Rainbow
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Post by Starchaser on Aug 1, 2021 2:47:39 GMT -5
"There is sorrow enough in the natural way From men and women to fill our day; And when we are certain of sorrow in store, Why do we always arrange for more?"
-The Power Of The Dog, Rudyard Kipling
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Rainbow
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barbie complex
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Post by Starchaser on Aug 1, 2021 2:47:54 GMT -5
Plot
it's BLO but everyone hates everyone
Main Notes ➼ The Cataclysm happened within the last century and the effects of it are still very prevalent. ➼ Tainted magic runs rampant around the land, manifesting itself in several different ways. Magic in general is weaker and may have at times suddenly fail or have negative results. ➼ "The Storm" is a never-ending magical storm that causes bizarre weather phenomena and is inhabited by eldritch abominations. It is constantly moving and generally lethal to anyone caught within it's path for more than a few hours at best. Came from over the Vale's southeastern mountains a few years ago, but has not since left the valley. ➼ Since the discovery of the Vale by a wandering group of survivors, fighting over who will get to live there has continued. As with during the Great Wars, most naturally formed alliances with their Family groups. ➼ Only three of the Families are active participants in the war at this point.
Locations
The Vale ➼ The main stage of the RP. A small valley that was noted to be surprisingly untouched after the Cataclysm. Naturally, everyone wants to own it.
Main Factions
The Shifter Alliance ➼ A unified fighting force of Shifter packs. Each pack retains a small degree of autonomy, but function more as different armies under the command of the Lead Alphas. ➼ Control the largest portion of territory in the Vale. ➼ Dominated by werewolves, who have the most say in what happens. Shapeshifter packs are primarily used as fighting fodder.
The Elemental Coalition ➼ A major player in the war, made up of several groups of all different Elemental subspecies. ➼ They utilize a mid-sized section in the Vale, but are ultimately better off than the other groups due to their ability to sustain the land, meaning they have the most resources. ➼ On the constant defense from Shifters, but more at odd with the Mages. ➼ Seem to be losing ground due to facing conflict from both Shifters and Mages.
The United Mage Empire ➼ A collection of united Mage survivor groups formally organized into Houses and all bound together by the Imperium. ➼ Control only a small section of territory in the Vale, but protected by a magical barrier.
The Heavenlys ➼ Dipped out of the war early on, fleeing to their floating islands and creating a barrier of Lux to keep out any potential intruders. Have not been heard from since early in the war, assumed still alive. ➼ The majority of asteriae chose not to go with them, being that they already were a rather isolated folk. After the tentative alliance with the Mages was all but obliterated, they too withdrew, but unlike the other Heavenlys, their whereabouts are unknown.
The Infernals ➼ Were the first Family to "fall" during the war, a result of both the Shifters and Heavenlys primarily directing their aggression at them. ➼ Largely believed to have been wiped out, though there are plenty of rumors they went into hiding instead. ➼ At least some are known to live beyond the Vale.
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Post by Deleted on Aug 2, 2021 0:04:56 GMT -5
Hello, hello! I have arrived. I think I'm gonna work on some coding since we will be changing vibes. I think a darker, more mysterious vibe would match the tone we are looking for! Will keep you updated on that. In the meantime, you have any ideas on how you want to start? I know we messed around with a kidnapping of Lilah, but I don't know if you want to jump straight into that or not.
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Rainbow
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Post by Starchaser on Aug 2, 2021 0:57:47 GMT -5
Sounds good, I was planning on changing up the colors for the same reason, and also because it's fun.
I don't care that much how we start it out. I was thinking maybe we could start with the Audras arriving to the main headquarters or whatever? Then we can have Clari and Zane wandering off alone into enemy territory for whatever reason and that's where they run into Lilah?
I don't really have anyone for Lilah to interact with besides my own characters, so I probably won't do as much with her until she's actually with the others. Although I'll still probably end up doing some convoluted set-up, especially since I'm switching her backstory up a bit to fit with the new version of the world, but that's true of all my characters, hers just happens to change the most.
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Post by Deleted on Aug 5, 2021 0:46:57 GMT -5
I would be down for the Audra’s to come in first. Sounds like a good way to kick things off to me. I sort of love the idea of Clari and Zane being childhood friends that haven’t seen each other in over a decade because of the war. So when they meet again, it’s all business around the parents but then Clari convinces him to sneak out for a bit of fun like the good old days. They don’t have to be super close or anything, but I doubt that many werewolves would be allowed into First Pack’s inner circle. Maybe the Audra’s are valued by the Alinsky’s because Torsten is such a great military leader. Even though their standing isn’t quite as high as some of the other packs, his leadership is prized in the war. Just some thoughts since the world is changing pretty drastically. Yeah we can do Lilah then! I will have to make some new characters just to provide other interactions so I’m thinking about how I want to do that. )
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Rainbow
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Post by Starchaser on Aug 5, 2021 1:06:18 GMT -5
Clari and Zane as childhood best friends who have been separated for years is a galaxy-brained idea and I absolutely adore it. And the added angst of them being torn apart by the war *chef's kiss* Interesting to think about the different dynamics now, especially with Redis and the Alphas. Considering how Torsten is probably the most well-known Alpha of the border packs with a reputation specifically for being ruthless and super great at capturing territory/keeping it, it would make sense that the Audras would be a valuable asset in the war. I could see Torsten as being a sort of tactical advisor to the Alinsky Alphas. Ooh, I love this already.
