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.
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Post by Siobhan Zippel on Dec 6, 2020 19:16:29 GMT -5
"We're all family in the Forest of Witches." Siobhan's voice answered Verena's question with an even tone, her lips tweaked into a small smile. There were some who maintained tighter circles and family units of sorts, but Siobhan hadn't belonged to one of those groups growing up. "Though yes....there's no real concept of a father in the forest. Though some say we're all the daughters of the Queen, or the daughters of magic."
As she rose, she mused softly, "I'm still getting used to men, truth be told. Most of them haven't seemed half as wicked as the stories I read during childhood led me to believe."
Verena's tone was sweet, albeit faintly colored with some other emotions. Was the earlier praise of her appearance too much still then? Siobhan could've kicked Shizu in that moment for laying it on quite so thick, but it was merely in her nature to stir the pot from time to time from what the blonde remembered of the cat eared witch. Sometimes when people tried to help they went overboard, after all. Or was it something else? What horrors lurked behind those wide red eyes of this strange girl, met in such a strange manner? Hardly the place or time to do any sort of emotional digging when the witch considered it briefly. No, even in the forest you had to learn some social tact from time to time.
"I miss the sunsets there the most some days, or the sight of my sisters flying through the air as they exchanged bits of gossip or research." Siobhan sighed as their brooms climbed higher, keeping pace with the other girl. "Though I doubt any of the gossip there would constitute a good story." She cackled darkly for a moment, a break from the soft giggle she often was caught in when humored.
"Speaking of sunsets," She paused, noting the timing of the tale was corresponding somewhat well with the shifting sky around them as night's grip pushed further ahead on the waning day, "one of my favorite childhood stories was of how the ancient witch Tamine spun the stars into the sky. Some say she did it to better read her grimoire by at night, others that she wanted to prove her might rivaled the powers of creation. I always favored the version of the story where she made the stars for her daughter's sake, so that the child wouldn't need to fear the dark of a moonless night anymore."
They were nearing a perfect spot by then, so Siobhan slowed her broom considerably. "It sounds rather self important for a fable, but it's one of the first stories I remember being told by the elders of the forest growing up." She failed to elaborate on the other tales of Tamine or bring up any other mythological ancient witches. Better to save them for a different time. "We seem to be getting to a decent spot. Any boughs of this tree singing to you as a home for your ornament?"
Snow was flying everywhere, almost like a mini blizzard. Suna had to squint to see through all the flying white snowballs, trying to see how their ‘enemies’ were holding up. The little stunts with her aura and sound magic had worked, and she watched in satisfaction when the snowballs hit their snow wall, but having little to no damage. ‘Her’ gang had also followed her tip in aiming for the brown-haired leader, and it seemed fairly effective. She threw a triumphant look over to the dark mage, though she was not sure if he saw it or not. Regardless, her side seemed to be winning, and she was so proud of them.
But then the sound mage felt familiar dark magic being used on the other side of the field. Oh, had he caught on to what she did? She peeked over the snow wall, and her eyes widened when she saw the male mage cast a spell. Goodness, was he actually using a spell for his team? Sure, she had cheated a tiny little bit by using her magic, but this...he was not being very subtle. Not very subtle at all. Not with those dark barriers obviously shielding the ‘enemies’ from their attacks.
Some of the little boys from her side had their mouths open in surprise and awe, and Suna could not help but smile at their adorable expressions. She had no defense spells, but she was not about to let the mercenary beat her. She let her aura form a dome around her camp, much like for her Tremolo spell, but without the sound magic for attack and restraint. She was just about to do something else, until she noticed that the brown-haired leader of the other group ran free from Hans’ barriers and straight towards them.
"Fire!" The female gang leader shouted, and the barrage of snowballs flew towards the unlucky boy who was running wide open with no defense...but the snowballs hit someone else instead. The dark mage had apparently run out of his barriers as well, and took the barrage of attacks for the gang leader. She saw him go down, and for a second, thought he actually got hurt. She had risen and was halfway there before she heard his words about being ‘dead’ and saw his little smile. That man. But she would play along.
"NOOOO!!"
"W-We surrender!"
"Is he...dead?" That was from one of the boys from her side.
"Oh no." She said with exaggerated concern and walked over to the mercenary, where the group of children were huddled around him. "We’ll have to revive him back up, hmm?" All the kids seemed to nod in agreement. "But I’m from the enemy gang," she reminded them, arching an eyebrow. "If I heal him, will you stop fighting my gang for today?"
Assuming that Hans’ gang would agree, the elf would nod and then kneel down by the downed man. "I didn’t know you were an actor." She whispered into his ear, as she laid a hand softly on his chest. The necklace around her neck glowed, and blue aura magic began to form around him. Mother's Love. Light blue puffs clustered around the man, and she could hear the "oooo"s and "wow"s all around them. After a few more seconds, she waited for the ‘dead man’ to ‘revive’, then she would stand up and brush herself off.
"You promised, no more fighting for today." She reminded the other side. Assuming that the dark mage was back up on his feet, she would draw close and give him a small peck on the cheek...while one of her hands slipped into his pocket and attempted to grab the ornament. If her little distraction was successful, she would smile and dance away from him, holding her ornament up.
"Thanks for keeping this safe for me!" She laughed. All around her, the kids had gasped at her bold move. Some of the boys were making disgusted faces, while some of the girls gaped in wonder.
Just then, one of the little girls piped up. "So...we supposs ta heal our enemies an’ then kiss ‘em?"
