Welcome to The Duality of Man, an original animanga role-play that features numerous supernatural creatures. Unfortunately, these various species have distanced themselves because of the war that occurred thousands of years ago, plaguing some with eyes that only see their dualism. While others meddle themself with their differences, two groups fight, each attempting to eliminate the other in for their definition of worldly peace. These two groups of the Terror Response Syndicate (TRS) and the Assembly of Phantoms (AP). With individuals fighting merely over their differences, it brings uncertainty to the outcome of this war.
We happily accept all role-players as long as they obey the rules and are capable of meeting our word count of 50. This does include those who are unfamiliar with this style of role-playing. The staff of The Duality of Man are willing to happily help those who are new to the role-playing world so they feel comfortable on site. Feel free to message the staff if you need help, they can be found here or in the site Discord and will gladly answer questions alongside calm concerns. If you have any suggestions we would love to hear them; guests may use the support board as a suggestion area as well. Should you decide to join, may I say welcome to the site and we all hope you enjoy your time here.
Yours Truely,
The Staff
season
Summer 2022
Heat has broken through into a glorious summer. The snow has entirely dried through the spring, leaving to the brilliance of the warmer months. Terror activity has risen as people are brought out of their homes, leaving the TRS in a position of consistent work. Each are attempting to maintain victory in the endless struggle for power.
With April, an activity check has arrived for members to do! Please post on the AC and tag all your accounts, including WIPs and OOC accounts. Failure to post on this AC will result in your accounts being marked inactive or deleted. Please note, due to a late start, the due date for this check has been adjusted for one time and one time only.
My my, I just can't lie It's the speed and the sound that I'm dying to try
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[attr="class","lovemad2"]
Perplexed, Abel attempted to shift his body, desiring to witness Benjamin's idea to give him power. After years of existing in this hefty body, there were few methods used to recharge his mechanical body. The first included resting in the specialized bed which doubled as a wireless charger meanwhile the second involved draining energy from appliances and effectively breaking them. However, his clever believed husband was somebody with ideas hidden in his sleeves, which was something Abel could admire about the green-haired man.
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Quick-thinking tactics accompanied by some resourcefulness were positives in any situation. These intelligent ideas were already impressing Abel despite not being shown Benjamin's invention. Curiosity was piqued because of Benjamin mentioning a possible solution to the power situation. The green-haired man mentioned showing him, Abel listening to the sounds of movement as the man prepared his grand reveal. Quietly, Abel listened to every word mentioned by Benjamin, intrigue increasing with each passing sentence which escaped his lips.
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"Okay... I am just wondering what the hell you have planned," Abel responded. "What could you possibly do to charge me up?"
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Clueless, the golem remained stationed on the couch, unable to move because of the damage down by the female bounty hunter. The electricity was manipulated from his circuits, only small portions still roaming for operation while his soul assisted with providing energy. The option of using the machine was appreciated, however, Abel knew avoiding Benjamin's plan could potentially mean a stumble home to charge... As Benjamin proceeded to speak, the blond offered nods of acknowledgement despite being in a different room, alas, Abel was clueless on what else to do.
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Eventually, the green-haired man returned to the living room, the golem watching as he moved closer. Assistance was offered in the form of an arm being lent. Slowly, Abel reached for him, subtle joy transcending over the golem because of their closeness. Heavily, the weighty bounty hunter attempting to stabilize, steadying himself as he prepared to move forward and finally witness what Benjamin made.
My my, I just can't lie It's the speed and the sound that I'm dying to try
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[attr="class","lovemad2"]
There was a warmth inside Abel the longer he spoke with Benjamin, the individual he was supposedly married to. The location the green-haired man placed the ring summoned hope. Despite everything negative which happened between them and the changes the blond underwent, Benjamin appeared keen on accepting those differences. Never had the golem felt the extremes of love, his husband's enamoured state manifesting pure happiness. The golem relaxed against the back stand of the couch, comfort being discovered because of their interactions.
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Happiness was discovery, the abode Benjamin brought him to genuinely starting to feel homely, although, Abel believed the green-haired man's presence assisted with those feelings. Then those magnificent words escaped Benjamin's lips which prompted the golem's emotion transmitters to manifest a fluster. Despite only recently becoming reacquainted with one another, the green-haired man confirmed he desired the marriage to proceed if he held a similar certainty. Softly, Abel smiled through his flustered, pleased at his husband's respectful choice in the situation.
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The golem watched Benjamin exit the room, thus he fixated on the photo album provided by him. Precious memories preserved in these paper-like replicas and cautiously safeguarded by the album. Softly, his fingers graced the pages, admiring the work and pleased by the comfort officially discovered by gazing upon them. One day, he would find a method to recover his memories and plunge deep into the beautiful realm of happiness. Hope finally shone onto the golem as he prayed those memories would eventually return to him.
