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 Posted: Sat Jun 29, 2013 12:47 pm
"Everlasting Friend"
With Jin Ho home, able bodied and willing to do chores in their place, Han Ji and Min Dai had little reason to ever leave the house other than tending to the garden or a short stroll here and there. Min Ho also provided as much as possible around the house while her husband was away, not wanting to stay alone in her own house; it was a good opportunity to be with the family, especially now that her brother was home again. Proud and happy, their parents were more than welcoming, having kept their rooms exactly as they were all these years.
There was one small issue, but it wasn’t shared between husband and wife.
Min Dai was feeling especially restless, keeping herself busy with what few tasks she could have herself do in her age; cleaning, knitting and short walks around the house and garden. It wasn’t enough, and for once she pleaded Jin-Ho to allow her to go shopping. They didn’t need much; just a few things and she could easily carry them all alone when he tried to offer assistance. He finally agreed, caving in so that his mother could have her own time; she had been cooped up for so long, there was no doubt that she needed to stretch her legs. He had felt the same while injured, sympathizing and admitting to needing to finish some work anyway. Han Ji and Min Ho were a little more difficult to convince, but with Jin Ho’s help she was out the door and on her way.
The walk was long but she took her time, going at her own pace and stopping so often to rest if she needed. The particular market wasn’t terribly far; she would have liked to have gone to the larger markets of Pont but with no horses it was out of the question. Instead, the smaller, local market would have to suffice. This was fine; she was just happy to get out and have some personal time.
The Kyon family was prepared for the time needed to travel at Min Dai’s speed and all agreed to stay home until it got dark – it was still morning and there would be plenty of time for her to travel to and from, given a little leeway for rest breaks and shopping. It had taken about an hour on foot to reach the small, humble shops set out along a fork in the path; farmers, fishermen and on this lucky day even butchers had produce to sell, much to Min Dai’s joy. She would have to contain herself, making sure not to buy more than needed or more she could carry. Shaking the hands of each peddler, she would make small talk regardless of whether it was their first meeting or not. The woman was naturally friendly – something she had passed along to her children. It broke her heart the first time she laid eyes on Jin Ho upon returning home for the first time in years; broken, almost hollow. He had changed so drastically but she was happy to see that therapy seemed to bring him back up, even if only a little.
When noon rolled around she stopped and sat, enjoying a humble meal of soup and bread with one of the shop owners, passing the time by telling stories of their children and even of their time as kids. Everyone was so pleased to speak, recalling happier days of their youth and joking of their old age now that the time was upon them. Each had passed the point of feeling bitter, knowing well that they had lived their lives and it was time to pass the torch to the next generation, easily making light of it all. None of them wanted to die, of course, but that was life.
Shopping continued shortly after, offering goodbyes and well wishes as they parted ways. With her haul of fresh vegetables, some fruit and some meat and grain, Min Dai found that it was no longer necessary to stay any longer and departed, happy with her trip and having made new friends. Weighed down only a little, the return trip was a bit more drawn out. She had to stop every so often to allow her arms rest or to catch her breath, but in due time she made it home. The sun was still up and there was plenty of time to relax before starting dinner.
Jin Ho was in the garden with Blaithe, Hero and Min Ho; Han Ji asleep by the fireplace as he often was. Such a simple life was all Min Dai could have ever hoped for and living it with her family warmed her heart. She couldn’t have asked for anything better. Leaving her husband at rest, she put her spoils away before heading out to the garden to help the others.
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Posted: Sat Jun 29, 2013 1:26 pm
"Right Death Before"
Aside from some soreness and fatigue on Min Dai’s part, the morning had been calm and normal. Min Ho had prepared breakfast for everyone as their mother woke up exhausted, requesting to stay in bed until she felt better. Assuring everyone it was nothing, she asked to be left to rest – Han Ji was skeptical, but he obliged and spent the day in his chair as normal.
Jin Ho was a bit more concerned but did not make this vocal, instead keeping an eye on the situation and suggesting everyone remain out of the bedroom – especially when the coughing started. It wasn’t long ago that Georgie had stopped by, but now he was starting to wish he would come by again. When confronted by his sister or father he merely waved any suspicions off, asking for just a little more time to figure things out. His mother was rarely sick, worries planted within all of them but for now all he could do was keep them calm until all the details were gathered. Han Ji silently blamed two household guests, keeping to himself and sleeping the day off to keep distracted. Min Ho tended the garden while Jin Ho periodically checked on their mother, otherwise holing himself in his room to look over his research.
Blaithe and Hero were kept in their bedroom, keeping each other company. They could smell the death already, staying quiet about it despite their distracted daze. Quite honestly, they wanted to sit by Min Dai’s side but Jin Ho wouldn’t allow it, not wanting to perpetuate his father’s ideas or fears for now. Neither were happy with it but they understood – Han Ji never made it secret that he hated their kind.
When she was awake Jin Ho stayed by his mother’s side, constantly fretting over whether she was comfortable or needed anything. His father was frustrated and obviously so, vocally believing that it should be him by his wife’s side, tending to her in her weakened state. He was surprised by how sudden this all was if his hunch was correct, always refusing to listen to Jin Ho’s lectures or ranting over what the Plague, and its sentient embodiments. He was ignorant to how everything worked despite his son’s several attempts to educate him and Jin Ho wanted so badly to suggest listening for once, biting his tongue rather than starting a fight in such a time. He didn’t want to promise that it wasn’t serious and that everything would be okay but it wasn’t something he could do and still tell the truth. He couldn’t do that to his father, sister or mother. He didn’t have it in him, he just couldn’t.
Constantly refreshing her water, laying wet cloths over her forehead and keeping her covered, Jin Ho did his best to keep her as comfortable as possible despite knowing it was a losing battle on both their parts. He kept as strong as possible despite his heart tearing in two, holding back tears as he could see her energy drain. It must have happened yesterday at the shops… He shivered, not wanting to think about how many people had become infected or worse – how many people she infected without realizing. They would have to throw out all of the produce that she touched from the garden, all the vegetables, meats and fruits she bought yesterday. Everything was going to have to be burned as far from the house as they could manage. All in all that was disappointing but it didn’t matter, not right now.
In the other room Han Ji would whisper to Min Ho, anger and disdain obvious. While Jin Ho did his best to convince him that they didn’t know what was wrong with her quite yet, as her husband he was convinced. While he had never seen the symptoms of the Plague in person he knew that Min Dai was never sick; she was always healthy, happy and for all of their time together she was practically the sun to him. She was always what kept others happy when she was in the room and no one could argue that she could make even the most discontented person smile given time. All of this was being taken away from him, the light of his life, and the only thing he could think to lay blame on was Blaithe and her cat. He knew he had little reason to trust or like them, and now everything was coming to light.
Min Ho, taught by her husband what he knew of the Plagues as a doctor, would silently argue with him for Jin Ho’s sake but her words weighed little with his prejudice. Min Ho was not the one he sent to be a scholar and even then he wouldn’t listen to anyone telling him differently from what he ‘knew.’ This was all their fault; he should have never allowed them into his house and now his wife lay dying and he couldn’t be with her – not unless he wanted to die, too.
The night was long, Jin Ho slept little after convincing the others to rest. He offered his own bedroom to his father, who refused vehemently since that was where the ‘cause’ of all this rested. Instead he slept on his usual chair, but without the usual warmth from the fireplace it was a bit more difficult than usual drifting off. Blaithe and Hero were still kept in the room, especially after Han Ji’s newfound vocal spats. Min Ho slept in her brother’s room to keep them company, knowing full well that it wasn’t their fault. She didn’t want them to be lonely in her brother’s absence; she had been told that he would be with their mother all night to keep an eye on her.
