Demisexual
Leo
Surviving off Thai tea and Miguel O'hara
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Post by Leo on Oct 26, 2020 13:56:50 GMT -5
Zelos still didn't turn to look at his human. The only indication that he hadn't fallen back asleep was that his tail was still moving and his ears twitched every so often. he sighed heavily then started moving to stand and stretch. The frustration was clear in his voice, even more so when he spoke.
"Yes, I would rather stay here," he began finally looking at Leon with an annoyed gaze. "But, from the tone in your voice, I know that you'll be upset if I don't come to help save the little prince. Besides, after that last elemental, I can't trust you all not to get yourselves killed. I, unfortunately, like you," he grumbled as he arched his back and shook out his wings and fur. Leaping from his resting spot and onto Leon's shoulders.
"And I'm not nervous about our group," he countered in terms of him needing to hide. "I am wary of other humans. Magic is not always liked among masses, you know this," Zelos grumbled again. He rolled his eyes and settled around her shoulders "Let's go save your prince."
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Post by πππππ π¨ on Oct 26, 2020 19:49:31 GMT -5
Crown Prince.
Not just prince anymore. Now he was really in line for that throne, at least until his sister married and had a child. That child would take his place as the heir to the throne, given they'd be old enough to take over.
For the next 20 years, at least, Carlo would be in the light, he'd be in the line of succession for that throne. Every mistake would be noticed, any slip up would be charted.
The very idea was horrifying.
Worse yet, if Tia pulled that run away card, he'd be left in charge. Carlo was no ruler, father had always made sure he knew. Sure, his father did love him, but his father was also scared of what his abilities could do to their family. Thus, Carlo was to be as far from leading as possible.
And yet, now it was close, and even worse, he was orphaned, and his only remaining family was an elder sister who had never forgiven him. He feared few things, not being the most sunning in the room, his dad and mom and their attitude, and Tia.
Light spilled from under his chamber doors. He wasn't in the room, but when he heard Callan's door, he scuttled behind some curtains. He had gotten good at scrambling through the castle like that. A mother outside mother and father's door, in front of Callan's, and Tia's. Blooms to represent the emotions he didn't have the gall to face.
It was better if they had no clue who sent such blooms, let them think they came from admirers. He hadn't a care for it. He just knew neither would want to see him in person, and Tia had so much on her plate now, he'd much rather stay out of it. No one treated Tia like the queen she was, had always been, and he had been the cause.
He was expected to appear for Holiday though. As he checked his suit in the glass, his reflection barely visible due to the darkness outside, he fixed his tie ever so slightly, winking at his reflection with his charming grin.
Grinning, he scurried out from behind the curtains, sauntering to the doors and pushing them open with his classical swagger. Over-the-top some would say, but they had no taste in true perfection at all.
As the doors closed behind him, he quickly dodged out of line of sight from Adrestia, barely concealing his own laughter at how awkward his elder sister was with the dignitaries. He got a few odd stares from some of the surrounding people, but he quickly went to talking with them, easing up the awkward feel.
They quickly fell into conversation with the boy, Carlo was a charming personality, even if he was a bit dramatic and self-centered at times.
"Your sister, Adrestia, what is your opinion of her rule so far, young Prince?" a small bow of the head, an older gentleman was interrupting Carlo's conversation, drawing the bow to shrug.
"Too early to tell, sir," He commented back, remembering the pleasantry last minute, "I can tell you some embarrassing tales of my elder sister, however, if you ever need some blackmail," he joked, switching the course of the conversation, earning some soft chuckles from the man in question.
We he was done, the man flurries away like a petal onto wind, and the boy backed up, looking over at Tia. His sister, the perfect flower of the family, these people were stupid to find her unable to rule.
With a glance at Callan, Carlo journeyed to the opposing side of the room, creating as much distance as possible.
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Post by Ζ€Ξ±ΖΖΞ±Ρ β§ on Oct 30, 2020 18:32:10 GMT -5
Alex had been trying since the discovery of Minke and Alexβs admission to Dante about his magic to figure out how to control his magic. He didnβt dare practice with it until he knew his father was in bed and nobody would see him. He had to keep it secret. Besides, he was too scared to remove the bracelets for too long. As much as he hated them, they had very cleverly made Alex fear his own powers, unsure of the extent or danger of his abilities without them. So they were a twisted sort of crutch for him, safety he could bolt to.
He figured the only way to help with this fear was knowledge.
Which was why he found himself entering the vast library of the palace. The prince wasnβt often to be found in that room but he knew about all the knowledge it contained. Heβd studied many tomes from this room when he was a child as part of his tutoring and had still not even scratched the surface of what the library held.
He pushed open heavy wooden doors, stepping into a room with a silent and heavy air. A hushed atmosphere that seemed somehow charged, as if someone was about to speak and one was focusing to hear what they were about to say, hanging on their every word. Huge wooden shelves filled with hundreds of books stretched towards ceiling, the golden embossing on the spines of some volumes glinting in the light. His footsteps sounded louder on the wooden floor, though muffled by the wall of books.
Alexiaresβ eyes drifted to the figure of Dante, silhouetted against the light of a candle as he stretched, a book lying closed on the table before him. Alex approached Dante, but not before he pulled one of the books Alex himself had been looking for from the shelf on the way.
βDante,β Alex greeted βI thought this place would be empty, I-β
He lifted the book he was holding to indicate the cover to Dante, another book on magic. He was hoping it might contain not just information on Alexβs own abilities, but perhaps also knowledge of the gemstones he and Minke had to suppress their abilities. Anything that might be useful to him at this point.
Honestly, his life had never felt particularly together. But with all of this about his magic being suppressed and about Minke, he felt like it was all falling apart. Suddenly he had a whole mother part of his life - his magic - to learn to manage and control.
β-I wanted to help with the research,β he explained, the words almost sounding more like an admission of guilt than an offer to help. As if him wanting to help Dante, as if Alex starting to care about something for once in his life, was somehow wrong.
It wasnβt, but starting to care scared him. Not caring was safer, less room for hurt. Less room for Alex to mess everything up.
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Demisexual
Leo
Surviving off Thai tea and Miguel O'hara
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Post by Leo on Nov 1, 2020 13:10:42 GMT -5
The sun peeked through the curtains of his room windows as he woke. Which means it wasn't morning, the sun was setting and he had locked himself away in his room all day. How could anyone blame him? After all, it was so close to the day when he had lost his friends there years ago.
He rates thinking about it. Tries to push it out of his mind with parties and work and sleep. But there were always little reminders the reared their ugly heads. Forcing him to remember how stupid he had been back then. How unfortunately lucky he was to be the only one to get out alive.
His mind played tricks on him in his never-ending grief. Seeing his two friends as if they were walking away from him. It was painful to think out...
Rolling over to the side, the young lord sat up from his bed and rubbed the temples of his head. He needed a change of scenery. Breathe in fresh air instead of the stale stench of wine, dust, and old food in his room. He sighed heavily and forced himself to his feet, to find a shirt and a coat. Just enough to look put together without having to put effort into the outfit.
With that accomplished, he strolled out of his chambers, into the hall where two servant girls stopped giggling at whatever they were laughing at and bowed their heads to him. He didn't pay them much thought. He seemed like a ghost of himself. Not completely there but still physical. Hardly acknowledging the people around him.
Only when he reached the stables did he actually see anything. He approached his horse and gave her nose a pet, smiling as she pushed her head into his hands demanding attention like she always did. Turning to a stable boy, Declan ordered for him to ready his horse.
As he stepped away to let the boy work, Declan came face to face with Viscount Emille Byron Rutherford, his face a worried mess. His hands were folded behind his back and his eyes seemed to study the state of his son. "Where are you headed off to, Declan?"
