In this world, Magic is Everything. All people, all races, are granted with the power to perform mystical and magical feats via grimories, mystical tomes granted to each and every child on their 15th birthday. Those blessed by the mana can have their names written down in legend.
Shattered Grimoires is the work of the mind(s) of Ardere & Shattered Grimoire's staff. All characters and content are copyright their creators, and may not be replicated without their creators' permission. Black Clover is owned by Yuki Tabata and published by Viz Shonen Jump. All images belong to their original owners. The theme you are currently viewing was made by Eliza of ElizaCodes exclusively for Shattered Grimoires.
Post by Alexander Valentine on Apr 30, 2020 0:58:41 GMT -5
The town of Hage, known for many things such as: an odd tasting potato like food they sell here , the massive demon skull that is a landmark from a battle long ago, and the headquarters of some magic knights being nearby. It’s a quiet little town with not much going on aside from the outside and inside of it. The war took a lot from its people and recovery has been slow on all fronts as people were moving around quite a bit. There's an orphanage, a few shops and the residents are friendly enough to most who come by. It was as close to peaceful as one can get in the forsaken region at least as it does have trouble coming to them sometimes.
That is to say until a young man decided to swing by and cause some trouble. A bounty of food was his target as he bolted and made his sly getaway from the owners who wanted their produce back. Many turns and he thought he would have lost them but to his luck he ran into another young man. All he did was bump into him as he ran for his life...but that was his mistake as the young man displayed lightning reflexes as he quickly caught up to him. 'Outta the way!' was the only words that were said before the young man in question had a shine in his eyes.
The entire exchange lasted about a few moments before the thief found himself buried into the ground. His bounty confiscated and his butt thoroughly kicked. Residents took him in but their goods were never recovered; most of them took their anger out on the thief as every word out of his mouth sounded like a lie.’Someone else took it’ he pleaded as he was taken down the town road where everyone can hear him. In the distance a young man stood on the roof with his bounty of food and decided to find a place to have lunch. He decided quickly and made his way towards the location in question; making sure to not get caught.
“Of all places to settle down in, it had to be this place”, the young man sits on the head of the demon skull with a bounty of bread and fruit he stole from the thief. He bites into the fresh bread with glee as he admires the view he has as he sits atop the massive monument. A rather bored expression paints his face as he sat there wondering what to do today. He lays down and stares at the vast sky above as he closes his eyes to try and take a nap. Its been only been a short while since he got his grimoire and began his travels but nothing interesting as of late. Taking on random thugs on the street does little to satisfy his urge to fight and he doesnt know where to go to find a challenge. The feeling of being stuck is a apt word for what he is feeling right now. So the most he can do is sleep it off and hope an answer strikes him like a bolt of lightning.
"Not that I should be complaining...this is perhaps the best place to nap", he remarked to himself as he slowly started to doze off.
