In this world, Magic is Everything. All people, all races, are granted with the power to perform mystical and magical feats via grimories, mystical tomes granted to each and every child on their 15th birthday. Those blessed by the mana can have their names written down in legend.
Shattered Grimoires is the work of the mind(s) of Ardere & Shattered Grimoire's staff. All characters and content are copyright their creators, and may not be replicated without their creators' permission. Black Clover is owned by Yuki Tabata and published by Viz Shonen Jump. All images belong to their original owners. The theme you are currently viewing was made by Eliza of ElizaCodes exclusively for Shattered Grimoires.
After her recent encounter with a handsome mercenary, the blue-haired elf had been alert for any news of him. To say that she was interested in the man was an understatement; however, she has yet to recognize what that interest actually meant. Whenever she even thought of the dark mage, her facial expressions would not obey her and her lips would always curl up to a small smile.
Hans Walker. It was an easy name to remember, with a face just as easy to look at. Although the man may be more on the introverted side, it only intrigued her. A secretive, mysterious man with unknown powers. Well, she had a glimpse of his power, but was sure that what she had witnessed that day in the forest was just skimming the surface. There was more to it, and she found herself curious to find out more about him.
Of course, she had been subtle about it, hanging around in places where discreet offers may be made and exchanged. However, she had not heard much of his whereabouts or recent activities. That is, until she heard off-handed questions about a certain Hans Walker. Immediately her elven ears had perked up, and while she lounged lazily with a glass of iced tea, her ears were anything but lazy. It was just a few inquiries here and there for the mercenary. Nothing specific. That could only mean one thing.
Drowning her drink in one gulp, Suna paid for it and headed out the shop. Bright eyes scanned the skies, its hue beautifully mirroring the heavens above. It was a gorgeous clear day in the Forsaken Region. Rare, if anything. She headed towards the local advertisement board, and sure enough, her guesses were confirmed.
Wanted: Blue Love Potion
And an address.
It was a plain, handwritten notice posted on the side of the board. It was small compared to the other garish and brightly colored advertisements around it. Easily missed, if one was not looking for it. She glanced around, and making sure nobody was around her, casually pulled the note down in one swift movement and walked down the street. Seeing an alley, she ducked in between the two houses and studied the piece of paper more closely.
A minute later, her blue and white clothed figure could be seen squeezing back out to the open street, sunlight reflecting off her long azure hair. She put a hand up to her forehead, shielding her eyes from the bright rays. Hmm, that place shouldn’t be too hard to find... As for the mage who has been on her mind recently...she was sure he would know the location of the lightning mage’s house. Or at least somewhere he would meet with the guy. After all, he must have gotten the photo-capturing device somehow from the wife - it was very likely it was at their house. Thus, she was not worried about him. If anything, he could already be at the man’s place already. Her steps picked up at the thought of that possibility. She was looking forward to seeing him again. A little bit too much, perhaps.
WC: 524 ⊹ TOTAL WC: 524 ⊹ MUSE: 10/10 ⊹ TAG: @morty2 NOTES: She's too excited to see him again lol
Hans' Stats - Power (19) Durability (22) Sensory (7) Stamina (12) Control (10)
~
Hans found himself in a rather shady looking run down bar. The people within were sketchy looking which wasn't a surprise given the location and establishment. Not as populated as the infamous Rogue's Refuge, a lot of unlawful individuals found themselves here including others who just wanted to get away from it all and drown their sorrows in booze. In Hans' case, this was one of the places he went to when looking for a job. Usually it's those who are up to no good who look for hired help...with the occasional tomato merchant. Still a job was a job for Hans, no matter how icky it was so long it was for the right price.
The dark mage both did and did not fit in with this crowd. They were all rough looking and dangerous, but they were also loud and crude. Hans kept to himself at a seat located in a corner where he could easily survey the area. At this point, Hans has already made a little name for himself among these lesser known people and they knew better not to mess with the guy...for the most part. Hans looked at his half full glass of mead, said to be the drink of vikings and something he has grown fond of. At first, the man's mind was on any potential clients coming through that door, but soon he found himself thinking of other things, or of someone to be more precise.
Suna Hoshi...the name of that blue elf Hans previously met. She was an interesting person. Gentle, strong willed, and...cute? The last thought surprised Hans, causing him to look up as if someone were speaking to him. He then looked around and took another gulp of his drink, sighing afterwards. The man shook his head at the strange thoughts intruding his mind. He couldn't get the woman's face from out of his head. It was just like his thoughts about his abusive father, and witnessing the death of his mother except this time it wasn't a haunting feeling but rather a certain...warmth? This was a new experience for the merc, finding it both confusing and distracting to the point of not realizing the familiar man covered in a hood that was now standing in front of his table. "H-Hans?" it wasn't until the guy spoke that the dark mage quickly looked up, gasping a little at the realization. "Wait, you're..." before he could finish the guy chimed in. "Yeah it's me, that lightning mage. My name's Simon by the way." the guy added. It was all coming back to Hans now. This was that mage the merc was tasked at tailing...the one who was manipulated by Vera. Hans wasn't expecting to see him so soon, but it didn't seem like he was here to catch up. From the look of the guy's attire and expression, Simon seemed to be worried, and trying to conceal himself.
"I need your assistance, but can we discuss this back at my home? You should know where that is right?" Simon requested, Hans at first still quiet as he was trying to take this in. It was so sudden and unsuspected. "Don't worry, you'll get paid. You said you're a mercenary right?" the man added, believing that he needed to give the dark mage a bit of an incentive. "Right..." Hans said with a nod, causing Simon to nod as well in agreement before starting to make his way out of the bar. Hans watched him for a second before finishing the rest of his drink. He then placed the glass back on the table and got up, following Simon shortly after, silently wondering what this was about all of a sudden. What Simon failed to tell Hans is that he also has contacted the very elf that has sneaked her way into his mind...
~
wc - 647
Last Edit: Jun 14, 2020 18:10:03 GMT -5 by Deleted
For this attack spell, Suna shapes her aura into multiple spears that float stationary next to her until she plays sudden, accented notes, which will then launch themselves out in a cone-shaped area all at once. Each spear is 60in / 152cm in length and 2in / 5cm in width, with the tip being slightly wider 3in / 7.6cm. The maximum cones of spears Suna can use is 1 + (Control/5). Apex Predator gives this spell an additional +3 power stack-able buff caps after 5 attacks or +15 to the enemy. She may choose to sustain the spell and hold back on launching all her cones.
