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TunaDishCosplayer Vice Captain
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 Posted: Tue Dec 17, 2024 5:13 pm
 Tsuna MikiHearing Lottie speak so coldly broke her heart, but you had to be ruthless against an opponent like Vendeth. Charging past Micha'el, she swiped her blade up kicking up dirt which Vendeth lazily dodged. Like a ballerina, Lottie twirled on her feet lowering her stance and brought up her glaive again this time marking Vendeth's cheek. Micha'el supported her with his glowing sword and shield delivering lighter blows to make room for Lottie's more powerful hits. Maneuvering expertly, Vendeth deflected Micha'el's attacks kicking him back and even managed to stagger Lottie backwards as well. Tsuna gasped wishing she had the strength to enable her team, but any physical attributes were torn away from her. Despite Horakhty's displeasure of being lied too, he assisted Tsuna giving her the motivation she needed. He lead her over to a tree leaning her on it, she found a sturdy branch to brace herself, as she offered her his strength. She simply nodded and looked back at the battle waiting for the right opportunity to strike.
Lottie taunted Vendeth just as she was told causing the elf to lash out with blades supposedly conjured from her own blood. Cutting the space between the two, one of her blades was blocked by Lottie while the other got Micha'el in the gut knocking him onto his back. Normally Lottie would have rushed to his side, but continued her onslaught further breaking Vendeth. She used her armored wrists to protect herself again before releasing bloody spikes from her body to push Lottie back. Using her own blood was taking a toll on her stamina by the way she slumped over after an attack conforming to her insanity to keep her active. Micha'el jumped to his feet begging Lottie to stop as her stance transformed into something akin to a viper. A glaive was brought to her chest and she chanted before holding it above her head ready to strike. Meanwhile, Horakhty stepped forwards into the line of fire preparing to launch his assault.
A purple lined symbol that he had drawn from nothingness hovered in the air before him. The darkness around them shifted and the shape of a hold cross appeared along with an Egyptian ankh overlay, the mark of Declasia. Bringing back his fist, a larger fist manifested from Shadowmancy and struck Vendeth directly. She flew back rolling across the dirt before slamming into a tree, splintering the bark and leaving a dent. Horakhty fell to one knee and gave the command to Tsuna to lead her team once more. Now they all looked to her for guidance and Tsuna smirked giving herself whatever little boost she could muster. "Micha'el, trap her so she doesn't escape and blind her as much as possible. Lottie, hit her in these areas, "She paused pointing to small, specific spots on her body. "Major and minor arteries. To severe them you must be precise and merciless. She wouldn't be able to block a volley of glaives despite how strong she may seem. It'll be hard to heal herself with a copious amount of blood loss. Go!" The rest was up to them now. Tsuna did all she could and the only thing left was to believe in her team knowing they'll make it through. Even if Vendeth does find a way to strike back, her team won't give up and continue to bring her down.
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Posted: Thu Dec 19, 2024 9:20 am
 I am very, very crazy, very... I can't ever stop myself! Everything in the world wouldn't fill this void ✢Vendeth✢
Call it a crime, but it’s so wonderful
Shame me if you want, I don’t mind at all
Appetite’s instinctual
Tell me that it’s ugly, it feels so good!
Tsuna gave the orders and her teammates reacted swiftly, as if she had woven her golden thread through their silver sheets. Micha'el swung back towards Vendeth, leaping up with white wings of light as he summoned up countless chains to hold her down. I must protect them he thought, focusing all his energy through his Aria, reaching deeper, farther, for a source of power that would give him the necessary boost he needed. His chains could barely hold down last nights monster - how did he expect to hold down this abomination? He breathed in, remembering the countless pages of inscriptions in the area, attempting to decipher the symbols and drawings when suddenly something came to him, clear as the stars in the night sky. Stars... he realised, the imagery coming together. Not constellations... lone stars. His eyes suddenly glowed a twilight blue as his white chains, now holding onto Vendeth, came alive with a dusty blue essence.
Vendeth squirmed, pulling and throwing herself in all directions to no avail. Blood began to collect at her fingertips, turning into razor sharp talons as her anger grew. Lottie was already circling, looking for a good shot at the points Tsuna had pointed out to her. If there was one thing Tsuna did study well... it was how to take down an opponent. As she circled Vendeth, a spectral glaive would hover in place at certain points - aiming towards the points Tsuna had mentioned. As she clocked Vendeth conjuring up her new claws, she attacked. She ran by one of her spectral glaives, leaping up to grab each one and throw them down onto Vendeth, each one striking true. With each wound more blood poured from the man woman, each cry coming with a new gurgle as she began to slump lower and lower towards the ground.
Micha'el floated down to the ground, heavenly chains materialising from his fists and down into the ground where they magically connected on the other end to the tethers holding Vendeth down on the ground across from them. Lottie skidded to a stop, still holding her glaive high above her, an unfamiliar look on her face. "Lottie" Micha'el said, holding the chains so tight he felt himself being drawn to the ground, "let Lottie finish this." He was of course speaking to Willow Morta, and not Lottie. She eyed him briefly, her eyes almost looking down for a moment, as if Lottie slipped into control for a moment before turning back to Vendeth as the woman cried out in pain and anguish. An obscene amount of blood was now pooling around her, clinging onto the chains around her like webs. Lottie stepped forwards, closing the gap on Vendeth, who now looked more similar to a bloody abomination than any kind of humanoid being. The blood was trying to crawl along the chains, back towards its host. Then, when Lottie lifted her glaive, Vendeth released a third, bloody, clawed arm that attempted to cut her clean in two. Micha'el lost grip of his chains, causing them to shatter and release Vendeth who moved lightning fast. Her spectral glaives all rushed in to deflect the attack, holding back the horrific appendage for the most part except for the edge of one bloody claw that struck true that was stabbing into Lottie's left shoulder. Just as quickly, Lottie thrust her right hand forwards and thrust Willow Morta through Vendeth's gaping mouth as she attempted to charge Lottie. The bloody claw stopped forcing against Lottie's spectral glaives and slumped. Then Vendeth's bloody mass began to writhe and twist before collapsing in on itself and vanishing into thin air. Not a single drop of her blood left to show.