Artemis had been wandering around the Hage, looking for the old man that sold her the basket of blueberries yesterday. The fruit had been delicious, and was perfect in every sense of the word. Artemis herself had been enamoured by the taste and texture, unsure whether the fruit itself was divine, or just out of this world. No farmer had that good of a harvest this year, and Artemis was very certain this farmer had used some type of magic to help his bounty. Of course, she could not blame the man. Life was hard here in the Forsaken Region, and one had to do their best to make sure they get to eat the next day. If the farmer had some magic that helped him grow very delicious fruits, then who was he to judge. After all, one had to use everything they had to their advantage, and if one had magic that can help their livelihood, it was only fair that they could use it to their advantage. Even Artemis knew her magic was geared towards combat, and therefore sought to play fire as a Magic Knight. She was doing what her magic did best, after all. [break][break]
Speaking of, as she wandered around Hage, she noticed a commotion happening just around the bend. As a Magic Knight, she was very curious as to what was happening. She supposed she had a duty to uphold. After all, she was a Green Mantis Magic Knight, and was based in Hage. In a sense, this was the territory that they had to look after the most. They were, in a sense, hosted by the town. It was only right and fair that Artemis helped out the people who might be in need. And from the sounds of it, there definitely was something horrid going on.[break][break]
“What is going on here?” Artemis finally stopped the beating that the townspeople were giving a young man. He looked to be black and blue, and sort of comical in the way he squinted at Artemis’ figure. Artemis herself bent forward, before gripping the man’s shoulder in an aggressive manner, “a thief?” To which the townspeople nodded their assent. However, it seems that the thief did not have the goods that they had pilfered. Interestingly so, really. How could the thief, who had just moments ago held the items, had suddenly lost everything. Of course, the first line of thought was an accomplice. That was usually the case after all. An accomplice that helped divert the attention away, making their quick get-away with the goods as the townspeople looked to punishing the other one who looked to be quite innocent. However, from the looks of it, this thief did not have an accomplice. The robbery was too sloppy, and the man did not even look like they had enough brain cells to actually pull off a heist. No, it was most likely something else. Possibly, a third party that took the items from the man, before escaping himself. Not an accomplice, but rather another thief.[break][break]
“Take this man to the city jail. He should receive fair trial and punishment.” Artemis nodded, as the townspeople finally got their senses back. It seems their rage blinded them, especially when one of their own had been robbed. They were poor people, and the little they had they treasured. Even in a poor community, there was camaraderie, and this was definitely one of them. [break][break]
“Let’s see.” Artemis finally reached out her senses. She could see traces of the mana signature of the person who had been here. But they left. “The Skull?” Artemis quirked her eyebrow at that. The direction only led to the skull, after all. Artemis shrugged, and quickly made her way towards the only mana signature she can sense at her destination.[break][break]
The run was quick, painless, and quite uneventful. Though, Artemis made sure to suppress her presence as she made it to the top of the demon’s skull. From what she saw, it was a young man who had the pilfered items. Dressed interestingly, though he doesn’t seem like the criminal kind. However, Artemis would be on guard. Her grimoire was already glowing as she stepped towards the young man.[break][break]
“I see you’re enjoying those stolen goods already.” Artemis announced her presence, though made no move to do anything. “Was it out of hunger? Or maybe just for the heck of it?” Artemis continued. Stealing was something she was not a stranger to, and in this region, it was the most common crime. “So? Which is it?” She urged, wanting a response before deciding what to do with this young man.
Post by Alexander Valentine on Apr 30, 2020 2:21:23 GMT -5
As he was about to fall asleep on top of the skull, it seemed someone found him and their voice sounded rather apprehensive to say the least. Do they know what he did or are they assuming he did something wrong? Either case it seems they weren't here to just chat as slowly opened his eyes to see a grimoire already glowing and ready.
Alexander can already feel the immense pressure on him already as she gets closer. He slowly got up onto his feet and turned around. Green cape, dark hair, serious expression, he can make an educated guess on who she is but her demeanor is explaining who she is through action. But he wasn't exactly in the mood to talk at the moment due to the fact that he was still waking up from his groggy state. It was already a dangerous situation and being half awake ain't helping get his chances in explaining himself
Maybe returning the bread was a better idea than helping himself to a free meal. But then again the bread was going to waste already and the thief had been caught so it ain't exactly on him to return the goods. The options were weighted as he looked at the lady straight on without a shred of fear or anger on his face.
“Hunger and I didn't steal the stuff, if you want the culprit then he’s at the town” his hands were up as he looked all around him for an escape route. ‘Maybe I can run away and use the hill to help my speed? Or maybe flying off and hoping she doesn't have any way to catch up’ he thought as he was staring at a magic knight in the face of danger. He didn't know what they were capable of but they seemed more like guards with books than anything else.
It was then an idea hatched in his head that can possibly help him get out of this situation in a few seconds. But it was going to be real stupid if he doesn't do it right and he needs to time in right. He’d go over it in his head and take deep breaths to calm himself before speaking again.