Declan shrugged and mimicked his father's stance, folding his arms behind his back and raising his chin higher. "I didn't have a destination in mind. I thought I might just ride to clear my head," he explained glancing to where the stable boy was still working.
"Is that such a good idea? Your mother would worry about you," the Viscount started, clearly trying to place all of the blame on his wife and not just say what he was thinking. "Perhaps you should take the guards-"
Declan reached out and placed a hand on his father's shoulder and smiled. "I'll be fine, father," He soothed lowering his voice and giving his shoulder a comforting squeeze. "I'll be back before you even realize I'm gone."
Turning on his heel, Declan ushered a quick and quiet sigh as he let the smile fall from his lips. Mounting his horse, he quickly urged the mare towards the forest at a gallop. Fast enough to escape the prying eyes of everyone at the estate.
Out into the dark woods, the smell of pine, and the rush of adrenaline that came as the wind brushed past his face. And yet his mind was still clouded.
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Demisexual
Leo
Surviving off Thai tea and Miguel O'hara
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Post by Leo on Nov 1, 2020 13:50:54 GMT -5
Elena laughed at Lilith's comments. If she were the person she was before, if she was the young girl who had run away from home, she might have been offended and backed off. But, this Elena felt no pain from such words. Especially from Lilith.
"Come now," Elena cooed leaning forward and raising an eyebrow. "Don't insult me by saying I'm the worst person you've ever met. We both know that I'm only the second," She muttered gesturing to Lilith with the letter from her father. In the back of her mind, she seemed to realize it was still in her hand and quickly pocketed it. She'd have to remember to read it later, away from Spring eyes.
And especially away from Lilith.
Relaxing once again in her chair, Elena drummed her fingertips into the table rhythmically as she spoke her next words. "And yes. You are very perceptive dear Lilith," The leader scoffed, her golden eyes scanning the room of the tavern through hooded lashes. "I do have business here. Although, I hear whispers that it might be the same thing you're here for," She said, her eyes glancing in Lilith's direction and her smiling fading.
There was a long pause as Elena studied her rival. They had been doing this careful predator dance around each other for years. Ever since they had first met they were wary of each other. They were both still alive because of that wariness. But, it also made Elena that much more competitive when it came to the other woman.
Elena tore her eyes away from Lilith and went back to watching the room. "Originally I had planned to beat you here but... It seems I've only just made it in time."
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Post by πππππ π¨ on Nov 1, 2020 17:10:33 GMT -5
The sunlight was shimmering, cascading in soft ripples over the pillow-like clouds. Bouncing beams of iridescent waves, weaving through silken white.
βThatβs it Korinna!β The man with the brown wings, beating softly, strong, had said to the smaller, pale girl. He had an arm on her wrist, keeping her up as he balanced on cotton clouds, wings extended from his lean shoulder blades.
βDonβt drop me!β The little girl, tiny as could be, screeched as she curled in closer to the manβs chest, eyes closing reflexively. From her back, two sprouts of white and blue waved uselessly through the air, the wind moving the feathers.
βI wonβt, okay?β He grinned at the girl, though he chuckle as he turned on his back, wings skimming clouds as he let the girl hug him. Finally the child opened her eyes, which widened as she took in the sky before her. Expanses of blue and white and gold.
With newfound confidence, the wings on her back lifted, touching the wind and sky, a smile on her face as she giggled. Her blond hair, almost white in color, bobbed on currents of wind. Flapping her own wings, the girl laughed once more as she took airborne, flying higher once more.
βDada! Look! You can see home from here!β She had flown up, the blue tips of her wings moving slowly, keeping her in a gentle hover. Below, she could spot their cabin. Their home.
βYeah, Korinna,β He responded, coming up to hug her as they looked upon their small home, βYeah, you can.β
She grinned over at him, only to freeze up, the Sky was dark, the clouds darkened, lightning on the horizon. Her father looked horrified, trying to speed closer, but she lost sight of him in a cloud.
As current of wind hit her, spinning her out of control. Her hands skimmed uselessly at empty sky, droplets of rain cutting like razors.
When she finally righted herself, she seemed older, wingspan larger, desperate, as she looked back at the direction of her family. She couldnβt see it, darkened clouds covered the sight. Thunder rumbled close and far.
βSomeone? Anyone?!β She hoarsely called, wings beating faster as she tried to dive away from the clouds. Though a strike of the lightning hit right before her, maybe hit her. It was bright, and loud.
Diving away from the torrential fear and rain, the young girl found a clearing in the clouds, flying towards that. A breath of relief.
The sky was blanketed in darkened grey, like ashes and stone. Below, rain could be seen falling, like pellets of tiny bullets.
Her skin was starting to match the grey, much to her horror. But before she could figure it out, she started falling, and falling. Her wings frozen, curled uselessly.
The sky blurred into one imagine, lines of rain lost to the fall. The grey blurring with white. Laughs blurring with cries for help. A smile, tears. Everything was like tears.
It ended when she shattered upon the ground, thousands of crystals and stones scattering about.
-
A gasp, awakening.
Korinna didnβt really need to sleep. Though, in entirety, she wasnβt entirely dead? She didnβt know much. She and Puck, they were both linked to Declan. The poor, young lord. She knew he was weighed down in guilt.
She tried to stay out of his way. She could tell he was troubled, so linked to him now, as she was. Still, she gave him some privacy, time to talk to his father. She walked the halls, instead, fixing her feathery collar of ivory plumes. Almost like a feather capelet, attire she wore when she died. Not like it ever got dirty. Not unless Declan found some way to summon them.
Her arms crossed, the skin was ice cold, like stone. Though she watched as Declan ran to go outside. Following, she spotted him getting his hourse.
She sighed, shaking her head. She could sense when Declan got too far, the cold feeling, empty and hollow, would increase. That artifact he had held their souls. All because of that...
It didnβt matter, she decided. Two twin wings sprouted from her back, white feathers with blue stripes and tipsy, much like the skill blue tips inner pale hair.
Becoming airborne, she sped after her friend, though no leaves moved as she sped by. She still laughed, smiling as she neared the horse. βMorning, Declan! You eat breakfast?β
Her overprotective nature, it seemed, would never be forgotten. Still, she kept herself feet off the ground, in line with the horse.
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Post by πππππ π¨ on Nov 2, 2020 22:48:12 GMT -5
Dante was so tied up in his book, he barely noticed when the prince came in. The poor advisor was exhausted, in his defense. Although spooked by the prince's entrance, the younger boy covered it with a gentle raise of an eyebrow. "It's late, Alex."
It was almost a warning, just a tone of 'please don't be an asshole'. Though his attention soon turned back to his book, though he wasn't reading anymore.
Cursed prince stole his attention now, though when Alex looked a bit stressed. More than usual. Dante only knew that because he had to tend the boy for a while now. The poor prince did have a rough last few days.
"Yeah, I'd...uh, appreciate the help." He responded, after lowering his own book once more. The milky white pages slipped through his fingers, like cotton fabric. He had always treasured books, found a home in the knowledge.
The tones of guilt didn't escape Dante, not even as he set the book down, the charcoal cover glaring up at him tauntingly under the light. Curse it all, he couldn't stand it when Alex seemed so sad and guilty. What did Alex have to feel bad for, other than being a giant thorn in Dante's side?
Letting off a breath, the boy looked over Alex, roaming his eyes over the other boy and scoffing, "I know it isn't my place to pry, and I really am doing it because it's my job, but what's wrong?" Other than his dad beating him in the past and him being a literal illegal being? Nice going Dante.