This attack spell is not limited to which instrument she uses to launch the spears, as the technique is the same.
[Optional] Summoning An Instrument: If Suna does not already have an instrument on hand, she may summon her harp by humming a C (262hz). Her harp is 33"x19"x6" / 83x48x15cm.
It did not take long for Suna to reach the place where the note described. It was a quaint little house, seemingly tidy and well-kept. Very normal, and blended in well with the other establishments of the area. There was a lonesome oak tree about two stones’ throw away from the house, and it was there she stopped. Scanning the area, it did not seem like the lightning mage was home - nor the one person she was looking for. Her spirits slightly dampened, she decided to wait there. Perhaps they were on their way. She could only guess and hope that was the case.
The elf crossed her arms and leaned back against the oak tree, drawing comfort from its sturdy and strong nature. The bark felt scratchy behind her back, but she did not mind. Closing her eyes, she leaned back and breathed in the clean air. Somewhere up above her, there were a few birds chirping to each other. She breathed in deeply, and allowed herself to relax for a few moments in the peaceful atmosphere.
She had not been idle. It had only been a short while since the incident, but she had been busy researching about the aroma element and its common attributes. So far, she has discovered that aroma was, by nature, a powerful element. Anything that affects the five natural senses is something to be wary of. Everyone depends on the five senses in one way or another, whether in battle or in everyday living. Hence, the aroma mage is uncommonly strong - but she is not unbeatable, once one knew how it works.
That also meant another thing.
Vera could manipulate and affect one’s smell. In a similar way, Suna’s main element of sound could affect hearing. She has yet to fully understand her capabilities, but the more she discovers about the other witch and her spell abilities, the more her perspective is opened to new possibilities of her own potential. Elements related to or that could affect sight, hearing, touch, smell, and taste have an unfair advantage. She just needed to understand more how to effectively weld and use the power bestowed upon her.
Suna had been planning to go to the local apothecary to learn more about aromas and potions and such, but she had seen the notice so she rushed over here first. That would be next on the list, though. The slender figure stretched out her arms, and breathed in again. This time, she smelled something sweet, something musky.
Blue eyes shot open. Too late.
"Hello again, my dear! Did you miss me?" A feminine laugh rang throughout the area.
Pink smoke surrounded the blue elf, temporarily blinding her vision. Her hands immediately flew to cover her nose and mouth. For all she knew, breathing now would be disastrous. She needed to get out of this smoke. She attempted to move out of the column of smoke, but somehow, her legs were not working. She looked down. It was too hazy to see what was binding her feet, but she would not be surprised if it was a restraining spell similar to her own Ritenuto. Vera’s spell was too strong for her, she could not break free. Baka!
"Now now, little sister," the sticky sweet voice cooed, "Aren’t you even going to say hello?"
No! Suna was smart enough not to open her mouth. Doing so would allow the spell to enter into her system. However, her eyes were stinging from the thick haze. It was a sweet and pungent scent, seemingly innocent. Think, Suna, think! She could summon her harp, but she would need both hands to play it. That would leave her exposed to the spell’s effects. She had no choice though. All her current spells relied on her harp. How she wished she had finished training her intermediate spells before this! She even had a healing spell that could cleanse herself of any debuffs or poisons. Dang it! She would have to take the risk.
Suna quietly hummed a C, and her harp materialized before her. Thankfully her upper body could still work, and the restraints were only on her legs. She grasped it with her right hand, keeping her left hand over her nose and mouth as best as she could.
"No? Not even a hello?" There was the sound of long nails clicking against something metallic. "I didn’t take you as rude, but I guess that dark boy must be into that sort of thing...Suna."
How do you know my name? The elf wanted to scream out, but dared not. Taking one last breath, she let go and quickly started the first few notes for Sforzando. However, the aroma magic was thick like a fog, trying to overwhelm and suffocate her. It was so dense, she could not even see the furthest end of her harp. Would her breath last long enough for her spears to form?
"Hmmm...we will have to do something about that insolence."
If it was even possible, the smoke began to change shapes in front of her. Did it change shapes, or was it just her vision failing? Her eyes were watering now, tears escaping from the edge of her eyes. She closed her eyes, her fingers still flying across the harp strings. Just a few more seconds... She could sense her spears floating next to her. With a sharp twang! Suna launched all her spears out, cone after cone, wave after wave. Then her breath gave out. Her lungs gasped for air, and the full force of the aroma spell hit her.
Just before she fell, she heard an enraged cry.
Everything was pink...so pink...
Suna: #166ac9 | Vera: #c9166c
WC: 947 ⊹ TOTAL WC: 1,471 ⊹ MUSE: 10/10 ⊹ TAG: @morty2 NOTES: Let the action begin! MWAHAHA
Stepping out of that bar, Hans stood there looking around for Simon who had gotten a bit of a head start. Not just inside the bar, but around it also had some sketchy folks loitering about. The bar was something that just wasn't easy to approach all around. After a few seconds, the merc's eyes set on the back of a familiar cloak walking away. As soon as he found the lightning mage, Hans started to follow him, slowly catching up as they got further from the establishment.
The two mages were now walking down a path towards the house which fortunately wasn't too far from their current location. This brought back memories on how Hans took up that job for Simon's wife days ago. The dark mage was heading down this exact path and the woman waited there for him by a dying tree, the very same these two had just walked past. Just like Simon, his wife wanted Hans to follow her back, but she seemed a bit more nervous and afraid. The dark mage could tell that she normally never did this sort of stuff, and part of him wanted to just tell her to turn back but there was a look in her eyes, something that told the dark mage that she wasn't going to budge, that she really wanted to go through with whatever task she had for the merc. Hans eventually followed her back and the rest was history.
Now glancing at the woman's husband, Hans notices a similar spark in his eyes. The merc was now curious of if this is Vera related. He silently wondered if he went through with telling his wife about his misdeeds. Whether he was not in control or not, Simon was still beating himself up pretty badly back at that forest. Hans decided to keep to himself about this however. If the lightning mage wanted to talk about it then he would do so on his own.