“I’m not the type to steal from the people if that's what you're thinking, I was out for a walk and then a dude bumped into me. He started the fight and then I kicked his butt since he wasn't that tough and here we are now.”, he keeps his hands up as he slowly inched his feet backwards. Jumping off is a good last resort but let's see how this lady and if it backfires then that's on him.
“Unless you’re not convinced and all of this doesn't help my case...”
Artemis watched the young man reply, and truth be told, she could have guessed his answer. Her question was something often reflected back in the society around the Forsaken Region. Stealing because of hunger was rampant, and it had been a problem that the towns had been adamantly complaining about to the King and the nobility in general. And then, the Magic Knights get involved, which at the end of the day just becomes even more of a mess. If handled by the wrong Magic Knights squad, those caught thieving become prisoners, and are tried by the court very harshly. The wrong Magic Knights saw the problem of thievery as some sort of capital sin, taking the hard work of someone else to benefit your own. In a sense, Artemis supposed they were right. However, their sense of morality was something that Artemis could never aspire to. It was flawed, and something that should not at all be taken for granted when it came to the people of the Forsaken Region.
[break][break]
Stealing is a crime, yes, but it also meant something else.
[break][break]
Artemis watched the young man move back a bit while explaining his situation. “I would not do that if I were you.” Artemis warned. “If you think you are fast, I can guarantee that I am faster.” While there were faster mages within the Clover Kingdom, Artemis was definitely one of the quick ones in terms of raw speed without magic involved. Last time she had been challenged by up and coming Magic Knights saw her out run them by three fold. It had been an interesting day when those new Green Mantises had been left in the dust, with their jaws slacked and eyes wide. Artemis Somerset was definitely a fast mage. “Besides, why would you run.” Artemis finally shrugged, “it’s not like I am arresting you.”
[break][break]
With that, Artemis finally sat on the denon’s skull just beside the basket of goods that had been pilfered. She wouldn’t touch he contents, only taking a glance to see that it had indeed been eaten.
[break][break] “Stealing. It is a crime that’s punishable by law.” Artemis continued, “And you’re technically an accomplice, having continued the act of thievery after the fact, and not returning the goods.” Artemis supposed that was how the town would charge this young man if she brought him in. “However, I believe your story.” [break][break]
While Artemis can be very cruel to her enemies, she can be very understanding to the people around her. This was especially so with the population around the Forsaken Region. While some of the Magic Knight squad can be harsh to petty thieves, the Green Mantises were lenient. Artemis supposed that it was because a lot of the Green Mantis members were once commoners as well, and even a lot of them were once common thieves and cutthroats. The lives of those who lived in the Forsaken Region was not unknown to the Green Mantises. They knew the hardships in life, and they understood just how cruel the world can be sometimes. Artemis herself had seen first hand just how desperate some of the poor folk can get when it comes to basic sustenance. And at the end of the day, even stealing was worth risking for these people. It was not as if they wanted to steal, but rather, they had no other choice but to steal. It was either that or starve to death, and truly, that was an easy decision to make. [break][break]
“Tell me then, since I’m affording you this favour, who are you?” Artemis started as she gestured for the young man to sit beside her, “Running isn’t going to help you, so might as well join me.” She shrugged, “I’m assuming you have some sort of background? A job?” Most people would have some form of occupation, though low paying it may be. Artemis herself let the grimoire that had been menacingly floating beside her close. She replaced it once more in the satchel hanging on her right hip. Artemis then turned her attention back at the young man, by this time hoping that he had taken her offer. “Definitely a better deal talking to me than going to jail, hm?” She metaphorically nudged the young man to answer her questions, hoping to see if she can actually help him in some way. Better that than for him to go back into a life of stealing, after all. The next time it might not be her, and another Magic Knight might just not be too merciful.