And obviously, it was because of his job. There was no way he cared in any capacity about Alex and his disgusting feelings. Reopening his book, he took to skimming a few lines. It had been one written recently, which made it such an interesting tale. A modern take on an ancient practice.
Electrix tend to have electric golden eyes, alluring and sharp. They are shocking individuals, literally and figuratively. Magic tends to be shown in a yellow shade, though it may vary. Individuals are considered dangerous, for they can electrocute their enemies if not held in careful regard.
He scoffed, closing the book. After hearing about how Alex was forced to hide his powers, Dante wanted nothing when hearing how Electrix should be maintained to prevent collateral damage.
He wasn't topo entirely heartless, after all. The book had one thing right, Alex's eyes did look very alluring and sharp, at least, when he wasn't forced to hide his magic. It made him wonder what they would look like without all the chains, when Alex got stronger with his abilities?
And what of Minke's?
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Post by πππππ π¨ on Nov 2, 2020 22:55:16 GMT -5
Leon, despite the stressful situation, and her dislike of the old man waiting downstairs, grinned at her companion. Ruffling his fur as he perched on her shoulder, she shrugged ever so slightly, "Unfortunately, I like you too, for some reason."
All in jest. She would never mean an insult, a real, hurtful one, not to Zelos. She loved the little guy with all her heart, she'd die to protect the creature. She was sure the feeling was mutual.
Though his comment about magic and the opinions of the masses had her freeze ever so slightly. The black, necrotic look on her fingertips was a horrifying reminder of her own abilities last time. Enough to pass off as bloody scabs, though they didn't bear much of a resemblance to cuts. They looked more like ink staining bruises. The location was beneficial at least, she could have stained them on charcoal or any sort of thing.
The idea, however, of someone hurting Zelos had her snapping back into the moment. "If anyone put a finger on you, they wouldn't live to blink an eye." She said easily, pulling over a scarf, to gently cover him, as so to fend off the cold. She knew he had fur, but a gesture of kindness was probably due, with this whole journey comin upon them.
With that, she started to head downstairs.
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Post by Ζ€Ξ±ΖΖΞ±Ρ β§ on Nov 3, 2020 20:35:02 GMT -5
Lilith wasnβt blind to the letter Elena had pocketed, but she didnβt bring it up yet. She just carefully noted it; it could be information that would come in useful later on. She wanted to keep her cards close to her chest, not reveal to Elena that sheβd notice that detail yet.
βOh, Elena,β Lilith smirked βI never thought for a moment you were the type whoβd be insulted by being called the worst person Iβd met. You thrive too much on being hated.β
She took a sip of her drink once again, eyeing the woman sitting next to her warily. Lilith wanted to keep her control of this conversation, but Elena was a good match for her and Lilith always found it hard to keep the conversational balance in her favour when the two of them talked.
Still, she raised an eyebrow when Elena mentioned that she had business nearby, and that it could even be the very same business for which Lilith was also in the area.
βI must have misheard you, my dear,β Lilith replied coolly βI know youβre smarter than to attempt to encroach on my business, and to admit it right to my face, no less.β
Lilith has been in this business longer than her counterpart, had fought too hard to make a life for herself this way. And most of all, sheβd kept the value instilled in her from her royal upbringing of never accepting even the slightest disrespect from anyone.
She could not let this slide without comment. To do so would virtually be giving Elena permission to try and take business from Lilith.
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Post by πππππ π¨ on Nov 4, 2020 0:23:53 GMT -5
As it went, Ernestine had made some appointments with some high ranking officials in other allied kingdoms. Now Ress had to leave the kingdom, all for her mother's mission. She wasn't to be alone though, at least.
The invitation was heavy in her hands. First they were to visit the new queen of Wisteria, represent Rajani and give the new queen their condolences. Should be easy enough.
Other events were more...dire, not that Ress would remain on guilt over it. It would all be much easier if she could assign a meeting with that criminal, Lilith, or maybe the leader of the Sirens, Elena. Though she wouldn't be back to Rajani in a long while.
Sheathing the sword she had, as a part of the guard, one of the leading figures under her adopted mother, not yet a true heir. But through this mission, she'd prove her worth, she was sure. She could claim the thing she spent her whole life trying to achieve. Becoming an heir, someone Mother could be proud of.
The bruise on her upper arm was sore still, but hidden under fabrics and skinny armor. A reminder of what failure would bring. Failure wasn't an option.
Dark eyes narrowed at her visage in the mirror of her room. Brunette hair pulled back slightly, out of her face. She surely wasn't a picture of royalty. The queen was never short on reminding her of that much. She was all stone and ice, not pretty curves and pristine cleanness. Princesses weren't supposed to have blood on their hands.
Once ready, the young girl walked out of her meager chambers. Her gaze flickered over the guards in the castle, the familiar fear of being discovered in her veins. Ernestine was never short on reminding Ress of her affliction. Darkness followed her like a plague, and one wrong move, one betrayal of Ernestine, and she could be killed. She was very loyal to the Queen.
Exiting the castle rather quickly, she pet her spotted mare. After spending some of her attention on the creature, she set off to find Atlas. Ernestine had ordered he attend on the journey, to take bounty on magic users and that such. Such an uncomfortable idea, being around such a man. She never used her abilities though, fear was a suppressor in her case. She feared what would happen if Atlas ever did find out.
So she resorted that he never would.
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Demisexual
Leo
Surviving off Thai tea and Miguel O'hara
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Post by Leo on Nov 4, 2020 2:47:20 GMT -5
As the girls passed by, the young woman watched them with mild curiosity in her eyes. How they giggled like girls and were careful to keep their skirts out of the mud. Skirts all filled with frills and bows and ruffles. Dyed colors like the early morning sky or the new grass of spring. Athena felt a pang of jealousy as she watched the women from her alleyway. Not because she missed wearing such fancy and frivolous things, but because it reminded her of better times. Of Ivory walls and open windows. Of children's laughter throughout a castle and the frantic and scolding words of a governess. She missed her sister's hands in hers and the trouble they would cause. She missed being annoyed of them and she missed people having to bow to her, even though now it would feel odd. She missed feeling important. Part of her missed being a princess while the other part liked being able to walk around with a blade at her side and no one would question her. At least not too much. And that part of her was bolder and more secretive than her younger self. Something she liked better. At the moment, Athena had nothing better to do. No one was looking for a mercenary or wanted to cause trouble, and no one was currently looking for her. Which is how she'd rather keep it. However, she was bored and watching people be much happier than her on the street was not a way to pass the time. Glancing upward she caught the castle in her sights. What could her young friend be up to at this moment? Hopefully, nothing that would keep his attention away from her for too long. ~~~~~~~~ It wasn't hard for Athena to sneak into the castle. It had gotten easier and easier as time went on and the more often see did it. Plus it helped that Alex ha told her different ways to avoid the guards and get to him. It had all become second nature to her at that point. Now the real challenge was finding Alex in this giant place. She, of course, checked his room first. Not there. She went to the dining hall next. Empty as well. She went to the ballroom, the courtyard, the gardens, only to find that the prince was nowhere to be found. She almost figured he wasn't there until she decided to check the library. And there she heard voices. One she didn't recognize... but the other she did. Entering the room quietly, Athena snuck behind the boys and glanced at what they seemed to be researching. She paused in her tracks when she caught some of the words. Magic. They were reading about magic. But why? "Reading something interesting I hope?" She spoke up suddenly, her violet eyes looking between the two. |
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Demisexual
Leo
Surviving off Thai tea and Miguel O'hara
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Post by Leo on Nov 4, 2020 3:33:11 GMT -5
Elena smiled at that and spared her the barest of glances. Lilith was assuming too much now. They had known each other for so long now but it still seemed the other woman forgot who she was talking to. Her rival in business and wits.