"LOTTIE!" Micha'el rushed to his friend's side, shaking her shoulders as he looked down to see the gash in her side. "LOTTIE. Come back, please!" He knelt down to try and heal her wound the same as he did to Tsuna, but he couldn't focus and struggled to cast the magic. "Let her go!" he shouted, but she looked down at him and said "I'm here, Micha'el"
"No, you're not. I want Lottie back. I-I-"
"I'm... Willow Morta is... protecting her"
"By letting her bleed out?! You're just standing there?!" he scrambled once again to heal the gash, this time focusing hard to channel the energy of the stars that helped him conjure the powerful chains. No... the star that helped him. A burning, swirling mast of stardust showed itself in his minds eye as the same blue essence shook off Lottie's wound, leaving behind a glistening white scar that reflected a spectrum of colours in the light. The moment he did that, Lottie collapsed. "Hey... Micha'el - we did it" she said, her familiar tone finally returned. All Micha'el could do was pull her in close as he began to cry into her shoulder. After a few moments he finally pulled away to look her in her eyes, her familiar, beautiful eyes. They paused with a smile, then turned to look for their best friend. "Tsuna" Micha'el said, extending his arm. Lottie winced a smile too, gesturing for her to join them.
It's unforgivable, but I can't stop, it's the sin of instinct
Ahh, It's not enough, I can't get enough, at the whim of the original sin
Saying goodbye is death by a thousand cuts
Flashbacks waking me up
I get drunk, but it's not enough
Don't stop, don't stop, feeding. Don't stop, don't stop, one more bite
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TunaDishCosplayer Vice Captain
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Posted: Fri Dec 20, 2024 8:39 am
Tsuna MikiMicha'el imprisoned her with as many gold chains as he could, however, this time they turned a dusty blue. Meanwhile, Lottie continued to encircle her aiming at the points that Tsuna described. Vendeth caused her own fingernails to bleed so she could make claw trying to loosen the chains only to Lottie to attack before she could conjure more. Lottie was able to strike the points true causing Vendeth to bleed out and slump over. Micha'el floated back down to the ground holding the writhing Vendeth as he spoke to Willow Morta which had taken over Lottie's body. Lottie had described her weapon a few times, but never did she think it had the capabilities to do something like this. In a last ditch effort to save herself, Vendeth used her blood like a web to crawl up the chains while slashing out with another bloodly appendage to cut Lottie in half. Suddenly, Micha'el's grip broke and Vendeth spung into action slicing Lottie's shoulder open. Tsuna gasped, but Lottie quickly took back the fight by dispatching of Vendeth stabbing her through the mouth. Vendeth collapsed and writhed in a bloody mass until she vanished completely making Tsuna believe the real Vendeth escaped some time during the fight.
After Vendeth was gone, Micha'el pleased for Willow Morta to let her go with took some convincing, but after a bit Lottie returned. He used his magic to seal up her wounds just as he did for her and was now cradling Lottie. At least she was back and Team Sun was together again. "Thank you, Horakhty." Tsuna gave him a small smile and stubbled over to join her team in a well deserved embrace. Hopefully Horakhty will let them return and continue their journey to which she promised to tell him everything.
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Posted: Sun Dec 22, 2024 8:46 am
~
Once like a dream you looked at me
And everything felt new - time flicked away
The path seemed to fade, my hope restored by you ± : . : ± : . : ± : . : ± Scarlot Tamiya-Satoru ± : . : ± : . : ± : . : ± Before it's too late... this could all disappear
Before the doors close... and it comes to an end
With you by my side I will fight and defend
I'll fight and defend, yeah, yeah
~
The entire caravan was awake and alert by the time that Team Sun and Horakhty returned. A fire had been lit, and one of the travellers that was well versed in healing was quick to tend to all four of them. The female Therian finished placing some herbs on Micha'els sliced abdomen, which he winced to, before giving them all space around the fire. Horakhty was drinking a soothing tea under the moonlight, and Lottie was cosied up beside Tsuna with a tea of her own. The glow of the flame warmed their faces. Horakhty had suddenly ordered the caravan to stay put for tonight, and to wait until around in this location until further notice. Whilst Team Sun had their wounds tended to, he had wandered off by himself for a short while before returning, and tossing some parchment into the fire. The night was beginning to turn to morning, but the sun wouldn't rise for some hours yet thanks to the long winter nights.
Micha'el had been somewhat quiet after the battle, but was attentive to both Tsuna and Lottie's progress whilst the Therian checked over them and administered fresh remedies. Lottie had mentioned how Micha'el's magic sealed the wound she got fighting, and admired how it glistened in the light. Tsuna had the same, "how come you didn't heal yourself, Micha'el?" she asked, to which he shook his head and admitted "I tried, it didn't work. I'm not sure how I even did it on you two. But evidentially it only seals the wound and doesn't heal anything beneath the skin.
"Dangerous - if there were internal bleeding in need of sewing up" Horakhty intervened, taking another sip from his medicinal tea. His was brewed to rejuvenate lost energy, as was Team Sun's, but theirs's also had painkillers. "That woman, who was she?" he asked plainly, "an assassin no doubt. But why did she come for you? And why are you really travelling to the City of Crows? I would like to assure my betters that I have not brought any danger into our walls."