Post by Alexander Valentine on Apr 30, 2020 23:46:57 GMT -5
Alexander halted his movements the moment the lady caught on. ‘Tch,she’s quick to catch on’, he thought as he kept his body still. A part of him wanted to try and see if she can do what she’s said; a threat like that has a good chance of being a bluff. But as much as he wants to fight, she does have a point and he has zero way to get out of this. He kept a calm expression as he listened to her words. A sigh of relief was his response as she was willing to give the benefit of the doubt. It was one of the rare opportunities that he was given a chance to explain himself before he got shot at.
A part of him wondered why he took the bread in the first place but it's not like the dude stole much. Maybe hunger is to blame for his actions as he was starving from the trip to Hage. Moving around the Clover Kingdom is quite an energy drain when it comes to traveling on their own. His looks and age made him a prime target for would be bandits aiming to extort him anything he had. Some encounters were too close for comfort at times as sheer numbers were becoming more of an issue as of late. But then again maybe he was a bit sloppy at hiding his trail and the chances of him running into someone strong weren't exactly high. But that aside, he found himself in quite a pickle and he needed a way out quickly.
At the first sign of peace, he took the opportunity to lower his hands slowly as he went to sit. If he picked a fight now then it would be a waste of energy if she was serious in her threats. He cleared his throat and introduced himself,“My name is Alexander and to clear up how you were poised it did make me think I was being arrested...a necessary precaution to avoid any problems”, he opened up as he got comfortable in his current seat. “And my profession is… or was freelance help at several shops during the war but my current occupation is wanderer... ”, following up as he crossed his legs as he looked at the lady. “..and I prefer to keep it that way for now until I figure out my current situation since you have now caught me”, he jokes.
Being a wanderer has its benefits of freedom but doesn't exactly bring in any sort of security as one gets being a merchant or a knight. A life of crime is appealing to him but too much energy is wasted on not being recognized that it is no good in his books. It also doesn't bring him the fights he actually wants since it's nothing but bandits and higher than thou criminals who want to make a name for themselves. The situation doesn't give him the luxury of lying since it’d only make it worse if he actually did. But it does provide him an opportunity to talk his way out of it and avoid any punishment.
“Since I answered your questions, may I ask the same of you? Not exactly much to do right now unless you plan on bringing me in"
Artemis glanced at the young man. At least he had the decency to actually take her offer. She had been afraid that he might actually try to book it away, taking advantage of her kindness. She had had quite the experience with those kinds, the ones who thought that because Artemis was being very nice, that they could actually get away without a problem, ignoring her random act of kindness. No, in fact, this man had been the only one in recent times to have actually accepted her offer. The last thief that she had caught had the audacity to actually try and attack her, looking to steal her Magic Knights Mantle as some sort of prize, as well as taking advantage of the fact that the man actually had quite a formidable defense magic. Suffice to say, common thieves really had nothing against Magic Knights, and even more so when Artemis is added into the mix. In a class of her own compared to the common thieves and thugs that the Forsaken Region seems to be plagued with, Artemis really tried her best to keep these people away from jail. In the end, their ends were decided with their actions against her, and she only delivered what they deserved in the first place. Truly, this young man had been the only one to have taken her up on her offer of truce, and it was refreshing. Artemis could not help but feel just a little bit curious about this person.[break][break]
“Artemis Somerset of the Green Mantises.” Artemis replied, taking stock of the view from up the skull. It was a peaceful place, and Artemis found herself wondering just how far the horizon stretched. The little things in life sometimes fly by without even being noticed. Life gets in the way of most things, and truthfully, coming here to the Forsaken Region had put a stopper on some of the things that Artemis took for granted. She was able to actually stop and appreciate the little things, those that she had easily missed while growing up in a large mansion located within the common region. “This place has an amazing view, don’t you agree?” Artemis commented off-handedly. She supposed that she had been swept by the view, and forgot about the situation for one moment. And truthfully, she did not mind one bit. Artemis had had less time slowing down, with her time at the Green Mantis being always on the go. This was a rare opportunity for her, and she will