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 Jagen Lavender♛ on Nov 30, 2020 18:31:11 GMT -5
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[attr="class","header"]The Hunt & Feast
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Kiten, the most heavily guarded fortress in Clover has more or less become a tourist trap since the Diamond-Clover war ended some time ago. Even with the scars still only being scabbed over the place is probably the second most secure facility in the kingdom aside from the actual Royal Palace. This year they were chosen to host the annual feast, but unlike the past years, they have invited everyone to partake in their own tradition...the Yule hunt. This little festival is set up so that way everyone gets to know what they are going to be eating and so that competition can be held for bragging rights. Even former Diamon army soldiers have been known to come over for the friendly competition.
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[attr="class","header2"]The gang is all here...
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...and the hunting weapons have been prepared for you, it is time to do your part and join the hunt or help prepare the food for the feast. Of course by nightfall, even with the falling temperatures, the fortress becomes as lively as the Royal Capital when there is a party for the king. Everyone is the same, there are plenty of little options to choose from; food and drink, music and even... love?
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This time of the year is about coming together and enjoying yourselves during the season of giving and forgiving. On the final day of the hunt and feast, the winner of the competition is announced and they are known throughout the common region as the "beastmaster" and while it is more honorary than official it is still something to be known for.
[attr="class","textie"]The past few months had been nothing short of a blur to him. Between coming out of Cephoh's to find the world completely changed from what he remembered, to fighting against the Daemon in Kikka. The holiday's were upon everyone now, and he had made his way back to his home of Kiten to join in the festivities. Though he hadn't come alone this time, the last time he had tried to go to an event alone he wound up not being able to interact with anyone, and thus just left early out of boredom. No this time he had thought ahead, and invited a particular red head to come with him. Though the other reason he had invited her to come with him was to see how she was holding up after Kikka. While he hadn't explicitly stated that was his intention, he did worry about her to some degree.
To him the things he had gone through in that place were normal, he had been part of battles like that before where not everything was clear cut, he was use to it. But to someone who hadn't done that for the majority of their life it could be taxing. So he hoped that by doing something festive perhaps it would take her mind off it. Plus he enjoyed her company though that was no secret to anyone. She was someone that he found fascinating, thus he liked to spend time with her. However it didn't seem like she was at the spot they had decided to meet up at for the moment. There was a light snow on the ground, which made his footsteps crunch with each step as he went to the large bonfire set up in the middle of the town. Already there were people gathering preparing for the hunt.
He wondered if he would claim the title of beastmaster this year, or if he would lost out on it? Though this was his first time actually competing for the title, he didn't care one way or the other. As he surveyed the competition, he pulled the fur cloak he was wearing tighter around his shoulders. Truth be told he didn't need it as the heat he gave off was more than enough to keep him warm along with everyone else near him, but it would look strange if he dressed as he normally would. Forgoing his Golden Dawn mantle for the time being he looked just like an average civilian which was okay with him. A large fur cloak wound around his shoulders down to his ankles, but underneath he wore his usual all black attire. His long silvery hair hung down past his shoulders, obscuring his ears.
"Hmm...I wonder how long I will be waiting for her today?" he thought quietly to himself. It seemed as if he was always waiting for her, though it didn't bother him, it was just simply part of her charm. Besides if she thought they were hunting there was no doubt in his mind that she was going to show up without weapons to use rather than borrow strange ones.
Post by Genesis Fantome on Dec 4, 2020 0:41:42 GMT -5
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Genesis Fantôme
La Poste
It may be winter, but she was not cold.
Not when her heart was colder.
After Kikka, Gen had withdrawn into herself, even more than before. What little life she had was sucked out of her, leaving behind an empty shell of a person. Had they won? Even if they did, it seemed like it had left more devastation in its wake then the initial Shattering.
Oh, Kikka.
The place of nightmares. The effects were more mental than physical, and somehow, that was more destructive. She was not the only one who had gone through that harrowing experience, but unlike others, she had nowhere to turn besides home. Even as the festive season rolled around, none of it seemed to affect the shadow mage. She still went out and did odd jobs here and there, but now they seemed so empty and meaningless. Still, her only comfort was in her blades, as those sturdy and sharp weapons were the only things she could rely on. One could even say she had an unhealthy obsession with them. If not those knives and daggers, what else could she pour her time into?
The red-haired femme exhaled, her breath coming out in white puffs in the winter air. Like usual, she was dressed in an all black outfit, though it was made of a thicker and warmer material than what she usually wore. It was plain and simple, just the way she liked it. Over that was a long coat of a deep forest green hue, high collared and protecting her neck from the chilling winds.
She still had on the pair of sturdy boots that were specially given to her. Around her wrist was a simple but elegant rose gold bracelet, also from the same sender. And of course, she never left her house without her trusty dagger by her side. She would need it today even more than any other day. She had heard that weapons would be provided, but she was still going to bring her own. She may not use it, but she was still going to carry hers.
