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 Posted: Tue Feb 22, 2011 4:08 am
  Envy shoots at others and wounds itself. Envy prevents joy. | Altonair Wood |
Prince of Envy  *~Location: Solarium, then outside Altonair's quarters -- With: Max, Soren, Mary, Amber~*
He saw it coming, he did. Evony would have the most pained reaction, he guessed. He was right. Too right. Her swift departure instinctively made him ready himself to take off after her, though Nathaniel gestured to all in the room to let her be. Altonair, very hesitant to do so, decided to follow his elder brother's advice. He felt responsible for her negative response, as he knew that seeing Max in this state was probably not the best idea he had. Still, he had to let his siblings know that Max had returned to them.
Gods damn you, Altonair! You should have done....something, to make this re-introduction go smoother. his mental berating was a common thing in situations such as this. He was open to the idea of taking the blame for the outcome of the event, as he felt that was how it should be.
Max did not burst into tears or show any obvious signs of sadness at his sister's reaction, but rather looked up at Altonair and whispered, "Oops." Altonair merely patted his back and sighed.
Altonair faced Nathaniel as he asked him a question, to which Altonair hesitantly nodded his head. "The old codger has a way of abusing his power in the worst ways."
----------------------------
Time skip
----------------------------
After a brief exchange of words with Nathaniel that let him know the full details of his wish, the three Envian siblings had exchanged some small talk before Max pointed out that he still had Altonair's coat in his possession. Seeking to make he and Max presentable again, he excused himself from Nathaniel, asking that they meet up at his room later on to continue their talk. At least, when they were more presentable.
Soren and Mary were asked to come along by Altonair, for safety reasons (again). Not that he minded: it was never a bad idea to speak with a knight and a servant, at least, to him it didn't seem like a bad idea.
And Amber, who had still not introduced herself to Altonair yet, had remained silent. The moment she had seen Altonair, she shyly nodded her head at him. And when they all headed to Altonair's quarters, she remained outside, making small, nervous chat with Soren and her friend, Mary.
And there they were, in Altonair's quarters. Altonair had already collected his new clothing while Max was watching his elder brother with youthful curiosity. "Thanks for the new clothes and bath, Alto! Though, I am still a bit hungry..." "You're not taking a nibble out of another elf, Max. Now finish the rest of your apple."
Altonair had a servant bring a nice pair of clothing to him, for Max. Max now wore a dark green long sleeved tunic that hid his hands in his sleeves (He preferred it that way), black trousers that were also a bit loose fitting for him, and white socks that fit his feet rather snugly. Max wished to remain without shoes, as he rather enjoyed being 'free'. The bath he took had washed away the blood and soiled stains of his body, the loose rotting flesh that could easily come off now removed. Although cuts and small bits of ruined skin were still visible and off-putting, at least he wasn't still bleeding and decomposing visibly. His dirty hair was also washed, the long tresses pulled back into a ponytail. Despite what Altonair had done for his appearance, his still grayed skin and hollowed appearance was still quite frightening. Still, it was better than the rotting look from before.
Altonair, on the other hand, opted to change a little more than just his clothing. He had trimmed his hair a bit so that it wasn't as long. Like he had done a few days before, he combed his hair back similarly like Nathaniel had done. He was growing rather used to it. His clothing, in his opinion, was nothing short of presentable. A dark coat once again covered a white undershirt, but the clothing seemed much darker than his previous wear, and smoother as well. His new, darker trousers matched his coat perfectly. His trademark white gloves once again found their way onto his hands, his hidden blades hidden away again in his sleeves.
The shine of the blades as they slid into his sleeves caught Max's attention. "Alto...why do you need those?" he asked quietly, his voice now tinting into concern. Altonair flinched slightly, not expecting Max to notice his blades. "....Protection." he said simply, not facing his brother. He was not about to let his baby brother divulge further into the use of his blades. He didn't want his brother to see him as a murderer or thug.
"Yeah, but what-" "Max. Please. I don't want to discuss this with you at the moment. Just know that they are mine." the elder prince pained to be so stoic to Max, but it had to be done. Max was already somewhat dead, and to have the knowledge that Altonair has the tools to kill someone must of had a profound effect on Max's image of him. He didn't want to tarnish Max's memory of him any further.
"Come on now, Max. Dame Soren and Servant Mary are waiting for us outside, along with that shy green woman. Nathaniel should be arriving at any moment now."
Meanwhile, Amber was nervously waiting for Altonair to emerge from his quarters. With her brief chat with Soren and her friend Mary, Amber had gotten to know them a bit better. She probed the two for some little tidbits of information regarding Altonair, to find out what he has been up to.
"Ah, so it seems Altonair hasn't changed too much then. That's certainly nice." The evergreen hoped aloud, not really minding if Soren caught on to her. She had already decided that Altonair would not be interested in courting Soren, so she decided against worrying what Soren would think of her intentions.
The door opened, to which Altonair and Max walked out looking presentable. Amber was subdued by Altonair's presence. "Our apologies. We didn't mean to take so long." "Won't happen again!" Max promised happily, his empty eyes traveling from each person in an attempt to seem genuine.
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Posted: Tue Feb 22, 2011 9:08 am
♬ Ίτ'ȿ ʟΊӃЄ ɱμȘΊϹ τѺ ɱУ ЄɑɌȘ... ♫ Ҭɑηтяɑ ♪ Kingdom: Humility Rank: Priestess [In Training] Location: Forest. Still.
Tantra did not stop playing right away when she realized that the princess had awoken, instead she left her to her thoughts. She listened while playing, and only pulled the flute from her lips when the Astral Walker made his entrance. She waved him off with her hand and hopped down, her wings fluttering to keep her from landing too quickly. "It seems that it is not just Xard that wants something." She let out a hearty laugh at the jab towards Indigo.