take it without complaint. However, Artemis pulled herself from her reverie. [break][break] “No, you are not arrested.” Artemis calmed the man, before grabbing a bread from the basket to examine it. It was of good quality, and Artemis was very impressed at the bakers talents. It seems that these good were definitely top quality, and worthy of a thief’s time to actually steal. “All of these belonged to someone. They probably had a family, were trying to make ends meet, and would have been able to feed their children for a day with this.” Artemis turned her eyes towards the known thief, “Alexander.” She started, now placing the bread back into the basket. “I understand hunger. I understand poverty. I understand living within the Forsaken Region.” Artemis looked at him dead in the eyes, “While I may not have lived it, I understand it because I take my time every day to talk to these people. Merchants, priests, beggars, and orphans, all of them have their hopes, dreams, aspirations, and goals in life. To rob them because of hunger is not excusable, though I can understand why.” Artemis shook her head, “More so than most of the other Magic Knights you will ever meet.”[break][break]
Artemis stared back into the horizon, “You have experience in the war.” She would continue, “You should at least be able to find a stable job within the Common Region. There are opportunities there, to live a simple life, a life that is well cared for through hard work and a good pay.” The woman turned back towards the man, “If you need help finding a stable job, I can help as well. One who helped during the war, even if they were only helping with the shops and stores when manpower was low, should be compensated.” She nodded, “If it is work you’re looking for, I can help.” [break][break] The woman would wait for his answer. Her family’s business, the fishing ships that sailed through the coasts of the Clover Kingdom, were always looking for more hands on deck. She could help him in that regard. In fact, she had already helped quite a bit of those living within the Forsaken Region find stable jobs with the Somerset Family. It would be easy enough, just a letter to her mother was all it took, especially since she was the Head of the Family.
Post by Alexander Valentine on May 2, 2020 1:27:18 GMT -5
‘Green Mantises?!’, is the immediate thought of Alexander as he tried to hide his look of shock as he was caught by a magic knight of that house. It wasn’t impossible due to the region he was in but chances must have been slim to actually run into one of them while on his visit. As long as he stays on her good side...for now. He really wants to test his luck and try and get away but he needs to find a good window to attempt his escape. But talking to her seems to keep her calm and who knows, maybe she has some kind of offer that interests him. For now, he will just relax since she poses no threat to him….and she stopped readying an attack at him. ‘I really need to figure out what to do for dinner…’, he thought to himself as takes a moment to look around.
The aforementioned spot he chose to take his nap was famous for its view. Not many can say one has napped on the skull of a giant demon. Skies were clear and a gentle breeze started to blow as he looked out to the horizon. Taking in the view is one of the perks of being a wanderer; nothing to worry about, nothing weighing him down, only nature to keep him company. “Yep...one of the reasons why I chose to visit this town” he replied to her remark as he took in the view. A genuine smile appeared on his face as he felt the cool wind on his face. Though it was a short lived moment as she soon mentioned that he wasn't under arrest. A sigh of relief would be audible as she said that but there was more to her statement.
She started to talk about how they were for a family or something along those lines. The usual story to someone who is caught stealing and while preaching the good of the land. It was all noble and grand but he knows the deal perfectly. Recalling how his family struggled and how everyone around them was out for themselves during the five year war. Being reminded of it doesn’t undo the various other instances of this same thing. He knows that everyone has their own dreams but they are also so quick to pull down others for the sake of it. It happened to his father, it happened to his mother and it nearly happened to him. He stole not because he was deathly hungry but he simply didn't have the funds to buy himself a meal.
She does understand why he did it but only one part of a bigger picture. Explaining it to her will become a debate on morals and what is right but that is more suited to nobles. But then she started to talk about finding a job in the commons and her offering her aid. A part of himself wanted to jump on it and say yes but he was hesitant to say the least. His personal rule of his involves not getting too close to someone one had just met. But telling her the truth wouldn’t hurt too much in the long run; it perhaps would help his case in not getting in trouble with the townsfolk. He remained silent for a few minutes as he thought up a proper response to her questions.
