Tale of Spirits: The Cursed King(RP)
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(This is a Joint post starring: TheLoneGentleman, Valentine_K1S5, Katsucha,and Bagman
.)
The events of the past few days took a toll on Arkasia and her knights. With the knowledge that they were so easily fooled the pressure was on Arkasia to make sure that it never happened again. At the same time she needed to finish preparations for the war. New recruits needed to be trained, and some of her knights would get leadership experience leading small groups of soldiers. Arkasia would leave Krieg in charge of the training exercises while she was attending the war meetings at the Capital. In a lot of ways Krieg was a better teacher than her. As her former mentor she expected the training exercises to go smoothly.
After Arkasia was gone Krieg gathered all the knights, and recruits in the main hall. The knights stood behind him in a line, while the recruits lined up in rows going back.
“During this month I will be training, and selecting teams based on your performance.” shouted Krieg. “You recruits will be spread out among the knights behind me, and transported to random sections in the mountain range, and have to make your way back. You will be given a certain amount of rations, and supplies. If those run out you will have to pray for rescue, and before you ask. Yes this is mandatory. Welcome to Arkasia!”
The knights behind Krieg saluted with a fist to their heart. The recruits had mixes of expressions. Some were scared. Others were excited, and some didn’t seem to care. Krieg was looking forward to how this was all going to play out.
As the teams were decided Razta and Masaki were pleased to find that they were once again paired up with Owain. As they celebrated their reunion a unfamiliar face approached them. A man with long crimson hair, and black leather armor. The man introduced himself as Anastas.
“Nice to meet you.” said Razta extended a hand to their new teammate.
Anastas inspected Razta and gave him a peculiar look before accepting his handshake. ”Pleased. And you are?” He asked peeking past him to eye the rest of the group.
“Razta Sonnelion” answered Razta before releasing the man’s hand.
”And I’m Masaki Arkwon. “ He said as he smiled at his new companion.
As the other teams were introducing themselves to each other Krieg approached Ari. “Seeing as you are a new addition to our ranks, and do not yet have leadership training. You may choose a group to go with.” said Krieg with his hands behind his back.
”Understood sir” Ari said as she then try to figure where to go.Maybe I should join Owain’s group I don’t really know anyone else. Ari thought as she then walked towards where she thought Owain’s group was at.
“I am Sir Owain Glyn, I’ll be acting as leader for this training exercise.” said Owain introducing him, uncharacteristically monotone. As Ari walked up to him he turned to her. “Are you joining us as well?” asked Owain.
”If you allow it sir.
Owain was happy that she didn’t despise him for that fiasco he got them into, “It would be my pleasure.” answered Owain, smiling slyly. “Men this is Dame Ari Fay. She will be joining our team as well.” said Owain introducing her to the group. Suddenly two more members walked up together.
“You said you were Owain right?” said a young looking woman in armor. She held a shield and had a long sword sheathed on her hip. Her short brown hair came out from the side of her helmet that was opened in the front to show her face.
“Yes, are you a part of this group as well?” asked Owain, looking her up and down, every inch of her body. Looking at the man behind her he saw a man with blonde short hair. He was holding a book in one hand, and rested his hand on a sword handle. He wore a brownish-red tunic and blue pants. A red scarf was wrapped around his shoulders.
“Yes my name is Adelina Samet” answered the woman. The man stepped forward from behind her and saluted. “Reymond Talin.” he said simply. The group was rounded off nicely with strong looking men and women. The two newcomers turned and shook hands with their new companions.
“Nice to meet you,” said Adelina to Anastas as she shook his hand. “I look forward to working with you.” She was very polite for a girl her age. Anastas’ only reply seemed to come from a somewhat empty smile as he released from the gesture.
Hmm, three new people in the group. This should be interesting, don’t you think so too, TouTetsuOh? Masaki thought. TouTetsuOh didn’t reply, What the- is he sleeping? Oh well.
The man approached Ari and and saluted. “Glad to see you got out of that mess. Arkasia seems pretty scary.” he said smiling.
”Thank you though I don’t think she’s that scary, just very strict.” Ari saluted back. ”Nice to meet you, Reymond and Adelina.”
.)
The events of the past few days took a toll on Arkasia and her knights. With the knowledge that they were so easily fooled the pressure was on Arkasia to make sure that it never happened again. At the same time she needed to finish preparations for the war. New recruits needed to be trained, and some of her knights would get leadership experience leading small groups of soldiers. Arkasia would leave Krieg in charge of the training exercises while she was attending the war meetings at the Capital. In a lot of ways Krieg was a better teacher than her. As her former mentor she expected the training exercises to go smoothly.
After Arkasia was gone Krieg gathered all the knights, and recruits in the main hall. The knights stood behind him in a line, while the recruits lined up in rows going back.
“During this month I will be training, and selecting teams based on your performance.” shouted Krieg. “You recruits will be spread out among the knights behind me, and transported to random sections in the mountain range, and have to make your way back. You will be given a certain amount of rations, and supplies. If those run out you will have to pray for rescue, and before you ask. Yes this is mandatory. Welcome to Arkasia!”
The knights behind Krieg saluted with a fist to their heart. The recruits had mixes of expressions. Some were scared. Others were excited, and some didn’t seem to care. Krieg was looking forward to how this was all going to play out.
As the teams were decided Razta and Masaki were pleased to find that they were once again paired up with Owain. As they celebrated their reunion a unfamiliar face approached them. A man with long crimson hair, and black leather armor. The man introduced himself as Anastas.
“Nice to meet you.” said Razta extended a hand to their new teammate.
Anastas inspected Razta and gave him a peculiar look before accepting his handshake. ”Pleased. And you are?” He asked peeking past him to eye the rest of the group.
“Razta Sonnelion” answered Razta before releasing the man’s hand.
”And I’m Masaki Arkwon. “ He said as he smiled at his new companion.
As the other teams were introducing themselves to each other Krieg approached Ari. “Seeing as you are a new addition to our ranks, and do not yet have leadership training. You may choose a group to go with.” said Krieg with his hands behind his back.
”Understood sir” Ari said as she then try to figure where to go.Maybe I should join Owain’s group I don’t really know anyone else. Ari thought as she then walked towards where she thought Owain’s group was at.
“I am Sir Owain Glyn, I’ll be acting as leader for this training exercise.” said Owain introducing him, uncharacteristically monotone. As Ari walked up to him he turned to her. “Are you joining us as well?” asked Owain.
”If you allow it sir.
Owain was happy that she didn’t despise him for that fiasco he got them into, “It would be my pleasure.” answered Owain, smiling slyly. “Men this is Dame Ari Fay. She will be joining our team as well.” said Owain introducing her to the group. Suddenly two more members walked up together.
“You said you were Owain right?” said a young looking woman in armor. She held a shield and had a long sword sheathed on her hip. Her short brown hair came out from the side of her helmet that was opened in the front to show her face.
“Yes, are you a part of this group as well?” asked Owain, looking her up and down, every inch of her body. Looking at the man behind her he saw a man with blonde short hair. He was holding a book in one hand, and rested his hand on a sword handle. He wore a brownish-red tunic and blue pants. A red scarf was wrapped around his shoulders.
“Yes my name is Adelina Samet” answered the woman. The man stepped forward from behind her and saluted. “Reymond Talin.” he said simply. The group was rounded off nicely with strong looking men and women. The two newcomers turned and shook hands with their new companions.
“Nice to meet you,” said Adelina to Anastas as she shook his hand. “I look forward to working with you.” She was very polite for a girl her age. Anastas’ only reply seemed to come from a somewhat empty smile as he released from the gesture.
Hmm, three new people in the group. This should be interesting, don’t you think so too, TouTetsuOh? Masaki thought. TouTetsuOh didn’t reply, What the- is he sleeping? Oh well.
The man approached Ari and and saluted. “Glad to see you got out of that mess. Arkasia seems pretty scary.” he said smiling.
”Thank you though I don’t think she’s that scary, just very strict.” Ari saluted back. ”Nice to meet you, Reymond and Adelina.”
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(This is a Joint post starring: TheLoneGentleman, Katsucha, BagMan and Galahad_Meals
.)
After the group was properly acquainted Owain cleared his throat loudly to get their attention. This was his chance to prove to anyone that thought otherwise that he was a good leader. “Now that we have all met, I would like to get a feel for everyones capabilities. Before we leave”
“What did you have in mind?” asked Razta.
“Sparring.” answered Owain. “Any takers?” Owain already had an idea about Razta and Masaki. Ari, Adelina, and Reymond were wildcards to him currently. Reymond stepped forward. “I am willing to go first.” he announced. Owain looked to Ari. “Ari how about you spar with Reymond?”
”I don’t mind, though will this be a spar using our own strength or can we use are spirits sir?”
Owain thought for a second. “Spirits are allowed, but no killing blows. Let’s head to the training grounds.”
”Understood sir.
The group left the crowds of groups, and walking out to the training grounds. This area was outside, but still on castle grounds. There were training dummies stacked in the corned, but they were cleared out until actually training takes place.
Reymond stepped out into the center and waited for his opponent. Razta, and the others stood on the sides as spectators.
Ari followed Reymond into the grounds. ”You better not think you’ll have an easy time.”
“Wouldn’t consider it.” he answered opening his book and holding his sword.
”Good.” Ari said with a smile. She then place her hand on her chest two golems came forth from the ground below. One had a sword and spear while the other golem had two shields.
“Impressive…” said Reymond a little intimidated. He had heard that she hosted an earth spirit, but her talent with it was above his expectations. †˜As to be expected of a knight of Arkasia.’ he thought. Focusing deeply the pages on his book began to flip swiftly. Four swords made of light began to float around him, but one slowly flickered off and faded. “I still have a ways to go it seems…”
“You two gonna talk all day?” said Owain looking on from the sidelines.
”Don’t worry it takes practice. But now lets see what you got! Ari said as she signal Gai to strike. The golem started off slowly, but began moving fast as he prepared his spear to strike. Reymond tried to dodge to the side as the golem approached.
Leaping to the side he barely avoided the golems lunge. He was forced to raise his blade to put more distance from the spear as sparks flew past his face. Sliding under the golem he sent his swords into the arm and leg of Gai. The golem fell down immobilized.
Looking to Ari he saw that she had one more golem, but in order to keep the binded one at bay he needed to keep his focus. Luckily he was able to keep calm as he raised his sword, and walked slowly keeping his eyes on her second golem.
”Tch, not bad. Ari said though a bit shocked that he was able to immobilize Gai easily. Guess I need to be careful myself. Ari thought she then quickly dash towards where Reymond was at drawing out her blade.
Ari approached faster than Reymond expected, but he was quick to react and prepared his stance. Holding his sword arm straight he attempted to keep her at a slight distance. Sadly with his attention on keeping her golem at bay he couldn’t concentrate on her movements.
Ari kept pushing on hoping that by having her golem out it would make him not just concentrate on her. She manage to close in on Reymond she then strike. Reymond tried to raise his sword to deflect the blow, but he couldn't. He was outclassed by the knight. Resting the sword on his neck she declared her win.
“Beauty as well as power. Impressive.” he said as he held still the blade poised at his throat.
“B-b-beauty! I’m not a beauty!” Ari said as her face turned red.
Reymond laughed at her getting flustered from his flattery. “Regardless it is your win. Well played Ari Fay.”
Owain let out a loud laugh. “Well that was fast. Reymond I see you have experience in seals. Good to know.” Then he looked to the knight who was standing in perfect posture to his right. He could tell she was excited, but she kept her composure. He smiled, “Adelina it is your turn.”
Without a word she stepped out into the field as Ari and Reymond shook hands and joined the rest of the team as spectators. Masaki got ready to stand up, but Razta launched to his feet and walked out onto the field. Masaki pouted as his opportunity was wasted.
”H-hey! It’s my turn!” Masaki Sighed and continued, ”Don’t you dare to lose! We spar some other time then!” Masaki sat back down.
“I don’t plan on losing here. After all we have yet to have our match. I won’t lose until after I shove your face in the dirt.” he teased.
”Hahaha! I’ll be waiting then!” Masaki gave Razta a thumbs up.
Adelina sighed. “Can we please start, sir?” she said drawing her sword. Raising her shield she held her sword over her head pointed at Razta. Razta smirked as drew his dagger as he slid out his foot taking his combat stance.
“Feel free.” said Owain.
Adelina didn’t move instead she stared down Razta waiting for him to make the first move. Razta was aware of what she was up to, but in order to move this fight along he needed to play a bit into her hands. Focusing deeply his body began to heat up, and his body gave a slight glow. Adelina looked on wary of what ever he was up to. Easing up she slowly closed the distance. Suddenly Razta snapped in at a speed her eyes could barely keep up with.
Raising her shield she swung in response, but her attack came up empty. Razta slipped to the side and went for a powerful punch to her side. Finding a sweet spot where her armor was weak Razta hit her so hard she flew to the side, and rolled a few times dropping her sword.
Razta rushed over to her afraid when he hit her harder than intended. The girl holding her side stood up slowly. “What that hell was that?!” she exclaimed. “Wasn’t this supposed to be training?”
Razta was surprised by her sudden change in character. Before Razta could explain himself she smacked him in the face with her shield as hard as she could. Razta went dazed for a moment as she tackled him to the ground. Lifting both her hands over her head she attempted to slam down on his face. Razta grabbed her hands and held her back, but they were even on power. After a small struggle Razta was able to kick her off, and roll out of the way. Before the two could continue fighting Owain interrupted them.
“That will do. Razta was the winner, but after what I saw it’s best to call it a draw.” Owain said laughing. Adelina disagreed, but did not question her superior. Standing up she extended her hand to Razta. “Good fight,” she said. Razta shook her hand. “Yea…” he said feeling slightly light headed.
“That just leaves Anastas and Masaki.” said Owain looking to the last two fighters.
.)
After the group was properly acquainted Owain cleared his throat loudly to get their attention. This was his chance to prove to anyone that thought otherwise that he was a good leader. “Now that we have all met, I would like to get a feel for everyones capabilities. Before we leave”
“What did you have in mind?” asked Razta.
“Sparring.” answered Owain. “Any takers?” Owain already had an idea about Razta and Masaki. Ari, Adelina, and Reymond were wildcards to him currently. Reymond stepped forward. “I am willing to go first.” he announced. Owain looked to Ari. “Ari how about you spar with Reymond?”
”I don’t mind, though will this be a spar using our own strength or can we use are spirits sir?”
Owain thought for a second. “Spirits are allowed, but no killing blows. Let’s head to the training grounds.”
”Understood sir.
The group left the crowds of groups, and walking out to the training grounds. This area was outside, but still on castle grounds. There were training dummies stacked in the corned, but they were cleared out until actually training takes place.
Reymond stepped out into the center and waited for his opponent. Razta, and the others stood on the sides as spectators.
Ari followed Reymond into the grounds. ”You better not think you’ll have an easy time.”
“Wouldn’t consider it.” he answered opening his book and holding his sword.
”Good.” Ari said with a smile. She then place her hand on her chest two golems came forth from the ground below. One had a sword and spear while the other golem had two shields.
“Impressive…” said Reymond a little intimidated. He had heard that she hosted an earth spirit, but her talent with it was above his expectations. †˜As to be expected of a knight of Arkasia.’ he thought. Focusing deeply the pages on his book began to flip swiftly. Four swords made of light began to float around him, but one slowly flickered off and faded. “I still have a ways to go it seems…”
“You two gonna talk all day?” said Owain looking on from the sidelines.
”Don’t worry it takes practice. But now lets see what you got! Ari said as she signal Gai to strike. The golem started off slowly, but began moving fast as he prepared his spear to strike. Reymond tried to dodge to the side as the golem approached.
Leaping to the side he barely avoided the golems lunge. He was forced to raise his blade to put more distance from the spear as sparks flew past his face. Sliding under the golem he sent his swords into the arm and leg of Gai. The golem fell down immobilized.
Looking to Ari he saw that she had one more golem, but in order to keep the binded one at bay he needed to keep his focus. Luckily he was able to keep calm as he raised his sword, and walked slowly keeping his eyes on her second golem.
”Tch, not bad. Ari said though a bit shocked that he was able to immobilize Gai easily. Guess I need to be careful myself. Ari thought she then quickly dash towards where Reymond was at drawing out her blade.
Ari approached faster than Reymond expected, but he was quick to react and prepared his stance. Holding his sword arm straight he attempted to keep her at a slight distance. Sadly with his attention on keeping her golem at bay he couldn’t concentrate on her movements.
Ari kept pushing on hoping that by having her golem out it would make him not just concentrate on her. She manage to close in on Reymond she then strike. Reymond tried to raise his sword to deflect the blow, but he couldn't. He was outclassed by the knight. Resting the sword on his neck she declared her win.
“Beauty as well as power. Impressive.” he said as he held still the blade poised at his throat.
“B-b-beauty! I’m not a beauty!” Ari said as her face turned red.
Reymond laughed at her getting flustered from his flattery. “Regardless it is your win. Well played Ari Fay.”
Owain let out a loud laugh. “Well that was fast. Reymond I see you have experience in seals. Good to know.” Then he looked to the knight who was standing in perfect posture to his right. He could tell she was excited, but she kept her composure. He smiled, “Adelina it is your turn.”
Without a word she stepped out into the field as Ari and Reymond shook hands and joined the rest of the team as spectators. Masaki got ready to stand up, but Razta launched to his feet and walked out onto the field. Masaki pouted as his opportunity was wasted.
”H-hey! It’s my turn!” Masaki Sighed and continued, ”Don’t you dare to lose! We spar some other time then!” Masaki sat back down.
“I don’t plan on losing here. After all we have yet to have our match. I won’t lose until after I shove your face in the dirt.” he teased.
”Hahaha! I’ll be waiting then!” Masaki gave Razta a thumbs up.
Adelina sighed. “Can we please start, sir?” she said drawing her sword. Raising her shield she held her sword over her head pointed at Razta. Razta smirked as drew his dagger as he slid out his foot taking his combat stance.
“Feel free.” said Owain.
Adelina didn’t move instead she stared down Razta waiting for him to make the first move. Razta was aware of what she was up to, but in order to move this fight along he needed to play a bit into her hands. Focusing deeply his body began to heat up, and his body gave a slight glow. Adelina looked on wary of what ever he was up to. Easing up she slowly closed the distance. Suddenly Razta snapped in at a speed her eyes could barely keep up with.
Raising her shield she swung in response, but her attack came up empty. Razta slipped to the side and went for a powerful punch to her side. Finding a sweet spot where her armor was weak Razta hit her so hard she flew to the side, and rolled a few times dropping her sword.
Razta rushed over to her afraid when he hit her harder than intended. The girl holding her side stood up slowly. “What that hell was that?!” she exclaimed. “Wasn’t this supposed to be training?”
Razta was surprised by her sudden change in character. Before Razta could explain himself she smacked him in the face with her shield as hard as she could. Razta went dazed for a moment as she tackled him to the ground. Lifting both her hands over her head she attempted to slam down on his face. Razta grabbed her hands and held her back, but they were even on power. After a small struggle Razta was able to kick her off, and roll out of the way. Before the two could continue fighting Owain interrupted them.
“That will do. Razta was the winner, but after what I saw it’s best to call it a draw.” Owain said laughing. Adelina disagreed, but did not question her superior. Standing up she extended her hand to Razta. “Good fight,” she said. Razta shook her hand. “Yea…” he said feeling slightly light headed.
“That just leaves Anastas and Masaki.” said Owain looking to the last two fighters.
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(This is a Joint post starring: TheLoneGentleman, Meals, Valentine_K1S5 and Katsucha, Bagman.)
Masaki stepped forward excited to fight, but his opponent had yet to move from his spot. “I will pass, I don’t see the point in this.” said Anastas to Masaki’s dismay.
”What? Why? Masaki asked with a disappointed face.
“No point, eh?” Said Owain, his smile cracking slightly, “You tell me there’s no point? You? The nerve”
“Our group is meant to be fighting as a team. What point is there to fight amongst ourselves?” asked Anastas.
“I need to know what you can do” Owain retorted “I’d rather not have to discover your skills while I’m busy smashing skulls in battle myself. For us to fight as a unit I need to know exactly who fits where, don’t you think that’s sensible, mister Fenix?”
“Hmph, if you believe so. Let’s get this over with quickly.” answered Anastas walking out to the field.
”Perfect!” Masaki followed Anastas to the field.
“When you’re ready” Owain called out.
”Okay!” Masaki quickly set his fighting stance. He clenched his fists and looked at Anastas in a serious way. It seemed like he was an entirely different person.
Anastas pulled out his bow and knocked back an impact arrow. A small flame sparked and covered his bow. Narrowing his eyes he loosed the arrow and released his shot at Masaki. Masaki with keen senses deflected the arrow not taking his eyes off his opponent. His gauntlet began to ebb slightly.
Ranged fighter huh? If that’s the case, Quickly after deflecting Anastas’s flaming arrow, he ran up to him and immediately jabbed at him. Anastas was able to read most of Masaki’s movements, but at the last moment masaki increased his speed. His punch connected with Anastas’ side as he tried to dodge. Seeing as his bow would do him no good at the range Anastas tried to switch weapons to his daggers. He was able to reach for his daggers, but panicking he took a little time to draw them.
Masaki noticed that Anastas panicked a little. He took this chance to deliver a backhand punch at Anastas chest. Raising his hand he blocked the punch and spun around Masaki drawing his daggers. Flipping them to the dull sides he swiped at the back of Masaki’s head with both daggers. Connecting Anastas was surprised to find that Masaki barely flinched from the attack. Jumping back he put some distance between him and Masaki.
“Great. I’m going to have to give this more effort than I want.” said Anastas focusing on Demyan. His ears became more pointed like a wolf and his eyes became sharper and a more yellow hue. “Let’s go, Demyan!” His spirit howled inside his head.
What the- did he just change? Masaki stepped back. TouTetsuOh, come! Masaki yelled. His gauntlet glowed, he quickly dashed forward and delivered an open palm downward punch. Anastas stepped to the side reading Masaki telegraphed attack. But after that Masaki snapped in with an elbow hitting him in the head.The dazed Anastas tried to regain his senses as a lightning fast punch hit his chest.
Being knocked back slightly Anastas struggled to find his stance, but stabbing his dagger down he stabilized himself. Anastas couldn’t deal with that kind of assault again. Sheathing his daggers he took out his bow and aimed for Masaki.
The arrow flew true, but Masaki was able to narrowly dodge it. Seeing that Anastas knocked back another arrow, Masaki grinned. He immediately rushed back to the front of Anastas to deliver an open palm punch. Masaki attempted to close the distance, but before he did Anastas pulled back another arrow and shot it at close range. The blow knocked back Masaki a bit making his attack go off target.
“Getting complacent now, are we?” taunted Anastas staring down Masaki. He could feel his own limit was close, but he wasn’t about to lose this fight. But as he tried to keep in control his breathing became ragged and his naturally brown hair began to change to a snow white. Anastas was becoming unstable. Dropping his bow, he slowly grabbed his daggers and fell into a feral stance.
Owain’s eyes widened, realising what was happening. He diverted the energy Nimue provides into his armour, feeling the water heating up and turning into steam, he began to rush in to stop Anastas tearing Masaki apart.
Razta looked on in surprise. He had seen this happen before, but not to someone that spent most of their time in the divine lands. This was usually due to an imbalance somewhere along the growing process. That was what he learned from the elder.
Owain stood in front of the readied Anastas, his shield between the two. Anastas ran at Owain who was in the way of his prey, but in his beastial state Owain had no problem reading his movements. Blocking the incoming attack he used his shield to swat Anastas to the side. Razta dashed in and restrained him.
Owain walked over to the now restrained Anastas. “If you can’t control it, you’re nothing but a liability”
His words were lost on Anastas who just tried to break free from Razta’s grasp. Reymond walked up flipping through his book. “Allow me.” he said as his book began to glow. Raising his hand to Anasta’s face he muttered a few quiet incantations.
”. . .What just happened?” Masaki stood up and looked at Anastas who was being restrained by Razta. Confused on what just happened, he asked his spirit, What’s wrong with him, TouTetsuOh? His spirit answered, Just something that happens to people who †˜become one’ with their spirit without a medium. As in getting in raw. Masaki was still confused with his spirit’s answer. He focused his attention to the restrained Anastas.
“This man suffers from something many hybrids do.” said Reymond as a white aura emitted from his hand calming Demyan. “An over synchronization between spirit and host.” Anastas came to his senses and relaxed. Turning to Owain pleaded to him on Anastas’ behalf. “This man won’t be a problem as long as he maintains control, and we need an experienced archer. The man’s skills are not to be ignored.”
“Ugh, I’ve done it again.” he said as he began to straighten himself up. Turning his head to Razta, he showed that he was in control again, and Razta released him. Free to move, Anastas brushed off the dust on his coat. He had experienced this plenty of times and his attitude towards it was rather aloof.
“If that happens again, and it really is one of my troops’ lives on the line, I won’t hesitate cut you down” Owain said, leaning in close to Anastas.
“Hmph, if you say so captain” he responded. He knew the man wasn’t joking around, but he knew that there wasn’t much he could do if push came to shove. Still, he felt that some of this rage was unwarranted. Dismissing himself from Owain, he picked up his bow and gave a brief and somewhat sincere apology to Masaki. “Sorry you had your fun ruined like that.”
“So that’s what happens if you can’t control the synchronization,huh” Ari muttered to herself. “Hey Gaius, is that why you didn’t let me try that before?”. “Yes, without a proper teacher accomplishing it by yourself is difficult.” “I see. Well not like it matters now summoning Gai and Terra is more fun.”
Suddenly Kreig walked out to the training area. “Get yourselves together we are heading out.” ordered Krieg looking around. He could tell something happened, but it appeared to be resolved.
“Sir!” Owain responded in compliance. Turning to his new unit he in turn gave an order, “grab your weapons and courage, we’re heading out now. Steel yourselves” The group gathered themselves, and even though there were issues in the group they were aware of what was needed to be done. As they headed out with the other groups they wondered just what was waiting for them during this training exercise.
Masaki stepped forward excited to fight, but his opponent had yet to move from his spot. “I will pass, I don’t see the point in this.” said Anastas to Masaki’s dismay.
”What? Why? Masaki asked with a disappointed face.
“No point, eh?” Said Owain, his smile cracking slightly, “You tell me there’s no point? You? The nerve”
“Our group is meant to be fighting as a team. What point is there to fight amongst ourselves?” asked Anastas.
“I need to know what you can do” Owain retorted “I’d rather not have to discover your skills while I’m busy smashing skulls in battle myself. For us to fight as a unit I need to know exactly who fits where, don’t you think that’s sensible, mister Fenix?”
“Hmph, if you believe so. Let’s get this over with quickly.” answered Anastas walking out to the field.
”Perfect!” Masaki followed Anastas to the field.
“When you’re ready” Owain called out.
”Okay!” Masaki quickly set his fighting stance. He clenched his fists and looked at Anastas in a serious way. It seemed like he was an entirely different person.