~ Keep holding on 'Cause you know we'll make it through - We'll make it through Just stay strong... 'Cause you know I'm here for you - I'm here for you Now I can feel the fire burning deep within me
I'll be the hero and no one can stop me
~
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TunaDishCosplayer Vice Captain
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Posted: Sun Dec 22, 2024 9:30 am
Tsuna MikiBack at the caravan, a fire had been lit and a medic was dispatched for Micha'el. A female Therian with a gorgeous brown coat places some herbs on Micha'el wound before darting off. Horakhty drank tea elegantly in the moonlight as Lottie cuddled against Tsuna with her own cup. Tsuna wasn't much of a tea drinker the gesture was comforting though. At some point, Horakhty strayed away only to come back and throw parchment onto the fire to fuel it. The team was rather quiet as they waited for morning which it seemed like daybreak would never could do to the long winter nights. Tsuna would glance at Micha'el periodically as the Therian medic came over to tend to them once more. Lottie and Tsuna couldn't help but admire their now beautiful scars and Lottie eventually brought up what Tsuna had been pondering, why didn't he heal himself? He simply couldn't, yet his seal wasn't a permanent fix especially if there's eternal bleeding underneath. Horakhty intervened sharing his view point and sipping on more of his tea which seemed to be more rejuvenating than theirs. Or maybe its just because, she hasn't really drank her yet. Although, she started sipping it down rather quickly when he started asking questions and knew it was time to fess up. Putting her empty cup down trying not to make a face of disgust, she started off with his first question. "Her name is Vendeth...or at least that's the official name she gave me. Malika sent her, but she wanted more than just payment." Tsuna held her shoulder feeling a bit nausous from the sensation of pain that was now ingrained in her memory. "Guess, taking that wallet was a bad idea...should have listened to you Micha'el." Of course, she regretted her choice, but it was to late to change things now. "As for the City of Crows we seek audience with your superior. She possibly knows all there is about Necromancy and then some, I imagine. Ivan, my adoptive father, has fallen ill. Some kind of virus spread by undead birds...we're just hoping to find a cure." She almost looked defeated after telling him the whole truth and was prepared for the worst. She would solely accept punishment knowing that her teammates had been subjected enough to it.
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Posted: Tue Dec 24, 2024 10:46 am
~
Once like a dream you looked at me
And everything felt new - time flicked away
The path seemed to fade, my hope restored by you ± : . : ± : . : ± : . : ± Scarlot Tamiya-Satoru ± : . : ± : . : ± : . : ± Before it's too late... this could all disappear
Before the doors close... and it comes to an end
With you by my side I will fight and defend
I'll fight and defend, yeah, yeah
~
Micha'el noticed Horakhty barely raise his brow the moment after Tsuna revealed Malika's name, and assumed he knew of the name. Whilst Tsuna paused, Horakhty inquisitively asked "Malika...?"
"Roze" Micha'el said. The daywalker nodded thoughtfully, allowing Tsuna to continue. Micha'el then looked at Tsuna, smiling awkwardly as she admitted she should have listened to his advice. Lottie tilted her head, wanting to console her friend. Then Tsuna went on to reveal their mission. Lottie and Micha'el exchanged glances, to which Lottie nodded softly, approving of Tsuna's choice to tell Horakhty everything. Micha'el could've sworn he felt his stomach drop, but tried his best to ignore it by sipping more of his tea and focusing on the embers within the fire. Lottie quietly watched Horakhty's expression go from suspicious at the mention of his superior, and then to concerned when Tsuna described infectious, undead birds. Horakhty appeared to be contemplating his response when suddenly all of Team Sun's eyes were on him.
"Whilst you have disappointed me yet again with this information" he moved to place his tea down on a flat stone beside him, "I am grateful that you have entrusted me some semblance of the truth. And which superior is it you wish to discuss forbidden magics with? I admire your drive to search for answers, but I fear that your assumptions are misplaced. How exactly did you expect to gain an audience with our Queen? You have already attracted a killer into our land from the depths of an insipid Greymarket, and I was about to deliver you, and possibly them into our capital? And what twisted rumour from Occulas accuses our people of Necromancy? I am quite certain the Royal Guard would have you chained up for something so vile."
~ Keep holding on 'Cause you know we'll make it through - We'll make it through Just stay strong... 'Cause you know I'm here for you - I'm here for you Now I can feel the fire burning deep within me
I'll be the hero and no one can stop me
~
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TunaDishCosplayer Vice Captain
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Posted: Tue Dec 24, 2024 4:42 pm
Tsuna MikiTsuna was expecting to disappoint him, but she knew thought he'd praise her for honesty. Still all her hopes were all abysmal since the Queen probably had no information to give, nor would it be possible to gain an audience. Besides, according to him, she's already attracted trouble from the Greymarket and being brought to the capital is now detrimental. The rumors that they had been chasings were confirmed to be just that...rumors. The Royal Guard would have a field day with her behind bars, but...maybe incarceration was the answer! She no doubt gain an audience with the Queen especially if she was viewed as a threat to the nation! They wouldn't have to go through all the trouble breaking in, and she can find out for herself if the rumors are as he says. Secrets always hide in stone walls, and as wise as Horakhty is, she was positive he's never been subjected to the palace life. How much does he really know about his own Queen? Probably as much as everyone else, surface level interactions and nothing beyond that. Tsuna smirked because she refused to stand down every time someone doubted her. She wouldn't doubt herself until proven wrong.