Genesis drew her coat around her more tightly. She was not unfamiliar to the town of Kiten. It was her hometown, after all. She had grown up on the outskirts of this very town, and now the young woman walked down the streets at a leisurely pace, not looking to the right or left. Her steps were soundless and sure, barely leaving a trail of footprints behind her, despite the snow frosted ground. Her destination was the middle of town, and she glimpsed the smoke from the large bonfire they had lit. She could feel its welcomed source of heat, and instinctively drew towards it, much like the other hunters from all over town.
There by the bonfire was someone she knew. At the sight of a familiar tall figure, she made her way towards him, though her steps had not quickened, nor had they slowed. As soon as she was within eyesight, she would lift her head and give the silver-haired knight a quick nod. Had he been waiting for her? Yes, he had invited her, but that was not necessary. She would have come anyways.
Whatever she was like before Kikka, that old Genesis had slipped away, replaced by a somber and blank-faced female. It was not that she wanted to be like this, but she needed the rush, the adrenaline, the bloodlust of a predator pursuing its prey. She had heard about the competition, but she did not care too much about it. The hunt party may not necessarily need her, but that was fine.
[attr="class","textie"]He felt her approach before he saw her, as she sidled up to him next to the great bonfire, just a simple tilt of the head was all the greeting that she gave him, but that was to be expected after all they had went through. Her even more as she had to relive that nightmare twice over rather than just the once that he did. After everything he had been through he had become numb to such things over time. It wasn't that he wasn't bothered by those matters it was more that he had just learned to live it. It also helped that he had become a Magic Knight at such a young age. Going into dungeons with his friends, being forced to kill a Rogue Vice Captain, fighting in a war. All of that, and at the end of the day he had others to rely on still.
Abraxas being chief among them in helping keep him grounded, and down to earth. Along with Zaven, and Sylvester, he had people to help keep him intact, then there was his mother, and Alphonse. But as far as he knew Genesis was alone, she didn't have that same luxury that he did during those times. It was why he had extended this invitation to her since they were both from this place, he had hoped to prevent her from slinking to far away. At least in his own way he was trying to help. As the rest of the hunters gathered around, the rules were laid out before them. It was simple, they had until nightfall to bring back as much meat as they could, and the winner would be crowned the Beastmaster. There was nothing complex about it, and for that he was thankful, walking to the weapons that had been presented for them to use he grabbed a spear.
It was the weapon type he was most adept with after all, and he turned to face the Red Head.
"It looks like we are going to have our work cut out for us...When you're ready we can head out..." he spoke to her in his same dissonant tone as if he was in a far off place. He could easily win this if he decided to use his magic, but that would take the fun out of the competition in his mind. This was something that he wanted to win without using the easy way to get out. "I do not know if you are familiar with the woods...But I am...I know of a place where we can get a decent headstart." he stated to her, and pulled the cloak he was wearing tighter around him to make sure it wouldn't fall off of him.
He was faster than her on foot, and if he could carry her they could make good time, but he knew firsthand that she hated being carried, or touched by others. Those feelings he was sure were only amplified by the events in Kikka so he didn't offer instead, and just waited. There was going to be an abundance of deer this time of year, and if they were lucky they might find some of the Giant Boar that lingered within as well. Between those creatures they could easily make it to first place in his mind. As he waited he tapped his cheek, and wondered which direction they should start off in.
The fortress could hardly be called just a simple town. After all of the tourism and attention garnered by the place following the events of war, the place may as well be a city at this point. And so the young Noblewoman blended in quite well as she slipped in through the crowd, smiling calmly to herself as she made her way to the staging area for the hunt. A grand tradition that had been opened up. Of course she COULD have spent her time at the Yule celebration in the Royal Capital, or even any one of the smaller festivities littered around the kingdom. But of course she always enjoyed a bit of ...competition more than anything else. With her thick cloak, it was easy to stay nice and warm as she surveyed the weapons laid out. She considered using her own personal armament, but well, a bit of variety was always a welcome change of pace~
With a brief glance, the tall blonde woman noticed a number of other participants all present for the hunt. Citizens, huntsmen, even some other Nobles attended. But nobody had shown up in greater force than the Magic Knights from what she could see. She couldn't help but smile just a bit wider. She always did find the notion of MKs a bit amusing more than anything. And behind that gentle smile of hers, she could feel that slow, twisting, vile rush she got from seeing all of them. She had every intention of beating every single one of them at the event. Of course, hunting speciically wasn't something she was too well versed in, but she imagined that she would do well enough to surpass expectations. After all, it was merely a matter of bringing back the most impressive contribution to the feast, was it not? But pure strength was meaningless, one had to be able to FIND adequate prey as well, and kill it without ruining the carcass. A skill she doubted many of these Magic Knights had any experience in. No, she imagined there would be PLENTY of big, powerful beasts with either bad meat that wasn't really fit for eating, or just simply was riddled with holes and scorch marks.