The next morning her cough was worse, constantly needing a clean rag every half hour. She had begun coughing blood – only in small amounts but as the day progressed it got worse and worse. The coughing would cause headaches, especially during long fits, constantly winding her. Forced to sleep for as much of the day as possible, it wasn’t much of a problem when she could barely hold her eyes open anyway. Buboes had also started forming around her joints; lymph nodes swelling and becoming so sore she could barely adjust herself anymore. Jin Ho could barely stand to watch but he knew he was the only one who could stay with her, afraid of it spreading to anyone else who got near. This was only the beginning and he wasn’t sure how he was going to continue with this.
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Posted: Sat Jun 29, 2013 1:45 pm
“Mother May I”
”Don’t touch me…” JinHo requested, his voice low and solemn at his father’s approach. His eyes were red, tired; dark circles resting beneath his eyes from his third day of not sleeping. Holding his arm up, palm outward in defense, he stood between his parents’ bedroom and Han Ji.
Brows furrowed and lips pulled tightly, Han Ji couldn’t help but scoff, ”What do you expect me to do? My wife is dying and I’m not allowed to see her?”
Eyes hardening, Jin Ho dropped his arm to his side, closing his eyes and shaking his head. His frustration was clear and not just from needing rest. ”If you would like to survive, I would suggest not. Now please, keep your voice down; she’s resting…”
”How dare you say such a thing to me, your father! Such disrespect!” Han Ji spat, quickly and roughly crossing his arms over his chest. ”I have every right to have you leave, boy. And here I thought you coming home would have been a good thing!”
Jin Ho stared for a moment, brows knitting together as frustration and confusion painted itself on his face. Opening his mouth as if to speak, he swallowed his words and closed his lips before shaking his head, motioning for his father to go back to the couch. ”This is not our fault, father… She must have contracted it at the market…”
”And just who was the first to agree to her leaving, Jin Ho? If it weren’t for you, she would have stayed home and she would have been safe!”
A wave of misplaced guilt washed over Jin Ho, looking away from his father as he mentally cursed himself. It was true, he probably shouldn’t have allowed her to leave so easily. Once again he had made a poor judgment call, this time at the expense of someone else rather than himself. His hand drifted to his stumped arm, mindlessly grabbing it as he let out a shallow breath. Her illness wasn’t his fault, but perhaps it could have been avoided.
Angered, Han Ji stormed off into the other room, throwing himself onto the chair like a child leaving Jin Ho in the hall, confused and further heartbroken.
While no one else was allowed in the room, Min Ho kept watch in order for Jin Ho to get some much needed rest. Sleep came easy but rest itself was impossible, tossing and turning in his sleep before forcing himself up. It was pointless to even try at this point. With Blaithe and Hero sitting inches away from his face on the pillow, he lifted his hand and gently pet the two of them with a single finger each, sighing discontentedly. ”Do not let my father’s words get to you…”
”We know…” Blaithe said, her voice barely piercing the air around them as Hero nodded, gently nudging Jin Ho’s stationary finger.
Despite resting being out of the question, he remained in his room for a couple of hours, resorting to more research to distract himself and to stay out of further trouble with his father. Min Dai would have to rest as much as possible and with him in the room he knew she was self-conscious when awake.
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Posted: Sat Jun 29, 2013 2:38 pm
“Once Upon Your Dead Body”
Morning seemed to come early, everyone already active despite the sun having barely risen over the horizon. Time passed by slowly, the day dragging on but once evening fell things slowed down. Left in the room once again, the two Phasmas did what they could to pass their day as quickly as possible.
With her head resting lightly against Hero’s knee, the two sitting in the window sill and staring out to the darkening evening sky, Blaithe sighed. She was growing restless with the smell of death surrounding them but she knew better than the wander out into the house. It was practically a hunger at this point and they were deprived. Unable but to help feeling guilty she turned her head to look up at her companion. ”Do you think we should have said something to Jin Ho much sooner…?” she asked, voice trailing off when she looked away again. They had smelled it as soon as Min Dai had returned from her shopping trip. Perhaps neither had had a second thought about it at the time, but now that it was getting worse she almost felt as if it truly was her fault. Nothing could have been done about it but they could have been better prepared. Luckily the food was thrown out before any could be ingested and it didn’t spread.
”There was nothing that they could have done,” he said, shaking his head without looking down. He was just as restless and part of him felt like perhaps their confinement was justified for the same reasons Blaithe felt remorse. ”Her suffering will end soon…”
”I know…” Blaithe said, defeated. While the scent was stronger today than it had been for the past few days, she could already smell it dwindling in the air. Today was going to be the day, despite it generally lasting a week. Min Dai was getting on in years, her body weak against outside pathogens and it couldn’t fight much longer.
Shouting could be heard from the living room; something that was becoming a regular occurrence. Of course they were from Han Ji, though this time they were much angrier and pointed. While it was pointless, Blaithe’s hands covered the sides of her head as he spouted curses and hateful slurs about her and Hero. It was obvious he was trying to be heard, to make them feel bad over something they had no control over despite what he seemed to think. Hearing Jin Ho argue back made her feel a little better but just as he had been for the last week, Han Ji wouldn’t listen at all. She knew it wasn’t her fault but words hurt. As a tool for writing she knew this better than anyone. Lifting her hands from her face, what little expression she could give softened. Her Grimm’s voice sounded different this time, she had never heard this tone from him.
Both Min Ho and Jin Ho yelled at the same time, directed at their father before the squabbling continued incoherently behind the wall. Blaithe and Hero knew what had happened, the two of them dropping their heads in respect. They could only hope that it was quick; Min Dai had suffered enough.
The house had gone quiet aside from footsteps, doors opening and shuffling. They were preparing everything – or rather, Jin Ho was. Everything had to be removed from the bedroom to be burned, including the body and anything she had touched. It took several hours, some of them completely quiet as Blaithe and Hero silently relished each other’s company, before any signs of life returned to the house. The bickering continued, this time closer to the door as Jin Ho attempted to retire, followed closely by a still furious Han Ji.
”If it weren’t for their kind, this never would have happened!”
”You know nothing about them, how can you place such blame without hesitation? Blaithe and Hero are harmless; Phasmas’! They are completely incapable of spreading the Plague! You would know this if you would just listen to me!”
”There is no need to listen to talk of them! They are all dirty diseases and have no place with us! If it weren’t for them--”
Frustration and exhaustion clear in his voice, Jin Ho let out an exasperated howl. ”Your ignorance is infuriating! This is no fault of theirs!”
Without much chance to continue, Jin Ho entered the room and closed the door behind him leaving his father hanging. Behind the door he could be heard mumbling angrily to himself before storming off, but Jin Ho paid him no mind; instead walking straight to his writing desk, hanging his head and burying his face in his hand.
Exchanging glances, Blaithe motioned for Hero to take her to Jin Ho’s side; something he obliged wordlessly. There wasn’t much they could do but once Blaithe was placed by her Grimm’s elbow, Hero sat beside them with his paw resting gently on Jin Ho’s arm – the other on Blaithe’s back.
”Oji…” she said mindlessly, not caring to correct herself as she wrapped her arms around his elbow.
Jin Ho moved his hand, eyes and face wet and red as he stared. It had been so long since she called him that, so long since he had requested for her not to. His heart sank as he could only cry harder, lowering his hand so that they could climb on top of or grab if they felt inclined. Right now they were his only comfort despite the words of his father, pushing them away from the forefront of his mind. He knew they were false, having been educated on Plagues upon receiving his own.
”I’m sorry…” he said, voice cracking before he cleared his throat.
Blaithe didn’t know what to make of her Grimm in this state; he had always held so strong, even when he had lost his arm. He might have changed, then, but he had never shown this level of sadness. Once again, the wave of guilt washed over her as she squeezed his finger, placing her face against his skin as an attempt to comfort. ”It’s just as much your fault as it is ours…” she said, voice soft and comforting. She couldn’t help but feel the loss as well; Min Dai had served as a median between the two of them and Han Ji. She cared for them despite everything.
Hero had backed off a little, his paw still resting on the man’s hand as Jin Ho wept.
