|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
 Posted: Mon Jan 21, 2013 8:13 pm
Bastion watched her walk away, and the proud demeanor that he'd tried to convey deflated like a balloon. He slumped, realizing even the King had nothing to say to him at this point, and considered slinking away to go die in a corner. While considering, he glimpsed the sight of a lovely little thing. Familiar, too.. he was sure that little morsel had come into contact with him before.
Slowly, very slowly, Bastion slid a step to the side. And then another. Small little nudges of movement, with his body still turned proudly to his King, while his rear end came closer, and closer to that young lady who he recalled. He was just looking for an encore. A pick-me-up. Something to help him put together the pieces of his shattered heart and forget love existed for a little while.
A pretty little hand on his rear might be just what the doctor ordered.
|
 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Posted: Mon Jan 21, 2013 8:22 pm
Sadly, for Bastion, there was a firm one butt touch person minimum rule. He'd had his butt touched once.
And this was no place for butt touching.
A sly look of dismissal.
Butt touches were not for meetings with the emperor.
Later Bastion.
Later
|
|
|
|
|
|
iStoleYurVamps
iStoleYurVamps
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Posted: Mon Jan 21, 2013 8:42 pm
Meixiang sighed lightly in relief. She felt she had answered his question to the best of her capabilities and he had not ridiculed her for it. Nor asked anymore questions.
At least she hoped the nod that he had given her was only slightly approving. Nothing would mean more. She thrived on the approval of others. Perhaps only a little bit too much. It had certainly gotten her into some sticky situations in the past.
But that was the past.
When the Emperor had moved on she merely slipped her hands back into her sleeves. Glancing about curiously at the others who had stepped forward. Some seemed familiar, perhaps they had gone past each other in the street. Standing on her tip toes, Mei tried to get a better look at the large crowd that still mulled about before falling back onto flat feet. It was no use, so many tall people around their bodies and heads made it difficult to look around.
So she occupied herself with looking about their surroundings. Eyeballing certain spots that seemed like interesting perches. If one were to perch on them.
If one were allowed to perch on them.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Posted: Mon Jan 21, 2013 9:12 pm
Verusha's attitude was appealing, her confidence exuded in spades, and Mengyao gave her a careful glance, straightening his shoulders.
"A woman not afraid to say what's on her mind," he said lightly, a smile slipping across his lips. "How very liberating. You are confident in your words, and I am glad to hear of it."
The lady after was called Scarlett, and Mengyao turned slowly to face her, his long, gold and red robes sweeping across the grounds. She was calm, but there was an odd sort of tenseness to her bow, as though she were a string pulled taut. Mengyao said nothing, however, merely listened silently and then said lightly, after a moment, "Skill means nothing if there is not the knowledge to properly uphold it. Intelligence is something often highly regarded, but not nearly as prominent as it should be. You are one of the few fortunate ones who hold it."
And with that he swept away, back up the steps towards the pavilion that overlooked the gathering area, flanked on either side by the palace guards. Once he was situated he turned, long dark hair falling over his shoulders in elegant knots and done up with tasteful beads and jewels.
A smile was on his lips, though internally he felt almost drained. The crown atop his head felt heavier than usual, as though the mere weight of it was sinking down into his soul, the pressure lingering longer than it normally would have.
Time was moving too quickly. He would have to act with caution, and yet there was no time to linger. The Seven Kingdoms would soon be at war, and the longer he waited to make his decision, the less time they would have to prepare.
He stepped towards the balcony, his expression calm.
"Imryn, daughter of Alude, scribe of Edric, step forward please."
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Posted: Mon Jan 21, 2013 9:40 pm
Upon hearing her named called out, Imryn's body wasn't sure what it wanted to do with its self. Her cheeks flushed a bit, obviously flattered that the Emperor had called her forward no matter what might happen. Her stomach however was a bundle of nerves that made her want to hike up her dress and run the other way, wanting to avoid the gazes of so many people gathered there today and hide away for a few weeks scribbling the latest information down. There was no point in turning back now, there was too much at stake to give in to these desires and pretend that there wasn't a war raging on outside of her home. 'Ok, deep breath... check. Shoulders back... check. One foot in front of the other and not falling over in front of the Emperor... work in progress.' Carefully she made her way up to the pavilion area, focusing on the goal at hand instead of the massive amounts of people in the room watching her. Once she reached her goal, Imryn made a low bow, surprisingly pleased with herself that there had been no tripping, falling or tumbling over at any kind so far, waiting to see what he had to say before speaking. Her offer had been made, there was nothing else she could say to him at this time, in her mind.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Posted: Mon Jan 21, 2013 9:58 pm
Her steps were only slightly faltering, Mengyao watching the surprise first register on her face, slipping into what could only be described as shock. She moved forward, careful of her garments, and he hid a smile at the blush on her cheeks, eyes dancing with amusement. When she stepped in front of him, however, his expression was entirely neutral, a calm, dignified figure.