Anastas pulled out his bow and knocked back an impact arrow. A small flame sparked and covered his bow. Narrowing his eyes he loosed the arrow and released his shot at Masaki. Masaki with keen senses deflected the arrow not taking his eyes off his opponent. His gauntlet began to ebb slightly.
Ranged fighter huh? If that’s the case, Quickly after deflecting Anastas’s flaming arrow, he ran up to him and immediately jabbed at him. Anastas was able to read most of Masaki’s movements, but at the last moment masaki increased his speed. His punch connected with Anastas’ side as he tried to dodge. Seeing as his bow would do him no good at the range Anastas tried to switch weapons to his daggers. He was able to reach for his daggers, but panicking he took a little time to draw them.
Masaki noticed that Anastas panicked a little. He took this chance to deliver a backhand punch at Anastas chest. Raising his hand he blocked the punch and spun around Masaki drawing his daggers. Flipping them to the dull sides he swiped at the back of Masaki’s head with both daggers. Connecting Anastas was surprised to find that Masaki barely flinched from the attack. Jumping back he put some distance between him and Masaki.
“Great. I’m going to have to give this more effort than I want.” said Anastas focusing on Demyan. His ears became more pointed like a wolf and his eyes became sharper and a more yellow hue. “Let’s go, Demyan!” His spirit howled inside his head.
What the- did he just change? Masaki stepped back. TouTetsuOh, come! Masaki yelled. His gauntlet glowed, he quickly dashed forward and delivered an open palm downward punch. Anastas stepped to the side reading Masaki telegraphed attack. But after that Masaki snapped in with an elbow hitting him in the head.The dazed Anastas tried to regain his senses as a lightning fast punch hit his chest.
Being knocked back slightly Anastas struggled to find his stance, but stabbing his dagger down he stabilized himself. Anastas couldn’t deal with that kind of assault again. Sheathing his daggers he took out his bow and aimed for Masaki.
The arrow flew true, but Masaki was able to narrowly dodge it. Seeing that Anastas knocked back another arrow, Masaki grinned. He immediately rushed back to the front of Anastas to deliver an open palm punch. Masaki attempted to close the distance, but before he did Anastas pulled back another arrow and shot it at close range. The blow knocked back Masaki a bit making his attack go off target.
“Getting complacent now, are we?” taunted Anastas staring down Masaki. He could feel his own limit was close, but he wasn’t about to lose this fight. But as he tried to keep in control his breathing became ragged and his naturally brown hair began to change to a snow white. Anastas was becoming unstable. Dropping his bow, he slowly grabbed his daggers and fell into a feral stance.
Owain’s eyes widened, realising what was happening. He diverted the energy Nimue provides into his armour, feeling the water heating up and turning into steam, he began to rush in to stop Anastas tearing Masaki apart.
Razta looked on in surprise. He had seen this happen before, but not to someone that spent most of their time in the divine lands. This was usually due to an imbalance somewhere along the growing process. That was what he learned from the elder.
Owain stood in front of the readied Anastas, his shield between the two. Anastas ran at Owain who was in the way of his prey, but in his beastial state Owain had no problem reading his movements. Blocking the incoming attack he used his shield to swat Anastas to the side. Razta dashed in and restrained him.
Owain walked over to the now restrained Anastas. “If you can’t control it, you’re nothing but a liability”
His words were lost on Anastas who just tried to break free from Razta’s grasp. Reymond walked up flipping through his book. “Allow me.” he said as his book began to glow. Raising his hand to Anasta’s face he muttered a few quiet incantations.
”. . .What just happened?” Masaki stood up and looked at Anastas who was being restrained by Razta. Confused on what just happened, he asked his spirit, What’s wrong with him, TouTetsuOh? His spirit answered, Just something that happens to people who †˜become one’ with their spirit without a medium. As in getting in raw. Masaki was still confused with his spirit’s answer. He focused his attention to the restrained Anastas.
“This man suffers from something many hybrids do.” said Reymond as a white aura emitted from his hand calming Demyan. “An over synchronization between spirit and host.” Anastas came to his senses and relaxed. Turning to Owain pleaded to him on Anastas’ behalf. “This man won’t be a problem as long as he maintains control, and we need an experienced archer. The man’s skills are not to be ignored.”
“Ugh, I’ve done it again.” he said as he began to straighten himself up. Turning his head to Razta, he showed that he was in control again, and Razta released him. Free to move, Anastas brushed off the dust on his coat. He had experienced this plenty of times and his attitude towards it was rather aloof.
“If that happens again, and it really is one of my troops’ lives on the line, I won’t hesitate cut you down” Owain said, leaning in close to Anastas.
“Hmph, if you say so captain” he responded. He knew the man wasn’t joking around, but he knew that there wasn’t much he could do if push came to shove. Still, he felt that some of this rage was unwarranted. Dismissing himself from Owain, he picked up his bow and gave a brief and somewhat sincere apology to Masaki. “Sorry you had your fun ruined like that.”
“So that’s what happens if you can’t control the synchronization,huh” Ari muttered to herself. “Hey Gaius, is that why you didn’t let me try that before?”. “Yes, without a proper teacher accomplishing it by yourself is difficult.” “I see. Well not like it matters now summoning Gai and Terra is more fun.”
Suddenly Kreig walked out to the training area. “Get yourselves together we are heading out.” ordered Krieg looking around. He could tell something happened, but it appeared to be resolved.
“Sir!” Owain responded in compliance. Turning to his new unit he in turn gave an order, “grab your weapons and courage, we’re heading out now. Steel yourselves” The group gathered themselves, and even though there were issues in the group they were aware of what was needed to be done. As they headed out with the other groups they wondered just what was waiting for them during this training exercise.
0
BlinkXPoke
Cards and Hugs abound
(This is a Joint Post starring: TheLoneGentleman and BlinkXPoke)
Soul walked the halls of the Castle looking for any prey that might have managed to sneak away and hide. This was one of his favorite games to play. As he walked in one room he felt something stir behind the bed. Smirking, he made a bet with his spirit for his right arm. The arm itched like crazy for a moment before growing large and grotesque. As it expanded a claw stretched out. Soul drooled a bit, and walked closer to to the bed. Suddenly from under the bed a woman jumped out, and made a dash for the door. Soul reached out and tried to grab her with the claw, but he missed her by an inch. The dress she was wearing caught on his claw and shredded at the bottom. As he moved to follow her he heard a whistling sound followed by a splat and a thud.
As Soul walked out of the room he was greeted by Marian and Sonya. “Have you not the smallest sense of decency?” asked Marian as she looked at his claw. Bitch of shredded dress decorated it. “Hey, for once, its not what you think. I was going to kill her this time I swear.” he said changing his arm back to normal. The pieces of her dress fell to the floor.
“Sure you were.” answered Marian sarcastically. “I’m only glad I was here to give her a swift end.”
“Ooooooh, nice throw, Marian.” Sonya said, impressed, as she looked upon the corpse of the woman. “Wasn’t that Soul’s job, though?” She asked, as Soul had mentioned that he was about to do it, himself.
“See, you just ruin all the fun Marian.” answered Soul. “Where is your trust?”
“There is none left for you, Soul, but, please, Sonya, there is still hope for you.” Marian pleaded. “Don’t listen to this idiot.” Marian walked away to tend to other issues.
“Suuuuuuure~” Sonya simply agreed with Marian. She would usually side with Soul on the issue of fun, but she wanted to be helpful in the military, especially after her depressing blunder during the last battle. People were impressed by her performance during the attack, but she was upset with herself for not being able to help the members of her team survive. It was somewhat hard for Sonya to deal with their deaths, as she had become quite friendly with them before that battle.
“So, how was it seeing that weapon in action? Dahlem really outdid herself.” said Soul, looking at how empty the castle was. “This all was taken out in a matter of hours. “
“It was…” Sonya couldn’t find the right words to accurately describe how she felt about it. “It was… It seemed… effective!” She tried to say with a smile. For one, she hadn’t actually seen how the †˜weapon’ within the boy worked, just that it consumed him afterward. And secondly, as was just stated, it cost the young boy his life. She wasn’t sure how she should feel about that. Sonya tried to think positively, and assumed that the boy knew of his fate, and was proud to serve his country proudly.
He could tell that Sonya had some doubts still. He knew that the weapon was not the type of thing many people could readily accept. Luckily, it wasn’t knowledge that was readily known to the public. The people that were used were prisoners of war or kids with no parents. Soul saw it as an effective use of resources. “We still have more of the castle to clear. Want to tag along?” asked Soul changing the subject.
“Yeah, let’s do it!” Sonya gave a genuine smile, relieved that they could stop talking about such a sad subject. “This is suuuuuch a big castle, though… How will we know if we found all of the leftover people?” She wondered out loud.
“But that makes it all the more fun.” answered Soul. “Each person we find is another person to play with.” Soul smiled treating Sonya like she was child. He considered her his pupil, and would make sure to teach her about how to have fun in life.
“I can’t wait! Let’s enjoy ourselves!” Sonya giggled innocently, contrary to the activity they were about to partake in. The two cleared up the rest of the castle clearing out every room on the way. But sadly that maid was the only one that survived the initial onslaught. Instead the two had fun sharing stories of their pasts. Soul had a new appreciation for his disciple. Where before she was just another body to throw out to the battlefield, he now saw potential for a fine soldier.
Soul walked the halls of the Castle looking for any prey that might have managed to sneak away and hide. This was one of his favorite games to play. As he walked in one room he felt something stir behind the bed. Smirking, he made a bet with his spirit for his right arm. The arm itched like crazy for a moment before growing large and grotesque. As it expanded a claw stretched out. Soul drooled a bit, and walked closer to to the bed. Suddenly from under the bed a woman jumped out, and made a dash for the door. Soul reached out and tried to grab her with the claw, but he missed her by an inch. The dress she was wearing caught on his claw and shredded at the bottom. As he moved to follow her he heard a whistling sound followed by a splat and a thud.
As Soul walked out of the room he was greeted by Marian and Sonya. “Have you not the smallest sense of decency?” asked Marian as she looked at his claw. Bitch of shredded dress decorated it. “Hey, for once, its not what you think. I was going to kill her this time I swear.” he said changing his arm back to normal. The pieces of her dress fell to the floor.
“Sure you were.” answered Marian sarcastically. “I’m only glad I was here to give her a swift end.”
“Ooooooh, nice throw, Marian.” Sonya said, impressed, as she looked upon the corpse of the woman. “Wasn’t that Soul’s job, though?” She asked, as Soul had mentioned that he was about to do it, himself.
“See, you just ruin all the fun Marian.” answered Soul. “Where is your trust?”
“There is none left for you, Soul, but, please, Sonya, there is still hope for you.” Marian pleaded. “Don’t listen to this idiot.” Marian walked away to tend to other issues.
“Suuuuuuure~” Sonya simply agreed with Marian. She would usually side with Soul on the issue of fun, but she wanted to be helpful in the military, especially after her depressing blunder during the last battle. People were impressed by her performance during the attack, but she was upset with herself for not being able to help the members of her team survive. It was somewhat hard for Sonya to deal with their deaths, as she had become quite friendly with them before that battle.
“So, how was it seeing that weapon in action? Dahlem really outdid herself.” said Soul, looking at how empty the castle was. “This all was taken out in a matter of hours. “
“It was…” Sonya couldn’t find the right words to accurately describe how she felt about it. “It was… It seemed… effective!” She tried to say with a smile. For one, she hadn’t actually seen how the †˜weapon’ within the boy worked, just that it consumed him afterward. And secondly, as was just stated, it cost the young boy his life. She wasn’t sure how she should feel about that. Sonya tried to think positively, and assumed that the boy knew of his fate, and was proud to serve his country proudly.
He could tell that Sonya had some doubts still. He knew that the weapon was not the type of thing many people could readily accept. Luckily, it wasn’t knowledge that was readily known to the public. The people that were used were prisoners of war or kids with no parents. Soul saw it as an effective use of resources. “We still have more of the castle to clear. Want to tag along?” asked Soul changing the subject.
“Yeah, let’s do it!” Sonya gave a genuine smile, relieved that they could stop talking about such a sad subject. “This is suuuuuch a big castle, though… How will we know if we found all of the leftover people?” She wondered out loud.
“But that makes it all the more fun.” answered Soul. “Each person we find is another person to play with.” Soul smiled treating Sonya like she was child. He considered her his pupil, and would make sure to teach her about how to have fun in life.
“I can’t wait! Let’s enjoy ourselves!” Sonya giggled innocently, contrary to the activity they were about to partake in. The two cleared up the rest of the castle clearing out every room on the way. But sadly that maid was the only one that survived the initial onslaught. Instead the two had fun sharing stories of their pasts. Soul had a new appreciation for his disciple. Where before she was just another body to throw out to the battlefield, he now saw potential for a fine soldier.
0
(This is a Joint Post between: nooby2 and TheLoneGentleman)
Touring her prison was always a pleasant experience. Nothing gave her as much pleasure as seeing that her prisoners were stressed, miserable, and hopeless. Many of the people that were imprisoned there were innocent men and women. Just somewhere along the lines that pissed off someone in a powerful position, and as long as she was being paid on time thats where they were going to stay. After walking around the various hallways, and passages she made her way to the central tower, and her office. On her desk was a pile of letters, but one in particular caught her attention. It was from her nephew Selanus:
“Hey Aunt! How’s Raksana, not like it ever changes? Coming back now from a successful capture, quarry missing his right foot. Didn’t have it in me to let him come back without a flesh wound. Will be arriving shortly, could you get some of that roast I love ready? Your most lovable nephew, Selanus.”
“This clown,” she said smirking. As he requested she would have the chefs prepare a dinner for him upon his return. The smell of the chefs making such excellent food would be sure to have the prisoner’s mouths watering. Placing the opened letter on her desk she moved on to her other mail. The next one was wrapped in a seal that only opened for a specific password. “Vereor Nox” she whispered as the seal faded away. Opening the envelope she read it carefully as it was also encrypted. Narrowing her eyes she smirked. “Its about time.” she said placing the letter over a flame after she remembered everything on it.
Suddenly a guard approached her, salute then bowed. “Your nephew has arrived with your prize.” said the guard. She smiled and turned to him. “Perfect timing, I will go meet him.” she said. “Oh, and tell the chefs that tonight I want roast.”
The fortress loomed above him as Selanus traversed the chasm, an imposing structure unchanged with the passing of time. Stronghold Raskana, a place where many found only despair and agony. To Selanus, it was home. He tugged harder on his quarry as he dragged the body on the ground, anxious to meet his aunt. The man squirmed in his bonds, innumerable cuts and bruises on his face and body evidence that he was dragged like this the entire journey back. No matter, it would all be over for him soon anyway. He smiled widely as he saw his aunt at the entrance, the guards saluting him as he approached.
“I’m home and I got you a present~” He hefted the quarry and flung him to the ground near the guards, the man coughing and gasping from the treatment. “It’s good to be back here. Did you cook the roast yourself this time, auntie?” He asked cheekily as he walked towards Kristina.
“You know I can’t cook,” she said chuckling. As she approached she gave him a light hug. “ Anything I would cook would be sure to make you sick.” She never took the time to learn, and instead focused on her work. In the end she found she made the right choice. She was in no rush to impress a husband anyways. “Take that man to be registered in the system.” she ordered the guards. They took the man away as Kristina and Selanus walked up to her office.
“It’d be nice if you did try and learn, even if it’s just for me,” Selanus said in jest, shrugging. “This hunt was too easy, the target didn’t even get very far. Astaroth’s been nagging at me the whole time to go find some better prey.” He closed the door to the office behind them, dropping into one of her plush armchairs. “Ahhh, so much better than sleeping in the wilds… So, what’s next?” He knew she wouldn’t disappoint.
“Well you are in luck,” she started as the continued along the hallways. “We have found something that has been bothering me for quite some time. The child that was able to escape these walls, and make his way to the Forests of Origin. He goes by the last name Sonneillon now, and has hidden himself in the Divine army.” She grabbed the most recent photo of Razta she had, and handed it to Selanus. It was from a year before. “This is your target.” she said.
He scrutinized the photo as soon as he received it, carving Razta’s visage into his memory. “Mmm, he’s gotta be quite special, evading you for so long. Any places for me to start? I hear the war down at Raltese is heating up, think he’s there?” He put the photo away, already feeling Astaroth getting excited.
“The skirmish in Raltese, will be over in little less than a day if they use my weapons,” she said smirking. “That is the reason that Razta has been left unchecked as well however. He is the first of my experiments with the collars. Though having removed the device he has had no side effects. This is not normal. Either that boy is a ticking time bomb or his spirit consumed the devices energy. Either way I want him for further examination. So this is one I need alive at any cost.”
Selanus grimaced at the mention of her “weapons”, “Geh… Those things. They’re actually using those down in Raltese? Anyway, this should be good. I’ll probably need a team with me if he’s travelling with the Army, he’s bound to have companions with him.” He waved a hand in the air lazily, the action belying his rising interest in his new assignment. “And you want him alive…? That’s going to be quite a challenge, I can still cut him up a bit right?” Smirking, his eyes began to shimmer as Astaroth tried to force her way in. “She won’t be happy if I don’t let her have any fun.”
“As long as most of the pieces are there, and he is still breathing you can do as you please.“ she answered. “Something you should worry about is a long fight with him. He will have more spiritual energy than you are accustomed to...Finish it quickly. If you find him too difficult to handle don’t be afraid to abandon the mission. I need you alive.”
“Well if you’re worried about me losing then he’s really has to be special. Hahahahaha!!” He let the mirth show on his face, anticipating the fight way before it was due. “Alright. I know my own limits and pushing them tends to end badly for me with Astaroth around. And since you miss me sooooo much, I’ll make it a point to come back if I can’t handle him. He’ll be good prey if he manages to rout me.”
“I’m glad you are optimistic about this.” she said laughing. “Though I miss my time spent on the battlefield…” Remembering the old days was something she did often. “We can only hope that the Scion somehow make it here. They are sure to get quite the welcoming party.” Moments later a man in red and black butler attire stepped in. “Dinner is completed Warden,” he said with a salute and bow.
“Excellent! Let’s eat nephew. I don’t think I have even eaten today.” she said chuckling.
“I can always count on you for the best, be it food or entertainment!” He rose with a hearty laugh, eager to feast with his aunt after days of rations. “And I think you’d be fine outside for a while or two, if Chief or former Rep did need your services. The prison can run itself just fine and the guards know what’ll happen from the former debacle.” Those memories were irreplaceable to him, without them, he’d never be where he was now. “Thanks to that though, I’m serving you. Haha~”
“That is what family is supposed to be for.” she answered. “On that note have you spoken with my bone-head of a brother lately? The man doesn't even write me.” She was sure he was probably busy forcing his will onto his children, and forcing them on a path neither wanted to go on. Kristina was happy to save atleast Selanus from that type of life. “But I get anxious when I think of leaving these walls at times. I feel that if I leave something will go wrong. Hopefully that feeling leaves me soon.”
“I don’t need family if they’re going to be like him. I suppose he’s doing alright, brother keeps me updated on what’s happening on the homefront. Father’s getting caught up in the war though, believes its going to be bring him “prestige”.” Scoffing, he continued. “You run a tight ship here, anyone else would have it hard trying to maintain the same level of discipline. Or fear.” He added as an afterthought. Selanus was always more than willing to help his aunt, it was she who helped awaken him and there was nothing he could do to repay her for it. “I’d like to see what the commander of the Divine Army is like that, hopefully it’s the famous “Dragon of the North.” He snickered, putting an arm around his aunt’s shoulders. “Don’t worry so much, you’ll get crows feet if you do. Can’t look intimidating with those, can ye?”
Kristina laughed. “I don’t know I’ve seen plenty of scary wrinkled ladies in my time.” said Kristina. “But I don’t plan on aging any faster than I need too.”[/b]
“All in good time I suppose. And about the weapons being deployed at Raltese, You want me to check on how well they effective they were for you? Lab results are good but I’m sure you’ll want a review of how they did in the field.” Selanus waited for Kristina to take her seat before moving to his, taking in the spread of roasted cuts and meat before him. “You never fail to spoil me rotten, you know that?” He served his aunt before himself, cutting a slice of the best portion for her. “Well, I’ll ask Chief Rep Soul for this thoughts on the matter, if only to see him in person.”
As she sat at the table she thought of how her weapons probably performed. “Well the report from Marian will arrive shortly after, but a third opinion never hurt.” she said as he looked over the food as it was placed in front of them.
Already beginning to dig in, Selanus had to struggle not to bite off more than he could chew. “Marian? Former Chief’s with them too? I thought Chief Soul would have been more than enough for Raltese.” Mumbling, he added. “Wouldn’t hurt to see the weapon for myself I suppose. Never really liked the idea of using humans, even if they’re prisoners.” He stopped there, unwilling to displease his aunt with his own views.
“I’ve tried it on animals, but the sad truth that is the residual spirit energy they have isn't strong enough for the device. And since their language is different we can’t issue commands. Perhaps one of those Origin hunters would know how too, but they won’t readily teach us to talk to animals.” she answered happy to talk about her invention.
Smiling weakly, Selanus didn’t want to ask further. If she was pleased then so would he. “Well, it takes time to travel and I don’t assume you’ve already got a team assembled? I’ll probably take rest time before heading out. I’ve got some things to clean up in my room as well.”
“Well since you asked for assistance I advise you head to Raltese with two of my troops. I’m sure that the Divine will attempt to to retake the city, and if Razta is there you can pick him up in the chaos.” she said. “If not you can simply gather intel.”
“Very well. I could spare a little more to form a veil but two is good. Too many would weigh me down anyway. I’ll be careful, don’t want to disturb the hornets nest before I’m good and ready. Also, I’ll see if the main army would be willing to help if I required more support.” He refilled his aunts plate. “Now enough of this talk about work and eat, work’s good and all but you need to let loose once in awhile too. Anything happen while I was away, hmm?” Kristina and Selanus had a nice family dinner, and after which she showed him a collar and how it works. It would be necessary for him to know at least a little to give an accurate description of its field effectiveness. After she drowned him in information he hugged his aunt and headed off to his room to go through some things.
Touring her prison was always a pleasant experience. Nothing gave her as much pleasure as seeing that her prisoners were stressed, miserable, and hopeless. Many of the people that were imprisoned there were innocent men and women. Just somewhere along the lines that pissed off someone in a powerful position, and as long as she was being paid on time thats where they were going to stay. After walking around the various hallways, and passages she made her way to the central tower, and her office. On her desk was a pile of letters, but one in particular caught her attention. It was from her nephew Selanus:
“Hey Aunt! How’s Raksana, not like it ever changes? Coming back now from a successful capture, quarry missing his right foot. Didn’t have it in me to let him come back without a flesh wound. Will be arriving shortly, could you get some of that roast I love ready? Your most lovable nephew, Selanus.”
“This clown,” she said smirking. As he requested she would have the chefs prepare a dinner for him upon his return. The smell of the chefs making such excellent food would be sure to have the prisoner’s mouths watering. Placing the opened letter on her desk she moved on to her other mail. The next one was wrapped in a seal that only opened for a specific password. “Vereor Nox” she whispered as the seal faded away. Opening the envelope she read it carefully as it was also encrypted. Narrowing her eyes she smirked. “Its about time.” she said placing the letter over a flame after she remembered everything on it.
Suddenly a guard approached her, salute then bowed. “Your nephew has arrived with your prize.” said the guard. She smiled and turned to him. “Perfect timing, I will go meet him.” she said. “Oh, and tell the chefs that tonight I want roast.”
The fortress loomed above him as Selanus traversed the chasm, an imposing structure unchanged with the passing of time. Stronghold Raskana, a place where many found only despair and agony. To Selanus, it was home. He tugged harder on his quarry as he dragged the body on the ground, anxious to meet his aunt. The man squirmed in his bonds, innumerable cuts and bruises on his face and body evidence that he was dragged like this the entire journey back. No matter, it would all be over for him soon anyway. He smiled widely as he saw his aunt at the entrance, the guards saluting him as he approached.
“I’m home and I got you a present~” He hefted the quarry and flung him to the ground near the guards, the man coughing and gasping from the treatment. “It’s good to be back here. Did you cook the roast yourself this time, auntie?” He asked cheekily as he walked towards Kristina.
“You know I can’t cook,” she said chuckling. As she approached she gave him a light hug. “ Anything I would cook would be sure to make you sick.” She never took the time to learn, and instead focused on her work. In the end she found she made the right choice. She was in no rush to impress a husband anyways. “Take that man to be registered in the system.” she ordered the guards. They took the man away as Kristina and Selanus walked up to her office.
“It’d be nice if you did try and learn, even if it’s just for me,” Selanus said in jest, shrugging. “This hunt was too easy, the target didn’t even get very far. Astaroth’s been nagging at me the whole time to go find some better prey.” He closed the door to the office behind them, dropping into one of her plush armchairs. “Ahhh, so much better than sleeping in the wilds… So, what’s next?” He knew she wouldn’t disappoint.
“Well you are in luck,” she started as the continued along the hallways. “We have found something that has been bothering me for quite some time. The child that was able to escape these walls, and make his way to the Forests of Origin. He goes by the last name Sonneillon now, and has hidden himself in the Divine army.” She grabbed the most recent photo of Razta she had, and handed it to Selanus. It was from a year before. “This is your target.” she said.
He scrutinized the photo as soon as he received it, carving Razta’s visage into his memory. “Mmm, he’s gotta be quite special, evading you for so long. Any places for me to start? I hear the war down at Raltese is heating up, think he’s there?” He put the photo away, already feeling Astaroth getting excited.
“The skirmish in Raltese, will be over in little less than a day if they use my weapons,” she said smirking. “That is the reason that Razta has been left unchecked as well however. He is the first of my experiments with the collars. Though having removed the device he has had no side effects. This is not normal. Either that boy is a ticking time bomb or his spirit consumed the devices energy. Either way I want him for further examination. So this is one I need alive at any cost.”
Selanus grimaced at the mention of her “weapons”, “Geh… Those things. They’re actually using those down in Raltese? Anyway, this should be good. I’ll probably need a team with me if he’s travelling with the Army, he’s bound to have companions with him.” He waved a hand in the air lazily, the action belying his rising interest in his new assignment. “And you want him alive…? That’s going to be quite a challenge, I can still cut him up a bit right?” Smirking, his eyes began to shimmer as Astaroth tried to force her way in. “She won’t be happy if I don’t let her have any fun.”
“As long as most of the pieces are there, and he is still breathing you can do as you please.“ she answered. “Something you should worry about is a long fight with him. He will have more spiritual energy than you are accustomed to...Finish it quickly. If you find him too difficult to handle don’t be afraid to abandon the mission. I need you alive.”
“Well if you’re worried about me losing then he’s really has to be special. Hahahahaha!!” He let the mirth show on his face, anticipating the fight way before it was due. “Alright. I know my own limits and pushing them tends to end badly for me with Astaroth around. And since you miss me sooooo much, I’ll make it a point to come back if I can’t handle him. He’ll be good prey if he manages to rout me.”