"Anyways..." She sat near Madelyne, sitting and tucking her legs under her. "I was just going to say... I remember when you were 'killed'," She made the word killed seem as odd as she could. "The High Priestess and myself were there for your 'burial'," Again, the word burial just sounded weird. There was something wrong with all of this. "There was something weird about it, at first I thought everything was just strange, and not just because you... well she, was so young... It just seemed wrong. But the High Priestess also thought something was wrong..." She shrugged, "I thought that maybe if I was to say something, being as technically we are both children of the forest... You are basically a sister, not through blood of course... But, the earth would never forget it's child. No matter where you were born, no matter your title or nobility. You're it's child." She smiled at the princess as she spoke. "I thought that since I'm a Priestess, albeit in training, that maybe I could voice my opinion... Not sure how much good it would do, being as I look like a child... I'm sure they'll realize I'm a Fae, and much older than I look..."
She wasn't sure what would happen if she did say anything to the royals, but it was worth a try. "But whatever happens, it is worth a try... I'm sure the High Priestess would give her opinion on the matter, if she was asked..." She wasn't incredibly sure, the High Priestess didn't seem all that talkative lately.
...βʯʈ Ίʈ ȘЄЄɱȘ ѺɳʟУ Ί Ϲɑɳ ΗЄɑɌ...♬ 
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Posted: Tue Feb 22, 2011 10:46 am
Amarenth Soren "Sora" Hyuga Kingdom: Envy
Rank: Knight
Location: Before Time Skip: Solarium, I wish I could tell him, but I can't. After Time Skip: Outside Altonair's room, I wonder if Altonair can actually make Max look "normal".
Cross through the night
I looked down and lost my way
my light
There was nothing Soren could do. Evony had run off, and Natheniel had gestured for everyone to let her be. Even though, she didn't entirely like Natheniel, Soren obeyed his gesture. Sometimes, I wish I could tell him why I don't like him. But, I would be dragging back a part of my past that I wish to forget. If it wasn't for Natheniel's similiarity to her father, before he went mad, she would probably like him. However, due to her grudge towards her father, Soren couldn't make herself like Natheniel. Sometimes, I wish you didn't act like my father, Prince. Then, I would have no reason not to like you.
She watched as the exchange went between Altonair and Natheniel. Luckily for them, Max seemed unfazed by Evony's reaction. Soren could tell by the slight tugging at her sleeve, that Mary felt bad for Evony and Max. Her head looked down to the ground as Soren felt a bit of sympathy. She squeezed Mary's arm lightly as she thought about what they should do now.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Soren watched as the three siblings talked to one another. Mary had stayed silent most of the time. Probably too used to not being allowed to talk around nobles. I wish I could break that habit, but I don't have time for that now. She knew Mary would eventually leave the castle. It made Soren a bit sad to realize this. However, Soren knew Mary was needed elsewhere. Besides, she doesn't need to be stuck in the middle of this madness.
Altonair had asked for them to come along after the exchange. They both agreed to go, and followed behind Altonair and Max. She noticed that the noble woman(Amber) had followed along with them. The noble woman(Amber) made small chat with the both of them. Soren could tell she was nervous. For what reason, Soren had no clue. Admittedly, Mary did more talking than she did. Even before the joining the army and all the other incidents in her life, Soren had never talked much. She talked enough to be known, but not enough to be seen.
While they waited outside Altonair's room, the noble woman(Amber) asked them about Altonair. The questions didn't seem strange to either of them. However, Soren couldn't help but wonder if the noble woman(Amber) had some ulterior motive for wanting to know. Mary did mention that rumor. Could it be that it was actually true? Admittedly, Soren didn't care whether or not it was true. She just hoped the noble woman(Amber) didn't think that Soren would interfer in such a thing. Besides, I'm not into him, and I'm way older him. I don't think I would want to go with a guy that is nine years younger than me. No offense to Altonair.
She knew her finding a romantic match would be impossible. Soren was a knight, and a knight to the end. I may have attachments to the people I protect, but it is my duty to never let my attachment go beyond friendship. Even if I may have wanted it to go further sometimes. Soren admitted to herself that she had liked some people over her thirty some years of life. However, she never told them. In the end, she realized that was a good thing. After all, most turned out to be mean sprirted people. I won't allow myself to get attached to one of them.
Then, Altonair and Max had come out of his room. I do admit. Altonair does look nice that way, but does he really have to look like Natheniel with the haircut? I preferred it when his hair wasn't like his brother's. She found nothing wrong in finding people attractive. But as she reminded herself many times before, she could not let go further than that. "It is alright. You did not make us wait for long. Besides, we have been having a nice chat amongst ourselves." Soren told honestly and smiled slightly. Mary nodded as well, noticing the noble woman's(Amber) subdued look. However, it looked like Soren's friend had decided not to comment. Brought to my knees
Though the darkness surrounds
it pull me down,
I do sink beneath
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Posted: Tue Feb 22, 2011 2:28 pm
  ▄▄▄▄▄▄▄▄▄▄▄▄▄▄▄▄▄▄▄▄▄▄▄▄ ▄▄▄▄▄ ▄▄ Princess of Humility || In the forest again. || Wearing This || Weapon ▄▄ ▄▄▄▄▄ ▄▄▄▄▄▄▄▄▄▄▄▄▄▄▄▄▄▄▄▄▄▄▄▄ It seemed with Madelyne's speech she gained a new level of respect from Theoran, whom did not say anything in response. He appeared pleased with what she had said. The Astral Walker made his appearance shortly after when he jumped down from a tree and gave his word she would not stand alone if she was in need, of which she was glad. It was nice to know she had allies. They would certainly be needed if Xard decided to approach her again. She remembered how alluring his words had been, so it was likely she'd need the three to stop her from accepting anything from him; it would be wise to keep them close. Still, she hoped she would have enough will power to stop herself.
It was then that Tantra spoke. Her first statement was aimed at Xakstrazi, and Madelyne couldn't help but be curious about what the girl meant. What could Xakstrazi possibly be after? She wondered then if the young priestess was connecting that thought to what she had said earlier- about how Xard wanted something from her. She blushed slightly, unsure of why, and tried to ignore the comment.
Tantra talked about Madelyne's 'funeral'. The princess couldn't believe Tantra had witnessed it! It had been about nineteen years ago- how old exactly was the priestess in training? She looked too young to have been able to see it... I suppose that it doesn't matter, Madelyne thought, as long as there was a witness. But how much of a difference could a witness make? Madelyne felt a bit of doubt when Tantra offered to speak to her family. Would they really listen to someone, whether they looked like a child or not, who was trying to prove Madelyne was the real princess?
