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Post by featherleg on Jan 5, 2017 20:29:17 GMT -5
After an hour of attempting to track a single deer through the woods, Aika returned to the village in defeat. The drifting cold that had set in prevented her senses from performing like they usually would, leaving her in the same state of hunger. I either wait for war or start one within my own troops. If only brother stationed us at a better location. She shook her head as she made her way back into the village, only to be met by the feeling of isolation as she realized most of the troops would be on patrol by now as evidence by the fact that barely anyone was present near her chambers. At least I'll have time alone once more.
Pulling the door open to her cabin, she kicked one of the logs that laid near it to hold the door open in case any of the patrols arrived early with an report. That way she could receive them right away. Upon entering, she removed her armor, leaving her in noble winter attire that was made out of thick layers of red, white, and soft gold. Unlike her brother, she tried her best to make her outfits resemble the royal attire they once wore, despite the obvious modifications that were made such as fitted tops and pants in replacement of a robe or dress--although she did manage to have slim half skirt tailored to her outfits to keep up the sense of familiarity.
Grabbing a pack of matches from the war table, she lit the fireplace in front of her and sat down on her knees as the logs began to be engulfed in flame. Placing Kyv between herself and the fire, she unsheathed the sword just enough to reveal the blade--a continuous flow of dark red energy that seemed controlled only by the silver pommel and guard attached to it. Carefully, in an almost fearful manner, she reached out with her left hand towards the sword with her right hand over her chest and whispered,"I seek your solace once more, my lady. You saved me many a time from fates that were not kind. I come asking, can you save me from my own desires? The ones that were cursed upon me when put in this form? I do not wish harm on my soldiers, but I am afraid that if I do not fix this now, I will have to."
For a long while, she was met by silence. However, a figure slowly manifested from the blade: a woman, with short hair bathed in the night sky, eyes as golden as a royals crown, skin matching the snow the sat outside, and clothes draped in crimson. "My child, you fight so hard in this realm. I applaud your attempts to negotiate with your hunger--both now and before. I will try my best to bring you solace, but know it will only be temporary, for I too share your desires in my own way. Remember, we are both bound by blood." And with that, the figure disappeared into the wind.
(Just a causal lore/background drop for everyone :3c )
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Post by Misty on Jan 5, 2017 21:30:56 GMT -5
Lucas nodded once, somewhat encouraged by the fact that Selena thought it would be easy to find Victor. "Well, maybe we should try find him then, especially if it isn't too hard to." He rested his arms by his side, glancing down before looking at his sister again. "And yet you've managed to figure out a lot about what you are," he said. He was embarrassed to admit there were things he didn't know about himself, yet he was proud of his sister for learning things about herself.
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Post by featherleg on Jan 5, 2017 21:38:28 GMT -5
Selena chuckled as she nodded slightly. "I suppose I have, though I'm not proud in the methods I used to do so." Most of the knowledge she had now she had stolen, either from forced words or from documents she wasn't suppose to have. "I should let Elizabeth know he'll be arriving. They have an....interesting history, to say the least."
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Post by Misty on Jan 5, 2017 22:11:58 GMT -5
"I'm sure there's worse things you could have done," he said quietly. And Lucas was almost certain he had done worse things than her, though that was based in his idea that whatever his sister had done couldn't be any worse than some of what he had done. He chuckled at the mention of the two having an interesting history, not entirely sure he wanted to know anything about it.
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Post by Auransky on Jan 6, 2017 1:24:00 GMT -5
featherleg"Well that's that.." Vidal called out from the top of a tree. "Snow's piled in and off the trees, we caught some decent catch,and with that we can perhaps head back." He gazed out before climbing back down the tree. Ungus nodded, "Alright then, we'll head back and meet up with the others." "Not before reporting our findings, and confirming the false path.." Added Vidal. "Right-" Ungus nodded then walked over to the sack which held their prey. "C-Can I ask you something?" "If you want, sure." Vidal nodded. Ungus took a moment to adjust the sack against his back before straightning up, "What brings this tension before Sir. Willow?" He asked in curiosity. Vidal made his way down the tree in silence, "Such a question, need it answers? Come on now.." He waved. "N-No I'm serious, what brings this hate?" Ungus asked again. "Are you his friend?" Vidal turned his head. "No-" "Do you know him at all?" Vidal gazed out. "No-" "Exactly..." Vidal added. "We don't know him, nor his past-while his companion was an apprentice and grew up into the knighthood, his closest companion we know nothing. He comes from Ireland, but other then that, there is nothing of his past. Just a lad who's grown up ,and woke up one morning to be here. To be here you need to prove your worth, train as an apprentice, or be selected. It's hard, and simplisity is just not there.." Drew walked out of a cave far east of their round, he rasped his hands together to get the ash off his hands. "With that we may return, with an accomplished feel. Despite who gave the order, nothing has been spotted out here and all is well. Oh quit with that look, Grayson! All is well and that is of importance." Grayson approached with the sack against his back, "Pft, day is well, but it would be better if I could have that spoiled brat dead." He kicked the ground in open frustration. Seeing as Drew was alright he walked off without awaiting. "W-Wait!" Drew rushed after. "I want this war to end, but why must I be stuck with this kid who thinks this is a game? He did not grow up learning the ways of war, nor training to die. He signed up to simply fight, and before long they put him this far up in the ranks. Truly upsetting and truly frustrating!" He kicked