He reached out and took her wrist, lifting it up.
"Imryn, daughter of Alude, scribe of Edric," he said, and his voice was loud, carrying out across the crowds without having to yell. "You have been chosen as a Practitioner for this kingdom. Your skills at observation and the written word will be essential to the survival of this people."
Mengyao lowered his hand and held Imryn's wrist faceup towards the sky. He shook free his other hand from the voluminous sleeves of his robes and gently brushed his fingers over her dark skin.
Heat spread from the tips and there was a flash of a bright, brilliant gold as something slid from the Emperor to his subject, thin golden lines of magic curling along her wrist. When he let go a moment later, Imryn would find something drawn on her skin, a small golden marking:
Mengyao stepped back.
"Shaheen, daughter of Leodan, step forward."
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Posted: Mon Jan 21, 2013 10:17 pm
Shaheen watched as the Emperor made his way back up the steps to look down upon his subjects once more. Her breathing, which had become slightly fast and heavy in her excitement, began to slow once more as she closed her eyes and focused on finding a calm center. When she reopened them, she glanced down towards the dagger in one of her hands, and the blood still dripping slowly from the other. Letting the dagger desummon, she reached inside of her robes for a cloth, which she used to wipe most of her hand clean, the passion that she had let show through earlier still coloring her cheeks, tinting her bronzed tone slightly pink. She waited, as he spoke, calling forward one of the many who had amassed and offered her services. Watched as she was offered a position as practitioner. And then he called her name. For just a second, her breath halted completely, though it might have been more from hearing her fathers name then her own. Did this mean that she had done enough to earn herself a new title? She knew not to set her hopes so high where they could come tumbling down upon her, crushing her beneath them. So with a slow inhale of breath to steady her, Shaheen stepped forward, and bowed. And waited.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Posted: Mon Jan 21, 2013 10:28 pm
As Imryn stepped aside and Mengyao called the next forward, he could see the look in Shaheen's eyes, even from this distance. But though she froze momentarily, she recovered quickly, moving easily through the crowds towards where he stood. She bowed to him and Mengyao lifted his chin, looking down at her imperiously before he spoke.
"You are Shaheen, a warrior of the Kingdom of Edric," he said. "You are not your father, and I neither expect nor wish you to be. Your loyalties lie with me and with Edric, and nothing else. You are strong and you are of the finest caliber when it comes to strength. I know you will take pride in your work and lead us to greatness.
"I have chosen you as my General. I trust you will not disappoint me."
Like he had done with Imryn, the Emperor took Shaheen's wrist - however, instead of placing the symbol on the inside of her wrist as he had Imryn's, Mengyao turned her hand over and pressed his fingers to the back of Shaheen's left hand. Warmth spread as the gold tendrils of magic curled themselves into shapes, and when he removed his fingers, something remained behind on Shaheen's skin:
"Lan," daughter of Alberino and Mausque, step forward."
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
iStoleYurVamps
iStoleYurVamps
|
Posted: Mon Jan 21, 2013 10:43 pm
It was interesting to watch it happen. To see him call others forward and give them the roles required of them. Heavy burdens, all. Yet they had all offered themselves up. They knew what they had chosen, just as she had. They were going to war after all. Risks had to be taken. To here her own name, she would have to admit, was both thrilling yet terrifying. Careful, calculated steps. Not to fast, nor, to slow. One had to move with confidence, even if they had none. Head raised up she bowed just enough. Everything had to be precise. There could be no mistakes. She would make no mistake. "Your majesty." To be chosen to serve or not, she would do as she was told. Risks had to be taken, and for the kingdom, she was willing to do so no matter the cost.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Posted: Mon Jan 21, 2013 10:58 pm
There was little to be said to Lan, Mengyao reaching out to grasp her hand as she stepped in front of him. He positioned her hand so that her palm was facing him, her fingers straight, and pressed the golden strands of magic to them, forming a continuous line. Should she move her fingers apart, it would not look like anything but a few pretty golden markings, but holding her fingers together would complete the symbol.