"... Thank you for the offer, Tantra, but I don't think it would work," the princess said grimly. "I will not have you sentenced to death for aiding an impostor. That is a fate I would never allow to be placed upon anyone." She glanced away from the three and toward the sky, again wondering how much time had passed while she was unconscious. "My family are sure to call upon me soon," she said, turning her attention back to her companions. "I should return to the castle." Besides that, I desperately need to change my clothes, she added mentally, not bothering to recheck the state of her dress.
{o.c.c. ~}
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Posted: Tue Feb 22, 2011 3:41 pm
♬ Ίτ'ȿ ʟΊӃЄ ɱμȘΊϹ τѺ ɱУ ЄɑɌȘ... ♫ Ҭɑηтяɑ ♪ Kingdom: Humility Rank: Priestess [In Training] Location:
Tantra noticed Madelyne's look and let out a small laugh. "I'm sure you think I'm lying, since I look... what, maybe around twelve?" She shrugged. "I'm a Fae, and I'm sure you're aware that Faries age far differently than Humans, or half Dryads." She smiled gently and nodded.
"If you're going to return to the castle I'm coming with you, I'm not giving that creep a chance to get you alone. And with all the... commotion, going on lately it's best not to be alone, with you being a princess and what not." Even if her parents did not believe her, Tantra did. She knew the girl at least thought she was telling the truth. She could see it in her eyes. What was that saying... "Eyes are the window to your soul" or something like that. Tantra nodded at her idea of changing clothes, "Wish I could. Turns out bat poop doesn't come out of a dress." She shrugged again and stood up. "I take it both of the men will be accompanying us? Can't leave two innocent and frail women like us all alone, could you?" She let out another laugh, she was completely kidding. She was not a woman, nor was she frail.
...βʯʈ Ίʈ ȘЄЄɱȘ ѺɳʟУ Ί Ϲɑɳ ΗЄɑɌ...♬
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Posted: Wed Feb 23, 2011 4:18 am
-- Location - The Stream outside the Forest, I feel a little....woozy? -- |940| -- Heir of Humility --
|Now here we stand with their blood on our hands| |We fought so hard now can we understand|
Ryan completely missed Lucien's jaw tightening at the mention of his father and even if he had he would have passed it off as nothing. Lucien had never really been around Ryan's father and therefore that he would feel uncomfortable around the King was not all that surprising. It was slightly comforting that Lucien mentioned not having anything in particular he came for. "Well I am glad to hear that. I must admit that I myself have not got much sun here of late. Reading has proved to be a better distraction for me I suppose. Still I am growing quite pale. I should let my body see more sun. How was your talk with your Betrothed?" Having already spoke of his own problems enough for the day that Ryan figured no one wanted to hear anymore. Especially a friend. Still it felt better to get it all out to someone. Made him feel more at peace. Figuring Lucien wouldn't be interested in hearing more he expected his old friend to change the subject to something else.
It seemed that Lucien even had no intention of speaking of it anymore however when Lucien joined him on the pew his friend instantly went into the subject deeper. "Yes it has happened many times before. People seeking to take her place among us royals. Nothing Father does seems to dissuade people from laying claims to her identity." Letting out a sigh Ryan was unsure what more could be done. Even the threat of potential death didn't dissuade the woman from claiming she was their sister. Hearing Lucien speak up again Ryan shrugged. "Father has tried that. There are still people who claim they are that they just have no proof because they were kidnapped or things such as that. Father just tried that with this one. I am sure he is just as tired of this as the rest of us and while I know he doesn't want to execute someone for it the woman didn't back down. She still holds on to her claim that she is our sister. She actually looked as if she had no idea she was supposed to be dead."
-- Time Skippy --
As they continued to sit there Ryan and Lucien talked about many things some that were not so pleasant and others that were pleasant. During the talk in the Church the King of Humility showed up and Ryan stepped aside so his Father could talk to him in private. Not wanting to put more on his son at the moment the King left out the part about the war and after the talk Ryan rejoined Lucien. After the comment about needing to get more sun Lucien insisted they continue their talk outside with a drink or two. After some initial hesitation Ryan agreed and using his ability located the stream of water running from the Gardens to the forest. Finding a location close to the shade for Lucien Ryan sat with his feet in the water and in the sun. Finding the feeling of the water to be nearly divine they continued their talk. Lucien had informed him of the Tantra incident and Ryan silently decided to talk to his Father about the priestess not wanting to do anything that would be considered wrong.
Lucien had insisted on bringing along some alcoholic drink that made Ryan feel sick just by smelling it. Why anyone would ever choose to drink that stuff over water was beyond him. Laying back and looking up at the sky Ryan found himself feeling much more at peace than before even. The information that a priestess from Humility had done something unpriestess-like didn't even put a damper in his mood. After a short while after having heard that Ryan had never tried anything alcoholic Lucien insisted quite firmly that Ryan at least try a glass of it. Finally agreeing to try it Ryan took a glass and began to slowly sip it finding the flavor to be downright disgusting but figuring he should at least finish it. The more of the drink he consumed the more clouded his head felt. Holding his head for a few moments and shaking it Ryan found that his head was spinning. "How strong is this stuff?" Coughing a little Ryan exhaled slowly finding a slight headache beginning to form.
The more of the glass of alcohol he consumed the fainter the headache seemed to grow however until the glass was finished and his head didn't hurt anymore. The whole world was spinning for a few moments however. Shutting his eyes tight for a few moments then blinking them open a few times Ryan felt very odd. It was something he couldn't even begin to explain yet at the same time it wasn't necessarily a bad feeling. It was different. He felt more confident somehow and more in control than he had ever felt in his entire life. However at the same time he knew deep down this wasn't him. Not really at least. He felt as if he could take on an entire army himself and barehanded no less. Something Ryan could never even hope to begin to do. Still the feeling of being arrowproof (yes not bulletproof XD) was actually a welcome thing. "Wow I feel different. You know Lucien if you ever chose to do so when I become King you are more than welcome at my court. I could even offer you a position if you chose to stay. Your a much wiser man than I." When he spoke his words were slightly slurred but still understandable. For the first time in his life Ryan was drunk.