the snow some more. Drew quickly rushed over to their horses which lay waiting up ahead. He was suggesting they ride back, but with Grayson heading off in a different direction, he held the reins and led the horses after Grayson. "We just don't talk to him is all! Just relax, we're in the open and breathe in the wonderful world that surrounds us. True death is pending, but we chose to fight, and we chose to be here. Therefore we should be proud for our cause." "Right-Right Right, and let the boy walk farther up the chain then all of us. on top of it his friend tags along. I didn't even know Jakup knew that trash for so long, it's disgusting. We should have gotten higher, we have been living our lives in this pending faith longer!" He cried out then continued along the wildlife. "If I could kill him, I would-show him that this is war, not a kid play. No love no talk; it is kill or be killed. Here it is important that we survive to revive something that was dearly lost to our homeland. Nothing a filthy outsider would understand..." "Perhaps-" Drew added, "But the group he came from provided aid. They came to assist in our efforts, so perhaps he has a past like ours? Training to be a knight since young?" Drew added with curiosity flooding his thoughts. "A past? Those he came with state that he came as an enlistment, then bounced faster then rain. You call that a past?!" Grayson kicked a rock as hard as he could; it took some effort with the snow and dirt intertwining. "Well whatever the case, let us watch him carefully. We shall wait for him to mess up and strike him down before his dreams take off-" Drew was quickly hushed by Grayson. "W-What, enemies?" Drew softly asked. "Somewhat..LEave the horses here..." Grayson placed the sack down within a bush, then carefully led Drew a few clearings ahead. Jakup and Rowlin were only a few clearings ahead. The two were casually conversing while inspecting each clearing. Every few clearings or so the two would mark the bottom of the tree, then mark a physical map the two had plotted before hand. "With this, we can see the clearings that open versus the clearings that narrow. It will provide most useful for escape, and baiting." Rowlin lightly tapped a nearby tree. "Getting the Ariel view would help much as well-" He started to climb the tree without waiting for a reply. "You should let me do that!" Jakup quickly put the map away, then rushed over towards the tree his friend was climbing. "I'm fine!" Rowlin assured. "Find you are, but can you physically bare the wound?" Jakup taunted.' "Pft-I'll be fine so long as I avoid anything too rough." Rowlin assured. "That sounds very assuring in a warzone.." Jakup sarcastically added. "Maybe, but the view up here is truly nice." Rowlin adjusted himself on a branch. He had a map himself so quickly he took it out and began plotting notes around the area they were in. "Truly a view.." He softly repeated. "Now get down.." Jakup protested. Rowlin lightly laughed, "Right away, as thy orders-" His laughter was short lived with an arrow scrapping against his shoulder. Slipping off his branch in surprise, he reached out to grasp the branch. The issue lied in the hand he used to grasp it on; it happened to be the same arm that was just pierced through, so his grasp was in pain, and his concentration was flooding between the pain and the fall. Loosing his grip he hit the side of the tree and came tumbling down, not before clashing with the tree several times "R-Row!" Jakup rushed over in horror to what had just happened. This was the last thing he expected, and in the least the least expected thing to happen. "I've fallen... off trees before..." Rowlin bit his lower lip.. "I-I-I'll be fine!" He yelped when his friend lightly ran his fingers along his side. "I-I'm fine....." "Fine? You are not fine, that wound opened up, and now you have a wound on your shoulder." Jakup shook his head, "Y-You are asking for death..." "W-Wait...What?" Drew stood in the distance dumbfounded as to everything that had just happened. The surprise attack in the least caught him off guard, but as things cooled down a new thought came to mind. That arrow-it came from our direction.. He turned to see Grayson holding a bow, and a rather smug look on his expression. "And that might be enough to send him home..." Grayson nodded in satisfaction. His attention turned towards Drew, "What?" "Where did you get that?" Drew blinked. "We stashed items on the horses, remember?" Grayson walked off. "We are hunting, we need everything we can get." "We-Should help them.." Drew stood divided. "They can handle it. It's just a scratch, a deep one, but nothing rags wont fix, give him a week or more to fully recover. Hmm-he might not have a week.." He got on his horse with an aplogetic look. "Let's go..." "You go.." Drew nodded. "I will check another clearing before heading back.." "Pft- Suit yourself.." Grayson nodded before riding off.
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Post by featherleg on Jan 6, 2017 1:38:06 GMT -5
Thirty minutes of long mediation passed before Aika awoke from her trance like state of being when the distant but very, very clear smell of blood drifted around her. Grabbing her blade, she swished her hand in a circular motion, causing a wave of red energy to flow across the boards and back into the pommel and guard. Quickly, she put her armor back on, sheathed her blade into the back of her breastplate, and ran outside. Whistling for her horse, it galloped away from the makeshift stables and in front of her. After pulling herself onto its saddle, she took a deep breath in and began making away towards the scent. Fresh blood was the easiest form of blood to track for any vampire, and being able to conjure and control the state of it only heightened her senses. While she did have to stop every few seconds to pick the scent back up, eventually she found herself the source, and with that a state of confusion. About twenty feet in front of her she saw Rowlin and who she assumed was Jakup, with Rowlin in the state of injury. Oh gods..."Sir Willow are you alright?" She called as she made her way over on horseback. Auransky
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Post by featherleg on Jan 6, 2017 1:43:22 GMT -5
"You're right about that." Her brows raised with a rather accepting manner. "Maybe I've considered the consequences and responsibilities of my actions too much. Enough of that though, thank you for helping me brother." She placed her hands on his upper arms and gave them a light squeeze, the stone cold look she usually maintained her eyes only now melting with a look of familiar warmth and content.
