❝ When it all falls, when it all falls down, I'll be your fire when the lights go out. When there's no one, no one else around, we'll be two souls in a ghost town ❞
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Posted: Sat Oct 10, 2009 6:50 pm
【𝔏𝔦𝔩𝔦𝔱𝔥 ℭ𝔞𝔩𝔠𝔥𝔞𝔰】
xxxx⊂Spirit of the Night || A Seer⊃
⊰ Lil ... Twenty-seven ... 30 Oct., '92 ... Scorpio ... Type O ... Opal ... Five-foot-four ⊱ ⊰ Employed converting religious and folklore texts from different faiths, countries, and languages into Braile in English, and other languages ⊱ ⊰ Destiny City University, MA in Intercultural Theology and Interreligious Studies. Graduated, Dec. 2018 ⊱ ⊰ DCU, BA in Religious Studies, minor in Folklore; Dec., '16. Crystal Academy ⊱ ⊰ DCU, BA in Psychology, requires another year to complete ⊱
✖ ꜰᴏᴏᴅ ↬ 〉 Too much salt . Bland ✖ ᴅɪsʟɪκᴇ ↬ 〉Strong candles . Strong smells ✖ ᴅɪsʟɪκᴇ ↬ 〉Being rushed . Impatience ✖ ᴅɪsʟɪκᴇ ↬〉 Lack of manners ✖ ᴅɪsʟɪκᴇ ↬ 〉Closed minds
▌ ꜰᴇᴀʀ × 〉 Being abandoned ▌ ꜰᴇᴀʀ × 〉 Corruption or death of loved ones
tabtab❥❥❥ ╎ᴏccᴜᴘᴀᴛɪᴏɴ tab She works for a company that specializes in creating different religious texts into Braille books.
tab At this time, she's hoping to figure out methods to decrease the cost and size of the texts in their Braille form, as currently their seer mass and cost makes them nearly impossible to mass-produce and distribute as openly as audio-recordings and non-Braille texts, which is often what she has found visually impaired practitioners do not find to be as fulfilling as having the actual text. She is also trying to work with people who are familiar with Braille codes in other languages to produce various religious texts in those languages as well. Lilith also has a large interest in compiling books in Braille containing different folklore collections, but that might become more of a side personal project.
tabtab❥❥❥ ╎ʀᴇʟɪɢɪᴏᴜs sᴛᴀɴᴅᴘᴏɪɴᴛ tab Spiritual, but not religious. Possibly Ietsistic.
tabtab❥❥❥ ╎ʜᴏвʙɪᴇs xxxxxxxBuild a World of Text and Ink tab Be it typing it out, or speaking the verses or sudden concepts into a tape recorder should she not have her laptop, she loves to write poetry and short stories. Due to few references of the visual world, her scenes tend to take place in very surrealistic landscapes, or often aren't given an exact location at all. Young adult fantasy settings are the most common for her, though she has recently begun to dabble in science fiction and mystery genres. Even has tried her hand at stories more akin to folklore and fables for children, or older themes more fitting to her age group - not that she's able to get very far with the latter without turning a particular shade of red.
tab Not a difficult jump to make, reading is also a big hobby for her, having a library in her room devoted to various audio and Braille novels, even limited as they are. What she's unable to obtain in those forms, she gets on her Kindle, and boasts a large collection of different reference, research, and leisure materials on it. She might not be one to put "Fixing Cars for Dummies" into actual use any time soon, but it doesn't stop her from at least wanting to learn what she can about the subject, and others like it.
xxxxxxxJust a Technical Girl tab Well. Somewhat, anyways. Since graduating high school, Lilith received a new laptop due to her growing use of her somewhat dated desktop. Portable, powerful - far as laptops go without being a "gaming" laptop, anyways - and almost always tucked into the messenger bag designed for its transport. Due to needing the text to be read aloud to her via such features on the computer, she always keeps a pair of headphones with her, though while in public is sure to keep one side off to not block out the outside world. Between that, her Kindle, her cell - she's rarely not listening to one digital voice or another, though that's not to say she doesn't prefer hearing an actual living voice update her about the goings on in the world. She likes to stay in the loop, be it the news about events in other countries, things going on in the city, or even someone's recent troubles or adventures as found in blogs and instant messengers. And texts. Lilith has finally given into texting, much to her parents' and a few friends' joy, enabling even easier communication and momentary updates when she can't just call them.
