..E m p i r e * o f * O s a n e n.. [O/A]{Ignore Page Count}

[~::*Shinji*::~]

.｡.✿ 𝕰 𝖒 𝖕 𝖎 𝖗 𝖊.. ¤ .. 𝖔 𝖋... ¤ ...𝕺 𝖘 𝖆 𝖓 𝖊 𝖓 ✿.｡.

.｡.Table ｡ of ｡ Contents.｡.

❉ Introduction ❉

❉ Rules ❉

❉ How to Apply ❉

❉ Profiles ❉

❉ Announcements ❉

❉ OOC link ❉

[~::*Shinji*::~]

.｡.✿ 𝕴 𝖓 𝖙 𝖗 𝖔 𝖉 𝖚 𝖈 𝖙 𝖎 𝖔 𝖓 ✿.｡.

In a land unlike our own, there was an Empire known to the surrounding countries as Osanen. The Emperor was greatly admired and loved by many. Due to their laws, he and his heir were rarely seen, but the villagers gratefully received his generosity and kind influence. They lived peacefully and happily secure in the knowledge that they were safe in their Empire of Osanen.

Alas, misfortune over took the land and the good king fell ill, leaving his heir of seven years to the throne. The equally generous and kind Prime Minister, who was like a family member to the court, took it upon himself to see that the young Emperor would not lose heart and continue in his father’s footsteps. His inexperience, however, was his unfortunate flaw. The stresses of problems and issues that were held before him caused him to grow ill. He followed his father to the grave eight years later. This threw the people into complete disarray.

Fear and crime fell upon the Empire and the Prime Minister was forced to take the lead as Emperor of the now frenzied land. Having to now use more force than before the new Emperor has grown a stern fist as a means to somehow regain order in the land. Seeing also that funds have become scarce due to the growing chaos, the new Emperor was obligated to tax the people more than usual, thus causing an increased gap in social statuses as well a decrease in economic productivity.

The new Emperor is doing everything in his power to help his people and is trying to assure them that things will get better, but he needs their help in order for things to finally settle into the peacefulness they once knew.

One of the neighboring countries has seen the confused mess that has become of this Empire and finds this to be a beneficial time to come and take the land for themselves. This was discovered by the finding of a spy from that country that is currently hiding among the people. Having heard this, the new Emperor felt at his wit’s end. He has but a shimmer of hope for salvation of this once beautiful land.

Legend speaks of a group of warriors that were the protectors of the Emperor and his bloodline from the surrounding countries. The Elementals. They were spoken as myth, but the new Emperor believed that their ancestors exist in this very land that needs them the most. Though they themselves might not know what they are… They would need to be sought out immediately.

~ ❉ ~

So, that’s where we start. There is crime and poverty, but there is also the upper class of citizens and then the Royal court. The Elementals are simple folk and unaware of the extent of their power or their purpose. They may have discovered that they are special and can slightly manipulate their ability, but not by much (whether they know of it or not is up to you... but not everyone can know in the beginning!). There are 5 elementals left - light’s line has died off over the years. The spy and prime minister are already taken and will be controlled by the leaders of this RP, my friend and I. Other than that, though, they're all up for grabs.

[~::*Shinji*::~]

.｡.✿ 𝕽 𝖚 𝖑 𝖊 𝖘 ✿.｡.

Ⅰ. This is a literate roleplay, which means that I expect a decent amount of writing in each post and it to be grammatically correct (mistakes are understandable, but nothing where it's like text talk). I expect you to write your posts like if you were writing a book. No, I do not have a limit as in how much you can write, but the more you write, the more the other players have to work with... so no one-liners whatsoever. Overall, literacy is required and loved. <3

Ⅱ. I do realize that people have lives and that there are things more important than this roleplay, but please do not join this RP and then never post. If anything, please make an effort to post at least once a day. If you do not post in a week, I will send a warning PM to you. If you still don't post, then I will have to kick you out. Don't force me to do that - I just want to have fun like everyone else and I would rather not have to be mean to anyone.

Ⅲ. Please do not post any OOC comments or irrelevant posts in here. There is a OOC thread for that purpose, and please use that to your advantage. I love talking about and sharing ideas with fellow roleplayers. ^^

Ⅳ. I have noticed that a recent trend in RPs like this is to make the posts pretty with fancy lettering, colors, titles, and pictures. I am not requiring this in this RP, as I know it can be a hassle. However, you are allowed if you so desire. Just remember that what's inside the post is important, not what's around it. =3

Ⅴ. No god-modding is allowed! I will not tolerate someone taking complete control of someone else's character unless you have their advanced permission to do so. This also applies to killing a character. Don't do it without my and the roleplayer's permission.

Ⅵ. Romance is encouraged, as well as fighting, but please do not break the ToS in any way. Let's keep this PG-13, please.

Ⅶ. Swearing is alright, but please do not go overboard with it.

Ⅷ. I, ~::*Shinji*::~, am the ruler/GM of this RP, so obey me or DIE. D:< If you have any questions, feel free to PM me. I tend to have no life and am on practically all the time. >.<

Ⅸ. I am allowed to change these rules as I please.

Ⅹ. And last but not least... have fun! 8D

[~::*Shinji*::~]

.｡.✿ ℋ 𝖔 𝖜.. ¤ .. 𝖙 𝖔... ¤ ...Ӑ 𝖕 𝖕 𝖑 𝖞✿.｡.

Ⅰ. Because of the on-growing trend of illiteracy, I am going to have to require TWO SEPARATE PMs from you that you will be sending to me, ~::*Shinji*::~. First, your profile, and then a PM with at least one sample of your writing. We just want to make sure that you're not pulling our leg with a nice profile. ;D

Ⅱ. To make sure that you have read all of this, the first PM with your profile must have the title, "How can I believe in destiny", with the second then titled, "If I don't even know what mine is?". If they are not titled correctly, then I will ignore your application.

Ⅲ. We highly recommend that you use an anime picture of sorts for your character. Real life ones will be frowned upon. =(

Ⅳ. The five elements that exist are: Fire, Ice, Dark, Earth, and Wind. If you are applying to be an elemental, we require that somewhere on your person that you have a symbol of sorts that relates to your element. You can choose what it looks like or where it is (nowhere innappropriate, please), but nothing too big.

Ⅴ. If you want to apply for the Dark element, please PM me first - before you start filling out the profile. You'll understand why later... and for those who aren't, then same to you. xD

Ⅵ. Don't forget that we are also allowing humans to be a part of this!

[align=center][size=18]׺°”[/size][size=24] Name [/size][size=18]”°º×[/size][/align]

[size=10][i]Born to serve a [b]purpose[/b]...[/i][/size]

.¸¸·´¯`·.¸¸¤

[size=12]:❉:[/size][size=18] ω[/size][size=10]hat were you dubbed as by your parents? (Name)[/size]

[size=12]:❉:[/size][size=18] α[/size][size=10]ny special titles? Or just what's on the birth certificate? (Nickname, if any)[/size]

[size=12]:❉:[/size][size=18] ω[/size][size=10]hen the doctor saw you for the first time, he exclaimed, "It's a ____!" (Gender)[/size]

[size=12]:❉:[/size][size=18] ℓ[/size][size=10]et's count those candles! 1, 2, 3... (Age)[/size]

[size=12]:❉:[/size][size=18] є[/size][size=10]veryone has that special day... (Birthday)[/size]

[size=12]:❉:[/size][size=18] ω[/size][size=10]hat kind of genes created what you are today? (Human/Element)[/size]

[size=12]:❉:[/size][size=18] ι[/size][size=10]f we were to take a snapshot of this very moment, you would look like this: (Picture)[/size]

[size=12]:❉:[/size][size=18] α[/size][size=10]side from that, let's hear how you would describe yourself. (Appearance - if anything more than what's from the picture, mention here.)[/size]

[size=12]:❉:[/size][size=18] т[/size][size=10]his world isn't completely safe, so how do you go about defending yourself? (Weapon, if any)[/size]

