Time passes much more quickly in Rohandor and many long and happy years have gone by since the characters retired to enjoy their respective 'happily ever afters,' their greatest foes were imprisoned in the Forever Stone, bound in an eternal sleep. Until Now.
Happily Ever Afters takes place in Rohandor, a mystical realm on another plane of existence from our own. Here our favorite Disney heroes and villains live in a world all their own; Alive, but far from well. Heroes and heroines fight to keep peace while newly freed villains seek their revenge. Come join us in an epic adventure as the characters you love clash in a struggle that will determine the fate of Rohandor!
HEA is an AU canon-only animated crossover Disney Play-By-Post Role Play with minimal word count.
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4/24/21: We've been on hiatus for a number of years now. I don't know that I'm entirely ready to return BUT I have been cleaning up the site and working to update everything since a number of movies have released. There is still A LOT of work to do but if you see this update and were an active member of the site prior to the hiatus, please send the Yen Sid account a DM to let me know you're still interested in playing and if you wish to retain your current roster. I hope you've all been doing well and staying safe!
Happily Ever Afters is a play-by-post forum role playing game based on the movies and television series of Disney and Pixar. It was created for recreational and entertainment purposes only and not intended to step on any toes, offend, or infringe. We did not create nor do we own the content from the Disney and Pixar stories and movies. None of the threads and writing on this forum is associated or affiliated with Disney/Pixar in any way. We do not make any money off of this site or its content. The icons used in the Forum Information & Statistics and those like it throughout the board as well as the BBC buttons and smileys were taken from a layout called Absolute Madness made by PookyTart from Userbar Depot. All of the other graphics used on this board were found, created, or otherwise edited by Yen Sid or Te Fiti. Please don't steal or use any graphic from this board without explicit permission. All storylines and plots used in the threads/topics were created by the staff and members of HEA and should not be copied or used on another board without permission.
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Post by Basil of Baker Street on Aug 6, 2017 17:00:02 GMT -5
Participating Characters:Basil of Baker StreetGadget Hackwrench Forum Location:happilyeverafters.proboards.com/board/134/locations Time of Day: Mid afternoon Weather: Clear and Sunny Thread Location: The newly built Movie Maestro Goldmouse studios behind a London Theatre Premise: Hollywood visionary Oscar Goldmouse seeks leads for his latest movie, with trouble afoot for our heroes. Bring popcorn
All of mousedom's thespians, experienced and amateur alike, were raving about a new visitor to the isles. From what was once the Americas, Hollywood California to be precise, came the multi-award winning director Oscar Goldmouse. Originally he lived in the twentieth century rodent and small animal civilisation and was looking to continue his work in the new world, now rumour had it he was preparing his ultimate masterpiece and seeking out new talent to bring it to life. His studio was set up and word was sent out seeking anyone who thought they could make it big in pictures, but promising that only the few best would.
Basil of Baker Street, world's greatest detective, wasn't normally one for film. Though his projector back home saw a lot of use in his crime solving experiments he was rather confused with the concept of watching multiple hours of projected moving pictures in a dark and crowded room when you could get a much better experience at home with a good book. However he had received a handwritten note under his door the previous night.
'To the detective Basil, your skills are required at Movie Maestro Oscar Goldmouse (MMGM) studio. Much danger, much peril.'
This had led to the detective marching right down the next morning to investigate, passing through a gate with a strange logo of Oscar Gold himself roaring while surrounded by a ring of film reels. Basil's progress was halted by a stern faced toad receptionist who had repeatedly cut him off and pointed him to a waiting area full of auditionees. He seated himself on one of the couches and watched the various jugglers, singers, musicians actors and mimes (to name but a few of the collection) practise their talents last minute.
One by one they were called in behind a double door, a few seconds of them pitching their skill could be heard before a crazed bellowing followed and they ran from the studio in fear or despair.
A trio of young lady mice in kimonos shuffled in, got as far as 'pert as a school girl' before they were cut off and sprinted out in tears. With a heavy slam Oscar Gold himself came out into the hall. A heavyset grey mouse in a puffy white shirt, tan jodhpurs, black beret and sunglasses waving a megaphone as he started chasing out more of the fame seekers.
"Out out out! I'm not making a slapstick chuckle fest here! I need reality, not make believe! If you call yourself and ACT-or and not a BE-or then get out at once before I strangle you with your own tails!"
The majority of the hopefuls couldn't get out fast enough, leaving a much smaller group behind. Basil stood up to introduce himself before a hand in front of his face cut him off.
"Please good sir! Don't bother me before I've drown out the torments of the past few hours with a foamy latte. Anton! My inspirational ambrosia is needed!"
He was back behind the double doors once more followed by a highly strung assistant holding the requested hot drink while adding something from a small flask into it. Must be that inspirational ambrosia. As Basil sat down once more, trying not to pay attention to the mime that had remained behind and started mimicking the detectives every movement, he caught a familiar face nearby.
"Miss Hackwrench? Is that you?"
ooc: Hope this is okay to work with. Thought I should give you a chance to give your own reason to have Gadget there, work two cases! Tell me if things need edited.
Post by Gadget Hackwrench on Aug 6, 2017 17:37:03 GMT -5
It hadn’t been easy for Gadget to get used to the wide variety of Mouse Cultures among the many lands of Rohandor. The most obvious difference between them seemed to be their lifestyle. Some mice had mouse-sized objects and some mice altered found human-made objects to fit their needs. Gadget had always lived the later lifestyle and thrived in it, but she could not deny the obvious benefits of the former.
Gadget had returned to the Ranger Headquarters and had been living there by herself for some weeks when a letter arrived about a case at a film studio. It was brief and vague and promised danger and peril. How could she pass that up?
And so Gadget found herself in one of those other mouse worlds now.