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Posted: Sat Jun 29, 2013 3:36 pm
“Out of Goodbyes”
The rest of that evening had been spent in silence, Blaithe reflecting on all the things that had been said with bitter sadness. In the back of her mind she knew that Han Ji would never be happy with their presence and was bound to become more and more vocal about it. His words stung nearly as bad as Claudia’s claws had, her insides churning angrily.
She had talked to Hero about her plans not long after Jin Ho fell asleep, wishing to put them into motion once she was sure he had drifted. Hero was skeptical, not wanting to put her in danger but did as she asked anyway. He had plans of his own to be put into action once Blaithe was ready. When she was busy and not paying attention, he had stirred Jin-Ho, quietly asking him to follow within the hour. Their Grimm didn’t quite understand yet, but he agreed and pretended to still be asleep for Blaithe’s sake. Once they left the room he began to understand.
Held carefully in Hero’s arms, she impatiently urged him forward. There wasn’t anywhere for them to go but it was obvious that they weren’t welcome here. ”Have you thought about what this may do to Jin Ho…?” Hero asked, trying to deter her from her plans but she wouldn’t have any of it.
”Everything will be better for him…” she said, defeated and run down. Blaithe was tired of hearing the things that his father would say to and about both of them. She couldn’t be the reason he was hurting, anymore. Jin Ho needed rest and that was something that wouldn’t come easy with them around. ”We need to go…”
Wordlessly Hero did as he was told, ducking under a hole in the wall that some rats must have made back in their time. It took some maneuvering and time but after a bit they found their way out of the house entirely and into the warm, muggy air. The night was clear, almost empty; a good night to travel. Regardless of how far they could or would go, Blaithe was determined to leave and not come back. She had little to no idea of what she was getting them into but it didn’t matter – the life of a Grimm was bound to be painful. She had to save him.
”Why don’t you shine a little bit brighter, my lady? It’s awfully dark, it would help me see.” Hero urged, gently hoisting her a little for emphasis. His feet barely made sound beneath them and it took work to move past larger clumps of grass and foliage.
Thinking about it for a moment she nodded, realizing just how helpful that would actually be. She worried that they would be more noticeable but it was far more dangerous for them to travel without light and surely everyone in the house was long asleep by now. Lighting herself, everything was a bit easier to see, effectively guiding them.
Jin Ho watched from the window, brows raising when Blaithe made herself a little brighter. Perhaps that was the sign Hero had asked him to watch for. The whole situation caused his heart to sink, the idea of Blaithe leaving just as his mother had passed acting like a knife against his throat. Swallowing hard, he pushed himself away from the window and quietly snuck through the house to the front door.
”Blaithe… didn’t you once confide in me that you were afraid of being given away? Abandoned? Tell me…” Hero started, face neutral as he ducked under a large blade of grass, ”How is this any different…? Aren’t you afraid?”
Holding herself tighter, Blaithe looked away and frowned. He had her there, and while it wasn’t the most thought-out plan it was all she could think of. Was it that her own suffering was nothing when compared to what her Grimm would go through? She wasn’t sure but being the reason behind his problems weighed so much more on her than being abandoned. She had no answer, merely looking away as she tried to gather her thoughts. Hero’s silence didn’t help, especially when he generally tended to side with her more often than not.
Watching her light quietly from a distance, Jin Ho sighed before taking a few steps toward them. They hadn’t gotten far at all, barely even past the garden, before he approached. Offering his hand, he kneeled. ”Blaithe, Hero…” He said, voice hoarse and tired. ”Please… don’t leave me. I need you… both of you.”
Hero hesitated for only a moment, waiting for any reaction from Blaithe before stepping onto Jin Ho’s hand with her in tow. ”I’m sorry, my Grimm.”
Blaithe was torn; touched that Jin Ho would come fetch her and disappointed that she couldn’t even run away properly. What good would she do for him? There was little she could offer; she was small, helpless and in her opinion completely useless. What was she to do? Once again she had no words, silently looking up at Jin Ho, her mouth pulled into a tight line. She couldn’t even apologize, looking down at her hands before the two of them were lifted up and carried back into the house. What took several minutes took seconds as Jin Ho reentered the house, Plagues in tow. They were silent until entering their bedroom. Remaining in his hand, the three sat on the bed.
”No matter what my father has said… none of this is ever going to be your fault. I want you to believe that,” Jin Ho stated, eyes heavy and voice strained. It was clear that he was barely holding himself together at this point, simultaneously weak and strong enough to keep from covering it up. Holding the two up to his face, he closed his eyes. ”I have been… hard on you, Blaithe. Much harder than you ever deserved. I am not angry, nor am I upset. You are the world to me.”
”Oji…” she said, voice barely noticeable. ”I-I’m sorry…” She was still upset about being forbade to see Sloane, her closest friend, but right now that wasn’t the main issue. She still meant so much to Jin Ho despite his inability to show it lately, but now he poured his heart out for her. She was still important. She was still loved. If she had been able to cry she would have, pushing herself off of his palm to wrap her arms as much around his nose as possible. Hero watched, a small smile on his face. Everything was going to be all right, at least with them.
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Posted: Tue Jul 02, 2013 5:32 pm
“Dead Diary”
QUEST
Dusk drew shortly, the day passing faster than any of them had anticipated. Blaithe and Jin Ho had retired early – not to sleep but to escape the negativity emanating from Han Ji. Min Ho did her best to keep him sated and content but it would only last for so long before he would come to lay blame and curse. It left both Blaithe and her Grimm exhausted and on edge, weary from constant bombardment. Jin Ho could take it; he had become used to his father’s hard treatment when he was angry but for Blaithe it was still new. She had not known the man long, having been born in Shyregoed and under the roof of the Fellowship, and with each passing day his words weighed more and more on her fragile mind.
With the light of the window dimming with each passing minute a candle was lit, offering the Plague and her Grimm enough light for their separate activities. Jin Ho kept his nose buried in a book, roughly bound and poorly put together by the vendor he purchased it from. It was far from terrible despite looks, but merely looking at it would turn noses. He didn’t mind, he had no one to impress in this life.
Blaithe, as always, had covered the surface of the desk in papers strewn in no particular order; some covered in ink from corner to corner while others were pristine as the day they were manufactured. She had long set to work, mindlessly drawing whatever would come to mind to pass the time. It served as a decent distraction, thankful that she was capable of diving into her own little world and shut out those around her. Hero sat with her, holding a sheet of paper just above his head as a roof of sorts – something the two of them had started doing not long after Min Dai’s passing. There was no rhyme or reason as to why they picked up the habit, but it gave them a sort of comfort that nothing else could quite cover. It was like a shelter, protecting her while she worked. Jin Ho found this strange habit amusing, at first concerned but after some time it became expected, nearly questioned if it hadn’t been done.
There was nothing in particular being drawn; for the moment just aimless scribbles leading into forms of nameless, humanoid beings. Sometimes it was hard to tell if she was drawing Plagues or humans, often just silhouetted in various colors. Other times it was obvious; drawing friends, family… sometimes enemies, and while Jin Ho couldn’t understand it he allowed her to continue in the times that she felt compelled and wouldn’t toss them out when finished. He knew she had her ways of venting and even though the memories were terrible it was one way to get one’s story out. The poor girl had been through a lot, learning lessons far quicker than she should have at her age regardless of if a number held any significance to an Excito. Her art was becoming simultaneously more and less abstract – her portraits becoming more detailed and recognizable while her mindless scribbling took a turn for the strange and often obscure. As her Grimm, Jin Ho encouraged anything Blaithe felt inclined to draw, usually egging her on to do more if she ever seemed discouraged. In those times, he even recommended it.
She was still inclined to write but not nearly as much as she was to draw. It was strange… in Jin Ho’s hand she had been used strictly as a writing tool – he didn’t have a single artistic bone in his body. Even when he was a child he was never inclined to draw, though he did enjoy the works of others that he rarely came across.
