insult to injury, and a way to spur him on to run harder. Even without his Aura up, Aster ran like beast his horns came from, charging forward at breakneck pace - so long as he didn't have to turn any corners. But once that golden shimmer covered his body, it was no longer like being pursued by a man. It was as if a monster was after her, one that went beyond simple dogged determination. Unwavering focus, peerless speed, and strength supreme... it was difficult to say if there was even a spark of consciousness to his eyes as he barrelled forth.

[Lin Motley]

Well, this was all going horrible!
Not only had she been pranked, in the worst way possible, a way that still made Lin hack and cough, with tears now filling her pilot goggles as she raced down the hallway.
But the two students that had found her out were also hot on her tail, in one of their cases quite literally, as the masked person was using JET ENGINES TO FLY AFTER HER!
Lin gulped at that sight, at least the big bull wasn't able to keep pace, that would have been horrifying.
Then she heard his heavy footsteps close in, wait, no!
NO, NO, NO, NO!
There was genuine fear on Lin's face, this behemoth of a man had actually kept pace and WAS GAINING ON HER!
Why were both of these two so scarily fast ?!
Oh...
Yeah, she wasn't in signal anymore, her speed wasn't as extraordinary among academy students, the test had told her.
Lin sighed, a mistake, as more burning air coursed through her system.
If only they weren't in a somewhat narrow corridor, then she could at least leverage her ability to fly.
She had to make it to an exit, Lin started to look frantically for any windows or doors that would allow her to escape but nothing so far, or she had missed it due to the fiery tears still streaming down her face.

[Al Ciendra]

Well, despite the fact that Al currently wanted to do all kinds of horrible things to the little shit that had stolen her and her buddies' food, she had to respect her speed.
A semblance that allowed for flight was awesome, she could attest to that, but this girl was out doing her, unlike Al the glowing girl seemed to just be going faster and faster while she had to conserve her aura, lest she run into the issue of being stranded.

But Aster could do it, she thought, he was incredibly fast, reminding Al of their race through the cafeteria and the garden, where she had just barely squeezed out a win on him on the virtue of being more agile.
Perhaps to beat this food thief, some teamwork was in order ?
Teamwork, yeah, that thing she had to practice.

With one big blast, making the hall shake a little, Al leaped towards Aster, grabbing onto his back, her legs wrapping around his waist and her hands to his shoulders.
"Go get her!"
Al yelled against the wind, as she lifted a hand to throw a fireball...until she slipped, yeah no she needed both hands to hold on.
Plus, unlike her, Aster wasn't immune to her semblances effects, best to just cling on and preserve her power if this girl wanted to pick a fight.

[Asterion Khryseos]

Aster didn't reply with words - a single, loud, grunt was about the closest thing he let out that could be construed as one. Even then, it was difficult to tell whether he was acknowledging Al's command, or simply registering her presence before continuing his charge forward. Hell, it might not have been either, given that he'd not so much as flinched from the searing heat that soared past him when she'd hurled a fireball from atop his shoulders. As before, there was only one target that his focus was directed on, and that was the person that'd stolen his sweets.

Every step took him closer to her. Every stride closed that distance, little by little. In such a narrow space, and with so few turns, Aster's true speed finally had the chance to shine through, and he put pedal to metal without even a lick of hesitation. Like a speeding train, he hurtled along the floor, every footstep like thunder booming off of the walls, every breath billowing like steam from a locomotive. Before long, the gap had closed enough that - with his arm reaching out - he could almost grab her. Just a little more, and his hand could latch on, and drag her back to her fate. She'd face justice for the indignity they'd both had to suffer, no matter how far or how fast she ran.

[Melina Caedus]

Meanwhile somewhere nearby, mechanic wirring could be heard, joints turning and adjusting, together with rythmical metal steps. A small white figure in a beacon uniform slowly walked along the carpet of a hallway. It was no other than the shy and reclusive Melina who had just borrowed another book from the library, quietly humming a little melody as she walked to the dorm rooms.
While the normaly shy medic wouldn‘t usually strut about like she did now, today she was in a happy mood. She finally got her hands on a book she had her eyes on for a while and would go to spend the rest of the day reading it.