[size=12]:❉:[/size][size=18] и[/size][size=10]obody is identical, so what's so different about you? (Personality)[/size]

[size=12]:❉:[/size][size=18] ι[/size][size=10] could do this without even lifting a finger! (Strengths... about 3 is a good amount to have.)[/size]

[size=12]:❉:[/size][size=18] ғ[/size][size=10]laws aren't all that bad - it just depends on how you use them. (Weaknesses - same as strengths.)[/size]

[size=12]:❉:[/size][size=18] т[/size][size=10]he past can either be a part of you or make you... so let's hear yours. (History)[/size]

[size=12]:❉:[/size][size=18] ω[/size][size=10]ith all of this in mind, say one thing that is important to know about you that was somehow missed. (Random Fact... at least one!)[/size]

[size=12]:❉:[/size][size=18] в[/size][size=10]ehind the curtain is the master at work... (Username)[/size]

[align=right]¤¸¸.·´¯`·.¸·

[size=10][i]...will you be able to [u]fulfill[/u] it?[/i][/size][/align]

[align=center].｡.✿ [size=18]இ[/size] ✿.｡.[/align]

[~::*Shinji*::~]

.｡.✿ φ 𝖗 𝖔 𝖋 𝖎 𝖑 𝖊 𝖘 ✿.｡.

.｡.Elementals.｡.

>> Ice <<

׺°” Racquel Candelaria ”°º×

Born to serve a purpose...

.¸¸·´¯`·.¸¸¤

:❉: ωhat were you dubbed as by your parents? My official title is Racquel Gabriella Candelaria.

:❉: αny special titles? Or just what's on the birth certificate? Well, when my sister was younger, she couldn't pronounce my name, so she would call me "Rikka". Other than that, just Racquel is fine.

:❉: ωhen the doctor saw you for the first time, he exclaimed, "It's a girl!"

:❉: ℓet's count those candles! 1, 2, 3... 20 years, to be exact.

:❉: єveryone has that special day... April 8th

:❉: ωhat kind of genes created what you are today? Ice elemental

:❉: ιf we were to take a snapshot of this very moment, you would look like this: My Appearance

:❉: αside from that, let's hear how you would describe yourself. With the same body structure as my twin, Ember (height, weight, and form), it's hard to describe myself otherwise. We're not identical, as one can tell right away from a glance, but we do share a lot of similarities physically. As for the things that separate us, my skin is unusually pale in comparison to not just Ember, but to any person. Also, my hair is the opposite of hers - it's a majority white with a dark red accent in the bangs/front part of the hair. What really is different but most people don't ever see is that I have come to notice that there is a strange birthmark of sorts on the back of my right shoulder. Nothing like I have ever seen, either... it's in the shape of an ornate six-pointed star, as though it's a snowflake.

:❉: тhis world isn't completely safe, so how do you go about defending yourself? Although I'm not a particular fan of fighting, I have become somewhat skilled in using a staff through my sister. She would at times force me to practice with her since she was allowed to wield a weapon, but it was always in private since my parents did not want me participating in such activities. With this in mind, I don't own any specific weapon, but if I had to defend myself, I could at least make an attempt to do so.

:❉: иobody is identical, so what's so different about you? I'm practically the opposite of Ember when it comes to this - I am calm, gentle, and more reserved than outgoing. I tend to act poised and respectful around others, especially around ones I don't know, just out of sheer habit from my upbringing. I tend to keep silent, even though there are things that I wish I could say... I always think before I do anything. I do have a rebellious streak in me, so to speak, but it is nothing like my sister, and I barely ever show it.

:❉: ι could do this without even lifting a finger! Having been trained since I was small, I know how to treat others well and respectively, as well as speak intelligently. Because of that, people tend to think that I am wise. Since I couldn't participate in the same activities as Ember, I developed a talent for horseback riding just as a way of getting out of the house. I even have a horse that I have had since I was little and mainly trained myself, with the assistance of a teacher. I also can do simple things around the house, like cooking, cleaning, and sewing, but those aren't as important or worthwhile.

:❉: ғlaws aren't all that bad - it just depends on how you use them. Because of the way I was raised, I am not as physically strong as my twin, since I was never forced to do hard labor during my childhood. Since I am quiet, I tend to end up getting not what I want or am forced to go along with whatever. I am not able to speak my mind, as my mother has taught me to be polite at all costs...

:❉: тhe past can either be a part of you or make you... so let's hear yours. Born and raised in a family of a higher class had its impact on both my sister and I. Father always wanted a son, but mother wanted a daughter... and she ended up with two. Since Ember was busy with father all the time, mother ended up being my main caretaker and teacher. I didn't get to learn the same things as Ember, for my mother focused on teaching me to be the "perfect woman", learning artistic things (writing, literature, sewing, art) as well as things that are needed in order to a be a useful wife. I wished they hadn't separated us, for I barely got to see Ember during the day, but there was nothing we could do about it. They had our futures planned out for us without our consent.

Ember was never one to go along with someone else's plans, but I never complained. I actually got along with mother, and I didn't see father enough to have problems with him. I knew there was tension between my sister and father, however... they never hid it, and she would talk to me about it.

My sister and I have always been close, and still are, even though our lives have been forced to go in different directions. She's the closest person to me, so when she said that she wanted to leave...

And then she did. I didn't think she actually would, but it was inevitable. Ever since then, they have been keeping a close eye on me, with the pressure higher than ever before. I'm the only child they have left now, and there's no option for failure.

I visit Ember on occasion, as she visits me (all without them knowing), but...

:❉: ωith all of this in mind, say one thing that is important to know about you that was somehow missed. I actually like to collect things and decorate my living space with the items. When my father goes on trips, he always would bring me something back, whether it be a piece of jewelry or a scrap of fabric, thus giving birth to my hobby.

:❉: вehind the curtain is the master at work... ~::*Shinji*::~

¤¸¸.·´¯`·.¸·

...will you be able to fulfill it?

.｡.✿ இ ✿.｡.

>> Fire <<

׺°” Ember Candelaria ”°º×

Born to serve a purpose...

.¸¸·´¯`·.¸¸¤

:❉: ωhat were you dubbed as by your parents? my birth name is Eadburga Candelaria

:❉: αny special titles? Or just what's on the birth certificate? I prefer to be called Ember and introduce myself as such.

:❉: ωhen the doctor saw you for the first time, he exclaimed, "It's a girl!"

:❉: ℓet's count those candles! 1, 2, 3... 20

:❉: єveryone has that special day... April 8th

:❉: ωhat kind of genes created what you are today? Essence of the Flame

:❉: ιf we were to take a snapshot of this very moment, you would look like this: [x]

:❉: αside from that, let's hear how you would describe yourself. I stand around 5'6" same as my sister. For the most part we share a similar buiild, however I am much more fit and have a little muscle definition in my abs, arms, and legs. In opposition of my sister, I have tanned skin and my hair is mainly dark red with accents of white. There is also a strange birthmark on the back of my right shoulder that resembles that of a candle's flame.

:❉: тhis world isn't completely safe, so how do you go about defending yourself? Becasuse I am the 'son' in the family my father was very insistent that I learn to fight. I was to learning using the sun shaped chakrams that he used when he was younger. I didn't like the idea of having such similarities to my father and attempted to train using other weapons, but found that adaptations of chakrams was far easier than any other weapon I tried. Thus causing me to have to settle with using these.

:❉: иobody is identical, so what's so different about you? I'm strong willed, outgoing, and... well... manly. My mother attempted to impose her gentle, wise, femininity on me but it never appealed to me. I have a very short temper and tend to say thing I don't mean, a lot. I hate when people think I'm incapable or decide things for me, thus causing me to be naturally rebellious against what other people want for me or want me to do. I do mean well, but I don't always know how to express that without getting mad or frustrated.

:❉: ι could do this without even lifting a finger! I'm stronger than any boy I've ever known. I greatly skilled in physical combat with and without a weapon and also have a good sense of balance and flexibility. I can also ride horseback, but no longer have my horse...