“I’m glad you are optimistic about this.” she said laughing. “Though I miss my time spent on the battlefield…” Remembering the old days was something she did often. “We can only hope that the Scion somehow make it here. They are sure to get quite the welcoming party.” Moments later a man in red and black butler attire stepped in. “Dinner is completed Warden,” he said with a salute and bow.
“Excellent! Let’s eat nephew. I don’t think I have even eaten today.” she said chuckling.
“I can always count on you for the best, be it food or entertainment!” He rose with a hearty laugh, eager to feast with his aunt after days of rations. “And I think you’d be fine outside for a while or two, if Chief or former Rep did need your services. The prison can run itself just fine and the guards know what’ll happen from the former debacle.” Those memories were irreplaceable to him, without them, he’d never be where he was now. “Thanks to that though, I’m serving you. Haha~”
“That is what family is supposed to be for.” she answered. “On that note have you spoken with my bone-head of a brother lately? The man doesn't even write me.” She was sure he was probably busy forcing his will onto his children, and forcing them on a path neither wanted to go on. Kristina was happy to save atleast Selanus from that type of life. “But I get anxious when I think of leaving these walls at times. I feel that if I leave something will go wrong. Hopefully that feeling leaves me soon.”
“I don’t need family if they’re going to be like him. I suppose he’s doing alright, brother keeps me updated on what’s happening on the homefront. Father’s getting caught up in the war though, believes its going to be bring him “prestige”.” Scoffing, he continued. “You run a tight ship here, anyone else would have it hard trying to maintain the same level of discipline. Or fear.” He added as an afterthought. Selanus was always more than willing to help his aunt, it was she who helped awaken him and there was nothing he could do to repay her for it. “I’d like to see what the commander of the Divine Army is like that, hopefully it’s the famous “Dragon of the North.” He snickered, putting an arm around his aunt’s shoulders. “Don’t worry so much, you’ll get crows feet if you do. Can’t look intimidating with those, can ye?”
Kristina laughed. “I don’t know I’ve seen plenty of scary wrinkled ladies in my time.” said Kristina. “But I don’t plan on aging any faster than I need too.”[/b]
“All in good time I suppose. And about the weapons being deployed at Raltese, You want me to check on how well they effective they were for you? Lab results are good but I’m sure you’ll want a review of how they did in the field.” Selanus waited for Kristina to take her seat before moving to his, taking in the spread of roasted cuts and meat before him. “You never fail to spoil me rotten, you know that?” He served his aunt before himself, cutting a slice of the best portion for her. “Well, I’ll ask Chief Rep Soul for this thoughts on the matter, if only to see him in person.”
As she sat at the table she thought of how her weapons probably performed. “Well the report from Marian will arrive shortly after, but a third opinion never hurt.” she said as he looked over the food as it was placed in front of them.
Already beginning to dig in, Selanus had to struggle not to bite off more than he could chew. “Marian? Former Chief’s with them too? I thought Chief Soul would have been more than enough for Raltese.” Mumbling, he added. “Wouldn’t hurt to see the weapon for myself I suppose. Never really liked the idea of using humans, even if they’re prisoners.” He stopped there, unwilling to displease his aunt with his own views.
“I’ve tried it on animals, but the sad truth that is the residual spirit energy they have isn't strong enough for the device. And since their language is different we can’t issue commands. Perhaps one of those Origin hunters would know how too, but they won’t readily teach us to talk to animals.” she answered happy to talk about her invention.
Smiling weakly, Selanus didn’t want to ask further. If she was pleased then so would he. “Well, it takes time to travel and I don’t assume you’ve already got a team assembled? I’ll probably take rest time before heading out. I’ve got some things to clean up in my room as well.”
“Well since you asked for assistance I advise you head to Raltese with two of my troops. I’m sure that the Divine will attempt to to retake the city, and if Razta is there you can pick him up in the chaos.” she said. “If not you can simply gather intel.”
“Very well. I could spare a little more to form a veil but two is good. Too many would weigh me down anyway. I’ll be careful, don’t want to disturb the hornets nest before I’m good and ready. Also, I’ll see if the main army would be willing to help if I required more support.” He refilled his aunts plate. “Now enough of this talk about work and eat, work’s good and all but you need to let loose once in awhile too. Anything happen while I was away, hmm?” Kristina and Selanus had a nice family dinner, and after which she showed him a collar and how it works. It would be necessary for him to know at least a little to give an accurate description of its field effectiveness. After she drowned him in information he hugged his aunt and headed off to his room to go through some things.
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[size=15]In the next month...[/h]
The training that Arkasia developed for the groups would prove too much for some, but for the ones that made it through, it was an exercise that helped bring them together as a team. Owain and his group were brought out to one of the harder locations to make it back from. However Owain was confident that they would have little trouble even with this handicap. This only meant that Kreig had confidence in their abilities, and with the will to prove Arkasia wrong fueling him, he was not about to disappoint. His knowledge of the mountain kept the group on a proper path. Razta and the others followed orders the best they could, but at the end of the first day they still hadn’t made their quota.
Anastas, Masaki, and Reymond made camp by clearing out a cave. Ari and Owain found firewood. While Razta and Adelina did some hunting. By the time night arrived Adelina and Razta had come back with a large haul of ice boar, and snow rabbits. Razta was even able to find some herbs they could use for cooking near a hot spring.
“You found a hot spring?!” shouted Ari.
“It was actually quite nice.” answered Adelina. “Razta talked me into trying it.”
“I did? As I remember you just ran, and jumped into it. I barely had time to look away when you undressed” replied Razta blushing slightly.
“You must be mistaken.” said Adelina clearing her throat.
Ari pouted with jealousy as she thought of how luxurious it must have been to relax in a hot spring. Though she didn’t know what to make of Razta being there as well. Her and Owain found lots of firewood, but they didn’t run into any treasures as nice at that. She wouldn’t trust Owain not to peek even if they did.
“Razta you dog you. I didn’t know you were such a smooth talker.” teased Owain. “I must be rubbing off on you.”
Adelina blushed. “Is it possible to enjoy a hot spring without being labeled a sleeze?” she responded. “Razta was a proper gentleman and waited his turn far away.”
“Are you so sure? Razta is a hunter after all. He could have been there right under your nose.” said Reymond laughing.
“I have no death wishes Reymond.” said Razta remembering how Adelina reactied during the simple training match.
“Good” said Adelina as she walked across the cave dropping the boars next to the fire. Razta walked over with his bag of rabbits and set it down. They had four large boars, and around fourteen rabbits. Owain wasn’t done asking about that hot spring visit however.
Anastas, to the surprise of many of the group, began to prepare the boars and rabbits for cooking. Razta was just glad that he had another hand in preparing the meal. Taking his knife he skined the animals while Anastas took to gutting them with his knife. The two worked as a team, and before long a small feast was made.
“This is amazing,” said Ari biting into some rabbit. “Where did you guys learn to cook?”
“Living on your own you have to learn to do a few things for yourself.” answered Anastas. He was finding himself becoming comfortable around most of the group, but Owain was still a wild card to him, but right now Owain was busy with something else.
Secretly to the side he ambushed Razta. “So were they big or what?”
“I don’t know I have seen bigger boars than this.” he answered.
“Don’t play dumb. She keeps them under that armor so I can’t tell. Give me somthing man!” said Owain a bit too loud as he bit into some nicely cooked boar. Suddenly he felt something hard hit the back of his head, and he blacked out falling asleep.
The next morning Razta and Anastas found themselves surrounded by people. As hosts of two fire spirits they were almost a viable heat source. They two shared a laugh as they woke up before everyone else, but soon after they began to move around the rest woke up. Owain, who had been knocked out by a surprise attack from Adelina, woke up with a massive headache. Adelina had no sympathy for him, and ignored him.
Groggy, Owain rose to his feet. “Alright gather what supplies we didn’t use, and lets head out.” ordered Owain. Masaki and Razta gathered the food, and put it in their packs. Adelina took what was left of the fire wood. “All set.” said Masaki. Owain smiled after his head stopped hurting. “We are getting there by the end of this week or I am turning in my sword!” announced Owain. There was little chance of them getting there in even two weeks, but Owain seemed to have a plan. For some reason Owain’s mood made the others feel like it was actually possible, and morale increased.
“Yes sIr!” shouted the group except for Anastas.
†˜What did I get myself into?’ thought Anastas as he quickened his pace to catch up with the others.
To the surprised of Kreig, and some of the smaller groups that were placed closer to the castle, the group made it back before many others. “I told you we would make it back in a week!” said Owain to his group as they entered the castle. Ari, Adelina, and Reymond were exhausted. The others however were surprised that it wasn’t harder than it was.
“Good work. I see that I should have given you more of a challenge.” said Kreig laughing. Ari shuddered at the thought. There were no showers apart from water they brought, and it wasn’t enough to truly feel clean. She hated Adelina and Razta for even having a day at that hot spring.
“Until the other groups make it back you are on standby.” said Kreig smiling. Owain caught a glimpse of Arkasia walking by and his mood darkened.
“Yes Sir,” Owain said deciding to head back to his quarters. The others decided to talk amongst themselves, but soon after decided a little rest was a good idea.
Louise was annoyed with all the rituals she had to go through when she had already done them time and time before. After a week of preparations and tests she was more than fed up. She knew that the shrine had their traditions, but they both knew that she was overqualified for the job. Though, she had to admit that it felt good to be back in her role as the high priestess. It was nostalgic. She reluctantly agreed to wear the white and gold ceremonial robes, but as soon as this was over she was going right back to her usual attire.
“You look very nice in that Louise,” said Leona III as she helped make sure that Louise looked perfect. She almost acted like a mother that was preparing her daughter to get married. Of course this wasn’t the case. Placing a white and gold mask on Louise she finished by pulling the ornate hood over her.
“This is still stupid. Why should we be forced to see with our spirit’s eyes when we have two of our own. I think its just an old tradition that should have died off ages ago.” said Louise adjusting her mask under her hood.
“It has been a symbol to show your mastery over your spirit for decades. I find it amusing when amateurs try it and stumble over things.” Leona said chuckling.
“Well lets just hurry and get this over with.” said Louise walking off with her usual pace. Nothing changed with her letting Ishtar guide her. She has been a master of her spiritual side for some time. Leona III followed behind her matching her pace.
As they walked into the statue room, they saw there were priestesses and monks lined up on both sides. They chanted in a low hymn setting the spiritual stage for Louise. Louise walked gracefully through the center aisle. With her level of spiritual attunement she was even to make out some of the chanter’s spirits. Most were weak, but others showed promise of being powerful spirits one day.
As she approached the statues the head priestess was holding a black and gold wand. There were runes engraved into it that Louise recognized immediately. Louise stood at the side of Rhea who was chanting rapidly gathering an extremely high amount of spiritual energy within herself. Bringing her wand to her chest she drew the power out and directed it towards Louise. Louise took the power, and condensed it before taking it into herself. It was a bit hard to control at first, but she soon overcame it and in a flash of light Istrar appeared in the mortal world. With a kind smile she took the pose of her statue, and blessed all those in the room with a song. After the song was complete she faded just as quickly as she came.
“We are blessed to have Ishtar with us again. I pray you will lead us to a new era of peace.” said Rhea bowing. The rest of the people in the shrine kneeled.
Louise thought for a moment with a sad expression. ’Yeah… she thought. “I will do all in my power to do so.” she answered with a forced happy tone.
“Then with this I declare you Louise Marguerite la Finé de Augusta our new high priestess. May this prove useful on your journey.” she said handing Louise the wand she was using. As Louise reached for it she could feel its power pulse through her.
“This is mine?” she asked.
“Yes it is a symbol of the high priestess. Along with that mask it commands respect from the other shrines and churches of the divine.” she answered. Taking the wand from her, Louise smiled. “Thank you.”
The ceremony went into a feast for Louise, and helped her to become acquainted with some of her more prominent shrine members. She would no doubt need to call on them from time to time. As Louise became busy with the others she noticed that her friend was no where to be found. Looking around she finally found her outside in the shrine’s garden.
“That boring?” asked Louise.
“Just not my type of party.” said Leona staring up at the moon. “Things are going to be boring without you here, but this is the best way. Let’s hope I don’t go insane in the meantime!” Leona laughed sipped some wine she took from the party.
“Yes lets hope…” answered Louise solemnly. She was worried about her friend, but she had her own things to take care of. She would have to hope her friend would hold up in the meantime.
The occupation of the City of Raltese was too quiet for Soul’s taste. Kristina’s weapons were so effective that most of the city was wiped out as well. Only a few citizens survived, and they were too shaken up to be of any use. It wasn’t until there was word of three figures approaching from the east that Soul began to get excited. Rushing off he wanted to be the first to welcome the poor unfortunate souls to Raltese. As he reached the the gate however he was surprised to see they were being allowed into the city. “Dammit just guests…” said Soul under his breath as he approached the group. As he closed in he recognized the figure. It was the nephew of Kristina, Selanus Dahlem.
“I wish you were an enemy, boy.” said Soul laughing.
“Sorry to disappoint. You that starved for blood Chief Soul?” answered Selanus.
Soul sighed loudly. “Starved does it no justice.” answered Soul.
“We’ll my aunt believes that the divine will come to attack this place soon. I have come to assist as well as run a few side errands for my aunt.” said Selanus.
“Of course she would never send you unless there was something else.” answered Soul. “Whatever she has planned is fine, but if she is hoping the divine come quickly she might be in for a wait.”
Suddenly another three figures walked through the gate. All wore hoods, but the soldiers they passed saluted in proper form, and stayed in stance until out of sight.
As one of them laid eyes on Soul she took off into a sprint. As she passed Selanus her hood flew off as blonde hair flew into the air. She threw herself at Soul, and held tightly onto his arm. The other two shook their heads in embarrassment.
“Nice to see you all made it back.” said Soul trying to shake the girl from his arm.
“You expected us to die?” said the black haired girl as she removed her hood.
“Ofcourse not Alma” answered the girl holding on to Soul’s arm. “Not with the plan from Marian.”
“I wasn’t asking you Charlotte.” responded Alma running her hand through her black hair..
The smaller girl with light blonde hair smiled. “I did a great job as well. The spirits acted just like they did in training!” she announced.
“I’m glad to hear that Emma.” responded Soul giving up on prying the girl from his arm.
Selanus looked on the scene in disbeleif. How these three girls got Rep. seats was beyond him. As he laughed to himself he looked down to see the shorter Rep. Emma in front of him pouting.
“Who you laughing at?!” she said. He took off his hat and bowed.
“No one m’am.” he answered.
“Good!” she answered walking off.
“Let’s get some rest. I’m tired from all that walking.” said Alma. “I’m sure Marian has a few choice words for us as well.”
“How about we just not go to Marian?” said Charlotte still gripping Soul’s arm.
“Do what you want.” said Alma. “I want to try and keep as much of my hair as I can.”Emma followed close behind as Alma walked off. The blonde holding on to Soul let go, and ran to keep up with the others.
“Fine! You guys are no fun you know that?” said Charlotte as the three headed for the castle, and their punishment. Soul moved his arm proud to be free. Soul was sure that those girls were in for hell once they got to the castle.
Sonya woke up to the sounds of maniacal laughter, and screaming. Getting out of bed she walked hesitantly to the door. Opening it she saw three women rush past. Scissors flew towards them, and one veered off course sticking in the door frame right next to Sonia’s face. Panicking she slammed the door, as she heard another set of feet rush past. “You all are completely useless!” yelled Marian. “I’m going to cut you all bald!”
Sonya protectively grabbed her hair as she heard this. †˜I will need to be very careful around Marian.’ she thought with a sigh.
The training that Arkasia developed for the groups would prove too much for some, but for the ones that made it through, it was an exercise that helped bring them together as a team. Owain and his group were brought out to one of the harder locations to make it back from. However Owain was confident that they would have little trouble even with this handicap. This only meant that Kreig had confidence in their abilities, and with the will to prove Arkasia wrong fueling him, he was not about to disappoint. His knowledge of the mountain kept the group on a proper path. Razta and the others followed orders the best they could, but at the end of the first day they still hadn’t made their quota.
Anastas, Masaki, and Reymond made camp by clearing out a cave. Ari and Owain found firewood. While Razta and Adelina did some hunting. By the time night arrived Adelina and Razta had come back with a large haul of ice boar, and snow rabbits. Razta was even able to find some herbs they could use for cooking near a hot spring.
“You found a hot spring?!” shouted Ari.
“It was actually quite nice.” answered Adelina. “Razta talked me into trying it.”
“I did? As I remember you just ran, and jumped into it. I barely had time to look away when you undressed” replied Razta blushing slightly.
“You must be mistaken.” said Adelina clearing her throat.
Ari pouted with jealousy as she thought of how luxurious it must have been to relax in a hot spring. Though she didn’t know what to make of Razta being there as well. Her and Owain found lots of firewood, but they didn’t run into any treasures as nice at that. She wouldn’t trust Owain not to peek even if they did.
“Razta you dog you. I didn’t know you were such a smooth talker.” teased Owain. “I must be rubbing off on you.”
Adelina blushed. “Is it possible to enjoy a hot spring without being labeled a sleeze?” she responded. “Razta was a proper gentleman and waited his turn far away.”
“Are you so sure? Razta is a hunter after all. He could have been there right under your nose.” said Reymond laughing.
“I have no death wishes Reymond.” said Razta remembering how Adelina reactied during the simple training match.
“Good” said Adelina as she walked across the cave dropping the boars next to the fire. Razta walked over with his bag of rabbits and set it down. They had four large boars, and around fourteen rabbits. Owain wasn’t done asking about that hot spring visit however.
Anastas, to the surprise of many of the group, began to prepare the boars and rabbits for cooking. Razta was just glad that he had another hand in preparing the meal. Taking his knife he skined the animals while Anastas took to gutting them with his knife. The two worked as a team, and before long a small feast was made.
“This is amazing,” said Ari biting into some rabbit. “Where did you guys learn to cook?”
“Living on your own you have to learn to do a few things for yourself.” answered Anastas. He was finding himself becoming comfortable around most of the group, but Owain was still a wild card to him, but right now Owain was busy with something else.
Secretly to the side he ambushed Razta. “So were they big or what?”
“I don’t know I have seen bigger boars than this.” he answered.
“Don’t play dumb. She keeps them under that armor so I can’t tell. Give me somthing man!” said Owain a bit too loud as he bit into some nicely cooked boar. Suddenly he felt something hard hit the back of his head, and he blacked out falling asleep.
The next morning Razta and Anastas found themselves surrounded by people. As hosts of two fire spirits they were almost a viable heat source. They two shared a laugh as they woke up before everyone else, but soon after they began to move around the rest woke up. Owain, who had been knocked out by a surprise attack from Adelina, woke up with a massive headache. Adelina had no sympathy for him, and ignored him.
Groggy, Owain rose to his feet. “Alright gather what supplies we didn’t use, and lets head out.” ordered Owain. Masaki and Razta gathered the food, and put it in their packs. Adelina took what was left of the fire wood. “All set.” said Masaki. Owain smiled after his head stopped hurting. “We are getting there by the end of this week or I am turning in my sword!” announced Owain. There was little chance of them getting there in even two weeks, but Owain seemed to have a plan. For some reason Owain’s mood made the others feel like it was actually possible, and morale increased.
“Yes sIr!” shouted the group except for Anastas.
†˜What did I get myself into?’ thought Anastas as he quickened his pace to catch up with the others.
To the surprised of Kreig, and some of the smaller groups that were placed closer to the castle, the group made it back before many others. “I told you we would make it back in a week!” said Owain to his group as they entered the castle. Ari, Adelina, and Reymond were exhausted. The others however were surprised that it wasn’t harder than it was.
“Good work. I see that I should have given you more of a challenge.” said Kreig laughing. Ari shuddered at the thought. There were no showers apart from water they brought, and it wasn’t enough to truly feel clean. She hated Adelina and Razta for even having a day at that hot spring.
“Until the other groups make it back you are on standby.” said Kreig smiling. Owain caught a glimpse of Arkasia walking by and his mood darkened.
“Yes Sir,” Owain said deciding to head back to his quarters. The others decided to talk amongst themselves, but soon after decided a little rest was a good idea.
Louise was annoyed with all the rituals she had to go through when she had already done them time and time before. After a week of preparations and tests she was more than fed up. She knew that the shrine had their traditions, but they both knew that she was overqualified for the job. Though, she had to admit that it felt good to be back in her role as the high priestess. It was nostalgic. She reluctantly agreed to wear the white and gold ceremonial robes, but as soon as this was over she was going right back to her usual attire.
“You look very nice in that Louise,” said Leona III as she helped make sure that Louise looked perfect. She almost acted like a mother that was preparing her daughter to get married. Of course this wasn’t the case. Placing a white and gold mask on Louise she finished by pulling the ornate hood over her.
“This is still stupid. Why should we be forced to see with our spirit’s eyes when we have two of our own. I think its just an old tradition that should have died off ages ago.” said Louise adjusting her mask under her hood.
“It has been a symbol to show your mastery over your spirit for decades. I find it amusing when amateurs try it and stumble over things.” Leona said chuckling.
“Well lets just hurry and get this over with.” said Louise walking off with her usual pace. Nothing changed with her letting Ishtar guide her. She has been a master of her spiritual side for some time. Leona III followed behind her matching her pace.
As they walked into the statue room, they saw there were priestesses and monks lined up on both sides. They chanted in a low hymn setting the spiritual stage for Louise. Louise walked gracefully through the center aisle. With her level of spiritual attunement she was even to make out some of the chanter’s spirits. Most were weak, but others showed promise of being powerful spirits one day.
As she approached the statues the head priestess was holding a black and gold wand. There were runes engraved into it that Louise recognized immediately. Louise stood at the side of Rhea who was chanting rapidly gathering an extremely high amount of spiritual energy within herself. Bringing her wand to her chest she drew the power out and directed it towards Louise. Louise took the power, and condensed it before taking it into herself. It was a bit hard to control at first, but she soon overcame it and in a flash of light Istrar appeared in the mortal world. With a kind smile she took the pose of her statue, and blessed all those in the room with a song. After the song was complete she faded just as quickly as she came.
“We are blessed to have Ishtar with us again. I pray you will lead us to a new era of peace.” said Rhea bowing. The rest of the people in the shrine kneeled.
Louise thought for a moment with a sad expression. ’Yeah… she thought. “I will do all in my power to do so.” she answered with a forced happy tone.
“Then with this I declare you Louise Marguerite la Finé de Augusta our new high priestess. May this prove useful on your journey.” she said handing Louise the wand she was using. As Louise reached for it she could feel its power pulse through her.
“This is mine?” she asked.
“Yes it is a symbol of the high priestess. Along with that mask it commands respect from the other shrines and churches of the divine.” she answered. Taking the wand from her, Louise smiled. “Thank you.”
The ceremony went into a feast for Louise, and helped her to become acquainted with some of her more prominent shrine members. She would no doubt need to call on them from time to time. As Louise became busy with the others she noticed that her friend was no where to be found. Looking around she finally found her outside in the shrine’s garden.
“That boring?” asked Louise.
“Just not my type of party.” said Leona staring up at the moon. “Things are going to be boring without you here, but this is the best way. Let’s hope I don’t go insane in the meantime!” Leona laughed sipped some wine she took from the party.
“Yes lets hope…” answered Louise solemnly. She was worried about her friend, but she had her own things to take care of. She would have to hope her friend would hold up in the meantime.
The occupation of the City of Raltese was too quiet for Soul’s taste. Kristina’s weapons were so effective that most of the city was wiped out as well. Only a few citizens survived, and they were too shaken up to be of any use. It wasn’t until there was word of three figures approaching from the east that Soul began to get excited. Rushing off he wanted to be the first to welcome the poor unfortunate souls to Raltese. As he reached the the gate however he was surprised to see they were being allowed into the city. “Dammit just guests…” said Soul under his breath as he approached the group. As he closed in he recognized the figure. It was the nephew of Kristina, Selanus Dahlem.
“I wish you were an enemy, boy.” said Soul laughing.
“Sorry to disappoint. You that starved for blood Chief Soul?” answered Selanus.
Soul sighed loudly. “Starved does it no justice.” answered Soul.
“We’ll my aunt believes that the divine will come to attack this place soon. I have come to assist as well as run a few side errands for my aunt.” said Selanus.
“Of course she would never send you unless there was something else.” answered Soul. “Whatever she has planned is fine, but if she is hoping the divine come quickly she might be in for a wait.”
Suddenly another three figures walked through the gate. All wore hoods, but the soldiers they passed saluted in proper form, and stayed in stance until out of sight.
As one of them laid eyes on Soul she took off into a sprint. As she passed Selanus her hood flew off as blonde hair flew into the air. She threw herself at Soul, and held tightly onto his arm. The other two shook their heads in embarrassment.
“Nice to see you all made it back.” said Soul trying to shake the girl from his arm.
“You expected us to die?” said the black haired girl as she removed her hood.
“Ofcourse not Alma” answered the girl holding on to Soul’s arm. “Not with the plan from Marian.”
“I wasn’t asking you Charlotte.” responded Alma running her hand through her black hair..
The smaller girl with light blonde hair smiled. “I did a great job as well. The spirits acted just like they did in training!” she announced.
“I’m glad to hear that Emma.” responded Soul giving up on prying the girl from his arm.
Selanus looked on the scene in disbeleif. How these three girls got Rep. seats was beyond him. As he laughed to himself he looked down to see the shorter Rep. Emma in front of him pouting.
“Who you laughing at?!” she said. He took off his hat and bowed.
“No one m’am.” he answered.
“Good!” she answered walking off.
“Let’s get some rest. I’m tired from all that walking.” said Alma. “I’m sure Marian has a few choice words for us as well.”
“How about we just not go to Marian?” said Charlotte still gripping Soul’s arm.
“Do what you want.” said Alma. “I want to try and keep as much of my hair as I can.”Emma followed close behind as Alma walked off. The blonde holding on to Soul let go, and ran to keep up with the others.
“Fine! You guys are no fun you know that?” said Charlotte as the three headed for the castle, and their punishment. Soul moved his arm proud to be free. Soul was sure that those girls were in for hell once they got to the castle.
Sonya woke up to the sounds of maniacal laughter, and screaming. Getting out of bed she walked hesitantly to the door. Opening it she saw three women rush past. Scissors flew towards them, and one veered off course sticking in the door frame right next to Sonia’s face. Panicking she slammed the door, as she heard another set of feet rush past. “You all are completely useless!” yelled Marian. “I’m going to cut you all bald!”
Sonya protectively grabbed her hair as she heard this. †˜I will need to be very careful around Marian.’ she thought with a sigh.
0
"How great. . ." Anastas thought to himself walking to his room. The time they spent in the mountains was refreshing but now he was stuck inside walls again, the drab grey of the stone emitted a dull, monotonous aura much like what he anticipated. "This is why I didn't join the army"
Letting out a heavy sigh, he opened the door to his room, his face went sour again. The lavish set up of his room made him uncomfortable, from the loud red carpet to portraits of people of apparent importance hanging on the walls. While he thought of this as over the top, his room was actually that of ones they gave to normal soldiers. "Nah, I'm not doing this again."