"Where getting close." Simon said, breaking the silence. Hans looked at the man then back forward. There was a small hill the to had to walk up of. They couldn't see the house now, but the moment they make it up it will be in view. "I can't thank you enough, Hans." Simon added, causing the merc to look back at him with a slight puzzled expression. "...Ah." Hans then realized that he wasn't referring to taking up this unknown job right now, but for what he did previously. "Yeah. If it wasn't for you, I would've still been under that awful woman's control." The lightning mage said, looking down at his own feet as the two went up the hill. "Hm, you costed me my payment." Hans added. Simon looked up at the man quickly, almost as if he wanted to apologize, but even behind that stoic expression, the lightning mage knew that the merc wasn't being...too serious about that. "Haha, right..." Simon chuckled nervously.
"The one you should be thanking is Suna." Hans said as he continued to look forward. Simon looked up at Hans once again. "Suna? Oh, the elf! Trust me I intend to. Hopefully she found my message. I've sent her the directions of my home." As Simon said this, the merc gasped lightly and looked at Simon who looked back at the dark mage confusingly. "Did I say something wrong?" Simon asked, causing Hans to turn away. "No..." The thought of potentially seeing that elf again so soon...it made Hans feel weird, that strange warmth once again returning. "Heh, trust me. I've been where you're at." Simon jabbed a little much to Hans' confusion. "What are you talking abo-" Before Hans could finish, the two finally made it to the top of the hill, both stopping in shock at what they were witnessing. "No...not again..." Where Simon's home was located could barely be seen as it was covered in a dense pink smoke. Simon who has slightly stronger sensory than Hans was very familiar with this scent...this aroma. "No no no!" The lightning mage ran down the hill towards the house without thinking twice. Hans held his hand out as if he wanted to try and stop the man but he was moving fast, lightning surrounding that mage's feet which must have been more of his physical reinforcement. Hans had a feeling who this might be, and decided to follow suit with sword, Dark Edge now drawn out.
The moment Simon got close to the aroma, he quickly covered the bottom half of his face with his cloak as he started to struggle with trying to find away around. Hans managed to catch up and looked at the dense aroma. He squinted his eyes to try and get a better look within but to no avail. He then came up with an idea. The merc's dark grimoire floated out of its strap and opened up to a certain page. As a dark aura surrounded the book, the man held his free arm out with palm open. "Black Hole..." Two miniature black holes formed in front of the man's hand. They both started to absorb the aroma surrounding the house until it was all gone....with that seductress Vera standing there with a menacing smirk.
"Mmmm, look whose come back to me. My tall dark handsome...and powerful Hans~." Vera eyed the merc, getting a good look at his features once more, biting on her lower lip. "Y-You..." Simon chimed in, causing the witch to look in his direction with a bit of disgust and disappointment. "Hmm? Oh it's only you. I'm addicting I know, but you've outlived your usefulness. I've found a new toy to play with." Simon clenched his fists in anger. He was about to take a step forward and do something, but the merc placed his free hand on the lightning mage's chest while his katana was still aimed in the woman's direction. Simon looked at Hans and reluctantly decided to stay back. "Why are you here?" Hans asked in a demanding tone. The witch simply shook her head before saying, "Mmm, eager to get to the point aren't we? Very well, only for you~" She'd then gesture towards a tree by the house, where another person was. It was...
"S-Suna?" Hans was just about to sprint over to the elf, but he needed to keep his wits about him. He cautiously made his way over, trying hard not to break eye contact from the witch in case she'd try something. "Just wanted to play catch up with my little sister....and I may have accidentally poisoned her a little. Oops." Vera added, placing a hand over her mouth in a mocking fashion. "Sister?" Hans looked at Vera before looking back down at Suna now crouching to be at her level with a concerned expression growing on his face.
wc - 1,171 twc - 1,818
Mana - 50/50 (Mana Regen +20 Due to Quick Charger)
Name of Spell: Darkness Magic: Black Hole Elemental Type: Dark Rank & Spell Type: Junior - Defense Creation Range & Speed: 23 meters - 10 m/s Mana Cost: 10 (Initial) - 5 (Sustain) Stats Effected: N/A Applicable Perks: Quick Shot, Skilled Sniper, Self Repairing Description: After landing on the correct page, the user creates a small black hole that floats idly beside them which they can control up to twenty-three meters around them. Other spells of the same rank or lower that come into contact with the black hole will be absorbed so long as the user has +5 Durability over the opposing spell. This spell still follows the Defense Creation health and spell clashing rules. An additional black hole can be formed for every ten control the user gains. (Spell gains +5 Durability)
Last Edit: Jun 15, 2020 12:05:43 GMT -5 by Deleted
To activate this attack spell, Suna will strike up a quick series of notes, loud and sharp like the patter of winter hail. Her pure aura will morph into white flint-like arrowheads (2in by 3in) that hangs above the enemy, and her sound will make those arrowheads fall down in an circular area of 10 meters. The density of falling arrowheads will depend on her ability to play in polyphony, a musical texture consisting of two or more simultaneous lines of independent melodies, as opposed to just one dominant melodic voice.
To sustain the barrage, Suna must keep her tempo above vivace (lively and brisk tempo, 156–176 bpm) and play a series of tremolos, which is repeating a specific note or notes as rapidly as possible to produce a quivering effect. Apex Predator gives this spell an additional +3 power stack-able buff caps after 5 attacks or +15 to the enemy. At Suna's current junior level, it cannot be sustained for more than three motifs (three posts, not including the post when the spell is cast); then the piece must be started again from the beginning and the spell must be recast.
This spell is not limited to which instrument she uses, it is only a musical form type.
[Optional] Summoning An Instrument: If Suna does not already have an instrument on hand, she may summon her guzheng by humming a G (392hz). Her guzheng is 64"x12.6" / 162x32cm.
Something was tickling inside her throat. After a fit of coughs, Suna opened her eyes. Her range of view was still hazy, and she could still see traces of pink wisps in the air. Sitting up, she rubbed her eyes, trying to clear her vision and reorient herself. The first figure she saw was a dark form, the man she had been so eager to see. Suddenly shy, she brushed away imaginary grass off her clothes and got up to her feet, although she wobbled a little from the sudden movement. She noticed another familiar figure. Oh, the lightning guy!
However, her eyes immediately snapped back to the dark mage. Her mouth opened to call out his name. "Hans!" That was what she wanted to say, but all that came out was a breath. Huh? She coughed a few more times, and tried again. Nothing. Just the slight woosh of air from her mouth.