:❉: ғlaws aren't all that bad - it just depends on how you use them. I am stubborn as hell... Stubborn as my father... I have a lack of control especially when I get mad.... which is a common occurrence. I usually don't think before acting on instinct, which usually gets me in a lot of trouble. I tend to be honest, blunt and tactless. It's not that I sound stupid, I just always sound mean even without intending to.

:❉: тhe past can either be a part of you or make you... so let's hear yours. When my father found out my mother was pregnant he rejoiced at the possibility of having a boy to be an heir that he would ba able to raise to be like him. He got his hopes up so much so, that when me and my sister came out to be girls, he got mad and almost choked one of the doctors. Fortunately there were enough other people to hold him off.

Unfortunately, because he had no son he felt obligated to treat me as such. This is where our terrible 'love/hate' relationship started. Although, I will say that it has changed more into a 'hate/hate' relationship. He hired tutors to teach me history, geography, math, science, swordplay, horseback riding and the such like. He would show off how much better I was than his friends ' sons. All I ever seemed to be to him was a trophy. He got stuck with a girl so he felt he had to fix me.

He hovered over my every move while my sister was taken care of by my mother, for the most part. I rarely saw my mother, but what I did see was that she was weak and far too submissive for her own good. She was very pretty but she had a weak personality.

My father and I would fight constantly. He would demand something of me and I would bite back. Our personalities were so similar that we clashed consistently.

My sister... I love my sister more than anything. She's the only one I can really talk to. She's pretty, gentle and wise like my mother, only she has a stronger personality. I respect her. She always knows what to say to make me feel better if I'm angry or sad. We've always had a connection... ever since birth. That's what made that day even harder.

within the past year, I suppose my parents got sick of me and my sister, because they started discussing who to marry us away to. I hate that... I hate it! I was already plotting to runaway considering I was sick of my parents, but that really pushed me out the door. When my father informed me that he had someone lined up for me, I snapped. That was the worst fight I'd ever been in with my dad. Usually our fights are limited to words, but I knew I wasn't coming back so I let all my rage out. I knocked him to the ground, and ran away. Leaving my house, my family, my sister...

I made my way to one of the villages on the outskirts of the empire and sought refuge in an abandoned house. It wasn't too bad and I managed to take enough money with me from my parents that if I rationed it, it'd last me a few years. I try to stay in contact with my sister. I'll either visit her or she'll come out to see me.

:❉: ωith all of this in mind, say one thing that is important to know about you that was somehow missed. I'm scared of being left alone... even though I always seem to be. I have a necklace that I keep with me for luck, my sister gave it to me before I left.

:❉: вehind the curtain is the master at work... .:Xhang Sen:.

¤¸¸.·´¯`·.¸·

...will you be able to fulfill it?

.｡.✿ இ ✿.｡.

Dark >> Open

>> Wind <<

׺°” Daiyu Lan ”°º×

Born to serve a purpose...

.¸¸·´¯`·.¸¸¤

:❉: ωhat were you dubbed as by your parents?
"Given name Daiyu, family name Lan. Thus, Daiyu Lan."

:❉: αny special titles? Or just what's on the birth certificate?
"I just prefer Daiyu. My name is simple enough as is."

:❉: ωhen the doctor saw you for the first time, he exclaimed, "It's a ____!"
"Girl, of course. It should be obvious."

:❉: ℓet's count those candles! 1, 2, 3...
"21. Don't look at me like that - I'm well aware I look younger then I am."

:❉: єveryone has that special day...
"December 22nd. I'm a winter baby; maybe that explains my demeanor some."

:❉: ωhat kind of genes created what you are today?
"I am Air... with a healthy dose of Osanen middle-class."

:❉: ιf we were to take a snapshot of this very moment, you would look like this:
"Just like this, though my Han isn't always red, of course."

:❉: αside from that, let's hear how you would describe yourself.
"I'm a fairly small person, even by standards for women. My hair is long, falling past my waist - though most women have hair as long or longer then mine, no? I have a odd spiral pattern, roughly the size of my fist, on the back of my left calf, too."

:❉: тhis world isn't completely safe, so how do you go about defending yourself?
"It's improper for a woman to carry a weapon, don't you know? So of course, smart women carry oil-paper parasols that are actually Iaito Iai swords. Other then that, I guess I have to rely on my sparkling wit and ladylike charm, huh?"

:❉: иobody is identical, so what's so different about you?
"I suppose what would make me stand out most is my intelligence? It seems like so many women of the day have nothing in their mind besides men and families and babies, and while that's brilliant for them, I can't help but feel like there's something more out there. This country is crumbling from what it used to be, and maybe among these tittering she-lemmings, there's people who might have an idea of how to help. I know there's a way to help, I just have to figure it out. I'm not heartless, of course - I've got younger siblings, and they warm my heart like no other. I've got a bit of a stubborn streak - it's genetic, which you'll realize quickly should you ever meet my father - but I'm not absolutely bullheaded. Give me reason and logic and I can probably see things your way, assuming you're not completely obnoxious about it. Following that same line of logical thought, I don't believe in flowery words and pretty phrases and walking on eggshells; please, say it how it is. I'll tell you exactly how I feel or what I'm thinking; I'd appreciate the same courtesy in return. Given my previous statements, I obviously have low tolerance for ignorance or stupidity; I'm not cruel enough to call you out on either if you happen to be afflicted by such, but don't expect a new confidante in me, either. I appreciate beauty and grace, though with the middle-class shrinking, there's not much beauty left for us... But that just makes me appreciate it more. I'm not a weak person, I can handle myself - but I'm not invincible, either. We all have our Achilles heels, physically and emotionally; I don't wear mine on my sleeve, is all."

:❉: ι could do this without even lifting a finger!
"My logic and smarts, obviously - because trust me, it's a weapon more powerful then any sword. I'm swift, faster then most, and coupled with my small size, I make an effective combatant. Something about my demeanor, my appearance - people trust me easier. I'd consider that a strength."

:❉: ғlaws aren't all that bad - it just depends on how you use them.
"I'm small, I'm short, I weigh about half as much as the average teenage boy; it won't take much to overpower me, if you catch me. I'm not very good with subtlety, and poise, and well.. subtlety - being frank does have its downside, often in the form of angry or offended enemies. I'd say I'm a woman, but that's as much of a strength as it is a weakness, so I suppose.. Oh, I know. My inexperience. I'm just the eldest child of an average family, raised from youth to be a good woman and a good wife; I have no formal experience with combat, or sabotage, or.. anything of the like. Logic and smarts can only get you so far - experience accounts for a lot of a person's ability, too."

:❉: тhe past can either be a part of you or make you... so let's hear yours.
"As previously stated, my parents are both average people. Our family has resided in Osanen for something like fifteen generations now, never particularly poor or particularly wealthy. Mother's parents were both artists, and Father's parents were both horse breeders - these two modest lines of work diverged. My father, Tao, is still a horse breeder, and my mother, Jin, is a seamstress, when she's not running the household and keeping the children in line. I was born first, when my parents were both still teenagers, and I was raised devoutly and meticulously, the idea of a prim and proper first-born appealing to both of them. Obviously, I didn't turn out quite as they expected, but I'm smart enough to know when being prim and proper has its uses. I was six when my younger - and only - brother was born (his name is Biyu), and he became my father's pride and joy, as only a son could be. Trust me when I say I wasn't upset about it - they stopped being so fussy with me, which gave me room to grow as an individual. I started going to school, learning to read and write - some women may not have felt the need to do so, but my mother wanted to make sure all her children were educated - thank you, Mother - so off to school I went. When I was twelve and Biyu was six, Mother had Ju and Jia - twins, as rare as it is. At this point, mother had her hands full, as the twins are active, wild, and, in my opinion, slightly crazy. I was fifteen when my last sister Ruo was born, and as her name implies, she is the most mild and gentle of us all.