"Yes...I mean, no!" Suna looked down at the innocent little girl, shaking her head and her hands. "No, no. Just shake the other’s hand and call a treaty for today, at least." She would have hoped that they would not even have these gangs, but if they stopped ‘fighting’ for even a day, that was progress. Now she tilted a head towards ‘her’ gang, but addressed the other side. "If it’s ornaments you want, I just taught them how to make some. So if you want them, you better play nice." She shook a finger at them in mock severity.
But now that she had her ornament back, they could get back to the tree now. "We should get going," she murmured to Hans. If he would allow it, she would slip her hand around his arm. "It was nice meeting you all." She gave them all a bright smile and a little wave. "Happy Yuletide!"
If the mercenary was okay with it, they would start walking back into town, though Suna would occasionally crane her head back to see what the two rival gangs are up to. Hopefully, they would at least forget their differences for the day and have fun in the snow together. ‘Tis the season of celebration with others, after all.
"Weren’t they adorable?" She said to Hans, once they were back in town. "And hey, you didn’t play fair back there!" She would attempt to give him a small elbow jab, but then laughed merrily. "But at least you got my ornament back, so thank you. Now," her blue eyes twinkled, "I wonder what your ornament is...you’ve been very mysterious about it so far..."
Rank & Element: INT | Pure Aura Class & Type: Magical | Accessory | Imbued Magic Specializations: Healing Appearance & Lore: Sapphire Heart, once belonging to Hans Walker's mother Drusilla Walker, is a magical necklace that was stolen and sold after the war. It fell under possession of a witch, and became poisoned and tainted under its new owner's immoral usage. However, after defeating the witch, Hans was able to take it back and restore it back to its original healing properties before passing it along to Suna Hoshi, its current owner. (picture)
Type & Uses: Flow Rank & Specialization: INT | Healing | Archangel's Blessing Mana Cost: 15 | 8 Range & Speed: 20m | 20m/s (AoE) Stats Affected: Cleanses & heals Description: The wearer must be in some sort of physical contact with the target(s) for the necklace to release its healing properties. Upon activation, the necklace will glow and light blue puffs of aura will form around the target(s) injured areas, cleansing them of any debuffs, hexes, curses, poisons, or venom following healing rules, as well as healing any intermediate bodily damages. This may heal also mana skin as well as physical health. If sustained for three posts, it can grow back small body parts (fingers, toes, ect). Following overheating rules, this may be used for four active posts before it overheats for three posts.
As Ozma heard his sister explain to her captain that he was mute and that he needed to use his magic for communication outside of sign language the older Yuiee was grateful for the explanation since it meant he didn’t have to explain. As she left to put her ornament on and he ripped into the captain of the Golden Dawn. So far it didn’t seem the man was scared of him but Ozma didn’t expect him to be considering he was leader of a magic knight squad. However once he heard him speaking of the family need to give her acceptance the paint mage could only sigh slightly and slightly shake his head as he wrote in the air. “you make it sound so simple Captain Zaven when its not its complex our family is a bit more complex there are rules and a hierarchy its not exactly simple to go off the path set and expect instant acceptance” he wrote before he caught the end of his sentence before he cut himself off and his eyes turned into narrow slits.
Before he could write another sentence Zaven said he would talk to him in length later to which the paint mage nodded. “very well we can sit down and discuss it at a later time ill also want to make sure you haven’t broken any family rules involving my sister as well” he wrote, Ozma knew that if the captain had broken any rules and depending on what they were the end result could become a fist fight or a tense situation very quickly. At the offer of hot cocoa Ozma nodded and wrote again “I’ll take you up on that offer while you get that ill go find my sister” he painted in the air before he capped his brush and would head towards the tree before spotting his sister on a bench with her ornament to the side of her and her eyes closed. For Ozma it was easy to see she was upset or stressed about something and he approached before he gently picked up the ornament and set it on his lap as he sat down beside her and tapped her hand lightly to get her attention like he did when they were younger.
Wheh she would look at him he had a soft and concerned expression on his face before he signed to her.”Whats got my baby sister so stressed and upset?” he asked before he gently set his ornament box down beside himself and then signed again. “it feels like its been forever since that day you left home sister iv missed you greatly” he admitted, while he fought with her like all siblings did she was still his family. “I know we have our disagreements but you know you can come to me when something troubles you Hinota your my baby sister and ill always look out for you” he finished signing before he glanced up at the tree before he smiled softly to her. “Want me to help you put your ornament in just the right spot on the tree?” he signed hoping it might cheer her up a bit
[attr="class","zavenreescroll"] ”I make it easy sounding because I am an outcast of my own family, and this is something I do not want for your sister. Look into my family sometime...see where I am coming from before our next private chat. Trust me whatever I have locked away, I am more than happy to give you a glimpse into what I have done.” He gave Ozma a token, a Blake heirloom; which was a family crest on the front of what looked like a casino chip, with a series of numbers at the archives in the Royal Capital. It was not an obvious sleight of hand, but enough of one as he turned away where he would need to sense him doing so. ”I will catch up soon.” He said as he hung his ornaments and gave the box away to a child before moving on with his hands in his pockets. [break][break]
Zaven was a mess when it came to anything to do with the opposite sex, but he was no monster. He had...feelings for Hinota, and he did not wish to make her life more difficult, especially her home life. However, judging from Ozma he had done just that. As the captain walked by a dimly lit alley he took a walk down and let the darkness envelop him for a moment before finally just punching a wall, a satisfying crack would sound throughout the immediate vicinity as he did this, and the shockwave of him doing so traveled up his arm as the pain registered. ”I am a fool...To think that I would have developed feelings like this for another woman...even when we don’t have enough in common...the gods punish me.” He said to himself as if just trying to vent before punching the wall, knocking loose a brick as he felt the skin tear around his knuckles finally, the warm blood running down his fingers as he clenched his fist still. ”If she wishes to leave the Golden Dawn...I will not stop her any longer, I will have to trust that she can keep herself safe and that's that.” He would absolve her of any worry in her mind, try to convince her that what happened was a fluke and he would just leave it be. He saw her stress...from the moment that they arrived, the small break as she looked around, and even when she had walked off. [break][break]
He did that to her… [break][break]
He came out of the alleyway and with his now bruised and bloodied hand he put it into his pants pocket and felt his mana already working to repair the mana skin and at least stop the bleeding...magic was...useful. He began to walk towards the nearest stall that was giving refreshments as he queued up, there were plenty of couples all around, a few people stared at him as they recognized the man, and others quickly looked away as they knew about him. Rumor’s began to circulate that the stand was out of hot chocolate and Zaven panicked a little.