No pressure to make new characters or anything if you'd rather not. I don't mind waiting to bring her until later. Oh, and Caspian for that matter. But totally feel free to if you want.
Also, are you fine with me putting the coding up? The page looks bare xD
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Post by Deleted on Aug 6, 2021 2:12:43 GMT -5
Yes to all this. Reid’s might have to be reworked a bit to fit into the world, but he’ll still be the hopeless romantic. XD No I don’t mind making new characters at all!! It’s not burden to even the load out a bit or anything. Yeah go for it! I’m working on the other bit of coding still and then we can decide it be need it!
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Rainbow
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Post by Starchaser on Aug 6, 2021 2:24:22 GMT -5
Redis not being a hopeless romantic just wouldn't be the same xD
Sounds good, I'm excited to see them!
What all should we work out before we start? I know we already have most of the basic stuff done, but I wasn't sure if you wanted to just jump right in or plan some more stuff out before we start.
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Post by Deleted on Aug 7, 2021 0:58:07 GMT -5
No it wouldn’t be the same at all!! XD I honestly don’t know. I’m ok with just jumping in and worldbuilding as we go. It’s worked out for me in the past with other rps and it adds a bit of fun! Almost like discovering the world with your characters .
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Rainbow
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Post by Starchaser on Aug 7, 2021 11:04:14 GMT -5
That's fine with me then. Do you want to write a starter or should I?
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Post by Deleted on Aug 7, 2021 13:11:36 GMT -5
Would you be able to? I will try to reply soon!!)
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Rainbow
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Post by Starchaser on Aug 7, 2021 20:42:44 GMT -5
Yeah, no problem! Sorry I haven't gotten anything up yet, I've been traveling and I'm kinda sick today.
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Post by Deleted on Aug 7, 2021 22:33:02 GMT -5
It’s ok. I’ve also been sick all day with stomach problems so yep. It’s just one of those days.)
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Rainbow
#CDC0DD
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barbie complex
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Post by Starchaser on Aug 8, 2021 1:55:27 GMT -5
@shootforthestars Ugh, okay, well I am still trying to write something I like, but here is some new Zane coding. I'll probably work on it later too, but I think this is an okay start.
Also, sorry to hear you're not feeling well! Don't worry about responding when I get something up, just whenever you fell up to it. Feel better soon, Shoot <3
EDIT: Okay, here's the starter! I don't particularly love it, but hopefully I did alright setting up the world and everything. I have no clue where I was going with this, but it was pretty fun (at first), and I'm already liking the new setting and tone. I just kinda lost inspiration part of the way through, as I do, so it's not that great. I got rid of a bunch of it because I was sick of trying to write it a way I liked, so this is what you get. Sorry, Shoot ):
I didn't want to do too much with your characters and their relationships with mine since I don't know exactly what you want to do with them, so I tried to keep it all pretty vague, but feel free to build upon it however (or change up anything I've said, I don't mind). With Zane and Clari, I imagine that regardless of how close they were, they would be sort of representative of a simpler time in each other's minds? If that makes sense. idk, I wanted a stupid little dream that really makes no sense and doesn't serve a purpose but kinda poses some subconscious fear of Zane's. in case you haven't noticed, i have no clue what i'm saying. it's way too late to be writing this but.
I'm still feeling out how AU Zane would be, but I imagined he'd be colder and more hardened, but I still wanted to retain some of his usual Zane softness. I also find it interesting that, despite this world being worse off than the one in our main RP, my characters will probably all be closer with their families in it.
Also figured I'd kick-start the angst with making everyone wonder whether he died or not for a hot second. If you don't follow what's going on in the rest of this mess, don't worry, neither do I.
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Rainbow
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Post by Starchaser on Aug 8, 2021 21:09:51 GMT -5
Sorry it's taking a while, Shoot, I'm almost done.
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Post by Deleted on Aug 8, 2021 22:37:10 GMT -5
Don't worry about it! Take your time. I'm still working on Clari's coding. )
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Post by Deleted on Aug 9, 2021 18:57:11 GMT -5
A work in progress. Still not sure if I like the background. Might be too vibrant for the vibe.
Also, that is a fantastic starter! I really like the new tone that has been set with it and I'll try my best to match it well!
EDIT: I've decided to keep the background just because I can't find anything I really like right now that it better. I'll probably continue to mess around with it for a while. Anyways, here is Clari's starter. Her voice feels... off to me. I think that I'm going to have to just mess around with it until I nail it in this new world. The old Clarisse is screaming at me and I had to ignore some things that she woulds normally do or say in favor of a werewolf that grew up in the middle of literal warzone. So I'm sorry if she is a bit severe in spots and completely different in other spots.