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The blond patiently waited for his husband's returning, noticing him briefly come back before exiting again. Quietly, Abel waited, proceeding to gaze over the photographs. A small smile played across the golem's face, alas, tones of nervousness continued to enter his mind. The reassurances granted by Benjamin settled him somewhat relaxed, however, he still discovered difficulties. Only moments later did Abel hear footsteps returning, the green-haired man's voice reaching his ears and attracting his attention quickly.
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"What? How?" Abel inquired, voice confused.
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The golem shifted, unable to move from the position of his own volition. His countenance spoke plenty, bewilderment conquering each aspect as his golden irises locked directly on Benjamin. He desired an explanation before agreeing to become charged by whatever method Benjamin planned. Perhaps it was his reliance on other forms of charging, but Abel struggled to conclude. Due to forgotten memories, the green-haired man was a mystery, but an alluring one that maintained his attention without fault. This individual was interesting, and Benjamin loved every second of it.
My my, I just can't lie It's the speed and the sound that I'm dying to try
[break]
[attr="class","lovemad2"]
Shame filtered through the golem's mind as he offered the wedding ring to Benjamin, praying he would retrieve the item from his hands. Every horrible decision he made was hastily regretted after properly interacting with his presumed husband. The blond was notoriously reckless, his abrupt actions and words oftentimes hurting others. The sharp-tongued nature of his responses damaged Benjamin's feelings and likely proved that Abel was a lousy excuse for a husband. His failings in preserving Benjamin's feelings were abysmal, especially with the words stated in regards to the precious wedding band.
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A warmth encompassed Abel's hand, prompting his gaze to slowly drift to Benjamin's face where he discovered something surprising. The green-haired man did not appear angry with him and instead clung to his hand. Three words escaped Benjamin's lips which caused Abel's eyes to widen in astonishment. He felt honoured that despite the horrible things he shouted that the mysterious man was willing to treat him with seemingly endless kindness. The blond lacked a heart, yet, something inside fluttered, warmth seemingly filling his chests.
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Somewhere trapped inside his soul were the memories of their relationship, secretly hidden where theoretically nobody would discover them. The power of his soul pulsed through the heartcore, awakening previous reactions and seemingly simulating the flutter of a heart granted the bliss of happiness. Subtly, the golem's lips twitched into a small, appreciative smile, eyes softening as he watched Benjamin take the necklace. When his hand was released, Abel was surprised to watch the green-haired man slide the ring off of the chain.
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The band was slipped onto Benjamin's finger, delicately onto the finger expected to carry the band. It was a surprising action, something completely unexpected. The words which accompanied the action prompted a soft, yet, uncertain smile. A subtle hue of red manifested because of the emotions programming, but this time it was a welcomed sensation.
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"Yeah... I guess it is... I promise I will consider it, I just want to make sure we both want that still, you know? Just to be careful," Abel murmured.
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Afterwards, he observed as Benjamin prepared to have equipment brought over, the blond nodding to his words. Once the green-haired man exited the room, Abel's eyes returned to the photo album, but this time with a slight smile. Slowly, he began flipping through the pages, comforted by the actions Benjamin accomplished.
My my, I just can't lie It's the speed and the sound that I'm dying to try
[break]
[attr="class","lovemad2"]
Charging became a necessity since Abel was rebuilt as a golem, the hefty nature of his mechanized body being unable to be powered with merely his soul. Endless hours of work went into creating the weaponized golem, his mother carefully crafting each portion of his body. Nonetheless, even the cautious forging would inevitably arrive with weaknesses in his design and functionality. Everything possessed its flaws, therefore, Abel was no exception to those concepts. Aside from being a weighty machine, the golem was susceptible to water, intense heat and metal manipulators.
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The explanation appeared to bring a frown to the green-haired man's lips, Abel promptly joining him. The golem's yellow pupils remained fixated on Benjamin for a meagre few seconds before allowing them to shift to the photo album. Viewing the magnificent wedding pictures only maintained the frown on Abel's face. Moments earlier he informed Benjamin about how ridiculous keeping the golden marriage band was because of the ring's monetary earning. Admittedly, the blond felt horrible for the behaviour he displayed moments prior.
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Quietly, Abel listened to his presumed husband state there was no rush, a mere nod serving as acknowledgement. He allowed Benjamin to proceed to speak, a soft blush coating the bounty hunter's cheeks at the comment referring to the clothing.
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"Wh-what?!" He exclaimed out, glancing at Benjamin briefly to pout.
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The mere notion of wearing those shorter clothes embarrassed Abel. While it was nothing particularly revealing, wearing the awkward clothes would show more than the blond desired! Furthermore, the teasing nature of the comment implied a somewhat flirtatious vibe from the green-haired man. Only moments later, Benjamin declared he would search for a method to charge him. The couch stirred as the green-haired man rose, Abel's eyes locked on the wedding photos, where they widened as a memory surfaced.
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"Ben, wait!" The golem called out.