"My little sister here has been quite rude, not even saying a hello to greet me." Again, that tapping on something metallic. "I had to make sure she is brought back to her manners, see?"
The blue elf whirled to face Vera, who was just standing there with her signature smirk and crossed arms. "What are you talking about?" Her mouth opened and closed. No words came out, besides a few unintelligible noises. Suna’s eyebrows furrowed, trying to understand what had just happened. The last thing she remembered was shooting out her spears, but then what happened? Then it hit her. I breathed in the spell. Her hands flew to her throat as understanding dawned on her. I’ve been poisoned. My voice... Horror crept up in her mind, sending tingles down her entire body. Her hands clenched in fury and horror at what the aroma witch had done to her.
"Serves you little c--t right. What part of ‘he’s mine’ did you not understand? You will pay for this!" Vera had spoken in their witches’ tongue, but immediately switched back to the vernacular language. "Why, she is more rude than I thought!" She feigned a look of mock surprise and hurt. "Suna, you didn’t even tell this gorgeous man--" her eyes raked over Hans boldly for a few seconds, "--that we are sisters?" Again that sticky sweet laugh. "I’ll make sure to punish her for that later!"
Suna flinched before she could control it. She did not want any association with Vera, but now that she could not speak… Blue eyes turned beseechingly to Hans, trying to communicate that she was not related to Vera at all. Her hands were in front of her, also trying to say what her voice could not. Whether or not he would understand her silent protest was uncertain - she could only hope he did not leap to the wrong conclusions.
Vera now looked down at the lightning mage in distaste. "I’m tired of you. The very smell of you is like old dirty socks dipped in rotting eggs! Now, let’s see," her hand closed around something near her throat. "Lovestruck..." she murmured, and pink magic flowed out of her, attempting to encircle the three mages. It was the restraining spell she had used earlier. It immediately rendered Suna helpless again, although she did not know about the other two. "Sweet Dreams." Pink clouds began to form, trying to envelope the two male mages. Not towards Suna, however. "You will watch me destroy your precious boy!"
My harp! Can I still summon it? Suna hummed softly, and her harp began to form. Yes! She may not be able to say anything, but she still had her trusty harp and her spells. Weak junior spells, but better than nothing. She swept her hands across the strings, starting a lively piece for Capriccio. Her aura shaped into white flints of arrowheads, hanging above their heads in midair. But only for a few brief moments.
Immediately, she picked up the tempo, and her quick music caused the white flints to rain down in a circular area. It was like hail, those white flints dropping down. She had cast an attack spell upon the group, herself included. However, since she was controlling her arrowheads, they would not hit the two men, only Vera. Hopefully, some would hit the aroma mage and stop her from casting. It was certainly an unconventional move, using an attack spell as defense, but it was the first thing she had thought of.
She was sure the other two mages were doing something or saying something, but all her attention was on the pink witch. However, before she could do anything else, a warm southern breeze blew, and...cleared away the smoke. Her eyes widened. Wait, what? There was only her and the two men. Where did she go?
Vera had disappeared.
WC: 801 ⊹ TOTAL WC: 2,272 ⊹ MUSE: 10/10 ⊹ TAG: @morty2 NOTES: Poof! like magic =D
Hans looked over Suna, not realizing how close he was. The man was worried which was strange because he hardly knew the elf. Still, it didn't stop the beating in his chest as he wondered if she was still alive. Fortunately he didn't have to remain on that question for long as the woman started coughing, followed by the opening of her eyes. Hans' expression loosened up a bit and as Suna wobbled to her feet, Hans got up as well, ready to catch the elf if she were to fall. Suna was alive...but something seemed off.
The elf struggled to speak, catching both Simon and Hans by surprise. "Are you...feeling okay, Suna?" Simon asked, but then both his and Hans' attention were shifted to Vera as she started to explain what she did to the blue elf. "Brought back to her manners? What are you on about?" the lightning mage inquired while Hans went back to looking at Suna. The merc was beginning to put two and two together seemingly around the same moment the elf has figured it out. "Her voice." the merc mumbled which was low enough that probably only the elf has heard him, but judging from his expression alone, Vera would notice that he managed to figure it out. The seductress stole Suna's voice, poisoned her. An underhanded move. But then there was another revelation the wicked woman gave out that surprised the two males.
"Sisters...?" the merc repeated, a bit louder than what he previously said. Simon looked even more shocked about this news. "You're...related? You'd do this to your own sister!?" Just then Vera would start insulting the poor lightning mage again, causing his look of disbelief to turn that of anger, almost similar to how he was towards Hans during the first meeting. "Grrr, why you...You costed me everything..." the man's grimoire crackled with lightning around it as he was preparing a spell. Hans watched the two quietly, still trying to come to terms with some things. He noticed from the corner of his eyes, Suna waving at him in some fashion. He looked at her, trying to decipher what she was trying to say, but before he could think more on this, a pink aura had surrounded the merc, causing him to gasp. The same magic had captured Simon and Suna as well. "Shit, restraining magic!" Simon yelled as lightning started crackling around his body in an attempt to break himself free. Hans was struggling as well, dropping his katana in the process however he appeared to be breaking himself out slowly. With his arms bound down, the merc wasn't able to summon another black hole to absorb the spell despite his grimoire floating idly beside him.
Pink clouds of aroma were now surrounding the two males. "Ack, n-no...I-I can't..." Simon started coughing as he grew weaker, the lightning that was once around him fading as he grew quiet. Hans appeared to be fairing better, but not by that much. He started coughing, his eyes struggling to remain open, but still he tried to break free from his restraints. "Can't...see.." A vision of pink was all Hans could witness. Everything started to feel heavy to him, as if he wanted to collapse. It's been years since the merc had felt this helpless before, not a thing he could do to protect himself, Simon or Suna.
The elf was able to come through however. Sounds of things colliding into the ground could be heard and shortly after, the three were freed from the restraining magic, causing Simon who was already unconscious to fall while Hans fell to all fours, gasping for air as the pink clouds faded. He looked in the area where Vera once was with his vision still a bit blurry then to Simon's downed body. Staggering to his feet, Hans continued to cough. "She...gone?" Hans asked, his voice a bit shaky as he looked towards Suna which quickly reminded the dark mage that she could no longer speak. Even though a shake of her head could suffice, the man still felt a little bad for asking. While still a bit weak, Hans crouched down to pick up his sword and slid it back into the sheathe. He looked back at the unconscious lightning mage then at his house. "C-come on." Hans said at the elf, gesturing towards the house. He then proceeded to pick up the knocked out mage and went over to open the door. He gestured to let Suna in first and if she did, he'd go in behind her and close the door.