All the same, she paused, noticing a sling and pouch. Simple, but effective. Plus it didn't run the risk of the arrow shattering and studding the meat with wooden fragments. At most she'd have to dig out a pebble or two. As she picked up the weapon, she paused, glancing over her shoulder as she noticed two individuals in particular who seemed ready to start already. She glanced out into the hissing wind of the air outside of the town proper. Out in the woods where, presumably, they would find their quarry. She couldn't help but smile a little as she made her way over to the pair, as they seemed to still be preparing. They were all geared up at least, so it looked as much. Offering a cheerful wave to them. . "Good luck!" She called out, her tone warm and good natured as she herself started to head out into the cold. She had a measured, patient pace as she headed out, her mind....wandering as she went. She hadn't expected to see any of the others actually working together, and she began to consider the prospect herself. If she ran into one of the other hunters, it might behoove her to team up to some capacity. She smiled to herself, keeping the mental note for the time being. She'd worry about that when the time came that she aCTUALLY ran into someone out in the woods.
Post by Genesis Fantome on Dec 10, 2020 23:11:19 GMT -5
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Genesis Fantôme
La Poste
In previous years, this was the one social event in which Genesis had always participated in. She did not care much about the other festivities and gatherings that happened in Kiten, besides this one. This event was the signal of the end of the yule season, and the start of a new beginning. It was also a hunt, and there was nothing more that the shadow mage loved more than a test of raw skill.
The female shifted her weight to one feet than to the other, listening to the man in charge. It seemed like the competition was about to start, and the rules were being laid out. It was the same as before: bring back as much meat as they can by nightfall, and the winner gets crowned and proclaimed with the title of “beastmaster” throughout the region. She had never gotten the said title, but that did not mean too much to her. What mattered was if she has improved year by year, and whether her aims have gotten better or worse. Between the two Kikka events, she had trained especially hard, so there was bound to be some difference between last year and this year. In a way, this annual hunt was like her own personal marker of her skill progression.
Seeing her companion go over to the table with weapons all laid out, she followed, and watched him grab a spear. She was not surprised that it was his weapon of choice. It fit him, and with his height, he would have the advantage of a far reach. She had seen him fight in Kikka, and his power was not to be undermined. However, this was an old-fashioned hunt, and she, for one, was not going to use any magic. No, this was a chance for her to see how much she has improved.
But now it was her turn to choose her weapon. The redhead took a moment to peruse over the choice of weapons. Grey eyes flickered over the blades, then settled on a pair of knives. Somehow, she always went back to those plain and simple weapons. Knives were her specialty, after all. She took one and threw it up in the air, testing its weight and how it felt in her hand. It had some weight and was well balanced, and the blade itself clean and sharp—they would do. She slipped it into her belt, then grabbed the other one and tucked it into the leather strap around her thigh. On the other side hung her dagger Chuchote, though that was more for personal security than for actual use. Unless, of course, she finds a need for it.
"Good luck!"
It had come from a tall woman, though “tall” would be an understatement. (Ajra Timor ) She was a good foot taller than the shadow mage, quite the imposing figure. A competitor, if Gen even cared about the competition. Which she did not. She had noticed that the other female had picked a sling and pouch. Interesting, but a good choice for a hunter confident in her abilities. The red-haired femme gave the blond a short nod, acknowledging her and silently wishing her the same out in the field.
"It looks like we are going to have our work cut out for us...When you're ready we can head out..."
Another nod. She was ready to go whenever he was. She had never hunted with someone else before. It had always been a solitary pastime, so this could be interesting. Then he was talking about a place where they could get a headstart. She had a few spots she liked, but learning about new spots was always a plus.
“That spot up on the hill? Or the one near the stream?” Regardless, she would follow in whatever direction he was aiming for. She had to take two steps for his one, and he was much faster than she was. However, she did not try to push herself to go faster. Instead, she kept her pace steady, her footsteps light and quiet, just like a passing shadow. There would be time for her to push herself later, whether the need arose.
Gen could hear the other hunters spreading out the area, all bounding to their own favorite spots. She grimaced at all the ruckus they were making. The wildlife were plentiful this year, so they should have no problem finding their prey. But how would they find any if they were so loud and scared them all away? But that was their problem. She had her own agenda, her own personal mission in this hunt.
"When you spend so long trapped in darkness, you find that the darkness begins to stare back."
Kiten...
Just heading there was enough to get a bit at Hans' nerves. This town resides on the eastern border...right next to the Diamond Kingdom...his true "home". It's been many years since he and his mother escaped from there, but the wounds were still fresh, especially now that the merc was heading this close. Hans continued along the trail until he reached the entrance to the town. The dark mage stopped and just looked forward, pondering if he should really do this. He then looked behind him at the trail he traveled as if he was really considering going back. A visible sigh escaped his lips as he turned around, planning to just leave. But then he heard various voices and looked back at the town. He noticed the people who were out and about as well as the festive yule themed decorations...along with the hunt related stuff.