He quickly grabbed his pack from the room and left in hurry. The first and last time he spent the night in that room was before they left for the mountains and it did wonders at keeping him all night. However he admitted to himself that he'd like to wash since he had not done so since the capital. He shrugged, deciding he would visit the town.
Letting out a heavy sigh, he opened the door to his room, his face went sour again. The lavish set up of his room made him uncomfortable, from the loud red carpet to portraits of people of apparent importance hanging on the walls. While he thought of this as over the top, his room was actually that of ones they gave to normal soldiers. "Nah, I'm not doing this again."
He quickly grabbed his pack from the room and left in hurry. The first and last time he spent the night in that room was before they left for the mountains and it did wonders at keeping him all night. However he admitted to himself that he'd like to wash since he had not done so since the capital. He shrugged, deciding he would visit the town.
0
(This is a joint post starring: TheLoneGentleman and Katsucha)
The next morning was full of a more groups coming in. Most of them looked a lot worse off than Owain’s group, and some got lost for a few days before they were rounded up by the assist party. Having to get help wasn’t a good sign if you were planning to move up the ranks quickly. Some knights just didn’t have what it took to be leaders.
The training was going as expected, but Arkasia was surprised to hear that quite a few groups made it back earlier than expected. A name she was especially surprised to hear was Owain. With the way he was acting she expected him to lose his nerve and give up.
“So, Owain and his group made it back far ahead of their schedule?” said Arkasia. She had to admit that she was glad Owain wasn’t sitting sad in the gutter. She had hopes that he wouldn’t trash the faith she had in him. “You were right to place that group together. They worked well together.” said Krieg.
“I’m guessing you are suggesting I make it more of a permanent thing?” asked Arkasia. “I’ll have to talk to Owain about that. He makes the final decision. Ari can choose to stay with them if she wishes as well.”
“My thoughts exactly.” Krieg answered.
“Where is Owain now?” asked Arkasia.
“I believe he was training alone when I passed by the training ground earlier.” answered Krieg. Arkasia stood up grabbing her blades. “Guess I better get his opinion in person this time.”
Reymond was deeply studying his book. He was becoming more acquainted with his spiritual side, but he was still having trouble keeping it all under control. It was bad enough that he had to keep his book with him, and still had trouble with the most basic of his talents. He needed a teacher who at least knew the basics of maintaining a spell. Suddenly Ari walked past him, and he decided that perhaps she would know something on the matter.
“Dame Ari, do you have a moment?” asked Reymond snapping his book shut.
“Oh hello Reymond what is it?”
“When you create your golems. How do you keep them in form?” he asked. “I will try and apply this information to my own spells.”
”Oh that. Umm it’s kinda difficult to explain. But I guess I can try.” Ari said thinking the best way to explain it. ”Well first off I need to find a medium. Since my spirit is that of an earth spirit I need to use an earth medium to summon my golems. So as long as I’m near anything that comes from the earth I can create my golem. Though also have some kind of synchronization with my spirit since I need to be able to flow part of his energy to the medium. Though this becomes harder as I try to create another golem.”
“Hmmm then I shall start by mastering lower level versions of my spells, and go on from there. I thank you.” he said saluting. “So what are you up to today? I haven’t seen anyone else from our group today.”
”Well for now I was thinking of doing some training. I eventually want to be able to summon my second golem more easily. Maybe eventually I can summon three.” Ari said in a prideful tune.
“I should be doing the same. Everyone around here is so strong. It is almost overwhelming.” admitted Reymond. “For a amatuer knight you do not lack in confidence.”
”I wish to make my family proud I don’t want them thinking I’m feeling lonely just cause I’m the only one left.” Ari said in a sadder tone.
Reymond didn’t mean to bring up a sore subject. “I’m sure you are doing a fine job. Being selected by Arkasia is no small feat.” he replied.
”Thank you. Ari smiled happily. ”Oh by the way Reymond want me to help you practice? It might help you better understand your control for your spells.
“Nothing is better than first hand practice. Hopefully it goes better than the last time.” replied Reymond.
”Alright then lets go to the training grounds”
The next morning was full of a more groups coming in. Most of them looked a lot worse off than Owain’s group, and some got lost for a few days before they were rounded up by the assist party. Having to get help wasn’t a good sign if you were planning to move up the ranks quickly. Some knights just didn’t have what it took to be leaders.
The training was going as expected, but Arkasia was surprised to hear that quite a few groups made it back earlier than expected. A name she was especially surprised to hear was Owain. With the way he was acting she expected him to lose his nerve and give up.
“So, Owain and his group made it back far ahead of their schedule?” said Arkasia. She had to admit that she was glad Owain wasn’t sitting sad in the gutter. She had hopes that he wouldn’t trash the faith she had in him. “You were right to place that group together. They worked well together.” said Krieg.
“I’m guessing you are suggesting I make it more of a permanent thing?” asked Arkasia. “I’ll have to talk to Owain about that. He makes the final decision. Ari can choose to stay with them if she wishes as well.”
“My thoughts exactly.” Krieg answered.
“Where is Owain now?” asked Arkasia.
“I believe he was training alone when I passed by the training ground earlier.” answered Krieg. Arkasia stood up grabbing her blades. “Guess I better get his opinion in person this time.”
Reymond was deeply studying his book. He was becoming more acquainted with his spiritual side, but he was still having trouble keeping it all under control. It was bad enough that he had to keep his book with him, and still had trouble with the most basic of his talents. He needed a teacher who at least knew the basics of maintaining a spell. Suddenly Ari walked past him, and he decided that perhaps she would know something on the matter.
“Dame Ari, do you have a moment?” asked Reymond snapping his book shut.
“Oh hello Reymond what is it?”
“When you create your golems. How do you keep them in form?” he asked. “I will try and apply this information to my own spells.”
”Oh that. Umm it’s kinda difficult to explain. But I guess I can try.” Ari said thinking the best way to explain it. ”Well first off I need to find a medium. Since my spirit is that of an earth spirit I need to use an earth medium to summon my golems. So as long as I’m near anything that comes from the earth I can create my golem. Though also have some kind of synchronization with my spirit since I need to be able to flow part of his energy to the medium. Though this becomes harder as I try to create another golem.”
“Hmmm then I shall start by mastering lower level versions of my spells, and go on from there. I thank you.” he said saluting. “So what are you up to today? I haven’t seen anyone else from our group today.”
”Well for now I was thinking of doing some training. I eventually want to be able to summon my second golem more easily. Maybe eventually I can summon three.” Ari said in a prideful tune.
“I should be doing the same. Everyone around here is so strong. It is almost overwhelming.” admitted Reymond. “For a amatuer knight you do not lack in confidence.”
”I wish to make my family proud I don’t want them thinking I’m feeling lonely just cause I’m the only one left.” Ari said in a sadder tone.
Reymond didn’t mean to bring up a sore subject. “I’m sure you are doing a fine job. Being selected by Arkasia is no small feat.” he replied.
”Thank you. Ari smiled happily. ”Oh by the way Reymond want me to help you practice? It might help you better understand your control for your spells.
“Nothing is better than first hand practice. Hopefully it goes better than the last time.” replied Reymond.
”Alright then lets go to the training grounds”
0
((This is a joint post starring: Valentine_K1S5 and TheLoneGentleman
Razta spent the morning in his room checking over his equipment, and sharpening his blade. After the training he wanted to make sure that everything was still in usable condition. Gripping the knife tightly he was reminded of home. With all that was happening he hoped that the village was still doing alright. Sheathing his blade he stood up deciding that he should try, and do something with his day besides worry. Stepping out of his room, and into the hallways he saw Anastas who seemed to be in a hurry.
“Hey what’s going on?” asked Razta.
Anastas looked over to Razta who broke him out of his thought. ”Ah, nothing as far as anyone has told. I’m just heading to town for a bit.” he turned to the windows and watched a troop of soldiers marching on parade.
“Mind if I tag along? I haven’t had anytime to check out the area. As soon as I got here we were taken to the capital, and after that was the lockdown then training…” said Razta. “Things are always busy here.”
”Sure, I don’t see any harm in that.” Anastas continued walking and gestured Razta to follow. ”So where exactly did you come from before joining?”
Following close behind Anastas he was glad to just be able to relax for a bit. “My village is called Aoife. It’s one of the main villages in the Forest of Origin.” answered Razta. “I was a hunter there, and my father is a blacksmith.”
”Ah.” Anastas nodded to himself, thinking back to his travels. ”I believe I’ve passed through the outer regions of that place. Very tranquil. I actually considered setting home there once.” He smirked reminiscently and turned his head slightly to look over to Razta, ”But you say your father is a blacksmith? Why didn’t you follow his footsteps?”
“It’s a long story. I wasn’t exactly born there. My father wanted me to do what my heart told me. I want to find out more about my past.” said Razta. “The elder told me I was from the cursed lands, and I was found wandering the forest.” Razta found Anastas easy to talk to. He was a worldly man who seemed to know quite a lot. Perhaps he would even be able to help. “The only clue I have is a collar that they found around my neck.”
”Hmm. . . “ Anastas thought about it for a moment. ”A lot of cursed I encountered often wore collars. Though they probably only wore it fashionably.” He sighed after finding nothing. He stopped and fully turned to Razta ”Sorry I can’t be of help here. Whatever answers that lie in the cursed lands, I’ll help you find them.” He offered his hand to shake, ”I swear it.”
Razta smiled. “I really appreciate it. I’ll be happy to just find traces of my past. It doesn’t have to be my parents or something like that.” said Razta laughing. “I certainly don’t want anyone putting their life on the line for my sake either. If we find it, we find it.”
”Never said I would risk it.” Anastas chuckled. They finally exited the fortress and the sky let out its radiant shine over them, Anastas gave a bit of stretch and breathed in the mountain air. ”Ah. This is why I like this place.” smiling contently, he admired the view before continuing them down towards the bustling town.
“I can see why. The air is clean here, but I do find it harder to breath at this altitude. I hear this can be used for training.” said Razta as he practiced his breathing. As the two walked through the town Razta noticed that a lot of people were waving to Anastas. “You sure have a lot of friends here. You must of lived here a long time right?” asked Razta.
”Yes.” Anastas replied, returning the townspeople's’ waves with smiles and waves of his own. ”I’ve lived here for almost two years now. When I first arrived, a lot of them were wary of me but over time they warmed up.” His smile filled with gloom as he reminisced, ”It’s nice when the community is united together.”
Suddenly however, his expression brightened again. ”Ah, we’re here.” He stated as he turned his head to the somewhat large building next to them, the sign above the door read †˜Bath’. ”It’s been a while since I’ve properly washed so I was planning on heading here. You coming?” He asked Razta as he made his way to the door.
Razta spent the morning in his room checking over his equipment, and sharpening his blade. After the training he wanted to make sure that everything was still in usable condition. Gripping the knife tightly he was reminded of home. With all that was happening he hoped that the village was still doing alright. Sheathing his blade he stood up deciding that he should try, and do something with his day besides worry. Stepping out of his room, and into the hallways he saw Anastas who seemed to be in a hurry.
“Hey what’s going on?” asked Razta.
Anastas looked over to Razta who broke him out of his thought. ”Ah, nothing as far as anyone has told. I’m just heading to town for a bit.” he turned to the windows and watched a troop of soldiers marching on parade.
“Mind if I tag along? I haven’t had anytime to check out the area. As soon as I got here we were taken to the capital, and after that was the lockdown then training…” said Razta. “Things are always busy here.”
”Sure, I don’t see any harm in that.” Anastas continued walking and gestured Razta to follow. ”So where exactly did you come from before joining?”
Following close behind Anastas he was glad to just be able to relax for a bit. “My village is called Aoife. It’s one of the main villages in the Forest of Origin.” answered Razta. “I was a hunter there, and my father is a blacksmith.”
”Ah.” Anastas nodded to himself, thinking back to his travels. ”I believe I’ve passed through the outer regions of that place. Very tranquil. I actually considered setting home there once.” He smirked reminiscently and turned his head slightly to look over to Razta, ”But you say your father is a blacksmith? Why didn’t you follow his footsteps?”
“It’s a long story. I wasn’t exactly born there. My father wanted me to do what my heart told me. I want to find out more about my past.” said Razta. “The elder told me I was from the cursed lands, and I was found wandering the forest.” Razta found Anastas easy to talk to. He was a worldly man who seemed to know quite a lot. Perhaps he would even be able to help. “The only clue I have is a collar that they found around my neck.”
”Hmm. . . “ Anastas thought about it for a moment. ”A lot of cursed I encountered often wore collars. Though they probably only wore it fashionably.” He sighed after finding nothing. He stopped and fully turned to Razta ”Sorry I can’t be of help here. Whatever answers that lie in the cursed lands, I’ll help you find them.” He offered his hand to shake, ”I swear it.”
Razta smiled. “I really appreciate it. I’ll be happy to just find traces of my past. It doesn’t have to be my parents or something like that.” said Razta laughing. “I certainly don’t want anyone putting their life on the line for my sake either. If we find it, we find it.”
”Never said I would risk it.” Anastas chuckled. They finally exited the fortress and the sky let out its radiant shine over them, Anastas gave a bit of stretch and breathed in the mountain air. ”Ah. This is why I like this place.” smiling contently, he admired the view before continuing them down towards the bustling town.
“I can see why. The air is clean here, but I do find it harder to breath at this altitude. I hear this can be used for training.” said Razta as he practiced his breathing. As the two walked through the town Razta noticed that a lot of people were waving to Anastas. “You sure have a lot of friends here. You must of lived here a long time right?” asked Razta.
”Yes.” Anastas replied, returning the townspeople's’ waves with smiles and waves of his own. ”I’ve lived here for almost two years now. When I first arrived, a lot of them were wary of me but over time they warmed up.” His smile filled with gloom as he reminisced, ”It’s nice when the community is united together.”
Suddenly however, his expression brightened again. ”Ah, we’re here.” He stated as he turned his head to the somewhat large building next to them, the sign above the door read †˜Bath’. ”It’s been a while since I’ve properly washed so I was planning on heading here. You coming?” He asked Razta as he made his way to the door.
0
Cinia Pacifica
Ojou-sama Writer
(This is a Joint post starring: TheLoneGentleman, Cinia Pacifica.)
After the ceremonies, and the like were completed Louise was glad to be able to return home. Sadly Leona III had somethings to deal with at the castle, and couldn’t come home with her this time. Upon arrival Margaret who was doing some work in the gardens waved to her. “The ceremonies are done already?” asked Margaret. She skipped out on the boring tradition, and instead visited her husband at Arkasia. She had herself returned just a few days earlier.
“It was far too boring and bothersome for my taste,” Louise nonchalantly answered. “So I had them rush it - without them knowing it - since I know what rituals goes on in there, better than them.”
“Smart, I was able to skip it altogether.” Margaret bragged. “I had Talia handle all the paperwork.”
“You’d be working off your butt if you had a spirit of mine’s calibre,” Louise mocked with a confident smile. Despite her hate for Ishtar, she also loved her all the same, they had many similarities, after all. Like having fun… but Louise immediately dismissed such lascivious thoughts. “Well, there’s too much attention on me right now - with the war and all - this was the best way to hasten the process.”
“With what happened before, I think you had better stay out of the spotlight as much as possible.” advised Margaret.
“I know what I’m doing, this time,” Louise responded with a smug face, pouting. “You act like a doting mother far more than Leona! Jeez!”
“That’s what happens when you become a mother.” she answered. “You care a little too much for your own, and a little too little for the rest.” She laughed as she watered a group flowers. [/b]
“Anyway, how was Krieg, and Arkasia? I mean the area by the latter, of course. I keep hearing about Arkasia, yet I was never able to admire her abilities, yet.”
“He was busy the whole time I was there. It seems that the leak did indeed come from Arkasia. One of her guards was an impostor. Kreig tried to keep the details from me, but the scene wasn’t pretty.” she answered.
“I apologize, but I honestly pity your husband’s position,” Louise boldly spoke, not with her smile this time.
“Aw, he’s strong enough to handle it. She just runs a tight ship. You step in line or get thrown overboard. Similar to the way things are run in this house.” Margaret said smiling.
Louise waved her hand to express that Margaret misunderstood her, then explained herself.“Oh no, I meant that: everyone who are truly loyal to the current queen - oops sorry, I meant the princess - are surprisingly showing signs of incompetence already. Once the enemy feels that they found a hole, they gain their confidence.”
“This is a sad fact. We spent too much time with peace talks. We weren’t preparing for war. Who knows how long Cain was,” she answered.
“Hohoho, too bad my name wouldn’t be in the history textbooks as †˜the one who discreetly sparked the war’. Too bad indeed!” Louise joked. “I’m fairing certain Cain had been waiting for centuries,” Louise said, suddenly becoming serious.
“With that man anything is possible. I wasn’t alive for all of it, but I’ve heard enough. I guarantee us going to war is simply playing into his hands,” answered Margaret.
“What he doesn’t know, is that I’m a part of it this time.” Louse said with her head up high, as always. “That said… ” Louise walked over to Margaret. “Where is your daughter today?”
”We can only hope,” she answered. “Hmm, my daughter was up in her room the last time I checked. What did you need her for?”
“I’ve decided that I’d let her hold onto my old silver wand for now. Currently I have the wand of a High Priestess. It’d be a shame to not use the first wand I had ever used in my life, so I’ll leave the placeholder wand I had been using - to your daughter, until - or if - I come back. If that’s alright with you?”
”It’s fine with me. I’m sure she will take good care of it. Perhaps it will give her inspiration or something.” said Margaret. “Head on in and I’ll be behind you soon.”
“Sure,” Louise said, but instead of walking, she used her spell to speedily teleport her way to her room. “Walking is too bothersome a task, I had only been doing it to reduce my weight, is all,” she complained to herself about the chore that was walking. To a true aristocrat, walking was something they’d not do, if they learned how to levitate. It was the most sloth-infected thought one could ever have.
“Anyone here?” Louise knocked on the door, after reaching it within seconds.
“Just a moment.” said Talia as she got up from her desk. Her room was extremely clean at all times, and she fought hard to keep it that way. Walking to the door she opened it to find Louise standing there.
“Why hello there,” Louise greeted her friend’s daughter - who treated she herself like her daughter - with a smile. “I’ve had business with you, you see.”
”Hello, Business? What is it?” asked Talia a bit confused.
“Yes, I’ve decided that I’ll let you hold onto my silver wand, for now.”
“Doesn’t hold much power. Would you mind if I worked on it?” she asked as Louise handed the wand to her.
“I do mind. That’s because you’re still unworthy. Go train before you actually attempt to use it.”
Talia wasn’t sure if she offended her or not, but she would respect her wishes. “I’ll take your advice.” she said not wanting to argue. Perhaps there really was some sort of hidden potential she wasn’t aware of. “So how does it feel to be High Priestess again?” she asked.
“Hmm, I’m not certain. It’s either †˜back on track’ or †˜man, I forgot this was a bothersome task’.”
“I’m not sure I was ready for it to be honest. The one before me fell ill though. So my ascension was pushed ahead of schedule.” replied Talia.
“Oh? Fell ill, you say?” Louise asked, pondering what may have caused it. On the other hand, the reason why the position fell to her hands previously had finally made sense. You say that you weren’t ready, but you act like you want that position of power for yourself… am I even right to leave my good wand to this mere girl? Louise thought to herself, not sure what to do anymore.
Margaret walked up to the two having their conversation in the hallway. “Is something wrong?” asked Margaret.
“Oh no, I was just having a short conversation with your daughter is all.”
“Oh yes, the wand.” said Margaret reminding herself. “I meant to ask you. How long before you are to depart?”
“I’m heading to the castle after this, why do you ask?” Louise answered, turning to Margaret.
“Leona wanted me to set up a get together before you left. She figured I would be able to throw a party more your style.” she said laughing.
“She is correct in her sense of thinking. However, it’s rather ironic, as I was planning to go to the castle to visit her. Something about her doesn’t seem right.”
“Oh? She seemed fine the last time I saw her.” answered Margaret.
“I feel like she is too concerned about everything that’s going on. It’s more of an obsession at this point. I pray that I’m worried for nothing, however. Don’t tell her anything about this,” Louise stated, then smiled. “I would like to join the party regardless, though.”
“You have my word. Perhaps she needs this party more than you do.” answered Margaret. “I’m glad to hear it. I will send of the invitations, and we will have the party in a few days. Go on and check on Leona. I can handle things here.”
“Very well, then,” Louise said, walking. Except that she walked over to Margaret’s ears. “I have no idea what might happen to her after I leave. I hope you take care of her, up to some extent,” Louise left the task of caring for Leona III to Margaret, then looked back to Talia who stood at the entrance to her room. “Do take care of the wand, you don’t need to use it if you can’t, keep it anywhere, where it doesn’t rust.” As soon as she was done speaking, Louise teleported yet again; leaving the manor of Augusta.
After the ceremonies, and the like were completed Louise was glad to be able to return home. Sadly Leona III had somethings to deal with at the castle, and couldn’t come home with her this time. Upon arrival Margaret who was doing some work in the gardens waved to her. “The ceremonies are done already?” asked Margaret. She skipped out on the boring tradition, and instead visited her husband at Arkasia. She had herself returned just a few days earlier.
“It was far too boring and bothersome for my taste,” Louise nonchalantly answered. “So I had them rush it - without them knowing it - since I know what rituals goes on in there, better than them.”
“Smart, I was able to skip it altogether.” Margaret bragged. “I had Talia handle all the paperwork.”
“You’d be working off your butt if you had a spirit of mine’s calibre,” Louise mocked with a confident smile. Despite her hate for Ishtar, she also loved her all the same, they had many similarities, after all. Like having fun… but Louise immediately dismissed such lascivious thoughts. “Well, there’s too much attention on me right now - with the war and all - this was the best way to hasten the process.”
“With what happened before, I think you had better stay out of the spotlight as much as possible.” advised Margaret.
“I know what I’m doing, this time,” Louise responded with a smug face, pouting. “You act like a doting mother far more than Leona! Jeez!”
“That’s what happens when you become a mother.” she answered. “You care a little too much for your own, and a little too little for the rest.” She laughed as she watered a group flowers. [/b]
“Anyway, how was Krieg, and Arkasia? I mean the area by the latter, of course. I keep hearing about Arkasia, yet I was never able to admire her abilities, yet.”
“He was busy the whole time I was there. It seems that the leak did indeed come from Arkasia. One of her guards was an impostor. Kreig tried to keep the details from me, but the scene wasn’t pretty.” she answered.
“I apologize, but I honestly pity your husband’s position,” Louise boldly spoke, not with her smile this time.
“Aw, he’s strong enough to handle it. She just runs a tight ship. You step in line or get thrown overboard. Similar to the way things are run in this house.” Margaret said smiling.
Louise waved her hand to express that Margaret misunderstood her, then explained herself.“Oh no, I meant that: everyone who are truly loyal to the current queen - oops sorry, I meant the princess - are surprisingly showing signs of incompetence already. Once the enemy feels that they found a hole, they gain their confidence.”
“This is a sad fact. We spent too much time with peace talks. We weren’t preparing for war. Who knows how long Cain was,” she answered.
“Hohoho, too bad my name wouldn’t be in the history textbooks as †˜the one who discreetly sparked the war’. Too bad indeed!” Louise joked. “I’m fairing certain Cain had been waiting for centuries,” Louise said, suddenly becoming serious.
“With that man anything is possible. I wasn’t alive for all of it, but I’ve heard enough. I guarantee us going to war is simply playing into his hands,” answered Margaret.
“What he doesn’t know, is that I’m a part of it this time.” Louse said with her head up high, as always. “That said… ” Louise walked over to Margaret. “Where is your daughter today?”
”We can only hope,” she answered. “Hmm, my daughter was up in her room the last time I checked. What did you need her for?”
“I’ve decided that I’d let her hold onto my old silver wand for now. Currently I have the wand of a High Priestess. It’d be a shame to not use the first wand I had ever used in my life, so I’ll leave the placeholder wand I had been using - to your daughter, until - or if - I come back. If that’s alright with you?”
”It’s fine with me. I’m sure she will take good care of it. Perhaps it will give her inspiration or something.” said Margaret. “Head on in and I’ll be behind you soon.”
“Sure,” Louise said, but instead of walking, she used her spell to speedily teleport her way to her room. “Walking is too bothersome a task, I had only been doing it to reduce my weight, is all,” she complained to herself about the chore that was walking. To a true aristocrat, walking was something they’d not do, if they learned how to levitate. It was the most sloth-infected thought one could ever have.
“Anyone here?” Louise knocked on the door, after reaching it within seconds.
“Just a moment.” said Talia as she got up from her desk. Her room was extremely clean at all times, and she fought hard to keep it that way. Walking to the door she opened it to find Louise standing there.
“Why hello there,” Louise greeted her friend’s daughter - who treated she herself like her daughter - with a smile. “I’ve had business with you, you see.”
”Hello, Business? What is it?” asked Talia a bit confused.
“Yes, I’ve decided that I’ll let you hold onto my silver wand, for now.”
“Doesn’t hold much power. Would you mind if I worked on it?” she asked as Louise handed the wand to her.
“I do mind. That’s because you’re still unworthy. Go train before you actually attempt to use it.”
Talia wasn’t sure if she offended her or not, but she would respect her wishes. “I’ll take your advice.” she said not wanting to argue. Perhaps there really was some sort of hidden potential she wasn’t aware of. “So how does it feel to be High Priestess again?” she asked.
“Hmm, I’m not certain. It’s either †˜back on track’ or †˜man, I forgot this was a bothersome task’.”
“I’m not sure I was ready for it to be honest. The one before me fell ill though. So my ascension was pushed ahead of schedule.” replied Talia.
“Oh? Fell ill, you say?” Louise asked, pondering what may have caused it. On the other hand, the reason why the position fell to her hands previously had finally made sense. You say that you weren’t ready, but you act like you want that position of power for yourself… am I even right to leave my good wand to this mere girl? Louise thought to herself, not sure what to do anymore.
Margaret walked up to the two having their conversation in the hallway. “Is something wrong?” asked Margaret.
“Oh no, I was just having a short conversation with your daughter is all.”
“Oh yes, the wand.” said Margaret reminding herself. “I meant to ask you. How long before you are to depart?”
“I’m heading to the castle after this, why do you ask?” Louise answered, turning to Margaret.
“Leona wanted me to set up a get together before you left. She figured I would be able to throw a party more your style.” she said laughing.
“She is correct in her sense of thinking. However, it’s rather ironic, as I was planning to go to the castle to visit her. Something about her doesn’t seem right.”
“Oh? She seemed fine the last time I saw her.” answered Margaret.
“I feel like she is too concerned about everything that’s going on. It’s more of an obsession at this point. I pray that I’m worried for nothing, however. Don’t tell her anything about this,” Louise stated, then smiled. “I would like to join the party regardless, though.”
“You have my word. Perhaps she needs this party more than you do.” answered Margaret. “I’m glad to hear it. I will send of the invitations, and we will have the party in a few days. Go on and check on Leona. I can handle things here.”