She’d arrived the day before and quickly realized she stood out like a sore thumb in her purple jumper and mechanic goggles. The people here were dressed much more fashionably. In fact, when asked to see Mr Goldmouse, his assistant looked down his nose at her, and told her that Mr Goldmouse had no time to sign autographs that day, or any day, and to get lost.
Gadget realized she was never going to be taken seriously unless she looked the part. So, the next day she had come back looking completely different. She wore mascara and eyeshadow, her blond hair was styled in curls that fell across one side of her face, and she was dressed in a very stylish polka-dot dress. It was a look that was meant to open doors and Gadget planned on exploiting it.
Most animals outside her own world didnt know anything about the Rescue Rangers and so Gadget had been very confident that no one would recognize her. That is, until Basil of Baker Street walked in. Gadget watched as he seated himself on a sofa and watched, as she had, the madness that was MMGM Studio.
When Oscar Goldmouse himself tore into the room like a spitting cat, Gadget stood up with the rest of the beleaguered actors. Instead of moving to the door, however, she sat down next to Basil, pulled a compact out of her purse, and checked her makeup.
Miss Hackwrench? Is that you?
Gadget gave him a slow smile and a little wink. “I think you have me confused with someone else, Sugar.” She offered her hand. “Scarlet Monrose. And you are?”
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Post by Basil of Baker Street on Aug 10, 2017 17:59:52 GMT -5
Basil caught on quick, despite the initial shock of seeing a familiar face unexpectedly. He had first met Gadget Hackwrench at her workshop overseas, when he was seeking to recruit the Rescue Rangers as part of an international alliance of small animal detectives deputised by the Queen. Despite a rocky start involving a series of near lethal traps intended to repel door to door salesmen and a frankly terrifying trip on one of her self constructed flying machines Gadget had proven her skills as an inventor and a freelance crimefighter. Perhaps she was here undercover as part of her own case? Or following a similar lead as Basils?
"Ah, my mistake." He took the offered hand, bowed politely and kissed the back of it as a respectful greeting, the mime still behind him mimicked the act with a little more camp flair. "Basil of Baker Street. Detective and agent of the Crown at your service."
"Now that is what I need!" Oscar burst into the hallway again followed by his assistant, currently balancing a tower of papers. "That old school seventeen hundreds chivalry. You're hired."
He turned to Gadget, or rather Scarlet and framed his hands to observe her from several angles.
"and the perfect leading lady. We start filming right now!"
"Now hold on Sir." The detective tried to cut in when the director stopped for breath, forgoing for now the 1700's comparison. "I'm afraid you have me confused with the crowd you just chased out. I'm a detective and I came here to investigate potential danger in this studio."
"Of course! Danger and daring-do!" Goldmouse grabbed a pair of paper stacks from his assistant, revealing them to be very thick scripts, then handed one each to Gadget and Basil. "It's all right here in print. and as a real life hero you'll bring realism that will get you a star on the walk in no time."
Basil leafed through his own copy, noting that sections were highlighted to indicate which role he was being conscripted into. Chase Cheddar, dashing rogue slash secret agent slash musketeer slash space traveller slash monster slayer slash.....
"What kind of moving picture is this exactly? You seem to have a wide selection of genres in these pages."
"Rohandor is a melting pot of cultures past, present and future Basil-bubbaleh. This motion picture extravaganza has to appeal to all of them. My name will live forever when they see it. They'll name awards after me, a gold statue in my image." Oscar paused to gaze upwards in awe at his own dreams. "and they'll call it the Goldmouse."
"All the same Mister Goldmouse. I can't accept." Basil noticed Anton seizing up on hearing his employer told 'no' in any form. "Now is there or is there not a series need of my skills?"
"Sabotage detective." Goldmouse leaned in while making a stage whisper. "Myself, and a few investors, have a lot of money tied up in this venture and those hacks who consider themselves my rivals would love to see me fail. Please, just a few scenes until you can determine things are safe and I'll compensate you well."
The mouse detective ground his teeth slightly and twitched his whiskers. Perhaps he could recommend a local security firm or off duty police to help protect the studio, but as he opened his mouth to reply...
"Excellent! You've saved my vision detective!" Oscar turned away before Basil could interject, restarting his pitch with Gadget. "and now for my Starlet!"
ooc: Maybe I should pause and let you get your side in. Feel free to NPC Oscar. Ham it up and have fun with your contract negotiations.
Post by Gadget Hackwrench on Aug 12, 2017 21:37:24 GMT -5
Gadget saw understanding flash in Basil’s eyes before he quickly took her hand and and introduced himself. The taller mouse bent to kiss her hand and Gadget couldn’t help the rosy blush that colored her cheeks. She laughed and turned her face away, attempting to hide it with the fall of her curly hair.
This was, apparently, exactly what the director was looking for. He shouted as much after sweeping back into the room, followed by his harried assistant. Basil attempted to explain that he wasn’t there for an audition and Gadget perked her ears up, listening to the two of them. So, Basil was there to investigate the studio as well. Had he received a similar tip? She needed to get him alone and figure out what was going on. Who could be behind this?
Gadget was handed a script and she thumbed through it carefully, glancing through the words. She could see that the scope of the project was huge. Gadget would be playing ‘Brie Romano,’ and like Basil Gadget realized that the plot seemed to be a genre-sweeping mess. There was literally something for everyone. Some of the stunts looked very intense. She wondered if that was the danger she was meant to investigate.
Basil again attempted to refuse to play the part and Gadget bit her lip. She tried to catch Basil’s eye, to attempt to communicate non-verbally that he should play along, but with Goldmouse right in front of them her hands were tied. Didn’t he see that this was the perfect way for them both to get behind the scenes and really see what was going on in the studio?