I wish I could relay some interesting and harrowing story of a childhood mishap, of some disaster that shook my family, but alas, I'm afraid I have nothing that interesting. I think the worst thing that ever happened was when Father found out Biyu wasn't going to school, and going to spend time with the wharf fishermen instead. Let me tell you, I thought Father was going to skin Biyu alive - I've never seen him that furious in my entire life! Things have started to get a little rocky at home the last two or so years, though; I'm too old to be living at home now, according to Mother, and I need to find a husband soon. But I don't want to be married, not yet. There's more I have to do, more I have to accomplish, more I have to see.. is that so much a crime?"

:❉: ωith all of this in mind, say one thing that is important to know about you that was somehow missed.
"I have very little experience with men; as such, I'm a bit shy, especially if they have a handsome face."

:❉: вehind the curtain is the master at work...
Sothis

¤¸¸.·´¯`·.¸·

...will you be able to fulfill it?

.｡.✿ இ ✿.｡.

>> Earth <<

׺°” Lance Stone ”°º×

Born to serve a purpose...

.¸¸·´¯`·.¸¸¤

:❉: ωhat were you dubbed as by your parents?
Lanzo

:❉: αny special titles? Or just what's on the birth certificate?
Lance, by his friends, Steele by his customers


:❉: ωhen the doctor saw you for the first time, he exclaimed, "It's a boy!" (Male)

:❉: ℓet's count those candles! 1, 2, 3...
23 years of age


:❉: єveryone has that special day...
Born 7 April

:❉: ωhat kind of genes created what you are today? Earth Elemental descendant

:❉: ιf we were to take a snapshot of this very moment, you would look like this: Lance

:❉: αside from that, let's hear how you would describe yourself.
Though not very tall, only 5'7", Lance is a burly, muscular man. That said, he is very tough and sturdy but can be slow, as he weighs in excess of 250 pounds. He has a 'birth mark' depicting the Aristotolian symbol for Earth. It is a Triangle, pointed down, with a horizontal line cut through it near the center. The symbol is located on the back of his right hand. Some think it's a tatoo of some sort, but Lance knows he was born with it.

:❉: тhis world isn't completely safe, so how do you go about defending yourself?
Lance is skilled in the use of hammers, both as tools and as weapons. When dealing with a prominent combat situation, his weapon of choice is Megaton, a massive, two-handed maul-like hammer, a weapon that fits his 'slow-to-bear but incredibly effective' personality. Additionally, he constructed a cutsom-fit suit of Banded Armor. It consists of multiple overlapping plates of metal banded, hence the name, together by a backing of leather and chainmail binding. The metal plates protect the vital areas and the leather and chain function as support and also provide protection for the joints. Along with the armor, Lance has fashioned gauntlets sized for his massive hands. This particular suit is special for a few reasons. The first is that the armor is constructed for a massive man, likely being far too large for any other person. Secondly, using a series of straps and buckles, Lance has fashioned the armor to be easily donned and removed, taking far less time than other armors of its caliber. Finally, and unbeknownst to Lance himself, his effort in the armor's creation imbued it with some manner of Earth elemental enhancement. Exactly the extent of this power is not yet clear, but will likely develop more as Lance becomes aware of his own heritage. Similarly, his hammer "Megaton" also recieved some elemental blessing, but the actual powers have yet to be seen.


:❉: иobody is identical, so what's so different about you?
Very easily described as the "Strong but Silent" type, Lance embodies his Earthly heritage rather well. He is slow to act, but once he makes a decision, nothing short of divine intervention can deter him long from his goal. Lance tends to be quiet, reserved and outwardly seems cold, but he is loyal to his friends and literally would take many blows for them. Basically, he's tough and gruff on the outside, but once you get close to him, he'll be like a brother to you [a big, beefy, maul-wielding brother]. As far as leadership is concerned, Lance is neither a leader, nor a follower. He does his own thing, most of the time, at his own pace. He does work well in groups, though, and often proves to be an effective mediator between the rash and the reserved. Overall, Lance possesses a high degree of insight and thoughtfulness, but his overly serious nature can sometimes put others off. His philosophy for self-reliance makes him strong, but he also believes in protecting those who cannot protect themselves.

:❉: ι could do this without even lifting a finger!
Lance is incredibly strong and resilient. With bulging, forge-forged muscles and skin tough like the minerals he works with, he is able to lift terribly heavy objects and withstand a brutal amount of punishment. He is a skilled blacksmith and stoneworker by trade, taking up his family's tradition. His works of metal and stone are nearly unrivaled in the lands, as he has found himself to have a sort of affinity to his work, taking pride in each and every creation. What Lance views as his most prominent strong point, however, is his down-to-earth attitude towards everything. Through this philosophy, he thrives among the simple folk and noblemen alike, and he always keeps his calm through the most dire of situations. He has an immense amount of patience and is a masterful strategist, considering a thoroughly thought out plan the best way to handle everything.


:❉: ғlaws aren't all that bad - it just depends on how you use them.
Lance is very reserved, speaking only when he deems necessary, and that can, at times, be the wrong time to speak or be silent. Additionally, due to his massive bulk and straightforwardness, Lance is often slow to react and acts in a rather predictable manner when he finally does. Finally, what he considers to be his greatest strong point often tends to be his greatest drawback as well. His down-to-earth mentality often leaves little room for abstract thinking. He isn't one of those "Why go through all that when I can just hit it with my hammer?" types [he is not stupid, by any account], but he's not much when it comes to out of this world ideas. Often, his penchant for planning annoys and upsets those looking for a quicker path to a solution.


:❉: тhe past can either be a part of you or make you... so let's hear yours.
Born to Mason and Cadence Stone and dubbed "Lanzo," Lance had a simple upbringing. His family resided in a small, but prosperous mining town, and it was there they received their name 'Stone.' Lance had two younger sisters, Aurora and Evelyn. His mother was a simple woman, preferring to remain home and look after the house. Lance's father, and his father before him, and so on, all were tremendously skilled smiths, stoneworkers, and stonemasons. At a young age, Lance had shown to be skilled with the smith's hammer and so followed in his family's traditions. Though he showed exceptional skill for smithing, Lance was also very skilled, almost commanding, in other stoneworking positions. His old fashioned name "Lanzo" was often replaced by a more common name "Lance," especially by his close friends. His customers know him as "Steele," for his aptitude for metalworking is unrivaled. Thus, 'Steele Stone' made quite the reputation for himself as a master craftsman of all things mineral-based. He even had an eye for gem cutting and appraisal. Lance finds the most comfort, however, at work by the anvil, pounding away at his next creation. He never thought of himself as anything but an extraordinary stone and metal worker, his ties to the Earth element still a mystery to him.

Recently, Lance's father, Mason, had passed away, leaving him responsible for his mother and two younger sisters. He worked the forge tirelessly to provide for his family, accepting requests from adventurers and nobles for the higher commission. The current state of affairs in the world unsettled him, as with any other person, but Lance often had plenty on his plate to keep him occupied. In fact, with all the talk of war brewing, his business prepared to boon, as the demand for weapons and armor rose throughout the kingdom. As such, and since he now held himself responsible for the safety and protection of his family, Lance began to train himself in the arts of combat. He forged himself a massive maul, which he dubbed "Megaton", wielding it nearly effortlessly, as if it were an extension of his being. When he was not slaving away at the forge, he would be training himself for martial combat. If it ever came to it, he had to be sure he could protect his family.

To this day, Lance continues to work at the forge and on other projects around the quarry. He still provides for his mother, Cadence, and one sister, Evelyn, the other having married off into another family. Lance has become exceptionally proficient with "Megaton" and has even forged himself a personalized set of banded armor. He still trains for combat, but finds himself too busy these days, with the increasing number of smithing orders.


:❉: ωith all of this in mind, say one thing that is important to know about you that was somehow missed.
Despite his uncanny strength, physical prowess, and physique, Lance is unable to swim. It isn't that he is too weak or lacks the knowledge how, but that his body is simply too dense, and therefore, he sinks, like a stone. The first such incident concerning this occurred when Lance was but seven years of age. The second and last incident occurred when he was fifteen years old. Never again did he attempt to swim and he tends to stay as far from large bodies of water as he can.