“Very well, then,” Louise said, walking. Except that she walked over to Margaret’s ears. “I have no idea what might happen to her after I leave. I hope you take care of her, up to some extent,” Louise left the task of caring for Leona III to Margaret, then looked back to Talia who stood at the entrance to her room. “Do take care of the wand, you don’t need to use it if you can’t, keep it anywhere, where it doesn’t rust.” As soon as she was done speaking, Louise teleported yet again; leaving the manor of Augusta.
0
(This is a Joint post starring: TheLoneGentleman, Cinia Pacifica.)
Leona III was busy setting up things for when her daughter would eventually leave for war. She needed to be updated on what her duties would be, and what she’d be allowed to do. To Leona, it was a bunch of nonsense that just made sure that she didn’t usurp the throne while her daughter was gone. She was both offended, and impressed that such a system was created.
“I think I have the gist of it, thank you,” she said as the advisor Edzel bowed and walked away. Sighing, she turned around making a break for her quarters before the man remembered something else to go over. As she walked into her room she saw a familiar face sitting upon one of her couches. “Louise?” said Leona III surprised to see her.
“Greetings. Or should I say good evening? Anyway, how are things going around here? Do you think you’ll be able to maintain stability of order in the city, as it is in this state?” asked Louise, comfortably laying back on her couch.
“I have no earthly idea.” said Leona walking over to the opposite couch and collapsing on it. “Should have took your advice, and did nothing.”
“You should relax more like the retired lady you are, and take vacations or something. Worrying about politics no longer fits you, Leona,” Louise said, then smirked. “Any requests you want to make, for this war?”
“I should, but I’ve never been the type to sit still long.” she answered. “I feel like I’m just biding my time for something bigger. As for requests? Make it long. War time is very profitable.” she said laughing.
“I think it’ll be long no matter how you look at it,” Louise answered. “Perhaps I should pay occasional visits to have a drink or two with you.”
“That would be nice. I hope that Margaret will come visit me at well. She has ways of getting hard to find things rather easily.” said Leona. “So what will you do after you settle things with Cain?”
“I have absolutely no clue. Rather, I am not certain whether I’ll make it back, either,” Louise answered seriously, not sure how it’d go.
“If you are unsure why go in the first place? I understand what happened, but you have been able to avoid him easily before.”
“As I have previously mentioned, I have business. Is that not sufficient enough for an answer?” Louise frowned, Leona III should have understood by now that she’d not be giving out the real reason, why was going around in circles, again?
“I guess I’m just being nosy.” said Leona III dropping the subject for now. Leona just hoped that it wasn’t what it sounded like. She decided she would have more trust in her friend. “So I take it that Margaret discussed the party with you?”
“She did informed me that it’d be set up soon. I look forward to it, the party at the shrine was rather… bland. They were better in my time, as I was used to be the organizer in those days.”
“Of course it was Rhea isn’t know for her outstanding personality or party planning.” joked Leona. “These are things that the common people leave to people like us. We will have to show them what a real party is like.”
“Indeed. A party is something that really gets your spirit pumped, not swamped,” Louise added. “Anyway, how is that progressing? I assume you’re still working on it?”
“Of course, and it is going well. I invited even my daughter, but I doubt she will show. Its easy to get the big wigs to these types of things, and we can have fun making jokes on their expense.” joked Leona.
“And here I was hoping that you’d finally drop such a worthless thing and sleep or drink. What a pity.”
“I will have plenty of time to do that. How many chances will I get to make jokes with you? This is an opportunity I won’t miss.” answered Leona.
“You sure you want to joke, though? You get one out of ten from me every time,” Louise mocked, showing a smirk.
“The diamond in the rough is always worth it.” answered Leona with a smile.
“Is that so? May I have you claim with confidence that you’ve often came across said diamonds, then?” Louise asked, with a smile too.
“Of course,” she answered. “You have to hope that all your jokes aren’t lost on me.” She laughed a bit as she sat up straight. She didn’t realize how stressed she was until Louise came to cheer her up. It was good to have a friend that knew you better than you knew yourself.
“Oh well,” Louise shrugged. “So, do you plan to just take care of the city - as she wants you to - or do you have other goals that you still aim for?”
“Dammit, I missed another one didn’t I?” she said laughing. “As for what I have planned. I still have †˜you know what’ to work on, but for now that project can be put on hold. I don’t think I will have the same liberties as before. Not with Saren here.”
Louise responded with a grin to her question. “So Saren no longer respects the former queen? How cold,” Louise shrugged. “People sure are fast to change masters in heart.”
“It’s not that. Saren was the one who was in charge of me when the accident happened, and I fell ill. Since then he hasn’t been the same, and has doubled his efforts. This is probably the reason he took up the job of watching over me.” she explained. “The man is a lot more complex than you might think.”
“And exactly how does feeling responsible for being a failure count for severe complexity, oh do explain.”
Leona began to blush slightly. “It’s nothing,” she answered. “Most people just think he is a muscle head is all.”
Louise raised her eyebrows; making a questioning face. “Oh, really? That’s far more being complex, then. Or was he your… ” Louise was about to ask. “Never mind,” Louise turned her face the other way.
Louise leaned forward on the couch. “You aren’t to tell a soul!” she said. “We didn’t do anything scandalous. Just... talked.”
“That’s great. I couldn’t even speak to him, in my case… ” Louise said, suddenly revealing her melancholic face. The thought brought back unwanted memories.
Reading the mood Leona tried to keep her mind busy. “I thought you would have been more disapproving to be honest.”
“As if,” Louise begun to elaborate. “I don’t know who made it up that the queens or priestesses have to remain pure. As I can assure you that it doesn’t mean anything at the end of the day. My spirit wouldn’t be considered pure if she were to be a human,” she chuckled.
Leona gave a sigh of relief. “Well that might be true, but still.” she said. “ It isn’t something that I can tell anyone else. Traditions are still important, and Saren’s job might be on the line.”
“Yeah, that’s the reason why I’m not a fan of society, yet understand it so much. I bet the people who made the traditions themselves are a bunch of hypocrites.”
“If only I fought harder to be rid of these silly traditions. We wouldn’t be where we are now.” complained Leona.
“What’s done is done. No worth in thinking how it’d be different if you had done something else. Maybe we’d see a worse day now - due to people rebelling from an abrupt change - who knows. I’d just leave for another adventure if I were caught having an affair, though~!”
“Sadly I don’t have that luxury.” said Leona chuckling. “But now that you mention it you did have quite a few adventures…” She brought a hand to her mouth in a gasp as if she figured it all out.
“W-What’s anything to do with my tales of travels?”
Leona giggled. “Oh you know what I’m talking about. How many hearts have you stolen, and gone on an adventure with?”
“Many I’m not quite aware of myself, actually. However, there were some that stole mine, instead. I suppose that in itself is equivalent exchange.”
“That is a victory in my book, Louise.” she said smiling.
“I have had many relationships in which I went all the way,” Louise smiled as she replied. “Have you, oh-so-proud former queen?”
“I can’t say that I have.” she answered. “Perhaps one these days” She smirked as she said the last part.
“No, please die pure. I must maintain my share of victories over you, after all,” Louise grinned. “Besides, it’s a type of an addictive poison that you want to have more, instead of stop.”
“You sure don’t make it any less appealing.” joked Leona.
“Can’t help it. It’s helps to alleviate your stress, at least. I think I wouldn’t have been sane if I hadn’t had come across: wine, this, and other good time-passing games in my life..”
“Perhaps that is why I am still so stressed despite having wine for several lifetime…” said Leona almost serious.
“Maybe it’s about time you start talking to Saren more about… various things,” Louise grinned.
Leona blushed deep red. “I-I think that will do for that topic.” she announced shyly.
“Haha! Sorry if I teased a little too far,” Louise replied, laughing earnestly. “Do you want to end the night with a drink like the last time?”
“Yes, let’s,” responded Leona as she looked in her wine chest for a suitable drink. Placing two glasses down she filled their cups, and placed the wine bottle on the table. As they drank the two talked about various things, past relationship, and other personal topics. Louise who was worried about her friend was a little less worried about when the time would come for her to leave. This took them deep into the afternoon.
Leona III was busy setting up things for when her daughter would eventually leave for war. She needed to be updated on what her duties would be, and what she’d be allowed to do. To Leona, it was a bunch of nonsense that just made sure that she didn’t usurp the throne while her daughter was gone. She was both offended, and impressed that such a system was created.
“I think I have the gist of it, thank you,” she said as the advisor Edzel bowed and walked away. Sighing, she turned around making a break for her quarters before the man remembered something else to go over. As she walked into her room she saw a familiar face sitting upon one of her couches. “Louise?” said Leona III surprised to see her.
“Greetings. Or should I say good evening? Anyway, how are things going around here? Do you think you’ll be able to maintain stability of order in the city, as it is in this state?” asked Louise, comfortably laying back on her couch.
“I have no earthly idea.” said Leona walking over to the opposite couch and collapsing on it. “Should have took your advice, and did nothing.”
“You should relax more like the retired lady you are, and take vacations or something. Worrying about politics no longer fits you, Leona,” Louise said, then smirked. “Any requests you want to make, for this war?”
“I should, but I’ve never been the type to sit still long.” she answered. “I feel like I’m just biding my time for something bigger. As for requests? Make it long. War time is very profitable.” she said laughing.
“I think it’ll be long no matter how you look at it,” Louise answered. “Perhaps I should pay occasional visits to have a drink or two with you.”
“That would be nice. I hope that Margaret will come visit me at well. She has ways of getting hard to find things rather easily.” said Leona. “So what will you do after you settle things with Cain?”
“I have absolutely no clue. Rather, I am not certain whether I’ll make it back, either,” Louise answered seriously, not sure how it’d go.
“If you are unsure why go in the first place? I understand what happened, but you have been able to avoid him easily before.”
“As I have previously mentioned, I have business. Is that not sufficient enough for an answer?” Louise frowned, Leona III should have understood by now that she’d not be giving out the real reason, why was going around in circles, again?
“I guess I’m just being nosy.” said Leona III dropping the subject for now. Leona just hoped that it wasn’t what it sounded like. She decided she would have more trust in her friend. “So I take it that Margaret discussed the party with you?”
“She did informed me that it’d be set up soon. I look forward to it, the party at the shrine was rather… bland. They were better in my time, as I was used to be the organizer in those days.”
“Of course it was Rhea isn’t know for her outstanding personality or party planning.” joked Leona. “These are things that the common people leave to people like us. We will have to show them what a real party is like.”
“Indeed. A party is something that really gets your spirit pumped, not swamped,” Louise added. “Anyway, how is that progressing? I assume you’re still working on it?”
“Of course, and it is going well. I invited even my daughter, but I doubt she will show. Its easy to get the big wigs to these types of things, and we can have fun making jokes on their expense.” joked Leona.
“And here I was hoping that you’d finally drop such a worthless thing and sleep or drink. What a pity.”
“I will have plenty of time to do that. How many chances will I get to make jokes with you? This is an opportunity I won’t miss.” answered Leona.
“You sure you want to joke, though? You get one out of ten from me every time,” Louise mocked, showing a smirk.
“The diamond in the rough is always worth it.” answered Leona with a smile.
“Is that so? May I have you claim with confidence that you’ve often came across said diamonds, then?” Louise asked, with a smile too.
“Of course,” she answered. “You have to hope that all your jokes aren’t lost on me.” She laughed a bit as she sat up straight. She didn’t realize how stressed she was until Louise came to cheer her up. It was good to have a friend that knew you better than you knew yourself.
“Oh well,” Louise shrugged. “So, do you plan to just take care of the city - as she wants you to - or do you have other goals that you still aim for?”
“Dammit, I missed another one didn’t I?” she said laughing. “As for what I have planned. I still have †˜you know what’ to work on, but for now that project can be put on hold. I don’t think I will have the same liberties as before. Not with Saren here.”
Louise responded with a grin to her question. “So Saren no longer respects the former queen? How cold,” Louise shrugged. “People sure are fast to change masters in heart.”
“It’s not that. Saren was the one who was in charge of me when the accident happened, and I fell ill. Since then he hasn’t been the same, and has doubled his efforts. This is probably the reason he took up the job of watching over me.” she explained. “The man is a lot more complex than you might think.”
“And exactly how does feeling responsible for being a failure count for severe complexity, oh do explain.”
Leona began to blush slightly. “It’s nothing,” she answered. “Most people just think he is a muscle head is all.”
Louise raised her eyebrows; making a questioning face. “Oh, really? That’s far more being complex, then. Or was he your… ” Louise was about to ask. “Never mind,” Louise turned her face the other way.
Louise leaned forward on the couch. “You aren’t to tell a soul!” she said. “We didn’t do anything scandalous. Just... talked.”
“That’s great. I couldn’t even speak to him, in my case… ” Louise said, suddenly revealing her melancholic face. The thought brought back unwanted memories.
Reading the mood Leona tried to keep her mind busy. “I thought you would have been more disapproving to be honest.”
“As if,” Louise begun to elaborate. “I don’t know who made it up that the queens or priestesses have to remain pure. As I can assure you that it doesn’t mean anything at the end of the day. My spirit wouldn’t be considered pure if she were to be a human,” she chuckled.
Leona gave a sigh of relief. “Well that might be true, but still.” she said. “ It isn’t something that I can tell anyone else. Traditions are still important, and Saren’s job might be on the line.”
“Yeah, that’s the reason why I’m not a fan of society, yet understand it so much. I bet the people who made the traditions themselves are a bunch of hypocrites.”
“If only I fought harder to be rid of these silly traditions. We wouldn’t be where we are now.” complained Leona.
“What’s done is done. No worth in thinking how it’d be different if you had done something else. Maybe we’d see a worse day now - due to people rebelling from an abrupt change - who knows. I’d just leave for another adventure if I were caught having an affair, though~!”
“Sadly I don’t have that luxury.” said Leona chuckling. “But now that you mention it you did have quite a few adventures…” She brought a hand to her mouth in a gasp as if she figured it all out.
“W-What’s anything to do with my tales of travels?”
Leona giggled. “Oh you know what I’m talking about. How many hearts have you stolen, and gone on an adventure with?”
“Many I’m not quite aware of myself, actually. However, there were some that stole mine, instead. I suppose that in itself is equivalent exchange.”
“That is a victory in my book, Louise.” she said smiling.
“I have had many relationships in which I went all the way,” Louise smiled as she replied. “Have you, oh-so-proud former queen?”
“I can’t say that I have.” she answered. “Perhaps one these days” She smirked as she said the last part.
“No, please die pure. I must maintain my share of victories over you, after all,” Louise grinned. “Besides, it’s a type of an addictive poison that you want to have more, instead of stop.”
“You sure don’t make it any less appealing.” joked Leona.
“Can’t help it. It’s helps to alleviate your stress, at least. I think I wouldn’t have been sane if I hadn’t had come across: wine, this, and other good time-passing games in my life..”
“Perhaps that is why I am still so stressed despite having wine for several lifetime…” said Leona almost serious.
“Maybe it’s about time you start talking to Saren more about… various things,” Louise grinned.
Leona blushed deep red. “I-I think that will do for that topic.” she announced shyly.
“Haha! Sorry if I teased a little too far,” Louise replied, laughing earnestly. “Do you want to end the night with a drink like the last time?”
“Yes, let’s,” responded Leona as she looked in her wine chest for a suitable drink. Placing two glasses down she filled their cups, and placed the wine bottle on the table. As they drank the two talked about various things, past relationship, and other personal topics. Louise who was worried about her friend was a little less worried about when the time would come for her to leave. This took them deep into the afternoon.
0
(This is a Joint post starring: TheLoneGentleman, Valentine_K1S5 and Gahald_Mills.)
“They have group baths in towns like this too?” asked Razta scratching his head. “Why didn’t you just use the one at the castle? That’s what I did.” Still Razta wa a bit curious to what this bathhouse was like, and followed.
Anastas looked to the side with a troubled expression. ”Long story short, the fortress makes me uncomfortable. Stone walls and everything. This place is just more homey to me.” As he entered into the main room, he was somewhat surprised at the sight of Masaki already at the counter.
Masaki was about to walk away from the counter. He look out and surprised to see Anastas and Razta was at the door. ”Oh hey guys!” He waved his hand at them. He was already holding a bucket for his clothes and inside the bucket is a set of towels.
”What are you here to take a bath as well? Am I the only one that prefers baths alone?” said Razta. As he looked at Masaki he looked as if he was having fun, but Razta himself just couldn’t seem to share his friend’s enthusiasm. “I guess since I’m already here I might as well.” said Razta walking up to the counter.
”You just don’t appreciate the bonding thats involved.” Anastas remarked, paying the bath owner some gold coins, he was given a bucket with towels like Masaki. ”Well, let’s get going then.”
Taking his own bucket Razta followed Masaki and Anastas. He didn’t have high hopes for this but he stayed optimistic. Heading into the changing rooms he saw men walking out of them in towels. He assumed he was supposed to do the same. Masaki and Anastas went in ahead of him already knowing what to do. Walking into his own room he got undressed and wrapped himself in the towel from the bucket.
”I was surprised to see you guys here. Back at home I didn’t have to pay if I wanted to take a dip in random hot springs.But here you have to pay.” Masaki said as he undress and put one towel on his shoulders. ”Since I’ve never been in to a town’s hot springs, might as well enjoy it. Hahaha.” Masaki walked into the bath area with nothing covering his bottom half.
”Indeed, I didn’t take you for one that enjoyed these.” Anastas chuckled, placing his towel over his neck and letting the ends hang on both sides. He followed behind Masaki, nothing covering his person likewise and made way to the large pool. The room was flooded with steam and an orchestra of individual conversations went about. ”This is the magic of the bath house.” Anastas laughed in content as he sat down in the pool, the hot water soothing his body like a powerful spiritual veil.
Walking in with his lower body covered with the towel he made his way over to the large pool. He was sure that he probably looked like an outsider, but he wasn’t one to walk around naked with such reckless abandon. Suddenly he felt a tugging on his towel. Grabbing his towel he punched the man into the wall knocking him out cold. It was probably a harmless prank, but Razta was having none of that nonsense.
Witnessing Razta’s case of panic, Anastas gave a spirited laugh, one he never usually gives before calling out to him. ”Will you stop being such a girl and lighten up!” By then, Anastas had jumped out and grappling Razta, he threw him into the pool. It created a magnificent splash with a drenched towel floating in the center. Anastas stood triumphantly at the edge, heartily laughing before following into the pool.
The water began to get very hot boiling from the center as Razta rose from the pool. His body was red hot, but he soon calmed down his face showing deep pleasure. “You know. This ain’t half bad…” he said relaxing.
”Pffttt, Hahaha! Masaki laughed at the relaxing Razta.”I know right? Your face shows it all that you’re quite enjoying this, and the way you punched that guy. That is so silly!” Masaki said with a teasing voice.
The three relaxed in the hot waters feeling all of their worries melt away. Razta who was still very much shy found himself less so by the time they left the bathhouse. Not something that he would make a habit of going to often, but it wasn’t a terrible experience.
“They have group baths in towns like this too?” asked Razta scratching his head. “Why didn’t you just use the one at the castle? That’s what I did.” Still Razta wa a bit curious to what this bathhouse was like, and followed.
Anastas looked to the side with a troubled expression. ”Long story short, the fortress makes me uncomfortable. Stone walls and everything. This place is just more homey to me.” As he entered into the main room, he was somewhat surprised at the sight of Masaki already at the counter.
Masaki was about to walk away from the counter. He look out and surprised to see Anastas and Razta was at the door. ”Oh hey guys!” He waved his hand at them. He was already holding a bucket for his clothes and inside the bucket is a set of towels.
”What are you here to take a bath as well? Am I the only one that prefers baths alone?” said Razta. As he looked at Masaki he looked as if he was having fun, but Razta himself just couldn’t seem to share his friend’s enthusiasm. “I guess since I’m already here I might as well.” said Razta walking up to the counter.
”You just don’t appreciate the bonding thats involved.” Anastas remarked, paying the bath owner some gold coins, he was given a bucket with towels like Masaki. ”Well, let’s get going then.”
Taking his own bucket Razta followed Masaki and Anastas. He didn’t have high hopes for this but he stayed optimistic. Heading into the changing rooms he saw men walking out of them in towels. He assumed he was supposed to do the same. Masaki and Anastas went in ahead of him already knowing what to do. Walking into his own room he got undressed and wrapped himself in the towel from the bucket.
”I was surprised to see you guys here. Back at home I didn’t have to pay if I wanted to take a dip in random hot springs.But here you have to pay.” Masaki said as he undress and put one towel on his shoulders. ”Since I’ve never been in to a town’s hot springs, might as well enjoy it. Hahaha.” Masaki walked into the bath area with nothing covering his bottom half.
”Indeed, I didn’t take you for one that enjoyed these.” Anastas chuckled, placing his towel over his neck and letting the ends hang on both sides. He followed behind Masaki, nothing covering his person likewise and made way to the large pool. The room was flooded with steam and an orchestra of individual conversations went about. ”This is the magic of the bath house.” Anastas laughed in content as he sat down in the pool, the hot water soothing his body like a powerful spiritual veil.
Walking in with his lower body covered with the towel he made his way over to the large pool. He was sure that he probably looked like an outsider, but he wasn’t one to walk around naked with such reckless abandon. Suddenly he felt a tugging on his towel. Grabbing his towel he punched the man into the wall knocking him out cold. It was probably a harmless prank, but Razta was having none of that nonsense.
Witnessing Razta’s case of panic, Anastas gave a spirited laugh, one he never usually gives before calling out to him. ”Will you stop being such a girl and lighten up!” By then, Anastas had jumped out and grappling Razta, he threw him into the pool. It created a magnificent splash with a drenched towel floating in the center. Anastas stood triumphantly at the edge, heartily laughing before following into the pool.
The water began to get very hot boiling from the center as Razta rose from the pool. His body was red hot, but he soon calmed down his face showing deep pleasure. “You know. This ain’t half bad…” he said relaxing.
”Pffttt, Hahaha! Masaki laughed at the relaxing Razta.”I know right? Your face shows it all that you’re quite enjoying this, and the way you punched that guy. That is so silly!” Masaki said with a teasing voice.
The three relaxed in the hot waters feeling all of their worries melt away. Razta who was still very much shy found himself less so by the time they left the bathhouse. Not something that he would make a habit of going to often, but it wasn’t a terrible experience.
0
(This is a joint post between BagMan and TheLoneGentleman
Owain smashed the practice dummy into pieces. “Crap!” he exclaimed “I really need to get used to holding back, it was never like this back at Ardonne” he sighed. Moving onto the next dummy he methodically began slashing at it with his sword. He found it funny that after all these years he hadn’t changed his training method at all, he was about the only ranked person in Arkasia who used these dummies often. As he began to get into a rhythm he allowed his mind to wander, letting his muscle memory take over. He thought about each of the members of his unit in turn: the beautiful and pragmatic Ari Fey, with her powerful golems; Razta who was extremely reliable; the slow but loveable and strong Masaki; Anastas, who had proven better in training in the mountains than he had sparring; Adeline, who must be pretty strong to have hit him so hard and Reymond, who he felt in time would be as strong as any. Arkasia briefly showed up in his mind as he recalled how he had come to be here. SMASH, the dummy practically disintegrated as he hit it with everything he had. “I can’t be losing my cool like that” he scolded himself, disappointed upon realising that he was still angry at Dia.
The sound of footsteps echoed behind Owain as Arkasia entered the practice grounds. “Why not fight something that will fight you back?” asked Arkasia seeing him dominate the practice equipment.
“I’m more than willing if you’re offering” Owain said, not turning to face her.
Arkasia smirked at this blatant sign of disrespect. Drawing one of her swords she dropped her weighted chain to the floor, and wrapped it around her leg. “I think you are forgetting your place Owain.” she said chuckling.
Distracted Owain failed to channel Nimue’s power into his armour, in time to help him defend himself.
“What’s this Owain?” asked Arkasia walking towards Owain. “Choking under pressure?” As she approached she raised her sword preparing to strike him down, but its obvious she was holding back. Slowing her sword at the last moment Owain was able to raise his shield in time, but took all Owain had to hold her back.
Gah, she’s just messing around, Owain thought, blaming himself for failing to channel his spirit’s energy properly.
Feeling Owain’s strength increase as he pushed back against her attack she smirked. “That is more like it.” she said as she raised her sword once again. Bringing down her sword she immediately knew that she probably held back to much in her assault.
“What’s wrong Dia?” He returned the taunt, grinning as he pushed her sword off his shield, this time bringing his own sword down on her. Arkasia was surprised when Owain flung her back, and went on his own offensive. Drawing her other sword she was able to move fast enough to block it, but even though she was strong enough to withstand the attack she could feel Owain’s strength through the attack.
“Very Nice,” she said glancing at him through their deadlock. Without warning she kicked sending her weight to wrap around Owain’s leg, but she couldn’t get the momentum it needed in her current stance. She would need to get some distance between her and Owain. Using an agile flip she put a good distance between her and Owain.
Owain knew that closing the distance would be a pain, instead switching to a ranged attack. The water traveled along his blade forming a solid lance, and fired off at Arkasia. Still in mid flip Arkasia had to use her hand to push herself in a different direction. Sliding to a halt she looked at Owain while focusing a strong wind around her body. Surrounding herself in wind her hair whipped around violently. She was looking to end this battle quickly.
“Getting a bit hasty, sir?” Owain smiled.
“Neither of us is holding back anymore. I won’t disrespect you by giving you any less than my all.” she answered and she crouched ready to strike. With a hard step she tore off towards Owain at breakneck speed. As she did Owain slammed his sword on the ground creating a whirlpool on the ground surface. As Arkasia approached she got tripped up in the whirlpool. Water splashed around as she slowed her approach.
Owain took this opportunity for an attack, rushing to strike her with all his strength in one attack. He raised his greatsword over his head ready to strike. Arkasia spun her swords, and the two warriors clashed with all their might, water from the whirlpool splashed up around them. In the end Owain proved to be the stronger, but only by a small margin as he began to push Arkasia back. Acknowledging that Owain had the advantage she smiled. As she tugged on the chain that wrapped around Owain’s leg. Disrupting his balance slightly she was able to use that opportunity to defect the attack to the side. It slammed into the ground creating deep gash in the earth.
Arkasia trapped him in this stance holding her blade in a groove in his arm armor, and held the other in the groove under his helmet.
“Excellent,” she said catching her breath. “Your strength is not to be underestimated.”
Owain laughed, “looks like I couldn’t beat you after all” he said composed, “your speed is crazy… have you gotten faster?”
“Always improving.” she answered retracting her blades. “As are you. I made the right choice by choosing you to lead your current group. If you are up to the task I wish to make the group permanent.”
Owain sheathed his own sword, “you should ask the others if they’re up to the task of keeping up with me, not the other way around” he laughed, finding that the fight with Arkasia had cleared his mind, he was no longer angry.
“Heh, thats the spirit.” answered Arkasia. Suddenly she looked to the side to see Reymond and Ari. Reymond clapped lightly.