Right...the real reason he came to this town wasn't to conquer any of his demons or dwell on the past. He wanted to participate in the annual hunt, have a little fun. The merc turned to face the entrance again, but this time he took a step forward and went into town. He wasn't going to let his nerves get the best of him...especially with how far he has come.
Hans walked through town, appearing a bit cautious still as he looked around. It was like any other town here in Clover with no real difference. It helped ease the man up some, especially with the festive atmosphere. He then headed over to where the hunt is taking place, or at least where the weapons are being handed out to those who wish to take one. Different types of folks were hanging around the area, all of them appearing to be here to partake in this festive hunting as well. Some were still getting weapons while others headed off into different directions, some in groups, pairs while others went alone.
The merc stepped up to one of the stands giving out weapons and started to quietly browse a bit. "Oi, what'll it be, lad?" The burly looking man behind this stand spoke up, causing Hans to look over at him instead. The man grinned at Hans who in return nodded before pointing at a wooden spear with a stone tip. "I'll take the spear." Of course Hans had his greatsword sheathed on his back, but he wanted to make it challenging...like old times. Plus he doubted that the meat of whatever he slays with his sword would still be any good...
"Ay, great choice!" the man claimed before tossing the spear over to Hans which he was able to catch. "Happy hunting." The burly guy said, giving Hans a nod. "Thanks." the merc took a look at the spear before looking around to see where most folks went. His dark eyes set on a forest nearby that didn't seem to have anyone head off into. That's where the merc was going to head. With destination planned out, Hans headed off, entering the woods.
Now taking on a more stealthy demeanor, Hans sneaked through the woods, making sure to make as little noise as possible as he scanned his surroundings. This brought back memories of how Hans' late mentor would bring him out for a bit of hunting. It was used as his training, and after that man's death...it ended up being the merc's primary source for survival. Hans continued to move until he found himself approaching an opening, and stopped himself from entering as his vision set on a...boar.
The boar appeared to be eating, its ears twitching a bit and tail swaying, unaware of the dark-haired predator stalking it. Hans furrowed his brows, silently observing the animal. It was facing away from the merc, not giving him a good shot, and it didn't look like it was going to shift positions anytime soon. With that, Hans slowly decided to move, attempting to get himself into a better position as he prepared his spear. As the merc moved, he accidentally brushed up on some leaves, and the boar immediately rose its head up. Hans stood completely still and gripped his spear, not taking his eyes off of the wary beast. After a few tensed seconds...the boar went back to eating and Hans relaxed a little. Hans started to move once again until he found the right position, and stopped, now having a clear view of the boar's side. The merc readied his spear, focusing on where he wanted to throw it. His aim was to go for its vitals, take it down in one clean strike.
The dark mage to a gentle step forward moved the spear back a little...
...and threw it!
The spear went soaring towards the boar until it hit its mark, striking near its shoulder, and piercing through its flesh. With one dying squeal, the boar fell over, twitching a bit before going completely still...
The hit was a success, and Hans let out a breath that he didn't realize he was holding in before walking over to his lifeless prey with a light, satisfied smile on his face. No magic, no ridiculously big sword...Looks like Hans still knows a thing or two about the hunt.
[attr="class","hansheader"]N O T E S
The H U N T
[attr="class","hansheader"]S P E L L S
Cool spell descriptions here
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WC 885 || TOTAL WC 885
TAGS @people ITEMS Cosmic Blessing, Raven's Grasp PERKS List 'em here
[attr="class","textie"]Genesis began to spout off potential areas that they could be going to, and he tapped his cheek looking at her perhaps in his own form of amusement. Shaking his head at all of her notions he simply rushed off, making sure to keep his speed at a pace that she wouldn't be left far to behind him. He gave a brief wave to the tall woman that had wished them both luck, and then he was gone. Fur cloak wafting in the air behind him. It was apparent that he was a man on a mission, and the path of the forest that they were taking was one that had hardly seen any use. Despite the heavy snow on the ground sparse foliage could still be seen on the ground peeking through the white curtains.
"It is a place that I come to occasionally, you will see..." Was all the information that he gave her.
Soon enough after what would feel like an eternity of trudging through the snow the trees within the forest would cluster closer together forming what appeared to be a protective shell. Vulkan stepped through the small clearing, and within was what one could call a small oasis. It had crystal clear water that you could see all the way to the bottom of, and the trees here appeared to be more vibrant than the rest of the forest despite all the snow. For now there were no animals here for them to hunt, but there were plenty of tracks around to signify that they came here often. It was peaceful here, and unless someone knew the way it was almost impossible to find. Plopping down on the ground with little regard for himself he stretched out, and just looked out over the water.
"It is a good place, and we can relax while everyone else expends all of there energy." he stated rather easily, for someone who seemed to train so much this was a rather lazy tactic, if hunting was really his objective at this point no one could know. Though instead of saying more he stared out at the water just enjoying the scenery. "Gen...I am curious...I know you would have probably come regardless of an invitation from me. So why are you hunting today?" It was a simple question, from a man who often seemed very aloof, and emotionally distant. Even the tone of his voice lacked any passion, and he rarely pried into others personal matters.