(Lucien placed with permission)
|We feel the pain of a lifetime lost in a thousand days| |Through the fire and flames we carry on|
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Posted: Wed Feb 23, 2011 5:19 am
~~~~~~~~~~ ~~~~~~~~~~ Church to the start of Sin  It seemed that there were a good many things to talk about with the younger prince of Humility (Ryan). He'd finally gotten to bring up the very idea of the offensive priestess in training (Tantra) as well as that one lady with the owl...her name escaped him of course. And just when he thought he'd remembered it, the King Riley had shown up.
Which wasn't exactly going to make his day, he'd tell you that out straight. He was still civil, granted, tight lipped but civil. After all, what did you say to the man who ruled the country that your country was at war with when you had just been chatting with his son? Yeah, it was a tricky situation so Lucien wisely kept his mouth closed and his comments to himself as the older man went down to pray.
And then, sometime later when they'd taken to a patch of water...Lucien had said something about a drink. Only to hear back that Ryan had never sipped of anything that wasn't so close to water it might as well have been. A wicked smile fell onto the Prince's lips at that idea - now he knew exactly how to get the virtuous mouse Prince (Ryan) to lighten up. A spirited drink or two...
It had taken the better part of a candle-mark to find something suitable for the event and that was with the help of the kitchen staff.
Still, as he sat there watching Ryan take his first drink Lucien realized the time had been worth it. The look on his face was priceless but what Lucien found amusing was the fact that despite that, that Prince Ryan still continued to drink. The taste must have sat very well with him...very well indeed.
"I have not even an idea of how strong you would consider it," Lucien said as he took a sip on the drink himself before downing the last of his portion.
There was a warmth to the drink that had his throat tightening up. At least now he knew the answer - the drink was indeed strong. And for a 300 year aged beverage it very well should have been. And after just a few minutes Lucien go the idea of just how strong it was. His tolerance was higher than Ryan's for sure, but even he could feel the warmth nestled inside of him as his body started to use it.
"Je veux plus de cette boisson pour quand je suis à la maison," Lucien said, his tongue sliding over each word with a familiarity of a native language. "C'est magnifique. A que pensez-vous le?"
Lucien looked over to Ryan, his boots once again kicked off and his shirt untied to just enjoy the slight breeze. There was a comfort on the grass near the water and of course it was much more entertaining as he watched Ryan start to flounder under the effects of the alcohol. There was a throaty chuckle that slipped past the half-dragonborn's lips as he properly sat down his empty cup.
"Mon Mellon," No...wait...that was two different languages.
Lucien laughed at the slip up as he sprawled back into a more relaxed position. "My friend, if I am the wise one...your kingdom is in trouble."
Especially since he'd forgotten that he was speaking Avarician earlier when talking about the drink...
"Now, what say you for a bit more fun?" There was a tone in there that should have been a warning, if it hadn't been for the smile and look on the face that said "trust me".
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Posted: Wed Feb 23, 2011 7:19 am
-- Location - The Stream outside the Forest, More fun? Sure why not... --
|637|
-- Heir of Humility --
|Now here we stand with their blood on our hands| |We fought so hard now can we understand|
Ryan coughed again as Lucien said he was unsure how strong Ryan would consider it. "Very very very strong." Finding the smile that found it's way onto his face to be easy to achieve Ryan laid back once again looking at the sky as it moved in new and exciting ways. "Oh look that one looks like a dragon. Wait now it looks like a rabbit. Wait now it looks like a....cloud?" Shaking his head for a moment Ryan let out a small laugh. This stuff was really strong. Wow. Closing his eyes and enjoying the wind blowing through his hair Ryan let out a small blissful sigh. "Well that stuff tasted extremely disgusting but the after effects are not all that bad I guess. A lot of people use this to relax don't they?" Shrugging as if answering himself Ryan closed his eyes and inhaled and exhaled slowly as if savoring every breath of air. Lucien seemed to be getting quite affected by it as well but the Prince of Avarice was obviously a lot more used to this.
Hearing Lucien speaking in his native language Ryan understood it enough to know what he had said. Shrugging at his friend Ryan was content to lay down by the stream listening to the water flow calmly and was prepared to stay here in this location for all of eternity. Smiling pleasantly Ryan was actually considering what it would be like to have this type of feelings always and let out a dreamy sigh. "Uh how does it go in you language. Il était brut mais curieusement satisfaisant? I am afraid I am not fluent Lucien my friend and therefore not sure if that is it or not. Perhaps you should teach me more of your language a little later so I don't sound so odd." Smiling as Lucien joined him by the water Ryan was glad to see his friend seemed to be enjoying this as well. Seeing as how Lucien seemed to be affected by the alcohol as well Ryan wanted to know exactly how old the bottle was. Letting the wind blow through his hair softly Ryan slipped his hands behind his head.
Hearing Lucien say something that sounded very like two different languages Ryan gave the man a questioning look. "Mon Mellon? What does that mean?" Hearing Lucien laugh Ryan figured he had heard something funny and joined in quickly for no apparent reason. Shrugging off Lucien's next sentence about his kingdom being in trouble it was something he agreed with. "I do believe it is in trouble if I am to become King my friend. I am not my Father after all. Sometimes I think everyone would be better off if Nae took my place as the Heir. I fear I am going to screw things up terribly my friend." Hearing Lucien ask him about having more fun Ryan grinned. "Something tells me my dear friend Lucien that I should be weary of your invitation to have more fun. However I find myself unable to decipher why exactly."
Laughing a little as he closed his eyes Ryan ran a hand through his hair. "What kind of fun are we talking about because I do hope it is not anything too unethical. Then again I find myself wanting very much to have fun. This drink must be something else. You know what don't tell me what it is and let's go have fun. I think I could use a little fun." It was as if the weight of the world had been lifted from his shoulders and he was suddenly weightless. Ryan suddenly felt as if he was just a normal guy and not the Heir to Humility or even a Prince. Things seemed so much simpler. Why didn't everyone drink more often?
|We feel the pain of a lifetime lost in a thousand days| |Through the fire and flames we carry on|
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Posted: Wed Feb 23, 2011 11:59 am
 Pic by vishstudio; click for larger shot
Location/Situation and Form: gardens | going OMFGOMFGOMFG | humanMan is the cruelest animal.