xxxxxxxCanine Accompanied tab Chances are, if you see Lilith, you need but only to look down and you'll spot the ever friendly golden-haired beauty that is her near constant companion. Raja has been her guide dog for the last two years, having gone through the training program just prior enrolling at Crystal Academy, and the two have since formed a rather strong love for their daily outings. Walks in the park are especially common, long strolls taking up the majority of their afternoons should Lilith not have other obligations to attend to first. She'll even bring a Frisbee or a baseball to throw from the comfort of a rock, bench, or just a section of soft grass, giving the dog more of a chance to stretch her legs.
tab Recently, Lilith's begun jogging and running short distances with Raja at her side, though it's mainly in large open areas as she finds them as a senshi. Least, till she feels more comfortable with sensing her environment as her new class is teaching her.
xxxxxxxPossibly Part Bat tabA hobby that has been sparked by her time as Sailor Metis. The loss of her magical sight each time she dehenshins is more than a little unsettling, no matter how used she is now to the impenetrable darkness. She always has to take a moment to readjust and regain her grasp on the world around her. It wasn't until she stumbled upon a news article from 2009 online that she began to realize there were other means to perceive the world than what she had already been doing when not as Metis. She made contact with the organization, World Access for the Blind, and was directed to Matthew Miller in Destiny City who could help train her in human echolocation. Every day for two hours she did the exercises and after a few weeks she began to notice... she could tell the difference between empty air and objects in front of her. A month later of daily practice and training, and she could tell the difference between a tree and pavement. Lil has continued to use this daily. While she still has a very long way to go before she has come anywhere close to mastering this ability, the more she uses it the more she doesn't care how she looks making those high pitched clicking sounds with her tongue - she feels amazing reading the world through the echoes that bounce back to her.
xxxxxxxThe Occult tab An old hobby she simply cannot let go, Lilith has a rather open mind to the potential existence of the supernatural. After all, just because you can't see it, doesn't mean it doesn't exist, right? She can't see the person standing in front of her, but she's certainly aware they exist as they prattle on about the day with her. The fact she's also a Senshi has done nothing to sway her faith in such unworldly phenomenon. If anything, it's helped to give her further hope. Everything from ghosts, to extraterrestrial life (okay, so this has basically been proven at this point, but still), to demons and benevolent spirits. While she's not the type to run around with an EMF detector or ogling over cold spots (less joined by others, then she'd be happy to indulge her geekier side), she takes a good bit of pride in the amount of research she's done on the various subjects. Lilith will also sheepishly admit to visiting cemeteries now and then as Metis to see if maybe she can "see" something. Not that her searches have turned anything up, but she's certainly given herself a few frights due to it all.
tabtab❥❥❥ ╎ᴘʜʏsɪᴄᴀʟ ᴅᴇᴄʀɪᴘᴛɪᴏɴ Hair ~ Light golden-brown, it falls to the middle of her back in light choppy waves, the ends curling. Her bangs have since grown out as well, the sections framing her face having been allowed to reach the length of the rest of her hair so that she can pull them back into ponytails or small buns while the rest of her hair is left down. She's become more fond of putting the longer bangs into two braids on each side - one to hang down before her shoulders, the other to be pulled back into a bun or pony. The section of her bangs not long enough to be part of this are left to fall as they may, though by the end of the day she's often brushed majority to the right (our left) side of her face, usually by motions to tuck it behind her ear.
Fashion ~ Layers, layers, and more layers, please~ The frillier, the lacier, and the lighter the material, the more Lil's going to love it. Unless the hot weather deems otherwise, she'll always be preferring to layer sleeveless tops with light jackets or shrugs, and layered skirts are always a wonderful plus. She still adores Victorian styled clothing, often due to the amount of layers involved in it, but isn't against going for a more modern look, either. Very loose fitting, layer on itself, styled sweaters and shirts have begun to find their way into her closet, among other things. Even some jeans are beginning to be seen here and there, though she still has a high preference for long skirts if she must cover up due to the weather. Heeled footwear is still her favorite, since along with the many small necklaces and bracelets she'll wear, she adores the sounds they make. The clinking of many little charms and trinkets, things she can fiddle with between her fingers, is an old favorite to be sure. Eyes and stars are still the predominant style.
