ββΠΎΟ
Ι΄α΄ α΄α΄
α΄Ιͺα΄α΄α΄Ι΄α΄α΄ α΄xα΄α΄α΄α΄ α΄Ι΄ α΄α΄Κα΄Κ Κα΄sΙͺΙ΄α΄ss
|
Post by ββΠΎΟ on Apr 6, 2021 1:04:38 GMT -5
Aever smiled pleasantly as the girl rambled about the book. He nodded in encouragement at her thoughts, though his own her less sophisticated. βFavorite? Ummβ¦β he racked his brain, trying to think of something clever to say. Her ideas had been so eloquent, as if sheβd spent actual time thinking of how she would analyze the book to another person. Then he experienced a moment of panic as he realized he couldnβt remember the name of any poem, let alone one from that book. His dark eyes narrowed, searching the floor as if the answer would be scrawled in the marble. You must seem like such a dumb soldier who only pretends to know how to read, was all he could think. She probably thinks youβre lying. βI liked the one about the whale,β he offered. βI thought it was a good metaphor for...loneliness.β God thatβs depressing. Nailed it.
βAnyway, want to grab a drink?β He had been abstaining from alcohol thus far, but now he decided he should get drunk immediately. The whole charm the opposition thing was not his greatest strength. And if he was going to embarrass himself while sober, he might as well get too drunk to remember any of it. He gladly accepted her offer to check out the gardens.
Oddly, a grain of comfort came in the form of a memory that drifted into his brain unprompted. It was of his father a few months ago, from a conversation they had after the engagement was announced. Aever was angry at the time. He remembered storming out of the family meeting and sitting on the balcony which looked over the seas of Nerio. Aever recalled the blinding light of the sun reflecting off the waves. Felix came to join him, and they were silent for some time. At last, his father said simply, βEveryone wants to marry for love. But thatβs one luxury not afforded to princes. Think of it as an act of love for your family and for our cause.β
Aever replayed this moment as he followed behind the girl. There were flickers of commotion all around the party, with some people speaking in voices both raised and whispered. He pulled at the collar of his jacket, loosening the top buttons.
They walked by the drinks table Aever picked up two of the glasses before gesturing for her to lead the way to the gardens. That was something he genuinely looked forward to. Fresh air and a bit of quiet were enticing enough, but he was intrigued by the stories heβd heard about the palace grounds.
As they made their way out of the ballroom, he felt the muscles in his back relax and he resisted the urge to stretch. A marble colonnade was all that separated the party from the gardens, and he was immediately greeted by the fragrance of wet grass and flowers. It was not quite the scent of home, but it was pleasant nonetheless. He mindlessly looked up at the sky, searching for the moon, then he suppressed a smile. Of course he couldn't find the moon. They were on it.
He handed one of the drinks to the girl. She still hadnβt told him her name. He supposed it was an innocent mistake.
βSo you work for the queen?β he asked, returning to their previous conversation. He felt more at ease now that he was no longer in the ballroom, where at any moment he felt like his future in-laws was going to stroll up and play illusionist tricks on him. βWhat does that mean? Are you some kind ofβ¦lady in waiting?β This is nice, he thought to himself. Thereβs no pressure when youβre talking to someone youβll probably never see again in your life.
|
|
|
|
|
|
Post by Gold on Apr 6, 2021 8:14:44 GMT -5
Watching this with interest -w-
Iβm also taken with the idea of making a character that was one of the original Pioneers, dormant in a cyborg body when the world eaters plot picks up more.)
|
|
ββΠΎΟ
Ι΄α΄ α΄α΄
α΄Ιͺα΄α΄α΄Ι΄α΄α΄ α΄xα΄α΄α΄α΄ α΄Ι΄ α΄α΄Κα΄Κ Κα΄sΙͺΙ΄α΄ss
|
Post by ββΠΎΟ on Apr 6, 2021 12:09:28 GMT -5
Watching this with interest -w- Iβm also taken with the idea of making a character that was one of the original Pioneers, dormant in a cyborg body when the world eaters plot picks up more.)
[ And that's a sick idea. I can definitely see us introducing some of the Pioneers down the line. Maybe they either have amnesia because they've been in a sort of hibernation or they are concealing their identities from everyone else? Very interesting... ] |
|
ββΠΎΟ
Ι΄α΄ α΄α΄
α΄Ιͺα΄α΄α΄Ι΄α΄α΄ α΄xα΄α΄α΄α΄ α΄Ι΄ α΄α΄Κα΄Κ Κα΄sΙͺΙ΄α΄ss
|
Post by ββΠΎΟ on Apr 6, 2021 16:14:23 GMT -5
Devarahβs pulse jumped, and her woes were instantly forgotten, including her anger at her mother. Chrysophon helped her to her feet, and she didnβt bother fiddling with the buckles of her shoes. Without seeking further information from their grandfather, the twins made their way quickly back to the ballroom. They did not run, to avoid causing a panic, but Dev could feel curious eyes on them as they wove through the partygoers. Her bare toes were nearly stepped on a few times as people failed to move out of the way.