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Slowly, the bounty hunter's hand plunged into the pocket of his sleeveless sweater, mechanical fingers curling around a delicate necklace chain. There dangling from the chainlinks was Benjamin's wedding ring, the one callously torn off because of Abel's disgraceful comments towards its meagre monetary value. The blond's eyes refused to meet his presumed husband's as guilt racked him for those abhorrent words he stated. An emptiness had formed in the pit of Abel's abdomen, tension entering his neck as remorse filled his being.
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Without making eye contact, he offered the chain and ring to the original owner, a few of the links still broken, but fixable. Despite being a complete asshole to Benjamin, the man willingly brought him into his home and proceeded to assist him. The deplorable manners Abel displayed warranted no positive treatment, yet, the green-haired man treated him benevolently and even saved him. Those facts only worsened the feelings of guilt, the blond wishing he returned it sooner.
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"I'm sorry... I... I shouldn't have said those stupid things," Abel mumbled shamefully.
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The metallic fingers were delicately curled against the thin chain, a simple tug allowing the other individual to fetch their possession. Based on the treatment he received from Benjamin, Abel learned the ring meant more than meagre dollar signs. It was irreplaceable, something exchanged in accompany to vows of love and affection, and Abel held no right to saw it merely held monetary value.
My my, I just can't lie It's the speed and the sound that I'm dying to try
[break]
[attr="class","lovemad2"]
Pink-coloured Benjamin’s gorgeous cheeks after Abel inquired about marriage. The slightest widening of the golem’s eyes indicated a subtle surprised by the action, however, it was welcomed. The sweetness was discovered in the observation, something which made the blond’s chest fluttered, the inner mechanics accomplishing some definition of a heart flutter. Amnesia had placed a barrier between them, or at least, Abel believed there was. The golem changed over those years, the forgotten memories making it extremely difficult to revert to those familiar personality traits, yet, here was the enchanting, green-haired man.
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Unconsciously, Abel found himself smiling, something subtle, small, but filled with joy. There was something special about the spectacle which captivated the blond as he watched his former husband. Red continued to successfully conquer Abel's face after the initial breach when Benjamin said 'yes' to his question. Comfort was discovered in those simple words as pleasant thoughts of their previous life together, each a fabricated memory based on the photos. Unfortunately, a frown shattered the happy expression as dreaded thoughts of the changes he potentially underwent invaded.
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Frightened and lost in the recent developments, the golem gently squeezed the green-haired man's hand as he remembered... He was different... Theoretically, the Abel Benjamin loved died years ago, a victim of some incident which resulted in his death. Whether his mother murdered him and covered up for years, each comment a change in personality, damning him to possibly grow distance with the man he apparently loved... A defeated answer escaped his lips, the uncertainty of his mother's motive should she had committed a devastating crime and murdered her child.
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Slowly, Abel eased back against the couch, body still weary from the previous altercation. Any pain from the incident was a nonexistent feeling through his mechanized body, but tiredness lingered. Softly, the golem groaned, exhaustion claiming him mentally and physically. Everything revealed to him felt overwhelming, each moment passing quickly, hardly providing a second to think and reflect. With his head pressed against the back of the couch, Abel stared at the bland ceiling, thoughts swirling until his mind fixated on the movement.
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The green-haired man joined him on the couch, his whispered words causing Abel's posture to straighten. The notion of becoming reacquainted with his father was a wish since viewing the photographs. Those forgotten memories of his childhood... would they awaken being introduced to the rooms he ventured through as a child? Alas, a problem stood between them and the possibility of visiting his father. The golem's energy reserves were depleted after being drained by the electricity manipulator, and regaining energy was not easily accomplished...
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"Ben... I need to be charged to function again... if there is a device I can drain, that would solve the problem... but the device will be destroyed," Abel explained slowly with a grimace on his face. "Or... we have to hobble back to my house so I can charge, but it takes time."
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The circumstances were ill-favourable if Benjamin wished to leave shortly. Damages to his body were minor, some circuits being shorted, however, regaining energy out of nowhere was impossible for Abel. Dosages of energy could be provided by his soul, but the amount of time required was lengthy. When clothes were mentioned, the golem flinched as his yellow irises peered down at the photographs where he was shorter than Benjamin.
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"Um... I think I would be too tall for them," Abel murmured.
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The blond's eyes retreated from the pleasant photographs, a frown stuck on his lips. A pang of sorrow entered him as he wished he could fulfill Benjamin's suggestion, but those old shirts and pants would be small on his taller, bulkier frame. Compared to the young man featured in the photographs, he was the complete opposite. Worry occupied his thoughts, capitalizing on his concerns over the changes he underwent. The frightful concept of Benjamin's love diminishing as he learned about the monstrous transformation accomplished on him.
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Remoulded, reimagine and rebuilt into a relentless bounty hunter with a fiery temper and plenty of firepower. A contrast to the delicate, fragile and benevolent to those around him. Somebody who was shorter and probably sweeter than he could ever be. Reverting to the previous personality traits would be a difficult task... and... Abel enjoyed his life thus far. He reaped the benefits of bounty hunting, from the adrenaline rush he felt to the large payments he received for his efforts. The desire to change was hung on the fence, uncertainty causing a stressed groan to escape the golem's lips; he struggled to decide...