Scars ~ Over the years, Lilith has gained a wide collection of scars. Most are in the form of small, many now faded, cuts and slashes from various smaller wounds. She does have a growing number of larger scars, however. (1) Left forearm, along the side of her arm, up past her elbow. (2) Abdomen, lower left side, gash. (3) Abdomen, right side at her ribs, thin slash from a sword.
xxxxxxxSensitive xxxxxxxHaving acute mental or emotional sensibility; aware of and responding to the feelings of others. Keen perception through the senses. No, she's not going to start crying just because you said 'boo,' or snapped at her about something. While she no longer has her sight to read facial expressions or see the world around her, Lilith has long since learned to use her other senses to help her keep close tabs on things instead. She possesses a rather sharp memory, and has become rather intuitive and observant when it comes to the world around her. From behavior and ticks she's experienced in other people she's conversed with for prolonged periods of time, or even just things she reads about in all of her psychology books, she's become rather good at reading people. A hitch in a voice could denote a lie, hearing them play with clothing or accessories easily reads as nervous - it's not a perfect science and she's a long way to go before she even comes close to being perfect in her little craft, but Lilith always does her best to remain as observant of the people, places, and things around her as she can. Never know when the information could come into use. Or keep her from tripping over something her cane or clicking might miss. xxxxxxxOptimistic xxxxxxxDisposed to take a favorable view of events or conditions and expect the most favorable outcome. Bad things happen in life. This is a fact not lost on Lilith since losing her sight to an accident as a child. But by all means, try getting her upset or depressed over the loss. She'll happily inform you she probably notices a lot more about the world without her sight than you see with yours. She always likes to see things on the sunny side of life. Even in the worst of situations, she'll always be the one to pipe up with a, "Well, it could be worse." Famous last words though they are, she means it. Sure there are times in life things are just too hard, and even Lilith will lose sight of the good for a little while, but once she's given even a few minutes to collect her thoughts and think about her situation, she'll be back to smiling and finding some sort of silver lining. No matter how small, if there's even a pin-hole of light at the end of the tunnel she will be pointing it out to try and bolster moral - hers, and that of any around her. In Lilith's mind, even when the hero dies killing the dragon in the story, the villagers still live on in a happy ending. There is always a happy ending. Good luck telling her otherwise! xxxxxxxCourteous xxxxxxxPolite, respectful, or considerate in manner. No longer the recluse she used to be, Lilith has still maintained her respectful nature. Everyone is greeted with warm smiles and a handshake, her words are carefully chosen and spoken, hands tucked in her lap when she sits - this girl has read more than her fair share of etiquette books, and she's taken life lessons from each. Though she does have her moments where she'll raise her voice, become openly flustered, and has been in a few scuffles she knows to be "unladylike," Lilith does--for the majority--try to apologize afterwards. She lives by the phrase, "honey attracts more flies than vinegar," and would much rather someone not believe there is bad blood between them. In her mind, being polite and respectful goes right along with staying so optimistic. If she keeps smiling, eventually the person huffing and puffing will start smiling, too. It just might take a few tries.