But eventually they made it to the royal table, and Dev could see her mother speaking in a hushed voice to a messenger of some kind. The ladies in waiting, dancers, and advisors were agitated, and they bobbed their heads to see what was happening as the twins rushed over to meet them.
βMother, we need to talk,β Chrys started. Ceries was already pushing back her chair. Before he was finished speaking, she was on her feet. She knew something, it was clear from the iciness in her eyes. βGrandfather Mors told us something important.β Devarah was putting the pieces together now. Grandfather Mors must have heard something alarming from Ceries' mind.
Devarah eyed the messenger. He was bearing the Illusionist badge, but she had never laid eyes on him before. That typically meant he was stationed somewhere else in the solar system. His expression was nervous, young eyes widening as the queen left her seat. He remained glued to his spot, seemingly unsure of how to act next. One of the aristocrats tried to ask him a question, but he declined to answer.
Ceries shepherded both Chrysophon and Devarah away from the table, out of earshot from any of the guests. Her hand was cold on her daughterβs arm, and Dev could see an unsettling calm on her face as she stated, βInvictus is under attack by the world eaters. We just received word from the outpost.β
βWhat?β hissed Devarah. βWhat does that mean? Has anyone died? The world eaters havenβt been seen for y-β
βYears, yes,β interrupted Ceries. Her typically smooth face showed sudden signs of aging. There were bags under her eyes, and her skin seemed colorless. βYou canβt tell anyone else at the party. We neednβt cause a panic.β
Devarahβs mind was reeling. None of it made sense. The world eaters were last seen on Salus, not Invictus, and they were presumed extinct or gone after the former planet was destroyed. If they were on Invictus, there was no limit to the damage they could cause. It was the second most populous place in the solar system, and the source of wealth for most of it. She pictured it all crumbling into dust, swallowed by the choking cloud of the world eaters that was described in all the history books. Selfishly she thought of the family as well. Their own mines, with thousands of workers, were based on Invictus. It was what paid for the palace they stood in, the lush gardens that surrounded them. Her heart was pounding in her ears.
βWhat are we going to do?β she asked. She looked between Chrysophon and her mother, searching for an answer in their eyes. Only then did she notice that the ballroom was growing quieter. For all she knew, the news was already spreading like wildfire around the room. Did people here have family on Invictus? Homes? Something needed to be done, but Devarah didnβt know what. βSend us,β she volunteered without second thought. βWe can try to stop them. Someone must.β
|
|
ββΠΎΟ
Ι΄α΄ α΄α΄
α΄Ιͺα΄α΄α΄Ι΄α΄α΄ α΄xα΄α΄α΄α΄ α΄Ι΄ α΄α΄Κα΄Κ Κα΄sΙͺΙ΄α΄ss
|
Post by ββΠΎΟ on Apr 6, 2021 16:15:06 GMT -5
[ I kept it relatively short so Chrys can help gameplan, Starchaser >:3 ]
|
|
|
|
Post by willowflower on Apr 6, 2021 17:01:10 GMT -5
((the law of equivalent exchange
yes, exactly! also i love the idea of an original pioneer character, thatβd be so neat
aever: wow this is nice ^.^ iβll prob never see this lady who conveniently forgot to tell me her name after this
junai: soon i will face the consequences of my sins ;.;
i'll be heading to a friend's, so i'll write up embere's and new character lilywalker's posts later tonight!))
β§ΰΌΊβ₯ΰΌ»βγJ U N A IγβΰΌΊβ₯ΰΌ»β§ Junaiβs face was still alight with excitement. βStarwhaleβs Lament? I really like that one too! Itβs actually super cool you mentioned loneliness, because did you know that there is in fact a type of star whale that roams the galaxies that has a wholly unique call at 52 hertz? The only one of its kind! A pitch no other star whale can hear!β
Junai gabbed with enthusiasm all the way to the garden, accepting the drink Aever handed to her. βThey call it the loneliest whale in the galaxy. Can you imagine? Calling out to the stars, only for no one to hear you, and no one to call back.β
She looked up at the sky as Aever did in solemn contemplation. In that brief moment, she felt relief - talking to him came easier than most. Then again, maybe it was because he brought up the one thing that would bring Junai out of her shell. Maybe it was because he listened.