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Should he change, everything he became familiar with would vanish again...
My my, I just can't lie It's the speed and the sound that I'm dying to try
[break]
[attr="class","lovemad2"]
Witnessing a past of happiness displayed before him in the form of photographs made it difficult to avoid the overwhelming waves of sorrow. Forgotten, every memory reserved in these pictures erased from his mind. Alas, before Abel existed the keeper of these photographs, the individual involved in several, a holder of knowledge in terms of the golem's history. Marriage was the initial thought that entered the blond's head, thus it left in hastily stated words. Wide-eyed, the bounty hunter stared at Benjamin, waiting for an explanation.
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Words escaped the green-haired man's lips, sweetness added as he explained, mentioning completeness. Red subtly painted Abel's cheeks as he stared at the individual who claimed to be his husband. Each word was digested, the golem flattered by how Benjamin described being married to him. Hesitation manifested as Abel glanced away, contemplating the strange emotions stirring inside his chest. Something about creating a romantic relationship with Benjamin felt right, a mysterious sensation insisting happiness could be discovered.
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Gradually, the corners of Abel's lips twitched, transforming into a weak smile. The playfulness prompted a mild strengthening as the golem's gaze returned to Benjamin's face.
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"I... completed you?" Abel questioned quietly, eyes fixating on the photographs. "I... I think I was happy."
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The notion of remarrying Benjamin sounded enchanting despite their limited time spent together, alas, concerns had manifested. Based on the photographs, there was evidence of the blond being different years prior. Differences dictated the potential outcomes of a newly started relationship and Abel feared to destroy those pleasant memories Benjamin held. The green-haired man grew upset when he labelled his wedding ring a mere object better for pawning off for money... A comment of which Abel was still not proud of...
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Warmth existed between their connected hands when Abel managed to grab Benjamin's. His movements were limited, the bounty hunter weakened from the previous incident. Then the accusations arrived, coming similar to the hefty swing of an executioner's axe on a guilty man's neck. Each word Benjamin spoke forced Abel to stiffened, insides growing empty as fearful "fabrications" entered his mind. Motionless, Abel listened to the words, pondering if his mother could be capable of the callous action of murder. When Benjamin finished, the golem could merely stare.
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"But... why? Why would she?" Abel murmured.
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The deceptions spoke volumes about his mother, the lies recently discovered. She said there were no childhood photos, stated he died in an accident and insisted she raised him singlehandedly. A frown dropped onto Abel as he glanced away, somewhat frightened of the reality Benjamin painted in a simple accusation. The woman who mended him a murderer? The thought was upsetting for Abel.
My my, I just can't lie It's the speed and the sound that I'm dying to try
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[attr="class","lovemad2"]
Destroyed... the childhood and teenage stories his mother told him, the vague details of each so-called hilarious incident a mere fabrication... Each page was a frightful reminder of what became obvious, Abel’s mother lied. She never raised him single-handedly from when he was a mere infant, but the golem found difficulty in comprehending why. In every photo, he smiled, standing alongside his family, his father, his husband. Amidst the joyous faces, the one he grew most familiar in the aftermath of the action was non-existent.
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No photograph displayed Victoria McCroft, his mother who claimed she devoted her life to raising him. A single mother without anybody to assist her, somebody lonely and lacking in allies. Those shattered thoughts of a loving bond made Abel’s heartache the longer he turned through the photo album. Mother never mentioned his father except in brief comments, nastily claiming how unimportant the man, however, according to these photographs his dad had been a devoted father. Baby pictures, toddler photos and teenage images captured by a trusty camera and his capable hands or that of a professional's.
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Reassuring words escaped Benjamin's mouth as Abel's eyes stared at the following page. Pictures from a hastily put together wedding, two smiling, loving faces staring into one anothers with pure warmth and happiness. In these photographs, the blond was shorter than the green-haired man, face wearing a joyous expression while his body was dressed messy. Glasses framed his eyes, but anybody could notice the drunken expression and love. A frown traced Abel's lips, his hands trembling as he stared at the wonderful pictures.
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Slowly, the golem's robotic fingers softly traced his former self, fixated on the pictures of him and Benjamin together. Marriage... what was it like? Gradually, the blond bounty hunter's eyes lifted, eventually focusing on the green-haired man he became reacquainted with. An explanation was provided, but Abel hardly listened as he waited for Benjamin to cease speaking.
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"What was it like getting married?" He asked quickly after his presumed husband finished, hardly taking a breath of hesitation.
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A crucial question Abel required an answer to after viewing these beloved photographs. There was happiness inside these walls, nights of togetherness alongside some intimate moments. Soft fingers touched his hand where his ring was once located, the item which bound them together. Calming words left the man's lips, the blond's eyes widening when Benjamin offered a new one.