"No, novia," Elena said silencing the drumming of her fingers and looking away again. Not giving Lilith the attention she wanted. "You heard me correctly. But, in case you need to hear it again I'll repeat myself."
Leaning over the table and lowering her voice so only Lilith could hear, Elena spoke slowly and clearly. "We're here for the same thing. And I expect to walk away with all of it. I fully expect you to try and beat me to it."
Elena moved away and looked out a nearby window, gathering exactly what time it was. "Well, look at the time. I should be getting ready for tonight. So should you actually," Elena stood and fixed her coat around her shoulders giving Lilith her famous cocky smile before turning and beginning to walk away. Before she was completely gone, Elena looked over her shoulder and called back. "Look forward to seeing you!"
Elena Valentina Mendoza was very smart. She wouldn't be alive this long if she wasn't. Nor would she command such a large army of thieves and gang members. So, no she wasn't idiotic.
However, she was stupidly fearless.
The boy with the eyepath from earlier approached Lilith's table, a mug of ale in is hands. "Compliments from the Lady Siren," He said quickly before placing it on her table and running after his leader out the door.
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Post by Ζ€Ξ±ΖΖΞ±Ρ β§ on Nov 5, 2020 17:13:08 GMT -5
One thing Callan liked about his job was that he was able to blend in relatively well. The attention was never on him; he was safe to watch from the background. Keep an eye on Tia and do his job without these strange dukes and lords attempting to talk to him all the time. Mostly, anyway.
βCallan Verndari?β
The guardβs attention was caught by an old and particularly irritating-looking man. The kind of man Callan usually preferred to avoid because you start a conversation with him would mean heβd never get away. Not to mention theyβd all known him since a child and nobody liked hearing embarrassing stories about their childhood.
βDuke Llewelyn,β Callan greeted βA pleasure to see you here tonight, Your Grace.β
Callan made it his business to know every noble in the kingdom. And the neighbouring kingdoms to boot. Tia could end up finding that information useful, and Callan made it a point to do anything he could to help her.
His smile was tight and his gaze kept wandering to Tia as he tried to keep an eye on her, but the duke didnβt seem to take the hint.
βYouβve been made head of the Queenβs personal guard already,β Duke Llewelyn commented, though he gave the young man a distrustful look, doubt in his narrowed eyes βhow long have you been training?β
Apparently the Verndari name and family legacy wasnβt enough to convince some people of Callanβs qualification to protect the queen. Still, he kept the smile on his face as he spoke the next words.
βAbout as long as youβve been training to stuff your face with the queenβs hors dβoeuvres.β Callan replied, watching as the dukeβs mouth dropped open in shock before making a quick exit with a sharp βnow, if youβll excuse me, Your Grace...β
It was just as heβd dodged out of the dukeβs path that the queen passed him, increasing their bet to 15 gold, to which Callan had to hold in a laugh of his own. Still, he was glad heβd amused the queen somewhat. This evening wouldnβt be easy for her.
Callan noted Carlo entering the room, the young prince also swarmed by the nobles before seemingly moving as far away from Callan as possible. Which of course meant the guard was going to have to go over there and talk to him.
They hadnβt been as close ever since Carlo had told the king about an attempt by Callan and Tia to run away when they were younger. The night before Callan left for the army for the first time. Callan has been a little mad at him, to be fair, but Carloβs own fear of their reactions seemed to have done more to frighten the prince into not talking to him, obviously thinking Callan and Tia hated him for this.
The guard approached the young prince, moving to stand next to him. They hadnβt talked in so long, barely spoken a word since that day. Well, to be fair Callan had barely been home on leave in all that time.
ββCarlo,β Callan greeted βIβve barely seen you since I got back. Itβs good to see you.β
All of that was true. And Callan regretted it. He wanted to patch things up with the younger boy if possible. The last thing he wanted, especially now his job would be protecting Tia, was for there to still be distance between him and Carlo. Theyβd be seeing one another a lot more often now.
βHowβre you enjoying the celebrations?β he asked βHer Majesty and I have a bet that that lord will lose his wig by the end of the night. Fifteen gold.β
Maybe Carlo would want in on the bet. That was a good icebreaker, right? A fun thing that might make things a little better? Or at least less awkward anyway.
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Demisexual
Leo
Surviving off Thai tea and Miguel O'hara
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Post by Leo on Nov 12, 2020 23:02:32 GMT -5
Night had fallen 2 hours ago, and with it, the people of Wisteria began their revelries in the town square. Cheering could be heard throughout the streets as well as music and laughter. The people were enjoying their time. Children sold flowers while couples danced under the light of lamps. Men could be heard drinking until their words slurred into one, while women danced around them, throwing their heads back and laughing.
Elena couldn't help but smile as she strolled through the people. Even wider her smile grew as she looked up at the sky and fireworks dazzled the black night. Colors of red, yellow, and greens filled the space above their heads causing the people to cheer even louder than they had been before.
And while the shouts in the streets were exciting, they weren't why Elena was here. None of this was a reason why she was suddenly wearing a nice looking dress that she hated and a fan over her face. It wasn't why one of her closest underlings was on her arm dressed not as a criminal but as one of the people. It wasn't why Elena had multiple people positioned where she wanted.
No, no, they were only here on business.
"Are you sure this is a good idea, Ma'am?" The man on her arm asked in a lowered voice. From an outsider's perspective, he looked calm and content. But to anyone who knew him, he was actually extremely nervous and was gripping Elena's arm a little too tightly. His robin's egg blue eyes darting among the crowd counting the people they had on standby.
Elena pulled him closer and grinned at him as a lover would. Though they were far from that. "Have some fun, Reed!" She chastised gently. Leaning forward she kissed his temple and chuckled quietly as she rested her forehead there. "We're going to be a lot richer after this."
"Elena what if we're caught?" Reed questioned, feeling freer to use her name instead of a formality. "What if Lilith tries to stop you? You weren't exactly tactful when you confronted her earlier."
"Mi pequeΓ±o tonto, you worry too much!" Elena cooed, stopping their walk and turning to face her second. She looked him pointedly in the eye and lifted his head a bit with her fingers. Raising her eyebrows she smiled gently at him. "I have and never will be caught. Besides, if the bastard shows up, I'll deal with her. Now, get in position," she told him and pushed him away.
Reed took a couple of steps away from her when she pushed him but stopped and looked back to give her a worried look. Then he turned and disappeared into the crowd.
Fireworks caught Elena's attention once more and she looked up at where the sound had come from. But, her attention was taken from the fancy lights to the building in the distance behind them.
The Castle.
It was too dangerous to raid that place just yet. Especially with the all too recent death of the king and queen. It was sure to be way more heavily guarded than before.
A shame. But, it was only temporary.
Trumpets sounded loudly from down the square. The attention of everyone there was grabbed and pulled towards a man surrounded by soldiers (Two of which were carrying a chest) and musicians. He was dressed head to toe in the finest clothes and jewels glittered off his fingers as he proudly walked past those of lower birth. Strutting around like a peacock, flaunting his riches on a holiday.
And he dares wear a crown so close to the caslte.
If he wasn't a noble himself, Elena might have liked Lord Octavious Magnus simply for his boldness. Sure, the crown was made of inferior material than that of a real one. But the message was clear:
Why shouldn't he rule this kingdom instead of some child?
Well, if no one else was going to tell him then Elena certainly would.
Putting on the lost girl act, Elena started walking towards him, acting as if she were oblivious to his presence. All until she bumped directly into his side with her own.