βOh! Yes! My work. For the queen,β she said, silently groaning at herself. Her mind quickly borrowed from the stories of the actual ladies who waited at her motherβs side, and spun a small little tale of her own. βYes, thatβs right. Iβm one of her ladies in waiting, though my job is mostly secretarial. I take care of incoming and outgoing messages, sort files, deliver the right messages to the queen, all that administrative sort of stuff.β The corner of Junaiβs mouth twitched upwards in a half-smile. βIβm a bit of a scribe, as it were.β
Junai let out a small puff of air as she rolled along the elegantly lined stone path through the garden, the cool air brushing over her heated face. She kinda wished she had a shawl or something to hide her shoulders, but then again the softer light of the moon felt less judgemental that the lights of the ballroom. βTo be honest, this isnβt exactly my type of gathering - or outfit, really - but my, um, queen likes to dress us all up for the occasion.β
She looked over at Aever curiously. βSo, um. Forgive me, but. Are you one of the princes getting married into the Illusionist family?β Junai looked back down at her hands. βHow do youβ¦ feel about that? Iβd be all conflicted about it.β
Junai absent-mindedly rubbed at her bare arms, as the cool night air was starting to settle into her skin.
|
|
|
|
Post by willowflower on Apr 6, 2021 19:07:07 GMT -5
((turned out i can write at my friend's place lol
alrighty setting off the alanta & gran georgina convo!))
ｑβΊΛ*ο½₯ΰΌβΎγE M B E R Eγβ½ΰΌο½₯*ΛβΊο½‘ Embere snorted from where he was crouching behind Alanta. βIβm not afraid, I just have a healthy dose of caution,β Embere said. βVery different.β He glared around Alanta. βThat lady gives me very bad vibes. Besides, the guards are standing. Right here.β
βThe guards canβt rightly throw you out if I command otherwise,β Alanta said.
βWhich is why Iβm sticking with you,β Embere said, straightening up. He made a startled noise when Alanta abruptly dragged him back down to whisper in his ear. The mention of a dragon made his blood run cold and his brain go holy cow yes dragon cool yes. Honestly, Alanta was kind of right when she remarked today was the most fun heβs had (at the time he was too busy admiring the food platters to give anything more than a βYes, a jolly good timeβ and a thumbs up). Like, itβs wasnβt like Embere never had fun as a mechanic for the Vanisher family. He found ways to entertain himself, and it wasnβt like he lacked passion for his work. But it wasnβt every day he got to crash a fancy party and stuff his face with flavors of the rich. Not the most epic adventure, but it was definitely a nice change of pace.
Then again, finding a dragon in the Illusionistβs garden? Now that sure would be far more interesting of an adventure.
Embere reluctantly let Alanta guide him away from the table (βI will come back, my sweets,β he whispered to the literal sweets awaiting on the tabletop). The grandmother had finished shaking hands with the now shaken guard, who looked near close to tears, and was now drifting off back into the gardens, hands clasped neatly behind her back.
He and Alanta slipped onto the darkened paths of the glorious garden. Embere kept an eye out for the magnificent creatures heβs heard wandered these trees. He could hear the voices of a couple others drifting through the air, and instinctively inched away from them. He almost got himself distracted by the glowing petals of a particularly pretty flower, but then he heard the sound of Gran Georginaβs voice, far too close for comfort.
βI can hear you sneaking through the shadows, my children. Why donβt you come out into the light?β
|
|
|
|
Post by Starchaser on Apr 6, 2021 21:28:45 GMT -5
{ hello! sorry for not responding yet, but I spent the day moving and only really just got finished settling in. well, mostly settled in. i am pretty tired, so i donβt know if iβll get a response up tonight, but I might be able to tomorrow. sorry for the delay! }
|
|
|
|
|
|
Post by Starchaser on Apr 8, 2021 19:58:33 GMT -5
{ Alright, I'm finally sitting down to attempt writing something! I say attempt because I'm not sure I'm going to have enough time, but we'll see. Sorry again for the wait, things should settle down again in a few days. }
|
|
|
|
Post by πΎππππππππ on Apr 8, 2021 21:05:41 GMT -5
( no worries (: it happens )
|
|
|
|
Post by Starchaser on Apr 8, 2021 21:52:17 GMT -5
{ ββΠΎΟ Finally wrote a semi-decently-sized post :') Sorry again for the wait! Hopefully I added enough for you to work with. And Alanta is up next.
I thought your ideas for who to send where made perfectly good sense, I was just thinking about which characters needed more interaction. I don't really care where my characters go too much either, I was planning on making one or two more as well. Alanta will definitely go to Salus though, so I was thinking of sending Chrys along to Invictus with Devarah.