Post by Hinota Yuiee✾ on Dec 7, 2020 13:43:26 GMT -5
The doll-like mage let out a deep sigh she knew she should be happy and enjoying the festivities but there was something deep within her that had almost died since the incidents that had taken place within Raque and Kikka. She was one of the unfortunate souls to be involved with both though she knew that there had been others that had returned to Kikka while some had been at the Royal Capital when it had been attacked, all in all, it would seem that no matter where you had been in regards to the attacks something had been taken from you. She moved her eyes around watching as people placed their trinkets on the trees, some even flying closer to the top regardless everyone was looking for that perfect place for their own item. From just outside of her field of vision she saw someone sit on the bench next to the one she was on, as she turned her head to see who it was when her brother moved onto the bench she was on picking up the lantern she had brought blocking her from seeing. She had to wonder where her captain was but given that he started signing from pretty much the moment he sat down she could get he was worried about her and smiled weakly forgetting about the person that had caught her interest. "I'm fine Ozma there's no need to worry." it was a blatant lie but she didn't need him flying off the handle right now "Where is my captain?" she asked while she nodded to his next statement, it had indeed been quite some while since the last time we have seen each other. "It's been around six months maybe longer since that day." she wouldn't go into any further details than that what had happened to her happened behind the closed doors of their family's estate.
She shook her head at the next part "You are talking to me as if I am still a child Ozma, that isn't the case anymore..." she whispered the last part looking away, she wanted to tell him that she was no longer that innocent young woman any longer but that would only fuel the flames of hate he already had towards her captain and she didn't want that either. "I'm a magic knight now just like you and so should be able to take care of myself." she knew at least part of this was true but she knew she still relied on people like Cyrus, Vulkan and Zaven to help her when she needed it as she still couldn't bring herself to harm anything it just wasn't in her nature. She closed her eyes as she gripped the bottom of her hanfu as she remembered what she had done to Zaven within their time training and felt her stomach turn, she still hadn't forgiven herself for that even if he had moved passed it. She felt like she would end up going to speak to her brother's vice-captain or captain and explain the situation because she didn't believe she could trust herself not to lose control again especially at the moment but she had also had an agreement begrudgingly on both sides that she wanted to honour at the same time, it was something that weighed heavily on her mind especially now as she thought of Valentine and how he had lost control in Kikka and how her magic could potentially be more deadly. She had to wonder if the same harsh words that she and others spoke to this man would have come if any of them lost the same control as he had. She would have to be more mindful and understanding with her words as she was currently in that same boat.
After a long moment of contemplation, he opened his eyes and looked to her brother once more "Things are... complicated." it was as best a description as the young woman could and would give to the other. She shook her head a little "In the end, it doesn't matter where it ends up, it is just a trinket." it was as simple as that to her now, this would be the same woman he knew was very specific on where everything went within her personal spaces as it seemed to bother her if it didn't but now it would be as if he was talking to a completely different person. Moving her head a bit she noticed the man on the other bench and smiled a bit, she knew he was one of the original group that had been in Kikka when it had been originally attacked by Sven and his twin children Ito and Lilitu. "Your name is Charles Constantine right?" she called out to the other, she wasn't meaning to be rude but since leaving Kikka she really hadn't had much interaction with people outside of those knocking on her door trying to get her to open up and socialise, that hadn't happened and it still wouldn't have today if Drake hadn't been incessantly banging on her door like the building was burning down.
"When you spend so long trapped in darkness, you find that the darkness begins to stare back."
Hans's "lifeless" body remained there on the snowy ground. Not only 'his' children but 'Suna's' as well have fallen for the merc's little trick. The dark mage could begin to hear a bit of sobbing and sniffles coming from some of the children around him, and it was starting to make the dark mage feel bad. He didn't mean to get them so upset and just wanted to have a little fun. Hans was just about to get up to show the children that he was fine until he heard Suna coming over, and the sound of her voice. The merc could tell that she has caught on by the tone of her voice, so he decided to hold off on doing anything, a bit curious at what the sound mage has planned.
Revival?
It seems that's what the elf was going with and the children from Hans' "gang" quickly agreed to the sound mage's deal. "Y-Yes, we'll stop fighting!""Please, heal him, miss!" The bigger kids were all in agreement and backed up a little to give the sound mage some room.