Flaws ::
xxxxxxxSuspicious xxxxxxxInclined to suspect, especially inclined to suspect evil; distrustful. The downside to being so observant and basing her perceived readings of someone on the habits of others or those described in books. If she feels someone's lying to her based on perceiving nervous ticks, or has heard things from others that state to watch out for a certain person, she's liable to trust her first judgment or rumors before trying to figure out further if they're right or not. Not that she won't give someone the chance, her opinion will simply be rather hard to change as she typically turns rather uneasy, if not all out frosty, towards the person in question. Do you play with your clothing too much, something she reads as a nervous habit? Clear your throat a lot, shift your weight often? Once she begins to perceive something off about someone, or encounters someone she's been warned against by someone else, her attitude towards them changes pretty rapidly. She'll speak with sharper words and tones, her body language would become stiff and on the defense. While she might not become hostile and openly lash out at someone... she certainly wouldn't be the most approachable of people. Lilith does still try to be as polite as she can, but even she's not perfect and can fall into snippy behavior when she believes someone is being dishonest or untrustworthy. Someone could certainly tell her she was in the wrong, but until the target of her distrust proves to her as much, she'll only turn up her nose and see no foul in her snap judgments. Better to be guarded than risk an attack, is her new motto. xxxxxxxUnyielding xxxxxxxNot compliant, submissive, or flexible. Lilith is a bookworm with a growing determination to prove she can be a fully independent woman regardless of her disability. This has caused her to form a bit of an ego, that she knows what's better for her in nearly any situation than someone else. Even if she's completely wrong. Once she's come to a decision or conclusion on something or someone, she's not one to change her opinion without a lot of fight on part of the other party. If you are someone she has already decided she can follow or trust, she'll be more willing to hear you out on matters where she doesn't agree with your point of view, but if she'll actually relent and follow despite her own opinions should still not be expected unless under dire circumstances. And even then, she'll be putting up a fight of some type to why her way is better, despite any logic you put to the contrary. Bring her enough proof though - or physical force, if you're so inclined - and she might at least grudgingly go along with it for the time being. You can fully expect for her to have a few things to say to you about it later, though. xxxxxxxResentful xxxxxxxFull of resentment: the feeling of displeasure or indignation at some act, remark, person, etc., regarded as causing injury or insult. It takes a good bit to get this girl upset, but once someone does, it takes even more for her to forget about it. Even if she tells herself she's over the insult, tells the person all is well and they're back to laughing and smiling over new subjects, the insulting act or words will still linger as a note in the back of her mind. Should she begin quarreling again with the person, they shouldn't be shocked if she brings up the old wound, just to throw their past transgression against her in their face. Once Lilith feels wronged, even when she knows the subject should be put behind her, she simply can't let it go. She might not be the type to seek revenge against the person who took the figurative last pudding cup from the cafe, but she'd certainly love to remind them of it when she takes the last one next time. Her resentment tends to stew beneath the surface for her for a long while, making her often falter in her otherwise polite behavior around the person. Should she be called out on it, she's more liable to go into a huff and give a few snide remarks before walking off, rather than doing the right thing and simply apologizing. Far as she's concerned, they should be the ones apologizing.
Posted: Sat Oct 10, 2009 8:25 pm
【𝔈𝔱𝔢𝔯𝔫𝔞𝔩 𝔖𝔞𝔦𝔩𝔬𝔯 𝔐𝔢𝔱𝔦𝔰】
xxxx⊂Spirit of the Night || A Seer⊃
⊰ Main Belt Asteroid .. ..? .. Core Remnant ⊱ ⊰ Third Eye .. Mind's Eye .. Mystical Concept ⊱ ⊰ Awakened October 2009 .. Super Senshi Achieved February 2011 .. Eternal Senshi Achieved March 23 2017 ⊱
tabtab❥❥❥ ╎ᴘᴏssᴇssɪᴏɴs ᴜᴘɢʀᴀᴅᴇᴅ ᴘʜᴏɴᴇ ↬ 〉 . . . ɴᴇᴠᴇᴛɪʀᴀ's ᴍᴀsᴋ ↬ 〉 Once, this ornate mask was worn by Nevetira, a Metidian priestess. Metis located this mask within the bottom-most chamber deep within the Conduit, and used the last remains of its power to try and restore Corrupt Super Victoria's memories that were tarnished by his corruption. It was not entirely successful. She has kept the mask as a memento of her past life. tabtabtabtab { She knelt in the center circle, hands on her knees, face covered in an ornate mask. No. It was more than a mask. Gold and glimmering, stones set within its features catching the light of the crystals and refracting them. Prisms. Tiny chains hung from the curving branches that held fast to her head. A solid plate that looked as if it might be bone plate grafted under the gold, covered across her forehead and where her eyes would be, stretching back in ornate swirls over her ears, blocking them. The gems, carved in spheres, diamonds, and ovals, formed symbols and features out of their glistening surfaces, accenting the designs carved into and embossed on the gold mask. Headdress. The seven largest stones were arranged to represent the senses that are used to comprehend the world around them, and those beyond--sound, touch, taste, smell, thought, and finally, the third eye. }
tabtab❥❥❥ ╎ʜɪsᴛᴏʀʏ tab . . .