Ooh, the idea of one of the characters coming up with that theory is super neat. As you mentioned, we don't have to decide right now, since we very well might come up with more ideas later on. It would be be neat and probably work out well if our characters sort of came to conclusions as we did. Perhaps one of the groups on Salus or Invictus notices the fungi and starts making the connections. Or maybe the two groups each have different information and come up with that idea after exchanging what they learned.
I like the possibilities of the world eaters being connected to the Illusionist and Vanishers, and perhaps Conductors as a whole. It could be that the families and world eaters have similar origins. Maybe the fungi thing is what can manipulate dark matter and somehow is tied to the world eaters and conductors. We definitely don't need to set anything in stone yet, I say we can just kind of brainstorm as we go c: }
Chrysophon stood by apprehensively as the Queen spoke rapidly to the messenger; her tone was calm and quiet, but held a distinct severity to it that made Chrys nervous. Based on her serious demeanor and the chilliness in her eyes, Ceries already knew what was happening. Of course, Chrys thought, Grandfather Mors must have learned about Invictus from her.
Ceries was already ushering the twins away from the table before the words had barely left Chrys's mouth. He glanced back towards the table as they left, frowning as the others huddled in to whisper amongst themselves. Most of the party was carrying on, blissfully unaware of the trouble brewing on another planet. Chyrsophon did not recognize the messenger his mother had been speaking too, which must have meant he'd come from somewhere else in the solar system, and recently at that.
Though he'd heard Grandfather Mors's warning too, Chrys certainly wasn't expecting the next words that Ceries spoke. Something didn't just happen on Invictus, it was under attack. Under attack by the world eaters, creatures thought long gone in their solar system. Quite possibly the worst possible threat; Chrys had heard first-hand of the destruction they caused, decimating Salus and rendering it inhospitable. Oh, he had shuddered at the stories the scarce survivors told. Salus hadn't been heavily populated, but people had lost their lives and the resources the planet held had been utilized around the solar system. Its loss had been sorely felt, but Invictus's would be far worse.
Invictus not only housed more people, but the mines so many fought over. So many owed their wealth, livelihood, and materials to those minesβincluding his own family. Chrys listened as Dev and their mother discussed what was happening, but it was growing difficult for him to form coherent thoughts. He felt distantly nauseous, but forced the look of shock from his face.
"Yes," he agreed as soon as he found his voice again. Chrys lifted his head, glancing between his mother and sister, before meeting Ceries's eyes resolutely, giving a minute nod. "Send us so we can figure out a way to stop this." Was there a way to stop the world eaters? Chrys really couldn't say for certain. He'd never read of anything like that, any secret weakness the creatures had, or some magical repellant. But they had to try. They had to try something, anything, or the entire solar system could very well be destroyed. Arranged marriages would be the least of their worries then.
Chrys studied the crowds around them, realizing more and more of the guests were looking confused and worried. The sounds of merriment were rapidly being replaced with anxious murmuring. It seemed that, despite their best efforts, word was getting around. Chrys's brow furrowed as he took in the scene, thoughts whirling as he tried to deduce what should be done.
Admittedly, Chrys had never been the best with deciding how to handle crises, but he had to figure something out. Looking back to his mother, Chrys remarked grimly, "Sooner rather than later." If the attack had been anything like the world eaters' previous attempts, Invictus might not have much time, particularly not if word was already spreading. "Do they know the source of the attack? Where the world eaters first started attacking Invictus?" he asked in a low voice. "We may be able to pinpoint where they're coming from now. And why. If we could even just learn the patterns of their attacks or something..." Chrys trailed off uncertainly. What he knew of the world eaters came from a history he mostly wasn't around for. Salus was the most recent attack, and even then, there simply weren't many survivors to tell that tale. What had been relayed was largely facts mixed with myth borne out of fear and confusion. The world eaters were nearly as mysterious as anything else in the vastness of space.
"We should probably evacuate the areas closest to their attack. Try to contain them somehow," Chrys continued, though he didn't have the faintest idea how to accomplish any of this. He could think of what should be done all he wanted, but it didn't change the fact that portal-hopping wolves were difficult to deal with. What they really needed was a solid plan, and that wasn't something they'd be able to formulate until they learned more about what was happening. "Dev is right, we have to try something. I'm not sure what that is yet, but we can't wait around until we know. Send us so we can figure out how to fix this."
|
|
|
|
Post by willowflower on Apr 9, 2021 0:10:51 GMT -5
(( And hereβs lilywalker! sheβs open for interaction c: ))
»»ββ L I L Y W A L K E R ββ««
Lilywalker was standing stiff at attention by the garden door, grip firm on her electric spear. Not even the gentle music had her relaxing her stance. Not even the delicious platters of food directly to her right made her resolve waver. Nope. Not a bit. Her eyes did not dart over towards the cherry pastries, the delicate mooncakes, the buttery shine of the jam-filled danishes. She most certainly didnβt breathe a sigh of relief when her fellow guard came to relieve her onto her lunch break.