”Come in,” Jin Ho said, stopping whoever stood outside his door from knocking once he heard the floor creak in the hall. With a short pause and silence on the other side, the door opened with a quiet squeal. Min Ho entered, and while it wasn’t surprising that her brother refused to turn around as he read his book it hurt, even if just a little.
Clearing her throat, she took a few steps toward his desk and placed a hand gently on his back. ”Jin Ho, a letter arrived for you earlier today. Would you like me to open it for you?” she asked, voice quiet and soothing. Their father had gone to bed, and while there were several rooms in between it was a courtesy they all offered each other.
Putting his palm down against the book he finally turned, giving his sister a weary smile. ”It would be greatly appreciated. Was there a name given?”
”I’m afraid not, dear brother, but the messenger claimed that they shared alliance. Perhaps it is from The Lady Estratus?” she suggested, taking a small letter opener to pry the wax seal from the envelope. Jin Ho didn’t look impressed; face reddening slightly as he held his hand out for the opened letter.
”I highly doubt that, Min Ho. I’m sure it is nothing; possibly only an invitation or a request.” Offering her a tired smile he nodded toward the door, a request for her departure. She understood and wasn’t put off, knowing well that whatever the letter held it was private if it was from the Fellowship. She left wordlessly, the door clicking quietly behind her.
Blaithe looked up curiously as Jin Ho read the letter, Hero moving their paper shelter at her own silent request. Whatever business it was, she could easily see the confusion on his face morph to irritation, his brows furrowing as he silently mouthed along. She wasn’t gifted in the ways of lip reading, desperately wanting to know what the Fellowship wanted. Was it really from Sage? What would she need of them? Several months ago she had heard that Jin Ho had been issued the task of leading a group of men to fortify a destroyed base; perhaps something similar was required again?
”Is this some sort of joke?” he scoffed, setting the paper aside. Not only was his writing taken from him, now they expect him to do this? It was almost like adding insult to injury… no, that was it exactly.
”What is it, Oji?”
Casting a glance her way, Jin Ho couldn’t help but sigh as he relaxed into his chair. Offering his hand to lift her, to which she carefully obliged, he held her high enough over it that the letters weren’t so big that she couldn’t read it. Holding her chin in her palms she looked down at the paper:
”Grimm Jin Ho Kyon,
Since the dark events two years ago, a certain manuscript detailing the fall of the previous Grand Magus has changed hands to this very day. It was written within Anica's walls by an envoy of the Council and contains extremely important information which must be properly documented and given the attention it deserves. However, these sensitive documents have a fatal flaw; the text upon the pages was written by a Plague's hand. Thus far we have not been able to locate any who hold immunity nor the skill with which we require to tend these documents. The fear of infection is too great for anyone but a Grimm or another Plague to come in contact with the manuscript. Grand Magus Estratus suggested you personally, though I will admit there was some hesitation.
We understand that these are difficult times and, indeed, as a Grimm myself I am sympathetic, but it cannot be stressed enough how important it is for the Fellowship that these documents be preserved. No, not just preserved, illuminated. These pages have yet to be bound, their words crisp and clear but it is not enough. Surely the Grimm of an artistic tool must have the skill necessary for the Grand Magus to put her faith in.
I have little doubt you will succeed, but I must beg an attempt at least be made. We have found no one else willing nor who has such favor. If you accept, please return some form of acknowledgement and I will deliver these pages myself directly to your hands.
Sincerest regards and deepest thanks,
Gavin Carsis of Maycove, Seer and Grimm”
The last word clung to her mind, surprised that they were approached by a Grimm for such matters. Then again, just as he said, who else wanted anything to do with a ‘tainted’ book? The idea sat souring in her mind, but for now she would let it pass. Instead, she looked back toward him. ”I don’t understand, what’s the problem?” she asked, curiosity filling her voice.
He scoffed again, causing Blaithe to flinch in his hand. Giving an apologetic frown, he continued, ”Sage knows that I can’t even write anymore, why would she suggest to a complete stranger that I could even illuminate? I have no skill, their time is wasted-“
”I could do it, Oji,” Blaithe declared, determined.
Opening his mouth to argue, he promptly closed it again as he swallowed his words. His eyes scanned over the pages strewn across the table; it was true, she probably could. She was getting better with each passing day and that said a lot given her current abilities. Holding his breath for a moment, he set her down back on the page with Hero, who helped her onto her foot upon landing.
”Alright,” he said, rubbing his temples, ”If you want to do this, I’ll allow you to respo-“
No, Oji… I want you to respond. You need to practice.”
Blaithe’s tone surprised Jin Ho, eyes widening as he removed his hand from his forehead. His mouth hung open before his expression registered, clearing his throat and closing his mouth. It was true… even he had just said it more or less. He glanced away before nodding once, his eyes resting on the darkened shadows of the garden outside. He would write a response in the morning and have it sent off immediately, much to Blaithe’s joy.
They all continued their activities, the rest of the night spent in silence.
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Posted: Sat Jul 06, 2013 4:26 pm
“On My Own” QUEST”Do you think that, maybe, Lady Sage meant for this to be my task rather than yours…?” Blaithe asked, nestled carefully in Jin Ho’s hand as he paced the small hallway between the front door and the living room. The Phasmas couldn’t quite understand why he was so restless; watching his expressions as he idly chewed his lip mid-stride. It was rare for him to be in such a state, usually occupying himself with almost anything so long as it did the job – maybe it was because he was expecting someone, waiting in limbo for their arrival. Was he late? Having little use for the concept of time, she hadn’t necessarily understood what could possibly be going through her Grimm’s head.
Without looking down at Blaithe, her Grimm shrugged before turning on his heel to start another round. ”I can only assume so, unless The Lady is so forgetful,” he said, a strange hint of irritation on his tongue. Blaithe easily caught his tone, her frown tightening just a bit.
”I think she only cares, Oji…”
From his hand she could see his lips curl and in response she looked away, fearing that she had struck a nerve. ”I’m sorry,” she murmured, too quiet to hear. About now she started missing Hero, who had been assigned to Min Ho on her shopping trip so that he wouldn’t interrupt. Han Ji had also gone, though given his distance as of late no one was sure of where – probably a local tavern, refusing to be in the same house as two proper Plagues as opposed to one and a stunted. It was for the best, Blaithe figured, the idea of the man being a poor host to such important figures sitting poorly in her abdomen. They would all be gone until late, and more than others she wished that Hero were there to keep her strong.
While Jin Ho’s apprehension grew, Blaithe did her best to relax – almost failing so once a timid couple of knocks followed by a solid third sounded from the other side of the door. Quickly making his way down the hallway, her Grimm made sure to keep her from becoming jostled in his palm, bobbing his hand along to soften its bounce.
Opening the door, they were met by slightly shorter male with skin just barely lighter than Jin Ho’s, mussed, brown hair, appearing to be speckled with the beginnings of gray, with the slightest hint of body pulled back lazily into a braid. He must have been in his late thirties by appearance, mouth lines and crow’s feet becoming apparent on his worn face. Pale green eyes, framed by spectacles rested beneath his mess of fringe that curtained messily around his face. Donned in green and gold, there was no denying that the style of garb was strictly Fellowship – similar to something Jin Ho himself wore for a time during his stay in Shyregoed, though far less fitted. He seemed fairly average, to be honest, but he had his charm.
”You are Gavin Carsis, I assume?” Jin Ho asked, Blaithe hidden inadvertently by her Grimm’s fingers.
The mage, appearing distracted at first, became surprised as he looked Jin Ho over. Being a few inches shorter, though not any more than that, caused him to appear even more timid by default, especially after giving a quick and what he thought was subtle look at the former mage’s arm. ”O-oh! Yes, hello. Mr. Kyon?” He asked, pressing his bangs back for a moment, accidentally bumping his glasses with the side of his hand before extending it for a shake, neglecting to fix his askew frames. Hesitating for a mere second, he replaced his left hand with his right, smile becoming a bit more sheepish.