She had extensive medical knowledge relating to both humans and faunus and even limited biological knowledge to most lifeforms… all except the grimm. In Grimm study classes you usually only learned, abilities, strengths, weaknesses and how to most efficiently kill it. There was general knowledge about grimm behaviour and such, but the inner workings of a creature of pure darkness? Those are a complete mystery. While sure this book would most likely not give her the answers she was looking for, it was interesting to her nonetheless.

To her right was the exit to the academy gardens, the weather was mild outside with a light autumn breeze. Perfect for an open window, Melina thought as she then looked to the left where the hallway lay that led to the direction of her room. Her scarred lips parted as she exhaled calmly and rounded the corner left, already imagining with closed eyes what she could do to make the reading experience even better. Some tea would be great, maybe have Albedo play her a little song?

[Lin Motley]

(This reply is gonna count for Both Ela and Lin.)

There! A stream of bright light ahead, an exit, she could see the sunlight coming through the door and hear the outside world, only a few more meters, and she'd make it.
Lin clenched her fist as she let loose just a bit more shooting toward the exit and making some distance between her and the bull remaining lower to the ground so the bull had a harder time grabbing her, as bending over while running and with a weight on his back should be hard.
Yet suddenly, someone stepped into the hall!

Another student, Lin, tried to break her crash into the student, but she was way too late!
With a soft thud Lin hit the atlesian medic, she was as light as a paper blown around in the wind so there was no risk to either of them, yet.
As Lin turned, seeing the giant bull not slowing down,
Lin screamed in fear as she held onto the medic, this was it!
She'd get turned into paste by these two maniacs just because of some food.


Ela had sensed this feeling many times before, call it sisterly instinct or a gut feeling, but she knew Lin was in trouble after her little sister did not show up at their meeting place on time, usually she'd race her there and tease her about being a slowpoke, but not this time.
So Ela was on her way into the building still looking for Lin, a medic girl had just walked down the hallway Ela had entered, she looked quite knowledgeable with all those books in her arms, so Ela decided to ask her, heading after the Medic in a light sprint, as she then suddenly saw her sister and she was scared.
Instinct flared up as Ela hastened her sprint down the hallway, her arms and lower legs being covered in stone as Ela was ready to attack what ever caused her sister to let out such a terrified shout, Grimm in the school ? No that was impossible, what else ?
Ela rounded the corner...
And got into a combat pose a few feet in front of the medic girl and her sister just in time, as the charging faunus crashed into her, Ela levering her weight and height advantage over him by grabbing onto his shoulders and pushing down, as she gritted her teeth, spikes shot from her feet into the floor to slow her movement.
"Stop!"
She yelled at him and the masked person on his back.
As then with the crunching sound of rock, they came to a stop, just mere inches in front of the two people Ela did her best to protect.

Ela stood her ground, only letting go a few seconds later.
As she looked to the pair attacking, the medic and Lin.
Her lingering on Lin, then back to the two visibly annoyed students.
She should soothe these two first, putting on her friendliest smile, Ela began to talk.
Hello there, it seems that you two and my sister seem to have a disagreement of some kind, please allow me to apologize on her behalf."
She bowed to them, then looking back up with a stern look.
"Please tell me what it is she has done, so I may deal with it, I'll be sure to compensate you appropriately of course."
Ela looked over her shoulder, to her little sister, who was now hiding behind the atlesian medic.

Ah, this went from bad to worse, if Ela learned of her messing with the other students again she may get grounded.
But looking at the medic girl, maybe there was hope.
As Lin began to speak in sign language, about how she had stolen the food yes, but she was sorry and that she would never do it again, she'd even be willing to pay these two students back if it meant they'd be on good terms again, she'd even do a favor for her if she would help.

[Al Ciendra]

Well then...

Al first was in full panic as she saw Melina round the corner, the poor girl did not deserve to get trampled by Aster, Al was thinking on what to do, she had no idea what to do, she wasn't strong enough to stop Aster mid-charge.
So the only thing she could really do was, scream!
So she did.