:❉: вehind the curtain is the master at work...
Xen-Zanbato

¤¸¸.·´¯`·.¸·

...will you be able to fulfill it?

.｡.✿ இ ✿.｡.

* If they say pending, you are allowed to still apply for them. The best one will get the spot. It just means that I'm waiting for an application from someone.

[~::*Shinji*::~]

.｡.Humans.｡.

Now, you're probably wondering why we're allowing human applications in the first place since this is about the elementals. And yes, that is true... however, they are supposedly normal people before realizing their abilities, and they're supposed to be rare/one-of-a-kind, so to speak. So basically, we need the common folk! We are hoping for at least three humans, but no more than four. If you have a specific idea concerning them as in how to incorporate them in the story, either send me a PM or just fill out a profile and I'll see if it'll work. =)

Same profile and requirements apply, except for the symbol/mark part.

>> Human #1 <<

׺°” Andrei Rofocale Sergov ”°º×

Born to serve a purpose...

.¸¸·´¯`·.¸¸¤

:❉: ωhat were you dubbed as by your parents? Andrei Rofocale Sergov

:❉: αny special titles? Or just what's on the birth certificate? General Sergov, commander

:❉: ωhen the doctor saw you for the first time, he exclaimed, "It's a boy !"

:❉: ℓet's count those candles! 1, 2, 3... 30

:❉: єveryone has that special day... October 29

:❉: ωhat kind of genes created what you are today? Human

:❉: ιf we were to take a snapshot of this very moment, you would look like this: If you live to take it...

:❉: αside from that, let's hear how you would describe yourself. 6'7", I tend to tower over most people. I've been said to possess a sleek, sinewy build, an aura colder than liquid nitrogen and a perpetual stick up my my rear and spine. Contrary to belief, I've had silvery-white hair ever since I was a child, and purplish irises. Rare genes perhaps, but my unchangeable appearance isn't of any use to me. I am in formal, military clothing most of the time, a dark-colored uniform with silver or golden trims, depending on the occasion.

:❉: тhis world isn't completely safe, so how do you go about defending yourself? I've basic training in some weapons, but I use single-handed broadswords best of all. My current favorite is a non-ornamental basket-hilted sword, though I'm thinking of getting it replaced soon. Its getting too worn for me to trust it...

:❉: иobody is identical, so what's so different about you? I'm a mentalist; a pragmatic, methodical and self-controlled person. I'm said to be very good strategist, though I've hardly had the chance to be engaged in any real warfare, only things like suppressing uprisings and rebels, eliminating bandit organizations and flushing out gangs. Some say that I'm actually looking forward to a war, but well, that's speculation. I expect absolute obedience and loyalty from my subordinates. I don't care if they think I'm a merciless b*****d. I do have my... particularities however, but that's for behind closed doors.

:❉: ι could do this without even lifting a finger!

Control; I'm not a person who rushes into action and I will persecute any soldier in my ranks who does so. I never drink or smoke while on duty unless it is for a celebratory occasion, but you'll never find me stumbling around half-drunk. Any desires I have are normally pushed aside in favor of my work.

Strategy; The distinguishing feature that got me promoted into officer school. My methods tend to be abrasive, decisive and merciless. As far as I am concerned, the government currently doesn't have the time or resources to babysit civilians or criminals who 'took the wrong trek when he was a child bla bla bla...' Anyone who poses a threat to the throne is to be crushed indefinitely. Needless to say, I am very good at chess.

Sensuality; I am appreciative of the good life. Behind a locked door, I fall asleep beneath silken sheets, with a glass of matured wine and the sacred texts. I enjoy classical strings and wind, though of course I can hardly play them. I'm not a romantic however, so don't bother wondering if I have a soft side.

:❉: ғlaws aren't all that bad - it just depends on how you use them.

Control; I detest insubordination or any question of my judgment. If I wanted alternatives I will ask you for it. Otherwise, the operation is to be carried out my way. Anyone who has a problem with this is to be transferred from my regiments immediately.

Desire; Every man has them. For me, its either a girl or boy too young to be considered acceptable, or a blood-soaked murder. I choose the latter most of the time. Nobody really cares if a criminal sentenced to death is going to die screaming by my hands. You can't expect the crown's guard dog to act like a fawning poodle all the time... instincts of its lupine blood need to be fulfilled. I can go for half a year at most, and then I'm back on the phone, whispering to the prison overseer.

:❉: тhe past can either be a part of you or make you... so let's hear yours.

I was not born in Osanen, which in itself is a stumbling block to my career. My first breath was taken in the outer skirts of the Empire, to the rural villages and tribes which were situated on the borders of the land. On the map these boundaries seem distinct, so neatly drawn in ink and wax, but out on the land and in the wild, these seem superficial. The tribe I belonged to were hunters and gatherers, herding goats and deer, never settling in one place at a time. I lived a harsh, fulfilling childhood with my parents, learning to live off the land with my own hands and feet.

That childhood did not last. In my early teenage years, we fell victim to bandits. Once the tribe leader had heard the news from the nearest village, we were to pack our bags and be on our way. It was a foiled attempt to escape their grasp, for their horses outran us and our livestock. Anyone who opposed them were killed, toddlers and babies were disposed of, women were separated to be marched back to the pillaged village we had fled from or taken on the ground. They bound us and divided us up, to march us to the neighboring countries where we were to be sold. Children stayed with the livestock, riding on the backs of the deer or herding them along in the direction our captors wanted. I was one of the few who was old enough to withstand the trek, yet too young to be sold with the other man to work in the mines.

It seemed the slower pace of the docile deer and goats was what saved me from slavery in the end. The King's military forces from Osanen caught up with the bandits who were guarding us and cut them down easily. On hindsight, this was a horrible failure, but at that time, I was all too eager to immortalize the soldiers. I never got to see my parents or the rest of the tribe again, they had disappeared into the borders of other nations and kingdoms. I spent a brief time in an orphanage with the rest of the children, recieved basic education and then I jumped at the chance to enrol into military school.

My boyish hopes were soon dashed to pieces when I realized the corruption interwoven into Osanen's ruling class and military. It was pure luck and favor of the training camp's captain that got me transferred into officer school, and since my graduation it has been merit that allowed me to become a general. It might sound grand to a commoner, but as it stands I have little political standing and I'm one of the lowest-ranked of the senior officers. I may have made a few friends in the royal court and the nobility, but the number of enemies I've made may well be a hundred times over. It doesn't help that I command two thousand men at most, less than a third of a general's normal forces, but I can't help tossing out the useless fools.

And the rest of it... cannot be written on paper. That's all you get to know about me.

:❉: ωith all of this in mind, say one thing that is important to know about you that was somehow missed. I like horses and dogs, but most of all, I love deer. You could almost call it a caribou fetish. If you want to get on my good side, send me some venison, or a rug, or a real stag. -cough- Of course a good sword works just as well...

:❉: вehind the curtain is the master at work... Isnook2

¤¸¸.·´¯`·.¸·

...will you be able to fulfill it?

.｡.✿ இ ✿.｡.

>> Human #2 <<

׺°” Shaena Lusk”°º×

Born to serve a purpose...

.¸¸•´¯`•.¸¸¤

:❉: ωhat were you dubbed as by your parents?
Shaena Lusk

:❉: αny special titles? Or just what's on the birth certificate?
Depends on what you want. Friends call me Shae, but those who require my services ask for Miss Cheshire.

:❉: ωhen the doctor saw you for the first time, he exclaimed,
"It's a girl!"

:❉: ℓet's count those candles! 1, 2, 3...
23

:❉: єveryone has that special day...
August 4

:❉: ωhat kind of genes created what you are today?
Human

:❉: ιf we were to take a snapshot of this very moment, you would look like this:
Not bad, eh?