Goldmouse stepped all over Basil’s objections and Gadget stopped herself from breathing a relieved sigh. Whatever was going on here, Basil would be a huge help in solving the case. He was clearly very annoyed, but otherwise didn’t continue to argue more.
Then Goldmouse turned his very enthusiastic attention to her. Gadget met him with a smile and held the script to her chest with one arm while she held out her free hand to the director. “Scarlet Monrose.”
“Yes, wonderful, wonderful. You, my dear, will be my leading lady. Strong and beautiful and daring but still just enough vulnerability that the audience connects with her quest! I promise you she’s the modern heroine Rohandor needs!”
It didnt really matter to Gadget who she was playing or what the movie was for. In fact, Gadget doubted very much the film would be finished at all, should she and Basil uncover a mystery. That said, she had to play along, so she nodded her agreement while the director spoke.
“She sounds completely revolutionary, Mr. Goldmouse. I would be honored to play her. But…” Here Gadget paused, her ears wilting just a bit. “… if Detective Basil is concerned about danger here…” Gadget gave a heavy pause, pretending to think through taking the ‘role of a lifetime’ despite how dangerous it might be. “But I suppose… as long as Basil is cast, I would have nothing to worry about?” Gadget looked to Basil expectantly, hoping he understood what she was trying to say. She hoped he would accept and work with her on this case.
Mr. Goldmouse waved away Gadget’s concerns. “Nonsense, everything is absolutely safe. You have my word. But, I’m sure Basil will keep an eye on you, eh Bazzy?” Goldmouse wagged his eyebrows at Basil before snapping his fingers at his assistant. “Get them into costuming. We’ve lost enough time as it is!”
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Post by Basil of Baker Street on Aug 14, 2017 16:21:53 GMT -5
With Oscar turning his attention to Gadget, Basil could finally get a chance to listen to her subtle hints and plan things a little more clearly. She was right, if there was something serious afoot then the lead roles would give them both the opportunity to access all areas and investigate. That and it wouldn't be right to leave a fellow detective in need.
"I suppose I could at least try a few scenes.."
Goldmouse took the reluctant agreement as a go ahead for filming to begin. He rushed off suddenly bellowing down his megaphone at the crews on the other side of the building, leaving Anton to direct the leading lady and leading man to costuming. They were eventually ushered into a large room reserved for the main cast, lavishly decorated and filled with clothing rails and a set of dressing rooms at the back.
"If you could head over to studio 4 when you're ready. Mister Goldmouse wants to shoot the treasure chamber scene first."
As Anton backed out to return to the aid of his boss Basil flicked through the script some more, comparing it with the costumes provided and trying to find the right items.
"Well. Goldmouse is clearly a man who has never understood a negative response. It will be quite some task trying to keep up with him if there is an attempt to cause harm to his work. Unfortunately the concept of the moving picture is new to me so I'll have to defer to you on more than just the high technology side of things."
It wasn't going to be like a stage play, that much was certain. Apparently movies had much larger production values, higher quality props and a lot more room to work with. The detective finally retrieved the full costume assigned to his character, narrowing his eyes as it turned out to be almost identical to his own clothing. A tweed longcoat and deerstalker hat, only in a silver colouring with blue highlights to fit in with the science fiction elements in the story. A quick dip into the changing booth and he stepped out feeling quite ridiculous as he looked over the costume in a full length mirror. Most unusual was the belt holster with a strange trinket inside that resembled a flashlight. The London mouse inspected the item.
"If there is sabotage going on in this studio I hope they start with any film reels that show me in this bizarre tailoring. I suppose this is one of those new handheld torches?" He flicked a switch on the side, flinching as a illuminated plastic tube with a green glow extended from the handle of the device. Giving it a few swishes produced a 'vwooom-vwooom' sound leaving the detective baffled. "..........I'm at a loss as to the purpose or practicality of this contraption."
Post by Gadget Hackwrench on Aug 15, 2017 19:50:15 GMT -5
Somewhat grudgingly, Basil agreed to play the part Goldmouse had for him. Gadget gave him a knowing smile and followed Anton into the dressing rooms. While Basil flipped through the script, Gadget looked at the number of costumes with some dismay. With all these scenes and costume changes, how would they ever have any time to investigate?
Gadget turned back to Basil as he asked, in his own way, for her help. “Hmm… I think the main thing to know is he might make us film the same scene over and over until its just like he likes it. Then they can edit together the best parts when we’re done.” With a play, you only had one shot to get it right. With film, if you messed up, you could just try again.
Gadget wasn’t really too concerned about the integrity of the movie at this point— she was eager to ask Basil about what had brought him to the studio. Before she could, however, another assistant brought them their costumes and both of them were pushed into dressing rooms. Gadget couldn’t believe how quickly she was transformed into the character Goldmouse had dreamed up. When she came out of the dressing room, she was wearing a flowing white dress and her hair had been twisted up into two huge buns that completely hid her ears.
Gadget looked Basil over. “Well, you do look the hero.” She grinned, watching him swing the ‘torch’ around. Then she laughed, covering her mouth with her hand. “Not a chance. I’m not leaving here without a copy.”
A radio crackled and one of the costume designers pressed the button, asking for a repeat message. “GET THE TALENT TO STUDIO 4!” came blaring over the radio and Gadget winced. She grabbed Basil’s free hand and pulled him toward the door. “C’mon, this way.”
While they crossed the street to another huge building, she looked up to him. “So, any idea what we’re looking for around here? My letter was… pretty vague.”
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Post by Basil of Baker Street on Aug 17, 2017 18:13:07 GMT -5
Basil let his ears drop at the idea that, even if the movie wasn't finished, there would be some kind of record of any humiliations he had to endure while he was here. Despite his mood he tried to maintain a dignified pace as he walked with Gadget towards the first shooting area. If he truly had to act then he'd at least give it his all in the hope of avoiding too many repeats of the same scene. He thumbed through the script on the way to brush up on what to expect. If he knew what was supposed to be going on then he'd have a better chance of noticing what wasn't supposed to be going on.