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"I..." Abel hesitated, glancing back at the photos before returning his eyes to Benjamin. "... maybe we should date for a bit first? ... I might not be the Abel you fell in love with..."
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Frowns conquered Abel's expression as he looked away from Benjamin, eyes returning to the photo album. There was a time where he was the smiling, short man in those pictures, however, he changed radically since then. Nowadays, he appeared monstrous, the robotic constructs of his golem body making a majority of people fear him greatly. The blond pondered his behaviour when he was a living creature, alas, his memory failed to discover anything related to his former self... Where did the memories go? Why did his mother feed him lies?
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Alas, the blond desired to learn about these players in his early years. The father alongside his green-haired husband who supported him throughout his childhood loved and cared about him. Fortunately, a library of information stood before Abel in the form of a green-haired man who stated to fill the husband roll years ago, alas, the golem hardly knew where to begin. This information was overwhelming, drowning him in uncertainty with little guidance. Slowly, Abel adjusted his hand, reaching if required to hold Benjamin's, his soul insisting it would bring forth the waves of serenity.
My my, I just can't lie It's the speed and the sound that I'm dying to try
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[attr="class","lovemad2"]
Photographs attached to the pages of the album, each displaying Abel alongside a younger version of Benjamin. There were... so many pictures of him when he was a child. The blond hair, similar, albeit younger, facial structure and unexpectantly, a pair of thick-rimmed glasses. The golem found himself continuing the shake the longer he gazed into those pictures. Portions of his life had vanished from his memories after the supposed accident which claimed them, yet, he rediscovered them in photographs apparently taken by his father and the man claiming to be his husband. Fearfully, Abel kept locking his yellow eyes with the images. Mother was lying and certainty was gaining power the longer he stared at the album provided by Benjamin. The whispered words resulted in Abel glancing up the green-haired man, a frightened expression on the golem's face as he stared at him. Vulnerable and scared, it was obvious on the blond's countenance as he looked at Benjamin, perhaps praying for some guidance or comfort. The situation was difficult on Abel, mostly because everything he knew abruptly became a lie. When he mentioned asking his mother about the situation, the blond nodded.
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Each word which left Benjamin's lips maintained Abel's attention, thus he stared. He listened as Abel claimed his father never mentioned the mother in his family. Immediately, the blond's thoughts went to his father, who was he? The golem wished to meet his father, these photographs making the desire stronger. Then Benjamin mentioned him leaving, horror appearing on Abel's face as he shook more.
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"I don't want to leave..." Abel mumbled as he turned another page. "I want to know what happened to me... Fuck... who am I? I don't remember any of this! My mom said there were no pictures from my childhood."
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A frown touched his face as Abel turned to the following page, discovering a page with some wedding photos attached to it. Paleness conquered the blond's face as he stared at the wedding pictures, the beautiful photos of him and Benjamin dressed in their suits. The man's yellow eyes drifted to his fingers, noticing the lack of a wedding band. Ashamed, Abel glanced away, feeling bad for losing the wedding band which bound them as husbands. Where was the ring? It was the only question in the blond's mind.
My my, I just can't lie It's the speed and the sound that I'm dying to try
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[attr="class","lovemad2"]
Comfortably settled into the plush cushions of the couch, Abel finally relaxed, body heavy because of the abrupt drain of energy. Electricity was crucial for the complete, capable operation of the bounty hunter's body, thus a severe absence of power and short-circuiting easily caused negative side-effects. Every limb of the golem's body felt entirely composed of led weighed down by high-calibre weights. Similar to humans, Abel's body ached from the torment of being damaged by his fellow bounty hunter. The whispered words surprised the blond golem, his peculiar eyes watching Benjamin after he spoke. The man with long, green locks was allegedly his husband, alas, it appeared those memories were purged from the bounty hunter. If the wonderful man was being truthful, Abel desired to learn about their life together. Any information about the supposed life he lived, one different from the stories his mother endlessly told him. A single glance over the green-haired beauty allowed Abel to notice the weapon jutting dangerously out of Benjamin's back pocket. Hesitantly, the golem reached for the weapon, arms moving slowly because of the weapon, inadvertently touching the green-haired man's butt in the process.
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Red breached Abel's cheeks as heat formed, the technology added to allow people to know the golem's moods functioning properly. Flustered by the comment, the blond allowed himself to fall against the couch, slumping against it while red conquered his regularly pale skin. Upon colliding with the couch, Abel crossed his arms, pouting as he glanced away because of his embarrassment.
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"I... I DIDN'T MEAN TO!" He exclaimed, flustered by the incident.