:❉: αside from that, let's hear how you would describe yourself.
At a cheery 5’9”, I’m tall enough to not to get lost in the crowd, which is essential for my job. My hair’s short enough to scandalize half the population, while the obnoxious blue takes care of the other half. My body is crisscrossed with a multitude of proudly displayed scars, though most are from when I was young enough and stupid enough to feel immortal.

:❉: тhis world isn't completely safe, so how do you go about defending yourself?
Now, do you really expect little ol’ me to be running around with weapons? Other than the occasional dagger on my person. Oh, and I suppose a couple of tranquilizers could do some damage if I used a lot of them. I personally am of the opinion that there is nothing that a good whack in the nose and a lot of rope can’t solve.

:❉: иobody is identical, so what's so different about you?
I’m a cheerful kind of girl, though you shouldn’t think that means the same as happy. Smiles are free after all, and being grumpy doesn’t pay the bills. I guess I’m also a bit of a braggart, but if you’ve got it, flaunt it, and if you don’t, then deal. Some would say I’m ruthless, conniving and sneaky, but those are only the ones who’ve tried to get out of their half of the bargain. Or I’ve caught them abusing animals. Though they mostly call me monster...

:❉: ι could do this without even lifting a finger!
When it comes to attracting a crowd, no one can beat me. Getting enough customers to keep me fed is easy as pie, and I’ve got enough charisma to sooth the rowdiest of mobs. I’m also know more ways of getting in and out of this city than a chef knows how to cook an egg. What really makes me stand out though, is my skill with animals.

:❉: ғlaws aren't all that bad - it just depends on how you use them.
I don’t like conflicts, so I’m a bit reluctant about sticking my nose in other people’s business. I also have a tendency to avoid arguments, and I’m all too willing to give in if it means calming people down. Of course, this doesn’t mean I’m just a yes man. It just means a little twisting of my words and pretending to play along until I can get out. Some would call it lying, but hey, I’m truthful where it counts! If anything, you’ll never have to worry something going unfinished when I’m on the job.

:❉: тhe past can either be a part of you or make you... so let's hear yours.
I was born and raised in this city, or at least I lived here for the first years of my life until father deemed I was old enough to come travelling with him. He was a merchant, one of the best, and he used to travel all throughout the empire, establishing trade agreements and finding new markets for goods. Of course, then he met mother, and for a while he tried settling down for a bit, having others do the adventuring for him. Unfortunately, dear old mum died during childbirth, and she was really the only thing tying dad down. He waited a few years for me to be weaned and learn how to walk, and then we were off.

I probably visited more parts of the kingdom in those first years of life than most people learn about in a lifetime. From busy cities and bustling ports, to tiny villages and groups of nomads, I met them all and made friends accordingly. I’d been charming even then, and father taught me a merchant’s rules ever since I was in the crib, but what really made me friends was my way with the animals. Dogs, cats, sheep, geese, even the rowdiest animal would quiet at a word from me. Father worried a bit, since it wasn’t quite right for a merchant to greet animals before people, but most of the people we met were so charmed by my antics that father could get almost any price he wanted. By the time I’d turned eight, there was nothing I couldn’t handle, or so I thought.

Bandits struck when I was nine. I was asleep when it happened, tired from a romp with the goats. By the time I awoke, father was lying in a pool of his blood and one of them had grabbed me by the arm and thrown me on the ground. To tell the truth, what came next was a little blurry. All I knew was that they were trying to decide what they should do with me when I started talking. My first attempt at smooth talking was a bit of a mess, but I’m pretty sure there was something about charming animals, soothing wild beasts, being able to stop monsters in their tracks with just a glance. They all laughed of course, but the leader of them was curious. Apparently, there was an especially magnificent golden tiger in a forest not far from here. They would send me in, and I was to lure the tiger out so they could kill it and sell its parts.

Well, I certainly went in that forest, and I did come out with a tiger. Things didn’t go according to plan after that though. More like the tiger tore half the bandits apart while the other half ran off screaming bloody murder. Her power fascinated me, despite the fact that she’d given me my own wound for surprising her. I still have that scar stretching from my right shoulder down to my left hip, a reminder of the power the animal kingdom wields. After wreaking havoc on my captors, the tiger bid me farewell and headed back home. I just bandaged myself up and started walking

The stakes just got higher from there. Bigger animals, risks, bigger payoff. Not that I judge an animal by size, of course. Some of the tiniest things savaged me within an inch of my life, and you never know when you’ll come across something a little more…mythical. I slowly made my way back to the city where I was born, making contacts all the way, of course. By the time I arrived back home, I was quite a few years older, and a whole lot smarter. I made the right friends, fetched myself an assistant, and before long I opened my little stall, a pet shop on the outside, but so much more underneath.

It’s all those friends I made, don’t you know? Breeders, hunters, explorers, stuff like that. All those beautiful animals that our beautiful laws say can’t enter this beautiful city. Of course, when you spend all your free time finding out about your hometown, you tend to find a few ways to sneak things in. So come to Shaena’s Menagerie, and ask for Miss Cheshire, if you want to see our special stock. I promise you won’t be disappointed.

:❉: ωith all of this in mind, say one thing that is important to know about you that was somehow missed.
I really do like hazelnuts. In the shells please, half the fun is snapping them open. Oh, and don't abuse my merchandise. I will track you down, and that isn't fun at all, no?

:❉: вehind the curtain is the master at work...
Brethil24

¤¸¸.•´¯`•.¸•

...will you be able to fulfill it?

.｡.✿ இ ✿.｡.

>> Human #3 <<

׺°” Daisuke Alexandre Tatsurabi”°º×

Born to serve a purpose...

.¸¸·´¯`·.¸¸¤

:❉: ωhat were you dubbed as by your parents?
Daisuke Alexandre Tatsurabi

:❉: αny special titles? Or just what's on the birth certificate?
Suke to my friends. Frostbite to my enemies.

:❉: ωhen the doctor saw you for the first time, he exclaimed,
"It's a boy!"

:❉: ℓet's count those candles! 1, 2, 3...
More like twenty-three.

:❉: єveryone has that special day...
December 20th.

:❉: ωhat kind of genes created what you are today?
Human.

:❉: ιf we were to take a snapshot of this very moment, you would look like this:
Handsome, aren't I?

:❉: αside from that, let's hear how you would describe yourself.
Well, people have said I cut a pretty imposing figure - about 6'2'', with a sleek yet muscular build and a proverbial gaze of steel. I'm wearing my favorite clothing in the picture - elegant enough to wear to a formal ball, yet it allows me to move freely in case things go sour at the worst possible moment.

Oh, and don't tell anyone else this, but... I personally dye my hair a dark blue. I figure, hey, it suits me, so why not run with it?

:❉: тhis world isn't completely safe, so how do you go about defending yourself?
Although I'm fairly proficient in all types of weapons, the lance is my personal favorite. However, I keep a short sword on my hip, just in case things get up close and personal.

:❉: иobody is identical, so what's so different about you?
Witty, sarcastic, and a deliciously dark sense of humor... that's what you'll get from me at first. Hey, I never said I was the nicest guy in the world, now was I? Besides, in my line of work, you don't have the time, energy, and patience to be nice to people. If I find you're worthy of said time, energy, and patience, however, you'll find I'm not a bad guy to be around. Sure, I'll still make the occasional biting remark or two, but at least you won't have to worry about my lance being stuck up your rear, now do you?

:❉: ι could do this without even lifting a finger!
* Well, to start off with... I was always pretty agile throughout my whole life. And while you won't find me scaling walls anytime soon, I've been able to work my natural agility into my fighting style.

* Secondly, people have described me as "charismatic". While I can't really claim to have led massive groups of people, bound by a single ideal, I do have a knack for being able to fast-talk my way of out pretty sticky situations.

* Finally, I'm pretty intelligent and perceptive, and am able to pick up new skills pretty easily.

:❉: ғlaws aren't all that bad - it just depends on how you use them.
* For starters, a pretty woman will make me stop dead in my tracks. I tend to fall for looks pretty damn easily, which leads me to be more inclined to do more favors for women. Don't think you can take advantage of me, however...