"I can't help but feel that you're enjoying how out of my comfort zone I am. I'll be sure to remember that in act two scene five when the evil baron has you tied to the railroad tracks as part of his scheme to steal your inheritance." Good lord this plot was all over the place. Basil was joking about ignoring any peril of course, though he was tempted to slip out for a cup of tea when that scene was set up. "You look very regal by the way. Do you have all the information on your character?"
The subject of the letter came up. So Miss Hackwrench had received the same kind of summons. That was disconcerting. Whoever sent the notes seemed to want two noted detectives at the studio for some reason. He'd made one observation that might help of course. "The promise of danger and peril? Not very informative was it? All I know so far is that Goldmouse isn't the one who wrote it. I've compared the handwriting to the notes that he's put in the margins of the script. See how he swipes the pen at the end of every statement with some dramatic flair? The person who wrote the notes doesn't have the same mannerism. Plus Oscar is right handed while the notes were written with an awkward grip on the pen similar to that used by left handed people who are overly concerned with smudging the writing with their own hand. It's little to go on for now but keep an eye out for anyone left handed who is either a perfectionist or afraid of making a mess."
Like he said, little to go on but something to look out for. They had made it to the studio finally. The interior was set up to look like a cave interior with a small Ziggurat in the middle, a terraced structure similar to a pyramid that got smaller as it went up. At the top of the ziggurat was an altar with a large red 'jewel' on top (most likely a marble or the like used as a prop). A looming statue of an octopus arched over the jewel menacingly and a group of extras were playing cards nearby dressed in matching jumpsuits and goggled helmets. Apparently these were the henchmen of a villain in the story that were part of this scene. Other assorted crew were setting up cameras, lights and other equipment while Goldmouse rushed out of nowhere to greet his stars.
"Scarlet. Basil. Glad to see the costumes suit.. This is one of the big action sequences I wanted to film first, help you two build a rapport you can use in the quiet scenes." He waved his arms frantically trying to illustrate what he was thinking. "Chase and the Princess are trying to foil the Shadow Sorcerer's plans to build his doomsday device by preventing his troops from gathering a key component. The Red Eye of Atlantis! You'll start behind that rock. The henchmen have already beaten you to the temple but you two will ambush them, but disturbing the sacred jewel will anger the great guardian and..."
"Just one moment Mister Goldmouse. Shouldn't we rehearse or at least plan the fight beforehand?"
"Don't worry about that." Oscar indicated the extras who waved back before they took their places. "These extras know all about fight scenes. When I found them they were in a Shakespeare in the park production of Julius Ceasar. They know how to gang up and stab a guy let me tell you. Besides, you're a detective, you know all about fighting. Just mime some punches, swing your laser sword and they'll handle the rest." Oscar raised his megaphone and turned away just in time to not deafen Basil with his announcement. "Places! We're Rolling!"
The detective could tell that there was no further chance for questions at this time. He took his place behind the foam rock and took a few stretches to loosen up for what was apparently a heavy action scene.
"So what was that about a sword?"
ooc: Feel free to do as much of the scene as you like. If you want we can PM each other to add hammy dialogue to put in each others posts for shooting scene parts.
Post by Gadget Hackwrench on Aug 17, 2017 20:55:14 GMT -5
Gadget could see that Basil was still not at all pleased with how things were playing out. While in his element Basil was exceedingly confident in himself. Now he was, as he said, out of his comfort zone. He was trying to put on a good face, probably for her sake, but Gadget could see he just shy of being miserable. It made her feel a little bad for laughing at him.
She had to walk a little faster to keep up with his longer strides and then pass him a little to look up at him. Gadget gave him a warm smile. “I’m sorry. Its just… well, this is the first case I’ve been on in a very long time. Its exciting!” The Rescue Rangers had disbanded. Basil himself had convinced her to come back, but the other Rangers were still in the wind. Yes, they had been warned of danger, but Gadget was remembering what it was like to solve a mystery with friends.
Basil teased her about letting her sweat it out on the railroad tracks for a bit in scene five. Gadget grinned. If he was joking around with her, he couldn’t be mad at her. Then he complimented her on her dress. She looked down at it, another blush coloring her cheeks. “The script said ‘space princess.’ I think I rule an entire planet. So... that Baron has his work cut out for him.”
The detective began to explain his theories on the case thus far and Gadget listened closely. Before she could comment, however, the two of them entered the studio. Gadget took in the scene with wide eyes. “Golly.” It was much more grand and elaborate than she’d pictured.
Goldmouse greeted them in a rush before quickly setting up the scene. Gadget glanced doubtfully at the huge script in her hands. Atlantis? She’d completely missed that part. While she was thumbing through the pages, a prop master rushed up to her, took the script, and shoved a ridiculous looking gun into her hands. Upon closer inspection Gadget realized it was a water pistol that had been painted and stuffed with little lights to make it glow.
Goldmouse was shouting for everyone to take their places and Gadget ran with basil to crouch down behind the fake rock. Peeking around the side, she took a quick look at where the extras had gone before ducking back with Basil.
So what was that about a sword?
Gadget flashed him a grin. “Be on the look out for a left-handed swordsman?”
Before she could say anything else one of the extra’s gave a shout. “That’s it!” They were pointing theatrically at the gem. “It’s here! Over here!”
Gadget picked up a small stone, blew a wisp of hair out of her eyes, and chucked it at one of the extras. It bounced off his helmet and spun it around. From his director’s chair by one of the many cameras, Goldmouse was giving direction. “Yes— yes! Improvisation! Zoom in!”