Owain smashed the practice dummy into pieces. “Crap!” he exclaimed “I really need to get used to holding back, it was never like this back at Ardonne” he sighed. Moving onto the next dummy he methodically began slashing at it with his sword. He found it funny that after all these years he hadn’t changed his training method at all, he was about the only ranked person in Arkasia who used these dummies often. As he began to get into a rhythm he allowed his mind to wander, letting his muscle memory take over. He thought about each of the members of his unit in turn: the beautiful and pragmatic Ari Fey, with her powerful golems; Razta who was extremely reliable; the slow but loveable and strong Masaki; Anastas, who had proven better in training in the mountains than he had sparring; Adeline, who must be pretty strong to have hit him so hard and Reymond, who he felt in time would be as strong as any. Arkasia briefly showed up in his mind as he recalled how he had come to be here. SMASH, the dummy practically disintegrated as he hit it with everything he had. “I can’t be losing my cool like that” he scolded himself, disappointed upon realising that he was still angry at Dia.
The sound of footsteps echoed behind Owain as Arkasia entered the practice grounds. “Why not fight something that will fight you back?” asked Arkasia seeing him dominate the practice equipment.
“I’m more than willing if you’re offering” Owain said, not turning to face her.
Arkasia smirked at this blatant sign of disrespect. Drawing one of her swords she dropped her weighted chain to the floor, and wrapped it around her leg. “I think you are forgetting your place Owain.” she said chuckling.
Distracted Owain failed to channel Nimue’s power into his armour, in time to help him defend himself.
“What’s this Owain?” asked Arkasia walking towards Owain. “Choking under pressure?” As she approached she raised her sword preparing to strike him down, but its obvious she was holding back. Slowing her sword at the last moment Owain was able to raise his shield in time, but took all Owain had to hold her back.
Gah, she’s just messing around, Owain thought, blaming himself for failing to channel his spirit’s energy properly.
Feeling Owain’s strength increase as he pushed back against her attack she smirked. “That is more like it.” she said as she raised her sword once again. Bringing down her sword she immediately knew that she probably held back to much in her assault.
“What’s wrong Dia?” He returned the taunt, grinning as he pushed her sword off his shield, this time bringing his own sword down on her. Arkasia was surprised when Owain flung her back, and went on his own offensive. Drawing her other sword she was able to move fast enough to block it, but even though she was strong enough to withstand the attack she could feel Owain’s strength through the attack.
“Very Nice,” she said glancing at him through their deadlock. Without warning she kicked sending her weight to wrap around Owain’s leg, but she couldn’t get the momentum it needed in her current stance. She would need to get some distance between her and Owain. Using an agile flip she put a good distance between her and Owain.
Owain knew that closing the distance would be a pain, instead switching to a ranged attack. The water traveled along his blade forming a solid lance, and fired off at Arkasia. Still in mid flip Arkasia had to use her hand to push herself in a different direction. Sliding to a halt she looked at Owain while focusing a strong wind around her body. Surrounding herself in wind her hair whipped around violently. She was looking to end this battle quickly.
“Getting a bit hasty, sir?” Owain smiled.
“Neither of us is holding back anymore. I won’t disrespect you by giving you any less than my all.” she answered and she crouched ready to strike. With a hard step she tore off towards Owain at breakneck speed. As she did Owain slammed his sword on the ground creating a whirlpool on the ground surface. As Arkasia approached she got tripped up in the whirlpool. Water splashed around as she slowed her approach.
Owain took this opportunity for an attack, rushing to strike her with all his strength in one attack. He raised his greatsword over his head ready to strike. Arkasia spun her swords, and the two warriors clashed with all their might, water from the whirlpool splashed up around them. In the end Owain proved to be the stronger, but only by a small margin as he began to push Arkasia back. Acknowledging that Owain had the advantage she smiled. As she tugged on the chain that wrapped around Owain’s leg. Disrupting his balance slightly she was able to use that opportunity to defect the attack to the side. It slammed into the ground creating deep gash in the earth.
Arkasia trapped him in this stance holding her blade in a groove in his arm armor, and held the other in the groove under his helmet.
“Excellent,” she said catching her breath. “Your strength is not to be underestimated.”
Owain laughed, “looks like I couldn’t beat you after all” he said composed, “your speed is crazy… have you gotten faster?”
“Always improving.” she answered retracting her blades. “As are you. I made the right choice by choosing you to lead your current group. If you are up to the task I wish to make the group permanent.”
Owain sheathed his own sword, “you should ask the others if they’re up to the task of keeping up with me, not the other way around” he laughed, finding that the fight with Arkasia had cleared his mind, he was no longer angry.
“Heh, thats the spirit.” answered Arkasia. Suddenly she looked to the side to see Reymond and Ari. Reymond clapped lightly.
0
(TheLoneGentleman[/color],Katsucha, and Bagman.)
“What a splendid fight.” said Reymond. “Who would have thought out commander was able to keep up with the great Arkasia.”
“Well I don’t know about keep up, this old tin can is pretty slow.” joked Arkasia.
“Fast enough to keep you on your toes” Owain replied, “and you’re one to call others old” he jibed, smiling wryly.
“Agreed.” said Arkasia as she suddenly found herself shivering. “Dammit! I’m all wet.”
Owain chuckled, “Want me to grab you a towel? I could use one myself,” he asked, taking his helmet off, his long hair was wet and clung to his face.
“Yes please,” she said as she turned to Reymond and Ari. “Did you two come to spar as well?”
“Yes sir. Hoping it helps Reymond better maintain his attacks.”
“Well don’t let us stop you. Go ahead.” said Arkasia stepping to the side. “I will give pointers where I can.”
”Thank you sir. Alright Reymond hope you ready I’ll do something different this time I guess. ”
Owain moved next to Arkasia to watch the fight, passing a towel to her. Taking it she began to dry her hair.
Ari placed her hand on her chest as she has come accustom to doing before summoning her golem. Though when her golem rose Ari notice there was something wrong with it. “Damn it Sir Owain you left the ground totally soaked.”
“Bwahaha” Owain burst out laughing, “it looks so stupid” he said referring to her golem. His laughter settling he bowed his head, “sorry about that Ari, try again” he apologised.
Reymond chuckled at the Golem’s appearance, “It does look rather amusing.” he said.
Ari sighed ”Well as you can see, Reymond. I can’t really use mud for my golems since I can’t control the water that is mixed into it. So my golems appear really unstable.” Ari then looked around looking for a patch of earth that hadn’t been soaked by Owain. ”Oh this part is still dry” Ari then again try summoning her golem this time she summoned it successfully. ”Alright then whenever you’re ready Reymond”
“Hmmm that is valuable information. Then a snow golem is also out of your league. We got lucky in our training.” he said. Opening his book he began to chant quietly as he tried to make just two swords appear, to his surprise two large swords appeared shining brightly. “I do believe your advice was helpful.” said Reymond.
”Glad it helped. Though enough talk lets go.” Soon after Ari dashed towards Reymond while her golem dashed to the side trying to attack from a different angle. Reymond didn’t expect the sudden attack from Ari, and was overwhelmed. He only chance was to use his swords to shield him from their assault. His sword crossed in front of him in a protective stance.
As soon as Ari saw Reymond using his sword as shields she quickly started chanting. Soon the earth around Reymond rose up creating an earth prison around him. ”So Reymond what will you do now.” Ari said as she signal her golem to enter the prison.
Reymond had a few tricks up his sleeves, but he needed to think quickly. As he thought he saw a face peer in through the stone. Ari’s golem was moving through the stone. Freaking out he sent both swords towards the golem hoping to seal it. As he sent them out one sword faded, and the other hit the golem straight on. The golem was sealed, but it wouldn’t last long.
Suddenly he felt a presence behind him. Turning slowly he saw Ari who jumped out and scared him. Shouting in terror he collapsed to the floor.
"Umm, I think I might have over did it little.” Ari said as she chanted for the stone walls to crumble. ”Sir Owain you think you can help me carry him!?” Ari said looking at where Owain and Arkasia where at.
“Don’t kill my soldiers before I can get at least some use out of them Ari.” said Arkasia laughing.
”Sorry sir, I didn’t expect that would happen. Ari said chuckling a bit.
“Try not to overdo it, eh?” Owain said laughing. He picked Reymond up, “should I take him back to his quarters or what?” he asked.
“Yes I think their training showed him what he was looking for,” she said. “He has a way to go before he will be ready, but atleast he is adamant in his training.” Arkasia was surprised that Ari had grown herself in that short amount of time. The training must have done her some good. Suddenly a soldier ran up to her and saluted breathing heavily.
“Sir! there is an urgent message concerning Raltese!” he announced handing her a letter. Snatching it from the soldiers hands she read it over.
“It’s not even asking for support...They took the entire city this quickly?” said Arkasia in disbelief.
“Eh?” Owain said taking a peek at the letter over Arkasia’s shoulder, “that’s crazy…”
Turning to the soldier her face was serious. “I want you to relay this to all the knights, I want us set to move out in four days.” she ordered. The soldier saluted and ran off as fast as he came. “Owain have your men ready.” Arkasia walked off in the direction of her office.
“Sir!” Owain replied, he would have saluted had he not have had Reymond in his arms, “oi you, wake up” he said, lightly slapping the man’s face.
Reymond woke up startled as his eyes opened up. “Its all over…” he mumbled. Soon he noticed his feet weren’t on the ground. Pushing himself away from Owain he stood on his own feet. “How embarrassing,”
“Sir Owain, what are you orders?” Ari asked as she heard what happen.
“That should be obvious, get ready. Get your equipment and brace yourselves, looks like we have a battle on our hands” Owain said sternly.
“Yes sir!” Ari responded as then she headed back to her quarters to gather her things.
“Wait what is going on?” he said confused. It seemed he missed quite a bit in the small time he was out cold. After being clued in he saluted to Owain. “At once sir. I’ll be ready to move out at a moments notice.”
“What a splendid fight.” said Reymond. “Who would have thought out commander was able to keep up with the great Arkasia.”
“Well I don’t know about keep up, this old tin can is pretty slow.” joked Arkasia.
“Fast enough to keep you on your toes” Owain replied, “and you’re one to call others old” he jibed, smiling wryly.
“Agreed.” said Arkasia as she suddenly found herself shivering. “Dammit! I’m all wet.”
Owain chuckled, “Want me to grab you a towel? I could use one myself,” he asked, taking his helmet off, his long hair was wet and clung to his face.
“Yes please,” she said as she turned to Reymond and Ari. “Did you two come to spar as well?”
“Yes sir. Hoping it helps Reymond better maintain his attacks.”
“Well don’t let us stop you. Go ahead.” said Arkasia stepping to the side. “I will give pointers where I can.”
”Thank you sir. Alright Reymond hope you ready I’ll do something different this time I guess. ”
Owain moved next to Arkasia to watch the fight, passing a towel to her. Taking it she began to dry her hair.
Ari placed her hand on her chest as she has come accustom to doing before summoning her golem. Though when her golem rose Ari notice there was something wrong with it. “Damn it Sir Owain you left the ground totally soaked.”
“Bwahaha” Owain burst out laughing, “it looks so stupid” he said referring to her golem. His laughter settling he bowed his head, “sorry about that Ari, try again” he apologised.
Reymond chuckled at the Golem’s appearance, “It does look rather amusing.” he said.
Ari sighed ”Well as you can see, Reymond. I can’t really use mud for my golems since I can’t control the water that is mixed into it. So my golems appear really unstable.” Ari then looked around looking for a patch of earth that hadn’t been soaked by Owain. ”Oh this part is still dry” Ari then again try summoning her golem this time she summoned it successfully. ”Alright then whenever you’re ready Reymond”
“Hmmm that is valuable information. Then a snow golem is also out of your league. We got lucky in our training.” he said. Opening his book he began to chant quietly as he tried to make just two swords appear, to his surprise two large swords appeared shining brightly. “I do believe your advice was helpful.” said Reymond.
”Glad it helped. Though enough talk lets go.” Soon after Ari dashed towards Reymond while her golem dashed to the side trying to attack from a different angle. Reymond didn’t expect the sudden attack from Ari, and was overwhelmed. He only chance was to use his swords to shield him from their assault. His sword crossed in front of him in a protective stance.
As soon as Ari saw Reymond using his sword as shields she quickly started chanting. Soon the earth around Reymond rose up creating an earth prison around him. ”So Reymond what will you do now.” Ari said as she signal her golem to enter the prison.
Reymond had a few tricks up his sleeves, but he needed to think quickly. As he thought he saw a face peer in through the stone. Ari’s golem was moving through the stone. Freaking out he sent both swords towards the golem hoping to seal it. As he sent them out one sword faded, and the other hit the golem straight on. The golem was sealed, but it wouldn’t last long.
Suddenly he felt a presence behind him. Turning slowly he saw Ari who jumped out and scared him. Shouting in terror he collapsed to the floor.
"Umm, I think I might have over did it little.” Ari said as she chanted for the stone walls to crumble. ”Sir Owain you think you can help me carry him!?” Ari said looking at where Owain and Arkasia where at.
“Don’t kill my soldiers before I can get at least some use out of them Ari.” said Arkasia laughing.
”Sorry sir, I didn’t expect that would happen. Ari said chuckling a bit.
“Try not to overdo it, eh?” Owain said laughing. He picked Reymond up, “should I take him back to his quarters or what?” he asked.
“Yes I think their training showed him what he was looking for,” she said. “He has a way to go before he will be ready, but atleast he is adamant in his training.” Arkasia was surprised that Ari had grown herself in that short amount of time. The training must have done her some good. Suddenly a soldier ran up to her and saluted breathing heavily.
“Sir! there is an urgent message concerning Raltese!” he announced handing her a letter. Snatching it from the soldiers hands she read it over.
“It’s not even asking for support...They took the entire city this quickly?” said Arkasia in disbelief.
“Eh?” Owain said taking a peek at the letter over Arkasia’s shoulder, “that’s crazy…”
Turning to the soldier her face was serious. “I want you to relay this to all the knights, I want us set to move out in four days.” she ordered. The soldier saluted and ran off as fast as he came. “Owain have your men ready.” Arkasia walked off in the direction of her office.
“Sir!” Owain replied, he would have saluted had he not have had Reymond in his arms, “oi you, wake up” he said, lightly slapping the man’s face.
Reymond woke up startled as his eyes opened up. “Its all over…” he mumbled. Soon he noticed his feet weren’t on the ground. Pushing himself away from Owain he stood on his own feet. “How embarrassing,”
“Sir Owain, what are you orders?” Ari asked as she heard what happen.
“That should be obvious, get ready. Get your equipment and brace yourselves, looks like we have a battle on our hands” Owain said sternly.
“Yes sir!” Ari responded as then she headed back to her quarters to gather her things.
“Wait what is going on?” he said confused. It seemed he missed quite a bit in the small time he was out cold. After being clued in he saluted to Owain. “At once sir. I’ll be ready to move out at a moments notice.”
0
The cursed soldiers had no trouble making themselves at home in the city of Raltese. Until they were needed again they would ransack the city taking whatever they wanted for themselves. Being an important resource for the Scion it was only a matter of time before another battle broke out. As the city was being gutted Selanus took a look around. From what his aunt told him her weapons left spiritual residue that was easy to spot. One of the first things she wanted him to do was retrieve the collars from Marian who was supposed to have her soldiers collect them.
Munching on a loaf of bread he picked up, the miasma that the weapons left behind was almost suffocating. "It's everywhere. She said they'd be good but to think... You, where's Rep. Marian?" He asked a nearby soldier, eager to finally be part of the action.
“She is in the castle, sir.” answered the soldier. “You may want to take your time getting there. I hear she is kinda busy.”
"Perfect. Any good watering holes round this place, I could use a drink in the meantime." He handed the half eaten loaf to the soldier. "For your services." No wonder Soul felt bored, there really was a lack of things to do.
“We took over a bar down the way, but I don’t think anyone actually knows how to make drinks…” said the soldier laughing. Looking at the bread confused he decided to save it for the beasts later. Turning and pointing down a street he showed Selanus which way to go.
Following the directions from the soldier ,true enough, there was a bar. He stepped in, the place seemingly half full with troops celebrating the victory over Raltese. "Couldn't have done it without my aunt." said Selanus shaking his head, did the troops even know who helped them in this near bloodless victory?
Grabbing a mug, he began mixing a small brew for himself, dropping a bit of honey in for good measure. The back of the bar was cozy and a good point to watch the festivities from.
Soul walked in suddenly after catching wind that they took over a bar. He simply couldn’t resist a good drink. Spotting Selanus he walked over and sat down. “You know how to make Venom?” asked Soul pulling up a mug.
"When you're in a prison with nothing to do, you pick up a few tricks." Taking the mug, he put the drink together, infusing the droplet of venom with some spirit for a stronger kick.
As Selanus added the final component the drink began to fizz. Snatching it up he gulped it in one go, enjoying the burn as it went down. “Man, Marian tortured those girls all night. She’s not someone you want to disappoint,” said Soul as he slammed down his mug.
Selanus drank from his own mug, savoring the taste. "I haven't actually had a chance to speak to any of the Reps yet, Raskana is pretty isolated." He leaned back, "I'll try to avoid that to the best of my ability." Kristina had told him about Marian before, especially not to get on her bad side. "Another cup Chief?"
“Well you are talking to me.” said Soul reminding him that he was a Representative as well. “Raskana is my type of place. I got to kill a few prisoners off for Kristina. I wish I could live there” said Soul chuckling. “Yes I will take another!”
"Yeah, first time anyhow. You've got a huge fan club back in Raskana, they've got a shrine dedicated to you in a room somewhere if I recall." He laughed, reminiscing the time he stumbled upon the rabid fanboys celebrating Souls latest conquest. "There isn't much in Raskana, Auntie and the hunts are the only thing keeping me there."
“For me?” he said laughing. “I guess I was one of the people that escaped that place, and got away with it. Luckily your aunt wasn’t in charge of it then.” he answered. “I doubt even I could have managed an escape from there now.”
"Yes, for you. The last time there was an attempt, I was around to put a stop to it." Selanus slid the mug to Soul, "Here? I hope to have a bit of fun before heading back though. Freedom never felt better."
“How long are you here? You never told me what it was your aunt had you come here for.” said tapping on his mug as Selanus forgot to make his drink.
He brewed Soul another portion, popping a bit more spiritual energy into the poison, this time the mixture began to froth and bubble dangerously. "Try this, the men at prison couldn't take too many of these. I'll be here till I catch my mark or at least info on him. Other than that, let loose and serve you guys, Chief." He slid the mug across again, waiting to see the results.
Grabbing the mug he opened his mouth wide pouring the acid down his throat. He had to admit it hate more bite than he thought, but still wasn't enough to fight his regeneration. He prayed for the day he could get hammered like so many of his men. “What else you got?”
"Hoho!" Selanus took the cup as Soul finished, "you up for the finale? The wardens who tried it made it their last. Raskanian roulette, unlucky one gets my strongest. Tended to burn a hole in throats, tables and tiles." He focused for a moment, filling the vial of venom with spirit before pouring it into a fresh mixture. Astaroth clapped her hands with glee, rarely getting to see throats disintegrate. The cup began to rattle and hiss, the concoction eating through its material. "Bottoms up Chief." Grinning, Selanus handed the mug back.
Taking the drink in his hand he examined it for a moment. The drink was brimming with spiritual power. Something like that might actually be able to affect him. Knocking back the mug. He was surprised when his vision became fuzzy. It was if the drink went right to his brain, and the regeneration didn’t even know how to handle it. Standing up Soul began laughing for no reason.
It might've been the lack of screaming or it was just the laughter, he couldn't tell but Selanus was looking at something no one else had the chance of viewing. "Gotcha good eh Chief? Could always brew another anytime."
The look in Souls eyes promised anything but pleasure as he glanced over at Selanus, laughing all the while.
"Oh, seems to have gone to his head... First time drunks are the worst." He turned around to the crowd, yelling and fleeing even as he did so. "Everybody out the Chief has lost it!"
Soul placed a hand on Selanus’ should. “Nah, its cool...everything is...coool” he said calmly walking out of the bar. Some people stopped in their tracks and watched Soul simply leave the bar.
"That's... Surprisingly mild..." He watched Soul walk off into the night, laughing even as the darkness seemed to swallow him up. Scruffing his hair, Selanus gave a deep sigh as he walked in the direction of the castle, the thought of Marian finding out was mortifying. "She's not going to be happy... Not happy at all."
The night was still young for the rest of the troops, word spreading that the commander in chief had gotten drunk sparking a new round of festivities for everyone.
Munching on a loaf of bread he picked up, the miasma that the weapons left behind was almost suffocating. "It's everywhere. She said they'd be good but to think... You, where's Rep. Marian?" He asked a nearby soldier, eager to finally be part of the action.
“She is in the castle, sir.” answered the soldier. “You may want to take your time getting there. I hear she is kinda busy.”
"Perfect. Any good watering holes round this place, I could use a drink in the meantime." He handed the half eaten loaf to the soldier. "For your services." No wonder Soul felt bored, there really was a lack of things to do.
“We took over a bar down the way, but I don’t think anyone actually knows how to make drinks…” said the soldier laughing. Looking at the bread confused he decided to save it for the beasts later. Turning and pointing down a street he showed Selanus which way to go.
Following the directions from the soldier ,true enough, there was a bar. He stepped in, the place seemingly half full with troops celebrating the victory over Raltese. "Couldn't have done it without my aunt." said Selanus shaking his head, did the troops even know who helped them in this near bloodless victory?
Grabbing a mug, he began mixing a small brew for himself, dropping a bit of honey in for good measure. The back of the bar was cozy and a good point to watch the festivities from.
Soul walked in suddenly after catching wind that they took over a bar. He simply couldn’t resist a good drink. Spotting Selanus he walked over and sat down. “You know how to make Venom?” asked Soul pulling up a mug.
"When you're in a prison with nothing to do, you pick up a few tricks." Taking the mug, he put the drink together, infusing the droplet of venom with some spirit for a stronger kick.
As Selanus added the final component the drink began to fizz. Snatching it up he gulped it in one go, enjoying the burn as it went down. “Man, Marian tortured those girls all night. She’s not someone you want to disappoint,” said Soul as he slammed down his mug.
Selanus drank from his own mug, savoring the taste. "I haven't actually had a chance to speak to any of the Reps yet, Raskana is pretty isolated." He leaned back, "I'll try to avoid that to the best of my ability." Kristina had told him about Marian before, especially not to get on her bad side. "Another cup Chief?"
“Well you are talking to me.” said Soul reminding him that he was a Representative as well. “Raskana is my type of place. I got to kill a few prisoners off for Kristina. I wish I could live there” said Soul chuckling. “Yes I will take another!”
"Yeah, first time anyhow. You've got a huge fan club back in Raskana, they've got a shrine dedicated to you in a room somewhere if I recall." He laughed, reminiscing the time he stumbled upon the rabid fanboys celebrating Souls latest conquest. "There isn't much in Raskana, Auntie and the hunts are the only thing keeping me there."
“For me?” he said laughing. “I guess I was one of the people that escaped that place, and got away with it. Luckily your aunt wasn’t in charge of it then.” he answered. “I doubt even I could have managed an escape from there now.”
"Yes, for you. The last time there was an attempt, I was around to put a stop to it." Selanus slid the mug to Soul, "Here? I hope to have a bit of fun before heading back though. Freedom never felt better."
“How long are you here? You never told me what it was your aunt had you come here for.” said tapping on his mug as Selanus forgot to make his drink.
He brewed Soul another portion, popping a bit more spiritual energy into the poison, this time the mixture began to froth and bubble dangerously. "Try this, the men at prison couldn't take too many of these. I'll be here till I catch my mark or at least info on him. Other than that, let loose and serve you guys, Chief." He slid the mug across again, waiting to see the results.
Grabbing the mug he opened his mouth wide pouring the acid down his throat. He had to admit it hate more bite than he thought, but still wasn't enough to fight his regeneration. He prayed for the day he could get hammered like so many of his men. “What else you got?”
"Hoho!" Selanus took the cup as Soul finished, "you up for the finale? The wardens who tried it made it their last. Raskanian roulette, unlucky one gets my strongest. Tended to burn a hole in throats, tables and tiles." He focused for a moment, filling the vial of venom with spirit before pouring it into a fresh mixture. Astaroth clapped her hands with glee, rarely getting to see throats disintegrate. The cup began to rattle and hiss, the concoction eating through its material. "Bottoms up Chief." Grinning, Selanus handed the mug back.
Taking the drink in his hand he examined it for a moment. The drink was brimming with spiritual power. Something like that might actually be able to affect him. Knocking back the mug. He was surprised when his vision became fuzzy. It was if the drink went right to his brain, and the regeneration didn’t even know how to handle it. Standing up Soul began laughing for no reason.
It might've been the lack of screaming or it was just the laughter, he couldn't tell but Selanus was looking at something no one else had the chance of viewing. "Gotcha good eh Chief? Could always brew another anytime."
The look in Souls eyes promised anything but pleasure as he glanced over at Selanus, laughing all the while.
"Oh, seems to have gone to his head... First time drunks are the worst." He turned around to the crowd, yelling and fleeing even as he did so. "Everybody out the Chief has lost it!"
Soul placed a hand on Selanus’ should. “Nah, its cool...everything is...coool” he said calmly walking out of the bar. Some people stopped in their tracks and watched Soul simply leave the bar.
"That's... Surprisingly mild..." He watched Soul walk off into the night, laughing even as the darkness seemed to swallow him up. Scruffing his hair, Selanus gave a deep sigh as he walked in the direction of the castle, the thought of Marian finding out was mortifying. "She's not going to be happy... Not happy at all."
The night was still young for the rest of the troops, word spreading that the commander in chief had gotten drunk sparking a new round of festivities for everyone.
0
The next few days were busy to say the least. With the attack on Raltese pushing them to head out slightly ahead of schedule there was a cloud of stress hanging over much of the city. Many soldiers however were happy to finally be able to do something with all their training and hard work. Arkasia’s knights had their hands full checking on the status of their troops, and sorting out people based on specialty. Plans that were meant to take place over a few weeks now needed to be completed in days. With a city as rich in resources such as Raltese they needed to act fast to retrieve it. Arkasia called all her knights in for a meeting to plan what should be done.
“It should have had better defenses than that. I went there myself to make sure. They had to have an inside man of two there.” said Kreig. “Something is seriously wrong with how easy we are being fooled. Them taking that city in a day is ridiculous.”
“We have underestimated Cain before. If what they say is true he has knowledge that spans generations. Right now we may be playing into his hands as well.” said Nero.
“Ari do you have any opinions on this?” asked Nero looking to her. He said trying to get her involved.
”No sir as I’m not really familiar with Raltese so I cannot say much. But do we have an estimate of how many soldiers they have in the city? ”
“It is a relatively small force. About 300 - 400 soldiers. Which makes the time frame in which this happened even more bizarre.” answered Kreig.
“We’re missing something, I’m sure of it” Owain chimed in, “it’s absolutely illogical unless they have something we don’t”
“Owain, your report from the attack on the city,” Arkasia started. “you said the man was changing the citizens. You even said that the man hoped to †˜acquire’ you?”