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Post by Auransky on Jan 6, 2017 2:28:45 GMT -5
featherleg I-I need to get going... Drew quietly retreated a few clearings back where he left his horse. Quietly he made his way away, waiting until he was a far enough distance to get away. Jakup quickly called for the two horses, the two had come on. Quickly without haste he checked through his supplies for supplements to assist. "Yes!" His green gaze softened in somewhat relief. Quickly he rushed back over to his companion and started to clean up the blood along his shoulder. "N-No..." Rowlin shook his head in pain, "The side... the older wound-please.." He pleaded quickly. "Just get it now..." He bit his lower lip tightly. "Please-please please..." "Hold on.." Jakup calmly assured, running a hand against his blond hair; a few strands were out of place and it was starting to annoy him. "Alright..." He nodded then gazed around, slowly unstrapping the armor along his side. Hearing the sound of something approaching he paused then quickly rose on his feet. I guess that's going to wait- He stiffened in defense, seeing the horse, and rider he quickly loosened. "M-My-Lady?!" Jakup quickly dropped to his knees in respect. "A-A pleasure to make your acquaintance..." Oh please-please not now... Rowlin quickly swallowed his pain, then remained silent. He wanted this to all passs and go. When a question was directed to him he found himself forced to speak. This....this... "M-My Lady...." He forced his words out, "I-I am fine.." He assured calmly.
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Post by featherleg on Jan 6, 2017 2:38:44 GMT -5
"A pleasure to meet you as well Jakup but we have pressing matters to attend to." She said as she quickly got off her stead and rushed over to Rowlin's side. "You clearly are not. Be still please." Her gaze quickly went over the two wounds that she could see, the older one grabbing her attention since the new one wasn't as deep. This wound hasn't healed properly by any means... Removing her gloves, her rubbed her hands together before making eye contact with Jakup. "I will explain later, but can you trust me enough to look away for just a few moments?" While her brother and her retainer used blood magic to fight and attack, Aika often used it to heal herself and those within her inner circle that were aware of her abilities. Auransky
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Post by Auransky on Jan 6, 2017 2:48:39 GMT -5
featherleg Jakup nodded towards her brief greeting, "True, this is not the best of times to greet as it comes." He rose quickly turning his attention back to his companion. He was about to comment against his friends assuring tone when the newcomer too spoke her thoughts, the same thoughts he too held in mind. he is not fine.. at this.rate he may never be-"W-Wait..." jakup softly spoke. She was asking him to do what now? s-she wouldn't hurt him... no off course not. No, but-if something does happen... if he gets worst or ..at its gravest-"T-T-Turn around..." Rowlin stiffly stated. "Forget anything just turn around-" Jakup was against it, but he turned then stepped away a bit , gazing out towards the other nearby clearing.
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Post by featherleg on Jan 6, 2017 3:01:16 GMT -5
"Thank you." She quietly muttered as she drew a small amount of blood from her hand before pulling it into the air and around her hands and fingers until it resembled hundreds of red strings, seemingly connected to one another. Upon twisting them all between her hands, they formed around her hands like gloves. Carefully she pressed her hands onto the wound, muttering in a language that neither of the two could possibly comprehend or even recognize but the way the words sounded maybe it seem almost like a lullaby. The area around the wound began to glow a dull gold that seemed brighten with each passing second, easing any and all pain coming from it and healing the wound, layer by layer. Continuing the spell, she reached one hand out to the newest wound and began the same process. Auransky
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Post by Auransky on Jan 6, 2017 3:14:05 GMT -5
featherleg At first contact the wound was pain, but slowly as these words unheard and unrecognizable , made their way through the clearing , it merely relaxed him. The words captivated him, if was not something of reality, it was these same words which distracted him from what was actually going on. His gaze softened, bringing a relief which had not been felt for a while. Have I danced too close on deaths door? ... I am alive, but-i also feel like one have died... passed to an endless nightmare... the pain it is gone, but it sounds impossible.. clearly I-I am dead....right?"Death is close...is it not?" He softly let out his thoughts. "To feel no pain after what felt never ending... it clearly marks death, no?"
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Post by featherleg on Jan 6, 2017 3:26:21 GMT -5
"For some it does, but for you, not today." Aika pulled her hands away from him, the small wound that was on her hand simply vanishing upon her returning to their common tongue as well as the spell. "Someone shot you, and I'd like to determine who it was as quickly as possible. Which direction did that arrow come from?" She said a bit louder as she put her gloves back on and tapped Jakup on his shoulder, gesturing him to look back upon his friend. It would be best to examine the arrow as well, perhaps we can recognize the material it's made of.