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He merely wanted to check what item was placed inside of Benjamin's back pocket, not touch his bottom! Certainly, there were no crimes against assuring an alleged lover was not hiding something dangerous in their back pocket! The golem only wished to protect Benjamin, those mysterious emotions chastising him for allowing himself to get injured. In his current state, defending the green-haired man from harm became impossible. Once again, Benjamin referred to him as Abel, prompting the golem to roll his eyes before glancing where his finger was pointing. When he managed to glimpse at the wall behind him, the blond's eyes widened at the pictures placed in their elegant frames. There were many pictures, mostly of high school days, however, nonetheless photos of himself as a child, some being posed with the green-haired man he found today. There was something radically different about his appearance, the short blond in the photos having glasses and a smaller physique, but the facial features were the same. Staring was the only thing Abel could do, astonishment flashing in his eyes, but... no memories surfacing in his mind at the moment.
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The sounds of movement prompted Abel's gaze to return to Benjamin, eyes watching as a picture book was handed to him. A worrisome expression appeared on the blond's face as he glanced between Benjamin and the photo album. Hesitantly, the golem turned the first page, eyes widening as he was greeted with similar pictures. A quiver entered the blond's hand as he flipped through the pages, horrified by the fact he remembered nothing. Was everything he knew a lie? Everything he lived knowing since he returned to earth? The blond kept flipping through pages, silent, uncertain and frightened about everything seemingly crashing around him. Why did his mother lie?! She always informed him the photos from his childhood were unfortunately destroyed... He died in an accident... then later remade by a grieving mother... and told she raised him... Shaky hands kept turning pages, finding more precious memories saved by the lens of a camera and printed onto these photos. Midway through, Abel paused, shaking as a hand pressed against his forehead, eyes gazing at the beautiful pictures.
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"I don't remember any of these... why don't I remember?" Abel whimpered.
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In seconds, the blond felt vulnerable and alone because of the absent memories. Being unable to remember a large portion of his life captured in photographs frightened Abel. An emptiness entered his gut as fear embraced, refusing to release him. Quivers remained as the thought of everything he knew merely being a lie rattled the golem. The stories his mother told always changed, constantly altering, and Abel was learning why, however, he was unable to understand why she would lie to him... He was her son, yet, she blindfolded him and made him blindly believe her changing stories...
My my, I just can't lie It's the speed and the sound that I'm dying to try
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[attr="class","lovemad2"]
Distractions were a perfect method to procrastinate thoroughly contemplating the plans which would eventually transpire between Abel and his mother. Once he confronted her, he was still uncertain of what exactly he would do or where he would go. Part of him assumed sanction would be discovered beneath Benjamin's roof, but otherwise, he remained uncertain and slightly frightened of the outcome. Therefore, avoiding those thoughts was a tantalizing notion. Although, his single question would come with unexpected consequences. The female stranger's rambling began with attempting to hype the flyer's bland message on housekeeping facts. The attitude displayed towards the flyer's contents was somewhat amusing, however, Abel failed to break into a smile as he listed to the young lady's words. A single glance at the flyer's headline informed the golem the dark-haired girl passing them around failed to read the contents herself. Alas, a single glance and she appeared to ramble away about the importance of happy housekeeping; something Abel was not particularly fond of. The ambitious golem always finished his chores in a hasty manner, sparring no time for dawdling.
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When the woman ceased speaking, the blond initially thought she was finished, until she adjusted the flyers, spun and cleared her throat. Suddenly, the stranger's answer to a simple question dragged on, words escaping her mouth in a lengthy lecture on the importance of her flyer alongside a strange tangent involving movie villains. After her first tangent, she successfully poked his chest. The golem leaned back slightly, the action was painless, but the invasion of personal space was hastily detested. The endless words escaping the woman's mouth immediately made Abel regret his decision of inquiring about housekeeping being an enjoyable chore. It seemed once the dark-haired woman began speaking, she was unable to cease the flow of words escaping her lips. Furthermore, she appeared perfectly fine after her long-winded answer, proving that she was bound to be an extremely talkative person or perhaps he was underestimating. With hands placed on her hips, the stranger made a declaration, she would not cease her barrage of advertising until he took a flyer. Annoyance crawled onto Abel's face as a pout graced his lips and his eyes narrowed; he completely regretted his decision.
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Without hesitation, the woman turned, occupying the seat next to him before nudging the flyers at him. The blond glanced in her direction, rolling his eyes before vacating the bench and proceeding down the path. Stubbornness was something Abel was known for, and he most certainly did not want a paper about housekeeping.
My my, I just can't lie It's the speed and the sound that I'm dying to try
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[attr="class","lovemad2"]
Thoughts were stuck on those dastardly contradictions his mother refused to explain, thus Abel found himself incapable of escaping those pesky frets. Without a proper recollection of his life prior to the supposed murder, the blond only familiarized himself with his mother. The melancholic atmosphere he radiated on this particularly warm summer day kept a majority of people away, few desiring to worry about some random sob story. The cynic supposed it was a natural response considering people merely cared about their own goals without much worry for the stranger sitting on a random park bench. He was not anybody special, merely a hot-headed golem with personal issues aplenty and nobody desired that baggage. Noises were ignored in favour of thinking about his current circumstances, especially since he knew now, Ben had to be telling the truth. Everything from their interaction revealed the inconsistencies, the photographs hammering the nails into the coffin of lies. The golem remained hunched over in thought, metallic arms resting just above his knees while his black and yellow eyes stared at the dull sidewalks.