With a click, the joints holding her spear in one solid form loosened, and Lilywalker swiftly folded it up to neatly tuck into the holster belted to her leg. Then she made her swift walk over to the refreshmentβs table.
It truly was regrettable she couldnβt take a sip of the delightfully violet and red drinks practically gushing from their crystalline pitchers and glasses.
Even then, Lilywalker made sure she kept a respectable posture and stance, eyes scanning the ballroom for any signs of trouble. Of course, the aura of the place was impeccable, all signs pointing to a peaceful, optimistic event that will end with no trouble. Really, she was just there for the presentation. Then again, if there was any drunken stumble, Lilywalker will manifest within a moment to politely whisk away their carriage keys.
She had her eye on a poorly-dressed cyborg, but before she could make any kind of investigation, a small commotion snatched away her attention. The queen - sheβs been disturbed. Bad news? As Lilywalker made her way towards the front (passing her fellow guard, who seemed shaken up for some reason), she could hear whispers and murmurs of worried guests. At once her guard was brought up, her hand drawn towards her holster as she tried to make her way to the queenβs side.
βExcuse me,β she said in a low, gruff voice to the blockade of people before her.
|
|
|
|
Post by Starchaser on Apr 9, 2021 0:23:11 GMT -5
{ willowflower πΎππππππππ Not my best work, but at least there's something now. }
Alanta shot Tieran a dark glare, though mischief shone in the amber depths of her eyes. "Rebellion isn't always a bad thing," she said evenly. "Though I think you're judging me a bit harshly. Sometimes things need a little shaking up." She took another sip of her drink, looking almost thoughtful, but didn't press the subject at all. There was yet more of her honor to defend. Tieran, however, didn't seem all that willing to engage, so Alanta left it alone, silently declaring herself winner of their faux arguments. She'd start something more up later.
The conversation turned to other topics, such as the innerworkings of mechanical creatures, and Alanta allowed herself to become temporarily invested in the topic, though it didn't last long. Most of the time, more technical aspects of subjects were lost on Alanta. She didn't worry so much with the how of things, or the why, as long as they worked, but occasionally she would find herself to drawn to certain subjects. Particularly when they might benefit her in the future.
"Oh well," Alanta shrugged as Tieran immediately shot down her idea. She decided to remain optimistic. "There are plenty of other shiny things for them to get distracted by. Like jewelry," she suggested with a grin, The Illusionists and their aristocratic company seemed quite fond of accessorizing with any manner of fancy trinkets. "At the very least, nobody would be very pleased about horses being in their nice palace. Horses would still wreak havoc in a place like this, by sheer virtue of being in the way," she reasoned.
If Tieran intended to respond, she never got the chance. The two Illusionist royals appeared to be in quite the rush, though they must have been trying to be discreet. Alanta's sister was clearly interested in what was happening, but Alanta herself had a feeling they'd be hearing about it before too long. Already, she could see whispers being exchanged among the Queen's little group. Either it would end up being blown out of proportion and completely unworthy of everyone's time, or they'd inevitably have to deal with it later on. Alanta wasn't going to kickstart things if it were the latter. She'd certainly hear all about it later, whenever her parents or siblings got sent off on actual missions while she was expected to sit at home.
It was Embere's comment that really got Alanta's attention, though she wasn't as perturbed by the old woman's presence as he was. "Healthy, sure," Alanta scoffed, rolling her eyes. Still, she supposed the cyborg had some point. It was rather odd that some seemingly ordinary granny was breaking into the royal family's villa. It made Alanta curious, though the thought of finding out what secrets might lie in the Illusionists' garden was a bit more exciting. Seeing as the royals were currently distracted, it really would be the perfect time. "We should see what she's up to as well."
Luckily, Alanta didn't have to choose. The elderly woman was headed for that direction, leaving the guard she'd been speaking with looking rather agitated. Now that was certainly interesting. She made a mental note to keep an eye on this strange old lady.
"Great, let's go then," Alanta replied, setting out towards the garden and pulling Embere after her without a word of farewell to Tieran.
The Illusionist gardens were even more exquisite than their palace, and the bar had already been set pretty high. Though it was dark outside, the stone path was lined with lanterns, and glowing plants were scattered about. Alanta had never seen quite so many plants in all her life. Nerio didn't have much to see in terms of plant life, at least not of the non-aquatic variety. She very nearly found herself getting lost in the wonders around them, before having to remind herself what they'd gone out there for.