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Post by Auransky on Jan 6, 2017 3:48:38 GMT -5
Rowlin released a disappointed shrug, "Such a shame, to think i would be joining the family for dinner." He rose now adjusting himself, then shuffled his feet against the ground. He gazed up towards the branch he sat on. "I was up there... gazing towards the west. We are currently on the east end...I was seated towards the west , my surprise came south east.."
Jakup turned silently then.approached the tree. "The south east, or simply south to put it blunt. That arrow may have gotten stuck in the tree, or.fallen in the next clearing. " he glimpsed towards the next clearing, "assuming the arrow should have landed in that direction, we can assume it was fired from the other end. Whether it be at close or long.range, we have yet to find out."
"Perhaps, but we can find the source." Rowlin encouraged. "I will check the clearing north , if we assume the arrow came south." With that he walked off. to have her here...an honor, but-she need not be here wasting her time on us. We are here to serve, and every moment out here... she leaves herself open..
"Mmm.. then I shall check south for all open clearings. But even in the snow we Kay find tracks, or some of our own trackers tracks.... nonetheless, all possibilities must.be kept.open" Jakup quickly went off to check.
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Post by featherleg on Jan 6, 2017 19:51:42 GMT -5
Aika sat in silence as she watched the two before noticing the small pool of blood that had now dried into the snow in front of her. She sighed to herself as she removed one of her gloves and reached out towards it, causing it to flow around her hand and be redirected into one of the slots towards the back of her breastplate. Might as well join them.
Returning to her stead, she pulled herself back onto it and rode up to where Jakup was. "You two are on patrol correct? Where is the rest of your unit?" It seemed odd to spread out a whole unit that was suppose to be around eight to ten people. If Saizo taught her anything during her battle training, it was to stay close with your companions in case one was to fall. Drifting apart in a situation like this seemed rather strange and almost deadly.
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Post by Auransky on Jan 6, 2017 22:38:01 GMT -5
featherleg Jakup turned to address Aika, "The group appears split, but in reality everyone is closer then considered. They should be meeting by the river to discuss their findings, and any potential ideas to set up potential alerts for any change in the forest." His tone regained its calm demeaner from before. "We did alert the others to head back, should we arrive late. With that all was dearly agreed about." Rowlin walked back into the clearing, he stretched a little to the side feeling better then ever. "In most events sticking together works the strongest, but keeping a small distance allows for more exploration, and keen observation." He added to his friends explanation. The two were hoping to avoid the early conflict before they went out. "Worry not, with the coming days everyone shall be grouped up." Jakup calmly assured. Rowlin agreed,"All will be well... " He paused for a second, "I-I appreciate the assistance, unexpected yes, but truly thanks." He somewhat hoped to push along the topic.
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Post by featherleg on Jan 6, 2017 23:41:02 GMT -5
She nodded along as she listened, making notes of their current findings.A river? Perhaps there would be animals nearby there? "Have you been able to track any animals during your patrol so far? It would ease my concerns knowing we've locked down an area for hunting. Also...why wouldn't anyone come to aid either of you if their suppose to be in a close proximity? I understand that keeping a spread formation aids in exploration, but in doing so it appears you two have been isolated from the rest." There were so many red flags going off in her mind about what was happening. Her adviser gets shot and no one besides Jakup responds to this within a patrol unit? What if it's really....
"Your unit, who is in it besides you two?"
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Post by Auransky on Jan 7, 2017 0:13:04 GMT -5
featherleg"We have tracked animals in the area." Rowlin replied firmly. "As a secondary order, the units have been asked to hunt. Last I spotted them, they all had something to bring back." We don't have to include that we were quietly watching them from affar right?When she asked for the individuals whom were in his unit, he fell silent for a moment. this is going in the direction it feels like it's going..."We paired everyone in units of two." Jakup added as he approached Rowlin, then pulled him in close. "Ungus, and Vidal were placed together , as were Drew, and Grayson. Thus myself and Rowlin took the last unit. Hence is as follows."
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Post by featherleg on Jan 7, 2017 0:47:14 GMT -5
"I see...." For a few moments she just closed her eyes before speaking back up. "Have your unit return to my chambers once your patrol is done. Make sure everyone still has the equipment they had during the patrol. That is a direct order, understood?" She nodded her head to them before pulling the reigns on her stead and began riding back towards camp.