No I think you are spot on with the simpler time. In my mind, this Clari wanted to explore the world and was curious just like our OG Clari, but the war not only took that chance away from her, it also make her into something that she cant even recognize anymore. I would like to think that the fun loving, wind in my fur Clari is still down there. She just needs to be brought out to play. We kind of saw a glimpse of it at the end with Redis and how excited she was to see Zane. It probably wasn't even the fact that it's Zane, more so that he reminds her of when she knew herself and knew what she wanted.
Now, ending the war is the only things she strives for and its starting to take its toll on her psyche.
But that's just my ramblings. I'll see how she develops. The family thing is interesting because I don't doubt that Clarisse and Irene still have a strained relationship due to Irene never being around. That's why I wanted to throw in the little snippet of worried Irene to give her something else than coldhearted war general. XD
Also, sorry this took my a hot second. I have been studying for a test and recovering from food poisoning so that was fun. XD)
"A time has come and it is now.
Will you take a stand or bend your knee and bow?"
- If You Stand For Nothing You Will Fall For Anything, Lydia Preston ✶ ⤐ ☾ The Wilted Whimsy ☾⬷ ✶
There was a little hand beneath her.
Tiny fingers, curled around a wooden stick, were tipped with dirty nails. Clarisse stared at the dirt and grime as her jaws went slack to release the rest of the arm. It landed in the mud with a thud.
She hadn't heard the little girl's wails over the rain.
It had swept up heat from the lake, bathing her pack mates in steam and salt. Though Clarisse could barely make out the retreating bodies through the downpour and the scent of blood was washing away, her ears had twitched with the cry to retreat from her enemies.
Her legs wobbled under the weight of the cloudburst. Clarisse pitched to the right, collapsing when exhaustion. The mud should have been cold or at least chilled, but it was the same fire and gore that was on her fur.
Clarisse pinched her eyes shut, thanking Rafe that tears never came with strong emotion when in his embrace. It had been years since the sting of tears had graced her eyes while on the battlefield. Yet, today had been more than a battle.
It had been -
"First Heir Apparent."
She lifted her head. If not for the mental connection, the large white male would have been unrecognizable through all the blood and viscera. He towered over her for a moment before shoving his muzzle into her side.
"Get up. We have been ordered to return to camp."
Clarisse turned her head away, "I know."
It was always the command. Always.
"I just... I just a moment, Fyn."
The male's eyes swept down to the petite fingers, the petite wand. His ears went back, "This is war, First Heir Apparent.""I know that!"
"Then why dwell?"
Even though she knew Fyn had only her interests at heart, it didn't stop the hurt from rooting itself. She surged to her feet with a frustrated snarl, ignoring the weeks - no, months - of exhaustion and pain. The rain pounded against her back as they headed back to the camp. It was a day journey; she would make it.
But try as she might, Clarisse couldn't stop the male's voice from pounding in her head. Then why dwell?
Why indeed?✶ ⤐☾⬷ ✶
Her legs were ready to fall off her by the time the dwindling shifter's dragged themselves into the large camp ground. Set in a clearing surrounded by dense, foggy trees, it made for good cover, but not movability. They had changed locations plenty throughout the last few months, trying to get the most advantageous position for battle. This one had been an old stomping ground. They had returned plenty throughout the war.It had a certain quiet grace and beauty. Still, Clarisse tried not to get attached. She knew that they would be moving soon now that she was returning from taking much needed ground from the mages. She ignored the stares and the whispers as she padded through the encampment. The morning sun was rising and so were the shifter's from their tents. Feline eyes, delicate horns, shining scales - they were common place in the Alinsky encampment, but the First Heir Apparent not so. Despite her status, Clarisse preferred to be out in the world instead of sitting behind the boards of lupine and enemy pieces, being pushed around like a doll. She knew that it all had a place and purpose. After all, she wouldn't be fight at all without the careful planning of her parents and their shifter counselors. Her hands had been sword calloused before she had even learned to talk, to run. It was what she did... the killing. She aided the war and her people. Strived for a better world."Please... I just want my mom."Clarisse swallowed back the taste of blood. Then why dwell? Then why dwell?
She flattened her ears and crested the small hill that led to First Pack's tents. Those around her split off towards their own tents, the wounded to Med. She pushed back the tent flap with her muzzle and sighed at the sight of a warm bed -"Clarisse."
Clari stilled and groaned, "Rafe's Third Eye..." She didn't even have to turn to know the sound of the voice, the presence. "What do you want, mother? It's been a long and trying day."
She could sense the way that First Alpha Irene Alinsky stiffened when she shifted. Clarisse busied herself with finding comfortable clothes that covered the bruising across her legs."I'm going to pretend I didn't hear that. Can a mother not come to check up on her daughter? I haven't seen you in ages."