"This is to remind you that protection in this kingdom only comes if you are willing to work with others to achieve your goals. You may stand alone, if you like, but nothing will be accomplished, nor will it be at its finest work. As my Advisor, I trust you to be loyal and competent in your work, as well as a cohesive member of my court."
He dropped his hand and stepped away from Lan.
One more. Just one more.
Mengyao cleared his throat a little, trying to dispel some of the tension in his shoulders.
"Hua Lifen, daughter of Shei Lin and Ming Hua. Step forward, please."
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Posted: Mon Jan 21, 2013 10:58 pm
Mis-matched eyes were smiling, while she watched the Emperor take on the tall warrioress, beckoning her closer to cheer her on quietly, placing a hand on her shoulder softly, a soft conversation between the women as he continued his rounds.
"I am sure you will make your father's memory proud." She whispered to her quietly as she lightly rubbed the part of the woman's mark, sighing contently. "He chose well, and I will be willing to help you as well as I can." She promised. Most of the members in this society were friends, blood be damned. She would not sit idly while they were in battle, if it came --
But the answer would not be received just yet, from the taller one, as her name echoed out from over all of them, her head turning lightly to regard the man as he watched her, quirking a eyebrow silently. Come what may, was all that she could think as she started from Shaheen's side. All she could hear for a moment was the clicking of her own shoes on the floor, and the small distance between her and the Emperor felt a little longer than expected, but her she was, standing in front of him.
Giving him a curt bow, she lifted herself up to her tallest - which wasn't much at best - she barely saw over the little noblewoman, Lan, at her greatest, but the way she looked, sometimes she felt taller than some of those she befriended.
"Sire? How many I be of service." She asked.
You can tell she was trying to be careful with her wording as someones were listening.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Posted: Mon Jan 21, 2013 11:54 pm
Standing in front of her was difficult. He wished he could say much more than he was allowed to, but somehow his tongue would not form the words properly. Perhaps it was a good thing; now was neither the time, nor the place for such things. Lifen's smile was gentle, but her posture and her words were calm and clear. How was it that she was able to be so at ease with everything, when Mengyao felt as though his insides would not stop twisting uncomfortably? The weight of the kingdom felt heavy on his shoulders; this was for the best - she was the best candidate for the job, regardless of whatever history they might once have held.
"Hua Lifen," said Mengyao and he took a step forward, moving around in a slow circle until he stood behind her. "You have been Chosen. I have called you forth today because of your exemplary skills and your intelligence, as well as your dedication to your Emperor and the Kingdom of Edric. You will take the position of Empress and stand by my side as the war begins."
He lifted his hands, moving aside the long, dark braid that fell down her back. Gentle fingers pressed against the back of Lifen's neck, burning warm for several seconds before it cooled. Mengyao moved his hand away, the golden mark glowing brightly on her skin.
He stepped back in front of her, and for a moment his eyes locked together with hers, and what might have been pain flashed across his face. But then it passed as quickly as it had come, and he was back to being the Emperor of Edric. He took another step back and then faced the rest of his subjects. When he spoke again, it was directed to all of them.
"Do not feel slighted if you have not been Chosen," said Mengyao calmly, sliding his hands into his sleeves. Behind him stood the four he had just Chosen, their marks glowing warmly, but it was not to them that Mengyao spoke to. It was to those still in the crowd. "Each and every one of you is now considered one of my Nobles.
With a flick of his hand, golden threads slipped free from his fingertips, filtering through the skies. On the clothing of every person a small emblem was embroidered in golden silk:
"This is an important position for all - do not think that I have forgotten your abilities, nor have I forgotten your pride in this kingdom. Edric would not be a kingdom today without those that support it as you do."
The Emperor's eyes flashed - a hard, swift determination, fire and ferocity.
"This is our world. We will fight to protect it, and we will triumph over all."
OOC This is an important chance for everyone to mingle / talk to each other! Cooperation among the kingdom is very important, so get to know who is here with you! The Emperor will be speaking to you again soon! Feel free to ask him questions if you wish! C: EVERYONE OTHER THAN THE FOUR NAMED ABOVE NOW HAVE THIS APPEAR ON THEIR CLOTHES! Unlike the "court," which have it ingrained on their skin, the Nobles have theirs appear anywhere on their clothing by the magic of the Emperor. It is up to you where it is placed, but everyone feels a strange sense of empowerment, of strength and confidence. The Emperor has given you some of his strength so that you can fight on his behalf and protect your home. Everyone (EXCEPT wildcards just arriving and the four court members above) is now a Noble (aka a Pawn)!