Whether it caught her off guard or not he wouldn't know, he was just curious as to her reasoning. If she told him nothing he wouldn't ask anymore, and if she did tell him, he would listen. After all she was one of the few people that he had met since he had come back from his absence that he felt any form of kinship with. After all she had been through he was concerned, as he considered a friend, and it had been a long time since he had made a friend, outside of Zaven, and Sylvester. He wasn't terribly sociable despite what others might think.
Post by Genesis Fantome on Dec 20, 2020 21:19:46 GMT -5
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Genesis Fantôme
La Poste
The red-haired woman was sorely tempted to roll her eyes when the Golden Dawn knight did not respond to her questions of where they were heading. Well, he did answer, but purposely kept it vague so it was not really an answer at all. How maddening. But then again, she had given him a similar treatment before, so it was only fair that she should be swallowing her own bitter medicine every now and then, too.
Gen let out an inaudible sigh and followed, wordlessly keeping pace with the man. As they pressed deeper into the forest, her dark forest-green cloak fluttered behind her, the only sound from the shadow mage. The snow on the ground was barely touched—a smooth sprinkling of white on the sleepy earth. She inhaled deeply, almost drinking in the cold winter air. It was so crisp and clean, it felt like one could slice and shatter through it with a blade.
They entered a sort of clearing, and even though she did not say anything, Gen was impressed. The place was beautifully vibrant and rich with life even at this time of the year, and the trees looked different somehow. Not just in the way they grew, which formed almost like a fence of sorts, but also the color of them. There was even a source of water here, and the femme bent down to test it. Her fingers trailed lightly over the still surface, and she watched as her motions stirred the water, leaving ripples at its wake. It was as crystal clear as it was cold.
Then Vulkan plopped himself down on the ground, and she raised a dubious eyebrow at him. “Are we just going to sit here and wait for the prey to show up?” Apparently so, by the manner in which he responded. Goodness, she came here to hunt, not just sit around. Or was this yet another test on patience? Well, if she could meditate for hours at end, she could surely do this.
She let out an insufferable sigh, then settled herself down into a comfortable position a few strides away from her companion, legs in a criss-cross position. Her eyes fluttered close, and she slowly let out a long breath. Her spine straightened, and she found her center. For a few moments, she simply sat there, listening to the small noises of nature, until Vulkan decided to break the silence.
"Gen...I am curious...I know you would have probably come regardless of an invitation from me. So why are you hunting today?"
An interesting question, but she did not see why she would not answer it. “A personal test for myself. To see if I’ve become better.” A simple response for a simple question. At least, in her mind it was simple. “This waiting around isn’t helping my score much, just so you know.” Her words were more on the biting edge, but at this point, Vulkan should be somewhat used to it by now. If not...well, he soon will be. Her eyes now opened, shifting to land their piercing grey gaze on the man. “Why are you in this hunt? Or is this just an excuse to interrogate me?”
A more unsettling thought came to her. What was his intention in bringing her here? Sure, it might be for the hunt, but if they were really participating, they would be out and about seeking after their prey. Was this his way of dragging her into a secluded spot where no one knew for some other reasons besides the hunt? If it was the latter, she already had an escape plan, and her trusty dagger was never far from her reach. Though she was concerned, the shadow mage was not afraid. She was confident in her skills and abilities, and knew they would not fail her.
There was a faint rustling, and she stilled. The faintest crinkle of a smile tugged on the edge of her lips.
[attr="class","textie"]The area they were in was peaceful, and as he listened to her words, her talk to see if she was better, he could empathize with her to a degree. At her words of him wanting to get her alone to interrogate her, perhaps that was part of his reasoning, though he wouldn't admit it, or deny it. At the moment he was just enjoying the peaceful scenery listening to her get snippy with him, but as always he didn't seem very bothered. The silver haired mage was pondering something, or so it would appear he wasn't in any hurry to complete the hunt since they had all day. It did last until nightfall however, but he did turn his gaze to her, and tilt his head in a curious manner.
"What does it mean for you to be better?" There was genuine curiosity in his words as he stayed sitting, and looked out across the water. "Does it mean to have more raw strength than before? To have more empathy towards others perhaps?" He said the first two things that came to his mind when others spoke of improving themselves. Did they just attain new power, or were they more understanding. "There are lots of ways to be better." A simple nod of his chin before he turned his gaze to the signs of potential prey.
They were not alone in the clearing came what appeared to be a trio of animals. A buck, a doe, and their fawn, it appeared they had come here to get something to drink in the small meadow. Vulkan watched them slowly approach the crystal lake the three were wary of the two humans. Despite the fact that they were hunting he figured they could let them pass, he wasn't going to harm a family. Standing up he began to walk off.