She snorted as she pulled a tank top over her scarred arms. Clarisse glanced behind her with a grin, "Sure, if you were a normal mother. I ask again: what do you want?"
Irene's wrinkled face pulled in slight distaste. Her startling blue eyes betrayed little hurt, but it didn't stop Clarisse from sighing an apology. Irene brightened then and advanced once Clarisse was fully dressed. She looked her over; it was her voice that gave her away, "Fyn said that you struggled. Are you ill?"
That little snitch.
She shrugged nonchalantly, "I'm fine, mother. Just tired. The line held much longer than we were expecting and the mages have mined more silver. Most of their armor was lined with it. They fell regardless because of their lack of numbers, but we lost more than we should have due to silver toxicity."
Her mother's lips pressed tight, "They are becoming more desperate all the time. It makes them dangerous. I'm just glad that you returned safely." She hesitated before slowing wrapping her arms around her daughter. Clarisse, tense and then loose, returned the rare embrace.
"Mother?"
Clearing her throat, Irene pulled back, "It's just been so long since I've seen you, Clarisse. It's good to have you back."
Irene patted her arm before turning to leave, but stopped in the doorway. She glanced over her shoulder, her face once again all business, "Your father and I have called a war council tonight. The Audra's have been summoned. Make sure you are presentable."
"O-ok." It was all that Clarisse had time to get out before her mother vanished. The female stood staring at the tent flap for longer than she should have, wondering what had gotten into Irene. She had never been one for affection; that had always been Myrek's job.
Irene was discpline and strength; Myrek was compassion and steadfastness.
But Clarisse found herself smiling as she went over to the cot and flopped down. the lingering hug had reminded her of simpler days. Ones where Irene had given her hugs by the streams and called her birdie. One's where the world had been boundless in its possibilities and vast in her childlike mind.
Back then, the war had seemed so far away like a dream gone the moment of waking.
Her mind stilled with nostalgia and sleep dragged her into those long forgotten days.✶ ⤐☾⬷ ✶When her heavy eyes creaked open, Clarisse knew that a significant amount of time had passed.
She rolled over onto her back expecting to at least see the sun through the tent mess, but only clear night sky greeted her. Everything aching bone, throbbing bruise said to stay in bed, but she knew the war council would be called into action soon. Her mother would skin her alive if she wasn't present.
Besides, the Audra's were arriving.
Clarisse jolted in shock. She blinked, "Wait a second... Mother did say that the Audra's were summoned right? No, she totally did. Then that means..." Excitement blossomed in her chest and turned to energy. She busied herself into cleaning up the grim of the journey (the rain had taken care of the blood and guts) with a cloth. Her eyes landed on the brush on her small chest of clothes and she gripped it like a lifeline. She fought against the stubborn tangles until they were tame waves once more. Dawning her limited regalia, she shoved her feet into worn boots and exited the tent.
The camp was in a bustle like usual and she swept past the workers towards the Alpha's tent.
She smiled when she saw a red haired male standing by the tent flaps, "Redis!"
The male startled from his conversation. He turned with a slight blush across his freckled cheeks. His sentry garb seemed to swallow him and for a brief moment, Clarisse wondered if he had stopped eating again.
"First Heir Apparent, they said that you had arrived."
She raised an eyebrow, "Redis..."
"Right, sorry, Clarisse." His voice pitched downward when he said her name. The male shifted on his feet slightly when she huffed in approval. His eyes followed the tilt of her head into her parents tent. "The war council hasn't started yet, if that is what you thinking."
Clari hummed, "You know me well, Redis. And the Audra's?"
"Haven't arrived. Emmett said they should be here any moment now if they kept pace though."
Clarisse released a breath that she hadn't realized she was holding. She had to be here when he came into camp. It had been years after all. She pushed back the flap, "Good. I'll be here in the meanwhile. Let me know when they -"
"Audra's on the horizon!"
The call sent the whole camp into an uproar. Within a heartbeat, her parent's were slipping out of the tent and going to Rafe's side. Clarisse followed suit, excitement making her paws ichy. They moved out to the front of the camp to greet the new arrivals, her father side by side with his mother.
If Irene was the night, Myrek Alinsky was the sun personified. Golden fur only shades darker than her own, he radiated warmth with every toss of his massive head. Irene seemed inky as the ocean deep beside him, her presence cold and still like death.
Clarisse held their flank, careful not to outrank either of them.
The Audra's came through the trees like snowy specters. Windswept and haunted, they were just as she remembered and yet, nothing like before. Thin and wispy with scars peppering their skin like the first snowfall of winter, they looked like hell.
Torsten Audra emerged from the pack. She heard some of the gasps from her packmates. He was a war hero in many parts of the territory, but to her father, he was just a friend.
Myrek's eyes brightened with greeting, "Torsten. Welcome to our camp."
Clarisse lost herself in the drone of voices and polite greetings as her eyes searched the group for the male. She could smell him on them; the scent of fresh pine and water still clung to the group like a pungent aroma. Yet... dropped tails and low whines made her ears twitch in concern.