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Posted: Tue Jan 22, 2013 12:15 am
(( Molan is entering the gold kingdom. We blame gravity. )) From the miasma clouded visions of horror to beautifle clear skies that sang of health and well being. A rather odd shift to deal with if nothing else. As well... it almost felt like he was floating shortly after he was practically shoved through the portal in the chaos to escape. And now that felt so far away, even if it nagged at his mind, it certainly wasn't at the forfront for a moments time. Just a... weightless bliss... And then gravity took control again. While he wasn't terribly far up, only around ten to fifteen feet, he certainly wasn't on the ground. Be it some mistake of the portal due to the mass exodus overloading it or what have you, he was far from stable. He only had a moment to realize why he'd felt like he was floating before panic took over. Because frankly, he didn't know how high up he was. From one bad situation to another, he found himself plummeting down, even if only briefly, before he found himself landing rather harshly on something. His body protested from the treatment as he groaned unhappily and attempted to shift, wanting to sit up and get his bearings as soon as possible. Not that he was so sure he could, had he broken anything? Everything hurt... but if it hurt he was still alive... a good sign perhaps.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Posted: Tue Jan 22, 2013 12:29 am
Bastion was disappointed in one thing, and one thing only. So far, he did not feel the tender caress of she who seemed to enjoy touching the butt. As he stood there, watching his King choose his finest, the only thing he could think of was how cold and untouched his butt was. His proud demeanor seemed to slump ever so slightly, more with each moment, until he actually looked a little like a man who was unhappy at not being chosen. But in truth, it was far from the case.
With the ceremony under way, everyone's eyes were on the court ahead. Bastion's eyes were anywhere but - searching, perhaps a little too desperately, for any sight of the only reason why he'd offered his services in the first place. She'd walked away, and left him here, alone.
As usual.
He lifted his eyes up to the skies, praying for a miracle to soothe the ache in his stupid, stubborn little heart. His gaze caught the glimmer of something falling from the sky, and his heart raced in surprise. Had his prayers been answered? Would the gods finally grant him reprieve from his broken heart - or perhaps kill him where he stood? He lifted his arms up, ready to catch the gift that rained down from the heavens onto him -
A few moments after the impact, Bastion resurfaced to consciousness, and looked up at the figure swathed in robes that lay cradled in his arms. He groaned and sat up, curling his arms around the gift from the sky, and squinted hazily at the figure. Was it a woman? Certainly beautiful enough. Were the gods trying to tell him to give up his foolish quest for Mjoll's heart, once and for all?
He did not think even the gods had that much power.
Still, dropping a woman in his arms was a nice consolation prize. Perhaps even a temporary distraction. They were all he had left, nowadays.
"Are you injured?" The charm button was flicked on, as Bastion bent his head forward to attend to the little sky-gift, giving her his best bedroom eyes.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Posted: Tue Jan 22, 2013 12:41 am
Sitting up proved harder than he seemed as he found himself somewhat propped up instead, staring up at a man inquiring as to his well being. Well that was kind, this place wasn't so bad, if not for the look he was getting. Which both confused him, and rang a bell of 'oh... not again.' Somewhat disheveled and at the least a bit stressed. And perhaps sore from gravities rude awakening. He really wasn't sure how to best explain he was, in fact, not a lady. The gods were truly making a mockery of them all today. The kingdom, falling, and now... him. He shook his head a moment, gathering himself as best he could before replying. His tone was as flat as he could muster, neutrality was key here, and simple enough. "...I am well enough." Which was as true as he dared to offer anyone at the moment. He glanced to one side, recognizing the style of buildings to realize he was in the correct place. The gold kingdom, well that much was right. Blue eyes shifted back to the man who'd caught him offering an even smile in an attempting to be polite. "I apologize for falling on you, you are unhurt as well?"Yes, best to cause as little upset as he could. He was, as far as he knew, now at the mercy of this land. He saw no others at this time, so for all he knew he was the only one left. A sad fate... for them all. A brief look of regret flitted across his features he as looked down, brows knitting before he dismissed the thoughts. That was the past, he would mourn at a better time. For now, he was in a proud land, and was am ambassador for his people. He would be an example that could be proud of.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Reply