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Post by Auransky on Jan 7, 2017 1:28:44 GMT -5
featherleg"Y-Yes, your highness!" Rowlin quickly replied. Seeing her go he turned his attention back to his friend, "Then we must rush back.." He now sighed at the thought, then whistled out to call out his horse whom stood on standby not too far from where they stood. Jakup whistled out to his horse as well. "It seems we have some pending doom coming our way." He shook his head at the thought. "Might we expect another wound, so soon?" He raised a brow. Rowlin hoped on his horse, "Aye- let us quickly make haste." "Yes-" Jakup agreed quickly pulling on his horse's reins. Galloping allowing the river Vidal glimpsed around to see if anyone was in view. He looked to the side to check on Ungus keeping up. "A-Ah there!" He spotted Grayson up ahead,"How was your end, Grayson?" Vidal rushed over to catch up with his fellow companion. Grayson turned with a smirk holding out his sack, "Drew and I got a nice plump kill. How about yourself?" He looked over at Ungus, "You two encounter anything scary?" He taunted. Vidal shrugged,"we caught quite a bit of things." He looked over at Ungus. "We also didn't spot anything out of the ordinary. Grateful we are nonetheless" he added. "Aye-" Ungus added. "We spotted nothing out." He turned around in wonder. "Where is Drew?" He raised a brow. "And the last two?" "I-Im here!" Drew called out. His horse gallopped along the group. "I needed to check some last things out. Nothing more nothing less." He calmly assured. "Oh tardiness me!" Grayson's voice lit up the boys. "We might be busy as of late, I just feel it!" He excited the others. "We may be short handed..." "What makes you think that?" Ungus raised a brow. "Or did the area we mark , make you realize that we have been left for dead?" "Something like that.." Grayson smirked. Grayson.... used my bow, that's how he knows... Drew silently followed the others.
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Post by featherleg on Jan 7, 2017 1:53:16 GMT -5
Upon returning to camp, Aika quietly lead her horse back to the stables, making sure to leave a full bucket of feed for it to feast on before returning to her chambers. She rekindled the fire in her cabin and then made sure to put away all the files and maps that were laid out on the war table. /And now we wait./ She thought as she reset the kettle that hung above the fireplace, pouring a bit of water out of one of her water skins into it. Auransky
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Post by Auransky on Jan 7, 2017 2:15:47 GMT -5
featherlegThe group of four made their way back to camp. They conversed and calttered about their findings, and whom got the most prey. It was at the sigh of Rowlin , and Jakup that the group drew silent. "We have a new order-" Rowlin stated softly as he caught up to the group. "We must report to Lady Aika at once. No time for rest nor time to look back." Jakup nodded,"we are all here, therefore with we got to her quarters We go." Vidal blinked, "truly how? Did you read her thoughts , find her , come back, or was word sent?" "Does it matter?" Jakup raised a brow. "An order is an order." He redirected the group towards Aika's orders. "Take it as an opportunity. Question all you'd like.." Rowlin added. He was feeling very uncomfortable to this point, but there was no way.He was getting out of this one. Derrick should be here.. he'd be able to calmly walk out of this.. He slowed his horse seeing lady Aika's quarters a few steps ahead. how does he stand with pride? He should be in pain right now... is he biting down in the inside? Yet his posture hides it too well Grayson stopped his horse then jumped down. "And we wait here for that lady to speak of orders?" He asked with curiosity. "It appears so.." drew leapt off his horse. "Wait we shall.." Rowlin-he appears unharmed.. did Grayson miss? Could Rowlin have faked the fatal hit to satisfy Grayson?
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Post by featherleg on Jan 7, 2017 23:48:39 GMT -5
Minutes passed before the door to Aika's cabin opened. One of the generals walked out before saluting them. "Gentleman, Princess Hakuryu will see you now. And, just a warning," his voice lowered as he stepped towards them all," I'd be careful on how you address her. Her temper.....I wouldn't mess with it."
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Post by Auransky on Jan 8, 2017 0:14:36 GMT -5
featherlegThe boys listened in interest towards the general's warning. They all gazed towards one another with a firm nod before turning their attention back towards the door. It was a moment of hesitation that stood before them all; they wanted to yell out who goes in first, but all was silent. Rowlin shrugged seeing that they were going nowhere with this. Back home, standing still like that gets you killed-even in your own group.. He walked in with Jakup following behind, the two in silence; gesturing the others follow in. Ungus took in a deep breath then followed after the two; he stood firm, but was slightly afraid. He had never seen the Princess directly before. Usually from afar when addressing everyone. Vidal walked in after keeping silent as he walked calmly in. He was concerned, but a new thought occured; maybe they weren't goners? Maybe this was good news. Drew walked in after keeping himself a distance from Grayson. This was not comforting for him one bit. Grayson walked in happily as can be. He was grateful that all went well, and for all they know; they might be getting a new adviser. Better an insider, then an outsider..traitors they turn out to be quickly...
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Post by featherleg on Jan 8, 2017 0:40:57 GMT -5
"Would one of you be so kind as to close the door? It would be greatly appreciated." Aika called out before turning to face them, a rather blank expression was atoned to her face as she looked over each of them, her eyes seeming more focused on their equipment than anything.
"You are all soldiers, so please answer this for me. One is an armies greatest strength and weakness?"