Acting shocked she turned to face him, eyes wide and mouth agape as she gasped. "SeΓ±or!" She said quickly in a different language. She backed up and bowed her head quickly in apology. Even when one of the Lord's men dared to grab her arm a little too tightly.
Elena hated that her flinch wasn't acted.
But, she was saved by Octavious. He raised a hand and approached Elena guiding her head to look up at him. As he did so, Elena got a look at his frame, what he was wearing, and if he had any weapons on him. Thin, with graying hair, smooth hands so not a hard worker or a soldier, and his shoes were already dirty but he didn't seem to care. He had money to spend for years.
Good. Settles, Elena's conscious. Not that she had much of one anyway.
Looking up at the lord with wide eyes, Elena glanced away from his eyes and bit her lip, her hands clutched at her chest as if she were nervous. She'd made sure to study what types of women he liked. It wasn't hard to do when the man was famous for cheating on his wife every week.
"Dedica un momento de tu tiempo a un miserable como yo?" Elena asked quietly. When the Lord looked at her with a question in his eyes, she pretended to try and find the right words. "I'm sorry, SeΓ±or. My common is poor," She tried again, this time she looked up at him and gave him a sweet smile. "May I walk with you? To apologize for running into you?"
This Octavious seemed to agree with and smiled down at her. "Of course my dear," he muttered quietly already looping her arm through his and beginning to walk again.
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Post by Ζ€Ξ±ΖΖΞ±Ρ β§ on Nov 13, 2020 17:47:03 GMT -5
Danteβs comment about it being late caused the young prince to smirk.
βYes, but believe it or not, Iβm all grown up and can stay up as late as I want.β Alex commented in response
He remembered all the rules when he was a kid. In fact, all theyβd had were rules, he and Caspian. The only difference was that Alexiaresβ older brother seemed to thrive under the rules and structure where Alex had not. Still, heβd understood the rules when he was very small and the war was happening. They were for his own safety. Not that the rules had done much to protect him in the end.
Heβd never spoken to anyone about the time heβd spent in Levina when they had held him hostage. Nobody knew anything about what had happened, and in fact Alex didnβt have much memory of it anyway.
The question about if he was okay surprised Alex a little; Dante didnβt usually ask stuff like that. In fact, it was extremely abnormal for Dante to show any kind of genuine concern for Alex at all. Still, he tried to avoid the other manβs question by pretending to focus extra hard on the book. Not that it would convince him, probably.
βYou mean, apart from the mess of shit that has been my life up to and including this point? Oh, Iβm just dandy.β answered the young man sarcastically
Still, there wasnβt much opportunity for further discussion, because a few moments later a female voice suddenly spoke up behind the two boys, startling Alex enough to make him jump out of his skin. Not that heβd ever admit that if it was brought up later.
He snapped the book shut as soon as she asked about it, closing the pages with an abrupt snap, ignoring the dust that flew up from the old book as soon as he did so.
βNothing you need to worry about,β Alex answered unconvincingly.
He knew sheβd probably seen what they were reading and that the lie was useless, but it was better than talking about the truth. And because he knew Athena was smarter than to believe his lie, the prince decided quickly to brush over the question and change the topic so she didnβt get a chance to press them any further.
Alex gestured between Athena and Dante, suddenly aware that the two of them had never met. In fact, the two of them meeting was probably the weirdest thing heβd ever experienced in his life. It was such a clash of universes.
βAthena, you should meet the man whose job it is to irritate me all day. Dante, this is... something else youβre not allowed to tell my father about. Sheβs a friend.β he explained
Strictly platonic, of course. Alex was gay, for starters. He just needed a friend. Someone apart from Dante to talk to. Someone outside of this palace, someone he knew he could talk to without it becoming broadcast through the entire royal family.
He felt bad about asking Dante to keep more secrets, but honestly it wasnβt like Alex could help most of the secrets he had. The magic thing couldnβt be helped. His fatherβs cruelty couldnβt be helped - well, not by Alex, anyway.
Besides, he couldnβt afford to lose Athena.
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Post by πππππ π¨ on Nov 13, 2020 18:36:46 GMT -5
For starters, Carlo didnβt scream, he didnβt jump, or do any of that....cowardly stuff. He merely...was testing Callanβs reactions, thatβs what!
Actually, no amount of anything would hide the princeβs meep of horror and completely cowardly jump into the air. As he turned, he had realized it had just been Callan. Red immediately bloomed over his features. Callan was cool and collected, and Carlo had been hoping to be as small as possible to stay out of his way. Now, not only was he messing that up (though who could blame Carlo for being that amazing? Itβs not his fault he was the brightest, most noticeable person in the room), he just made himself look like a fool.
He straightened up however, bring a hand up to smooth over his hair. Offering a borderline charming smile to Callan that came off more forced than it usually would. A stiffness to it, too much pulling on the cheeks. It looked more like the poor kid was a psycho.
Sadly Carlo had no idea how he had missed Callan moving over, the poor guard hadnβt snuck up on him. Carlo had just been distracted.
The guilt was even worse with Callan next to him. Though the smile eased up a bit, as Callan greeted him, followed by a wince. The words were like a slap in the face, no matter how Callan meant them. Callan had every right to be angry as it was.
Grabbing a nearby cup of something that smelled absolutely alcoholic, he lifted it to his mouth, speaking to Callan as he did so. βCallan!β That sounded too happy, like some kid meeting their hero (who was he kidding?), coughing to cover up the excited sound, he started his phrase again. βCallan, very nice to see you. Though you seem to be failing at your job,β a small sparkle in his eyes, βIβm sure the queen is going to miss you.β
He would never admit to his voice cracking when he said queen. Okay? Because it didnβt happen.
Tipping the class back, he sputtered at the taste and coughed slightly. Elegantly, he placed it on a nearby table, making a face of disgust as he looked back at Callan. Was that a question? It sounded like Callan asked a question.
Carlo hadnβt been listening, sue him. He only smiled and nodded for a moment as he caught the end of what Callan said. This situation was awkward, and it also made him scared. No dad or mom was there anymore to protect him from himself. No one to make up excuses for him to not go to galas. No one was ever really on his side as it was, but at least he wasnβt so scared.
He did his best to keep that emotion off his face, offering a tight smile then. β20,β he responded, at first, smile turning to a grinnas he looked forward, βHeβll lose it within the hour.β
He really wanted this night to end. Or to not be cornered by the dude whose life Carlo had ruined. Really, the whole entire thing was just making his feel bad and slightly scared. He could only hope to avoid Adrestia for the night.
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Post by πππππ π¨ on Nov 13, 2020 19:34:01 GMT -5
Dante rolled his eyes at Alexβs childish response. He focused back on the book, as much as he could, for a while. Though he flickered his gaze up when Alex answered him.
The evasion of it at first did little to please Dante. He raised an eyebrow at the prince, and fought off a triumphant smirk when Alex decided to rant a small bit. βIf you still have your flair for the dramatics, surely you arenβt that bothered.β A sarcastic comment, to bite back to the princeβs. He would never let Alex think he won, no matter how childish it was.
Under the pretext of reading his book, the advisor found he could not focus. Something about Alex kept drawing his attention, nagging in his mind. Stubbornly his forced himself to read a few sentences, or well, pretend to.
Then the blasted door opened. He immediately lifted the book, ducking behind it. Not too cowardly (totally like a coward), but more like a shield. Ironically, he almost shifted closer to Alex.
He pointedly slammed the book down, closing it as he stood. He cleared his throat slightly, an irritated glare thrown at the girl, barely taking in anything about her. βThis area of the castle is strictly off limits to...β when he finally took note of her, his voice died off.