Alanta hadn't yet spotted any potential dragon hiding-spots, but the Illusionists' gardens were huge. She was certain they were bound to find something eventually. A voice calling out from nearby stopped the pair in their tracks, however. Of course, there were other people wandering the gardens, but most of them were keeping to themselves. Alanta could guess who the voice belonged to without looking, and she was admittedly somewhat surprised that an old woman would be so good at going unnoticed. But she wouldn't be intimidated by one like her newest partner in crime.
Without missing a beat, Alanta swatted at Embere's arm. "We were sneaking? Why in the stars didn't you tell me?" she demanded indignantly, though her gaze was playful. She stepped over to where the voice had drifted from and called out, "That must be quite the reassurance." Alanta paused just as they reached the old woman, glancing her over with slight curiosity. "Hearing is one of the senses that first declines with age," she elaborated. "Granted, we weren't really sneaking. Or not quite, anyways. We were searching for something."
Alanta tilted her head as she observed the old woman. She didn't seem the type to be invited to this sort of thing, and considering how she'd snuck in, she must have come for a reason, and Alanta didn't think it was just for the experience of being at a party. She settled on a direct approach. "My friend Embere here," she dragged the cyborg closer, "says he helped you break in. Even if you do mind my asking, why? What's your goal, shall we say?"
|
|
ββΠΎΟ
Ι΄α΄ α΄α΄
α΄Ιͺα΄α΄α΄Ι΄α΄α΄ α΄xα΄α΄α΄α΄ α΄Ι΄ α΄α΄Κα΄Κ Κα΄sΙͺΙ΄α΄ss
|
Post by ββΠΎΟ on Apr 9, 2021 17:39:35 GMT -5
[ Aight cool! I think it would be good to get a quick tally on which characters are going to Invictus and which are going to Salus? willowflower Starchaser πΎππππππππ ratvich . I'll update the front page with the two groups just so we're clear. I think I have a good idea but I just want to double check. I'm about to sit down and make another character as well. I think Devarah is going to Invictus for sure and likely Aever as well? And then my new character, a conductor/cyborg, will go to Salus. ]
[ edit: Oh and I'll write posts tonight after the nuggets game c: ]
|
|
|
|
Post by Starchaser on Apr 9, 2021 18:21:33 GMT -5
{ I'm nearly certain Alanta will go to Salus, while Chrys was going to go to Invictus. However, since it sounds like we already have a lot of characters heading to Invictus, I can make him go to Salus. I was thinking of making another character that may go to Invictus, just cause I wanted to visit both places, but I'm not too picky, whatever works best c: }
|
|
|
|
|
|
Post by Starchaser on Apr 9, 2021 18:45:33 GMT -5
{ Ohhh, you're right, I was just thinking of the royals. I'm fine with Chrys going to Invictus too, that was my plan for him anyways. I did think your original idea of Aever going to Salus made a lot of sense, but then I guess no Vanishers would be on Invictus. }
|
|
|
|
Post by willowflower on Apr 9, 2021 20:35:10 GMT -5
((yes, gran and ember to salus; junai and lilywalker to invictus ^.^))
|
|
ββΠΎΟ
Ι΄α΄ α΄α΄
α΄Ιͺα΄α΄α΄Ι΄α΄α΄ α΄xα΄α΄α΄α΄ α΄Ι΄ α΄α΄Κα΄Κ Κα΄sΙͺΙ΄α΄ss
|
Post by ββΠΎΟ on Apr 10, 2021 2:34:45 GMT -5
Aever sipped the champagne. It was effervescent and acidic, a welcome refreshment when paired with the oppressively dark night. How can the Illusionists live like this, with the sun never rising? he wondered. It certainly contributed to his own feeling that this party would never end, and that he was stuck in a strange eddy of time.
βPoor whale,β he responded to the girlβs anecdote. There was a hint of laughter behind the comment, but an unkind one. It was the most tragic thing he could possibly imagine, swimming through the emptiness of space and calling out to anyone who might hear. No matter how hard Aever had it, at least it wasnβt that bad. He searched for a positive spin on things, wanting to keep the conversation light. βShe still has hope, if she bothers to continue calling. She must think that her mate is soaring ahead of her, just out of earshot.β He smiled at the thought and took another sip.
He perched on the railing of the portico and listened attentively as the woman explained her work for the queen. A scribe? That sounded a bit boring, but he could see the appeal. It was certainly better than most professions. Then again, something told him Ceries was not an easy person to work for.
The young woman was quick to change the subject. Perhaps she disliked talking about herself. Or perhaps she was withholding information.