She clenched her teeth to keep her own low whine from joining the melody.
Clarisse had never considered the option that he might be among the dead. Border pack life was harsh. In some ways, harsher than the front lines of the war. The beasts cared little for life, picking off the weakened and starving. Clari had only encountered one once and it had almost cost her life.
And not to mention the Storms...
It was all she could do to keep her tail high and head steady. She closed her eyes.
Stupid, stupid, girl. Getting your hopes up never ends well. You know that.
A rapid scent change made her eyes crack open in curiosity. Clarisse strained to see what the commotion in the back was for, but when a male pushed his way to the front, she felt the distinct need to cry.
Zane.
Her friend looked more like his father than in their youth. Littered with scars, massive frame, jet black like the ink of quill, he was every inch the male she remembered him to be and more.
Her eyes tracked him across the ground and when he shared the customary greeting, crouched low out of reverence. Memories of summer nights as a child flooded her mind when he spoke. So much deeper, more male and less juvenile, but it was all the same to Clarisse.
It was Zane. It was her friend. It was time lost to war. She held his stare like a lifeline. Do you recognize me too, Zane? Am I still the same pup from the days of our youth? Do you remember me? Do you remember?
Because all she could remember was the girl's hand and her dirty, little nails.✶ ⤐☾⬷ ✶
"I remember you…
A warm heart that chose to love Beyond the worry and fear Past the feelings of disillusionment Through it all, whatever might come…"
"I Remember You" - Regina McIntosh
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Rainbow
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Post by Starchaser on Aug 10, 2021 21:28:11 GMT -5
That's super pretty! I see your point about the background, though it is lovely.
Also, glad you liked the starter. I was unsure of it myself, but I guess it's alright (mostly I'm too lazy to edit it). Take your time with the response; I'm sure I'll love whatever you come up with!
Sorry it took a while to respond, I have no reason.
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Rainbow
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Post by Starchaser on Aug 11, 2021 12:25:51 GMT -5
@shootforthestars I really like the background and I still think it still has a somewhat gloomy hue to it, so I say keep it if you like it and don't end up finding anything else you think fits. And I love the colors you used in general, it feels very autumn-esque, which I think is fitting.
Anyways, no worries about Clari, your starter was magnificent as always! I totally understand what you mean though, Zane doesn't feel quite right to me either, but I'll figure it out eventually. For me, it was more like old Zane was laying on a bed and wouldn't get up, while the new Zane tried to throw him off by flipping the mattress over, but instead was resigned to sitting on the edge of the bed because the old Zane just wouldn't move. I hope that he wont be too wishy-washy in characterization, but we'll see.
Yeah, I could definitely see how that would be the case for Clari. I think that maybe after the initial happiness of seeing each other again, they'll probably end up slightly disappointed because the idealized, frozen-in-time version of each other that exists in their heads is so different now. But they'll also probably be the best ones to bring out the hidden side of each other, since they knew each other before the war was really bad (and before they had much participation in it). I think that Zane is probably less different in this world than Clarisse would be though, because the border pack life in the OG rp is already kind of similar to how it is now. Younger Zane was always a bit more anxious and sensitive than the typical werewolf, so old Zane was already an oddball among his pack. If anything, I just think that he's better at burying his softer side now and somewhat more accepting of the violence, etc.
Let Clari have fun 2k21 ):
That makes sense too, considering how Clari's parents are basically running the entire war. So their conflict would come more from her parents' absence than disagreements between them. I think the main reason Zane would be closer with his father at least would be because they're the only ones of the family still together. Zane's mom still died early in this world, and his brother is a medic for some big pack on the front lines, so Torsten is marginally more affectionate since Zane is literally the only one of his family he has around anymore. Zane might also be his biological child in this RP, but maybe not (not that he should treat his biological child better than his adopted one, but he would because he's just like that. maybe not as much in this RP tho, since shifters are allied). I think they would still clash over what to do in certain situations (Torsten is a "the ends justify the means" kind of guy, while Zane's morals are far stricter compared to most in this world, and he's less willing to just accept the inevitability of deaths).
Sorry, I don't exactly have all the effects this version of the world would have caused well-thought yet, but I'm sure it will come as the RP goes on.
No worries about the wait! Neither of those activities sounds very fun, so I hope you're doing better now. I'll try to have a response up soon, but I'm really, ehm, "scattered" or something today so idk if I'll manage it.