He floundered for words for a moment, looking between Alex and Athena. Surely he missed something, she probably had contacts. Surely?
Alex started introducing them, though he quickly held up his hands. He was trying hard right now not to pass out, mind you. He wasnβt exactly known for taking the best care of himself (not that anyone would notice, he was a hard worker, he didnβt have time to fret frivolously over things like sleep). So in hindsight, it wasnβt really known at all, sure, he kept to himself, he liked it that way.
When he had a choice.
βDo you know her?β It was meant to be a question, really, but it came out really accusatory. Suddenly, he actually felt a bit spooked. He had made the mistake of hiding one too many things, and Alex was going to take him out with this...this girl.
He calmed slightly, because, well, acting stupid wasnβt going to held. Sitting down in his chair once more, he curled his arms into a pillow and laid his neck on it, looking over at Alex with a withering glare. βFriend?β He questioned, a taste of agitation in his voice. Of course this random girl would be a friend, because Dante had to be surrounded by absolute lunatics.
Sending Athena a borderline passive look, he rolled his eyes again and returned to reading his book. Though his voice piped up, not even looking up. βI do hope those are contacts, or this situation if going to become even trickier.β A pause, then, βAnd I hope you have more common sense than Alex does.β
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Post by Ζ€Ξ±ΖΖΞ±Ρ β§ on Nov 15, 2020 14:56:38 GMT -5
Patrick Allaire hadnβt been that much of a fan of life, and honestly so far the afterlife wasnβt that much better. Mainly because it involved a lot less freedom and fun than heβd thought it would, given he was tied to one of his friends - as was their other friend, who Patrick was now spending eternity with.
So much for the concept of eternal rest.
The one good thing about being dead was that heβd kept his youthful good looks, forever stuck at the age of 22. Which, as an age to be stuck as for eternity, wasnβt really all that bad to be honest. He tried not to think about the fact that heβd be 25 by now if he hadnβt passed away.
Nope, that was weird.
One thing that was worth noting about Patrick (though he often went by Trick or Puck) was that he was Factionless. The rest of his family, though, not so much. They were all Changelings, aside from the odd hybrid who had more unique power sets. He was the only one whoβd been born without any magic, and heβd made it his mission to show them all that he didnβt need magic for anything. More often than not, it had gotten him into trouble, but heβd never been the type to be concerned about that.
He tended to get by with charm and more... subtle ways of getting what he needed.
Though that had been getting harder of late; death really got in the way of things.
Talking of which, Patrick had also βawokenβ - as much as a spirit that didnβt need to sleep could awaken, anyway - along with Declan and Korinna. Kore, his partner in death and the biggest thorn in his side one could ever imagine. He loved Korinna, really he did, but the other spirit never wanted Declan to do anything fun. Or fun in Puckβs eyes, anyway, which usually meant chaotic and probably a little dangerous.
He watched as Kore pursued Declan as the other male headed outside and got onto his horse, and so he followed with a roll of his eyes. A morning ride? Great, really fun. For Declan anyway. It was less fun for Puck for reasons that were about to become abundantly clear.
The young lord rode away, and Kore sprouted those wings of hers and took off alongside him, flying at his side with ease as she questioned him (no doubt) about whether heβd eaten enough that morning or dressed warmly enough. Puck, being Factionless, didnβt have wings. Which in a normal situation wouldnβt be inconvenient but when he was a ghost and couldnβt get a horse of his own? Yeah, it was very convenient.
With a huff the young man took off at a run, sprinting to try and close the distance between him and Declanβs horse. It took a little while but he soon caught up for a moment. If he were living he would probably be going red, but thankfully he didnβt have that problem. The cold breeze as he sprinted rushed over icy cold skin.
βYou both,β Puck panted, chest heaving as he continued to try and keep up with the horse βare the worst.β
They were, in fact. The worst.
But he couldnβt keep up with Declan and the horse for long and was forced to slow down to a more comfortable pace. He might be dead but that didnβt make him a superhuman. He still kind of breathed? It was complicated. But running wasnβt something he could do any better than when he was alive. He couldnβt get to places any faster or teleport or whatever it was ghosts did (he still didnβt really understand it) unless he knew where he had to go and he really didnβt exactly know where Declan was heading.
Still, he was fine. He was just being dramatic, as usual.
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Post by Ζ€Ξ±ΖΖΞ±Ρ β§ on Dec 12, 2020 4:22:36 GMT -5
βYes, a friend,β Alex repeated βIβm allowed to have those. Did you seriously think Iβve never snuck of the palace before?β
Of course he did - all the time. Just never on Danteβs watch because it was almost impossible to sneak out of his sight. That was part of what made him so incredibly annoying. He was actually, like, dedicated to his job or whatever.
He also didnβt say anything to the comment about her eyes; that wasnβt Alexβs place to say and if Athena was staying silent then he would too. Alexiares knew some things about Athena, but by no means all of them. Both of them had a friendship where they were pretty comfortable with not sharing every single thing about themselves. It was the only way their friendship could properly function, he suspected.
They both just needed someone to listen to their problems with no judgement and support them. There was no obligation to share.
βIf she had more common sense than me I doubt we would be friends,β Alex pointed out with a raised eyebrow, so that at least heβd answered the second question.
His gaze went back down to the book as Athena asked what they were looking for. He wouldβve protested, but Athena quickly headed off any attempt to do so. With that the prince just shared a look with his advisor and shrugged, as if apologetic that he was going to have to share but that he really had no choice.
βInformation about magic,β Alex answered βmore specifically, repressing it. We have a... situation in the dungeons that Dante and I would like to make right.β
He didnβt mention his own magic, though he knew heβd probably have to eventually. If Athena knew Alex was having his magic repressed too then she might be more willing to help. As it was, Alex just cast a glance in the general direction of the dungeon.
βThereβs this girl down there, and theyβre repressing her magic with all these crystals. Weβre trying to figure out what we can do to help. We canβt just take them off, we have to find some kind of way to deactivate them.β
Dante might be mad at him for including Athena in this, but Alex trusted her. And besides, what harm could an extra person helping do?
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Post by πππππ π¨ on Dec 12, 2020 21:50:56 GMT -5
"I'm honestly surprised you have any friends as it is," Dante commented, reopening his book with a smirk pulling at his lips. Though it fell as he glared at Athena, no one got anywhere by playing nice with strangers. She could be a thief, for all they knew, and she looked the part too. Alex was an idiot for trusting her, Dante was sure. Then again, the Prince was kind of an idiot so Dante wasn't that surprised.
Without glancing away from his book, he flipped a page as he addressed new girl's comment, dry words just as smooth and dry as the pages under his fingers, "You can know of someone without knowing them, for example, I know your name now, Madame, but know nothing of your virtues and traits."
Was he kind of annoyed? Yes. This girl seemed to be friends with the Prince, which was a stressful thing all on its own. He didn't need to worry about what company Alex got himself attached to, and how easy of a target Alex made himself by doing so. Plus her eyes drew his attention, also like a deep blue, perhaps the lighting made him see violet. It wasn't that strange mystic color of Minke's, that ashen lilac, closer to the spectrum of wine.
Plus, Alex wasn't acting weird about it. Maybe this girl just had really pretty blue eyes that seemed to look violet in certain lighting. That wasn't impossible, not at all. Dante had seen hydras with such eyes, tales told of the old Princess having eyes so blue that they could look like a cloud of lavenders and sea foam in certain lighting. But that was regarded as some myths tale, and certainly the girl wasn't normal either. He thought on it a bit longer, trying to remember if the pigment could be considered natural, it seemed tame enough, not with an influx as bright as Minke's (when the girl used those abilities of hers, that is), but it still sat as odd to him.