~Friedrich Nietzsche (1844 - 1900)
Still screaming out as if there was nothing left but anguish in his mind, Sokar dropped to his knees, then bent over, his hands still covering his face, and his elbows scuffing against the ground. Soon he stopped screaming, only left with taking rapid breaths as if he was hyperventilating. There were whimpers interspaced his breathing, but he wasn’t sobbing, just trying to come to terms with the nightmare that had just become reality.
His hands lowered as he heard a voice. It was a soft thing, but its familiar cadence was something for his mind to grab onto like a lifeline to prevent itself from snapping. Still breathing fast, but quieting his cries, Sokar turned his head to look towards where the voice had come from.
It was his protegee, the little human pup that his plants loved. Not that he could sense that right now, having lost that link he had with his gardens, so that he could not feel their puzzlement and worry for his distress. He wanted to ask her for help, not that he even knew what help she could give. Recalling what had happened, he remembered hearing the woman’s taunt. Wouldn’t alpha Veritas be able to fix him? He was a god, wasn’t he? the idea that he could stay like this FOREVER caused his breathing to hitch up again, and he was close to going into hysterics again.
But Evony looked peculiar to him, covering her eyes like that. He focused on that strange action, something human no doubt, not wanting to think again about how permanent this might be. “E-Evony,” he spoke, his voice similar to that in his werehuman form, but somewhat less accented, now that his mouth had been reshaped completely human. “It me. Sokar.” His yellow eyes looked almost pained as they stared up at her, wanting a response from the usually happy girl. Was she perhaps horrified at his human form? It didn’t make much sense because she was human, but nothing did at the moment really.
Still though, if she could recognize him, believe that he was still himself, even in this monstrous form, then he might have a little bit of peace. He registered that he was much larger than most humans, and assumed it would make him more hideous a beast, not realizing it was more attitude and expression that made other humans judge each other, for the most part. He glanced around for a quick moment, searching for that woman-thing who had done this. She was nowhere to be seen though, and his nose, now a painfully useless object in comparison to its wolf form, also could not pick up her scent.
To conclude, all other living creatures live orderly and well, after their own kind:
we see them flock and gather together, and ready to make head and stand against all others of a contrary kind:
the lions as fell and savage as they be, fight not with one another: serpents sting not serpents, nor bite one another with their venomous teeth:
nay the very monsters and huge fishes of the sea, war not amongst themselves in their own kind:
but believe me, man at man's hand receiveth most harm and mischief.
~Pliny The Elder (23 AD - 79 AD)
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Posted: Wed Feb 23, 2011 2:20 pm
 Corrine Brooke Masterson Kingdom: Wrath ✩ Rank: Arch Duchess ✩ Location: Veritas' Castle ✩ Walking the Hallways // Grounds  Lincoln's teasing of her as a poet brought another smile to her face, green eyes cast towards him with an air of mystery. "Oh, dear cousin. As close as we are, there are a great many things about me you'd be surprised to learn." His continuing to talk about this girl, and how adamantly he desired her would have caught her a little off guard if she were not as distracted with her own fate. As long as she'd known Lincoln, he was a political mastermind - but, if this marriage would serve his personally happiness and the political agenda of Wrath, then Corrine had already resolved to help him in any way she knew how. His resolution that he should work on the brothers elicited a nod from her, her eyebrow raising ever so slightly as he spoke of the relationship that could be if circumstances were different. She'd known of Lincoln's changing tastes of bed companions before, though it still came as a bit of a shock to her. Her expression, however, melted into amusement as she leaned into him slightly, voice dropping to a whisper.
"Perhaps I should take them to my own bed. As it stands, such pleasure could serve both our interests." Her smile was anything but innocent as the pair continued on their walk. Her white attire shouldn't mislead anyone into thinking she was a virtuous girl - her travels had been filled with all number of adventures, in all shapes and sizes. His calling her the "fairer sex" elicited a tick of her tongue slightly, green eyes rolling to the ceiling with a chuckle. Corrine knew that she was a desirable woman, but fairer? Hardly…
"You know I'd do anything you asked of me. Just don't expect me to pamper a beautiful child because she's the object of your affections. I wouldn't consider mothering to be in my nature," she said simply, though her tone suggested that she was sincere. Lincoln had been good to her over the years, and seeing as they were relatives and he was heir to the country she loved, Corrine would help make this alliance happen in any way she could. Of course, his mention that it was the princess of Envy, Evony, would have taken her aback if she hadn't been forewarned that it was someone she might not consider his type.
"Well, you were't kidding when you said she was a child," Corrine said flatly, her expression somewhat skeptical before a shake of her head. Lincoln had her full confidence - if he wanted this, then she would help him. He must care for her a great deal if he was willing to put in the work necessary to make such an arrangement happen. His expression, at first rather calm, faltered, her cousin spilling forth all number of concerns and complications that would arise from continuing down the path he'd planned for himself. She let him speak his mind, her soft grasp of his arm tightening gently to afford some reassurance. She didn't know what to say to make him feel better - at the end of the day his decisions had to be his, and his alone. After all, Corrine was not one to become involved in politics and alliances unless there was a battle to be fought - matters of love were completely foreign to her at this point.
His hand slipped from her own as Lincoln came to his decision, Corrine's free hand sliding up her hip to rest on her waist.
"You know, one attraction to this little plan is that your children, being half elven, will carry on the Masterson name for near an eternity," she said with a slight shrug, her green eyes locking in to his to show that she was still behind him. The two turned a corner in time to see some girl splatter the floor with her stomach contents, Corrine's nose wrinkling slightly as she thought back to her own episode in the catacombs. Her cousin seemed to recognize the girl, Corrine's mind quickly making the connection when her cousin tightened his grip on her arm and proceeded towards the girl, asking if she was alright.