* Although I love combat as much as the next guy, I tend to be a bit... how do you say... overzealous about it? What can I say, there's nothing like the adrenaline rush and near-death experiences!

* Finally, I can tend to be a bit greedy when it comes to certain things, such as: Money, Women, Fine food and drink, and cute, fluffy things.

Don't judge me.

:❉: тhe past can either be a part of you or make you... so let's hear yours.
Well... where to begin, where to begin?

I wasn't really too close to my parents - Father was some ranked officer in the Emperor's army, and Mother worked as a medic, so I never really got to see them all that much. Most of the time, I stayed with my uncle Shiro - who was pretty nice before the incident. You see, when I was about five, we got a letter - hand-delivered from another officer. I was too young to understand what that meant at the time, but as soon as Uncle started weeping, I intrinsically knew that both of my parents had died. Apparently, they perished while trying to hold off a raid on a smaller, neighboring village. They died with honor, the people said. They died in the most altruistic, most selfless way two people could die.

Well, I wish they could have given Uncle Shiro some of that honor from beyond the grave. You see, he started hitting the bottle pretty heavily after my parents' death. And when an alcoholic, grief-stricken man is placed in the same house with an innocent, curious nine year-old boy... well, some bad things tend to happen. After two years more years, I couldn't take it anymore. So one day, I stole the rest of his money, packed up what little belongings I had, and just up and left.

I'd go into more details, but I can see you're already getting bored with my sob story. So I'll sum up the rest of it for you - I've been pretty much wandering the land since then. I've gone from a yojng homeless boy to teenage burglar to adult mercenary... and I've built quite a reputation for myself. So if you ever need my services, listen on the streets, and you'll occasionally hear whispers of "Frostbite". Follow the whispers, and you'll find me...

:❉: ωith all of this in mind, say one thing that is important to know about you that was somehow missed.
The name "Frostbite" actually has a story behind it. So one night, I'm on an assignment - small village wants me to take down some bandit warlord. Anyway, I do the deed... but it's damn cold and confusing up in the mountains, and I get lost for three days. I finally make it back to the village, starving and with a nasty case of - you guessed it - frostbite. I recovered, of course, but the villagers got to calling me Mr. Frostbite, and I guess the name just stuck.

:❉: вehind the curtain is the master at work...
arcanejalx

¤¸¸.·´¯`·.¸·

...will you be able to fulfill it?

.｡.✿ இ ✿.｡.

Human #4 >> Open

[~::*Shinji*::~]

.｡.✿ Ӑ 𝖓 𝖓 𝖔 𝖚 𝖓 𝖈 𝖊 𝖒 𝖊 𝖓 𝖙 𝖘 ✿.｡.

9/3/09 ~ The thread is officially open! ^__^

11/15/09 ~ Due to some complications, Dragon_Lord_Akuma will no longer be one of the GMs of this RP, so I will be the only ruler as of now.

[~::*Shinji*::~]

~ Current Information ~

Day # >> 2

Season >> Summer

Time of Day >> Morning (somewhere between 7-9 AM)

Weather >> Overcast/cloudy with scattered showers, though still slightly warm (somewhat cooler than the previous day due to the lack of sun and the rain)

[Suddenly There Were Ducks]

Achenar Todra - Darkness

Outside the capital city of the Empire of Osanen, a young man of about twenty-three years sat near one of the rolling countryside's many babbling rivers. It was warm that day, but not oppressively hot. The young man smiled, seeming to be relishing the feeling of the sun on his skin.

Next to him, propped against an outcropping of rocks, was a thin rod of oak, his makeshift fishing rod. He had been making his daily rounds through the fields surrounding Osanen when we was struck by sudden and unrelenting hunger. Being an eater by nature, he resolved that he wouldn't travel another step until he'd had food. He fashioned a rod from a stick of oak and some twine, sat down near the river, and proceeded to wait for a bite.

He shut his eyes and began to doze in the sun, letting his mind wander to the wanted posters he'd seen all over town that morning. A spy... Here! Infiltrating the Empire he had sworn to protect! It was unacceptable to him.

are you afraid of the dark?

[Isnook2]

Andrei Rofocale Sergov
xxxxxxxxI want your obedience.
xxxxxxxxxxxI want your absolute loyalty.
xxxxxxxxxxxxxxI want your soul. Relinquish control to me.

Give yourself unto your God. Sacrifice yourself again.
Burn your thoughts, erase your will, To Gods of suffering and tears.

A pair of cold steel-blue eyes watched the outside world with detached apathy, long slender fingers having drawn aside the thick crimson drapes from the closed windows. The satin was heavy, but its weight barely registered in his mind as he made way for the light to stream into the dark room. When he found no one else in the private domain he bent to lift a long rectangular case from the floor, setting it down atop an old piano bench. The case itself was relatively old, but it bore little dust upon it, having probably been cleaned prior to being stationed in the room. Dexterous fingers flipped the safety catches of the box, swinging the lid open to reveal the weapon nestled in the satin, cheap silks and soft cushions.

The basket-hilted sword was seemingly unimpressive, its metal carrying an aged sheen oxidized over half a century or so. Despite its well-crafted hilt, it was a plain-looking sword, devoid of gems or gilded metal. He had managed to get a knowledgeable weapons dealer to polish its hilt, but the metal on the blade remained as tainted as his soul. A piece of yellow paper remained attached between the guard and the sheath, marked with the jet-black strokes of a brush and the reddened ink of a octagonal stamp. The oriental talisman made him smirk, and a simple tug with his nail tore the spelled paper in half so that he could unsheathe the sword with a single stroke. His ears delighted in the sound of the metal as it sprang free of the scabbard, the song it sang hollow and short-lived. It was heavier than a rapier, its edges already marked with scratches and certainly blunter than a kitchen knife, but as a sword made for warfare he was certain that a well-aimed swing could take off a limb or a head.

After some experimental swings and jabs in the darkness away from the door he finally sheathed it, crumpling the remains of the talisman and tossing it aside into the shadows of the room. When the sword hung at his side he felt a little more at ease, even if it was not the same child he was so used to wielding in the past year or so. Well, now to go hunting... both you and I little one...

Ensuring that the dust wasn't clinging to his clothes or shoes, he stepped out and shut the door behind him, walking away from the storeroom with slow firm strides while he slipped on some black gloves. It wasn't often that he found time or reason to go walking about in the dusty streets of the commoners, but a commodore had passed him some information about a particularly-skilled weapon-smith, and the man had decided to see for himself, if it was better to source his blade from somewhere other than the suppliers of the imperial guard.




Tie hallowed bonds around your hands. xxx
Kneel before this seat of shame,xxx
To Gods as lost,xxx
Gods as blind,xxx
Gods of suffering and pain.xxx

[XenZan]

Lance Stone ~ Earth

It was hot. The midday sun was beating down upon the land with near murderous intent. The grass was surely burning and blood was surely boiling. That’s how Lance felt anyway. Despite the cloud cover and mildly warm temperature, Lance had worked up quite the sweat. He stood over an anvil, the forge roaring behind him. Wearing only trousers and thick boots and gloves, the hulking smith pounded away at what appeared to be a sword in the making. He often neglected to don his apron, but the scalding sparks hardly bothered him. After a few more deft swings with the hammer, the beast of a man stepped back to admire his work, stroking his sweaty beard.

The blade was shaping up finely. The edge was keen and the blade straight. Nodding to himself, Lance wiped the sweat from his brow with his arm. Setting the hammer down on the anvil, the smith reached for a large pair of tongs, using them to pick up the sword and drop it in a barrel full of water close by. He’d go about the details of that one later. As for now, he set the tongs down next to the hammer and went to the forge to begin the process anew. Lance had been at it all morning, his rippling muscles yet to tire.