His eyes flicked up in alarm to hers when she said he knew him. Almost fearing she recognized him from deep tombs of the past, but she just continued onwards, talking about how Alex mentioned him. He raised an eyebrow at the prince in return, glancing back at Athena with a rare moment of mirth in his natural color eyes, "Interesting," he commented, snorting slightly, "Talking about me to your friends, Prince?"
The borderline teasing comment gave way to panic as Alex began revealing information on their...issue. Not that Dante didn't trust random strangers that decided to randomly barge their way into his Researching, but he didn't trust this lady. Certainly not with the information about a magic prisoner with a powerful and feared type of magic. Certainly not with information about said girl either.
"Alex-" He warned, but Alex was talking more about the issue, and Dante glanced between both the prince and the girl in a small amount of panic. If wind of the Telekine got out, of Minke, not only would Minke suffer possible harm. Both Alex and Dante could suffer harm, the whole crown could be at stake over this.
"Alex-" He tried again, but the Prince mentioned more on the situation and honestly Dante wanted to strangle him. How the hell did Alex keep his own magic a secret this long? How had he not died?
"Prince Alexiares!" He finally commented, slamming his book to a close with a finality. That was his Council voice, face set in stony accord as he adjusted his glasses, "She trusted us with her issues, and you're spreading it around without her knowledge." The reprimand was harsh, voice slightly rising, but remaining steady and somewhat with a protective spark that was bit unusual to Dante, "Friend or not, we cannot know for sure what people will do with that information, so for the sake of our friend in the dungeons, we should keep this as anonymous as possible. That's what she wanted, remember?"
This day was a freaking train-wreck. Too many views had been challenged today and his entire outlook on the place he lived and worked in changed. His life changed, and here Alex was, trying to use it all as gossip. All to entertain this lady who just barged in without permission. Minke wasn't just some opportunity to entertain Alex's friends because they were bored, and Dante wasn't about to stand for it.
"Before you ask," He addressed the girl, voice falling to it's quieter, more somber normal tone, "You will not be seeing the girl. While Alex may know you, I don't, and I'm not risking our lives on Alex's poor decision making skills," for a moment he seemed to think, before tapping in, "and poor judgement."
He returned to reading, feeling a small amount of panic for having just interacted as he did. Dante was reserved, a bit scared, typically quiet and observant. But now there was another mysterious person and he kind of just wanted to take a nap. Of course, between his regular palace duties and now this, there wouldn't be any time for such affairs.
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Post by πππππ π¨ on Dec 12, 2020 22:13:59 GMT -5
The mare had trotted through the forest, spattering up collections of dew that had rested upon the ground. It was a glorious morning in the darkest climate of the kingdom, distance waters splashing at the coast near the waterfalls (and beyond into the forbidden seas). Rocky, yes, but surrounded by forests and darkness from the nearby that overshadowed the kingdom.
Atlas seemed to prefer the sunniest spots. So that's where Ress made her track. She knew she was on mark when she heard his voice, her dark eyes seeming to flicker into some semblance of life rather than the void they usually were. Working a small grin onto her face, she made quick work of tying her Mare to a nearby tree, giving special attention to the horse before finally approaching Atlas.
She attempted to walk quietly, but it was probably ineffective to the hunter. Realizing her own attempts were likely futile, she made herself heard, "Yeah, Atlas, it's me." She clarified, taking a deep breath. She smelled the dew on the plants, and if she wasn't careful, she may feel the bite of thorns and briars too. Used to the land, she took a seat next to Atlas, offering the man a nod.
She enjoyed the soft scent of smoke (rather than cold stone and pristine walls), and enjoyed the feel of sunshine on her back for just a moment, before she set her goals back in mind. "We have a mission from the queen," she commented, handing over a small piece of parchment, a report.
Continuing onwards regardless, she shrugged slightly, "We are to attend the events for the coronation of Queen Adrestia of Wisteria, to represent the Rajani kingdom in place of our Queen as her Royal Ambassadors," working up a sigh, she glanced at her own report, pocketing it. "Among other tasks."
They'd had to leave immediately, Rajani sat further from some of the other kingdoms due to being on the peninsula of Oikoumene. The journey would take a few days on Horse Back. "We are set to leave by day's end," though, leaving immediately would be best, she didn't add it, "Any materials we shall need will be provided to us at the port near the outskirts of Rajani, near the village of Rooke."
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Demisexual
Leo
Surviving off Thai tea and Miguel O'hara
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Post by Leo on Dec 16, 2020 21:41:20 GMT -5
Athena raised an eyebrow at the word "situation". That seemed like trouble. And as Alex continued it seemed that it was a situation indeed.
"Repressing magic..." was all Athena could mutter to herself as Alex explained what was happening. There was a distant look in her eyes as she thought about what that could mean. Questions raced through her mind.
Who did that to her? Why would someone be looking to suppress magic like that? How long had her magic been suppressed like that? It was no way to live. Even though Athena cursed her own abilities she still couldn't imagine a life without them. It was a part of her and her choice whether to use them or not. Mostly...
When Dante raised his voice and snapped his book closed sharply, Athena fully looked at him this time. He was taking this seriously wasn't he? He also didn't trust her, which in all fairness, was valid. She was self-aware of how it looked, her just bargaining in and demanding what they were doing. He was being cautious where Alex wasn't.
Good to know.
"Relax, stick," she huffed. Rolling her eyes she leaned back in her hip and crossed her arms over her chest. He really was uptight, wasn't he? She could help but smile as she was reminded of home. The advisors were stern then too weren't they?
She glanced in his direction and raised her eyebrows. "I wasn't going to ask to see her anyway. I don't care much for dungeons. And I would never betray Alex like that," she explained reaching up and pressing the prince's cheek to her's. She grinned as she help him there and chuckled gently. "I love this fool."
Letting him go, she swiped the book from his hands and started turning through the pages looking for what they had mentioned. "Besides, no one is in need of a mercenary right now and, as stated earlier, I'm bored and need something to do," she explained again.
"Won't get too much in the way I promise," She finished raising a hand and crossing and X over her heart. In reality, her promise usually meant jackshit. But, she'd keep this one for the moment.
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Post by Ζ€Ξ±ΖΖΞ±Ρ β§ on Dec 17, 2020 2:29:02 GMT -5
Alex sighed sharply when Dante started freaking out about the idea of him sharing the details of the situation with Athena. Dante really could be irritating sometimes, and Alex didnβt understand why he felt the need to be like that either.
βDante, I havenβt spread everything, I didnβt even mention the girlβs name or her faction, which is the very definition of βanonymousβ as you saidβ Alex pointed out βand more importantly, I trust Athena with my life and Iβm telling you sheβs safe and trustworthy. The problem here isnβt Athena, itβs you not trusting me.β
Not trusting him, just like everybody else in this kingdom didnβt trust him. Nobody seemed to take him seriously or believe he was worth listening to. Nobody seemed to think he could be trusted at all, mainly because of his Levinian blood. Certainly nobody ever thought he could every be suited for the throne, and thankfully Alex had an older brother. It suited Alex just fine anyway, because he didnβt want the throne. It did hurt though, that nobody trusted him.
Alex smiled when Athena reached up and pressed her cheek to his, just a light twitch of the lips. Athena was such a good friend to him. She was the only one who seemed to trust him, and didnβt seem to care about all the other stuff. The Levina stuff, for example. She didnβt ask too many questions, and Alex offered her the same courtesy in return. Over time heβd gotten to know her well enough to know what a good person she was. He didnβt need to know every detail of her life history to know that, he could see it in the things sheβd done in the time heβd known her.