This was Evony - the girl that had catered her cousin's heart. Goodness, she was tiny. And twitchy.
His glance back at her confirmed her suspicions, though her own response remained neutral. She needed to know more about this girl before she gave her blessing to Lincoln's plans rather than simply lending support. Corrine gave a small incline of her head as she was introduced, removing her arm from Lincoln's to free him to do whatever he felt needed to be done with the girl. The Arch Duchess herself stooped slightly so she was more at the girl's level, trying (with little success) to remove the harshness from her natural expression to something akin to comfort. The things she did for family.
"It's a pleasure to make your acquaintance princess. My cousin here has told me many wonderful things about you." A smile graced the corners of her lips, Corrine nodding as the girl asked if they could just walk a bit.
"Here, take my cousin's arm. You look a tad flushed, and he's good for support," Corrine said simply, stepping back slightly and motioning Lincoln to step forward and do as she suggested. Her cousin was all for propriety, but it was little moments like this that won a girl's affections. If he wanted her to fall for him as he had fallen for her, physical contact was a great way to tempt feelings. Especially when one was as young and vulnerable as Evony.
-------------------- Time Skip --------------------
 After walking some time longer with Lincoln and Evony, the princess spilling forth the events that had lead to her pitiful condition in the hallway. Though the Arch Duchess walked with the pair, she remained relatively silent, allowing the two to interact while her own thoughts strayed back to her impending nuptials. How could her father have done something so…horrifying without taking her considerations into account? They had never seen eye to eye on what Corrine's role in the family, and the kingdom for that matter, should be, but she never thought that he would be alright with her being engaged to a virtuous elf from Justice. These thoughts and more turned her neutral expression to one laced with anger and frustration, such that Corrine eventually excused herself from Lincoln and Evony's company, returning to her new chambers alone.
The sight of the door, adjoining her room with Valas' made her sick to her stomach, hatred towards her father and the God that made this all possible knotting in her stomach. There were few times she was as livid as she was now, the calmness settling over the land as the sun set not enough to quell the fire raging in her chest. What had before been shock and denial was now full blown rage.
White fabric billowed as it fell to the floor behind her as she shed her opaque white cover, the Arch Duchess suddenly rising from her seat at the window and crossing the room to an ornate side table, where her kukris that sat, polished and sharpened on an ornate side table. Drawing one blade from the sheath, her green eyes studied her slightly distorted reflection in the steel, pristine and hardened. Not the face of a virtuous queen, but of a sinful warrior. A knock at the door caused Corrine to sigh slightly, her father's voice calling her name from beyond the wood.
"I do not want to see you," she retorted, eyes moving from the steel to the stone wall before her. The sound of the door opening caused the Arch Duchess to grunt, turning around and whipping a kukri through the air, to embed itself in the wooden door next to his shoulder. Her expression was filled to the brim with loathing, Nolan unaffected by the disdain with which his daughter looked at him. A massive hand closed around the weapon's hilt, wrenching it from the grain and flipping it over in his hand. It was a weapon he never learned to use, darkened eyes moving from his hand to his daughter.
"You won't be as mad when you're coronated Queen of Justice," he said simply, flipping the blade over once more as he approached his daughter and handed the hilt towards her to take. Her mouth opened, as if to say something, but simply closed with an incredulous expression, snatching the blade back from his hand and nearly slamming it onto the table once more.
"Did it ever occur to you that I don't care to be Queen of Justice? That I don't care to be queen of anything? My duties to Wrath should be-" Nolan's expression tightened, eyes narrowing as he stepped forward, seeming to tower over her. His deep voice bellowed over her own, cutting her sentence short. There was no making her understand that his actions were out of love for his daughter, not out of some misplaced desire to make her life miserable. The stubbornness she inherited from her mother was an annoying now as it had been in his marriage.
"You're duty to Wrath, and to me, is to produce strong heirs and warriors. No one doubts your skills in battle, Corrine - it's been proven time and time again. But you are first a Wrathian woman, whose purpose is to fill your household with strong Wrathian children. My only daughter will be taken care of before I die - whether you like my methods of doing it or not."
"You can dine with your future son-in-law tonight. I won't be joining you," Corrine spat after a moment of silence between them, eyes narrowed as she brushed past him with a slight shove, narrowing escaping his grasp as he moved to grab her and prevent her from leaving. He'd never allowed anyone to speak to him in such a disrespectful manner - not even Corrine. As much as he loved his daughter, she'd been difficult at times, what with her seeming refusal of custom and propriety in many things. The door slammed shut as the Arch Duchess stormed from the room, her hands knotting into her hair as she leaned back against the door, driving her head back into it with a frustrated exhale.
Now reduced to an a-symmetrical white wrap top, an inappropriate amount of skin exposed between her entire midriff and arms, and a white skirt, Corrine's eyes closed for a moment before she took to the hallways, intending to release some frustrations with a walk in the gardens. Passing a larger group waiting outside another door, Corrine stepped to the side as she passed, eyes glancing over the group to notice the Prince of Envy (Altonair) was among them. She didn't know much of the Envy bloodline, but she recognized the key players - and they were always a good-looking bunch. Younger than her, yes, but that made it all the more tempting. And even though they supposedly had elven in their bloodline, it wasn't the overly-feminized characteristics present in her betrothed. A smirk crept onto her lips as the group disappeared behind her, brown hair tossed over her shoulders.
'If Lincoln wants my help with the brothers, I'll be more than happy to oblige.'
Emerging into the gardens, the cooler night air brushed against her exposed skin, the brunette still fuming with anger. If he could find someone she knew would post a challenge, a spar would be the best release right now - unfortunately, she wasn't sure the caliber of knights in Veritas' kingdom would live up to her own expectations. Further, it wouldn't be wise for the Arch Duchess to fight in such a state - blind rage was a dangerous thing when the beserker has no qualms about killing. The sound of screaming and voices, one intensely familiar, echoed through the night air, the word "guard" catching particular attention. Concern overtook the rage simmering within, the possibility of a fight momentarily lifting her spirits as Corrine's pace quickened, the timid form of Evony coming into view, and a naked man (Sokar) just beyond. Yes….a naked man.