"It appears no suitable prey is going to show up here for the time being...And I don't think it'd feel right to make them prey..." was all he said to her, but if she moved to hunt them he wouldn't stop her. After all everyone was different, and he wouldn't judge her regardless. "As for why I am on this hunt...That is a good question...I was hoping perhaps my Mother, and Alphonse would be here. They are not however, and I've lost their trail for the time being. So I thought rather than wallowing alone, I would invite you to attend with me, and we could at least have company while we deal with our respective issues." He shrugged a bit as he began to take her to one of the many clearings that were within the forest, this one was rife with Boar. "I am told misery loves company.", leveling his spear he narrowed his eyes as he waited for the perfect time to pounce on one of the overgrown pigs.
Every muscle in his body was taut like a coil ready to be released as he slinked into the snow, and slowly moved around to cause as little noise as possible. WC: 518 TWC: 2140
Post by Genesis Fantome on Dec 30, 2020 3:59:14 GMT -5
[googlefont="Lobster"][googlefont="Be Vietnam"][googlefont="Shadows Into Light Two"]
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Genesis Fantôme
La Poste
“What it means to be better?” She echoed. His question was pointed and simple—straightforwardness was something she could appreciate. “Raw strength...not necessarily. My body has its limits, so either I find another area to excel in...or find a way to break those limits.” She paused a moment in thought, then shrugged carelessly. “It depends. If I can aim well and hit true the first time, then I’d save myself the trouble of a physical fistfight.” She stretched her legs out from her criss-cross position, feeling the muscles strain, then relaxed them.
Then he mentioned empathy, and her mouth twisted instinctively in distaste. But then she quickly smoothed it back down, as did her tone. “Empathy? Emotions only get in the way of a fight.” Her tone was dry but clear. Her finger was idly tracing the blade of one of the knives she had picked earlier. The sharp edge caught on her finger, and a line of crimson appeared. However, she did not seem to mind the cut, and only looked intently at it. Bien, it’s sharp.“Empathy does not help my aim or my skills.” She said shortly, with an air of finality. Then she spat on her finger, washing away the drop of blood.
It was then when there was the sound of other movements, and the adrenaline started kicking in. Her senses heightened and narrowed, as she attempted to ‘feel’ out where the prey was. Yes, there. Several figures stepped into the clearing, a family of deer it seemed. The Magic Knight did not make a move towards them and even started walking away. He explained his reasonings; however, she was not going back empty-handed. She was not going to miss any opportunities. In addition, from her perspective, the merciless world always seemed to be on the hunt for her. So at least for tonight, she could play the role of the hunter.
And that was why she let her two knives fly, one towards the buck and one towards the doe.
The blades struck straight and true, each through the chest and through the heart. The female deer had dropped straight down, a clean shot. But the buck had reared and attempted to charge at its attacker. However, it only took a few steps before the embedded knife dug deeper in, and the male deer stumbled and dropped down into a heap on the ground.
As for the fawn, it had been too frozen in shock to bolt, and stood there trembling all over with its spindly legs. The baby deer’s eyes were wide with fright, but Gen swiftly advanced on it, grasping onto the back of its neck firmly to prevent escape. “They should have killed me, too.” She whispered. She drew out the knife from the doe, then used the same knife to plunge it through the little one’s heart. The body shuddered in a wordless cry, then the light of life faded from its glossy black eyes. “La mort vous unira.” The shadow mage murmured, as a proper send-off to the dead.
At least the family were together in death...unlike hers.
Her hand loosened, and the lifeless body fell to the ground. Did killing something feel good? Yes. Did it lessen the bitterness of her past? No. Regardless, she gathered the three bodies up into a heap, picking up the pair of knives from the warm carcasses and wiping them clean on her pants. She could retrieve the kills later. For now, she slinked in behind the disappearing form of the knight, until she sensed them nearing a herd of wild boars. This would mean more of a fight, and her steel grey eyes gleamed at the thought.
Vulkan had been speaking about finding his mother and someone else. The friend he had been talking about, perhaps? Either way, it seemed like. “You don’t care about the title?” She raised an eyebrow ever so slightly towards his direction, though it was unsure if he even saw it. “Only one can win...but lucky for you, I don’t care about the competition. You can take the three back there as your kills.”
But now her attention sharpened and narrowed towards their prey. Too much noise and it would startle them. Startle them, and start a stampede. Stampede would mean excessive noises, and would in turn startle other animals. She noticed that the tall man had taken his position, and was waiting for the right time to pounce. The femme did likewise, aiming to slink to the other side of the clearing. That way, when he attacked, hopefully the herd of pigs would run towards her direction and she could pin a few down before they all ran into the thick underbrush. That was the plan in her mind, and all she did now was to wait for the knight to strike first.
Post by Valo Stark✾ on Jan 4, 2021 22:16:13 GMT -5
Valo Stark
"Don't need a reason to seek strength."
Competition.