But she was quieted as the tallest woman she had ever seen rounded the corner, marks on her skin like the little shit that was now clutching onto Melina, which got Al more than angry, placed herself between Aster and the two girls, she had some weird armor around her arms and legs and as she grabbed Aster by his shoulder Al was thrown of by the impact, luckily recovering and landing on her feet.
With a screeching and scrunching sound that made Al cringe, the two came to a halt, Al having to rub her ears a little to get them to stop stinging.
But this turned real interesting real fast, the new, giant, girl was trying to negotiate on her sister behalf and while Al was very tempted to still fight...doing so in Melina's presence and with that genuinely scared look the flying girl had did make her forget that idea real quick, so talking it was.
"Well, she stole our food...twice, second time we hid some vacuan spices, in our stuff to sniff her out aaaand here we are." So I think all is fine if you two buy us dinner"
Al looked to Aster, a smile behind her mask, really hoping that he'd be with her on this one.

[Asterion Khryseos]

The distance between them grew shorter with every step he took. Reaching out his arm, all it would take was a few moments more, and he'd be able to grab the thief, and show her what he thought of those that took his things. But, before he had the chance - a split second before his fingers could close around their collar, and drag them back - he found himself confronted by what could only be described as a wall of strength and sinew. Heavy as he was, and as fast as he was going, even Aster had to stop when she put herself in front of him.

It was not a graceful stop, by any means. Instinct seemed to guide him for a few moments, even after he slammed into the stranger's grip, and his legs worked on autopilot until his brain managed to catch up and appraise itself of what was happening. When he finally did manage to take stock of the situation enough to figure out what was happening, he stood straight, staggering backwards a little once he finally had a chance to right himself. He even seemed a little confused, at first - like he'd just exited a trance, and wasn't entirely certain what was going on.

However, he managed to shake himself out of his stupor in time to hear what Al was saying, and look down to see what he thought was an expectant look in her eyes. Part of him wanted to just let it all go with the promise that it wouldn't be a problem in the future - but a larger, louder, part of him demanded that justice be exacted, and that he be allowed his pound of flesh. Internally, a compromise was reached, and he looked back towards the pair in front of him while nodding firmly. He’d have his vengeance - in the form of a free lunch.

“As long as this doesn’t keep happening.” He said, crossing his arms across his chest. “Besides, you know you can just ask if you want some.”

[Melina Caedus]

There was a sudden noise, prompting Melina to open her eyes to what was in front of her. The scenery that unfolded itsself to her was jarring, everything went by so fast the medic couldn‘t immediately compute what was going on.
The first thing she spotted was a small girl in front of her… flying? And immediately after, a familiar no-face. Was that A…AAAAAAAL!?
Panic suddenly shot into Melina‘s head as she realized there was an enormous man bolting right at her. Closing her eyes, the combat medic braced for an impact, clutching her book tightly as she took somewhat of a stand… except there was only a light thud. She felt someone cling to her and right after the noise of breaking rock screeched through the hall, prompting her to open her eyes yet again.

Just as they say: ‘there is always a bigger fish‘. An even bigger woman had bolted past the medic and into the bull boys warpath to stop him, throwing off Al in the process. And shortly after, everything seemed to be calming down. The giantess began mediating between them, so she was the bigger sister. Melina looked to the girl clinging to her, who started moving her hands. She was using sign language! Not knowing wether to be happy to have found a mute or to be sad, she watched what the girl wanted to say.

With additionaly exposition from Al the situation was now more than clear. The girl clinging to her had stolen their food. While Melina couldn‘t condone such acts, violence like Al and the bull were seemingly planning was also out of the question. Only issue was, how was Melina going to stand up against this big burly bull? She felt lucky that they were taking Al‘s approach on reconciliation. Free food for the two.

Leaving one hand to hold her book, the other poked the clingy girl on the shoulder to get her attention. “Can you let go of me? I think you are safe now.“ Melina smiled at her, signing with one hand wasn‘t the fastest way to do it, since she could also talk with her mask, however it meant she was meeting the mute girl on her own level. Besides, Melina felt way more comfortable when she didn‘t have to use her mask, especially with this many people around.