Corrine halted a few steps away from the girl, her eyes darting from the girl, clearly embarrassed, to the man just beyond who she did not recognize in the slightest. The look on the girl's face as near priceless, Corrine having to stop herself from laughing slightly as she felt the tension in the air. Clearing her throat to announce herself to the girl, Corrine didn't hide the fact that she was staring at the man as she stepped closer to her cousin's love, the situation just too awkward for words.
"Do I want to…well, let me rephrase. Is there something about this situation I should know about before I ask if everything is ok?" ((Oodles Of Carrots: Monster post. Sorry. o.o'')
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Posted: Wed Feb 23, 2011 7:27 pm
 Theoran Lynth Kingdom: Avarice Rank: Sellsword Location: The Forest When Theoran heard the thud of someone landing, he knew it was Xakstrazi, even before he looked up to make sure. And he had to admit, he found the contrast to be slightly strange when Tantra landed with a much softer thud. He didn't even try to hide his smirk at the priestesses obvious jab, but it quickly faded as she voiced her plan to Madelyne. Even though this was the second time he had heard it, it still sounded both wise and foolish at the same time. Whether the Princess felt the same or not remained to be seen. For now, it seemed, she just didn't want to risk having relatively innocent blood on her hands. When at last it was decided to return to the castle, Theoran was relieved to have a chance to get back into his armour, though he hid the emotion well. When Tantra made another joke, Theoran couldn't help but chuckle. "Come now, Tantra. Who'd mistake you for being innocent?" Theoran was grinning like an idiot as he pushed himself off the tree. "But I'll join you, none the less. I'm sure the Lady Madelyne has been missed." Though he didn't say it, he fully expected they would receive a less than warm welcome and Theoran had no qualms with opposing royalty, especially here in Verita's kingdom. To him, their word carried no weight here.
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Posted: Wed Feb 23, 2011 7:38 pm
• Ӎ ɐ э ʆ ɸ ȵ ɐ • ʗ э ɾ ΐ ϛ э • Ѧ ϛ ȶ ɐ ʆ ʆ ɸ • Ｔｈｅ ａｄｏｐｔｅｄ Ｐｒｉｎｃｅｓｓ, ｈａｉｌｉｎｇ ｆｒｏｍ ｔｈｅ ｋｉｎｇｄｏｍ ｏｆ ＰａｔｉｅｎｃｅLocation: Some music room. Currently Wearing: This Dress •xxxxx•xxxxx•xxxxx•xxxxx•xxxxx•xxxxx•xxxxx•xxxxx•   Maelona continued to play at the harp, doubting that the man would even say anything back, or that he had even heard her. Though as a voice entered her mind she stopped once more. Her hands froze on the strings, the man surely had addressed her, but there was no outside voice that had reached her ears, it was simply slipped into her mind. It took a moment for the words to sink in. He couldn't speak. Well, he could, but not with his mouth as it appeared. She struck a sour note and winced slightly. Could he hear her thoughts too? Now her mind went into panic mode, trying not to think, but of course when that happened, too many thoughts came racing through.
Maelona shook her head. No, no, everything was fine, it would be fine. She just needed to be normal, after all this seemed like a normal thing to him. She plucked at a few more strings before replying. "It, it's fine. We all have our... Things." She said, unsure of the right word to use. This was an awkward situation to her, something that she had never experienced before. Someones words being placed in her head. She wondered for a moment if anyone else felt like this around this man.
Maelona's blue gray orbs slid back to the man as he spoke about her playing. "Perhaps I could, and thank you." She said simply before shaking her head. "I haven't touched a harp in years. I had begged for a teacher when I was younger." Why was she babbling now? Was it just to fill the silence the harp couldn't? She wasn't sure. "And please feel free to call me Maelona." She said before letting her gaze go back to the harp.
Again the young princess went silent, unsure if she wanted to continue a conversation or not. After all, the angelic man didn't seem to mind it when he had come in. Though of course if she didn't, it might make him feel awkward, or bad in some way or another. Maelona slipped a smile on her face as she continued to pluck away at a succession of notes that seemed to fit well together. This reminded her that music came so easily to some, those that wrote the music. It had also reminded her why she had wanted to play the in the first place. •xxxxx•xxxxx•xxxxx•xxxxx•xxxxx•xxxxx•xxxxx•xxxxx• Louder than sirens
xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxLouder than bells
Sweeter than heavenxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
Hotter than hell
""
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)(Over.Dose.On.Cyanide)( Crew
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Posted: Wed Feb 23, 2011 8:42 pm
Ɉϕɧɳ Ӎiҫɧϵɑɭ Gɍϵϵɳϵ Kingdom: Forititude Rank: Prince Location: Music Room, Crap! White walls surround us
As we sleep among the dead (()) John could tell she heard his voice. He felt bad for making her feel wierd. However, he didn't want to appear rude either. Even if people haven't had the same type of reaction as I'm used to, it doesn't mean I don't make them feel wierd. He hoped that she didn't think he could read her thoughts. It was true that he could, if someone wanted to talk via thoughts. But, John made sure not to listen to them if they weren't talking in that way. After all, he didn't want them to feel more akward than they already were feeling.
He did wonder why not a lot of people had been completely fazed by his issue. The girl(Maelona) was showing a reaction he had expected all along. It is true Evony showed a simliar reaction, but most acted pretty much normal. If they did have issue with John being mute, they didn't make it obvious. I wouldn't be surprised if they did. But, I would whether not know personally. I've been...kind of liking them treating it so nonchantly.
When he started hearing her talk once more, John could tell she felt akward. He didn't need to be an empath to figure that out. Her body language had given it away long before her voice did. However, John did apperciate the fact she was still talking to him. Some choose to ignore him, others choose to insult him, and some did what Maelona did. It was rare for people not to have a reaction. Being in a place full of people treating it nonchantly was something John was still trying to get used to.
"Your welcome, and you may call me John then." John told as calmly as he could, trying to help ease the strangeness of the situation. He couldn't be sure that he was going about it right. But, John didn't have much else to go on, other than past succesful experiences here. So far, the way he had gone about it had allowed the shock to go through naturally. There had been no outbursts yet. However, John was ready just in case. We can chase the dark together
As the sky returns to grey
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Posted: Wed Feb 23, 2011 9:41 pm
Location: Outside of Altonair's Quarters.