Valo relished it. He reveled at the thought of it, although quietly to himself. As a magic knight he was given invites to all three of the Yule festives. Another ball which sounded to similar to the Spirit Ball he went to, that just wasn't really his scene despite actually enjoying it and meeting Alyssa. He wasn't asked to personally attend this time, so he was able to avoid that. The next one was the tree decorating, which just sounded like a complete bore to the fire mage. So he would not be attending that one either. But what did catch his attention was the Yule Festival Hunt and Feast.
Mainly because there was competition involved, a hunting contest of sorts. And Valo could not give up the opportunity to compete and claim a victory. He was a naturally fierce competitive young man, always wanting to prove himself. Always looking to better himself, always looking to prove why he is one of the best. This Yule Hunt was a perfect opportunity to do so.
An eerily smile was on his face as he walked through Kiten, he was dressed for the occasion. A warm long black coat with black fur on the hood, his entire outfit was all black. No colors at all, when hunting one needed to match with the shadows not work against them. Valo actually had quite the experienced hunting background, growing up he had to learn to hunt to feed him and his mother when she was low with money. Not only that when he was getting into trouble and involved in gangs, he was the best hunter among all his childhood delinquents. With the added hunting tips, he got from his old master Valo was quite the hunter. His skills might be a little rusty, since he hadn't had to hunt for a while now. But he was sure it would be no issue what so ever.
There was a lot of people here for the hunt as well, civilians, mercs, even a lot of magic knights. Though he was a magic knight himself he doubted a lot of them would actually be a challenge. A good amount of magic knights were a bit entitled and didn't have to want for much. But not Valo he was always hungry for more victories. Now was the time to focus on the task at hand, he wasn't really paying to much mind to the everyone around him. He didn't really care for spotting any familiar faces, that would just be a distraction. He didn't need that right now.
The rules for this hunting competition were vague, not really clear on what could be used and what could not be used. Were spells allowed? How bout your weapons? Not to much information. But that was fine, the fire mage would play it pretty close to actual hunting until things got way out of hand out there. Since they were handing out weapons, it was probably best he used those for now. He did bring his own weapon with him, not to help with the kills but Hinokagutsuchi had many uses other than just attacking. He had the silver staff strapped to his back so he could make use of both his arms and hands.
The weapon he took was a metal spear, a good long reach. Good for range and close up hunting, and strong enough to pierce through boar with thick hides. Plus also reusable was another plus. The long spear was Valo's hunting weapon of choice, his second the typical set of bow and arrow. You couldn't go wrong with a decent weapon that was silent and had tons of range. Incredibly useful for deer and elks. To useful not to use. He swung the bow over his shoulder, and the quiver holding his arrows attacked to his belt at his waist. He needed nothing else, so he was off using his speed that was increased thanks to his lantern. He dashed past some of the competition into the woods.
Valo wouldn't stick to the ground though, oh no the true advantage point was using the trees. Having the high ground in a hunt was much to beneficial, it kept him out of sight from his prey and gave him a near bird's eye view of his targets. He used his speed to make a pretty good distance between him and the others, while running towards the lakes and rivers. When getting near he started to slow down his pace as to not make to much noise. Then started to climb a nearby tree, with his speed and strength getting to a high point was as easy as breathing. He then moved silently from tree to tree, only landing his foot on very thick branches to not risk noise or falling to startle his prey. So the hunt began.
Scent Valo learned was a very crucial part of hunting, Deer, elk, reindeer all got spooked by human scent. They knew it, they could smell it and often tried to avoid it. But despite all that it could be used as an advantage. Of course before a hunt, the hunter would do his best to try and mask his scent. Which Valo did, but that could only do so much. What his old teacher taught was using the cross-winds and human scent to bring the deer to you. The winds were coming from the north, meaning scent would travel from north to south. Valo took a mental note of this, and positioned himself on a tree that was more north west of the large woods and looking out towards the east. His position was off the trail of the winds about a few yards, so no scent would traveling south. He just had to wait a few before a family of unsuspecting deer, came traveling from the south going up towards the northern part of the woods. His scent was to far off to spook the deer, giving him the perfect opportunity to strike.
He waited patiently until the perfect time, his bow and arrow already drawn. Pulling back the string with right hand, his left hand holding the bow and other arrows to make quick use of them. He aimed at the deer in front, so the others would have to turn back giving him the opportunity for more kills. He let the arrow fly hitting it's mark right in the head, the next few milliseconds had to be extremely quick and precise. He let another arrow fly at it's next mark just with the use of his fingers, positing the arrows. He followed this pattern and managed to hit four of the five deer, he was aiming for all of them. But four deer for now was enough, hunting deer was more of a patient game. He didn't have time to do that all day.
Now was the time to hunt for some boar, wild boar at that.
Wild boar was easier game to hunt, and winning was probably about numbers and of course the quality of the kills. Valo checked the hits on the deer, all headshots and hits on the neck. One of them was hit on the lower chest area, but that was fine as well it didn't really diminish the kill. Now he needed an idea to carry these kills, it would take to much time to bring them back and continue the hunt. So instead the fire mage summoned his golems, Masshiro. Just using one for now he placed each of his kills on top of his golem and commanded it to take the skies above out of the way. He didn't want to use magic to help with hunting, but he needed some way to carry what he killed already.