Maybe, she could push Horakthy into the idea of arresting her? She technically committed a crime by leading Vendeth here and placing everyone in danger. Wasn't her arrest inevitable? Especially since they were considering breaking in if the Queen rejected them? However, how would Lottie and Micha'el deal with her incarceration? Does she have the strength to put them through more turmoil? She had to keep all these thoughts in the back of her mind for now, and think of her teammates. They were all hurt and weak and needed Horakhty's protection just as much as he relied on them. Tsuna finally spoke up and simply said, "You're right...as always. I don't know how'd we gain an audience...rumors are rumors, nothing more...and the way I've been going about things really is going to end up getting someone killed...I'm lost and don't know what to do...Ivan's probably dead anyways..." She was at her wits end and whatever conclusion she landed on it never seemed right. At the moment, she felt broken as she lowered her head wondering what her teammates truly think at the moment. Maybe they'll have a better solution or some kind of idea because her brain was absolutely scrambled after that fight.
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Posted: Wed Dec 25, 2024 6:52 am
~
Once like a dream you looked at me
And everything felt new - time flicked away
The path seemed to fade, my hope restored by you ± : . : ± : . : ± : . : ± Scarlot Tamiya-Satoru ± : . : ± : . : ± : . : ± Before it's too late... this could all disappear
Before the doors close... and it comes to an end
With you by my side I will fight and defend
I'll fight and defend, yeah, yeah
~
Lottie slumped back, giving Tsuna a little space as she spoke. Lottie could feel the ache of the pain at her side beneath her skin. She suspected the rest of the journey to the City of Crows would be a painful one. That was if they were even going to be allowed in at this rate. She wondered then, what her parents would have done. She glanced over Willow Morta that was laying in the grass beside her, reflecting the orange light of the fire next to it. She liked to think that whatever memories of them that were held within it, were being kept warm. Lottie snapped back to the conversation when Tsuna pessimistically assumed the worst for Ivan. Lottie couldn't bare to let anyone think that way. "Tsuna" she reached for the girl's good shoulder, "you mustn't give up hope." It was funny, she spoke just like their headmaster for a moment, hope was everything that their academy stood for after all. She then couldn't help but glance over Tsuna's shoulder towards Micha'el, who looked back before looking into the fire. Lottie wasn't sure what she would do without him, he was her hope.
Micha'el used a stick to prod the fire, causing cinders to fly up into the air. "We would have done what we could in the local area to help protect those in need. But of course, we are pressed for time, and we would have sought an immediate communication with the Queen Declasia, or her subordinates, as soon as possible. We understood that the information about necromancy was rumour, but all rumours and stories come from some semblance of truth..." At this point Micha'el was rambling to himself before looking over to Tsuna and Lottie. "Something bad is happening - perhaps even something evil - and it has already taken it's toll on someone very close to us... to Tsuna." Micha'el looked back towards Horakhty and said "we have the power to do something about it, however small. If your master is a politician, you must understand to some extent what we mean."
Horakhty mulled over his thoughts for a few, long moments. Whenever the daywalker was deep in thought it felt like the world was shrinking in on them, deadly silent, and devoid of anything. How could one man make the atmosphere so tense? Micha'el didn't care to think on it any further, but instead watched Horakhty look between each of Team Sun. He was making some kind of judgement in his head, and Micha'el no longer cared for what the man had to say. Micha'el sighed, but was cut-short as Horakhty spoke up. "I think that you might be too optimistic for politicians, young man. But I can proudly admit that my master is of the utmost integrity. For now, I must insist that we rest... and the caravan shall remain at this location until further notice." Horakhty was about to stand when Micha'el asked "you know Shadowmancy?" Horakhty paused, sitting back down as he said "it is a common talent among our people"
"but that wasn't amateur magic. What you did was huge, and yet you're not a fighter? I've only seen-"
"I am no fighter, as you can tell from my exhaustion from one simple technique. Many of us must learn how to defend ourselves, especially when most of the world has already decided you are an unsafe people. Now, Team Sun, I shall take my leave. Please meet me here at first light, get as much rest as you can."
The moment Horakhty left, Micha'el shifted to face his partners closely. "I don't buy it" he said, narrowing his brows in deep thought, "he acts like he's a messenger, but his mount is something ferocious, that hold's the governments symbols, and he can control such an immense amount of shadowmancy?" Lottie fidgeted on the spot. "He was right though - if everyone in the world doesn't trust the daywalkers, then doesn't it make sense for them to defend themselves and all know some magic? Shadowmancy isn't used in Occulas. I think we should trust what he says." Lottie then gasped, eyes widening as all this talk of magic made her remember something. "TSUNA" she pulled herself across the grass to sit more opposite both her partners, with a light groan from the ache in her side, as she pointed at Tsuna and said "you have some magic! You made that green light and blasted Vendeth for miles. What did you do?"
~ Keep holding on 'Cause you know we'll make it through - We'll make it through Just stay strong... 'Cause you know I'm here for you - I'm here for you Now I can feel the fire burning deep within me
I'll be the hero and no one can stop me
~
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TunaDishCosplayer Vice Captain
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Posted: Wed Dec 25, 2024 4:28 pm
Tsuna MikiLottie consoled her like the headmaster at their academy would as Micha'el prodded at the fire with a stick. He entertained the notion, that regardless of the situation, they'd help where they could. Queen Declasia was their main priority and if they couldn't reach her then one of her subordinates would have had to suffice. Micha'el advocated for Tsuna further because whatever was out there was already after the team and they had to take actions no matter how small. Politics aside, Horakhty had to understand their dilemma and give them some leverage, right? As Horakhty contemplated their reasoning, making the atmosphere intensify with his judgment, he eventually gave his assessment. Maybe the team had to much faith, but he believed the Queen's integrity so that had to count for something. The caravan would remain stranded so the team could rest and regain their barring for now until further notice. Just as Horakhty was leaving, Micha'el stopped him questioning him about his Shadowmancy. He tried to play it off as a common talent, but his demonstration of it would prove otherwise. Micha'el pressed further only for Horakhty to note how unskilled he truly was and it was purely a defense mechanism and nothing more. With that he left them allowing them to rest until first light.