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He watched as ants idly crawled over the surface, carefree as they went about another day of survival; was it bad he was envying ants? Suddenly, a pair of shoes entered his viewed, followed by a feminine voice which prompted Abel to straighten his posture as surprise crossed his face. Upon lifting his gaze, he noticed a black-haired girl who appeared to be a teenager, however, given the number of immortal species it was always difficult to determine somebody's true age. She held papers, speaking in an attempt to get rid of them. One of the flyers was held up, the golem lifting a brow in confusion, the stranger naturally expecting him to take one of her flyers. The paper's headline involved housekeeping or something similar as Abel merely skimmed over the words. Did he really need a flyer about housekeeping? Not currently considering there was a more pressing issue to be handled in the current moment. Did he desire a distraction from those thoughts? Something to temporarily alleviate stress and clear his mind? Most definitely.
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"Housekeeping is supposed to be fun?" Abel asked with a raised brow.
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While the mysterious girl could be merely referring to the flyer with her compliments, Abel nonetheless inquired about it for the purposes of gaining a few moments to fixate his thoughts elsewhere. Admittedly, he never associated housekeeping with fun considering his mother shoved the more laborious work onto his plate. The species he was built to become after an untimely death was better suited for those tasks. Meanwhile, his mother accomplished the simpler tasks of household cleaning. Despite his comment, Abel made no motions to take the flyer from the woman. He was not absorbed in the idea of learning about housekeeping. If anything, he merely hoped to use the dark-haired stranger for a few moments of distraction, even if she was more keen on hastily handing over a flyer before moving onto the next individual walking by on this muggy day.
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[attr="class","lovemad1"]
509 WORDS
[attr="class","lovemad1"]@june
Welcome to the thread~! Also, finally got my slow butt to here!
My my, I just can't lie It's the speed and the sound that I'm dying to try
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[attr="class","lovemad2"]
Warmth embraced the world, muggy and intense, making regular humans feel incredibly drained. Clouds were practically nonexistent, allowing the heat to thoroughly warm the world. The humid weather would be unpleasant for a majority of people, however, there were some summer-loving souls bravely wandering the streets alongside those with temperature regulating equipment or abilities. There was hardly a breeze evident in the air, enforcing the reign of warmth on this summer afternoon. Hands stored in the depths of his jeans pockets, Abel walked through the city, automatically assuming a majority of citizens were using the incredible weather to visit Starlight Beach. He wore a sleeveless, grey, hooded tank top, a white cord stretching from the pocket and leading to a pair of earbuds; rock music is played in his ears. Alas, his thoughts failed to linger on the developments occurring in his life. Recently, the golem gained the nerve to interrogate his controlling mother about his previous life, however, she dismissively waved and stated she told him everything he needed to know. Anger bubbled merely pondering the exchange, the blond’s eyes narrowing as everything he learned since returning appeared to be crumbling after meeting Benjamin.
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Oddly, the man known as Benjamin had recognized him, stating they were married followed by other contradictions to the stories his mother told. Everything inside of Abel desired to believe the man claiming marriage, particularly something inside the mighty golem which tugged him towards the notion; unfortunately, he failed to place a name to these emotions. The concerning contradictions rattled the bounty hunter’s world as they were proven to potentially be truthful as days passed. An entire album of pictures from their relationship was in Benjamin’s possession while his mother held hardly a shred of evidence proving her stories. The golem remembered inquiring about photographs from his youth shortly after being able to have a meeting with his mother, but she, in an offhandedly casual manner, stated the album was lost. Whenever he pressed about how they were lost, his mother would snap at him, informing him she was upset about being unable to find them as well.
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Unfortunately, Abel’s trust of his mother was quickly deteriorating the longer she refused to speak in depth about his previous life. Yet, the desire to trust his mother was harboured deep inside; she became the first individual he knew upon returning to the living world. She gave birth to him, later breathing life into his golem body and snatching him from Thanatos’ cold hands, however, even his death was brought into contradiction. The urge to angrily groan was resisted, Abel maintaining silence as he proceeded down the sidewalks, remembering Benjamin’s bold allegation. There was an accusation that his mother murdered him in cold blood, later manipulating his memories for her own selfish agenda. A frown became evident on the blond’s face as he continued, an annoyed sigh escaping his lips. Admittedly, the bounty hunter felt lost after those recent allegations, his former closeness to his mother resulting in him wishing she was truthful, but based on photographic evidence, Benjamin has his best interests in mind.