Blaithe felt Jin Ho’s hand tense, and having not caught the glance herself she had little idea of what just happened. Clearing his throat, he continued, ”You may call me Jin Ho.” As the man struggled to right himself, she could feel Jin Ho’s hand idly move and correct itself, her attention drifting toward his face as he nodded in her direction. ”If you would follow me.” She wasn’t exactly sure what had just happened, her view blocked by Jin Ho’s hand, but once they began moving again she remained quiet and waited patiently as they were led down the hall, through the living room and toward the left – Jin Ho’s room.
”Jin Ho it is, then,” Gavin said from behind Jin Ho, sheepishly adding a quick, ”Y-yes, of course.” A subtle click from behind suggested that the man closed the door but neither Blaithe nor Jin Ho turned to look. Upon entering the bedroom, now that everyone was within vision, she watched as he nervously hovered beside the bed. ”I really must thank you for your timely response. This has been such an exhausting situation.”
Hooking his foot on the leg of his chair, Jin Ho awkwardly hopped it over to the side of the bed and sitting, nodding for Gavin to do the same on his bed. He was careful not to hurt Blaithe in the process. ”Two years, I recall?” he said, lowering his hand to his knee; Blaithe sitting contently as she stared up at their – her – guest, waiting for her own turn to speak.
Blaithed watched the man sit, offering another quick smile as thanks as he pulled the strap of his satchel off of his shoulder to rest in his lap. ”That’s right. This was written just a few months after Grand Magus Estratus’ coronation,” he said, holding either side of the bag carefully as to not bend or crease its contents. ”I’ve only been handling it, myself, for most of the season but I feel very impassioned by this project. It’s quite undertaking,” he explained to Jin Ho, having not noticed Blaithe’s expectancy, nor understanding her relevance outside of belonging to her Grimm, ”Too much so for some; if it isn’t the fear of death or the lack of skill it’s the amount of responsibility that turns them away.”
As Gavin spoke, Blaithe’s attention turned to the bag now that it rested between their guest and herself. While masked by the bag, she definitely recognized Hopkin’s scent seeping from its leather flaps.
”I assure you, this project is in good hands,” Jin Ho responded, gently bobbing Blaithe in his hand, lifting it slightly to close the distance between the two of them, even if just by a little.
Smiling appreciatively at Jin Ho, it took Gavin a moment to look down even after the bob of his hand before he put two and two together, a short ”Oh!” escaping his lips. His expression lifts fairly quickly to confusion, nervousness, surprise and then excitement. ”Oh, please forgive me. Will your Plague be handling this personally?”
Still appearing rather unamused, Jin Ho tilted his hand toward his right arm. ”I lost my dominant arm. If I didn’t have faith in Blaithe’s skills I would not have accepted,” he stated, putting emphasis on her name.
Given Hero’s absence she didn’t try to stand, but instead Blaithe offered a quick bow. ”I will put everything I have into this, I promise.”
Eyes now locked with Blaithe instead, glancing back up only to acknowledge Jin Ho speaking. ”Oh, this is very exciting!” Gavin exclaimed, lifting a hand to cover his mouth for a moment, though his smile still crinkled his eyes. ”Please pardon my confusion,” he said, dipping his head to return her bow before reaching over for his satchel to open. ”I admit I was not expecting you to be so small, but perhaps this is for the better. Illuminating manuscripts is an extremely delicate art. We can’t allow just anyone to do it, especially not with something as lofty as this.” Unhooking the bag fully, he pulls out a thing yet wide wooden box and sets it in his lap, discarding the empty bag to the side. The scent of Hopkin was stronger, now. ”Ah, before I present these to you, would it be alright to ask for an example of your work?” he asked, hesitantly smiling as his brows upturned. ”I’m sure you understand.”
With a subdued smile once Hopkin’s scent was stronger, her expression faltered before turning to face Jin Ho.
When their gazes met, Jin Ho nodded before standing up and placing her carefully on the chair, moving over to his desk and sifting through the drawers. It took a few minutes but he managed to gather a few different sheets filled with doodles to fully finished drawings that had been done over the last few months. ”She improves every day… it’s incredible, actually,” he said, proudly offering the pages over before scooping Blaithe back up into his hand and taking a seat once more. Blaithe, once nestled in the palm of her Grimm again, couldn’t help but glow just a bit brighter at the compliment, watching as Gavin looked the pages over.
Muttering a quick thank you when taking the papers, Gavin looked over them carefully while holding each page as delicately as possible. His eyes scan, squint and widen while he took it all in, all the while an enthralled smile slowly growing wider with each page. ”These are stunning. Always room for improvement, of course, but the colors! The details.” he said, holding one of the pages closer, effectively hiding his face for just a moment, ”It’s all so lively. Absolutely—“
”Skullful?”
The tiny voice interrupted from seemingly nowhere – feminine, but with a slight croak. The one in question fluttered out from the satchel, resting upon Gavin’s shoulder as a tiny hand clucked a bit of hair that hung loose from his braid. ”What did you expect from a paintbrush?”
”Oh, yes, yes, I know; but seeing it for myself…!” he said, handing the pages back without a second thought.
Jin Ho also watched the girl perch herself, taking a moment to blink before continuing, ”I’ll personally oversee her progress, but I know she has the ability to do the job well.”
With each compliment Blaithe seemed to grow just a little brighter despite appearing as if she were already as bright as possible, hue becoming slightly pink. She had been surprised by the new voice, the firefly’s scent masked by Hopkin’s and having been slightly too enamored by the familiar aroma to notice an entirely new fellow Plague before recalling that, indeed, the letter had been sent by a Grimm. However, she was unsure on whether or not to thank her new companion for her words or not given how matter-of-factly she came across, unable to tell if she was actually complimenting her.
Noticing Blaithe, Gavin couldn’t help but smile in response before glancing at the firefly from the corner of his eye.
The firefly, however, didn’t look terribly impressed until she noticed her Grimm’s smile; at which point she smiled back and giggled, wings flapping lazily before carrying her to hover mid-air. ”Really, who better to illuminate a Plague written manuscript than another Plague?” Glancing to Blaithe, she hovered closer but just out of touching distance. ”You’re so small, it will take a long time but you’ll be able to add so many teeny tiny details!”
”I would like to see just one example of your artistry face to face, if I could,” Gavin interrupted, resting his hands back on either side of the box, fingers slowly and protectively stroking against the edges. ”Just to be certain. It’s just – this has taken so long, it’s hard to believe our search may be over and we must make sure the pages aren’t ruined with mistakes. I mean no disrespect.”
Blaithe watched the firefly nervously, doing her best to hold a smile but it falters slightly before looking at Gavin, then to Jin Ho.
Her Grimm pondered on it for just a moment before standing, leading them to the desk before setting Blaithe carefully on the flat surface and dug out some paper, setting it beside her. Offering the chair to Gavin, he chose to, instead, stand between the width of the desk and the wall.
Surprised by Jin Ho’s offer, Gavin lifted the box carefully, smiling and moving to exchange seats with him, setting the box on the desk away from Blaithe to offer space. The firefly fluttered, landing on the desk as well, just an inch and a half tall beside Blaithe.
Blaithe, on the other hand, glanced nervously between all three once more. ”Is there anything in particular you would like to see…?” she asked, suddenly much more timid now that she was the center of attention.
Smiling expectantly at Blaithe until her question, the new Phasmas turned and instead smiled pointedly at her Grimm.
”O-oh, I – goodness,” he stammered, ”I suppose anything you’d like, dear.”
Sighing, the firefly stretched her arms over her head lazily. ”Draw something Plaguey. The completion of this manuscript is as important to Plagues as it is to the Fellowship if you’re to be contributing as well.”
Taken aback by her companion’s size, who was later introduced as Ysmay, by far the shortest Excito she had ever met despite the fact that she was still larger than Blaithe, herself, she obliged and began her work. Fast but skilled, she made short work of it, drawing as detailed a depiction as she possibly could of two plagues – black and white – circling each other. Any mistakes were quickly erased by placing her thumb over the section in question for a few seconds and once lifted any blight was gone.