Micha'el didn't believe a word Horakhty said because of the symbol he used and how immense his attack was. Lottie on the other hand, figured he was telling the truth in order to protect himself as well as his kind. Tsuna wasn't sure what to think, but knew for certain that he knew more than he lets on. Keeping people at a distance was just a front, something she knew how to do all to well. Suddenly, Lottie mentioned as she sat opposite from them letting out an aching groan. When she brought up the green light and how she blasted Vendeth away Tsuna shook her head confused. "I don't know what I did. It might have been a reaction of the heat emanating off my weapon reacting to her attack. Like a spark from an unlit flame that backfired and sent her flying. I can make flames only with the weapon, its an extension of my strength." It was the best way she could subscribe her sensation. "Maybe the symbol of Declasia is an extension of Horakhty Shadowmancy, increasing his strength? He much be close to her in someway in order to gain that power."
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Posted: Mon Dec 30, 2024 9:33 am
~
Once like a dream you looked at me
And everything felt new - time flicked away
The path seemed to fade, my hope restored by you ± : . : ± : . : ± : . : ± Scarlot Tamiya-Satoru ± : . : ± : . : ± : . : ± Before it's too late... this could all disappear
Before the doors close... and it comes to an end
With you by my side I will fight and defend
I'll fight and defend, yeah, yeah
~
"Hmm" Lottie thought, confused now that Tsuna revealed she didn't know how she caused the green light. Micha'el was equally as dumbfounded, and even had a few reservations as to what else it could've been. Conversation quickly moved on to the symbol, and Micha'el put some pieces together. "He used Declasia's symbol?" Micha'el let out a sigh, "now he's the one keeping secrets from us. I've read that those skilled in Shadowmancy, and with the Queen's blessing, can increase their power tenfold using that incantation, just like you said Tsuna."
"Perhaps he's our ticket to the Queen then?" Lottie asked, leaning forwards. Micha'el nodded, looking to tsuna. "I think your plan to find information might be as straight forward as you thought. But who knows what Horakhty is planning whilst we wait here, and we can't defend ourselves enough right now to move."
"Talking of-" Lottie, readjusting herself to sit on her knees. "How did you heal us, Micha'el? The Aria has never let you do more than protection spells before, right?" She glanced down at her torn tunic, seeing the fire's glow glistening off the shattered, web like surface than shimmered almost unnoticeable different colours. "I..." he began, looking up towards the sky. "I think the Aria is connected to the stars somehow. And when I am desperate they seem to... " speak to me he wanted to say, but instead he chose "effect my magic."
"Cool" Lottie said, eyes widening as she too looked up to the sky.
Conversation lasted only a little longer that night, now that everyone was exhausted. They agreed they should head back to their cart and attempt to get some kind of sleep.
The next morning everyone was groggy, including Team Sun. They all emerged together, feeling less lethargic now, but still with some aches and pains if they forced themselves too hard. Outside, the Therian traders were sitting around a fire, whilst Horakhty was sat upon his steed staring off into the fog. Today it was especially thick. In the distance Team Sun could hear something roaring, like a low rumble, or thunder. Micha'el looked up, as if he might see clouds or something, but to no avail. "That's not bad weather" Horakhty said, turning Kafele round to face them. He looked now towards the traders, where one of them had split from the group to bring warm drinks to Tsuna, Micha'el, and Lottie. "Please do not be alarmed - I have requested assistance with getting back to the city... considering our luck as of late." Horakhty's eyes lingered if only for a moment on Team Sun before half turning Kafele again towards the fog. "This is what you asked for, I believe" he finally added as the roaring appeared before them in the shape of a large group of horsemen. The horses had fur as black as jet, and regalia similar to Kafele's, except much heavier and made from chain and plate. The horsemen divided into two lines, each circling the caravan on either side to create a defensive parameter before stopping and facing outwards like statues. Finally, two more trotted before Horkahty, clad in dark armour. One was wielding a bow, the other a sword. They stopped to exchange silent words with Horakhty for a moment, before both looked over towards Team Sun, causing Micha'el to pinch his arm out of nervousness. He could only make out that the one with the bow was female, and the other was male. They wore helmets so he couldn't work anything else out. "Micha'el" Lottie said, noticing his new habit.
"I'm fine" he said, quickly taking his hand away from his arm. He then watched as both the riders bowed to Horakhty, the male then said "as you wish, Vizier Horakhty. The Queen is eager for you to return." Horakhty then dismounted from Kafele, followed by the other two riders. "Team Sun - allow me to introduce you to the Royal Guard of Declasia, and their two commanders." Both of them then removed their helmets, revealing with young woman with long ivory hair, and a gentleman with short ebony hair. "Claudia Vessalia, and Nyru Statem. Their squad will escort us back to the City of Crows." Nyru looked over them, a somewhat steely look brushing over them as then looked over their shoulders to see the Therian traders looking unsure of the situation. "Guardsmen - relax positions and ensure our guests are warmly welcomed to the City of Crows. Their journey has been long and abnormally hazardous." He then looked directly at the Therians and smiled slightly, "Our kingdom is happy to have you, and you are but a few hours away."
Lottie looked at them in awe, feeling enamoured by their very presence. Micha'el felt humbled, attempting to memorise their names so he would not forget late. "Micha'el Maeus" he said, offering his hand. "Lo-... Charlotte Tamiya-Satoru" Lottie nervously added, smiling and offering her hand to Claudia.