"I didn’t know you were an actor."
Honestly, neither did Hans...
The merc smirked lightly at those whispered words, small enough so that Suna could only see it from her position. He then felt the familiar warmth of Mother's Love flowing through his body. Even though there was nothing that needed to be healed, the spell still felt soothing and was something he will never get tired of. Hearing those little excited sounds from the children was making the man smile more until a light chuckle slipped out of his mouth, putting an end to his little act. The children didn't see it like that, however. "He moved!" Some of the children gasped and pointed. "It's really working!" The dark mage's eyes started to open, and he looked around before slowly sitting up, but before he could attempt to get to his feet, almost all of the children on Hans' side jumped on and wrapped their precious little arms around the merc, causing him to fall back over!
"Woah!" They were all so happy to see him safe and sound. Even though he may end up with a little headache after the sudden tackles, it was all worth it, in the end, to see the happy looks on their faces. "Y-yeah, I'm fine...You can...get off of me now." The merc said, his voice a bit muffled underneath the children, but they were still able to hear him and all got up, allowing the merc to get to his feet. The children were bouncing around Hans joyfully as they bombarded him with questions that were hard to discern because of all the talking, but they were mostly about if he's okay, or what did dying feel like. The children made room for Suna once again as she stepped back over to the guy and...pecked him on the cheek. Hans blinked a few times and blushed lightly at the lips that gently pressed against him. "What was that fo-" He didn't even need to finish, after noticing that Suna had her ornament in her hand once again, and gave her thanks. "I didn't you know you were so sneaky..." Hans added with arms crossed, sort of mirroring what Suna whispered to him.
After that, one of the children asked Suna an interesting question that Hans wasn't even ready for. "Ack, please tell us that ain't true." One of the boys near Hans said in response, and the merc simply scratched his cheek with a finger. "U-uh..." Fortunately, Suna had this all under control, and Hans did what any good boyfriend would do....nod and agree. With the children finally understanding, they started to walk over and shake hands with their rivals. The brown-haired leader was reluctant at first, but he ended up doing the same with the female one. Leave to Suna to bring rival gangs together...even if they were just a bunch of kids.
As Suna spoke to Hans' side, the merc nodded and did the same to her side. "In return, maybe they can help you all practice your forms." The merc added. This was all nice, but the couple needed to go. They still had a tree to get to after all.
Before they could completely leave, however, the brown-haired child tugged on Suna's dress. "Um...Sorry for taking yer ornament, lady..." The boy claimed, looking a little embarrassed. Hans nodded approvingly at the kid before looking at Suna. The man gave the children a little wave as Suna said her goodbyes, and just like that, the two were off. But as Suna decided to look back, she would most likely see the girl leader copying what the elf did and sneak a brief kiss onto the male one's cheek before running off giggling, making the boy's face light up, not knowing whether to be disgusted...or happy.
An eventful time, but there was still more to do on this festive day!
"Uh yeah...They kinda were." They were very adorable, but Hans was trying to act all mysterious again. Hans found himself glancing back at the children, trying to be subtle about it when in truth he did enjoy their company. "Made me feel sorta like a fathe-" The merc immediately held his tongue. "Er...They were...okay." He quickly added, rubbing the back of his neck as he looked away. A part of him does wonder though if this is what it felt like....to be a parent.
The subject was quickly changed however to that of Hans' mysterious ornament. "Ah." The merc pondered for a bit. It felt like he kept Suna in the dark long enough so he stopped, and assuming that she did so as well, Hans would slide his hand into his pocket, and take out his ornament. "Here it is." It appeared to be two angels, a man and a woman with their foreheads gently pressed against each other and fingers intertwined. "It's what my mother would place on the top of our tree..." Hans said, smiling softly. Of course, Hans made a little modification to it so that it can hang on the side of this tree instead by adding a little string to it.
This ornament hasn't been used in years but it still looks brand new with barely any marks on it. "She loved it very much...and it...reminds me of yo-I mean...us." Except Hans is no angel...or at least that's what he thinks. The merc found himself shifting his attention away again, getting embarrassed over the sappy words coming out of his mouth.
N O T E S
Hans' Coat (Is also wearing a pair of black gloves.)
Shizu couldn't help but smile just a little fondly as she watched Sio and Verena head up to place their ornaments, a little pleased at the notion of the two women getting along, after all Sio was always seeming so....withdrawn? No that wasn't the right word, but Shizu DID worry a bit that the girl was so focused on her work that sometimes she forgot that there were things outside of her art. Deep down she almost worried that Sio might not try to ACTUALLY make friends with Verena, and might just focus on getting her as a model. But she shook these wories away, focusing herself on the here and now. for the time being, she went about and got a little tray for their group, smiling a bit slyly to herself as she began to construct a couple plates for their group. a bit of turkey, some roast boar, a bit of fruit as well, grapes especially since she herself was quite fond of them. She also took the trouble of getting three glasses. She did pause, considering getting wine or something similar. Spirits for the holiday after all were a normal thing. Butt.... no..... that might be a bit forward given that Verena was still a bit of a stranger. She instead elected for mugs of warm cider for their group instead.