Owain nodded, “indeed, seemed he had some way of controlling people, I’m unsure under what conditions though, most likely he could manipulate the dead”
“We don’t have enough information to make any speculations, but if they had more people like him? You could virtually turn the city on itself.” said Krieg.
“Frankly it’s disgusting, he was disgusting, although I’m upset I couldn’t get more information from him” Owain said, looking as though he had a bad taste in his mouth.
”So we are dealing with enemy soldiers and probably an unknown dead army of our own people as well is what you’re saying?”
“Something like that,” said Nero.
“Scaaary,” said a knight from the back of the room. “How do we even fight something like that?”
“With weapons.” said Arkasia. “You have a sword. Use it. They die like any other enemy.”
”Though how can well tell them apart from our own soldiers, won’t they be having the same equipment as us?”[
“Their movements are nothing like ours. Pay close attention to the way they act. You Ari, should be able to tell after the attack.” answered Arkasia. “For those of you that were not there. Look for jerkish movements. Their bodies don’t work the same way, but they are easier to defeat. So they shouldn't be much of a problem for us as long as we don’t let ourselves get overwhelmed.”
“Really, they were slow enough for even me to keep up” Owain jested.
”Then what is approach gonna be to take back the city sir?”
Kreig pulled out a map and spread it over the table. “We have the home ground advantage. In theory they shouldn’t be able to use their spirits for long. We just have to wear them down with overwhelming force. We have to account for the possibility of the representatives as well however.”
“I will lead the assault. Once we are in two groups will attack here and here.” said Arkasia pointing to two bridges on the map. The city was cut in half by a large man made river. “We cut off their access to the city, and clear it. We will need our strongest groups at these locations. It will be their job to receive any soldier coming from the castle. Since the leaders will also come from the castle they have to be ready for this as well.” order Arkasia.
”As we clear the city we will have Scion raise a large spiritual veil over the city. Once we push up far enough we will essentially choke them out of the city.” continued Krieg.
“Ugh, so we are depending on them to clean up the city as we do all the work.” said a knight with sigh.
Owain had his doubts, “I don’t like it, I still feel like we’re just playing into their hands”
“They took our most important resource, and now just sit on it waiting…” Arkasia said. “This is no doubt a trap. They probably even know we are coming, but we can’t abandon it.”
“Should we not at least gauge the situation before an attack…? Who knows what they have up their sleeve? I’m telling you I don’t like this one bit” Owain said biting his lip.
Arkasia looked at Owain. “Do you have some sort of plan of your own?”asked Arkasia. “Any scouts sent for a closer look don’t come back.”
“No…” Owain trailed off, not wanting to share what he had been thinking of.
“Plans may change, but for now this is all we have until we know more.” said Arkasia. “We also won’t have our full force since most of our new troops are still in training. Of course there are exceptions, but I don’t want to go in with amateurs.”
“How many men can we spare then?” Owain asked
“Around five hundred,” answered Krieg. “We need to leave enough here to defend the city.”
“Tch” Owain tutted “barely even a numbers advantage, and they know more about us than we do about them… I really don’t like this”
Arkasia stood up straight, and smiled.“Have more faith in us.” she said.
“I haven’t been sitting around doing nothing.” answered Krieg with a smirk.
“It’s not that I don’t have faith in you Sir, in a fair battle there’s no way we would lose… but the cursed don’t play fair and that’s what worries me” Owain said, ever cautious of going into battle without weighing up every option.
Krieg kept his smile. “They slipped up.” he said. “In my time away from Arkasia I learned about a system they have been using. This is their main way of communicating. Sadly my method wasn’t fine tuned in time to help us in Masario, but if we can find a way to interrupt this. They will be fighting us blind.”
Owain raised an eyebrow, “how exactly did you find this out?” he asked, somewhat suspicious of the lack of explanation.
Krieg looked to Owain and stroked his beard. “I’ll admit it was by luck.” said Krieg. “While near the Forests of Origin I was ambushed by a group of seemingly trained cultists. Luckily for me I made friends within the forest. We took out who we believed to be the one holding their veil, but they didn’t succumb to the curse. Meaning all of them were of power enough to support their own veil. After this however their formation was utter trash, and we dominated the remainders with only the two of us.”
“After what happened at Masario we learned they are able to use their veils for a lot more than just simple survival.” said Arkasia. “They have learned many different techniques using them. It wasn’t hard to put the pieces together after that. Its not to hard to surmise they can communicate with it some how.” said Arkasia. “Our main plan with be to cancel out their veils.”
“Huh…?” said Owain, surprised at this information. He wasn’t sure he was entirely happy with Kriegs explanation, it didn’t seem like him to discover things by chance, however, if he wasn’t told the full story now he doubted asking again would have any result.
“Pardon me Sir but shouldn’t we prepare our forces now? The more we stay put I believe it will become a disadvantage for us as they can proceed themselves to better defend themselves against our attacks.” said Ari.
“That’s why we move out tomorrow, preparations are about finished.” said Arkasia.
Owain still wasn’t satisfied about the blatant trap they were walking into with no numbers advantage. He stood up, “if we’re going with the original plan, then if you’ll excuse me, my armour needs maintenance”
“You are dismissed Owain.” answered Arkasia. “Are their any other questions?”
“Have you decided what groups will watch the bridge?” asked a female knight.
“Not yet I want to be sure before I assign those teams” answered Arkasia. “They will take the brunt of the assault.”
“I offer to lead one of the bridge teams.” said Nero. “My team is ready.”
“I’ll take the other” Owain said as he left the room. He didn’t trust that any of the other teams were ready, and he knew for sure his was.
“I will consider it, and get back to you two soon,” answered Arkasia. “You are all dismissed. Be ready to move out at dawn!”
“It should have had better defenses than that. I went there myself to make sure. They had to have an inside man of two there.” said Kreig. “Something is seriously wrong with how easy we are being fooled. Them taking that city in a day is ridiculous.”
“We have underestimated Cain before. If what they say is true he has knowledge that spans generations. Right now we may be playing into his hands as well.” said Nero.
“Ari do you have any opinions on this?” asked Nero looking to her. He said trying to get her involved.
”No sir as I’m not really familiar with Raltese so I cannot say much. But do we have an estimate of how many soldiers they have in the city? ”
“It is a relatively small force. About 300 - 400 soldiers. Which makes the time frame in which this happened even more bizarre.” answered Kreig.
“We’re missing something, I’m sure of it” Owain chimed in, “it’s absolutely illogical unless they have something we don’t”
“Owain, your report from the attack on the city,” Arkasia started. “you said the man was changing the citizens. You even said that the man hoped to †˜acquire’ you?”
Owain nodded, “indeed, seemed he had some way of controlling people, I’m unsure under what conditions though, most likely he could manipulate the dead”
“We don’t have enough information to make any speculations, but if they had more people like him? You could virtually turn the city on itself.” said Krieg.
“Frankly it’s disgusting, he was disgusting, although I’m upset I couldn’t get more information from him” Owain said, looking as though he had a bad taste in his mouth.
”So we are dealing with enemy soldiers and probably an unknown dead army of our own people as well is what you’re saying?”
“Something like that,” said Nero.
“Scaaary,” said a knight from the back of the room. “How do we even fight something like that?”
“With weapons.” said Arkasia. “You have a sword. Use it. They die like any other enemy.”
”Though how can well tell them apart from our own soldiers, won’t they be having the same equipment as us?”[
“Their movements are nothing like ours. Pay close attention to the way they act. You Ari, should be able to tell after the attack.” answered Arkasia. “For those of you that were not there. Look for jerkish movements. Their bodies don’t work the same way, but they are easier to defeat. So they shouldn't be much of a problem for us as long as we don’t let ourselves get overwhelmed.”
“Really, they were slow enough for even me to keep up” Owain jested.
”Then what is approach gonna be to take back the city sir?”
Kreig pulled out a map and spread it over the table. “We have the home ground advantage. In theory they shouldn’t be able to use their spirits for long. We just have to wear them down with overwhelming force. We have to account for the possibility of the representatives as well however.”
“I will lead the assault. Once we are in two groups will attack here and here.” said Arkasia pointing to two bridges on the map. The city was cut in half by a large man made river. “We cut off their access to the city, and clear it. We will need our strongest groups at these locations. It will be their job to receive any soldier coming from the castle. Since the leaders will also come from the castle they have to be ready for this as well.” order Arkasia.
”As we clear the city we will have Scion raise a large spiritual veil over the city. Once we push up far enough we will essentially choke them out of the city.” continued Krieg.
“Ugh, so we are depending on them to clean up the city as we do all the work.” said a knight with sigh.
Owain had his doubts, “I don’t like it, I still feel like we’re just playing into their hands”
“They took our most important resource, and now just sit on it waiting…” Arkasia said. “This is no doubt a trap. They probably even know we are coming, but we can’t abandon it.”
“Should we not at least gauge the situation before an attack…? Who knows what they have up their sleeve? I’m telling you I don’t like this one bit” Owain said biting his lip.
Arkasia looked at Owain. “Do you have some sort of plan of your own?”asked Arkasia. “Any scouts sent for a closer look don’t come back.”
“No…” Owain trailed off, not wanting to share what he had been thinking of.
“Plans may change, but for now this is all we have until we know more.” said Arkasia. “We also won’t have our full force since most of our new troops are still in training. Of course there are exceptions, but I don’t want to go in with amateurs.”
“How many men can we spare then?” Owain asked
“Around five hundred,” answered Krieg. “We need to leave enough here to defend the city.”
“Tch” Owain tutted “barely even a numbers advantage, and they know more about us than we do about them… I really don’t like this”
Arkasia stood up straight, and smiled.“Have more faith in us.” she said.
“I haven’t been sitting around doing nothing.” answered Krieg with a smirk.
“It’s not that I don’t have faith in you Sir, in a fair battle there’s no way we would lose… but the cursed don’t play fair and that’s what worries me” Owain said, ever cautious of going into battle without weighing up every option.
Krieg kept his smile. “They slipped up.” he said. “In my time away from Arkasia I learned about a system they have been using. This is their main way of communicating. Sadly my method wasn’t fine tuned in time to help us in Masario, but if we can find a way to interrupt this. They will be fighting us blind.”
Owain raised an eyebrow, “how exactly did you find this out?” he asked, somewhat suspicious of the lack of explanation.
Krieg looked to Owain and stroked his beard. “I’ll admit it was by luck.” said Krieg. “While near the Forests of Origin I was ambushed by a group of seemingly trained cultists. Luckily for me I made friends within the forest. We took out who we believed to be the one holding their veil, but they didn’t succumb to the curse. Meaning all of them were of power enough to support their own veil. After this however their formation was utter trash, and we dominated the remainders with only the two of us.”
“After what happened at Masario we learned they are able to use their veils for a lot more than just simple survival.” said Arkasia. “They have learned many different techniques using them. It wasn’t hard to put the pieces together after that. Its not to hard to surmise they can communicate with it some how.” said Arkasia. “Our main plan with be to cancel out their veils.”
“Huh…?” said Owain, surprised at this information. He wasn’t sure he was entirely happy with Kriegs explanation, it didn’t seem like him to discover things by chance, however, if he wasn’t told the full story now he doubted asking again would have any result.
“Pardon me Sir but shouldn’t we prepare our forces now? The more we stay put I believe it will become a disadvantage for us as they can proceed themselves to better defend themselves against our attacks.” said Ari.
“That’s why we move out tomorrow, preparations are about finished.” said Arkasia.
Owain still wasn’t satisfied about the blatant trap they were walking into with no numbers advantage. He stood up, “if we’re going with the original plan, then if you’ll excuse me, my armour needs maintenance”
“You are dismissed Owain.” answered Arkasia. “Are their any other questions?”
“Have you decided what groups will watch the bridge?” asked a female knight.
“Not yet I want to be sure before I assign those teams” answered Arkasia. “They will take the brunt of the assault.”
“I offer to lead one of the bridge teams.” said Nero. “My team is ready.”
“I’ll take the other” Owain said as he left the room. He didn’t trust that any of the other teams were ready, and he knew for sure his was.
“I will consider it, and get back to you two soon,” answered Arkasia. “You are all dismissed. Be ready to move out at dawn!”
0
Cinia Pacifica
Ojou-sama Writer
(This is a joint post starring: TheLoneGentleman and Cinia Pacifica.)
The night of the party was fast approaching. Leona, and Louise were making sure that they both looked their best for the party. They would not even consider being anything less than the center of attention. The two had went shopping for clothes in the days before the party so now they just had to put it all together. Their entrance would be perfect.
The party would be in the ballroom of the Augusta estate, and influential people from all over Masario would be at their best. Margaret was downstairs making sure things like food, wine, and music were all finalized. She would not have her party turn into chaos. Especially when it was for none other than Louise. Talia made sure that all the invitations were sent to the proper places, and Xavier helped in the kitchen where he was needed. Everyone in the house had their jobs.
“So, are you excited for the party? Margaret got the best musicians in Masario,” said Leona as she helped Louise with her dress.
“Mn, I’m not quite sure. I suppose at this point I’m too used to the parties I used to enjoy,” Louise replied. Her dress was very glamorous - a pink and white frilled corset-style tank top. Down the center was a pale brown strap with a zipper which Louise asked a maid to pull up for her. The neck had small gold studs and it was adorned with white lace.The chest area was full of flowery patterns along with sheer, tulle material. On the two sides of the zipper were gold strings. She also wore pink tulle gloves that covered the entirety of both her arms. A light-pink skirt adorned with red roses and small red and pink beads; which added a certain pattern over the smooth fabric, there was a layer of lace at it's ends. Lastly, she wore knee-high socks and pink pumps with very pale pink-white, criss-crossed blush streaked socks with ribbon patterns. Atop the sock under the shoes were some ruffles and laces. “I do however, love to dress up grand.” Smiling, Louise flashed an otherworldly pose. “Yes, they actually do that from where I came from.”
Leona tried to mimic the pose, but fell short of Louise’s charm. “That is rather interesting,” said Leona laughing at herself in the mirror. “One of these days I might have to take a vacation with you, and attend some of these parties. I might learn a thing or two.”
“Oh, is that so now?” Louise asked, turning towards Leona III, showing her how the pose is truly done; with a brilliant smile. “You may never want to leave if you come with me, however,” Louise confidently stated. If not for her objectives, she wouldn’t even come back to Masario of all places, after all.
“There will always be a reason to come back. My life will always be here with my family. Or what’s left of it,” she said laughing. “It would be good to get away for a little while, though.” Smoothing out her black and gold Chinese dress she was proud of the figure she maintained. She collapsed a black and gold fan with white feathers and set it on the desk while she did her make-up.
“Well, isn’t that great?” Louise sarcastically commented. “That said, I wonder how Margaret is dressing up for the night… ” she hadn’t taken a glance even now. As she was too preoccupied with preparing herself for the event.
“She seems like the type to try something daring,” answered Leona. Suddenly there was a knock on the door. Seeing that Louise and Leona were dressed Leona III called out. “Come in,” she said. The door opened up and in came Xavier. Bowing slightly, he stayed near the door. “We will be starting the party shortly. Many of the guests have arrived,” he informed the two ladies.
“Excellent we will be down soon,” answered Leona III.
“So, it’s about time, hm?” Louise said, smiling. She was quite fond of her attire at the moment, more so than the party itself. However, it needed to be shown off, that’s where the other pleasure of wearing a pretty dress come from. The first and foremost pleasure would be the nice and enchanting feeling that the wearer herself would feel. “I suppose it’s time to see what Margaret can really whip up.”
“I suppose it is. I hope I can remember how to dance after all these years,” Leona said with a hand on her cheek. Leona finished up and grabbed her fan from the table. “Let us make a proper entrance then?” Leona walked to the door as Xavier held it open waiting for them to pass.
“Dance, huh? Who’d we even dance with?” Louise questioned, tilting her head. She walked with Leona towards the door.
“Anyone that asks,” Leona answered. “Unless you would like to dance with me? It will be like when my daughter was little.”
“Hah, maybe some other time, mother,” Louise mockingly answered, refusing to be a true daughter-like figure to Leona III.
They walked down the hallways as the sound of music, and small talk filled the house. Margaret had invited quite a few people on short notice. As they stepped down the stairs into the few of the crowd all attention turned on them.
The night of the party was fast approaching. Leona, and Louise were making sure that they both looked their best for the party. They would not even consider being anything less than the center of attention. The two had went shopping for clothes in the days before the party so now they just had to put it all together. Their entrance would be perfect.
The party would be in the ballroom of the Augusta estate, and influential people from all over Masario would be at their best. Margaret was downstairs making sure things like food, wine, and music were all finalized. She would not have her party turn into chaos. Especially when it was for none other than Louise. Talia made sure that all the invitations were sent to the proper places, and Xavier helped in the kitchen where he was needed. Everyone in the house had their jobs.
“So, are you excited for the party? Margaret got the best musicians in Masario,” said Leona as she helped Louise with her dress.
“Mn, I’m not quite sure. I suppose at this point I’m too used to the parties I used to enjoy,” Louise replied. Her dress was very glamorous - a pink and white frilled corset-style tank top. Down the center was a pale brown strap with a zipper which Louise asked a maid to pull up for her. The neck had small gold studs and it was adorned with white lace.The chest area was full of flowery patterns along with sheer, tulle material. On the two sides of the zipper were gold strings. She also wore pink tulle gloves that covered the entirety of both her arms. A light-pink skirt adorned with red roses and small red and pink beads; which added a certain pattern over the smooth fabric, there was a layer of lace at it's ends. Lastly, she wore knee-high socks and pink pumps with very pale pink-white, criss-crossed blush streaked socks with ribbon patterns. Atop the sock under the shoes were some ruffles and laces. “I do however, love to dress up grand.” Smiling, Louise flashed an otherworldly pose. “Yes, they actually do that from where I came from.”
Leona tried to mimic the pose, but fell short of Louise’s charm. “That is rather interesting,” said Leona laughing at herself in the mirror. “One of these days I might have to take a vacation with you, and attend some of these parties. I might learn a thing or two.”
“Oh, is that so now?” Louise asked, turning towards Leona III, showing her how the pose is truly done; with a brilliant smile. “You may never want to leave if you come with me, however,” Louise confidently stated. If not for her objectives, she wouldn’t even come back to Masario of all places, after all.
“There will always be a reason to come back. My life will always be here with my family. Or what’s left of it,” she said laughing. “It would be good to get away for a little while, though.” Smoothing out her black and gold Chinese dress she was proud of the figure she maintained. She collapsed a black and gold fan with white feathers and set it on the desk while she did her make-up.
“Well, isn’t that great?” Louise sarcastically commented. “That said, I wonder how Margaret is dressing up for the night… ” she hadn’t taken a glance even now. As she was too preoccupied with preparing herself for the event.
“She seems like the type to try something daring,” answered Leona. Suddenly there was a knock on the door. Seeing that Louise and Leona were dressed Leona III called out. “Come in,” she said. The door opened up and in came Xavier. Bowing slightly, he stayed near the door. “We will be starting the party shortly. Many of the guests have arrived,” he informed the two ladies.
“Excellent we will be down soon,” answered Leona III.
“So, it’s about time, hm?” Louise said, smiling. She was quite fond of her attire at the moment, more so than the party itself. However, it needed to be shown off, that’s where the other pleasure of wearing a pretty dress come from. The first and foremost pleasure would be the nice and enchanting feeling that the wearer herself would feel. “I suppose it’s time to see what Margaret can really whip up.”
“I suppose it is. I hope I can remember how to dance after all these years,” Leona said with a hand on her cheek. Leona finished up and grabbed her fan from the table. “Let us make a proper entrance then?” Leona walked to the door as Xavier held it open waiting for them to pass.
“Dance, huh? Who’d we even dance with?” Louise questioned, tilting her head. She walked with Leona towards the door.
“Anyone that asks,” Leona answered. “Unless you would like to dance with me? It will be like when my daughter was little.”
“Hah, maybe some other time, mother,” Louise mockingly answered, refusing to be a true daughter-like figure to Leona III.
They walked down the hallways as the sound of music, and small talk filled the house. Margaret had invited quite a few people on short notice. As they stepped down the stairs into the few of the crowd all attention turned on them.
0
(This is a joint post starring: TheLoneGentleman and Cinia Pacifica.)
When Louise walked down the flight of stairs, along with Leona III, the two descended gracefully with each step. Louise noticed the pleasant faces; all graced by her glamorous and beautiful presence, or was it due to her charisma alone and not the beauty? At this point, she’d only think the former, as that was far more likely from the witnessed reactions she always found before her gaze. Hearing clapping noises subsequently, her doubts were blown away; as they were music to her ears. Louise smiled; showering the people with her charms. “Their eyes are far too easy to please, or is it just me?” Louise whispered to Leona III who stepped down alongside her.
“With that entrance who wouldn’t be impressed?” Replied Leona in a hushed tone. Suddenly the crowd parted, a figure in a red and black high-low cocktail dress. It showed off her leg and supple body perfectly. “It’s about time you two headed down. What kind of party would this be without our guest of honor?” said Margaret looking at Louise. “Come, I have a few people for you to meet, my dear Louise.”
“A boring party, obviously?” Louise replied; portraying her confidence with appropriate use of her facial features. There were no signs of restraint in her part, nor a spec of hesitation in showing her off her charm and attractiveness. Following Margaret - who appeared to be quite attractive herself unlike usual - Louise followed as she walked gracefully, with fingers of both her hands joint together.
Escorting Louise over to a group of people - who were all gathered in a circle - they were drinking wine, and joking amongst themselves. As Margaret, Louise, and Leona III arrived, they went somewhat silent. “Louise, these are the main financial backers behind the war, myself included, of course. We will make sure you are well taken care of,” said Margaret. In the group there were four men and two women. One of them stood out, however. A young man with red hair and dashing good looks. He wore an elegant outfit that showed his slim yet well-built physique. His eyes were a bright gold He seemed to be significantly different from the group, and for some reason, Louise couldn’t seem to take her eyes off of him.
Meeting her gaze, he smiled. “It is a pleasure to meet you, High Priestess Louise. I am Adair Bell,” he said reaching out and kissing Louise’s hand.
“It is a pleasure to meet you, Adair,” Louise retracted her right hand that was kissed mere seconds ago, her smile unwavering. There is a strange air around this person… something in Louise’s guts informed her of that as she looked at Adair. Maintaining her eye-candy expression - she shifted her eyes to the others. “May I have the honor of knowing the names of you all, too?” Louise asked politely in an elegant ladylike manner - her tone of voice just right. Just because there was a black rose amongst white flowers; she wouldn’t ignore the white ones out of concern for why a black one was there.
“I am Rayner Fania, and this is my wife Gwyndolin,” said a tall man with thinning brown hair and a black suit. His wife was much younger than him, and wore a provocative purple dress. The both stepped up and shook Louise’s hand.
“Layla Shania ,” said the woman next to the couple who bowed politely. The others introduced themselves one by one.
“I see, it is a pleasure to meet you all. I thank you all for your support,” Louise replied with a curt bow as she closed her eyes for a short moment in order to have her politeness depicted clearly.
“It is nice to see you all again,” said Leona with a slight bow of her head. She had had the pleasure of meeting them all before, but Adair wasn’t as sociable the last time they met.
As they went around and introduced - the rest of the music began to play - people began to pair up to dance. The first song seemed like a faster-paced waltz. Adair walked up to Louise, reaching out his hand. “May I have a dance?” he asked politely.
As unfortunate as it was for this man - of all men in the ballroom - to ask for her hand. As the High Priestess. No, as a lady receiving support from this man via financial means; she couldn’t bring up a single qualm to refuse. Such principles helped her develop important ties to people of great positions throughout her life. Him having a strange impression and aura in him was a terrible reasoning to the general public. It’d be a shameful reasoning; disgraceful. Louise would never use such feeble excuses. “Of course,” Louise answered, bringing her hand forward as a sign of her acceptance while showing a graceful expression to please the eyes.
Leona was glad that Louise found a dance partner despite their earlier conversation, and she was glad that she had yet to be asked. She hadn’t danced in ages, and wouldn’t know where to start.
Taking her hand, Adair guided her out to the center of the room. Facing Louise, he took his right hand and placed it over her waist. With his left arm slightly bent, he took her hand lightly. Once he was sure Louise was ready - he stepped out with his left foot; leading her into a waltz as the music picked up.
“You are quite good at this,” Adair praised as they danced almost as if they both had danced before. There wasn’t a step out of place. “You must be nervous though. About heading off to war?”
“Heh, who wouldn’t be?” Louise sarcastically answered. She expected anyone - coming to a grand party - to know how to dance. She was - however - anxious if Leona III could dance properly due to how she is... but didn’t mull over it much; so as to not cloud her mind with unnecessary thoughts. “Mn, what leads you to such a conclusion, if I may ask?” Louise liked the music, the violins were being played out near-perfectly. Margaret did this one thing right, Louise praised her internally, she indeed hired the best musicians of Masario city. The melody of the music blended in harmoniously as the two danced flawlessly. Does he wish to be a knight, or something? To bring up a question regarding a war of all things. Perhaps it’s just men being men. They never change. Nor can I say anything different about us women, I suppose.
Adair laughed at her obvious sarcasm. “You aren’t nervous at all. I’ve seen your type before,” he said without coming out and saying what was on his mind fully. “You believe that you have all the answers, don’t you?”
“Oh? Then why ask if I was nervous - in the first place?” Louise replied with her expression still unchanging. “Do you yourself believe that you have all the answers?” She asked back directly, it was rather surprising that she maintained her politeness and grace against this man, even now.
“I was simply curious as to how you would respond,” he said smiling as he looked into her eyes. “With this ever changing world… Even if at one time you had an answer. It can change at a moments notice,” he said as he continued to lead the dance. To the spectators and the dancers around them it would appear that they were simply talking pleasantries. “What is it that you truly want, Louise?” he asked as his eyes began to shine slightly.
Louise closed her eyes to think for a slight moment. “Hmm. I will not deny this, there is no doubt that things are indeed - changing,” Louise begun, as she opened her eyes, they tersely shined, too. “As one affected by the passage of time, would you not want to take your sweet time to find out? Or, are you in such a haste despite being devoid of limitations?” Louise smirked. For the first time, her expression darkened.
“I could wait centuries to find out, but I do have a schedule to keep,” answered Adair. Seeing Louise’s expression darken, he smiled. “The one truth is known only to a few. Why don’t we just shatter this world?” he said knowing the the girl in front of him would know exactly who he was in that moment.
“Just as you shattered me, once?” Louise asked back, still with her smirk. “Are you that bored with this tiny world that you wish to break it apart that badly - for your amusement? Or is there another reason you seek to do so?”
“You will just have to wait for the end of the show like everyone else I’m afraid,” answered Adair. “You are already on the path aren’t you?”
“Then my answer to your previous question shall be the same - you have to wait and see for what I truly wish,” Louise finally answered, smiling normally like usual again. “The path, you say?” Louise slightly narrowed her eyes as she asked. This man’s expressions were rather tough to read, even for a person like her.