Drawing another deformed blade from a pile at the forge, he set it on the anvil. Lance looked at the hammer then, recalling it as the very same smithing tool used by his father. Shaking away the thought, he began to pound away on the new piece of metal. Over the clanking of hammer on steel, Steele could hear the bustling capitol city around him. His forge was situated outdoors, as he preferred to work with his feet firmly on the dirt. That, and he hated how stuffy it became indoors with the forge. The sounds from the streets were often drowned out by the noise of the forge and the pounding of metal on metal, but the massive smith had heard the rumors. A spy… Such unsettling news was on the tongue of every man, woman, and even child these days.

An enormous hammer leaned against the forge, within arm’s reach of the smith. There was no possibility it was merely a tool for smelting or smithing. It was carved with intricate symbols, the meaning of which not even its creator knew. Beneath his heavy work gloves, the symbol on Lance’s left hand glowed faintly, as it always did when he was at work with metal and stone. It was something he never understood, but came to accept over the years.

All of his thinking had caused him to lose track of how many times he had hit the would-be sword, and he stopped, standing up straight. Running his free hand through his beard again, sparks falling out of it, he furled his brow in contemplation.

Skips like a boulder

[Sothis]

xoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxo๑ ∂ α ι ʏ υ ℓ α ɴ
xoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxe l e m e n t a l i s t xo f xα ι ʀ

"'Go to the market!' she says. Really, must she be so obvious?" Daiyu Lan mused of her mother's unfortunate habit to try and arrange 'chance' meetings with suitors she found suitable for her eldest daughter. Daiyu hadn't failed to avoid one yet; yet her mother persisted at this pointless game. At least it gave her a chance to meander where she pleased without constant nagging from her mother or harassment from her siblings. Amused by the thought, the woman lifted the trailing hem of her Han out of the way as she descended a few steps from the gateway out of the city. She didn't particularly want to be inside the city, not now; wanted posters were plastered everywhere, and the city was ablaze with rumors and zealots on witch hunts already. Holding her bangasa - the traditional paper parasol, oiled to make waterproof - the woman cast one glance over her shoulder at the city, before lifting her Han to her knees and moving with great celerity away from the city.

It was unbecoming, and severely frowned upon, for a woman to carry a weapon, much less use one; so, for any chance at practicing with her Iaito Iai sword (concealed neatly in the handle of her bangasa) she had to leave the city and its prying eyes. Humming softly to herself, the dark-haired woman followed her usual path, finding an even stretch of ground concealed by hills on all sides. She began to undo the sash that tied the robe of her Han in place, but had a nagging feeling of a nearby presence. Frowning, she retied her sash, lifted her parasol back into place, and skirted the base of the hill to look around. Surely enough, there was a man sleeping there, a fisherman if she guessed right. Unusual hair. Daiyu mused and began to murmur a soft greeting, before realizing she shouldn't disturb the man. He was a stranger to her after all, and he probably wouldn't want to be woken up.

╭__________________________________________________╮
Of course I ƒ σ ʀ ɢ ι v ε; you've seen how ι ℓ ι v ε
I've got ∂ α ʀ ҡ ɴ ε s s and ƒ ε α ʀ s to α ρ ρ ε α s ε
my ν σ ι c ε s and α ɴ α ℓ σ ɢ ι ε s
α м в ι т ι σ ɴ s like ʀ ι в в σ ɴ s
worn в ʀ ι ɢ h т on my s ℓ ε ε v ε
╰__________________________________________________╯

[Suddenly There Were Ducks]

Achenar Todra - Darkness

The young man's eyes shot open, his vibrant green eyes darting left, right, and then left again. Though he had formally resigned his commission after the death of the Emperor, years of intensive work with the Imperial Grand Army had left it's mark on him. The crinkle of sun-baked grass, the soft rustling of fabric, and the faintest beginnings of an exclamation... All the hallmark signs that he was no longer alone, and Achenar Todra did not miss a one.

In an instant, he was up, climbing to one knee and reaching for his short scabbard as he looked around rapidly. He didn't spot Daiyu, for as tuned as his ears were to the sounds of a stranger's approach, his brain was sleep dazed and sluggish; he assumed the sounds had come from across the river, not from the base of the hill behind him.

"Who's there?" He called out tentatively.

are you afraid of the dark?

[Isnook2]

Andrei Rofocale Sergov
xxxxxxxxI want your obedience.
xxxxxxxxxxxI want your absolute loyalty.
xxxxxxxxxxxxxxI want your soul. Relinquish control to me.

Give yourself unto your God. Sacrifice yourself again.
Burn your thoughts, erase your will, To Gods of suffering and tears.

Oh such foreign yet familiar chaos! It had been quite some time since he had experienced the baying of livestock, the garbled speech of frenzied tradesmen and the thick, cloying scent of spice and perfume that clashed in the streets of town. Memories surfaced from the sea of organized rigidity which had become a part of his military life. The smell of dung, fur, sweat and wood tickled his nose, and by the time the lone general had made it past the center of the trade district, a fine film of dust had coated his polished black boots. The heels of his shoes scrunched on the sand and pebbles as he turned into a less-crowded lane, and the breeze blew a thick fog of heat into his face, threatening to dry his eyes and assault them with smoke. The sonorous sound of clashing metal and stone assured him that he had made the correct turn, the commander having already memorized the note that his friend had written for him.

Lanzo Stone, son of Mason Stone, seemed to be more than three times his size and weight, but the general did not flinch or hesitate as he made his way toward the workshop. He stood there quietly, studying the smith hard at work, noting the rippling muscles and the well-defined creases in the skin that shaped the heavy, masculine figure. The back of one wrist rested lightly on the sword tethered to his belt while he waited patiently for the worker accord him attention or take a break from his task. He spoke only when there was a length of peace, having no wish to raise his voice over the song of the hammer and the sword-in-making.

"Lanzo Stone?" The silver-haired man questioned in a rich, lilting baritone, though the nuances of his voice made it somewhat obvious that he was certain he had found the right man. "Do you have any finished works for viewing?" The general wasted little time with small talk. He wanted to view some samples, if any, of the smith's creations, though it was possible that he had limited time to spare as well.




Tie hallowed bonds around your hands. xxx
Kneel before this seat of shame,xxx
To Gods as lost,xxx
Gods as blind,xxx
Gods of suffering and pain.xxx

[Sothis]

xoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxo๑ ∂ α ι ʏ υ ℓ α ɴ
xoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxe l e m e n t a l i s t xo f xα ι ʀ

Daiyu hadn't expected to have been heard; she always moved softly and swiftly, nearly silent in everything she did. This man was well trained, or extremely over-aware of his surroundings. Neither were good things in her mind, and either way he was armed. Yet, he looked across the river, not at her, and she was surprised at the certain amount of smugness this brought her. Even with his awareness, she'd managed to avoid exact detection. Yes, the thought did please her, quite a bit. The concept of being both silent and swift appealed to her immensely. Now though, she had two options at this point: turn and flee, or introduce herself and act like the gracious and polite woman she was trained to be. Though she would've preferred option one, she elected two, sighing softly under her breath.

"Pardon me. I did not mean to wake you." Keeping her voice soft and polite, Daiyu stepped from around the hill into his line of sight, and bowed. "I hadn't expected someone this far from the city walls. Most fishermen just stick by the city port." She kept her eyes downcast, never glancing up. She did not recognize this man with his oddly-colored hair; perhaps he was the spy the city was alight with rumors of? It could explain his over-awareness and hostility. Not many fishermen she knew of carried swords, and drew them immediately with such ease. She wasn't sure how much of a chance she would stand against someone formally experienced in combat, but, hand locked tightly around her parasol, she kept ready to draw her own weapon. "Forgive me for interrupting your slumber."

╭__________________________________________________╮
Of course I ƒ σ ʀ ɢ ι v ε; you've seen how ι ℓ ι v ε
I've got ∂ α ʀ ҡ ɴ ε s s and ƒ ε α ʀ s to α ρ ρ ε α s ε
my ν σ ι c ε s and α ɴ α ℓ σ ɢ ι ε s
α м в ι т ι σ ɴ s like ʀ ι в в σ ɴ s
worn в ʀ ι ɢ h т on my s ℓ ε ε v ε
╰__________________________________________________╯