The three would now be in the living area with about three couches, a table in the middle, a fireplace that wasn't lit among other furniture you'd usually find here. It was also very quiet. Didn't seem anyone else was home. Maybe Simon did tell his wife after all....
Hans laid Simon on one of the couches before heading towards Suna to see if she required any assistance, hesitating a bit. "It looks like he'll be okay." Hans said, gesturing to Simon. He looked towards the elf once again. He wanted to ask if she would be fine...but given what happened to her he was a bit hesitant. He looked a bit concerned, and shy. The merc decided to walk over to a nearby wall and lean against it with his arms crossed, trying to gather himself. He still felt a bit shaky, but he was worried least about himself at the moment. This all happened because that Vera woman wanted Hans...It was his fault, or that's how he saw it.
With a bit of time going by, and the merc silently in his thoughts, looking towards the elf occasionally he finally settled with something. "...I'm gonna go find her." he said before getting up from the wall with some signs of him not fully recovered. This was just the first part of his plan however. "Watch Simon." he added, not sure if the elf would listen to him or not. He'd then started heading in the direction of the door, but there was still one problem.
How? How did she disappear that fast? If it was in another situation and time, she would have been analyzing and admiring the opponent’s tactics. However, there were others with her, and there were more pressing issues to address...like the lightning mage on the ground.
And how close Hans was standing next to her.
Immediately her heart began to pound. She turned her head away, letting her blue hair partially cover her rapidly reddening face. This was fast becoming a repeating pattern, and somehow, this handsome mercenary was the cause of it. She barely managed a nod to confirm Vera’s disappearance. Even so, she could not keep her eyes away from him even as he carried the lightning mage into the house. She ran ahead to open the door for him, although she did notice his gentlemanly gesture, which only made her duck her head, trying to hide her blush.
She closed the door behind her, and scanned the living room. It looked like a comfy place, with all the couches and the low coffee table in the middle. She could not tell if there were other people living in the house or not. Come to think of it, did he ever tell his wife? No one else was in the house when they entered. Suna could only hope the best for the unfortunate couple.
Hans was looking in her direction. She struggled to keep her composure, not knowing if she was successful or not. The lightning mage looked fine for now, though he seemed to be put to sleep. So far, that seemed to be the only use of that Sweet Dreams spell. It was a curious thing, but the elf had noticed that Vera, though powerful, had used the same spells as before. She knew the aroma witch had other spells in her arsenal, but for one, she was not very original, and had her patterns. All she had to do was to figure out what those patterns are. There was no time to lose - they had to find Vera. Or at least find out what she was planning to do next. Suna was sure that this was just the first retaliation from the pink mage. There would be more. The question is, what?
Apparently the dark mage came to the same conclusion, and announced his decision to go find Vera. "But do you know where she is?" She wanted to say, but again, only unintelligible noises came out. It would take some time to get used to her new predicament...but she would manage. She had to. She ought to be grateful to Vera, since the aroma witch had targeted her and not the other two men. Who knows what she could have done to her Hans?
Wait, her Hans?
Nay, he belongs to no one. The elf stared wistfully at the strong back, still blocking the doorway. She would love to go with him, wherever he was going. In the heat of all the action that had just happened, she had not particularly picked up on Hans’ special attention towards her. However, she had heard the exchange about Vera and her being sisters. She would have to clear that misunderstanding up as soon as possible, but with her being mute, that would be for a while yet, until they find a way to restore her voice. The best she could do...is to write it out.
Suna went into action, looking throughout the house for paper and a writing instrument. She found a scrap of paper that looked and felt the same as the notice in her pocket. It was a small scrap, only big enough to write a few words, not a lengthy explanation of her relationship with Vera. The first question she wanted to know was how long the poison would last. Was it temporary? Or was it permanent? Where could she find the answer? Poison...
Perhaps she would still be visiting the local apothecary today.
She started writing. She crossed the room swiftly, lightly tapping the mercenary on the shoulder. If he turned, she would hand the note to him, which she had written:
Not sisters. Vera’s necklace. Apothecary.
Suna pointed to her throat, then used her hands to tap against an imaginary necklace. That was the metallic sound she had heard earlier, Vera’s long fingernails against her necklace. She had not gotten to get a good look at that pendant, but there must be some connection of that with her spells. Perhaps it was where she stored her most lethal poisons and aromas? Suna could only guess, but she had a hunch that it was related somehow.
Hoping that Hans would understand her hand gestures, she would motion for him to give her the paper back. She would point at her scribbles and then back at Simon. She was planning to leave the note on the table for the lightning mage to find when he woke up. That way, she could go with Hans, and they would not have to worry about the other man, as he would know where they were.
For a few heartbeats, she allowed herself to be caught up in those mysterious dark eyes. One part of her felt pity that he happened to be chosen as Vera’s next plaything. But on the flip side, it had given her the opportunity to meet him. For that, she could be thankful for. Breaking her too-long stare, the blue-haired elf looked nervously down at her shoes, at the wooden pattern of the floor - anywhere but the man in front of her. He had been on her mind, and she really was glad that she got to see him again, albeit in a different situation than what she would have preferred.
WC: 960 ⊹ TOTAL WC: 3,232 ⊹ MUSE: 10/10 ⊹ TAG: @morty2 NOTES: Gah my heart...
Hans had prepared himself. He continued to walk across the room towards the entrance with his grimoire back in its holding place and sword in its sheathe. He was ready to find Vera in hopes of ending this and getting Suna's voice back. The merc had an idea on what could be done, but the main problem was his lack of knowing where Vera would be. He's only ever saw that woman in two places, that lake and here at this home, but both don't seem to be where she usually resides. There is also the matter of waiting around for her to come back. She obviously has unfinished business, but Hans wanted to handle this now.