Anyways though, I loved your starter and new Clari, and I'm really excited to see how this goes <3
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Post by Deleted on Aug 11, 2021 23:00:09 GMT -5
Starchaser yeah, I noticed that Zane's coding had a snowy mountain feel to it so I wanted to do a dying forest. AKA autumn. I also wanted to say that Zane's coding is simply stunning. I completely forgot to mention it before, but when I first saw it I literally *chef's kissed* It fits him so well! The new Zane is just as precious as the old Zane. I can just imagine him sitting on that bed like Aw yes, that could be a really heartbreaking moment for the two of them. To see each other and expect one thing and then experience a totally different thing. Dang, that would like heck to have this image of a person your whole life and then they are nothing like that image. Clari will be disappointed. Maybe a little in herself as well. No, Zane will definitely be more like his OG characterization. Honestly. Not yet though. That makes sense for him to be closer to his father as well. I feel like if my son was my only kin left that I would cling onto him a bit more than before. Even if I am still a bit of jerk inside. XD Oh, I also made the executive decision for Myrek to like Torsten. Now that doesn't mean that Torsten has to like him or anything, but I thought it would made sense for the Alpha's to have some sort of friendship if they have been warring together their entire lifetime. I don't have it all worked out either so it's all good! That is what makes it exciting though! Getting to find it all along the way. Take your time with the reply though. I have a test tomorrow and then I'll be much more free to reply. )
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Post by Starchaser on Aug 20, 2021 19:08:45 GMT -5
@shootforthestars So sorry for the wait! This took a lot longer than expected and it did not turn out at all how I intended, but at least it's finally done. There was more, but it was already so long so I cut a bunch out, hence why it kind of just... ends. It's so bad, but I am not dealing with it anymore. Respectfully, it's your problem now ¯\_(ツ)_/¯
Well, you definitely nailed that look, I love it <3 And thank you! I was pretty happy with how it turned out. I was just playing around with the colors at first and I thought the gray felt very right for him, and it looks quite nice on the background.
I'm also glad you like the new Zane. I was hoping to change him in a way that would make sense for this version of the world without sacrificing too much of his original characterization. I'm not sure how well it worked, but at least he's likable xD Yes, of course I am taking any possible chance to include more angst, and I expect it's the same for you. I imagine most of their disappointment will stem from the realization that things really have irrevocably changed and they can't go back to how it was before. Sorry if this doesn't make sense, I am so tired right now for no reason.
That was my line of thinking, at least. He's definitely still a generally cold and callous dude, but he cares more about Zane, even if it isn't super obvious at first. He's more outwardly affectionate in this world too though, for the same reasons. There's also that Zane didn't have his whole getting banished incident this time around, but that's a short story I'm writing so I wont get into that. I like that decision, tbh. I think that Torsten would definitely have a lot more respect for the Alinskys in this one, since they're running the war and right in the action as well. I like the idea that they've been fighting together for a long time and have sort of forged a friendship through that.
True, true. I'm definitely looking forward to it.
Anyways, apologies again for the time and also the length of this post. I didn't mean for it to be so long, but it's sort of the conglomerate of all my partial attempts at writing something. I kind of glossed over the war council because I am horrible at that sort of thing. I was really struggling with writing something that I felt would be accurate enough while also interesting, until I realized I really didn't need to write it at all. I'll probably explain my basic ideas though:
So there's a couple of routes the Shifters could go, and I'm far from an expert, but (embarrassingly) part of why this took so long is because I was looking into military strategies and these are my not-very-well-thought-out ideas: ⢠I'm thinking a combination of attrition warfare and sieges for the mages. They already have the lowest numbers and resources, so if the packs went in and were able to cut off their main supply routes, they could probably bleed them dry pretty easily. ⢠Speaking of supplies, the silver. I think that Torsten would probably suggest they find out where the mages are getting most of their silver first and then take that place over, so the mages don't have any sort of advantage over the shifters. I imagined once they learned it weakened the shifters' powers and could injure them more easily, they started making weapons with it and using it in their defenses. No silver means the shifters would have an easier time getting through their defenses. ⢠If they have information on the mage battle plans, they could then use their knowledge to bypass the bulk of the military and invade the heart of mage territory. Maybe throw in some feint attacks at some of the more notable places as a distraction, since they probably have the numbers to do so. ⢠Since the Alinskys wants to outright end the war, if they went with conquering the mages first, they could take that land and effectively surround the Elementals. Then, using encirclement, they'd have a better chance of taking down the Elementals too, since they could attack from all sides. Thus, ending the war a la a battle of annihilation. ⢠Conversely, they could go the bait and bleed route, somehow convincing the mages and elementals to fight each other more, wearing both enemies down. Then, once both groups are considerably weakened, the shifters swoop in and take them out. So I went a different route than I intended entirely and I really think that was the better choice, because it was much easier to find inspiration for. Also, why have Zane get stuck in the Storm if there weren't going to be any consequences? Everyone should be afraid of them for good reason. Basically, I imagined the Storm is sort of like a condensed, tiny version of the Cataclysm, carrying around bad magic and eldritch horrors that are probably just twisted versions of once-living creatures. Nobody really knows what happens if someone is caught in one for more than a few minutes, but it's assumed to be bad, especially since nobody who has gotten lost in one has ever come out again. It probably should have been a bigger deal than it was that Zane came out of one seemingly completely fine, but I guess everyone's preoccupied with the war council thing. I took some inspiration from what happened with Clari in the main RP for the effects, so more psychological effects than anything else. And the best part? The symptoms get worse over time instead of better, so lots of angst for the future.