[Lin Motley]

Well, Lin was glad this roller coaster had finally come to an abrupt end.
But now a possibly worse part was coming, she had to owe up for her mistake in front of her sister, which meant no lying or wriggling herself out of this.
The girl she was clinging to then tapped her shoulder, Lin looked up and was surprised to see her move her hands in motions she recognized, this girl was speaking in sign!
Lin despite her current situation was pretty happy about it, this at least meant that her small rent wasn't for nothing, and she was actually understood, wait no! She had finally met someone else she could talk to and left a horrible first impression, Lin was screaming at herself internally, but just sighed on the outside, nodding, she was right she had to apologize.

Gathering herself and looking at her sister, who turned around herself and was now intently looking at Lin.
The mute girl began to sign away, toward Aster and Al, who she knew wouldn't understand her, but her sister would translate.
Ela sighed in relief inwardly, it seemed that the cybernetic girl had given Lin at least a little bit of courage to speak up and not do what she usually did, find excuses.

As Lin started signing, Ela spoke up.
"My sister apologies for stealing your food, twice, she knows she messed up, and she's sorry, for what it's worth Lin will be buying your dish of choice at your restaurant of choice, no need to hold back."
Ela gave a pause for Lin to flinch, but continued afterward.
"I hope you accept this apology and that when you three meet again it will be on good terms."
Ela concluded with a pat to Lin's shoulder, who nodded as well.

[Asterion Khryseos]

Aster, in stark contrast to his peer, was completely incapable of understanding the motions set out before him. He recognised it as sign language, of course. But what the precise words were, or what the intent was, was completely lost on him. Nevertheless, this did not deter him from bearing a stern, disapproving look, though that much was to be expected when it was his food that was on the line. Fortunately for Aster, Ela was on hand to translate, and his gaze flicked intermittently between the two, though that was more out of being unsure as to who he was supposed to be paying attention to.

Eventually, after sizing them up and considering his options, Aster let out a noise that lay somewhere between a quiet sigh and a tired grunt, before looking at them both.
"I'm not buying it." Aster, despite the usual kindness in his nature, displayed nothing but distrust as he looked between the two. "Even if you stop taking our stuff, what's gonna stop you taking someone else's when nobody's looking?" The tension after his question hung in the air, so thick that it could be cut, and was only intensified by Aster's uncharacteristic silence.

It didn't seem to be an act either. While the blind rage he'd been engulfed by before had long since subsided, some lingering resentment clearly resided in him. He didn't seem to be feeling as malicious as he had only a few moments ago, if the calmer tone was anything to go by, but just because he didn't want revenge didn't mean he was ready to just accept that everything was going to be sunshine and rainbows from there on out.

[Melina Caedus]

Melina watched as the situation unfolded further. The clingy girl finally letting go of her and signing to her sister, explaining the situaiton and explaining that she was genuinly sorry. The bigger sister confirmed this to the both victims of the food thievery.
Although… they don‘t necessarily seem convinced. Al was sort of mellowing out of taking violent revenge, however the bigger one, the bull faunus… he wasn‘t convinced. He had a point, how would they know what the little girl was signing to her big sis?
Looking at the smaller sister, Melina could see all she needed to deduce that she was speaking, or rather signing, the truth. Melina knew from the battlefield, that a person is only truly honest when they are scared, and the girl was exactly that… scared. Though Melina was also sure it wasn‘t because she‘d fear the wrath of the two she had stolen from, she seemed more scared of her sister than anything… it didn‘t bode well.

Melina would say something, but she really didn‘t want to activate her mask now. She was not only scared of the big bull, but also feared scaring them… what should she do? There wasn‘t a real solution here, was there?
Then she felt an encouraging pat on her shoulder that even surprised her. Looking over her shoulder she saw that Albedo had formed from her aura, the white glowing knight levitating behind the combat medic as suddenly she felt something on her cheek being flicked. Albedo had flicked the switch to her mask, the metal parts now closing in front of Melina‘s mouth and nose with a silent wirr and the clicking of a mechanism falling in place.