The merc stood there in front of the door for a bit as he tried thinking this through. "Hm?" It was then the man felt a gentle tap causing him to turn his head a bit around before turning his entire body to meet Suna. He looked at her questionably before his eyes shifted down to the paper she held. It took the man a few seconds to realize she wrote this. The elf had good penmanship, fitting with how well put together and proper she looked. Hans was beginning to wonder if she is a noble, but that thought was pushed to the back of his head as he actually started to read it. "Not sisters?" The man thought to himself. She must've been referring to what Vera said earlier. Hans was already suspicious about that as the two didn't really look similar in anyway. Still, these two have some sort of connection, that much was obvious, but again Hans was never the type to pry unless it felt necessary.
The next was about that wicked woman's necklace, something Hans took notice of back during the battle. That appeared to be the source of her spells, or at least some of them. The dark mage doesn't remember seeing her use a grimoire so he wondered if she had one since it wasn't impossible to use magic without one. There was also another thing about the necklace...something that was bothering him. It reminded the merc of a necklace...his mother once wore. It definitely wasn't the same, but it was special as well. He wondered if it was still there....at Aries Garse.
Snapping out of his little trance, Hans looked at Suna once more as she gestured for that paper back. He took one more look at it, focusing on the last word. "I see..." An Apothecary...They might have something to cure her voice. Giving the paper back, noticed that she left it on the table for Simon. The merc took one look at the still sleeping man. He started to realize that she wasn't going to just stand around and do nothing. That right there made the merc quickly exhale out his nose, as if he were trying to suppress a small laugh. He respected people with courage, so long as they didn't do anything foolish. "You sure about thi-" As his eyes set back on Suna, he'd notice that the elf was staring at him a bit. He didn't know what to say...finding himself lost in her beautiful blue eyes. That strange warmth was back again, the merc's heart pounding which was something that only really happened on the battlefield. A strange feeling, but quickly it ended as the elf looked down.
Still a bit confused about this, Hans wanted to say something, but wasn't sure what to say. He looked away as well, until something popped in his mind. "Hey." he said, placing a hand on her shoulder with some hesitance. "We'll get your voice back." If she decided to look up at him again, Suna would notice Hans' giving a more reassuring expression. Despite not smiling, he tried his best to look as though everything would be okay. This was all still weird for Hans. Never has he went this far for someone unless yul was involved.
So what was he doing this for?
Hans would then proceed out the door with Suna if she decided to follow. There was a Apothecary nearby, right around where that bar was. The merc would proceed down the hill where he came from with Simon and after a bit of walking down a path, that shady bar could be seen but a little farther out there were some buildings. It was a small town which lacked a name. Gesturing to Suna, the man would continue on, a bit more walking needing to be done.
Once in the small town, one could easily take notice how run down it is, with some not so kind looking folks. Some of them even made...questionable gestures towards the elf which caused the merc to silently glare at them. This place wasn't exactly a vacation spot. This was a place people needed to watch their backs. Finally, Hans would approach the shop which was in a bit better shape compared to the other buildings and homes. Opening the door, he'd once again gesture Suna to go in first before following in.
"WELCOOOMMMEEEE!!"
The merc would be quickly taken off guard by the peppiness of the Apothecary that ran this place. She stood there at the counter waving happily at her customers. The place was filled with all sorts of items which appeared pretty old. "Ooooo, what a lovely couple!" the woman said, jumping over her counter to approach the two in awe. Hans blinked a few times, getting slightly flustered. "W-what? Where not a-" The woman then stopped the merc by wagging her finger at his face.
"Now now, don't be shyyy. I've got a wide variety of romantic related things that can really spice up your love life!" The girl then went behind the counter and started rummaging through stuff. "I've got a "Love Again" potion for those couples who are losing their spark, a wonderful perfume for the lady that'll make you VERY irresistible...just don't use it around wolves. OH and lets not forget about this little capsule!" She said as she picked up a pill, focusing her attention more on the merc. "You take one of these and...let's just say you two will be at it like a couple of rabbi-" "Stop!" Now it was Hans' turn to interrupt with a surprising little outburst....something he has never done before. "Just need a cure. She was poisoned and now she cannot speak." Hans said as he gestured at Suna while looking away, still a bit flustered. The Apothecary blinked a few times before shrugging. "Well why didn't ya say so?" she then started going through more of her items all while Hans sighed, pinching the bridge of his nose with his eyes closes.
She could get used to this, being besides the man that is making her feel all types of strange reactions. Despite all these tell-tale signs, though, the elf has yet to comprehend what was happening to her. She only found it strange, this attraction to this particular human. He was easy on the eyes, despite his stoic expressions. She was glad that there were no scars to mar the handsome face, although she did not know about the rest of his body. However, she stopped herself there - some types of imagination would only topple the delicate balance between friendship and something more.
When she handed him the note, her observant gaze had noticed various feelings cross the mercenary’s face. There were some hints of understanding, a note of agreement...and a look of reminisce, but something akin to sadness. There were many things that she did not know about him, but she was sure he did not have an easy life growing up. Few did, after all. Her heart ached to comfort him of whatever shadow he was living in, but did not know how. It probably was not in her place anyways, as this was only the second time they have met.
Thus, she was taken aback when she felt a hand on her shoulder. Her head flew back up, eyes questioning on what was going on. He then proceeded to reassure her that they would get her voice back. She did not know what to be more flustered about, the innocent physical contact, or the warm words of comfort. Whatever spurred the action, it made her heart flutter.
Even now as they walked, she could still feel the barest presence of his hand on her shoulder from earlier. They journeyed down the hill from the house and back into town, with her still walking behind him, although only a step behind now. Like Hans, she had noticed that the small town looked run-down, boasting little of its inhabitants and how they fared. Indeed, she caught some of their stares and rude gestures, but her facial expressions gave nothing away. Was she finally getting used to blocking out all the negative attention she often receives? Or was it something related to the man beside her, of her not wanting him to see her weak?
She almost bumped into the dark mage when they arrived at the apothecary. Thankfully she stopped herself just in time, and noted again his gentlemanly gesture to let her in first. "Arigato." She mouthed, and entered the threshold.
"WELCOOOMMMEEEE!!"
The shop owner’s energetic greeting was not what she had been expecting, but it brought a genuine smile to the elf’s face, and she gave the other woman a little wave to return the welcome. It was such a refreshing tone that contrasted starkly with the people outside. The woman had proceeded to ramble on about how cute they were as a couple.