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Post by Auransky on Jan 8, 2017 2:50:26 GMT -5
featherlegDrew nodded then swiftly shut the door. His eyes skimmed the others before turning back towards Aika. This-This isn't comfort, we're being fed to the lion... The question now forced him to think it through. Strengths and weaknesses...huh- He glimpsed up adjusting his bow against his shoulder before stepping forward, "Commitment,and acknowledgement... To know what lies ahead, and to awknowledge those around you. To accept and march forward in pride." Grayson lightly dusted himself off then rested a hand along the hilt of his sword. "Aye-Strength itself is a necessity. Without it force lacks, and i shows others who is willing versus those who step back to allow others to dominate. Standing firm is the stronghold to pressing forward." Ungus adjusted the holster on his right leg which contained a dagger. It had some annoying thorns which had caught a hold sometime during the patrol. He lastly brushed off some stroll along leaves off the other Holster before standing upright; perhaps or terror, or because the sooner this ended the sooner they be out. "Strength alone is nothing without stealth, and ability. Should you mindlessly barge in; you might as well right your death note." "But without trust, none of that can really stand, can it?" Jakup raised a brow as he leaned back a little; his own bow slightly shifted off his arm. "Come to say in the least, trust cannot sit with acknowledgement." He leaned towards the others now in a somewhat challenging tone. "Without trust, we lack reason, and without either we're good as gone. Why bother, if it isn't there?" Rowlin was silent the entire time as he listened towards the others. There was boasting within each of their voices. They all answered based on their strengths and that was good, but somewhere along the lines it was hostility, unoticed but directed. It was both flaw and right; flinging back and forth. When his friend spoke his attention turned, not because of his voice, but rather Jakup lightly kicking against the heel, with his leans. "I-I agree with everyone's point.." He softly stated, "But if there is no trust we lack acknowledgement. This acknowledgement leads to a lack in unifying hence our strengths are divided. And those divided strengths will lead us blinded through the dark; our stealth perhaps seen by the keen eye of our enemy, and then what?" His voice had risen firmly. "We are picked out one by one, because no trust was put into awknowledgement, all truth was seen as lie, and our stealth slaughtered; as we stand there helplessly....watching-watching them kill right before our eyes, because we blinded one another-" He fell silent as another hit to the heel came in place. He fell silent then slightly gazed away. Quoting your brother-heh... you've memorized that too well... Jakup glimpsed towards the others in curiosity. He could see an exchange of thoughts running between each of them. How long-"But who is not doubt that those closest will blind us?" Grayson stepped out. "Those closest whom we see, who we accept will just lead us to pending doom? The word of the doubt must exist must it not?" "Yes but of course." Rowlin turned his attention. "Word of the doubt is always a gracious thing, but so is the will the live. Every choice we make, it is one that leads us forward and drops us back. Hence we must consider whether we choose too or not." "So it is okay to doubt in most instances?" Drew leaned out. "To not trust beause we choose too hence stick to our perimeters of safety, keeping a cautious eye?" "They have a point in the lest-" Vidal approached Drew and Grayson. "Trust is there, but full of doubt. Who is to say that you or he or I or we shall not lead each other to pending doom?" He sighed, "There has been cases of other units turning on one another, what is to say we shant land in the same square? We want to avoid it truly do, but that doubt lingers in heart come." "It as said before it is okay to doubt, it comes natural in fear." Rowlin nodded reassuringly. "But we have objectives too, hence we stand united under one front. Without that reason, nor unitity, trust dies and doubt grows. But-at the end of the day we're all scared on the inside-we fear because death cries louder then life. Every day we step out, and every choice has two outcomes. Some more dangerous then others, but even the simplest of choices shall lead to our downfall. Hence why truce, belief and unity exist. Without any we are nothing more then monsters seeking everything with no cause." Grayson leaned to the side, "Perhaps, but who is to say the outside wont stab back?" He raised a challenging brow. Drew nodded, "Tis true, him who comes beyond the walls. Comes with a different cause, unifying under our cause?" "Face it.." Vidal shrugged. "No one likes it one bit, nor do we appreciate the outside hand. Supplies, welcoming and assistance, but to be led by someone hence not from our land? That I cannot take into reality..." "Live life, then die... it is the code of honor." Ungus added lastly. "That which we unify and follow our lady in battle. We know the affair, we know the conflict, it is our blood being slain. The outside may come, but lead in something that has no blood of theirs to begin with, now that I cannot understand." "Sir. Jakup..." Grayson held out a hand. "You see it too do you not? The trust grown within the ranks of long years. The truce, and help that we have hold so dear. A promise to her holiness, and agreement that come here." "Pft-Come please.." Jakup stated aggressively. "I shall die fighting for a cause, whether it be home or a land far away. We are people hence we must trust outside. The tragedy of our homeland has shaken everyone true,but to keep our doors closed is not the answer we seek." He stepped forward to meet Grayson's gaze. "Everyone is scared, so are the people whom we swore to protect, they close their doors to outsiders, and treat all relief that has come through the doors as a reaper plain as day. But-should we stick to closing our doors, we shall soon run out of resources, reason, and hope. Only then will there be a victor and certainly we wont be that." He turned his head towards Rowlin. "Call it a curse, a witch, or death, but I made a promise, and I intend to uphold my promise." He smirked pulling back a few strands of hair that fell out of place. "I stand by my friends, and what I believe is right, should there be anything I feel grateful for, is that reason still stands by my side." Rowlin blinked silently in the background, Jakup.... His feet shifted along the ground slightly, this was going to end so badly. So this hate is not direct, but it is more of an internal fear.... Not only the knights but the local people whom respect Lady Aika? Has this been going on since the start, or did a turn of events cause this all to stir
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Post by featherleg on Jan 8, 2017 7:42:15 GMT -5
Aika listened as they all responded, taking key note of Jakups last response before speaking up. "Thank you all for your answers, but I believe it was Sir Jakup who answered correctly first. Trust is our armies backbone but also our greatest flaw. Any moment of doubt within not only oneself but also of his or hers fellow soldier could mean a moment of injury or death. However, if our trust in one another is strong and sound, then these injuries can be avoided and great feats can be accomplished. That being said....trust also works in rankings. If I was meeting with all four of our generals outside now and one was to be injured or killed while standing right in front of me, can you tell me who the perpetrator was actually aiming for?"