When she turned the attention back on him, his pleasant expression faded a bit. He tossed back the rest of his drink and sat the glass down lightly on the ground. Are you one of the princes getting married to the Illusionist family? How do you feel about that? She put him on the spot with those questions. In truth, he didnβt know how he felt about it. He had a million feelings at once. He could go on and on about how he was nervous what kind of person his future partner would be. And being human, he had superficial concerns about such things as compatibility, attraction, and intimacy. Then there were all of the political implications and the logistics of the ceremony and days following the wedding. He resolved to answer honestly. What was the harm in it anyway? He was still half convinced the party would never end and he would go on drinking champagne and the girl would never pick up a quill again and eventually the sun would turn into a supernova and incinerate them all.
βIt will all work out. Thatβs what I keep telling myself, anyway. Perhaps itβs foolish to say so, but no matter who I marry, sheβll be a person with her own desires and problems. So there will be challenges Iβm incapable of predicting. Ultimately itβs whatβs best for the family.β He shrugged as a gesture of resignation. βI donβt have much of a choice. And neither does she. So at least weβll have one thing in common.β
He was growing accustomed to the chill of the night. His ears picked up on the trilling of songbirds in the garden, but he did not turn his head to see them. He simply looked back at the girl whose name he still did not know. She looked cold. Her soft arms were folded around her middle, holding in warmth.
βAt least my voice isnβt 52 hertz,β he noted with a smile.
βAnywayβ¦β he trailed off, intending to change the subject again but unsure of where he was headed. βPerhaps Iβll see you around here after the wedding.β
|
|
|
|
|
|
ββΠΎΟ
Ι΄α΄ α΄α΄
α΄Ιͺα΄α΄α΄Ι΄α΄α΄ α΄xα΄α΄α΄α΄ α΄Ι΄ α΄α΄Κα΄Κ Κα΄sΙͺΙ΄α΄ss
|
Post by ββΠΎΟ on Apr 10, 2021 17:06:11 GMT -5
As her brother and her mother spoke in low voices, Devarah gestured for a servant girl named Keela. The young woman scampered over. She was dressed for the party in a glimmering gown of light blue, but its simple silhouette and her toned down styling betrayed her station. She was an ally of Devarahβs within the palace. They were friends despite their differences in rank, and Dev knew she could be trusted.
βGo and prepare my things for travel,β the princess instructed, clutching the young womanβs wrist in a familiar fashion. βIβll need practical clothing for about five days and boots I can run in. Next, find General Penya and tell him to prepare the familyβs ship,β Keelaβs eyes were wide with uncertainty but she nodded. βOh and find Junai and her servants, tell them whatβs happening.β Devarah knew these tasks would prove difficult, but they had no other choice than to get them done. She squeezed Keelaβs arm before releasing it, watching her dark hair swish as she disappeared into the crowd, then she turned her attention back to her family.
βAs far as we know, the event happened on one of the salt flats. There was considerable damage to one of the mines, but the number of casualties are unknown. The area is called Flatdune. We own a plant about twenty miles from there, and I have no idea if it is in danger as well,β Ceries explained. Her gaze hardened and she drew her twins closer, alternating between meeting their gazes as she said, βBe careful. Do not get close to those creatures. Simply assess the damage and allow our men to fight if need be. Do you understand?β
Devarah could sense the fear in her stare. There was protectiveness as well. Was she instructing them to let others die on their behalf? Devarah felt the urge to protest, but decided against it. She simply nodded after casting a meaningful glance toward Chrysophon. She had no intention of running from the danger. But she would never say as much to the queen, for fear the whole mission would be called off and soldiers sent instead. Perhaps it was overconfidence on her part, but she felt she and her siblings were better equipped to handle the situation than anyone else. What power did average men have against land devouring wolves?
Chrys suggested they should evacuate the area of the attack, and Devarah nodded in agreement. βLetβs send a skiff ahead of the main ship to give evacuation orders to anyone living within forty miles of Flatdune. By the time we arrive, only soldiers should remain.β
A part of her was surprised her mother was going along with the plan. Ceries was protective over her children. It was clear from her face that it was difficult for her. βI should go instead,β Ceries said once, softly, but Devarah shut it down with a decisive shake of the head.
βNo, you stay here and hold down the fort. The Vanishers will have questions about why their son in law is disappearing on such short notice, and the crown will be inundated by panicked nobles. Everyone needs you here, especially father. Heβs useless,β Her voice was firm, except in the last sentence, where some humor crept in. βChrys and I will be alright. Weβll come back as soon as we know more. I promise.β
|
|
|
|
Post by willowflower on Apr 10, 2021 22:23:28 GMT -5
((i'll be able to write something up tomorrow!
also, ive been thinking, what are your feelings about continuing the junai-pretends-she's-not-royalty gag all the way to invictus because im interested purely for the comedic potential))
|
|
|
|
|
|
Post by Starchaser on Apr 11, 2021 1:21:03 GMT -5
{ I'll get a response up tomorrow too! I would try tonight, but I do not think it would be very good. I'm also hoping to update my character forms and perhaps make another one or two. }
|
|
|
|
|
|
Post by Starchaser on Apr 11, 2021 17:52:24 GMT -5
{ ββΠΎΟ Here is Chrys again. It's a bit short, but hopefully that helps keep with the pacing. Sorry it doesn't contribute much, I know you're very open to ideas, but I still tend to be a bit wary of pushing the plot on too far without the creator, especially this early on. Don't want to trample any of your plans. I'm also having a bit of trouble writing right now, but my next post should be better.