I made this so dramatic for no reason, honestly, but that's just who I am, I guess. And, believe me, I could have pushed it even more, but this post was already so long so I just kinda threw something together. Figured I kept you waiting long enough. I'm sorry there isn't much for you to work with though, I'll make sure to keep the following posts more involved.
Anyways, I figure Clari can either come find Zane after the meeting or follow him and convince him to run off like the good old days?
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Post by Deleted on Sept 5, 2021 1:17:47 GMT -5
Ok, first off, I am sooooo sorry for the wait. I got really sick with Covid and so did my roommate. We are fine now, but I went from laying in bed, to getting bad, to recovery, to school all within the matter of a week. Life just... hit me like a Mac truck I guess. ¯\_(ツ)_/¯ So this isn't the best, but I wanted to have something. Literally anything.
I think any of those ideas would work really well. I went ahead and put an idea in the war council that has to do with your idea of Torsten mentioning the take over of silver supplies. Basically, I was thinking of having Zane lead an expedition to discover the silver mines and that is why Torsten was calling out to Zane. If it isn't good just let me know and I can retype something; I just wanted to tie some things together.
I also think that the PTSD from the storm is very interesting and I like the tying in from the last RP with Clari's experience. I think it has interesting effects for the future.
Also, also, I have this head cannon that the Alinsky Alpha’s don’t stay in power for long. Due to the nature of their world, youth is generally power and older pack members become wise council, but concede their positions to the young. Basically, I think it would make sense if Clarisse would be expected to lead very soon. After a few years of field training and learning, she would be expected to undergo a ceremony and lead even if Myrek and Irene are still alive. It is seen as keeping the pack strong.
So in the reply where she mentions how her brothers are too young to be ready, this is what I mean. Any of the pups over a certain age when the Alpha’s step down are expected to fight it out for the position. However, since the twins are far too young to qualify, Clarisse is the only worthy candidate and thus, is going to be expected of her to assume her role and take a mate.
Anyways, I’m sure that seems pretty basic but I never really thought about succession until now. I never really had a frame work for it.
I went ahead and set up them flying the coup so feel free to use the ending however. Also, I wanted to mention that Irene and Myrek are characters that I consider kind of communal. They are mine but due to the nature of the romp, I don’t want you to feel like you can’t use them to get he ball rolling in conversations. Like if you need them to talk or move or anything, it’s nothing a problem!! Use them if it helps. )
"A time has come and it is now.
Will you take a stand or bend your knee and bow?"
- If You Stand For Nothing You Will Fall For Anything, Lydia Preston ✶ ⤐ ☾ The Wilted Whimsy ☾⬷ ✶
Clarisse's paws were on fire.
She shifted from paw to paw to keep from bouncing with excitement at the sight of an old friend. It was the recognition in his eyes that did it to her. For a moment, the scars melted off her limbs and the taste of war left her mouth and the only thing left was the memory of her youth.
Stop fidgeting.
The command elicited an instant responce from her; she planted her feet firmly at once. Yes, mother. Her ears twitched nonetheless. At least she knew someone hadn't switched her mother out earlier. She was still cranky as ever.
Hoping to come off as regal and imposing, Clarisse stood as still as possible while the Alpha's talked. When they choose to move to the war tents, she followed suit just a hair behind her mother's shoulder.
Zane's presence behind her was a tempting promise. She breathed it in deeply, awed how the snowy mountains clung to him. It had been years since she had visited the mountains and she longed for them like she longed for moonlight and leaves beneath her paws. But with the Storm lingering, she would never see them again. Not when she was currently the only eligible heir to the Alinsky pack. Iric and Kaleb were far too young to be ready in time.
And just like that, Clarisse's good mood vanished into the wind.
Ears pinned back, she pushed into the tent with an unnecessary amount of force and shifted before the others could smell her annoyance on her wolf pelt. Her regalia was laid out on the table for her and she slipped into it with quick motions. She emerged from behind the modesty screen to her mother's searching eyes. Deftly, she avoided them and took her place by her father.
The others streamed into the adjacent tent shortly after, shifting one at a time and then entering through the side. It was custom for members of other packs to never directly enter the lead Alpha's tent though Clarisse never understood why. For honor, of course, but it sure wasted time.
When the scent of snowy pine entered the room, Clarisse looked up from her spot at the large war table and smiled.
His messy, raven hair was the same even though the pallor of his skin suggested that he hadn't seen the sun in months. She tilted her head as he came closer and realized that he was taller than her. She chuckled under her breath. Can't tease him about that anymore, I guess.
But it was his amber eyes that arrested her. She remembered them so clearly.
Clarisse wondered briefly if she should say something before the meeting started, but as if fate had denied her, her father called the war council to order and her opportunity was snatched away. No matter, she decided, we have time to catch up later.