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Post by Auransky on Jan 8, 2017 15:03:19 GMT -5
featherleg (Just a heads up, but I'm taking a class for winter intersession. Class starts tomorrow and ends before February. The issue with this class is that it starts at 8am, and for me to even make it on time, ill have to call it a night pretty early. I'd say around 9pm pst latest, if I seriously want to get up by 5am latest. Q.Q The campus I am attending for a month is slightly farther then my main campus, and because of it I need to heed more precaution in distance, and traffic. The only good thing is that this class is four hours long, hence after I get home around noon I should be able to role play during the dau while doing stuff around the house. ) (This class ends before February, so once my actual spring semester rolls around, I will be able to stay up a bit later; since classes start at a later time. ) Ungus blinked, "My lady-wouldn't that bring two possibilities?" He asked back in wonder. "In times of war, and power or just in general; when someone is most unhappy they will target the highest power. But sometimes aiming for the highest power means hitting an impenetrable fortress, hence why sometimes taking down the beams is second best. Remove the beams , and slowly the tower crumbles, until the highest figure is ripe for the taking." Drew crossed his arms , he listened keenly then a new thought came to mind. It has happened in the past so-it is an open possibility... "what if someone is doing it for personal reason? They just hold a grudge, and cannot bare to see that person stand high and mighty. It just drives them insane, or that individual did something in the past to drive another to their actions. I-In this instance, killing a general." "In my experience in stealth units, I have come to see scenarios killing high ranking officials without disturbing the peace of what we consider home an act of silent terror. In this case a traitor amongst the ranks who is so.ing to tear down the fortress, but preferes to collapse it inwards and await for panic to kill itself quickly. These people usually wait days, months and even years before they act. They hold patience, and await Livingstone lives before they strike." He moved slightly during his speech , hence the clanking of his lance and shield were made noticeable. (I knew I was forgetting something. with this everyone's wep has been described. This post and the previous post Xd ) Jakup leaned slightly on Rowlin just to assure he wasn't distracted in thought by all the incoming possibilities. Seeing his friend lightly shove him off be relaxed. "But what about mercenaries, hunters and bounties? Our Enemy is not just anyone, hence monetary is possibility. Pay these individuals to kill whom been targeted. At the end of the day whether they killed the main treasure, or its fortress; they were all worth some profit. These individuals are after wealth, but they also see their tasks as a mere game. A game where the challenge always changes. At the end of the day they get wealthier regardless of what happens." Grayson lightly shook his head, "it all means well, but what if someone is just looking for something to fulfill their needs? Not war, nor destruction; just power to call their own. Ambition that fuels the fire, and hence leads one to do everything we have just discussed and much more. They come to benefit others without realizing it. Hence if someone is power hungry they will do what they must. " He turned to Jakup with a smirk, "greed , money, assassins , bounty hunters-it won't matter! Because in the end the ambitious person will gain more then what they were hired for." "And that's the issue." Jake lightly waved a hand, "they do not want such responsibility. They want wealth, and to continue their game of challrnging targets." "But having an army would mean moredefense?" Ungus chimed in. "Yes, but why would someone who works alone wish to care for the well being of others?" Jakup wanted to roll his eyes but kept a stable expression. "Would it not be best to ask Sir. Derrick?" Vidal leaned forward almost stumbling farther forward on his lance and shield that hung around his back. "Derrick is here in the camp, he arrived during her highness's departure." "Why? If you don't mind me asking." Rowlin crossed his arms."this is our question, and ours alone. " Drew walked towards Vidal, to readjust his lance. After he adjusted his own bow with a slight smile on his face. "Thars right, Sir Derrick was in a similar situation, hence he would be best to heed advice." "T-That defeats the purpose of our question.." Rowlin softly stated. Grayson leaned forward holding back the hilt of his sword before it fell out. "Oh dear knight Rowlin, you don't know the story do you?" Before receiving a response be shook his head,"of course you wouldn't know. This case was handled internally before the high officials, and knights of course. There is no way you would know. But as a fellow knight it is our duty to inform you, but need warning, should news spread outside of those whom know; the penalty could be death." "Then share not." Rowlin invited. I have never felt more powerless the. I do now... He treats me like he would have, and it is driving me insane, but just stay calm, listen to his words, and let it slide...whatever He says cannot scratch.... "Sir. Derrick served a top notch tactician. This tactician we know not his name because he always sent sir. derrick partake in all meetings, and anything that involved the public eye. This tactician always stayed on the front lines hence the only people who ever met him were those he encountered. But the biggest line of questioning arose from the fact that he kept a distance, back home everyone assumed that he was either on one side of the other. Selling secrets, or simply plotting to take us all down. But the main issue lies in one briefing where one of their generals was killed before the rest. After that death things started to shake, all lead to a fateful night where the units were trapped. Many died, or were left horrified of what had occupied. But there is one question that remains, is the tactician really dead? The courts decided he was indeed dead, but perhaps a traitor who sold all our secrets to the enemy at hand." Rowlin nodded, "oh what a flaw tale..." He softly replied. the ending carries the biggest flaw, mainly because the courts have left the case open... and he always attended everything ; he simply dressed up as a lower ranked guard which everyone assumed was Derrick's escort. It obviously worked if they all believe this-"I hearddifferently.." Vidal interjected. "That he led his men into the trap knowing it was a trap. That he was cold hearted and cared less for his men. Hence the courts adjourned it slaughter." Ungus snapped his fingers, "but there is also the possibility of someone selling out the tactician. Someone who waited until he reached the ranks and led his team astray." "Well.." Drew tapped his side, "It was also said that the tactician came from Ireland, hence they entered from the outside to assist, but they were swayed easily by our enemies only to be back stabbed at their finest hours" "And what has any of that to do with our question at hand?!" Jakup stomped the ground in frustration. "You are all evading the question at hand, and on top of that looking for a reason to get what you want. I'd rather be prisoner then listen to you four accuse without a cause. So what if the tactician was Irish, he's dead, hence leave him dead. Oh, but our colleague here too is Irish and you all assume it will happen again? Please, quit with these games, you'd all be dead if this were an actual scenario-" he stopped in his tracks when Rowlin lightly tapped him. "Hence let's get back on track." He coughed rightly.