A sigh was let out once again and he looked to her with a very neutral expression, “I was merely lending a helping hand during the war…most of the work was moving storage crates and all of my compensation went towards helping my family.”, his eyes turned to the horizon as if he was recalling a distant tragedy.“The commons aren't exactly open to helping me or my family in any shape or form….most of what I saved up went to keeping them safe and to tell you the truth, I'm not one to be satisfied with living a simple life after the five years of war…”, he followed up as he laid back on the ground and stared at the sky. “My goal right now is to see where the wind takes me and where I can get a good fight. Simple street fights don't do anything for me anymore and Im a bit stumped on where to go from here…”
Artemis would listen to the young man’s explanation. She could understand where he was coming from. The war was something that affected everybody. A lot of the Magic Squads had lost valuable members. From what Artemis had heard, they had also lost valuable leaders in the fight against the Shining Generals. Artemis recalled stories of Captains and Vice Captains being killed off. There had been stories of houses being leveled down, of whole cities literally shattering from the titanic battles, and even more so the damages that the navy incurred during the whole war. Industries were destroyed, and it took quite a bit until most of the Clover Kingdom were able to recover. Families were also affected, more so the commoners than any of the nobility. Even the Somerset Family had its reserves depleted. The war had been fought on more than one front, after all. From the land, and the sea, battles raged. The Somersets had provided, as per tradition, the bulk of the vessels against the Diamond Kingdom. While the war ravaged the Kingdom by land, it also caused untold amount of damage at sea. Artemis herself had lost family members to the war, both within the Magic Knights, as well as those who had taken up positions with the naval vessels. It had been a crushing blow for both sides, and while the Clover Kingdom had taken the technical win of the war, both sides lost so much for it. [break][break]
It was, indeed, a Pyrrhic War. [break][break]
“All help is appreciated, no matter how small or big.” Artemis would acknowledge the man’s efforts. “The war was horrendous in more ways than one. While the fight was at the frontlines, many whom were left behind were affected as well.” She acknowledged the sacrifices of those who had to quit their profession only to help with the war effort. It was not something easily done, nor should it be forgotten. “There is now war, no victory, without the support of the masses.” Power was nothing without the support of the people, after all. No matter how strong a Magic Knight was, a mob of very determined commoners would be something that was hard to deal with. “I’m sorry to hear that nobody was open to help you through it after the war.” Artemis sighed. So many were ignored, or fell through the cracks, as the Clover Kingdom rebuilt. She was sure that there was some governmental program that could have helped the young man and his family. While his efforts in the war were dedicated in the rear lines, it would still have at least helped him and his family onto their feet. But they seemed to have slipped through the cracks. “It seems that the Kingdom was unable to provide your family proper recompense. For that, I apologize as a Magic Knight.” Artemis shook her head in dismay, though an idea popping in her head.[break][break]
“Not a simple life, hm?” Artemis pondered. She was sure this might just be a good offer. While the young man did not seem to want to take her offer, though she was sure it might be because they had just met, Artemis had yet hatched another plan for the young man. A simple life was easy to find. Every commoner would have a simple life, and truly, it was easily established if one actually worked hard enough. Becoming a farmer was one, maybe even a service provider, such as a farmhand to start off. There were quite a number of opportunities that were to be had if one only looked at the right place. However, living a not so simple life was something much harder. Technically, one could become a rogue. That would be the easiest option. Living a life on the run was something to be had by some, and honestly, the appeal of being lawless had been more than enough for some, especially after the Diamond Kingdom’s war. The other option would be a bit harder to achieve, though the young man might just take the cake if he works hard enough.[break][break]
“Well, the wind took you to the right person, it seemed like.” Artemis would nod, watching the sky turn darker as the sun set. It was early evening now, though Artemis did enjoy the view. The horizon stretched so far, and it invigorated her. “If you want a not so simple life. A life filled with good fights. A life that pays well. Then you should get yourself ready for the Magic Knights Exam.” Artemis would glance at the young man, watching for his reaction, “At least, if you think you’re up for it? Seems like a good time as any to take the Exam, don’t you think?”[break][break]
Artemis would gauge the young man’s reaction. If he was for it, then she would continue to explain the process, and possibly be able to nab another recruit for the Green Mantises. If not, then she’ll leave it at that.