Ysmay watched attentively, moving to sit atop the edge of the box and clasped her hands in her lap, stick-like legs kicking gently as they waited. Gavin, absolutely entranced, a nearly awestruck expression painted on his face every time she made a mark, especially when she would erase.
Blaithe was nervous while being watched, not used to an audience while working but once it was done she crawled to the corner of the paper, allowing full view of her work.
Gavin appeared stunned, eyes widening as his glasses hung low on his nose, mouth gaping, ”…Phenomenal.”
Clapping appreciatively, Ysmay kicked her legs faster before leaping toward Blaithe, twirling before landing. ”Great! Doesn’t illumination call for color, though?” she asked, keeping her focus on the page.
”Well yes, though I would assume it’s mostly left to artistic interpretation,” Gavin said, tapping his lips with the tip of a finger. ”Miss Blaithe, this is exceptional. Regardless of precise skill, the fact that you are able to eradicate any mistakes – I – there could be no better choice for this undertaking. Errors are true of human and Plague alike, but you—“
Bending over, resting a small hand atop Blaithe’s shoulder with a smile once they were eye-level, quickly interrupting her Grimm, ”He’s trying to say ‘you’re perfect.’”
Glowing again, unable to help but smile widely as she looked up at both of them and to her Grimm (who also appeared as if he couldn’t help but smile, filled with rpide), Blaithe beamed. ”Thank you, I’m very honored…” She wanted to stand, but without Hero it was very difficult and she didn’t want to impose on Ysmay, she continued to sit in place. ”I hope that I can do Hopkin’s work justice.”
Withdrawing her hand and crossing her arms, standing back to full height and her grin still present, Ysmay chimed, ”I’m sure you’ll do fine, just make sure the drawings match what’s written on each page, right?”
Gavin, eyes still locked on Blaithe, appeared surprised again, tilting his head but keeping his smile. ”Oh, you – you’re familiar with the Plague who wrote this?” Jin Ho also appeared surprised, though he was far less vocal about it, merely watching.
”Yes, I met him during my stay in Anica. He was working on something, but I’m not sure if it was this or something else…” Blaithe said, giving Ysmay a grateful look as her attention drifted from the box. ”I’m actually quite eager to read it. I’m sure I’ll be inspired.” she added.
”I see! Perhaps yet another reason the Grand Magus thought you would be best suited for this task,” Gavin smiled, reaching over to the box when she made note of it. Unhooking the front latch, he opened it to reveal the delicate pile of parchment; Hopkin’s scent now completely unmasked. Lost in her friend’s scent for just a moment, she took the time to enjoy it now that it was out in the open.
Keeping her arms folded, Ysmay hovered just a bit away from the desk. ”His penmanship is incredible but, of course, it was the composing Grimm who received all the credit.” The irritation in her voice was clear.
Both Blaithe and Jin Ho frown, the Grimm’s brows furrowing at Ysmay’s statement. ”If I am correct, it was the Grimm who wrote the initial draft while the Plague finalized it?” Of course, he didn’t want to suggest that Hopkin didn’t deserve credit for his hard work, but immediately he wished he had swallowed his words.
The firefly’s attention flicked quickly to Jin Ho. Floating a little bit higher, leaning further in his direction, her arms tightened over her chest. ”The Grimm composed it, yes, but none of it would have been put to paper this well without the Plague. I suppose it’s the Council’s business who receives the credit, but the Fellowship is—“
Lifting his index finger under Ysmay’s bum so she was made to sit, Gavin stopped her short. ”Hush, Ysmay. I am certain any Plague and Grimm would understand your frustrations but let us not take it out on them, hm?”
Pouting, Ysmay huffed and turned to watch Blaithe near the box, instead. ”I suppose. Apologies, Mr. Kyon.”
Jin Ho didn’t flinch as the girl threw her tantrum, merely nodding his head in agreement before clearing his throat. ”I once held a relatively high position within the Fellowship; I am well aware of their less than fair treatment toward Plagues…” he trailed off, eyes landing on Blaithe once more. ”I am the one who should apologize.”
Tilting her head, suddenly attentive toward Jin Ho again, her wings fluttered a bit noisily, very insect-like, but she stayed put. ”Is that so?”
”I’ll do my best…” Blaithe said, somewhat eager now, catching her companion’s eye and offered a timid smile, ”I’ll put a name out there for us, Ysmay. Hopkin and I will.”
Attention drawn back to Blaithe, her mouth a thin, bright line at first but smiles fully once she does. ”Thank you.”
Smiling sympathetically at Jin Ho, assuming for now that his arm was what affected his rank, whatever it was, he tucked his free hand beneath the pages in the box carefully. ”I must thank you both, as well. Truly, from the bottom of my heart.” He rested the contents on the nearest free space upon the desk. ”I shall leave the box with you, then. Please use utmost care and caution with these pages – they are our only copies. Whenever you finish, store them in here so they do not wrinkle or tear.”
Blaithe nodded, giving Ysmay a more genuine smile before Jin Ho lifted her back up into his hand; both Grimm and Plague nodding in mutual agreement. ”I’ll make sure nothing happens to them, you have nothing to worry about.”
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Posted: Sun Jul 07, 2013 4:26 pm
“The Impression That I Get” QUEST Long into the night Blaithe read the pages, careful not to overlook a single detail. Her Grimm had long gone to sleep with the Sun; Hero curled up at the end of the desk after growing too weary to keep an eye. Blaithe was fine with this, preferring that she stayed focused rather than interrupted by the constant livelihood of others as she worked. It was quiet now that those who remained under the Kyon roof had fallen into slumber.
Some things she found strange – in most books, at least the ones she had read (or at least attempted with her size), each person or character depicted had been mapped out in careful detail with physical and emotional descriptions to allow the imagination to grasp onto a concept. Hopkin, while Blaithe knew he wasn’t present for the occurrences written on these pages, failed to describe anyone. She knew what Lady Sage and Sir Sloane looked like, having been well acquainted with at least the latter, and while references had been provided for some, this Blood Plague left her lost. Not a single descriptive, nothing. How was she supposed to draw who she could not see or picture? Perhaps even, though she would have easily put it past Hopkin and his Grimm figuring they weren’t the types to tell tales, made her up? She could almost feel her gusto dissipate, disappointed with herself more than anything, but she couldn’t allow herself to give up quite yet. She had to do this for The Fellowship and Plagues alike.
Once she finished reading, making quick work of it as Hopkin’s handwriting was relatively small and easy for her to read in such close proximity, Blaithe immediately set to the task at hand. There was no time to lose, and the quicker she could do this the better it would be. For most, taking time would have been the more well-planned option, but even the tiniest mistakes were easily taken care of and even though she was small, she was fast and efficient.
The woman in her mind intrigued her… while she might not have existed as the real blood Plague, the mere idea of her was interesting. As she worked, her mind idly drifted to Sloane – he was there, he had met this strange woman. Little was told about anyone in particular other than the facts. What would he think of this depiction? A small smile spread across her tiny face as she worked and within an hour she had finished the first piece. In size, it was much larger than her, taking up nearly an entire page.
Without a break she continued, several more images produced before the Sun could even rise. Both her companions awoke as the day grew, Jin Ho travelling quietly between rooms, sometimes checking on Blaithe’s work before letting her continue. Hero stayed by her side, holding down pages or giving her space when needed. Since the pages weren’t bound it was easy to work; no arch, curve or bend on the perfect flat surface made things simple and her work was easy enough to do alone. She did not speak, nor did she make a single sound.
Sometimes Jin Ho would come and take Hero with, but not long after the cat would return to his spot beside his friend, waiting.
In the other room the two could hear spouts of shouting or hushed arguments, though Blaithe
couldn’t allow any of it to hold her attention for longer than a second before she forced herself
to focus on her work. Hero heard every word, his hearing much better than his brush friend’s.