((I hope this is alright and that I remembered Claudia correctly! Feel free to do what you wish with her or correct anything I didn't remember correctly!))
~ Keep holding on 'Cause you know we'll make it through - We'll make it through Just stay strong... 'Cause you know I'm here for you - I'm here for you Now I can feel the fire burning deep within me
I'll be the hero and no one can stop me
~
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TunaDishCosplayer Vice Captain
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Posted: Mon Dec 30, 2024 6:43 pm
Tsuna MikiTsuna wished she could be more helped, but that fight was purely instinctive and no time for actual cognitive thought. As for the symbol of Declasia, there was more to Horakhty that he'd rather keep secret. However, his possible connection to the Queen could get them the information that they seek faster than expected. Or there's a possibility he could completely turn on them and hand them to his Queen in chains which she wouldn't put it past him. Suddenly, Lottie questioned Micha'el curious healing powers since the Aria hadn't expanded past protection spells. The way Micha'el explained it was that there's a connection with the stars and they effect his magic greatly. Tsuna touched her glistened marked shoulder lightly as she glanced at the stars proud of how far her team had become. She was almost scared that one day they'd become too powerful and end up leaving her behind. The conversation didn't last much longer as the team grew restless and decided to return to their cart to sleep. Sadly, sleep was lacking and the team as well as the caravan awoke in a groggy state.
Around the fire from last night lingered some Therian traders and Horakhty on top of his steed staring out into the dense fog. The sound of rumbling thunder erupted from the clouds, but the chance of bad weather wasn't apparent. Instead, he had requested assistance from the city to aid them on the rest of their journey since their circumstances have become dire. Thanks to her no doubt. A kind Therian broke away from the group to provide Team Sun with hot beverages which she politely refused because she still felt like she couldn't keep anything down. Her stomach was still a mess from the fight and the arrival of new guardsmen heightened her nerves. Horakhty found their presences a relief and figured Team Sun would be able to get the information they needed through them. A group of horseman emerged from the fog dividing into two lines and circling the caravan. Their horses were jet black and adorned with regalia similar to Horakhty's companion but more heavily chained and plated. They stopped on either side and faced outward like statues creating a defensive parameter. Two more horseman came from the fog and trotted over to Horakhty exchanging some silent words. The armor on their horses was darker, and the female rider wielded a bow while the male held a sword.
Micha'el's nervous habit of pinching himself worried Lottie and when Tsuna looked over it hurt her knowing she probably caused a lot of those pinch marks. He brushed it off so the girls wouldn't worry, but Tsuna hated herself even more for making him feel that way. The riders bowed to Horakhty which made her realize that his station was higher than the team anticipated. The Queen is eager for his return which made her wonder what exactly he meant to her, a great deal, maybe a lover? Horakhty dismounted and lead the two over to Team Sun to introduce them allowing them to remove their helmets. The woman had long ivory hair and green eyes while the male had short ebony hair with blue eyes. Claudia Vessalia and Nryu Statem, guardsmen that will safely lead them the rest of the way into the City of Crows. Nyru glanced over Team Sun then to the group of Therians whom he welcomed kindly to enter their domain. Micha'el introduced himself promptly and Lottie even used her full name happily making their acquaintance. Claudia took her hand warmly and shook it finding her absolutely adorable. She smiled before looking at Tsuna looking a bit more concerned by the girl's rough appearance. Still she held out her hand trying not to judge her to harshly. Tsuna sheepishly looked at the woman's hand than back at her as she got ready to reach out her hand only to pull back quickly. She caught the faint scent of rot and undead bird coming from Claudia and immediately backed away. "It's nice to meet you. Thanks for coming." Tsuna replied hurriedly not bothering to introduce herself. She quickly formulated an excuse to back away from the conversation, "I'm dirty...don't touch me." She wasn't lying though considering she was covered in dry blood and dirt from last night. Her cheeks turned red as she distanced herself keeping her head down much to Claudia's dismay as she looked to Nyru concerned. "We should get going. We can make more introductions later. Besides, you know we can't keep her waiting." When Claudia referred to her, she wasn't referring to Declasia but Isabelle. Although her and Isabelle had become more understanding of each other she knew that punctuality was still a top priority for her. She could hear her heels clicking through the halls to her to her just to reprimand her!
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Posted: Sat Jan 04, 2025 1:08 pm
~
Once like a dream you looked at me
And everything felt new - time flicked away
The path seemed to fade, my hope restored by you ± : . : ± : . : ± : . : ± Scarlot Tamiya-Satoru ± : . : ± : . : ± : . : ± Before it's too late... this could all disappear
Before the doors close... and it comes to an end
With you by my side I will fight and defend
I'll fight and defend, yeah, yeah
~
Nyrua took Micha'el hand and shook it firmly. Micha'el could tell immediately that Nyru was strong, and quite obviously a fully grown man. It made him feel suddenly quite weak. Lottie, meanwhile, was still staring at Claudia as they finished shaking hands. Micha'el could see the delight hidden behind her face, Lottie was likely going to be talking about this for some time. Lottie then turned to exchange formalities with Nyru as Micha'el watched the woman named Claudia move to shake hands with Tsuna - only for Tsuna to suddenly pull away and begin making some kind of excuse not to. Micha'el raised a brow, but knew better than to question it in front of everyone. Nyru rejoined conversations once Claudia made a comment about keeping her waiting. Micha'el suspected she meant the Queen. Nyru visibly smiled, half-rolling his eyes, which surprised Micha'el. Surely this was not a way to act when discussing their Queen, right? "That's true" Nyru said, "Isabelle is expecting us for tea and sparring this afternoon." Well, that explained it, they were actually discussing someone else - though he had no idea who Isabelle was. "Royal Guard" Nyru addresses their squad, who was now half guarding the perimeter, and half conversing with the Therians. "Prepare equal distribution of the wares from the caravan, assure each buffalo can travel at optimal speeds without exerting too much energy. Our horses can support some of the heavier items." The guard moved like clockwork, quickly, but kindly, discussing what items could be moved from the carts onto large satchels carried by the royal horses. Fabrics and parcels were the favoured items of choice - Micha'el suspected the Therians didn't really want to allow more precious items out of their sight.