There was no going back from that. Now that Albedo‘s appearance and the audible activation of her mask had brought Melina into the spotlight she had to speak up.
With a sigh, Melina adjusted the volume with a dial below her ear, a dull and echoing breath escaping the device followed by an echoeing rasp that first went quiet then raised in volume to what would be a normal cough.
“I understand your mistrust, but I think it‘s unwarranted.“
While Melina talked Albedo herself had shifted her position, now levitating behind Melina with crossed arms, staring at Al and and Aster. Even though she didn‘t have any expressions inside that helmet of hers, it was clear that she was judging the two.
“Also you two are maybe, sort of, kinda… overreacting? I don‘t mean to be rude, b-but I just think you are being too harsh for one day‘s worth of misguided actions.“
Maybe Melina could reason with the two this way. She was sure she could convince Al and maybe… just maybe… the big burly bull will relent afterwards aswell. The last thing the medic needed or wanted was a further escalation of the situation.
Still... what will they all think about her now that she used the mask?

[Al Ciendra]

Al watched the situation unfold silently for the most part.
The proposal from the sisters sounded good, and seeing the little shit get overruled by her sister was actually kind of satisfying.
She was about to simply agree to this, but Aster spoke up.
He made a very fair point, true, nothing was really stopping the mute from just stealing things again, hell, she'd be way smarter about it now.

The sudden glow that came from Melina startled Al a little, she had honestly forgotten that the medic was still here, but her presence was made very apparent by the floating knight behind her.
While Al still did not like the mask, as it made Melina sound like two people were talking over each other.
But what she said did make sense, and Al had no real reason to doubt her, especially not with Albedo judging her from above.

Al sighed, scratching the back of her neck.
"Melina's right, let's just let it slide this time, Aster."
She looked to her buddy and moved closer to him, laying an arm around his shoulder, best as she was able.
"Think about it, we get free food, and we know who to tell on in case someone here gets any bright ideas."
Al leveraged the cold gaze of her mask at Lin, before looking back to Aster, waiting for a reply.

[Ela Motley]

Ela could not help but feel somewhat annoyed at this faunus response, yes the situation wasn't ideal, but Lin wasn't some type of criminal, the demure atlesian medic seemed to agree, but the manner she voiced her opinion was strange, Ela knew atlesian technology was advanced, but she had never seen a mask like this was before, the knightly figure that moved independent of her creator was yet what really drew Ela's attention. This reveal also had Lin stare at the medic with bright eyes. Ela would have to ask her about these things later, for now she was just happy to have the medic back her up, showing a warm smile as thanks.

One member of the faunus duo was convinced, she seemingly knew the medic, as she called her by Melina.
But Ela's gaze drifted to the bull, both sisters looking at him for a reply.

[Asterion Khryseos]

Aster clearly wasn't pleased about the situation, nor that nobody seemed to agree with his assessment. A frown was drawn across his face, and his eyes looked down towards the floor, pensive as he tried to figure out what he was supposed to say to them all. However, much as he strained his mind for an appropriate answer, the only one he could come up with was giving them this one. Knowing there really wasn't any way out without acquiescing, he eventually let out a low sigh, and looked back up with a resigned expression worn.

"Fine." He said, almost grunting as he looked between those expecting an answer for him. "I give. We'll go through with it." Despite the less-than-pleased tone to his voice, Aster seemed more resigned than sullen about it. "Just don't let this happen again. If you really want some, just ask next time." He didn't entirely trust that his food was safe, even with the recent display. But the whole fiasco had been a lot of trouble - and given that he was already sharing his food freely, he supposed that reminding everyone that all they had to do was ask, was about the best compromise he could come to internally.