Yes perfect~ She smiled a bit gleefully at the little collection and made her way to a little table, one of many that were set aside for the festivities before she turned her attention back to the two women up in the tree, a fond look on her face as she began to mentally chew the situation as it were. Friendly as she was, there was something.....guarded about this Verena woman. She was smiling and going along with things so far yes.... but there was more going on behind the woman's eyes than she was expressing with her words. Shizu took a few grapes, popping them lightly into her mouth as she leaned on the table and chewed thoughtfully, mulling over the predicament. She supposed she was being a bit overly friendly. She supposed she DID allow sio's presence to excite her a bit more than usual.... she needed to dial things back. After all.... the woman seemed to enjoy the music box... she WAS interested in the pair, or rather, she seemed to find her and Sio interesting. Ah wait... Music! She perked up as she suddenly remembered the Spirit Ball.
It WAS her music that had broken the ice that time as well. Perhaps she could give it another go? She let her bright yellow eyes flick up in the direction of the pair, considering for a moment. Hmmm, this was a ....warmer sort of festivity than the Spirit Ball. Something.....jolly perhaps? She promptly stood up, making sure that the food she'd gathered was within her line of sight, to make sure it wasn't pilfered, she promptly walked out to an open space, cracking her knuckles gently and smirking to herself as she summoned her grimoire, that shining four leafed clover emblazoned across the cover. She then waved her hand, and a piano formed before her, deep rich wood with a glassy sheen that seemed to sparkle as she promptly seated herself at the front of it and then rolled her shoulders.
It was a nice, quiet start, and slowly as she let her hands play across those keys, but slowly, it began to build up into a warm, happy melody, and with just a tiny hint of something more bonding? Some might call it romance, but she felt it was a good friendhsippy sort of song as well, smiling to herself as she played for all those in the area, both eating, socializing, or decorating the massive tree nearby~ Just the sort of tune to help people open up a little.
Ozma blinked as the captain mentioned that he made it sound easy due to being an outsider of his own family, as he passed him a family crest which the Crimson Lion glanced at before he pocketed it and nodded.”I’ll take a look into it though as far as becoming an outcast its already looking that way for her unfortunately” he wrote with his brush before he remembered something .”also I would avoid getting my sister hot cocoa actually she is allergic and id rather not have to rush my sister to the hospital Id recommend tea if there is any” he added.
As Hinota told him not to work the elder just slightly shook his head before he started to sign to her. “Hinota your my baby sister ill always worry and as for your captain he is going to grab us some drinks its pretty cold so it would help to have a warm drink” he signed with a small smile on his face before he heard her tell him that he was still treating her like a child which caused the elder sibling to shake his head again.” I know your not a little girl anymore Sister but at the same time your my baby sister and its the duty of an older brother to look after his siblings. Ill always watch over you no matter what happens” he signed once more his look was comforting and understanding. As she mentioned that things were complicated Ozma nodded in understanding before he signed again.”im always open to hear whats wrong if not right now then how about tomorrow I can come visit and we can discuss it over tea” he suggested .
Looking up at the tree Ozma heard his sister say that she didn’t really care where it was put which made him frown slightly since it was unlike her but he decided to put it where she would want it.he gently pulled out his ornament first and let Hinota see it. The ornament was almost like a semi solid sphere of paint that shifted and twisted in brilliant rainbow of colors even shifting to ones that seemed almost impossible and he gently used his brush to make a thin hook of paint before he would make it extend and placed the ornament on the higher branches before he used another hook to move her ornament upwards close to where his was.”How about up here Hinota its got plenty of space and the light from yours will reflect mine around the tree” he signed wanting her opinion on it.
Post by Verena Reinsberg on Dec 8, 2020 6:31:52 GMT -5
[nospaces]
[attr="class","verenaver2image"] [break]
POW
DUR
SEN
STA
CON
007
34
10
032
030
[break]
MANA SKIN senior
HEALTH senior
MANA REGEN 25 IC // 20 OOC
MANA POOL 110/110
[break]
[attr="class","verenaver2scroll"]
Verena nodded accordingly. She had heard of that much from Suna. There was very much a sisterhood present in the Forest akin to how she had heard the Blue Roses were. Perhaps even more so, like those in the Witch's Forest only ever knew one another. Combined with the belief that they all shared the same mother... it was very easy to imagine how close everyone was together.[break][break]
She listened as Siobhan mentioned that she was still getting used to men. While Verena could partially see what she meant, it was still hard for her to wrap her head around that it was a purely female society. But, if she was to give her any sort of advise...[break][break]
"...Women are no different than men at the end of the day. Both are human."[break][break]
Verena didn't look Sio in the eyes when she said this, for this advice was not meant to inspire or encourage her. However, she also didn't want to outright state her opinions on this. Leaving such advice open-ended and having room for interpretation could inspire at least some degree of comfort, and for the beauty that was more important than telling her to be wary of any and all people.[break][break]
...Yes, people were truly awful.[break][break]
...But there were at least those who tried to work past that awful interior of their soul. That alone was something to be happy about. It would be, at least, if not for how fresh Kikka was in the brunette's mind, and thus it was hard to focus on the good that still existed in the world. Or that at least tried to.[break][break]
"... I think you'll see this as a home away from home in time."[break][break]
So far since the two girls had spoken, this was the closest to an opinion on anything Verena had said. Even her earlier advice could have been taken in a strictly factual manner, depending on how one decided to interpret it. Even still, she made sure to limit what she did say as best as she could.[break][break]
She listened as Sio changed the topic ever so slightly--rather, sharing a story from myth involving an ancient witch named Tamine. This was a very interesting story, and even the heiress could not hide how interested she was in this mythos. Her stoic demeanor shifted into genuine intrigue, and yet she still spoke in that hushed tone.[break][break]
"...If I could improve the light to read better, I'd have done the same."[break][break]
Verena let out a soft sigh, one of yearning. It had been so long since she'd been able to read; it at least felt that way. She just hadn't been able to immerse herself in any book. Fiction, textbook. She wasn't sure what to do with herself these days, and so she just lingered. Surviving for the sake of her ambition, but her spirit damaged. Only time would heal that much. She just had to work hard and get over it. But at least there was a break in Verena's guard now...![break][break]
Verena didn't answer the last question, but instead, she began circling the tree. She was aware that this was a good general area for it, but she had to find the right spot. She just wasn't sure where...[break][break]
It was faint, but she heard music down below, her eyes darting to find the source. Ah... it was Shizu. She should have known better, but the young woman was hopeful that it was someone else. Though even if it was, what was she to say to her at this point? She wanted to apologize, but she wasn't sure how. She just hoped her elven friend wasn't mad at her.