It wasn't long at all until the caravan was on the move again, this time slightly faster than they used to be travelling thanks to the weight of some goods now being carried by the royal guard - who kept a tight perimeter around the entire caravan as they moved. Micha'el couldn't help but feel a little useless. They were supposed to be here defending the caravan, not being defended. He had grumbled about this to Tsuna and Lottie. Lottie however was quick to remind both of them that they had already done their part, fending of Vendeth almost killed all of them. At the front, Micha'el could see Nyrua, Horakhty and Claudia leading the way through the fog. Team Sun were perched on the side of one of the carts. "Hey... Tsuna" Micha'el asked, "what was wrong earlier? When Claudia introduced herself to you?"
"Her hand was so strong" Lottie chimed in, peering round Micha'el's shoulder to get a better look at her friend.
Horakty, without looking at either Nyru or Claudia, asked "how long does Miss Statem plan on distracting yourselves for on this occasion?" Nyru raised a brow, also not looking at Horakhty, "For as long as she deems necessary to make you squirm with dissatisfaction." Nyru smiled silently, looking at Claudia from the corner of his eye. "She's actually here on official Occult business, the Queen will update you as soon as we return to the palace."
"Hm..." Horakhty finally looked down towards Claudia, "and how do you fare following your mission? I understand the rabid harrowsteeds were a larger threat than anticipated?" Horakthy spoke from what little information he had learned from an informant whilst in Southmarch. Before he had left the City of Crows himself, he knew that Nyru and Claudia were being sent on a priority mission to investigate dwindling numbers of Harrowsteed. Horakhty instinctually reached down to comfort Kafele, rubbing him on the neck. He couldn't imagine such a horrifying disease rotting his flesh whilst commanding him to keep moving. Nyru waited for Claudia to respond first, the whole mission was a disaster. An entire herd had to be culled... and not easily. Harrowsteeds were as powerful as they looked. Nyru couldn't help but feel slightly nervous looked at Kafele in the eyes. At least the beast's eyes were bloody red, instead of cool blue.
~ Keep holding on 'Cause you know we'll make it through - We'll make it through Just stay strong... 'Cause you know I'm here for you - I'm here for you Now I can feel the fire burning deep within me
I'll be the hero and no one can stop me
~
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TunaDishCosplayer Vice Captain
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Posted: Sun Jan 05, 2025 5:58 pm
Tsuna MikiClaudia cringed at the thought of tea gossip and relentless sparing that Isabelle seemed to always win! Nyru took command instructing the troops to remove some items from the caravan to lighten the load for the buffalo. The horses would carry extra weight optimizing the animals speed and making the trip more bearable for everyone. The guards worked efficiently and fast as they unloaded what they could with support of the Therians. Wares of all sorts from parcels and fabrics to preservatives and delicates were distributed evenly among the two parties allowing movement once more. Team Sun was now unless due to the protection of the Royal Guard causing Micha'el to grumbled unsatisfied. Lottie did remind them that fighting against Vendeth took everything they had saving the caravan, but she knew Vendeth's whole presence was her fault. As the three superiors, Claudia, Nyru, and Horakhty lead the front through the fog, Team Sun was pushed to one of the side of the carts. Tsuna kept glancing from the ground to Claudia sporadically until Micha'el asked her why she acted strange earlier. Lottie found nothing wrong with the woman's strong grip so why deny her an introduction. Tsuna looked nervously at Claudia and bit her lip before answering. "I thought I smelt...no..its not possible...I'm imagining things." She didn't know if disregarding her instincts was the right thing to do. She had put her teammates through enough worry and here she was about to make a serious accusation that she could barely confirm herself.
Tsuna stared at the ground again and before she could formulate another answer she bumped into someone. "Oh, I'm sorry I wasn't paying attention." She looked up into the eyes of the woman that had nursed them earlier. She was holding out a folded pair of clothes to Tsuna to which Tsuna looked bewildered for a moment before being nudged by one of her teammates. "Are these for me?" Of course they were, who else would the be for? She thought to herself realizing how idiotic she must have sounded. The woman nodded as Tsuna took them gratefully. "Thank you, Miss-" She wished she got the woman's name before she ran off happily pleased with the good deed she had just enacted. Tsuna looked down at the wad of clothes and then at herself finally noticing how shredded and dirty she really appeared. Her cheeks reddened as she ears dropped replying sheepishly, "She must have heard me earlier. I guess I'm not really presentable for royalty, huh?" Tsuna knew that Lottie was going to suggest a makeover which wouldn't be a bad idea. She need see large barrels used as drinking bowls for the buffalo, so maybe the Therians would let her use one as a makeshift bath. She could even heat up the water with her hammer. She was sure Lottie packed some kind of hygiene products and if not her maybe someone from the caravan will spare some. As for her hair, a majority of it needed to be chopped off. There was no way she would save it from the dried blood and dirt knotting it up like a rats nest. She looked to Lottie and Micha'el waiting for their feed back and opinions.