[Al Ciendra]

Well, this situation seemed resolved, even if Aster didn't seem happy about it, at all.
Al sighed internally, the big sister was trying her best to lift the mood with the promise of food and somewhat succeeded, and the other three could not be relied upon to make Aster feel better, this was definitely her responsibility.
First she turned to Lin, giving the little shit a very slow and obvious look up and down, before nodding, more to herself than to anyone else.
"Yeah, just ask, both of us can share when you're nice, however...
She gave Aster a friendly jab to the side.
"Never take the last slice from this big lug, nor from me, those are sacred, got it ?"

Seeing Lin nod quickly, Al chuckled to herself as she slung an arm around Aster's shoulder, looking up at him.
"Right then, they're still offering us a meal, I think you should pick Aster, what kinda grub do you want Lin to buy for us ?"
She left the choice solely to him, as she knew that if they had to discuss this Aster may not be 100% happy, so he could pick himself, they had a similar enough taste, so there was a high chance she'd enjoy his choice anyway.

[Asterion Khryseos]

Aster grunted, and then looked away. From the looks of things, however, it seemed that he wasn't that he didn't want to look at the others. Rather, it seemed more like he was lost in thought, carefully considering his options, to the point where his foot was tapping while he tried to figure out something. Despite his feelings towards the matter, he had no inclination of suggesting anything particularly expensive, and he at least wanted it to be something they could all stomach. For a moment or two, the cogs were whirring in his head, straining to the point that they could almost be heard.

Finally, he turned his head back towards those he was addressing, a serious look engraved into his features. He had reached a decision, though with the look that he gave his audience, and the tone with which he spoke, it sounded more as though he were meting out a sentence.
"A cafe." He finally said, with a voice that shook the air like thunder. "Somewhere that serves tea. And pastries." Such words, coming out of a man that had been an unstoppable behemoth barrelling forwards not a minute or two ago, might have seemed odd. But Aster had a sweet tooth, and somewhere simple that served sweets seemed like a good place to go.

[Al Ciendra]

Yet to Al this was no surprise what so ever, she herself wasn't as big a sweet tooth as her pal but that did not stop her from appreciating some sweets every now and then.
His choice was also quite obvious considering that Lin had stolen the piece of cake he had been looking forward towards.
So she just simply nodded.
"Alright, cafe it is, you just lead the way Aster."
Al said as she then turned to Melina.
"Wanna come with us ?

Ela observed the two, it seemed that a quick agremeent was made to please the previously not so pleased faunus.
Something Ela could respect, just as his choice of a cafe, she herself could use a coffee after this ordeal.
As the masked girl, known as Al apparently, turned to the shy yet also determined atlesian medic, who Ela was very greatful to regarding her help in resolving this mess, she wasn't sure how the medic would react to the rather casual invitation, but Ela herself would be happy to have her along, plus the medic looked like she could stand to go out more often.
"You are welcome to join us, my treat of course."
She offer with a friendly smile.

Having Melina along even seemed to excite Lin, the medic girl seemed like much more pleasent company than some people here, plus this was an excellent opportunity to observe some Atlas tech close up.
So she was smiling along side her sister, giving her a thumbs up.

[Melina Caedus]

It seemed that, despite Melina‘s initial worries, her involuntary input had the desired effect. That and probably Al chiming in helped make Aster more compliant with the prospect of forgiving the mute girl. Ela‘s thankful smile reassured the medic further whose embarassed blush was obscured by the metal device in front of her mouth and nose.

Then there moments of ardorous pondering from Aster, as Al had given him the courtesy of picking what sort of meal they‘ll be having. At this point Melina was almost wondering on whether or not her presence here was needed in any way futher or even wished for. She knew Al wouldn‘t mind her around and the two sisters seemed content enough with her presence, but Aster she couldn‘t figure out his disposition… especially now that he decided on a cafe with pastries. Such words coming from a big lug, maybe he was just a gentle giant that shouldn‘t be disturbed. The thought made him less scarier.