Gadget put her hand over Basil’s. “Listen, forget the script. What would Basil of Baker Street do to stop a few criminals from getting to that gem?” She rose up on her toes, pressed a brief kiss to his cheek, and nudged him toward the gang of ‘thugs’ that were running their way. Then she said in a louder voice for the cameras, “Chase! I hope you know what you're doing!!"
((Basil of Baker Street If you have specific dialogue in mind we can PM. Otherwise I'm cool with just making it up lol))
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Post by Basil of Baker Street on Aug 21, 2017 18:10:47 GMT -5
Basil blushed beet red when Gadget gave him a kiss for encouragement, along with some words of advice. He stepped out at her urging to square up to the actors playing the henchmen. She was right of course, he had to stick to his own strengths for the role rather than focus on the parts of the job that were irritating him. As the 'henchmen' circled him he drew the 'laser sword' prop and took a bartitsu combat stance, a fighting style combining Japanese wrestling and short staff techniques (usually a cane stick or umbrella). As each of the other mice rushed him the detective redirected them with quick throws and pushes, turning their momentum and weight against them. True to Goldmouse's words the extras were adept at rolling with the punches, toppling and falling without injury to themselves whilst making it look like a real fight.
“Chase! I hope you know what you're doing!!"
"Keep calm Princess, and watch out for any more shadow troopers. Your planet and a whole galaxy depends on it."
He steadily climbed the ziggurat towards the prop gem, pausing every so often to judo toss or stage punch another villain. Eventually he reached the altar and grabbed the red marble, according to the script this would complete the first stage of the scene. The henchmen picked themselves up and scrambled off while Oscar gave more instruction.
"Add some tremors in post, and cue the guardian."
The octopus statue above Basil suddenly groaned, a booming voice came from a build in speaker.
"WHO DARES STEAL THE RED EYE OF ATLANTIS?! YOU SHALL BE CRUSHED FOR YOUR INSOLENCE!"
The tentacles on the statue began to close in, smashing down in an alternating pattern as Basil rushed back down the stairway. Before he made it to safety he felt a heavy mass slam down on his tail causing him to yelp out in pain before tripping to the floor. The statue trap penned him in at this point. His mind was in overdrive working out the angles and dimensions, then with certainty in his calculations he dived into what seemed to be the safest spot. The tentacles closed in fully over the ziggurat, slamming together with a solid thud. The film crew stood gaping for a minute, still rolling.
Then a noise of exertion came from under the octopus. Basil squeezed himself out from a small gap, slightly bruised but still alive and carrying the prop gem over to present to Gadget.
"It takes more than a thousand year old sculpture to get the better of Chase Cheddar." He gasped out, trying to balance shortness of breath with the expected boisterousness the audience expected of a pulp hero. "and with this gem we're one step closer to getting your throne back."
Oscar waited for his leading lady to add her lines, then signalled the case and crew. "and CUT! Amazing! Gripping! The chemistry! The excitement! The public will love it!"
The detective braced himself on a prop rock, checking his tail for damage and waiting for the director to stop for breath. "Was the octopus trap supposed to come down so fast? It was a little close."
"Sorry about that." A crewman rushed up with a remote control device for the octopus. "I'd tested it for weeks and the settings are all at safe speeds but for some reason it sped up at the end. Are you hurt bad?"
"I'll be fine, just some bruising. Would you mind if I borrowed the remote?" Basil gave Gadget a knowing look. "I know someone who could take a look at it. Very talented electronics and machinery expert."
"Of course! Whatever makes things safer for my stars." Oscar nearly floored Basil with a hearty backslap as the techie gave Gadget (or rather Scarlet) the remote. "Why don't you look it over while you two rest up for the next scene? We'll call you when everything is set up."
Hopefully the remote could produce some evidence leading to whoever had tampered with the scene. Miss Hackwrench was certainly going to be the go to professional to find any signs of sabotage.
ooc: Hope this is good to work with. Feel free to pad your side of the shooting as much as you need and if you like, set up the costumes or other prep for the next scene XD Status, loving this thread
Post by Gadget Hackwrench on Aug 21, 2017 20:17:51 GMT -5
For a moment, Gadget could only watch Basil, completely shocked by how well he did. It was completely convincing and very graceful, almost like a dance. Where on earth had he learned to do that?
“Pssst!” A mouse was waving at her off camera. He was gesturing franticly at her hand while miming shooting a gun. Gadget remembered that she had the little water pistol/ laser gun in her hand and quickly focused back on what she was doing. Basil was running up the steps and she raced after them, stopping at the foot of the pyramid to make shooting gestures at a few of the extras chasing down the hero. A few of them obediently fell, grasping at invisible wounds that would be added in post.
Basil reached the gem and Gadget gave a celebratory cheer, almost forgetting that it was all fake. Then a huge voice rumbled through the studio and the octopus began to move. Gadget could plainly see that the tentacles were very heavy and falling dangerously close to him. “Watch out!” She started to run toward Basil, only to hear his yelp of pain before it was drowned out by the shuddering final slam of the statue’s trap.
Gadget dropped the ‘gun’ and covered her mouth with her hands, her eyes wide with horror and shock. Was this the danger they had been warned about? She spun around to the crew. “What are you waiting for? He needs our help!” Gadget ran forward, but before she could reach the tentacles, Basil appeared in a narrow gap and managed to squirm free.
He was saying lines and holding up the gem but Gadget didn’t care. She threw her arms around his neck and hugged him tightly. For a terrible moment she’d thought he’d been squashed flat and she was so relieved to see him she felt her eyes well with tears. Gadget pulled away and, looking at the gem, remembered she had lines. “I knew my father was right about you.”