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Post by featherleg on Jan 8, 2017 15:37:50 GMT -5
(It's all good Willow! Thanks for letting me know ^^ I hope your classes go well) Aika's brows furrowed as her gaze switched between each man as they spoke, her frustration and impatience building visibly as her arms crossed over her chest and her hands tightening in grip on her upper arms. "I didn't ask about any Tactician, now did I?" Her voice changed to a dark and cold tone, one of which she only used with her generals during war meetings. "Maybe my question wasn't clear enough? Or maybe some of you are too focused on your own personal objectives to answer as an actual unit? Regardless, the answer is clear to me. Attacking anyone in this army is a message from an opposing side, and it's directly towards me. It doesn't matter if the attackers motive was personal towards the victim or not, in this situation any attack towards anyone serving to protect me is an attack meant to injury me. Now, I trust any man or woman that serves in this army regardless of their past as each soldier was chosen by my own retainer. However, it seems as though my trust is being tested." (Also, I'm going to say that Aika has the arrow that wounded Rowlin just to keep the story/tension going if that's alright) She walked over to one of the corners of the room where a few weapons had been placed and stocked. Carefully, she grabbed an arrow that has been split in two, with the tip covered in blood. "Did you know that our army supplies our archers with arrows that have the Hakuryu family crest carved into them? It's there so we can easily recover them in case they don't break. It seems that this own did however after impact." She placed the two pieces on the table that stood between her and the rest of them. "I found this today while out training. Strangely enough, it wasn't used to hunt prey, which your unit was instructed to do. It also wasn't used to attack an enemy soldier, for if it was we wouldn't be having this discussion. So, thinking as a unit and answer this for me: one was the one that was injured by this arrow?" Auransky
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Post by Auransky on Jan 8, 2017 16:11:49 GMT -5
featherleg (what a juicy turn of events! It's all good) The six quickly fell silent at the change if mood. the men quickly stepped back and adjust their formation, this was falling out of line and they all knew it.Gazed were changed to keep a serious still front. It was only when the weapon says shown that individual expressions changed for the bitter. "Who's to say that it wasn't another unit?" Ungus softly asked. "I'm no bow user, but anyone who is could easily take to the woods and hide. But it could also be a mishap, someone aiming for a bird." "I didn't even know that someone was injured to begin with." Vidal tilted his head now. "We-We keep a close count on injured soldiers and rotate units based on whi is fit and well." Drew was hesitating to speak, but Grayson wrapped an arm around his shoulder. This caught him off guard, and what came out next left him speechless. "Forgive me my lady, but it was us who claim witness to this injury. We do not know who was injured, but we were simply hunting a bird hence flew across the sky. It was hard to see with the trees covered in snow, so I told him to aim and we went searching for the prey. We never once realized it was a person to say the least. But hearing sounds we thought it be best to steer clear." He dragged Drew closer, "Drew meant no harm when drawing the bow... nor we realize we hit anything to come. Our angle was ill lit is all." Drew was silent , shock and frustration. M-My bow-your aim.... how dare he... "I hold no bearing, and I refused take part in this deed." He shoved Grayson away. "I was out doing my task, when I turned my bow was in Grayson's hand. I didn't realize what he shot, he just told me to run." He quickly spoke, this turn of events lost his cool. "What DoD heshoot, I wish to know..." oh you are not getting out of this one.. Grayson locked his foot against Drew's "oh you know what you shot. Quit speaking these lies, i use blades not bows now come to your senses." Please...stop this ... anyone Rowlin's eyes skimmed Vidal and Ungus who were more then confused. But as much as he wanted to see someone step forward, he felt guilty in allowing this pleasire to continue. Can we just pretend it was someone who does not exist-that would be for the best...
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