Now was the time to move on, quickly he set out to the other parts of the woods. Keeping his eyes out for the tracks, deer tracks and boar tracks were similar but a trained eye could spot the difference. Boar tracks were much wider, because fo the bigger hooves. When he noticed the tracks on the ground became a bit bigger and the ground was muddier he started to slow down. Boar had really good hearing and noses, but they were aggressive animals. Instead of a group of boar running from a lone threat they must likely faced it head on. But Valo still had to be smart about this, they would only attack in groups and not alone. So trying to bring one closer would lead to nothing but failure, he needed to lead a group of them to him.
He took to the high trees again and looked out following a large amount of trails to a nearby group of boar. About five of them, three of them rather large the other two smaller but still deadly. Valo slowly made his way back to the ground, landing quietly to not startle them a few meters away. The best way to bring aggressive boars to you was, baiting calls. Valo used a Predator call that would always cause boars to break from their cover and react aggressively. He used this call in short bursts, and stood idly by a tree as a the five boars started to rush towards him.
Name of Spell: 真っ白(Masshiro / Pitch White) Spell Element: Fire Spell Rank: Intermediate Mana Cost: 20 | 10 Type of Golem: Balanced Applicable Perks:Puppet Master -
Puppet Master: This Perk allows your Golems to start with a bonus of +3 to all of its Stats. At Grand Rank this bonus increases to +5. If this Perk is applied to a Balanced Golem these bonuses increase to +5 and +10 instead.
Description: Masshiro is an all white long dragon, that Valo can summon to aid him in different ways. At full length of 6 meters long, Masshiro is a rather long and very slender looking golem. Masshiro is capable of flight, aiding Valo in the air as well. While it may not look as viscous as Valo's other golems it is just as strong, and aggressive. Masshiro is able to use it's arms, claws, feet, tail, horns, jaws and it's entire body to attack whatever Valo directs it too. When attacking it's jaws, claws, horns and tail are covered in flames causing at rank fire damage to whatever they hit. Masshiro can be used for transportation following the transportation guidelines for intermediate ranked golem spells. Carrying up to two people at a time moving at speeds of 10 m/s. They fully respond to commands given by it's user through a mana connection and also verbally.
[attr="class","textie"]Her actions caused him to quirk a brow, but nothing more he understood where she was coming from, and to deal with such things would take time, but he didn't want her to stray to a far darker path. Though whether she would go down a darker road, or not he didn't know, but he could at least give her some company to deter it. Though he was quiet now as he stalked his prey, and with his spear level, he bolted forward catching the boar off guard with how fast he was, and impaling it upon his spear, felling the creature in one swift stroke. Of course this caused the others to rush away in panic towards his companion, as she lay in wait. After she felled her fill, he would heft the meaty one that he had stabbed across his shoulders, and begin to walk back to the town.
"No...Keep your kills, I'm more interested in eating than trying to win some competition." he yawned a bit lazily at her as he walked off. Knowing that she wouldn't be far behind him he looked up at the sky, and realized how much time had actually passed as the sun was high in the sky signaling that it was at least noon. Thanks to what he had gotten, and she did not to mention the other contestants they were going to eat heartily tonight. "You know...Someone asked me to teach them how to get stronger...It was a strange request as I have only trained one other person, and even that was not much. Perhaps you can meet them sometime when you are not busy..." he spoke absently before breaking through the tree's to the center of the town.
Walking over to the large bonfire he set down his large boar, and then helped Gen place her kills next to his whether she wanted the help or not she was getting it. After all she had more animals than he did, so it only made sense. After confirming them to each of them respectively Vulkan sat down on one of the newly furbished log benches. While they were hunting it seemed the townsfolk had gotten tired of standing, and pulled out some seating for everyone else.
"Hmmmm I wonder how that large woman we saw is doing on her own hunt..." he mused to her doing his best to not get caught up in his thoughts. It had been some time since Kikka, and he was trying to figure out how to act normal once again, though he was already readjusting from that awful place. The memories still flooded him from time to time, mainly the memory of the little girl Nanami, and what had befallen her at the hands of the townspeople who had lived there. He often wondered if he should just wipe the entire city off the face of the map for killing a pregnant woman, and an unborn child. It would be easy for him to do, but the thought of two wrongs don't make a right kept him from attempting to avenge the two. A small sigh left his lips as he remembered the tea party he had, and how nice it had been.
Post by Hania Ravencrest✾ on Jan 6, 2021 21:14:43 GMT -5
Vulkan - 10,000 yul and 3 free spells of ranks Valo Stark✾ - Perk (players choice) and NA "Spirit of the hunt" Ajra Timor - NA "huntress" and 10 spell points
(@morty2 and Genesis Fantome as you took part elsewhere it wouldn't be fair for you to benefit from additional secret Santa rolls.)