Adair looked into her eyes and smiled as if he could read her mind. At that time the song ended and the two came to a stop. “I will leave you with that for now, but the next time we dance. It may be the last,” he said into her ear.
“Perhaps the time we meet, I’ll grace you with a song of my own. They say I’m quite well with singing,” Louise replied just as he spoke into her ear after closing her eyes.
“It will be a duet to shake the world,” he said as he released her and stepped back. He bowed politely. “I thank you for an excellent dance, Louise.”
“Same to you, Adair,” Louise pronounced the name with much feeling of sarcasm. “I won’t pray to meet you again - as I feel it is simply destiny’s whim - but I do feel that the next meeting may not quite go as you expect.”
Adair smiled to himself, and said not another word. Turning, he walked off disappearing into the crowd. Leona walked up and nudged Louise gently. “Stole another heart, have you?” she said teasingly.
“You haven’t felt it?” Louise turned to ask, with a rather out-of-place serious expression.
Leona looked puzzled by her serious tone. “Felt what?” She asked.
“Nevermind. Perhaps I’ll tell you about it another time,” Louise dropped the grim face, and abruptly flipped her eye-pleasing smile in a flash. “We should totally dance as… buddies?” Louise asked, at the end of her sentence, she couldn’t pick an appropriate word, even †˜buddies’ would be a strange word among ladies, especially for ones of their rich status.
“Sure, perhaps you can refresh me on the basics,” she said laughing slightly. “Buddies. I have yet to be called that one.”
“I felt rather baffled myself about that. I’m picky for words sometimes, so this was an error on my part,” Louise answered, laughing.
The rest of the party went without incident, and Margaret was happy with the outcome. Almost everyone was in attendance, but somewhere along the lines one of her guests left early. Being the host she was embarrassed that she didn’t notice, but there was little she could do at the point. She would infer about it later. She was more happy that Louise had a good time at the party she set up. They wouldn’t have another chance to do it again for a long time.
When Louise walked down the flight of stairs, along with Leona III, the two descended gracefully with each step. Louise noticed the pleasant faces; all graced by her glamorous and beautiful presence, or was it due to her charisma alone and not the beauty? At this point, she’d only think the former, as that was far more likely from the witnessed reactions she always found before her gaze. Hearing clapping noises subsequently, her doubts were blown away; as they were music to her ears. Louise smiled; showering the people with her charms. “Their eyes are far too easy to please, or is it just me?” Louise whispered to Leona III who stepped down alongside her.
“With that entrance who wouldn’t be impressed?” Replied Leona in a hushed tone. Suddenly the crowd parted, a figure in a red and black high-low cocktail dress. It showed off her leg and supple body perfectly. “It’s about time you two headed down. What kind of party would this be without our guest of honor?” said Margaret looking at Louise. “Come, I have a few people for you to meet, my dear Louise.”
“A boring party, obviously?” Louise replied; portraying her confidence with appropriate use of her facial features. There were no signs of restraint in her part, nor a spec of hesitation in showing her off her charm and attractiveness. Following Margaret - who appeared to be quite attractive herself unlike usual - Louise followed as she walked gracefully, with fingers of both her hands joint together.
Escorting Louise over to a group of people - who were all gathered in a circle - they were drinking wine, and joking amongst themselves. As Margaret, Louise, and Leona III arrived, they went somewhat silent. “Louise, these are the main financial backers behind the war, myself included, of course. We will make sure you are well taken care of,” said Margaret. In the group there were four men and two women. One of them stood out, however. A young man with red hair and dashing good looks. He wore an elegant outfit that showed his slim yet well-built physique. His eyes were a bright gold He seemed to be significantly different from the group, and for some reason, Louise couldn’t seem to take her eyes off of him.
Meeting her gaze, he smiled. “It is a pleasure to meet you, High Priestess Louise. I am Adair Bell,” he said reaching out and kissing Louise’s hand.
“It is a pleasure to meet you, Adair,” Louise retracted her right hand that was kissed mere seconds ago, her smile unwavering. There is a strange air around this person… something in Louise’s guts informed her of that as she looked at Adair. Maintaining her eye-candy expression - she shifted her eyes to the others. “May I have the honor of knowing the names of you all, too?” Louise asked politely in an elegant ladylike manner - her tone of voice just right. Just because there was a black rose amongst white flowers; she wouldn’t ignore the white ones out of concern for why a black one was there.
“I am Rayner Fania, and this is my wife Gwyndolin,” said a tall man with thinning brown hair and a black suit. His wife was much younger than him, and wore a provocative purple dress. The both stepped up and shook Louise’s hand.
“Layla Shania ,” said the woman next to the couple who bowed politely. The others introduced themselves one by one.
“I see, it is a pleasure to meet you all. I thank you all for your support,” Louise replied with a curt bow as she closed her eyes for a short moment in order to have her politeness depicted clearly.
“It is nice to see you all again,” said Leona with a slight bow of her head. She had had the pleasure of meeting them all before, but Adair wasn’t as sociable the last time they met.
As they went around and introduced - the rest of the music began to play - people began to pair up to dance. The first song seemed like a faster-paced waltz. Adair walked up to Louise, reaching out his hand. “May I have a dance?” he asked politely.
As unfortunate as it was for this man - of all men in the ballroom - to ask for her hand. As the High Priestess. No, as a lady receiving support from this man via financial means; she couldn’t bring up a single qualm to refuse. Such principles helped her develop important ties to people of great positions throughout her life. Him having a strange impression and aura in him was a terrible reasoning to the general public. It’d be a shameful reasoning; disgraceful. Louise would never use such feeble excuses. “Of course,” Louise answered, bringing her hand forward as a sign of her acceptance while showing a graceful expression to please the eyes.
Leona was glad that Louise found a dance partner despite their earlier conversation, and she was glad that she had yet to be asked. She hadn’t danced in ages, and wouldn’t know where to start.
Taking her hand, Adair guided her out to the center of the room. Facing Louise, he took his right hand and placed it over her waist. With his left arm slightly bent, he took her hand lightly. Once he was sure Louise was ready - he stepped out with his left foot; leading her into a waltz as the music picked up.
“You are quite good at this,” Adair praised as they danced almost as if they both had danced before. There wasn’t a step out of place. “You must be nervous though. About heading off to war?”
“Heh, who wouldn’t be?” Louise sarcastically answered. She expected anyone - coming to a grand party - to know how to dance. She was - however - anxious if Leona III could dance properly due to how she is... but didn’t mull over it much; so as to not cloud her mind with unnecessary thoughts. “Mn, what leads you to such a conclusion, if I may ask?” Louise liked the music, the violins were being played out near-perfectly. Margaret did this one thing right, Louise praised her internally, she indeed hired the best musicians of Masario city. The melody of the music blended in harmoniously as the two danced flawlessly. Does he wish to be a knight, or something? To bring up a question regarding a war of all things. Perhaps it’s just men being men. They never change. Nor can I say anything different about us women, I suppose.
Adair laughed at her obvious sarcasm. “You aren’t nervous at all. I’ve seen your type before,” he said without coming out and saying what was on his mind fully. “You believe that you have all the answers, don’t you?”
“Oh? Then why ask if I was nervous - in the first place?” Louise replied with her expression still unchanging. “Do you yourself believe that you have all the answers?” She asked back directly, it was rather surprising that she maintained her politeness and grace against this man, even now.
“I was simply curious as to how you would respond,” he said smiling as he looked into her eyes. “With this ever changing world… Even if at one time you had an answer. It can change at a moments notice,” he said as he continued to lead the dance. To the spectators and the dancers around them it would appear that they were simply talking pleasantries. “What is it that you truly want, Louise?” he asked as his eyes began to shine slightly.
Louise closed her eyes to think for a slight moment. “Hmm. I will not deny this, there is no doubt that things are indeed - changing,” Louise begun, as she opened her eyes, they tersely shined, too. “As one affected by the passage of time, would you not want to take your sweet time to find out? Or, are you in such a haste despite being devoid of limitations?” Louise smirked. For the first time, her expression darkened.
“I could wait centuries to find out, but I do have a schedule to keep,” answered Adair. Seeing Louise’s expression darken, he smiled. “The one truth is known only to a few. Why don’t we just shatter this world?” he said knowing the the girl in front of him would know exactly who he was in that moment.
“Just as you shattered me, once?” Louise asked back, still with her smirk. “Are you that bored with this tiny world that you wish to break it apart that badly - for your amusement? Or is there another reason you seek to do so?”
“You will just have to wait for the end of the show like everyone else I’m afraid,” answered Adair. “You are already on the path aren’t you?”
“Then my answer to your previous question shall be the same - you have to wait and see for what I truly wish,” Louise finally answered, smiling normally like usual again. “The path, you say?” Louise slightly narrowed her eyes as she asked. This man’s expressions were rather tough to read, even for a person like her.
Adair looked into her eyes and smiled as if he could read her mind. At that time the song ended and the two came to a stop. “I will leave you with that for now, but the next time we dance. It may be the last,” he said into her ear.
“Perhaps the time we meet, I’ll grace you with a song of my own. They say I’m quite well with singing,” Louise replied just as he spoke into her ear after closing her eyes.
“It will be a duet to shake the world,” he said as he released her and stepped back. He bowed politely. “I thank you for an excellent dance, Louise.”
“Same to you, Adair,” Louise pronounced the name with much feeling of sarcasm. “I won’t pray to meet you again - as I feel it is simply destiny’s whim - but I do feel that the next meeting may not quite go as you expect.”
Adair smiled to himself, and said not another word. Turning, he walked off disappearing into the crowd. Leona walked up and nudged Louise gently. “Stole another heart, have you?” she said teasingly.
“You haven’t felt it?” Louise turned to ask, with a rather out-of-place serious expression.
Leona looked puzzled by her serious tone. “Felt what?” She asked.
“Nevermind. Perhaps I’ll tell you about it another time,” Louise dropped the grim face, and abruptly flipped her eye-pleasing smile in a flash. “We should totally dance as… buddies?” Louise asked, at the end of her sentence, she couldn’t pick an appropriate word, even †˜buddies’ would be a strange word among ladies, especially for ones of their rich status.
“Sure, perhaps you can refresh me on the basics,” she said laughing slightly. “Buddies. I have yet to be called that one.”
“I felt rather baffled myself about that. I’m picky for words sometimes, so this was an error on my part,” Louise answered, laughing.
The rest of the party went without incident, and Margaret was happy with the outcome. Almost everyone was in attendance, but somewhere along the lines one of her guests left early. Being the host she was embarrassed that she didn’t notice, but there was little she could do at the point. She would infer about it later. She was more happy that Louise had a good time at the party she set up. They wouldn’t have another chance to do it again for a long time.
0
(This is a Joint post starring: TheLoneGentleman, , Valentine_K1S5, Katsucha, Bagman and Galahad_Meals.)
Owain sat in the round room he had designated as the meeting place for his group. The circular table filled most of it. It was a few minutes before the time he had set for them to meet. Owain set his mind right for the conversation, no, briefing he was about to give. He was worried somewhat by the lack of experience this unit had together but he was sure things would iron themselves out, and frankly, the plan worried him more than anything.
“They should be here soon” he noted aloud.
Razta and Adelina were the first to arrive, and when they entered Razta was holding her shield, helmet, and other supplies. His face showed that he was less that pleased.
“If you weren’t in such a rush you wouldn’t have run into me.” Adelina said pouting.
“I said I was sorry! I didn’t expect you to be around that corner…” answered Razta.
Owain smirked at this scene, “what’s up, lovebirds?” he laughed, his sarcasm almost unnoticeable.
“Being blamed for stuff I didn’t do again.” answered Razta with a sorrowful expressio.
“L-Lovebirds?” said Adelina. “You must be mistaken, this man is a brute. I have much higher standards than this!”
Reymond walked in, his face practically inside his book. “I have arrived on time?” he said from behind his book.
“Indeed you have Reymond” Owain said still laughing, “You need to lighten up or you’ll hurt poor Razta’s feelings, Adelina, I was kidding” Adelina scoffed and sat on one of the chairs in the room.
“Sir Owain you can joke around after the mission don’t you think you should fill us in what exactly is your plan?”
“I’ll decide how I do my job, Ari, thank you very much” Owain said, not appreciating Ari’s input, “and if I was the one planning this mission I could tell you the plan would be very much different, sadly I’m not in Arkasia’s place and I wont talk badly of my superiors, or tell them they are doing their job wrong in fear of reprimand” Owain stressed that last point.
Ari looked at him with slight contempt, but left it at that. “Yes sir,” she answered.
“Did that meeting go that poorly?” asked Razta reading his captains mood.
“Honestly I’m not sure, but something seems incredibly fishy if you ask me” Owain sighed, “anyway I nominated us to be one of the teams securing the main bridge in Raltese”
“Bridge?” said Adelina. [/“Are we on some sort of defense team?”
“Quite the opposite, Raltese has been taken by the Cursed, we’re going to take it back… without a numbers advantage it seems” Owain revealed.
“Doesn’t sound like very pleasant odds.” responded Reymond. Masaki and Anastas walked in hoping that they weren’t too late.
“Sorry for the wait. Got caught up.” said Anastas as he walked over to the group.
”Yeah, there was something that we had to do.” Masaki said as he looked around.
“Take your time why don’t you? Not like we’re moving out soon or anything” Owain said, this time dripping with sarcasm, “Well now that we’re all here I can explain the situation” he brought out a map of Raltese and spread it across the table.
“Raltese was taken in under a day, by an army of cursed troops, how they managed it, I have no clue, scary thing is no one else does either” Owain said “We could well be walking into a trap, however, it’s our job to take it back. The job I nominated for us is retaking the bridge in Raltese, a pivotal point in securing the city, unfortunately because of this it will be well defended, making our lives more tricky, but I think we of all people can handle it. In terms of strategy, we, for the most part plan on overwhelming the Cursed before they have the chance to react. For our formation I want Razta and Masaki taking point, I’ll be close behind them, Anastas you should take a wing in out formation and so that you can focus on firing arrows, Ari I’d like you and your Golems to stick close. Reymond you’ll take another wing to fire your projectiles and Adelina stay close to him. Does everyone understand their role?”
“Doesn’t sound too difficult.” answered Razta. “Same plan as Masario.”
This will be interesting. Masaki clenched his fists with a slight grin on his face.
“Don’t get complacent, this will be nothing like Masario, we won’t just be fighting lurching shades, we’ll be facing spirit users and cursed warriors” Owain scolded, “I already told you this is pretty much the hardest job we could hope to have”
“Understood” Ari sarcastically said a little hurt, by how she was spoken to earlier.
”Hmm. . .” Anastas murmured, something clearly bugging him. ”This formation is pretty basic, not to say it won’t work here. My main concern is whatever weapon they could’ve used to claim Raltese in the first place. If they could, they may well wipe our entire formation if we bottlehead onto the bridge. . .
“If it is of a spiritual nature I will do my best to neutralize it.” answered Reymornd. “But I agree we best be ready for anything.”
”If things go grim, I could summon my spirit to help. He’s a bit bloody when it comes to battles, especially if he’s hungry.” Masaki shivered. Oh you know me, always making people scared including you in the way I do my job. TouTetsuOh said to Masaki. Oh stop it you, Masaki responded to his spirit with a teasing smile. Wait, you cannot summon me you bastard! All that you can do is to receive my support from your gloves! TouTetsuOh yelled at him. ”whoops I forgot. nevermind my suggestion then.” Masaki said with a slightly sad smile.
Razta tapped his fist on Masaki’s skull. “Settle down in there you two.” he said laughing. Anastas smirked, feeling somewhat reassured.
“We might have to adapt our strategy in a worst case scenario.” said Adelina. “We’ll make do.”
“We will most likely have back up from Nero at the other side of the bridge, the plan was to make sure nothing could get behind us, if it does we fail, the formation sits like this at the moment because I think it would be best to make sure nothing could slip by. Ideally we would have an extra man to clean up at the back, but that’s not something we can afford at the moment, like I said, we barely outnumber them. If it comes down to it we should be ready to change our tactics” Owain said in response. Masaki was quiet during this meeting since he really didn’t have any ideas of his own. He would just crush anything that stood in his way.
“Is everyone clear? Do I need to go over anything?” Owain asked the room.
”Aye and nay, captain.” Anastas replied.
“Its pretty straight forward.” said Adelina. “I will be ready.”
Owain sat in the round room he had designated as the meeting place for his group. The circular table filled most of it. It was a few minutes before the time he had set for them to meet. Owain set his mind right for the conversation, no, briefing he was about to give. He was worried somewhat by the lack of experience this unit had together but he was sure things would iron themselves out, and frankly, the plan worried him more than anything.
“They should be here soon” he noted aloud.
Razta and Adelina were the first to arrive, and when they entered Razta was holding her shield, helmet, and other supplies. His face showed that he was less that pleased.
“If you weren’t in such a rush you wouldn’t have run into me.” Adelina said pouting.
“I said I was sorry! I didn’t expect you to be around that corner…” answered Razta.
Owain smirked at this scene, “what’s up, lovebirds?” he laughed, his sarcasm almost unnoticeable.
“Being blamed for stuff I didn’t do again.” answered Razta with a sorrowful expressio.
“L-Lovebirds?” said Adelina. “You must be mistaken, this man is a brute. I have much higher standards than this!”
Reymond walked in, his face practically inside his book. “I have arrived on time?” he said from behind his book.
“Indeed you have Reymond” Owain said still laughing, “You need to lighten up or you’ll hurt poor Razta’s feelings, Adelina, I was kidding” Adelina scoffed and sat on one of the chairs in the room.
“Sir Owain you can joke around after the mission don’t you think you should fill us in what exactly is your plan?”
“I’ll decide how I do my job, Ari, thank you very much” Owain said, not appreciating Ari’s input, “and if I was the one planning this mission I could tell you the plan would be very much different, sadly I’m not in Arkasia’s place and I wont talk badly of my superiors, or tell them they are doing their job wrong in fear of reprimand” Owain stressed that last point.
Ari looked at him with slight contempt, but left it at that. “Yes sir,” she answered.
“Did that meeting go that poorly?” asked Razta reading his captains mood.
“Honestly I’m not sure, but something seems incredibly fishy if you ask me” Owain sighed, “anyway I nominated us to be one of the teams securing the main bridge in Raltese”
“Bridge?” said Adelina. [/“Are we on some sort of defense team?”
“Quite the opposite, Raltese has been taken by the Cursed, we’re going to take it back… without a numbers advantage it seems” Owain revealed.
“Doesn’t sound like very pleasant odds.” responded Reymond. Masaki and Anastas walked in hoping that they weren’t too late.
“Sorry for the wait. Got caught up.” said Anastas as he walked over to the group.
”Yeah, there was something that we had to do.” Masaki said as he looked around.
“Take your time why don’t you? Not like we’re moving out soon or anything” Owain said, this time dripping with sarcasm, “Well now that we’re all here I can explain the situation” he brought out a map of Raltese and spread it across the table.
“Raltese was taken in under a day, by an army of cursed troops, how they managed it, I have no clue, scary thing is no one else does either” Owain said “We could well be walking into a trap, however, it’s our job to take it back. The job I nominated for us is retaking the bridge in Raltese, a pivotal point in securing the city, unfortunately because of this it will be well defended, making our lives more tricky, but I think we of all people can handle it. In terms of strategy, we, for the most part plan on overwhelming the Cursed before they have the chance to react. For our formation I want Razta and Masaki taking point, I’ll be close behind them, Anastas you should take a wing in out formation and so that you can focus on firing arrows, Ari I’d like you and your Golems to stick close. Reymond you’ll take another wing to fire your projectiles and Adelina stay close to him. Does everyone understand their role?”
“Doesn’t sound too difficult.” answered Razta. “Same plan as Masario.”
This will be interesting. Masaki clenched his fists with a slight grin on his face.
“Don’t get complacent, this will be nothing like Masario, we won’t just be fighting lurching shades, we’ll be facing spirit users and cursed warriors” Owain scolded, “I already told you this is pretty much the hardest job we could hope to have”
“Understood” Ari sarcastically said a little hurt, by how she was spoken to earlier.
”Hmm. . .” Anastas murmured, something clearly bugging him. ”This formation is pretty basic, not to say it won’t work here. My main concern is whatever weapon they could’ve used to claim Raltese in the first place. If they could, they may well wipe our entire formation if we bottlehead onto the bridge. . .
“If it is of a spiritual nature I will do my best to neutralize it.” answered Reymornd. “But I agree we best be ready for anything.”
”If things go grim, I could summon my spirit to help. He’s a bit bloody when it comes to battles, especially if he’s hungry.” Masaki shivered. Oh you know me, always making people scared including you in the way I do my job. TouTetsuOh said to Masaki. Oh stop it you, Masaki responded to his spirit with a teasing smile. Wait, you cannot summon me you bastard! All that you can do is to receive my support from your gloves! TouTetsuOh yelled at him. ”whoops I forgot. nevermind my suggestion then.” Masaki said with a slightly sad smile.
Razta tapped his fist on Masaki’s skull. “Settle down in there you two.” he said laughing. Anastas smirked, feeling somewhat reassured.
“We might have to adapt our strategy in a worst case scenario.” said Adelina. “We’ll make do.”
“We will most likely have back up from Nero at the other side of the bridge, the plan was to make sure nothing could get behind us, if it does we fail, the formation sits like this at the moment because I think it would be best to make sure nothing could slip by. Ideally we would have an extra man to clean up at the back, but that’s not something we can afford at the moment, like I said, we barely outnumber them. If it comes down to it we should be ready to change our tactics” Owain said in response. Masaki was quiet during this meeting since he really didn’t have any ideas of his own. He would just crush anything that stood in his way.
“Is everyone clear? Do I need to go over anything?” Owain asked the room.
”Aye and nay, captain.” Anastas replied.
“Its pretty straight forward.” said Adelina. “I will be ready.”
0
BlinkXPoke
Cards and Hugs abound
“Ufufufu… Your screams are quite lovely…”
“Mmf!” A cursed soldier had sadly found himself within Sonya’s clutches, and was being brutally punished for her amusement. She whipped him in the back several times, as she pressed down on various parts of his body with the heel of her foot. His mouth had been gagged, preventing his voice from being heard easily, and he was tied to a chair with rope. His arms and legs were completely bound; he could only move his fingers. He pitied himself for falling for the twisted girls charms.
“How about heeeeeeere~?” She stomped on the man’s pelvic area, around where his kidney’s would be. He let out a squeal. “Ahhh, yes, more of that sound… Let me hear your pain more!” Sonya said in an lustful voice, applying more pressure. “You’ve been such a bad man… To disturb me while I was in such a state…”
Sonya had awoken in the middle of the night due to unpleasant dreams about the last battle. She was unable to sleep, so she wandered around the castle a bit, and heard strange voices coming from somewhere within. She never found the exact location, but she could hear it more clearly near the lower levels. Sonya pressed her ear against a certain wall and heard Marian’s voice, along with the cries of pain from various girls. She imagined herself being the one torturing those girls, a thought that aroused her to the point of needing to relieve herself. A guard caught her, and she instead vented her frustration on him. Sonya has since been torturing him in her room until morning.
Another guard came by at sunrise, and forced open the door upon hearing a crashing sound coming from inside Sonya’s room, and found the man unconscious in the chair, which had been knocked over, and Sonya, herself, standing in her nightgown and holding her whip over his body. “What the hell are you doing!?” The guard yelled. “Remember the last time you did this? Marian killed the guy you were messing with last time.”
“Aww, what’s wrong with me punishing a man who peeped on an innocent young lady…?” Sonya responded with a seductive tone. “You should be punished, too, for coming into a lady’s room without knocking…” She puckered her lips while facing the guard, trying to charm him.
“Oh, no, you’re not getting to me. I’m not gonna die over something stupid like this.” The guard ignored Sonya, and walked into her room to untie and carry the unconscious soldier over his shoulder, then grabbed the armor that was removed. Before he stepped back out, he said, “Forgive me, Madame Sonya, but you need to control yourself. The soldiers look up to you.” He closed the door behind him.
“Okay…” Sonya pouted. She stood still in her room as she thought about the soldier’s words. “Look up to me, huh…” The faces of the group she lead during the last battle appeared in her mind again. She sighed as she made herself forget about it again. She changed into a dress, fixed her hair, and freshened herself up before heading out into the halls to wander around a while and familiarize herself with the layout of the castle.
She nearly became lost in it. She was surprised that she even made it back to her room last night, in the dark. The soldiers on patrol helped her find her way throughout the castle, pointing out various unique features to help determine where each room was.
“Mmf!” A cursed soldier had sadly found himself within Sonya’s clutches, and was being brutally punished for her amusement. She whipped him in the back several times, as she pressed down on various parts of his body with the heel of her foot. His mouth had been gagged, preventing his voice from being heard easily, and he was tied to a chair with rope. His arms and legs were completely bound; he could only move his fingers. He pitied himself for falling for the twisted girls charms.
“How about heeeeeeere~?” She stomped on the man’s pelvic area, around where his kidney’s would be. He let out a squeal. “Ahhh, yes, more of that sound… Let me hear your pain more!” Sonya said in an lustful voice, applying more pressure. “You’ve been such a bad man… To disturb me while I was in such a state…”
Sonya had awoken in the middle of the night due to unpleasant dreams about the last battle. She was unable to sleep, so she wandered around the castle a bit, and heard strange voices coming from somewhere within. She never found the exact location, but she could hear it more clearly near the lower levels. Sonya pressed her ear against a certain wall and heard Marian’s voice, along with the cries of pain from various girls. She imagined herself being the one torturing those girls, a thought that aroused her to the point of needing to relieve herself. A guard caught her, and she instead vented her frustration on him. Sonya has since been torturing him in her room until morning.
Another guard came by at sunrise, and forced open the door upon hearing a crashing sound coming from inside Sonya’s room, and found the man unconscious in the chair, which had been knocked over, and Sonya, herself, standing in her nightgown and holding her whip over his body. “What the hell are you doing!?” The guard yelled. “Remember the last time you did this? Marian killed the guy you were messing with last time.”
“Aww, what’s wrong with me punishing a man who peeped on an innocent young lady…?” Sonya responded with a seductive tone. “You should be punished, too, for coming into a lady’s room without knocking…” She puckered her lips while facing the guard, trying to charm him.
“Oh, no, you’re not getting to me. I’m not gonna die over something stupid like this.” The guard ignored Sonya, and walked into her room to untie and carry the unconscious soldier over his shoulder, then grabbed the armor that was removed. Before he stepped back out, he said, “Forgive me, Madame Sonya, but you need to control yourself. The soldiers look up to you.” He closed the door behind him.
“Okay…” Sonya pouted. She stood still in her room as she thought about the soldier’s words. “Look up to me, huh…” The faces of the group she lead during the last battle appeared in her mind again. She sighed as she made herself forget about it again. She changed into a dress, fixed her hair, and freshened herself up before heading out into the halls to wander around a while and familiarize herself with the layout of the castle.
She nearly became lost in it. She was surprised that she even made it back to her room last night, in the dark. The soldiers on patrol helped her find her way throughout the castle, pointing out various unique features to help determine where each room was.