Post by Alexander Valentine on May 2, 2020 22:28:57 GMT -5
Recalling the depressing times of the war was a sensitive subject to Alexander as it ended so recently. Spending each and everyday in fear as he needed to help feed the family and to run at a moments notice. Stocking up bags upon bags of rations for no more than a small amount, watching the horizon in constant fear of an attack by the enemy kingdom, sleeping with his siblings during the night to comfort them. Spending every night watching the forest from dusk till dawn left him numb. To spend those five years angry and without an outlet really makes a kid go stir crazy. Gone were the days of traveling on the road and playground games and the only thing that remained was his family. Looked at the sun as it began to set as vivid orange began to remind him of that night.
He remembered the day his hometown was burned to the ground. It was all of sudden and it came as swift as a storm, he could not bear to go back to see the town he grew up in burned to cinders. Seeing it burn from a distance only instilled a deep anger at the kingdom and it quietly stewed him for those five years. A seed of determination was sowed on that day and he only focused on living. The war took a lot from its people; it took his pride, it took his friends, it took away his family's dreams, but it did not take his spirit. Every night when he watched the horizon, he simply trained on a mountain to his best. It was the only thing he could do really as he had no skill with numbers like his father nor the bartering skills of his mother. His siblings were more suited for that, all he had was his fists and his body.
He clenched his fist as he slowly snapped out of his trip down memory lane when Artemis apologized for the lack of aid from the clover kingdom.” Apologizing for something you had no hand in is unbecoming of a knight... but no amount of repaying wont give me back the years I lost..."his voice getting a bit agitated but it soon lightened up as said his last thought on it." ...but what matters is that they are alive here and now. The past was the past and we are in the now...”, he slowly stood up as he stretched his arms into the air. His eyes saw the sunset and it was quite grand considering the spot he chose. The knight repeated his remark as he watched the nightfall slowly make its presence known. A part of him looked to the bread and see if he can still return it to the place but he'd do it after he is done talking with the Magic Knight.
‘Perhaps she is going to try and steer me the right way to join her squad or something’, he joked in his mind as he felt the cool evening air coming in. But his ears would perk up as Artemis spoke again. He was right about his assumption but he appreciates the honesty. Internally he thought about the idea as the magic knights do have everything one can offer for a life he dreams of. The various legends of heroes of yore usually were part of the magic knights, tales of life changing battles and going against seemingly impossible odds. It was all laid out before him and a lot of pros outweigh the cons. He began to smile as he looked to the woman with his answer.
“Magic Knight Alexander? Has a rather nice ring to it…”, he opened as his tone of voice got more and more excited. “If it provides me with the fun I'm seeking then I'm open to taking it. Might lose the chance if I wait on this any longer than I should.”, he put his arms behind his head as he began to think of the new challenges on the road that is set before him. “Just tell me where to go and I’ll make sure I’ll show them what I’m made of”.
He knows that this could be a ploy to get him to join their knight squad but if it provides him the life he wishes for then what's the harm in that. The life of the traveler can only do so much for a battle hungry boy like him and this is a chance to see if he can get stronger.