"Let this war council come to order. I'll begin by updating everyone on the situation. We have recently come into procession of certain information..."
The voices droned on around her, just out of reach as she allowed herself to fade away for a moment of reprieve from the thinking.
"... so we need troops on the north side, ready to pin them against..."
Her gaze lazily shifted across the tent to Zane and was surprised to see the male paler then before. She blinked, watching as his skin tinted white.
"That's where you will come in, Torsten. Clarisse can report about the silver."
She blinked again to clear the haze when her father called her name. Clarisse turned to the table despite the slight concern for her friend and directed her attention to Torsten, "We recently took over a mage settlement half a days travel from here, but the mages had somehow got their hands on silver armor. We have reason to believe that they are somehow mining the silver instead of receiving the pieces already made. We had effectively encircled the settlement and nothing came in or out. Still, they managed to produce silver breastplates and swords. So, the question is how and where they are getting it."
Chatter rose all over the tent. The heir apparent rocked back onto her heels when the tent fell off into discussion around her, waiting for the opinion of the one male anyone cared about.
When Torsten's amber eyes sparked and his deep voice filled the room, the werewolves hushed. Clarisse was struck by the clarity of his thoughts and the immense weight of his calculations.
For a moment, she mused about his standing, wondering if Torsten had been born in a different time if the Audra's would have been first pack. He radiated the kind of calm, cool confidence and command that her kind obeyed. She straightened subconsciously, her body naturally understanding a threat when she saw one.
One day, she would be First Pack's Alpha. If she was weak, would someone like him take control?
Suddenly miserable, her eyes fell to the floor.
He continued, only stopping when her mother cut in with a series of questions. Irene's succinct voice matched the male's deep timbre in authority, "And your son? Have you asked him what he thinks of this plan?"
Clarisse looked up in curiosity when Torsten turned to his son.
"Zane?"
The whole group looked, surprised to see the distinct, horrified look on the male's face. With a sharp breath, Clarisse leaned forward. No answer.
"Zane?" Torsten asked again.
When clarity came to his eyes and he startled, Clarisse pressed her lips together. Face devoid of color, his eyes jerked around the room towards the expected crowd. She tilted her head when the scent of shock and fear hit her nose.
"Uh, I just need a moment."
Stunned silence followed his departure. Confused, Clari spoke before she could stop herself, "The Arfen was that?"
"Clarisse."
She flinched at the harsh correction and mumbled an apology, eyes steadfast on the way the flap swayed in the wind.
Her father cleared his throat, "We will revisit that part of the plan then. Perhaps, Torsten, you would like to send someone to check on your son?"
Before he could respond, Clarisse pounced, "Allow me, Alpha. I have little to contribute anyway."
Irene gave her a nasty and disapproving look, but didn't speak out against it. Her father nodded his approval and Clarisse fled the tent with more dignity than Zane.
A chill kissed her cheeks as she entered the open air. She tilted her head to the darkened sky and breathed in the fresh snow fall. It was tinted with the smell of her companion. Sharp, distressed, alarmed - Clarisse sighed.
"Please... I just want my mom."
It tasted the same.
Twitching, she moved to stand next to him. She glanced at him from the side and teased, "Well, that could have gone better. I think Wyllo might have it out for you now, after bumping into him like that."
Lightly chuckling, she fiddled with a strand of her hair, "But Wyllo has it out for pretty much everyone in this camp so that's nothing new. Just try not to space out by Emmett. He's an ape..."
She relapsed into silence, suddenly sheepish.
The air around him was different then she remembered. More haunted and wilted, Clarisse's mouth pulled. She cleared her throat and tried again, "Want to go on a walk with me? You look like you need a change of pace."
✶ ⤐☾⬷ ✶
"I remember you…
A warm heart that chose to love Beyond the worry and fear Past the feelings of disillusionment Through it all, whatever might come…"
"I Remember You" - Regina McIntosh
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Rainbow
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barbie complex
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Post by Starchaser on Oct 3, 2021 12:50:27 GMT -5
Posting here so this doesn't fall to the necroposting rule. I promise I haven't forgotten about it! Hope to have a reply up here soon, sorry for the wait!
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Post by Deleted on Oct 8, 2021 0:12:11 GMT -5
Not to worry! Hope everything is well! )
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Post by Deleted on Nov 13, 2021 1:50:10 GMT -5
Hey, Star! Hoping everything is well with you! Now that the semester is coming to an end, I should be able to be more active!)
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Rainbow
#CDC0DD
Name Colour
Starchaser
barbie complex
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Post by Starchaser on Nov 14, 2021 1:37:55 GMT -5
Hey! No worries about the activity, but I'm glad things aren't so busy for you now. I'm not really sure I can say the same for myself thought (about activity, not business). I have the large majority of my response written up, I just still haven't gotten around to finishing it, but I'll do my best. Depends on how much my brain wants me to suffer.
Sorry, I'm kind of unable to piece together a good response, so that's why this sounds so weird and jumbled.
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