Post by Charles Constantine✾ on Dec 8, 2020 15:57:54 GMT -5
[NOSPACES]
"I'm no g e n i u s, I'm just a fool who keeps going forward."
[break]
@tagme
word count 467
total word count 1007
[attr="class","glentext"] The festivities were a sign that peace has finally arrived in the Clover Kingdom, after the operation to get back Kikka was successful, even though he didn't go there for the second time. He was relieved that it was successful and it gave a lot of room for people, especially the Magic Knights to relax and enjoy the festivities. Charles didn't feel as guilty either, the town was ultimately saved by a more capable group of Magic Knights. Peace had finally returned, but it was likely to only be temporary. His job however was pretty much permanent and this was one of the few times that he was acting doing something aside from missions or being in the base, might as well enjoy it while he still has time, the cold weather wasn't making things any better, he hated it. Though, his Vice-Captain was likely to enjoy this type of weather... [break][break] As he remained looking around where he was sitting down, seeing all types of people in the place, some of them using the festivity as a way to gain income. The silver mage spotted a food restaurant nearby which had quite a considerable number of people, which normally meant that if such a place gathered a crowd, it was likely to be good. Otherwise, why would people line up to eat bad food? [break][break] Suddenly, he heard an unfamiliar voice calling out his name, his complete name as a matter of fact. Charles turned to look at the person calling out his name. "Huh? Yeah, that's me." The silver mage was rather confused, he focused on ki briefly, trying to see if he had met her before, if he did maybe her Ki would be somewhat familiar, but it wasn't. The Black Bull didn't know her at all. He quickly listing down the possible reasons why she could know his name. Either she knew someone who knew him or perhaps she was one of the people who went to Kikka and knew the members of the original group. Judging by her choice of clothing, she seemed like she was from a noble family. Hinota also seemed to be around his choice by the looks of it [break][break] "Do you need something?" Charles asked rather casually not particularly caring if she was from nobility or not. He was rather curious as to how she knew his name in the first place and why did she call his name. Even though she looked like she was from a noble family, he felt that Hinota didn't particularly mean any harm or rude towards him. By the looks of it, she seemed rather curious, perhaps she just wanted to talk to him, which the silver mage didn't particularly mind. Talking to someone would make things less boring for him.
Post by Siobhan Zippel on Dec 9, 2020 0:41:30 GMT -5
As Verena interjected that men and women were much the same, all being human, Siobhan offered a small tweak of her head to the side as she contemplated it. She wondered at it briefly; were they truly so similar?
Or, perhaps more importantly to her, what was it to be human? She knew that biologically witches were similar to human women to the point that some saw them as interchangeable, but some of the elders in the forest were keen to assure the younger children that they were more evolved than humans. There were, in truth, fundamental differences between a human and a witch in little ways. Some of the more research oriented witches would use phrases like 'offshoots' and 'branches', but that only accounted for the physical side of things. It barely even scratched the surface of the cultural morals that she'd been raised to embrace.
She let it slide with a small good natured chuckle after a moment's thought. When the brunette voiced it being a home away from home, she waved her hand as if to dismiss the thought. "I can deal with a bit of homesickness from time to time if it means I get to travel, honestly. As much as I love where I come from, the same sights can only fuel so many projects. I want to see the outside world with my own eyes instead of through an illustration with all of the beauty and dreadfulness it has to offer." Her voice held no tease to it, but a zeal that she hadn't shown before.
When Verena mused about the story of Tamine, agreeing with the version where she could stand for more light to see by, Siobhan nodded. Very few ever sympathized with a witch challenging the powers of creation, after all, and it furthered a small hypothesis that the blonde had begun to develop of the brunette. She'd chosen knowledge over power or love, when you broadly split the three into the root meanings that the elders had ascribed to them. It was a little wishy-washy of a way to judge someone when held up to much scrutiny, but Siobhan always found the way people interacted with fables and stories to show a shade of themselves otherwise unconsidered. As Verena sighed, Siobhan's head bobbed slightly to the side. The animation the other girl had to the story had broken, even if briefly, a small bit of the formal wall she kept. Perhaps learning was the way into her good graces, a shared bit of knowledge? It was good to make a mental note of at least, even if she had no context of just what lay beneath that serene and guarded exterior.
As the search for a spot to hang their ornaments began in full earnest, Siobhan also heard the faintest sounds of keys fill the air around them in a happy tune, glancing down to see Shizu playing at a conjured piano. Giggling slightly, she called over to Verena, "I suppose we should find a place quickly before Shizu draws too much of a crowd." It was more for the brunette's benefit than her own. In the short time they'd interacted, Siobhan had drawn enough conclusions to doubt that her fellow broom rider was much for being in the center of a crowd.