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There was a desire to pull up the hood of his grey sleeveless tank top and disappear, although, that would fail to solve any problems. A soft sigh escaped his lips, Abel diverting off the main sidewalk in favour of entering Crow Feather Park. The steady flow of music in his ears remained, blocking out the world and only allowing the blond to focus on his ill-favourable situation. Strategically placed trees manifested patches of cool shade, a majority of park goers lounging beneath trees. The playgrounds were filled with children, adults carefully watching for negative signs manifested from the humidity. They were always anxious despite the existence of temperature regulating charms, particularly because charms dissipated in time. Briefly, Abel watched the children before sighing and continuing his walk. Despite being unable to remember his childhood, he desired those innocent days where there were no worries about these dramas.
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Slowly, the golem proceeded further into the park, discovering a quiet corner a little past the large fountain. He eased onto the bench, robotic hands carefully grasping the earbuds and pulling them out. The blond was released from the music, leaning back against the backrest of the bench. A deep breath was sucked into him before slowly exhaling. Breathing was unnecessary, but there was something calming about taking these moments to merely breathe. The phone was carefully fetched the phone from his pocket, Abel pausing the music before wrapping the headphones around it. A frown remained on his face, the young man finding it life difficult; he desired a distraction. Carefully, the golem's unique eyes glanced around, praying he could discover something to take his mind off these perplexing contradictions; why did his mother decide to lie?
My my, I just can't lie It's the speed and the sound that I'm dying to try
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[attr="class","lovemad2"]
There was something motionless and slow about winter which became problematic for those constantly forced to search jobs for their survival. While Abel found most daily expenses to be removed considering the nature of his "diet", the greedy golem constantly derived joy from copious amounts of money he earned working for the Hollow Order. Unfortunately, winter appeared to enjoy freezing the criminal activity as missions became more sparse than usual despite the festivities oftentimes being ample time for a crime. Profits would be booming from recent holiday purchases alongside a variety of gifts littering expensive homes, yet, there were hardly eye-catching bounties for Abel to gleefully participate in. Fortunately, an extensive search through the Hollow Order Missions app allowed for the blond to discover an interesting prize. A renown thief and slippery individual needed to be captured for a decent sum of money, resulting in a grin touching the golem's lips. Hastily, he glanced over the details written in the job posting, a majority of people mentioning how the thief prayed on the downtown area of Lorsette.
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Considering the close proximity of the business district, thus allowing Abel a vague idea of vicinity he would be required to work within. Hastily, the golem got prepared to head out, dressing in a simple pair of navy sweats and a white sleeveless top with a hood. Afterwards, he headed out into the cold embrace of winter, his mechanical body being unaffected by the chilling temperature; he was designed to handle extremes. Gradually, he began weaving the sidewalks, taking a pleasant walk through the neighbourhood until finally arriving in the downtown area. Once entering the downtown area of Lorsette, Abel's eyes began scrutinizing the area in search of the thief. He proceeded to walk around, although, the lack of people in the area was concerning to the bounty hunter. People were likely scarce because of cold temperatures, which suggested the possibility of the thief not being around. The blond's eyes narrowed as he analyzed every person he passed, even going the length to listen in on the conversations he passed.
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Finally, Abel noticed a black mop on a hunched over figure; his target was in the vicinity. Recklessly, the bounty hunter rushed forward, earning the criminal's attention last minute. Suddenly, the man dodged with frightening high reflexes, resulting in the golem's eyes narrowing when he realized the mission would be difficult. Once the thief realized the attention behind the rush, he began running down the streets and without hesitation, Abel followed, keeping excellent pace because of his enhanced speed.
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"COME BACK HERE!" He shouted after the thief.
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As Abel chased the thief, following the man's path with frightening ease. As time went on, his quick target began getting desperate and throwing civilians in his path, but the golem proved to have stunning reflexes. The thrill of the hunt meant everything to the bounty hunter as his circuits warm and excitement grew; he loved the adrenaline rush which arrived with attempting to capture targets. His target was panicking, trying his best to avoid the mechanical golem following his moves and tracking him down. There were a few people who watched and gasped in surprise at the high-speed chase down the sidewalks and through the streets, but gradually people began to ware few. As the spaces became more open, Abel lifted his arm, setting the function to electric for a low-powered shot in hopes of tasing his unsuspecting victim. Slowly, he aimed the palm of his hand towards the man before firing, his target failing to avoid the shot as he stumbled to the ground, twitching from the electrical current.
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A satisfied grin graced Abel's lips as he thought about the money placed on the thief's head, the golem stomping over towards his collapsed victim, paying little mind to the brown-haired man with the bike he passed. There were few who meddled with his work, thus the bounty hunter decided to proceed as followed; he needed to acquire the money after all. While each bounty merely grew his bank account instead of pay for items he required, Abel's greed fed the requirement. Slowly, his bounty gained some definition of consciousness as he squirmed, attempting to force his muscles to work.
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"It's hopeless," Abel mumbled. "Don't struggle, it's pathetic."
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From what Abel could tell, he already accomplished his objective and the criminal could not escape before he contacted the Hallow Order and provided another round of tasing to avoid escape, although, he was surprised by the man's hasty recovery; perhaps another power lurked yet.
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