Really, he was thankful she was so busy – Jin Ho’s father had returned home drunk, fighting his
children over their wellbeing and the Plagues within their walls. Blaithe didn’t listen, not even to Hero.
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Posted: Sun Jul 07, 2013 4:41 pm
“The Suffering” QUEST
Jin Ho seemed rather put off, at first, but as the picture grew in size and detail even he was awestruck. Both Min Ho and Han Ji were kept away from Blaithe and her work (though with Han Ji there was far less arguing; he wanted nothing to do with the vibrant speck). Given that he hadn’t read the manuscript himself and despite having been filled in, at least vaguely, seeing Sage and Sloane in such a portrait was almost a shock.
The fact that Blaithe hadn’t drawn in the former Grand Magus’ face, merely covered it in blood, intrigued Jin Ho. Usually, Anhelos were depicted without eyes and Plagues were often simplified but Blaithe put careful detail moreso on Sloane than anyone else. He hoped that she wouldn’t find trouble for this, and part of him beamed with pride for some strange reason despite his current distaste for the sword. Maybe it was a form rebellion? Yet, she wouldn't know; he had informed her of nothing about Plagues in their society, and while her own senses made him happy he worried for when her time came to grow -- even when it came to turning in such a precious item. They had entrusted it to her, and what if she couldn't provide what they wished for? She was unprepared, and perhaps he would regret not educating her in such ways sooner. While she could erase, there was so much already finished and perhaps it was too late.
With time passing quickly, Jin Ho came and went with the day and soon dismissed himself for bed. Hero fell asleep as well, far enough away from Blaithe to keep out of her way but still on the table. Several pages had been worked through at this pace, with no sleep and no rest, but several more needed to be finished. So many paintings were left and Blaithe did her best to fill each page to the brim with whatever would pop into her tiny head. She didn't need candle light, nor did she need the Sun - she easily provided her own light when dusk fell. It was becoming difficult as the days wore on, expending so much energy to use her paint and keep lit, but when the Sun rose she didn't have to focus so much on herself.
While she did her best not to let her mind wander, she couldn't help but idly pass thoughts of such times. When this took place, so much was happening; Jin Ho had been injured and she recalled even at one point she had been taken. She smiled to herself, flickering slightly at the memory of her escape. Had it not been for her light dimming perhaps she wouldn't even be here now. The smile quickly faded into a shudder as she forced herself into her work again, preferring not to think back on those times.
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Posted: Sun Jul 07, 2013 5:14 pm
“The Other Side” QUEST The next few pages, much harder to swallow, left a pit in Blaithe’s abdomen while she drew. She remembered these trials, these nightmares, as if they were mere days ago… Like someone’s cruel, sick joke against all nations. She could feel the bubbling irritation within her, scribbling down dark wings and matter onto the page as if it would cleanse her of her own sins.
Despite her Grimm’s harsh treatment, she chose to save him from the terrible symptoms of the Plague by accepting the invitation to become human longer than necessary. From what she understood, Sage had fallen ill under the same fate that other Grimms had, yet she came out of it okay. What if Blaithe had been selfish? What if she had chosen to turn back into a Phasmas to escape the pains of being human? With Jin Ho as poorly off as he was, would he have even survived? And by extension, would she have become a stunted, just like Hero? Would she have been forgotten, or would she have been kept under Sloane’s care from then on out?
She couldn’t deny that it was awful, feeling the cold threaten to deaden her fingers and toes, the pain of hunger and the need for sleep. Blaithe could remember Jin Ho’s reaction upon waking to see her – a seemingly strange girl crawling into his bed. In his drink-induced state perhaps it was amusing from an outsider’s perspective, or maybe his initial thought was that he had had one too many and brought home a young girl. While humorous looking back, she still hated the idea of being human. She was so weak, frail… sure, she was both of those things even now, but at least she didn’t live in fear of her organs shutting down at a mere gust of wind. She could feel the mortality in that body. In fact, it nearly made her fear growing, unsure of the differences between becoming human and becoming an Anhelo. Surely there were many things separating the two species, but how much different? Would she feel the sting of the cold or the churning nausea of hunger when she gained a full-grown body of her own?
Shuddering again, she glanced around the dimly lit room around her. The candle Jin Ho left at her side was burning low, almost out of wax while its wick held its last few wires of twine burn away. She never even explained to him that she didn’t need it, but perhaps she was grateful for it this night. Finally the Sun rose, offering her peace as the candle’s flame took its last breath and diminished into an ashen pile of twine within the melted wax.
This day she was thankful for Jin Ho’s absence, undisturbed in her thoughts and processes. These pages were much harder than the first half, almost made sick but merely remembering those days. She had never asked Sloane about what he went through; maybe she had been afraid to. He was in Anica, having been moved along with Sage for their own safety while she and Jin Ho had remained stationed at the Northern Base. They had been far from safe, especially since Jin Ho was too weak to travel in the harsh climate. They had been issued guards but even then, so many things went unnoticed, and from what she understood and what she read, it all seemed centered around Plagues.
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Posted: Sun Jul 07, 2013 6:04 pm
“Nice To Know You” QUEST Several days had passed since the beginning, drawing close to the eighth night in a row of non-stop work. Without wanting to get her hopes up by counting and by no means wishing to rush her work, by glance only it appeared as if she had a little over a third of the manuscript left to illuminate. While still rather far off, she still had plenty of work to do.
Throughout the time listed – Lady Sage becoming the Grand Magus Estratus, Blaithe could recall being sent off with Sloane as Jin Ho was tasked with his own missions. At first she could have sworn it was just a ploy to get her away, to no longer be hindered by her insignificant presence due to her miniscule size and inability to help with anything other than scribbling all over documents. She was fearful in those times. She sorely enjoyed the company of her bladed friend, even now feeling the sting of missing him dearly, but what if Jin Ho had, indeed, abandoned her? Would she have been happier with Sloane and would her Grimm be happy to lose such a title? She glanced at Hero, asleep at the corner of the table. A smile threatened and had she a pair of eyebrows they would have knit together fondly. He’d only left her side once, not since he was sent to be with her and since then, her own safety had never been in danger. He was almost a guardian, an angel, sent to her with the promise of a watchful eye. He had opened up so many doors for her and she was thankful.
Without Jin Ho’s thoughtfulness, even when it seemed like he couldn’t care less, she would have never met her closest companion. While she considered Sloane her favorite and preferred knight, Hero was her greatest companion. She missed Sloane dearly and wished to see him again, especially after such a debacle between the giant and her Grimm… She had been told about what happened during that visit, mixed feelings still churning. She knew of Jin Ho’s obvious feelings for the Lady Sage, and while she was unaware of Sloane’s opinion toward her Grimm to begin with, the idea of him becoming so angry over her was foreign. She understood his feelings and wished that Jin Ho would do the same, but it almost seemed like there was no way to mend their relationship. Maybe one day everything would be okay again. Hopefully, at least.
As she scribbled Sage on the paper, she stopped to look at her work. It was strange – while she had little to do with the woman, she never once thought twice about her photographic memory. It didn’t help that she was issued a portrait, but the only thing she had used it for was the Grand Magus’ outfit. She needed no reminders for any faces if she knew the person. This was, perhaps, a good thing. She could easily recognize the scent of a Plague but with humans it was much trickier; the only one she could instantly point out was Jin Ho.
Just as she had all week, she continued on until the crack of dawn, watching the Sun rise slowly over the window’s sill. Hero had already stirred, taking his place beside her to check on her work. He delicately looked over the pages Blaithe had set aside, admiring each piece – she had done so much, and she was so close. Instead of staying on the table as he had for several days straight, however, once Jin Ho awoke he leapt from the table and mounted their Grimm’s shoulder as he too admired Blaithe’s hard work. While he offered words of praise, Blaithe couldn’t hear them as she set back to work. She was nearing the finish line and she wasn’t about to let anyone down. She had to do this for herself, for Hero, for Jin Ho and for Hopkin. For Ysmay and all the other Plagues and Grimms alike.