Goldmouse called the end of the scene and Gadget glared at the director before turning to watch as Basil inspected his poor tail. The detective insisted that his tail would be fine and suggested Gadget examine the remote. She traded the gem for the device and turned it over carefully in her hands before opening up the back. While she fiddled with the remote, turning knobs and pressing buttons, the massive tentacles moved about in a jarring way, making strange metallic noises. Gadget began to take it apart, much to the dismay of the tech mouse, and followed Basil back to their dressing rooms.
Once they were alone, Gadget spoke. “It was definitely tampered with.” She looked up at the taller mouse, real concern on her face. “… someone is trying to sabotage this movie and we’ve got to find them before someone really gets hurt.”
At that moment their stylists entered and again pulled the two stars apart. Gadget gave him a worried look over her shoulder but ultimately went. When she emerged she was wearing a different dress, white and sleeveless. Her hair was up in a complicated design of knots and braids within a net that sparkled with fake diamonds.
An assistant added one final pat of powder to Gadget’s face. “Now once you’re ready you’ll head to stage three for the colosseum scene. We only have the cats for today so time is short.”
Gadget paled. Cats?
((Basil of Baker Street if you want to get them to the next stage I'll set up the scene in my next post?))
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Post by Basil of Baker Street on Aug 25, 2017 18:24:49 GMT -5
Back at the dressing room Basil had taken the pieces of the remote and started dusting them for prints, luckily the make up table had enough powders to use for the task. Normally such a test would require taking finger prints from everyone in the studio but given Goldmouse's very fast paced production they wouldn't have that chance. Better to focus on what else the prints could tell them.
"Well after eliminating my own prints, I've memorised them for such occasions, we're left with three other handlers for this device. Yours, the technicians and the saboteur. If we take it as a given that both you and the technician follow safety procedures when handling such equipment, we can focus on the remaining set who removed the casing quickly and carelessly. This was a rush job by someone with little to no knowledge of such matters. Which rules out a good portion of the crew as our suspects. They'd at least have to prove their skill to gain employment in their field in the first place."
The stylists ambushed the two detectives once more before they could continue. This time Basil was provided with greco roman style clothing, a grey tunic to start with followed by leather arm wraps, belt and boots. Then small armour pieces were attached, brass shin guards and a similar arm guard down Basil's left arm leaving his right arm free for offensive moves. Seemingly he was to be a combatant in this Colosseum scene, from what he studied it seemed that such roles were reserved for the lower ranks of society so that they could provide entertainment for those above them, though some were lucky enough to enjoy some celebrity out of it before they eventually lost.
Once he was fully set up he was ushered back out, Gadget just receiving the finishing touches on her hair and makeup. The detective blushed and averted his gaze, feeling somewhat unprepared as once more he was paired up with a scene partner who played the part of royalty just as well as she did in overalls working on a combustion engine.
What was that last part?
"Cats? Good lord I hope they're paid professionals."
It was hard to say until they got to the studio. He'd encountered cats ranging from Alice Liddell's kitten to Ratigan's pet monster Felicia, even the Siamese twins who had tried to rob a museum exhibit some months back. Civilised or wild, good or bad. It could go many different ways.
"So a left handed suspect who has no skill with machinery. and while we look out for them we have to perform a fight scene with cats." Basil pinched the bridge of his nose as he opened the door for Gadget. "If things start going wrong Miss Hackwrench, please don't hesitate to get to cover."
Post by Gadget Hackwrench on Sept 12, 2017 19:02:26 GMT -5
Gadget turned her head at the sound of Basil’s voice, looking him over in his new costume. The assistant had called this the colosseum scene… and it appeared that Basil would once again be doing the fighting… except this time it would be a cat and not a robot. Considering how the last scene had gone, Gadget was starting to have second thoughts.
Basil voiced similar concerns as they made their way to the next location. He opened the door for her and they had a brief moment of privacy where he used her real name to caution her about what could happen. Gadget looked up at him and allowed Basil to see the worry in her eyes. “Basil… you don’t have to do this.”
When she’d signed up for this she’d never imagined the danger would be such that they would get hurt, and yet Basil had nearly died in the last scene. Now there were cats in the mix. They could try to come up with something else, some other plan, that didn’t involve all this risk—
“There are my stars!” Goldmouse waved them forward, urging them to fall in step with him as he made his way deeper into the set. Gadget gave Basil one more heavy look before following the director. “Now, the hero and the princess have escaped with the gem, only to crash into this planet and be taken prisoner! The Evil Czar that rules here knows the princess and will ransom her for money, but he has a surprise for her— Chase will be given to the mutated cat beasts!” The director led them to where Gadget and the other royals would be seated and pointed down below to a sandy pit littered with prop bones of mice.
Gadget perked her ears up, listening. She could hear cats yowling— very obviously annoyed, if not completely furious. She felt the hair rise on the back of her neck. They didnt sound like intelligent cats that would be ‘acting’ along with Basil and the other ‘gladiators.’
Gadget’s clever eyes surveyed the arena again. “But… this area is too small for cats.”
Goldmouse waved away her concerns. “My Dear, did you think I’d really let cats run wild through my production?” As if on cue, the gates around the arena began to rise. Gadget could see eyes in the darkness reflecting the light. She shrank closer to basil. A stuffed mouse was tossed into the arena and a cat paw shot through the opening, its claws pinning the straw-mouse and raking it back into the darkness. “See? At just the right time we’ll… use the stand-in.”
Goldmouse directed Basil to go wait below and yelled for everyone to take their places while he went to speak to the camera mice. Basil was passed a helmet with a trojan fan on top. Gadget looked at him closely. “We have to assume they’ll try to sabotage this too.” Gadget stepped closer to Basil and began to pat down his armor and check the kinks. It wouldn’t do much against cat claws, but it was better than nothing. Goldmouse was shouting instructions and they were running out of time, but Gadget couldn’t shake the feeling she had. She grabbed the helmet from Basil and ran her hands through the coarse hair that made up the trojan mane. She pulled out a clump and rubbed it between her fingers before lifting it to her nose. “… I think this is… cat nip!”