Post by Verena Reinsberg on Dec 9, 2020 12:59:14 GMT -5
[nospaces]
[attr="class","verenaver2image"] [break]
POW
DUR
SEN
STA
CON
007
34
10
032
030
[break]
MANA SKIN senior
HEALTH senior
MANA REGEN 25 IC // 20 OOC
MANA POOL 110/110
[break]
[attr="class","verenaver2scroll"]
It wasn't as if Verena wasn't aware of the differences between witch and humanity; but those differences were so few and far between that when one got down to it, the only true difference was that in culture. But that was also because the Forest operated as its own independent country, so of course, there would be cultural differences even down to what one would call moral or ethical. They weren't bound by the same concepts that Clover was.[break][break]
Magical differences didn't make one a different species entirely. Magic itself was as varied as the people who inhabited the world. Though she wouldn't vocalize this, to think one wasn't human because of cultural reasons, or even a different aptitude for magic was the very height of arrogance, and was one of the primary issues that plagued clover with its classist views. She detested that view.[break][break]
Of course, it wasn't as if Sio had shared this sentiment, and thus Verena kept that thinking to herself. Though even if the blonde had shared that belief, it wasn't as if Verena would speak her mind on it either way. She had no interest in stirring the pot.[break][break]
"Art is... very important to you, isn't it?" Verena inquired when she heard Siobhan talk about her artistic endeavors and one reason why the blonde happened to leave home.[break][break]
Verena took a moment to ponder her words only after asking. Traveling was... good. Because she spent so much time traveling, she had learned a lot. She might not have had a place to call her own, but that just meant she got to fully appreciate Clover in its entirety. The entire kingdom was hers to explore. To learn from. Perhaps as a Summoner, she was even more grateful for that.[break][break]
...But as peaceful as it was, there were still things she had to do. That only she could do. She knew that this peace would have to come to an end and that the heiress had an obligation to her family, whether they wanted to admit it or not. They were all broken. Everything was. But maybe, just maybe... she could fix that.[break][break]
"I suppose you're right," Verena said when Siobhan mentioned trying to secure a place on the tree, as well as trying to hurry back to Shizu before she drew an audience. Ultimately, Verena chose a rather inconspicuous spot--one where it wouldn't stand out, and one where one had to look hard to find it despite the intricate work put into the ornament.[break][break]
"...Perhaps when this is over, I'll show you a spot that's sure to supply you with an overabundance of muse," Verena said as she glanced towards Sio, before flying back down to the ground, not giving the blonde a moment to respond as she did so...!
[attr="class","zavenreescroll"] Hearing Ozma’s words almost made Zaven snap, but rather than trying to refute the Crimson Lion...he let him have the last word before letting Zaven know not to get hot chocolate for Hinota as it was something she was allergic to...the chocolate. Which brought him to where he was currently standing at the stall, handing over a few Yul for a thermos full of a hybrid Matcha green tea. Three cups were also provided to the captain as a gift from the people of Babel as he was the first captain to show up for the tree festival. He turned from the stall and began to walk towards where he felt Hinota’s mana signature, his knuckles were still bloody, but the cuts healed mostly and now he was just alone as per usual. The walk was both a blessing and a curse as he thought about the past, he thought about the minimal outings he had been on with Hinota, and Ozma’s words. [break][break]
The captain was, for once, stumped… [break][break]
He knew that he had messed up the first real training for Hinota...he had seen a side of her that was astonishing, and when he told her she was ready to throw herself to the guards of Balgon. She was truly stubborn for this thinking, but he admired her sense of duty...she rushed to Raque, Kikka, even followed him into that damn well and from what he also heard had accompanied Vulkan as well. Her family was a traditional piece and she was...out of place there, he remembered finding her outside of a gazebo in the royal capital. He gave her his own mantle and broke her own tradition and ended up coming to the Golden Dawn...Zaven was honestly at a loss. He wanted Hinota to be happy in the squad and with herself, but even she did not leave Kikka unscathed, a sigh would leave his lips as he would think about this some more before figuring out what he truly wanted to do. [break][break]
He would soon join Ozma and Hinota at the bench, then a familiar magic knight he had not seen since...well their mission in the jungle really. He approached at the side of Charles and waved to the group as he gave them each a mug without a word he would even be smiling. His hand holding the thermos was still dried and bloody a little as he unscrewed the cap and poured them the drink. ”This is a Babel favorite, a hybrid matcha green tea that is supposed to be a replacement for the sweet that you would get from hot chocolate. I hope you all enjoy it, including you Charles.” Zaven was left with enough in the thermos for half a cup and he just smirked as he capped the container and sat it beside Ozma. ”The decorating of the Christmas tree...a beautiful ceremony that symbolizes the revolving door of life. Putting bits and bobs on the tree to signify growth from the old and embracing the light and warmth the tree gives. I am happy that we all have got to be here together, thank you all.” He said with a soft, calm voice as he just looked up at the tree a few moments.