βAnd I love you too, asshole,β he murmured affectionately
Who cared if Dante was watching and would probably tease Alex for caring about someone for once in his life? He didnβt care, and Alex wasnβt going to hide his friendship with Athena from Dante at this point.
He rolled his eyes and laughed though, when Athena swiped the book; the prince simply reached for another and started to search among those pages instead.
When she said she was a mercenary, Alex looked up to Dante.
βOh, yeah, thatβs her job,β Alex added βAnd sheβs a pretty damn good one from what I hear, itβs another reason I thought she might be able to help. Just donβt say anything judgy about it, okay?β
Alex wasnβt being rude, he just knew what Dante was like. He didnβt want the man to have any comments to make about the fact that Athena was a mercenary. Or questions about how Alex had even met a mercenary in the first place.
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Demisexual
Leo
Surviving off Thai tea and Miguel O'hara
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Post by Leo on Dec 17, 2020 3:31:37 GMT -5
Atlas opened one eye when Ress got closer and made herself known. When she sat down next to him he shifted so he was sitting up more and closed his eyes again. Pretending to be going back to sleep but still aware of his surroundings as usual.
He knew she was here to give him another assignment. Ress never just came to him to sit and talk. Maybe once or twice in the few years, they had known each other but never often. This was no different.
As she explained what the Queen was asking of them Atlas scoffed in a disgusted manner and his brow furrowed. "That woman," he hissed angrily, "never lets us rest, does she? Always has to have her tools working while she does nothing."
He felt no love for the Rajani Queen. Nor her advisor dogs who begged at her feet and ordered him around all the same. She was not his original ruler and this was not the kingdom he was from anyway, so the fact that he had even a fraction of loyalty to her and the court was amazing. She was a means to an end just as he was to her.
Taking the parchment from the girl next to him, Atlas unfurled it and read the contents. The words on the paper matched exactly the words that Ress was relaying to him. Coronation. Queen. Wisteria.
"Queen hm?" Atlas muttered to himself as he rolled the paper back up. Something seemed to click in his mind just then and his tired eyes glanced to Ress asking for confirmation in his next words. "Isn't she a young thing? Somewhat younger than you, yes?"
A sigh escaped his lips as he fully sat up and ran a hand through his hair. Pulling at the tangles and knots that happened while he found a few moments of sleep the night before. A troubled look crossed his face as he fully registered just how young kids were getting involved in adult affairs.
"A shame. Having to rule a kingdom that young..."
After a moment of silence, Atlas sighed heavily and started getting up from the ground. He dusted himself off and plucked twigs and leaves from his clothing. "Fine. Let's go then. I know you want to go right now since it'll take so long to get there," Atlas commented rolling his eyes and offering the girl a hand. "Otherwise, you'll pester me about it all day and I'll never be able to sleep."
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Post by πππππ π¨ on Dec 17, 2020 12:35:47 GMT -5
The advisor scanned his eyes over some more ancient text, deciding perhaps to bring it to Minke. She might have fun deciphering the text, more than he would trying to.
He had no idea how he got hooked up into some ordeal with a bunch of magic users, but most likely this friend of Alex's may be like Dante. Magic-less.
When Athena addressed him, he made the mistake of looking up at the two cuddling their faces together. That caused him to feel an annoying pit in his chest, though he fixed on a more judgmental look. A scoff escaped him, fixing Athena with a look, "You could do a lot better than him," he commented. A tease, obviously, but he wasn't about to insult the new scary lady who could probably kill him really quickly.
Did the fact that this woman was a mercenary scare him? Yeah. It did. It really did, and he took an inhale of breath, drumming his fingers over his book in that classic small nervous habit of his. He channeled it into small movements, not as noticeable. He was still more bothered about Alex's...what was this girl, a mistress? Whatever.
"Kind of suspicious," he pointed out, pointedly glaring at Alex, "That there's a mercenary here, after you said you would dispatch of the king." Did he really think they were linked? Not really, but any chance to push at Alex was worth it. Alex was a thorn in his side. But regardless, the younger man brought up the moment after he awoke from his fainting spell.
Returning his eyes to Athena, he regarded her carefully, "So, how long have you known the prince? And how long has he been courting you?"
Because yeah, that's exactly what this looked like to him. He wasn't the affectionate type, and he surely wasn't around people enough to see smooshing your faces together as some friendly gesture. And he had never seen Alex do that with anyone else.
The pristine walls around him seemed to taunt him slightly, pure and untainted and clean, and the exact opposite of this entire situation. He could almost feel the filth of magic staining his hands, or the feel of rope circling around his neck, pages of archaic text burning along with the tug. Though thinking of what they'd do to Alex was much worse. Despite the annoyance it brought, maybe this Athena character could do some good for Alex.
The fear seared through his heart. War, anarchy, and he was aiding in it. His eyes moved to a clock on a nearby wall, he didn't have any duties for a while. He could spare time to continue his studies, in the room separate from prying eyes.
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Post by πππππ π¨ on Dec 17, 2020 12:46:57 GMT -5
Ress offered up a grin sheepishly, but it fell at Atlas' scoff at the Queen. Her gaze set more stony, a flicker of fear in her eyes as she looked around quickly, "She just wants us to be hardworking," she defended, meekly. She never liked to speak wrong of the queen, especially in the Kingdom.
She'd never say why.
Eyes scanning him as he read their orders, she nodded her affirmation at his words. His orders were likely a bit different than hers, understandably so, "She is, she's just 17-years-old if I remember correctly."
She smiled softly, at perhaps her only real acquaintance, dark eyes flickering to her horse, "It is a shame," she commented, a frown of sympathy thrown on her face temporarily, "But you have to sacrifice a lot for a kingdom," the words were softer, meeting his eyes. The words had a weight to them, as if she wasn't just addressing Adrestia Queen of Wisteria any longer.
The smile was back when he agreed to leave then, she practically ran over to her own horse, grabbing a small bag and stepping back, presenting a treat to her friend. "Since you've been out sleeping, I felt it only fair to bring you something to eat before the journey," she commented, handing it off.
Then stepping back, boarding her horse. A few trots forward, easily taking the lead. A long journey this would be, indeed. But at least it was a break from the Queen.
"So, find anything interesting last night?" She questioned, glancing at him. He had his hunts, but sometimes he seemed so emotionally separated. She understood the weight of the actions the queen pressed onto them. They hurt, suffocated even, stripped away morality.
Sometimes talking about it helped.
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Post by πππππ π¨ on Dec 17, 2020 18:23:33 GMT -5
Korinna flapped her wings an additional time, her pink tinted brown eyes narrowed at Declan. She seemed to become shocked for a moment, body seeming to freeze up.
Despite the fact that it didn't cause any noise, the girl crashed into a tree, though it didn't effect the tree any, it seemed. She she floundered on the forest floor for a moment, bringing one of her wings up to essentially act as a mask to the sunlight, though her narrowed eyes caught that the sun was sinking, not rising.
"The days run together, I guess," She responded, quick to get back up. A feeling of sadness sunk into her heart, the passage of time didn't really bother her now. The days really did run together, and she didn't have much purpose in picking apart day or night now that she had no use for a circadian clock.
At the question about Puck, she fluttered those bird-like wings of her, glancing back down the path at their out of breath friend. She offered a smile, though it fell. Declan was still insistent that they weren't real. She turned to glance at him with hurt eyes, but nodded her head once.
"As you wish, Declan." Closing her eyes, she willed her body to become invisible to the boy. After it was done, she waited for Puck. They couldn't get too far from Declan as it was, or the bond would pull them closer. That cursed object that Declan had that trapped their souls.
She waited for a few moments, folding in her wings. That was only fair, for Puck.
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