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Post by Basil of Baker Street on Sept 15, 2017 19:54:46 GMT -5
Basil noticed that Gadget was becoming unnerved by the danger involved, if not for herself then for him. He gently patted the back of her hand to reassure her.
"If not me then another would take the role and have to risk their own life. If anything Miss Hackwrench I should object to you being involved in this case facing the same danger. Of course you'll refuse to step aside and risk harm to innocents no matter what I say. It seems Detectives and Rescue Rangers are cut from the same kind of cloth."
They were called out on to the set shortly thereafter. A basic roman Colosseum with a balcony type area for distinguished viewers and portcullis gates hiding the cats behind them. From the looks of things this particular set bordered the backstreets and local cats had been lured to the area to fill in. The detective flicked through his copy of the script to check up on what his role was supposed to be while Oscar revelled in his creativity. Apparently Chase would be forced in with the mutant cat beasts, escape through a drain tunnel and meet up with the Princess when she escaped the Czar.
"I'm beginning to notice a recurring theme with the nobility in this story. It seems that your character is the only one without any evil will towards others."
The Czar was played by a well groomed chinchilla dressed in a royal toga, still practising his vocal range while the last few stand in dummies were dressed for the scene (all with a remarkable likeness of Basil). Gadget made her own inspection of the costume, finding the hidden catnip that was intended to rile up the cats. Basil furrowed his brow at the discovery. He took the helmet and looked around cautiously before swapping it with one on the dummy mice when the crew weren't watching.
"Unfortunately the other plumes seem to be coated with a lesser amount also, possibly to rile them up before the show starts. To be safe you should wash your hands at the first opportunity, continue the scene as planned and be on the lookout for any clues. Especially take note of who isn't here, they won't risk the catnip they've handled attracting danger to themselves. All the same I'd prefer if we managed this in one 'take' I believe the technical term is. In the meantime why don't we discuss some improvisation?"
While the last minute setup was going on Basil pilfered one of the squirt guns from the prop table along with the milk from the tea trolley. Once the gun was reloaded with the appropriate 'ammunition' he replaced it on the table in time for the extras playing the Czar's henchmen to retrieve them for their holsters.
"It seems to me that the Princess, even when held prisoner, would be looking for any advantage. Perhaps she swiped a weapon from one of the guards and tosses it to Chase. Like Ariadne giving Theseus a sword and string when he was sent into the labyrinth. Good luck Miss Ha...Monrose."
The two adventurers were separated for their respective starting positions. Basil in the centre of the dusty arena and Gadget up above. He took a few deep breaths and stretches, expecting a demand of his physical skills for this particular scene.
ooc: If you need we can discuss any acting dialogue from Basil that you may or may not like to throw in your post when the shooting starts. Otherwise tell me if changes are needed.
Post by Gadget Hackwrench on Sept 17, 2017 16:44:58 GMT -5
While Basil spoke, Gadget looked down at their hands. Of course he was right. Being a Rescue Ranger meant sometimes going in to danger and facing what scared you most. Had she forgotten that? Yes, she was a little out of practice where Rangering was concerned, but…
“…Detectives and Rangers are cut from the same kind of cloth.”
Gadget lifted her head to look at Basil and squared her shoulders. She couldn’t be afraid. She had a job to do.
Still, being in danger didnt mean they weren’t going to do everything they could to protect themselves. Basil swapped out the helmets and quickly filled one of the squirt guns with milk. While he worked, Gadget stood with her back to him and made sure no one saw what he was up to while pretending to drink a cup of tea from the trolley.
Basil explained his plan and Gadget carefully noted just which guard picked up the holster with the right water pistol. “Got it. You just stay clear of those cats.”
While Basil went to take his place down below Gadget went to her chair next to the chinchilla.
Goldmouse yelled into his megaphone. “ACTION!”
Gadget sat there, dignified and strong but obviously angry, while the Czar spouted exposition. She stole another glance around and was relieved to see the guard she was targeting was standing nearby. That made things easier, at least. The Czar turned to her and laughed evily and Gadget glared up at him.
“Holding me here is an act of treason. All the realms will be at war if you do not free me. I demand you return the gem to my car, release my escort, and provide a ship.”
The czar laughed again, clearly not frightened by the princess’s bluffing. Instead, he gestured down to the arena, where several guards marched Basil out onto the sand. Gadget acted her part and ran to railing. “Chase!” She whipped around to face the Czar. “You can’t do this!”
The chinchilla spread his hands and told Gadget he could do whatever he liked. He snapped his fingers and the gates around the arena slowly began to rise. Cameras zoomed in on the black archways, on the glowing cat eyes. Gadget heard the huge animals growling, the sounds even more fearsome as they echoed around the sound stage.
The guards began to use their spears to force Basil toward the openings. Gadget ran to the guard stationed by the Czar, pulled his helmet down over his eyes and snatched the water gun from the holster he wore. “Chase!” She threw the pistol to him just as a huge orange cat paw reached through one of the archways.
Now she turned her attention to the portcullis's around the arenas. As soon as the scene was complete, those had to drop. Or, if things got bad, before then. Gadget quickly located the control panel for the doors and noted the mouse stationed beside them. He'd better pay attention!
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Post by Basil of Baker Street on Sept 23, 2017 18:59:57 GMT -5
Basil played along with his role for now, not having much dialogue in this scene. The extras playing the guards were kind enough to give him some room to work with as they 'forced' him towards the gates. Either they didn't want to get too close to the cats themselves or they didn't want to have to explain to their director that they got one of the lead actors killed by accidentally pushing him too far.