Post by Hinota Yuiee✾ on Dec 9, 2020 20:59:56 GMT -5
Hinota would smile weakly to her brother for a moment as she didn't want to be rude in the matter of where her lantern would be put on the tree but in honesty, she really didn't care where it was put at this point. Her eyes went back to Charles as he answered her question that he was indeed who she was enquiring about before asking a question of his own in return, she could understand how this would seem quite odd to be asked by someone that you didn't know and didn't appear to be a magic knight due to the lack of a magic knight mantle. "My name is Hinota I'm a magic knight of the Golden Dawn." she said bowing just a little to the other believing it was only right as she had at least his name and affiliated squad thanks to reading the reports before she had gone to Kikka herself to help reclaim its freedom from the daemonic tyranny. "I read the reports of Kikka before the siege to reclaim the town." she explained to the other she didn't want to say too much because her brother would already be upset at the fact she read such things but she had an inquisitive and a keenly tactical mind thanks to how she was taught when growing up. She guessed not having as many freedoms as Ozma had come in handy in that regard but she would still have rathered having the freedom to move freely.
She bit her bottom lip as she thought about how to tell the other that she had been there herself without alerting her brother as he was already out for her captain's blood and she knew it. "I met Hans, Valo and Genesis recently." she said softly her eyes showing him a sorrow that only one who had been through it would know. There was so much darkness within that town and even though it had been dispersed she knew that it would still be there for years to come due to the pain and suffering that they had been through during those two months. In honesty, she was sure that the daemon Sven had been playing the long game and that was why when inside a home a person was able to see past any and all illusions, it was clear to the doll-like mage that he was hoping to sew the seeds of malcontent within the citizens, to make them feel as if they couldn't rely on the magic knights to protect them but worst of all she was sure that he was hoping that if they had seen the groups harm any citizens that it would turn the population against the magic knights to see them as a threat and potentially start a civil war or sew the seeds for it at least. It was true these daemons were odd but they were cunning and methodical on their movements, everything had been planned and was precisely executed.
Before she could say much more she turned hearing her captain's voice as she was handed a cup being notified what it held within it but she noticed his hands and put the cup down instantly taking his hand as if to inspect it. It was true she really didn't do touch well as it wasn't something her family done but this was different, he had been hurt and she was inspecting it to see the wound. "Captain, you're hurt..." she said her voice showing clear distress for the man as it hadn't been like this before she had left the two men, her eyes going to Ozma for a moment but then turned back to checking through the dried blood to see where it came from, she was being silly she knew her brother was protective and was strong within his own rights but he wasn't suicidal nor would he do anything that could cause their family the same shame she apparently had. Seeing no wound she realised it must have been healing naturally but still seeing the blood still caused her alarm, due to her concern she forgot that blood and the likes were something that her family viewed as taboo and unclean but she was a healer so surely she would be forgiven that transgression, in honesty after the last interaction with her parents she was unsure.
"Excuse me, I'll be back shortly." she said standing bowing to the three men before she rushed off to one of the stalls on the other side of the tree. She knew Ozma was likely going to be cross with her due to her actions but her life was hers and though she was an obedient daughter to her family and even now tried to stay within the lines of their expectations, there were just things that she couldn't just ignore such as the pain and suffering of others. She wasn't a fighter even with the destructive power she knew she had within her she knew that was just something she didn't want in her life even if it could be of benefit in the future. She believed that her path was to heal and ease the pain and suffering through more peaceful acts but this also meant she would have to do taboo things at times. She started to feel faint as she thought back to hangman's hill in Raque and the man that would have died had she not allowed her hands to be covered in his blood while she was treating him "Perhaps there are times traditions can be bent without anger?" she whispered to herself still that image of the hill, all those bodies that had been eviscerated stacked up and the bloody red water that surrounded the place filled with organs and other things flooded her mind making her quickly run from the line and down an ally nearby where she found herself bent over throwing up with tears running down her cheeks. It had finally happened, the compartments had lowered and everything was washing over the poor teen at once, she was overwhelmed before but now everything hit her head on and she couldn't stop the flashes as she felt herself drowning in what had happened since the day she had made her decision to join the Golden Dawn.
[attr="class","zavenreescroll"] As he poured he heard Hinota exclaim about his wounds. He was careless and to be honest he should have done better to clean his hand but he wasn’t thinking properly. He blinked as she took his hand and then even with the blood she looked concerned. Fuck...he knew about the taboo with blood and death with her, it was like it was a setup and Ozma would probably see it as such, he looked over at Ozma and then to Charles before she let go of his hand and promptly excused herself. Zaven was about to reach out and immediately grab her, but this situation was going to look bad regardless of what just happened as he scratched the back of his head. ”Look the problem was that I had some stuff on my mind that I can’t really just say in words...not my thing. So I am sorry for whatever grief I have caused because of thi…” his scar burned before that feeling of drowning overcame him and he immediately moved his head up to look for Hinota, a moment later he looked back to the two fellow magic knights and graciously bowed as he spoke quickly. ”Something has come up and I must take my leave for a moment. Please remain here and I will return in a moment.” he said with an apologetic smile before darting off as he never dropped his mana sensing ability. [break][break]
He darted off towards where Hinota ran off to. He actually began to cry as he raced towards her location he looked around, scanning the area as he desperately needed to find her. The alley ahead gave him the strongest reading and he dashed off and was, in seconds, at her side as he looked at her and leaned against the wall. ”Hino...I...I’m sorry that I dragged you along and caused you distress. I’m sorry that you have turned your life upside down because of my involvement...I...care for you, and it’s hard for me to express this but I want you to be happy and without the stress. Tell me what I can do, what can I possibly do to…” the captain wept, feeling as if his own emotional damn had failed and he was nearly floored.