Meanwhile, Horakhty wondered how much time Isabelle's visit will occupy and Claudia couldn't have thought of no better answer than what Nyru just described. Claudia agreed with her partner since Isabelle really was there for business matters and they just happened to be in the same space as her. He switched subjects seeing how he had received word of Claudia and Nyru's mission that ended in disaster. She could still feel the string on her shoulder from the Harrowsteed that nipped her, but didn't think anything of it. "They were tough, unfortunately, a third of the herd was unsavable. She watched Horakhty pet his steed uncomfortably, and she hoped he'd never seen a Harrowsteed go haywire. We were able to corral the majority of them into an enclosure where they are being examined at a distance. No progress on their conditions as of yet."
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Posted: Tue Jan 07, 2025 9:23 am
~
Once like a dream you looked at me
And everything felt new - time flicked away
The path seemed to fade, my hope restored by you ± : . : ± : . : ± : . : ± Scarlot Tamiya-Satoru ± : . : ± : . : ± : . : ± Before it's too late... this could all disappear
Before the doors close... and it comes to an end
With you by my side I will fight and defend
I'll fight and defend, yeah, yeah
~
"Smelled...?" Micha'el began to ask before the Therian woman visited to gift some clothes. He could sense some kind of enchantment coming from the clothes immediately, and he suspected it might be garments designed with Therian transformation in mind. Lottie immediately ogled the sight of new clothes, gasping in anticipation. At Tsuna's comment for being presentable, Lottie said "you can say that again - but your transformation was awesome. Now - Makeover time, immediately. Micha'el, we're taking the cart, scoot!" With that Micha'el began to walk further up front of their cart, currently being pulled by a single buffalo, Lottie's favourite in fact. After a short amount of time, he instead perched himself on one of the sides, waiting for movement from the back of the cart.
Unfortunately the current travelling meant it wasn't too stable, but there was fresh water and a bowl, as well as Lottie's personal stash of hygiene items. Together, the girls took the back of the cart so that Tsuna could freshen up, warming the water herself. Micha'el could hear Lottie letting out some squeals as she inspected the clothes more tightly. There was nothing Lottie enjoyed more than a hero with a good attire, or a super cool new weapon.
Horakhty grimaced at the news Claudia revealed. "That is unsettling" he said, "they are powerful creatures - to fall to such a disease..."
"Unsettling was almost the right word for it" Nyru chimed in, watching the foggy path ahead as they trotted. He recalled fighting the rabid harrowsteeds in his mind and shivered. "Some of them were so rotten they should have been dead. I don't believe it was natural..."
"You believe someone, or something, caused this?" Horakhty raised a brow, looking across to the Queen's most trusted guards. Nyru gave Claudia a level look before nodding to Horakhty, "Yes. I believe foul play. Their eyes glowed blue - not red. Claudia was lucky that her wounds recovered, the healing herbs we imported from Shard is truly a miracle." Horakhty nodded again, looking back towards the fog, "Yes... a fantastic investment if I do say so myself. I am glad to know you are well, Claudia. I am unsure who else I could put up with in this world should you fall - everyone else dances around their words and is all show and no tell. Even Nyru is too quiet and bashful for prolonged company."
"And you are too sharp and impatient for my wisdom" Nyru quipped nonchalantly. To outsiders it would seem the two did not get along, however there was a mutual understanding and respect between them. So much so that jives like this meant no offence.
~ Keep holding on 'Cause you know we'll make it through - We'll make it through Just stay strong... 'Cause you know I'm here for you - I'm here for you Now I can feel the fire burning deep within me
I'll be the hero and no one can stop me
~
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TunaDishCosplayer Vice Captain
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Posted: Tue Jan 07, 2025 7:11 pm
Tsuna MikiLottie shooed Micha'el away so the two girls could have alone time in the cart they were currently housed in. At least he wouldn't be lonely with Lottie's favorite buffalo to keep him company. As expected, a drinking bowl for the buffalo was in the back already filled with fresh water. Taking her weapon, she dipped the end in the water and ran heat down through the metal quickly warming up the bath. She hopped in and began scrubbing every inch of herself almost raw with Lottie's hygiene products. They smelled like roses and other flowers that made her feel girly, but in a confrontable way. She let Lottie save what she could of her hair before chopping the rest off with her own weapon. Probably not the best implication for Willow Morta, but it got the job done. After she was clean, she changed into the clothes she was give which were soft and stretchy as she transformed really quick to test out their durability. The jacket was orange and white matching the white track shorts that came with it. The shoes were even made of the same material seeing that they didn't tear from her claws. She looked so different with short hair as she stared at herself in the small mirror Lottie had packed. "Thank you, Lottie. I look...ummm...nice?" She really didn't know how to compliment herself because she assumed she never looked pretty nor ugly. She'd just let her teammates do the talking for her on her appearance since they always knew the right words to say. "Wanna show Micha'el?" She knew Lottie anticipated showing off her makeover work so she let her friend drag her out into the open and display her.
Horakhty was affected by the loss because he had a fondness for the Harrowsteed and having to execute them was horrible. Nyru agreed, but tried to justify their mercy killing by noting how rotted and unlively the creatures had become. Horakhty questioned if they suspected foul play which was a possibility seeing how their eyes turned an unnatural blue instead of a glowing red. He even mentioned Claudia's wounds, but was glad that the imported herbs from Shard worked miracles. Claudia wanted to believe in his positivity, but lately there's been a nagging feeling from where she had been bitten. She tried her best to ignore it since her duties came first and herself second. Besides, knowing that Horakhty appreciated her company more than Nryu's made her worries disappear momentarily. Of course, Nryu smarted back and on the surface their relationship looked spiteful, but they truly respected one another. It was almost similar to her and Isabelle, but the woman's authority held her at an arms distance. Claudia smirked laughing playfully and responded, "I'll be alright. It takes a lot more than that to take me down. Anyway, we should be arriving soon. We'll make it on time! She wouldn't reprimand me!" Claudia couldn't help but celebrate her fortuitous luck.
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