It was then that Al invited her to join them. Melina wanted to accept, but she didn‘t want to impose the prospect of the sisters needing to pay for 5 instead of 4 onto them. That was until Ela, the bigger one, too offered to join them.
“Yes, s-sure.“
It was then that she remembered she was still holding the book she just got from the library. She didn‘t want to keep them waiting, but didn‘t want to carry it around all day.
“Actually… if you don‘t mind, let me get this book to my room first. I‘ll be only a moment.“
Giving only a moment for the other to utter affirmations or similar, Melina jogged up the nearby stairs to her room, entering it only for a moment to put the book on the table beside her window and immediately exiting and locking it to go back to the others. Hopefully they excused the little delay this had caused.

[Asterion Khryseos]

Fortunately for Lin, the place Aster had in mind wasn't too expensive. Granted, five people ordering at once would be expensive no matter what was ordered, but he didn't care much for the plight of her wallet. She had seen fit to steal from him and Al, after all, so perhaps this much was warranted. His opinions of Lin's future financial state aside, Aster wasn't opposed to them having some more company, though only offered a few affirmative words, a grunt, and a nod, by way of acknowledging this. It'd be a while until the next airship down to Vale anyway - there was more than enough time to put things away.
—
The trip down was uneventful, and for the most part, so was the walk over to the spot his desired eatery was at. It was only on the last leg of the journey that suspicions may have been raised. He didn't lead them into some quaint little place at the side of the road, nor did he take them to a chain in one of Vale's more populated areas. Rather, he took them into what was ostensibly a dingy little pathway that ran behind and away from the streets, moving in odd angles and charting a course that was as convoluted as it was narrow.

Strangely - for the usually-exuberant man, at least - Aster said little, seeming instead to concentrate on the path ahead. He gave no reassurances that they weren't about to be mugged, nor that he knew where he was going. He simply kept moving, striding along the path with no small air of purpose to his stride. It was only when he reached some small wooden door wedged into a wall to their side that he stopped, and even then, it was only for long enough for him to swing the door wide open. What lay beyond that threshold could not have matched the path less.

The place was, in a word, homely. The bakery, lined with hardwood flooring and bare brick walls, was pleasantly warm - both in air, and atmosphere. Lit softly by the fixture overhead, and tinged by the enticing scent of freshly-baked loaves and pastries, most would have thought that Aster had waltzed into somebody's home, were it not for the wooden chairs and tables scattered about the place, and the various goods displayed in the window to the outside. The sound of a few people - a small team at most, it seemed - grew a little quieter when a man emerged from the kitchen.

"Aster!" He said, face breaking into a broad grin. "How've you been?"
Aster himself changed moods almost immediately upon hearing him speak, with a smile to match, and a gleam in his gaze. "Way too busy! They've been PILING work on us!"
"No rest for the wicked, eh? Well, come on in, and take a load off. Ah, and I see you brought friends too! Come in, come in, all of ou! We've just about finished the next batch, so you'd better order quick, before everything gets snapped up!"

[Al Ciendra]

Al was not worried, she had followed Aster through some weird stuff already, plus the narrow alley way reminded her of Azmarine, her home, so Al walked besides Aster, hands stuffed into her pockets.

The two sisters on the other hand both seemed a bit ill at ease, with how Lin was holding Ela's hand with both of her own as she floated behind her sister, who was scanning her surroundings anxiously, was this a trap ? Were Al and Aster way more violent than she had thought and were hoping to harm Lin where they were away from the school.
Why was Melina here, was she in on this ?!

Yet Ela immediately loosened up as she was greeted by the shockingly warm and welcoming atmosphere, why was this place back here ?!
Ela looked around after she entered, having to duck quite a bit to not hit her head on the door frame.

Lin herself seemed more than confused, as she floated in the room.
Looking between Aster, the man he was talking to, the place itself, and then her sister.
Simply resigning from asking anything with a sigh and shake of her head, as she took a seat at one of the few tables big enough for all of them.

Al meanwhile was ecstatic, bouncing back and forth on her heels next to Aster as she looked around, this place really did look just like the bakery back home did, warm, cozy and super welcoming.
"Wow dude, you should have taken me here earlier, this place is great."
She said as she then tilted her head in confusion.
"How'd you off all people even find it ?

Ela, who still stood by them, also raised an eyebrow in curiosity, yes she'd like to know that too.