Gadget played her role as convincingly as ever, could be useful in undercover work at some point in the future, and at first opportunity she threw the prop gun in his direction. The Czar briefly looked towards Goldmouse for instruction, to which the director responded by urging him on while trying not to shout out praise for the sudden improvisation that Scarlet had applied to the scene.
"Fwoo-hoo-hoo." The chinchilla let out an odd laugh that showed that the character he played was decadent and elitist. "Let him have the little pea shooter. The mutated cat beasts are quite laser proof."
When he was close to the gate Basil turned with the squirt gun, took aim and fired at the nearest cat. The feline stopped for a second as the milk splashed on his face, then licked its lips before indicating it wanted more of the unexpected treat. Occasionally another cat would push in for their own share, as Basil was slowly edging towards the gate just close enough for the benefit of the cameras. Eventually he feigned running out of ammunition, checked his gun then threw it towards the cats, letting the last of the milk spill outside to distract them.
"CUT! Bring me my straw-mouse!"
Basil backed away as soon as the cameras stopped rolling, letting the crew roll up the dummy. Realising the decoy was now bearing the cat nip helmet the detective quietly ushered the crewmen back, offering to finish the job and encouraging them to take a break to enjoy the show. While the filming began anew, Basil ducked out of shot as the guards jabbed the dummy with their spears, pushing it just in range for a cat paw to drag it out of the gate and start tearing it apart.
"Fwoo-hoo-hoo. Not much of a show was it my little space jewel? But the Baron and the Shadow Sorcerer will pay handsomely to hear of the demise of Chase Cheddar." The actor playing the Czar was quite intent on hamming it up for his own part in the movie. "and now to my feast."
"CUT! Bravo everyone. Editing can make the switch flow better and we'll add more monster noises in post. Take five everyone." Oscar filled another coffee cup with his 'inspiration' flask. "Take five everyone. Miss Monrose and Mister Basil have given me many ideas to consider."
Basil claimed a few supplies from the tea trolly and made his way up to the balcony, passing the guards and Czar on the way, he was quite friendly but just as dramatic out of character as he congratulated both the leads on their performances and suggested that their agents all get together for future projects. The detective responded with his own compliments before catching up with Gadget. "Well, I'm not sure how my character was supposed to survive intact, but according to the script I make it out fine. Excellent work again Miss Monrose." He handed Gadget a cup of tea, offering milk, sugar and other additives before preparing his own drink. "So did you happen to see who wasn't among the crew?"
ooc: Hope this is okay to work with. Holla at me if you need any changes.
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Welcome to Happily Ever Afters!
Tony Dracon: Responded to your PM, Kat/Ratigan, incidentally.
Jun 27, 2018 20:25:02 GMT -5
David Xanatos: Kat's back. Hope the vacation was fun.
Jul 21, 2018 21:00:05 GMT -5
Professor Ratigan: 'Twas a good trip! I'm sad it's over, but at the same time I'm glad to be back home so I can finish up my cosplays for a con next month and hang out with my cats
Jul 26, 2018 12:34:56 GMT -5
Basil of Baker Street: Hope the cosplay goes well. I'm putting away a little extra for a con in a few weeks. and yay cats, they're always good company. Except for that one who slaps me unprovoked XD. So what cosplays do you have in mind unless they're secret?
Jul 26, 2018 17:07:41 GMT -5
Professor Ratigan: I'm cosplaying Pearl from Steven Universe and Joseph Joestar from JoJo's Bizarre Adventure!
Jul 26, 2018 23:16:41 GMT -5
Professor Ratigan: I'm almost done both of them, I just have to finish styling Pearl's wig and fix up Joseph's gloves and wristbands
Jul 26, 2018 23:17:31 GMT -5
Basil of Baker Street: Awesome. Had to look up Jojo because I'm not hip with the modern pop culture but I hope they turn out well.
Jul 30, 2018 15:33:15 GMT -5
Professor Ratigan: I only just started watching the anime last year and I haven't even touched the manga, so I'm barely hip with it lol. fortunately I have my cosplay buddy guiding me through the whole experience
Jul 30, 2018 22:29:38 GMT -5
Professor Ratigan: also I finally finished the gloves! They were more of a pain to work with than I expected, but they'll hold together... I hope...
Jul 30, 2018 22:30:13 GMT -5
Basil of Baker Street: Niceness. Hoping they hold also. Got the Dublin comic con next Saturday here. Hoping to meet Karl Urban.
Aug 1, 2018 19:05:32 GMT -5
Professor Ratigan: Cool! I think he's coming to my city in the fall, if I remember correctly. Hope you enjoy the con, Daryl!
Aug 2, 2018 19:10:23 GMT -5
Basil of Baker Street: I spoke too soon. Karl Urban had to cancel for schedule conflicts. They got Nick Frost though, I'm gonna ask him if he'll sign my Hot Fuzz.
Aug 3, 2018 18:08:47 GMT -5
Professor Ratigan: Dang! Nick Frost is great though, I love his character in Into the Badlands
Aug 4, 2018 22:54:36 GMT -5
Basil of Baker Street: Enjoy your weekend Kat, hope the costumes came out as you wanted.
Aug 10, 2018 16:49:31 GMT -5
Basil of Baker Street: Met Nick Frost and Michael Dorn at the weekend. Both very nice blokes.
Aug 13, 2018 15:22:59 GMT -5
Dodger: Happy 2019 everyone
Jan 1, 2019 10:54:04 GMT -5
Yen Sid: If anyone is passing by I posted a Hiatus update. Hope everyone is doing well!
Apr 18, 2021 11:31:09 GMT -5
Yen Sid: I've temporarily disabled account creation while I update the site. Sorry for the inconvenience and thanks for your patience!
May 9, 2021 18:31:45 GMT -5
Owen Burnett/Puck: Checked the site again and saw the update! Here's hoping to a revitalized 2022.
Dec 15, 2021 14:41:27 GMT -5