In the desert
I saw a creature, naked, bestial,
who, squatting upon the ground,
Held his heart in his hands,
And ate of it.
━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━ The hours since seeing Max had been spent in much the same way the heir of Envy usually carried out his day; a series of letters read and written between himself and the king, although Nathaniel opted out of mentioning the brief resurrection of his younger brother, unsure of the reaction such news might garner in their father…and not wishing for any visitations or decrees which could possibly result from the admission, and become an inconvenience. He had given himself time to mull over what had been discussed…willed himself to look grave, preoccupied, in the eyes of those who seen him about the castle. The worried heir…the prince with the weight of a large decision resting upon his shoulders. He had been the one to voice that Rosalie might need to see the boy, but the heir had been careful to do so warily; to make it lucid that even he was unsure how she might react to the sight of him, and to feign worry over the fact. ”Perhaps it could give her closure…although, as she has refused our company, one cannot be sure as to what state she is truly bin…and I fear that the outcome could be the opposite.”His lies were careful, his tone only subtly urging Altonair to agree with him, and to assist in orchestrating a meeting betwixt the two. With the knowledge that he, and everyone else possessed, it seemed that there were greater chances of her healing from this, than not. Only Nathaniel possessed insight beyond that ken; only he knew of the secret carried now between himself, and dearest little sister Rosalie. That night at the ball….that brief glimpse she’d been given into the brother she had so devoted her love to; that truth had as much to do with her madness as Max’s death did. And the prince found himself intensely curious to see how that extra factor might influence Rosalie’s reaction to the new Max. One couldn’t dismiss the possibility that it might still prove a helpful occurrence rather than a damaging one…but that was part of the game; the unanswered questions, the varying possibilities…they raised excitement in Nathaniel, although outwardly those around him would never see it. The hours dwindled away, and soon Nathaniel found his steps slowly leading him to Altonair’s chambers; a worried cadence still following him, displaying well a hesitance that didn’t truly exist. Upon his approach, the heir’s gaze sidled over Soren and Mary, a friendly lilt to it…one which he coupled with a brief nod of acknowledgement; it was a gesture which one wouldn’t expect a prince to give a servant, but that was precisely why the heir was so popular amongst them. To the lady Amber, the man fell into a half bow, ”Milady.”More might have been said, but his brothers emerged not a moment later…Nathaniel forcing himself to look pleased with Max’s new appearance; better, yes, but still very off…very otherworldly. A smile encompassed the elf’s features at his youngest brother, one which didn’t quite reach his eyes- and intentionally so, ”Maxwell,” He said warmly, reaching out to place a hand atop the young man’s hair, as he was still a good few heads shorter than Nathaniel, ”You’re looking much…healthier now. I am glad to see it.” Grimy, disgusting little thing. Thankfully, the heir was used to such filth about his hands, hardly faltering as his fingers interlaced with a few of Max’s greasy dark tresses. He did pull away fairly abruptly though, as the boy seemed…rather fond of biting. And, when attacked, Nathaniel’s baser, more primal instincts were sometimes prone to reacting with more haste than better his judgments. Best not to risk making a scene. ”Are you ready? Will you ladies be accompanying us?” Glacial hues turned to meet the face of his living brother, the uncertainty laced within them leaving it open for the prince to refuse, to go back on what they had planned. He was reasonably sure that Altonair wouldn’t change his mind; that they would soon be headed towards Rosalie’s quarters…but Nathaniel wouldn’t force that outcome; he needed to appear as unsure as any caring brother might be, as lost in this complicated scenario as Altonair likely was. As always, Nathaniel’s guise would come before his games. ━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━ I said, "Is it good, friend?"
"It is bitter -- bitter,"he answered;
"But I like it
Because it is bitter,
And because it is my heart."
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Posted: Wed Feb 23, 2011 10:05 pm
 Location: Just outside of the Library, fighting dust bunnies
Kingdom: Fortitude Hubris
Title: ServantThe dust cloud in front of the library had become massive. Deep in thought, Ella had not realized the amount of dust she was putting into the air, and not keeping it on the feather duster. The poor servant’s mind was weaving different scenarios about what would happen if she asked to meet with Veritas or Haven. After she had been kidnapped by the Hubris Kingdom, the King of Hubris had cut off all communication with her and her parents. But no one had said she couldn’t ask about her parents now, here in Veritas’s castle. And since many family members had arrived to see their sons and daughters, Ella had been thinking about her family more than ever. Each time Ella thought about seeing Veritas, the meetings all ended rather badly Ella thought. Lord Veritas was an old God, some say even a wise God, but he was devilish creature. Ever since the royals and their servants had arrived at the castle he had done nothing but put obstacle after frightening obstacle in their way. Servants whispered in the castle that it was to keep everyone on their toes. Keeping them on their toes indeed! But it didn’t matter because each time Ella thought about visiting the ancient God and master of the castle, it ended with dead bodies on tables, zombies, tears and hatred. All things she did not want to see or go through. A meeting with Haven on the other hand looked much more promising. He was a kind man from what Ella remembered and he would not rush to torture the poor girl. Here rose a new problem for Ella, Haven was a prince, an heir actually. Ella was a servant and she was a servant from a sinful Kingdom which just made matters worse. “He will not want to speak to me.” She said with a frown. And speaking of the Hubris Kingdom, good Gods the things they would do to her if they found out she was asking about her home! Torture would be the least of Ella’s problems if she asked to speak with Lord Haven. Ella shook her head, eyes closed tightly to fight back tears, the feather duster clutched in her hands; her situation looked bleak on each end. “Perhaps I will never know about my parents. And perhaps…perhaps that is for the best…” she barely registered the Library doors opening and a man walking out and straight into her dust cloud. When she heard him sneeze Ella looked up only to catch a large cluster of dust in her nose. “Acheee!” she sneezed before taking out a handkerchief and wiping her nose. “I am very sorry Sir!” she said while waving the feather duster in the air, hoping it would clear the dust.
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