A couple? It was the first time Suna had ever been paired with someone as a ‘couple’, and the fact invoked all sorts of confusion - and a warm feeling she had not been expecting. She only shook her head at the bold declaration, trying to communicate that she and the mercenary were not an official pair. However, it was all in vain, as the other woman continued to ramble on and on of items that were related to romance. Hmm...
It was not until Hans abruptly cut her off when the shop owner finally paused in her sales pitch. However, it did not seem like the message got across, and the man looked a little pissed. Suna stepped forward, coughing once to get the owner’s attention and motioning to her throat.
The girl immediately snapped her head back. "Sooo a poison, you say? Poor girl. Did you get in the way of someone? Let me guess, a jealous friend?" She tapped her foot on the floor, and seemed to be thinking hard. "What type?"
Suna shrugged. How would she know? Her hands made a motion of inhaling. Her eye caught a small glass filled with pink liquid on the end of the counter, and she pointed to it, hoping the girl got the meaning from its pink color.
The other female leaped towards it and shoved it under her nose. "Ooo good choice! This here potion is the best-selling item in my shop! Multi-purpose and is completely undiluted belladonna! Some people use it for their whooping cough, others just die from it." She threw a hand up in the air carelessly, as if she was not responsible for what her wares did to her clients. "It can be a leeetle bit toxic, but all my female clients loves it because it can enlarge their pupils and give them those big eyes everybody wants nowadays. Hey," she leaned in until she was almost nose to nose with Suna, "I’ll even give you a discount on it, since you have the most be-uuuutiful blue eyes I’ve ever seen! What do you say, hmmm?"
The elf had only caught on to half of the woman’s fast speech, but her ears did perk up at the words ‘whooping cough.’ Perhaps it would work.
The girl seemed to misunderstand her silence for dissatisfaction, and hurriedly rummaged through the shelves. "Here!" She plunked down another vial on the counter, and Suna was surprised the glass did not break from the force. "Today’s your lucky day! I’ll even throw in this new aromatherapy tonic, made by yours truly with the most natural ingredients! Perfect for reviving someone in a swoooon!" Her words were accompanied by a dramatic action of swooning, a hand on her forehead and head tilted back. "This offer will last only if you accept within the next five minutes, and-"
Suna nodded her head, and almost regretted it, as the shop owner seemed to burst in her energetic display.
"Good choice, my girl!" She pushed the glass phials towards the elf, almost toppling them. "You will not regret this!"
The blue-haired elf glanced back at Hans, trying to judge his expression. She was not sure what he thought of all this, but what was there to lose?
After paying for the two potions, Suna carefully put the tonic one in her little pouch, and turned to go. However, she paused. Turning back to the shop owner, she motioned for a writing instrument, and was tossed something that looked like a feather pen.
"Just write it on the counter, sweetie! It’ll disappear in a few minutes after the ink has dried. Also one of my special concoctions!"
Has a pink witch purchased something here recently?
Immediately the woman’s demeanor changed. What had been energetic and bubbly had suddenly switched into something like...fear?
"I-I know nothing!" She furiously wiped at the counter with her sleeve, smearing the words until it was just a mess of ink. "Nothing! Never seen a pink witch in my life!" A nervous laugh. "T-Take your things and go! Go!"
The next minute, Suna found herself out in the blazing sun, and the door slammed behind them. What was that all about? Slightly disoriented, she turned to face Hans, whom she assumed had been kicked out with her. The woman’s denial had proven that she knew something, but Suna doubted they would get any information from her. She glanced down at the vial in her hand, and slowly swirled it around, admiring how potent the pink liquid was. Was this the cure for her voice?
WC: 1,251 ⊹ TOTAL WC: 4,483 ⊹ MUSE: 10/10 ⊹ TAG: @morty2 NOTES: Apologies for the wait!
Hans' still appeared a little flustered from the woman's previous accusations, but quickly he went back to his more neutral appearance. It was just a simple misunderstanding, nothing more! So why did it work the merc up so much? He had never made an outburst like that before over something so simple. The idea of him, and the elf as something more? Did he even consider her a friend? Of course! Why else would he try to help get her voice back? Even if he wanted to be...something more with her, or anyone, the merc didn't believe he would be able to do such a thing with the life he is currently leading.
The other woman seems to have gotten together why the duo was here, but still she ran her mouth. It kind of reminds Hans of another elf he has previously met, a boy gifted with a similar grimoire to his, but with a magic that opposes the merc's. He was a real talker, a perfect contrast to Hans.
Although her assumption on how Suna got poisoned was wrong, it did make the merc think a little about the elf's relationship with Vera. From what Suna had previously told Hans about that wicked woman, it only seemed like the elf has heard about her...but with how Vera has interacted with the blue woman, even going as far as calling her "sister" there is obviously more to it. Hans was curious, but this wasn't the priority at the moment, so it'll have to be handled at some other point.
But for now...
Hans was...also having a hard time trying to keep up with this woman. Her constant talking had him standing there completely confused. How some people are able to go on and on like this is beyond Hans. He could never see himself being so chatty, appearing like a lot of effort. But it seems as though that the woman might just have what the elf needs. "Uh..." The dark mage looked back at the blue woman, trying to flash her another reassuring look, but it sort of failed, almost appearing a little comical. He wasn't sure what to think of that vial as he was only able to follow half of what this woman was rambling. Part of Hans was now regretting coming here, and wondered if they would have better luck in the common or noble regions. At least whatever liquid inside was pink...so there's that?
The elf was now writing something on the counter, but before Hans could react to it, the woman was already reading it, and as if someone flipped a switch in her mind, the other woman's mood completely shifted. With an eyebrow raised, Hans quickly walked up and was able to read what was written, mere seconds before it was erased by the now fearful lady. It was about Vera, but a certain word caught the man's attention, enough for him to raise both brows.
Witch?
Turning his face towards Suna, Hans was just about to say something until he suddenly found himself and the blue woman being kicked out and door slammed shut behind them!
Blinking a few times while registering what just happened, Hans turned back around and faced the door. "Er, hey." the man then started knocking on the door, but there was no answer. Guess she was really worked up about that question. This was definitely worth investigating, but first things first. The man turned back to face Suna and eyed the vial. He waited for her to drink it. Hopefully this was the cure she needed, but if it wasn't...then the merc just might have to resort back to his original plan, and now that he knew that she's a witch, Hans might know of a certain place where Vera could be hiding.