This was her task.
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Posted: Mon Jul 22, 2013 3:19 pm
"Whisper To A Scream" QUEST[x]
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Posted: Mon Jul 22, 2013 3:53 pm
"The Moment We Come Alive"
While rest had been completely out of the question, with much relief to the three of them the Anhelo’s pain had subsided, even if shocks still ran through her system. Her fingers tingled, stomach ached and even the tiniest sound would distract her. Blaithe’s mouth hung open in exhaustion, eyes half lidded as she stared up at the ceiling. Hero rested on her stomach, cradled lovingly by the girl’s hands. Every few minutes a small whine would erupt from her chest, her entire body tensing with each wave.
Something switched in Jin Ho – much like he had when Blaithe had become an Excito he couldn’t focus on anything other than taking care of her, doting on her, and for the first time in so long he refused to leave her side for more than a few minutes. His expression was constantly painted with worry and Hero could hardly recognize the man. Blaithe, while she didn’t outright say it, had a strange sense of relief and happiness from his sudden change. He wasn’t anything like he was when she first came into the world but he cared – he cared so much and it was finally obvious once more as he waited on her hand and foot, regardless of whether she asked for something or not. The brush had missed this more than a drowning sailor would have longed for air.
With some time they had managed to get her up onto her feet, or rather, onto the bed. Blaithe was unaccustomed to her weight, the feeling of two legs once more, and the shock waves still hadn’t passed entirely mixed with stiffness. Even while hesitant Jin Ho was convinced to fetch some food for her empty and aching belly. While they had nothing but bread and jam, the girl was more than grateful and ate quickly. A few other foods were attempted but she didn’t quite care for anything else.
When the former scribe’s father and sister came home they were warned and the entire situation was explained, but even from their own room Blaithe could hear Han Ji’s scorn, his hateful remarks causing her brows to knit in disappointment; she knew she wasn’t well liked by the man and it would never change. She was greeted by Min Ho with a tearful hug and several compliments, but it felt like something was broken within the Anhelo. She could only stare blankly, her smile forced and her voice flat, but she was legitimately thankful for each kind word given to her. Perhaps it would come in time, even if it was odd. She hadn’t even been human shaped for more than a few mere hours, she couldn’t sell herself short quite yet and her Grimm’s twin understood.
Blaithe was exhausted; her limbs ached and she was sore, much like a child who had gone through a growth spurt – or maybe even comparable to the sharp pains that an unfit individual would have upon large amounts of work thrown their way. She forced herself to remain sitting, not allowing herself to recline back. Hero still perched in her lap, her fingers tracing and rubbing lightly against his face and ears. She could feel herself smile a bit more naturally but it was still odd, her face pulling in an unfamiliar way with each expression.
With the intention of giving the poor girl some privacy Jin Ho had dismissed himself to his desk, searching frantically for the black bound notebook given to him by Georgie upon his last visit. Excitement and nervousness causing his hand to be less than steady, he fumbled once he found the book, all too eager to lay it onto the table and begin writing. The way young Malt explained this thing, he would get a message as soon as anything was written and honestly even that prospect alone was fascinating and it made him eager to try. With his lip tucked between his teeth, he took the nearest quill and dipped it into the inkwell.
”Young Georgie,
You once told me that I could communicate with you by means of this notebook and I finally have reason to contact you. Blaithe has grown; her eyes are white – I can’t even begin to describe how beautiful a young woman she has become. Perhaps sometime soon we can meet again.”
Even with his handwriting messy, with practice on Blaithe’s behest he had at least gotten to the point where he was legible. Considering writing more, Jin Ho decided that it was best to leave it at that for now, at least until a response was given, and he turned his attention back toward the two Plagues resting atop his bed. Once again he couldn’t help but worry, brows knitting upward as he watched their idle movements, but at least the pain seemed to have stopped for the time being. He wasn’t sure he was ever going to get that screaming out of his head.
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Posted: Sun Dec 08, 2013 2:35 pm
"Worry List"
It wouldn’t be for long, they all agreed. Min Ho was to be back home with her husband in a mere matter of days – Han Ji was in need of care insofar as needing an able hand around the house just in case assistance was needed, but Jin Ho was to travel northward a ways in order to ship his crops. It was only a few day trip so long as weather permitted and as far as they could tell it would be clear. The twins offered their temporary goodbyes as their father was far less than pleased to still be sharing house with a large, humanoid disease. He held no secrets about it, outright refusing to be in the same room.
The arrangement was fine with the Quietus; while she didn’t like the feeling of someone hating her, she felt that if she did as he wished the blow wouldn’t be quite so hard. Blaithe honestly couldn’t blame him, even if he was misinformed. Jin Ho had tried to explain many times, even before Min Dai’s death, but the man was steadfast in his beliefs and wouldn’t budge an inch. Nothing could be done.
”Blaithe, may I share with you a secret?” Min Ho asked, a gentle smile gracing her lips.
Staring for just a moment, enjoying her current ‘keeper’s’ purple voice before giving a quick nod. Hero, nestled in Blaithe’s palm, perked up just a little as well – he was quite fond of Min Ho when it came to humans, and with her being so kind to Blaithe it was much easier for the cat.
Leaning in, her Grimm’s sister’s smile brightened. Min Ho glanced around the room for show, even though they were completely alone for the moment. The thoughts running through her head seemed to bring up her mood even further, causing Blaithe to lean in without thinking as well. ”You see, my husband and I have been sending letters back and forth during my stay here,” she began, her voice so soft and delicate; music to both Blaithe’s and Hero’s ears. ”We believe we are in want of a child. For now, I wish to keep it a secret from my brother and father.” The woman’s voice seemed so excited, so pure in elation.
That smile was infectious, a similar one threatening the Anhelo’s lips as what was just said soaked in. A child? They were going to have a child? Blaithe knew little of what was involved in humanoid reproduction, but they were going to have a child.
”I wish for you to help if you are able, dear Blaithe.”
With that there was a pause; Blaithe searched Min Ho’s chocolate eyes for confirmation. What would she have been able to do? She knew little about humans aside from things she had learned along her growth – she would need to study, need to learn. However, wouldn’t that be a danger to the wellbeing of the child? Blaithe knew she couldn’t spread the plague so there was little to no issue there, but with an infant, their immune system is automatically in danger until it developed. Worry spread on the Anhelo’s face as she attempted to compute all of this information.
With a light giggle, Min Ho placed her hand gently over Blaithe’s free hand, avoiding Hero so that she wouldn’t cover or crush him. ”Things will be just fine, Blaithe. Do not worry.”
”But… are you sure?” Blaithe asked, her brows knitting lightly as she continued staring. ”What good would I be?”
”Your support is most important,” Min Ho informed, pulling away so that they were not so close together. She had no fear as she learned from Jin Ho long ago of Blaithe’s lack of potency. ”Would you help me take care of the young one when they’re brought into this world?”
There was another pause, Blaithe once again processing everything being said. Her expression had fallen to a more neutral tone, her brows no longer knit in worry. The Anhelo’s hands took work on stroking Hero’s head, a habit both of thought and comfort. ”I… I will do my best, Min Ho. I will try.”
With that, she attempted another smile; though it only lasted for a moment.
Again, Blaithe wanted to ask if she was sure -- how positive she was about the situation. Support was all she could do, so the Anhelo was confused over the situation further. Of course she would support her Grimm's sister... especially if asked in confidentiality. She would do what she could, even if she didn't know what that entailed, exactly.
"When will you tell Jin Ho?"
Min Ho paused, but her lips remained in that gentle curve Blaithe had become familiar with in the last year. It was enough to ease her, even just the slightest.
"I suppose when it has been made official and I have conceived," she said, slowly raising her finger to her lips. "So it is just between us, okay?"
Blaithe nodded again, still unsure but definitely more comforted with the situation.
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Posted: Sun Dec 08, 2013 2:38 pm
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