Artemis listened to the young man. Of course, the war affected everybody. It affected the Magic Knights, it affected the nobility, and most importantly, it affected the common people. Artemis had a soft spot for those in need, though she might not admit it. Truly, her personality was not fitting for a Green Mantis on paper. She truly tried to understand the people. She took pity, and wanted to help when she could. While her noble blood deemed her superior in every way socially, she still knew that the common people were essential. Artemis supposed this was where she actually found her sympathy. Artemis knew how important the common people were. They outnumbered the nobility, after all. And, no matter what the nobility try to say and do to demean the common folk, they are the backbone to the Clover Kingdom’s prosperity. After all, they were the farmers who tilled the land. They were the crafters, the smiths, and the fishermen. The common folk work their life in service to the Clover Kingdom and its people, and they truly did not even think of it that way. For the common folk, their mindset was simple. It was all about acquiring resources to live. They believe their lives to be simple, and meaningful in its own way. They live, they laugh, and they love. For Artemis, this was what she was trying to preserve. A healthy balance between nobility and the common people. Something that the other nobility seem to start to understand, though the holier-than-thou attitude is still present in a lot of the circles.[break][break]
“I suppose so.” Artemis would respond, though the guilt was still heavy on her shoulders. “There is life after any tragedy. We try our best every single day, and truly, it can be a harsh reality.” She would pause. There were countless of families just like Alexander’s who had face troubled times during and after the war. They were affected, just as much as any others. However, while the nobility stood aside, only thinking of gains, the common people suffered. Can they not see that the commoners were as essential as the nobility that were able to lead? There is no such thing as a leader without a follower. If anything, they should at least understand that without commoners, their livelihoods would be impossible to maintain. “I am glad that you think like that.” She gave him a nod, “And I am glad that your family is safe as well.”[break][break]
She then turned her attention to his seeming interest with the Magic Knights. Of course, Artemis would not hold her breath. A lot of the Magic Knight Exam takers chose to not go to the Green Mantis, especially when given the choice. “The Green Mantis is currently looking for more recruits through the Magic Knights Exam.” Artemis would respond in kind, “If you want the life that you envisioned, I can at least tell you that you might find it with us.” She would turn towards the setting sun, before standing up and dusting her clothes. “The place will be announced soon to all towns, so keep an ear out.”[break][break]
She then turned away, looking towards the direction of the Green Mantis base. “Don’t worry about that basket. Keep it. I will be paying a visit to the person robbed and will pay him in full for the items.” Artemis would give him a stare, “However, don’t let me catch you stealing again.” She then jumped away, hoping that she had at least made an impression on the young man, and possibly a new recruit coming the Magic Knight Exams.
Post by Alexander Valentine on May 4, 2020 2:03:42 GMT -5
‘Knew it, knew I was being recruited’ Alex thought as he listened to Artemis's words. But he at least appreciates the honesty she has about her intentions as to why she recommended it. “ If your place goes up against some strong people, then I'm game. I wanna see how they fight and how they think.” a grin on his face as he thought about what sort of people would be at a place like that. His impression of her seem to give off the idea that they could be really sharp...but would they be as open to talking as her? Meaningless questions can be answered later as he made a mental note on the Magic Knight Exams and how to find it. “I’ll keep an eye out for sure..”
As she prepared to leave, he stretched his arms up to the air and made some new plans for himself.”If this lady shows the level of magic knights now...I have some serious catching up to do if I want to pass those exams.”, he thought as he pulled out his grimoire and looked to the sunset. But his attention would be stolen one more time as he heard she was going to return the bread for him and a stern warning.
“I appreciate the gesture and I’ll make sure I wont steal again...I have bigger things to worry about now aside from bread theft now..”, in the back of his mind, he may need to keep this skill handy when the time comes. But saying that out loud may just send him flying into the abyss below. But as she left and he was left on his own, he closed his eyes and let the cold wind blow on his face." Artemis of the Magic Knights huh? Interesting person to catch me in a town like this." he thought as he his started to loo towards the direction of home. He came to this town to try some food and relax, but all he has now is a new challenge. His expression got a bit more puzzled as he thinks on what to do next since this was the first time he considered joining the Magic Knights.
“Looks like I’m going to visit home for a bit to figure this out”, he mutters to himself as he pulls out his grimoire. Inaudible words left his mouth as a cape of sparks and light began to flow through his body. He glowed brilliantly in the twilight as he looked towards the direction of home. “Next Stop. Home” he said as he goes for a running start off the skull of the demon and jetted off as he began his journey back home. His cape flowing behind him as he looked like a comet flying through the night.