Suna pursed her lips, eying the pink potion critically. Was this the answer? Or was this just a farce and would actually do more harm than good? She remembered that the shop owner had said something about her clients dying from it or something. But the elf figured that must have happened because of overdose. If she only took a little bit, nothing too bad should happen, right?
On second thought, her losing her voice might have be a blessing in disguise - it has stopped her from saying some dumb things and embarrassing herself in front of Hans. But since she did not know how long the spell would last, they would need to take care of this handicap as soon as possible. Besides, it seemed to be affecting Hans more than her - losing her voice did not mean that she could not cast her spells. So functionality wise, she had not lost much. Her abilities were all still there. However, she was touched that he seemed to care so much about getting her voice back. No matter what her doubts were about the potion, she would drink it, if even to put his heart at ease.
All right. She uncorked it, and sniffed the vial. The odor was not altogether too unpleasant, but it certainly did not smell like a bed of roses. Lifting it up to her lips, she drank a third of the liquid. It burned as it slid down her throat, and left a sticky sweet taste on her tongue. The elf’s face squished up as she swallowed. It was somewhat thick, and had a strange aftertaste. Even the worst iced tea she had tried tasted way better than this. She just hoped that she had not poisoned herself further.
The sound mage licked her lips, and cleared her throat. It still felt like it was burning her throat, but she mustered up a brave face. "Hello." She tried saying, but still, nothing came out. Shrugging her shoulders, Suna pointed to her wrist. Perhaps it needed time to take effect? But with that out of the way, she was at loss what to do next. She cocked her head at Hans, wondering what he had in mind. Back there, he looked like he had a plan to go somewhere - had she interrupted his original plans?
This time, it was her who put a timid hand on his arm, and smiled reassuringly up at the dark mage. A soft breeze blew, and her sky blue hair waved gently in the air. Her clear and unblemished face was turned upwards, and contented blue eyes rested beseechingly on a pair of dark eyes. She did not really care if the cure took a long time to take effect - she just wanted to know what he wanted to do, and what she could do to help. If he was going to go somewhere, she wanted to go, too.
WC: 492 ⊹ TOTAL WC: 4,975 ⊹ MUSE: 10/10 ⊹ TAG: @morty2 NOTES: Apologies for the wait!
Hans set his eyes once again on that vial. Was this really the cure, some tiny vial of pink liquid? It didn't look like much, but still it could be very effective. The merc was just as tensed about this situation as the elf...maybe a little more. The merc felt like this was his fault. He's the one Vera wants, and it seems that the witch sees Suna as an obstacle. She was poisoned because of him, or at least that's how Hans sees it, and he needed to take responsibility for it.
The sound of the vial being opened quickly snapped Hans' out of his thought. It was time to see if it'd work. The merc's heart sank as he watched her down the supposed cure. What if it wasn't the right one? What if it backfires and makes her worse? What if it....kills her? The man almost lifted an arm up as if he wanted to gesture the elf to stop, but he stopped himself. Not like it would matter since she was already in the middle of taking it. If the elf dies it would further be Hans' fault. The idea of that caused the merc's heart to sink. Another person he cares for dying right in front of his eyes...
Wait...cares?
This woman was barely someone he knows, yet the feeling of having something bad happen to her wasn't sitting well with Hans. This was only his second encounter with the blue elf yet he's starting to feel a connection with her, and it all started from when he first looked into the blue eyes of hers...the same two he's looking into right now in quiet anticipation of being able to hear her voice again.
But nothing happened...
"Suna...I..." Again Hans was at a loss for words. He looked to the ground and gritted his teeth. His fists clenched, wanting to punch something so bad and didn't notice the elf gesturing at her wrist. A gentle touch on his arm caused the merc to look up again at Suna's reassuring face. This was interesting. Suna appeared to be taking this a lot better than Hans was. A small look of worry on his face...turned to a very small smile, one that looked gentle. The man wasn't going to give up easily. He wanted to confront Vera about this face to face as originally intended. "Let's head to the Witches Fore-" Before he could finish that sentence, the man nearly jumped at the sound of something metallic clanking against something. He had his hand on the hilt of his katana, and turned around, thinking it was Vera. Instead it was the sound of some old wind chimes on a building nearby. The merc loosened up a bit and was now eyeing the wind chime as it danced to the rhythm of the wind.
That necklace...the one Vera was wearing. His mind went back to it and how much it reminded the guy of his mother's. It had magical properties as well, but it worked differently. That's when the guy's eyes perked up slightly as if he figured something out.
His mother's necklace...It might be able to help. The problem was the location. It's not like the merc didn't know where it was, he knew full well where to look, but...just the thought of that place makes him hesitate. But the dark mage knew he'd have to face that place eventually, and with a sigh he turned towards Suna, and said,
This dark mage was interesting, to say at the least. He may be a man of few words, but he had character. Suna had noticed his soft spot towards children, back in the forest when he made it clear to the lightning mage that the latter was not to make his child suffer. The mysterious quality of him was intriguing, and it only added to his attractiveness.
Suna watched as various emotions flickered across the man’s face. She could not tell what he was thinking of exactly, but she could pick up little tell-tale signs in his eyes. He seemed to be carrying a heavy load, judging by the worried look he had. "Don’t worry," she wanted to say, especially the way he said her name. It was like he was trying to apologize to her about something, although she did not know about what. It was not his fault that Vera targeted her, after all.
Instead, she just patted his arm and stepped back. Immediately she regretted it, as now she felt the absence of warmth and connection. However, she still had to respect his personal space. Perhaps that was what he needed, some space and time to sort his inner conflicts out. If it was going to help Hans, she was all for it. Little did she know that she probably would need the same thing.
However, he was muttering something, and she caught the word ‘witches.’ A little part of her flinched. It was still something she had yet to come to terms with. The wind chime behind them seemed to have startled the dark mage, and he had immediately dropped to a defensive position. It seemed like he was more jumpy about Vera than she was, and with good reason.
Aries Garse?
She had heard a little of the place, which gave her the impression that it seemed a little dark and shady. However, since she has never been there herself, she would hold off on her judgement until they got there. Even though she did not know much about it, it seemed like an important and significant place to Hans. Whatever that place held, she was ready for it. At least, that is what she told herself.
With the barest hint of a smile, the blue-haired elf nodded. They were going to Aries Garse.