I also made two new characters, although they're about the barest of bare right now. Evander is a Vanisher guard and I thought maybe he could go to Invictus with Aever. Valeria is from Augusta and joined with the cult.
πΎππππππππ Decided to give Tieran an opportunity to go looking for answers, if she wanted.}
Chrysophon listened intently as his mother explained the severity of the attack, dread growing with every passing moment. He was aware of words being exchanged between his sister and the servant girl in the background, bit his mind was millions of miles away, tapped on in Invictus and surrounded by swarms of world eaters. The reality of their situation seemed unable to sink in entirely. But the eldest prince would not be a coward. If Devarah's words were any indication, then she had already made up her mind about what she was going to do, giving orders like it was second-nature. And if Dev was going, so was Chrys. Union or not, his family was more important. Chrys wasn't going to sit around and wait to hear more news of destruction and death on Invictus, least of all when his own twin sister was going to be there.
Flatdune. Chrys thought the name sounded vaguely familiar, though he didn't know much about the place. If his family owned a plant nearby, that made sense. Even so, Chrys's knowledge about his family's mining business was limited at best. He knew of it, of course, and how important it was to the Illusionists, but not locations of every mine or their intricacies. Perhaps he should have been more informed about their endeavors given he would one day inherit them. He supposed he'd learn now.
As their mother gave her instructions, Chrys nodded along with the orders, but his gaze slid over to Devarah instead. Going all the way to Invictus just to see what damages the planet had incurred seemed pointless. Anyone could do a scouting mission; they needed people who could tackle the threat now. Chrys didn't know if their soldiers were equipped to handle such a problem, but he and his siblings could. When he met Dev's eye, he knew they shared the same sentiment. There's no way we're following that order. He gave a small nod. A silent pact. The twins wouldn't bother worrying their mother with their shared refusal to abide her request, but he knew that if trouble arose they certainly wouldn't think of running the other way.
The Queen's gaze was serious and intense, but Chrys forced himself to meet it at last. Asa child, he'd always cracked under his mother's scrutiny, but in that moment found his resolve bolstered as he examined the solicitude in her eyes. Chrys felt a sudden ache in his heart, confronted once more with everything he could lose, everything that was at stake. She was worried for their safety, he knew, but stopping the world eaters was too important. Their family and the solar system was too important. She'd have to let them go. "We understand," he promised, though carefully avoided voicing any agreement with her instructions. Even now Chrys found it difficult to lie to Ceries.
Chrys turned back to his twin as she picked up right where he had left off, carrying on his idea with far more certainty and thought than he could have. Good thing they'd be going together, Chrys didn't think he would have been much help on his own. He waited for argument from their mother, but the twins met little resistance on her end. "It's better for everyone if we're the ones to go. You can trust us," Chrys insisted, giving a faint smile. "There's too much here still to be done and you can't be everywhere."
"We should begin making preparations immediately," he added, already turning away before Ceries could change her mind and insist sending soldiers in their steed or something else that would turn out equally inane. Of course, Devarah had already taken care of the most integral tasks, but Chrys had a feeling there'd still be more to do before they could leave. The mission to Invictus would be no easy feat, especially not with nobles demanding answers and, right, the Vanishers. Chrys had almost forgotten about them with everything that had transpired, until Dev had brought up his new place in the other royal family. He elected to ignore any unpleasantness that dredged up. They had worse to deal with now.
In his haste out of the ballroom, Chrys nearly bumped into another guest, though he managed to slip by without any mishap. He started to apologize, but paused as he took in the woman. He recognized her. She wasn't just any guest, but a Vanisherβshe was dressed more finely than the rest of her family, but her dress still had an understated style to it, and the trademark grays of the Vanisher family. Princess Tieran of the Vanishers, if he remembered correctly. Chrys's betrothed. They hadn't spoken at all that night, really hadn't even made contact before. Was Chrysophon purposefully avoiding his partner-to-be? Oh, absolutely. At least now he had reason to. "Pardon," he breathed after just a bit too much silence, before quickly making his exit.
Invictus and the world eaters awaited.
|
|
|
|