tabtab❥❥❥ ╎ᴀʙɪʟɪᴛʏ ╎ ᴇɴᴇʀɢʏ ᴇᴄʜᴏʟᴏᴄᴀᴛɪᴏɴ tab Physically, Sailor Metis is blind. She is blind as Lilith, and transforming into a Senshi does nothing to change this. So how does she see, never mind fight? Easy - she sees via energy "echolocation." Just as a bat can take sounds and make a picture of the world around it, Metis can via the energy waves, or auras, of the living. Her "vision" has a limit, however. The waves start getting fainter, more difficult to make sense of, the further away an object is, until finally they vanish all together 100 meters away from Metis herself. Through this magical vision, she also sees colors - not accurate colors, mind you, but enough to tell what's what. The colors the wave manifest as, in her vision, are listed below along with their corresponding meanings.
tab Senshi are viewed as figures made of silver tendrils in copper human energy base tab Negaverse agents are viewed as figures made of dark brown-grey tendrils in copper human energy base tab Knights are viewed as as figures made of brown tendrils in copper human energy base tab Corrupt Senshi are viewed as as figures made of dark grey tendrils in copper human energy base tab Dark Mirror Senshi are viewed as as figures made of silver tendrils in copper human energy base, however the tendrils flicker and waver as if under static tab Youma are viewed as as figures made of dark brown-grey bases with tendrils of the original Copper human base energy tab The humanoid Parallel guardian (Zirconia being the only known example) was viewed as as a figure made of Silver tendrils in Yellow animal energy base, however the tendrils flicker and waver as if under static. tab Humanoid Order guardians are viewed as as figures made of Silver tendrils in Yellow animal energy base tab Humanoid Negaverse guardians are viewed as as figures made of Dark grey tendrils in Yellow animal energy base tab Youma Hybrids are viewed as as figures made of Dark brown-grey seeping into the Copper human energy base. Far more than the "taint" in Negaverse or Corrupt Senshi auras, but not to the consuming degree of Youma.
tab Humans are viewed as as figures made of Copper energy base, regardless of if the civilians can become powered individuals. No aspect of their powered life is shown in their civilian aura. tab Animals are viewed as as figures made of Yellow energy base, regardless of if the animal is actually a guardian in animal form. As other powered individuals cannot sense a powered energy signature from them in this state, Metis' vision does not show one. A guardian must speak to her before she knows what they are. tab Plants are viewed as as shapes made of Green energy base tab Cosmic/Magic/Fire are viewed as as shapes and blobs made of White, pure energy. Overrides other energies to the point too much in her face could blind Metis to other energies. Think of the effect as if someone shown a very, very bright light right in your eyes for a long period of time.
tabtab❥❥❥ ╎ᴇɴʜᴀɴᴄᴇᴍᴇɴᴛ - ᴄɪᴠɪʟɪᴀɴ ᴘᴀssɪᴠᴇ ᴍᴀɢɪᴄ ╎ ᴇɴᴇʀɢʏ ᴇᴄʜᴏʟᴏᴄᴀᴛɪᴏɴ tab After connecting further with her world, Metis has gained the ability to use her second sight as Lilith, a civilian. The magic works the exact same way as it does while she is as Metis, along with the same restrictions.
Metis Power, Make Up! Normal Senshi Attack: xxxxxxxxMind's Eye Flare! Placing her hand over the gem in her tiara, the sapphire begins to glow a multitude of different colors until condensing into a white orb. Flinging the energy orb at a single target, the orb shatters upon contact in a bright flash. The flash causes temporary blindness and disorientation, accompanied by a jumble of voices and fragmented images of events that have yet to pass (and might not ever), that last for 15 seconds. Metis may only use it three times per battle.
Metis Asteroid Power, Make Up! Super Senshi Attack: xxxxxxxxMind's Eye Vision! Hovering her fingers above the gem on her tiara as she speaks the name of her attack, orbs of various colors flow out of the sapphire, slowly condensing into one large white orb which she then flings at a single target. The orb remains whole as it flies out to the target, only to vanish into them without a trace. Once the orb vanishes into the target, they would find themselves bombarded with unintelligible, jumbled, and all around random visions of... the future? The visions in their head would come in such a rapid succession that focusing on the present could be quite difficult, though not necessarily impossible. The visions last for 20 seconds. Metis is only able to use her attack twice per battle.
Enhancement Second Spell Super Senshi Attack: xxxxxxxxFuture Sight Metis calls out the name of the attack, and… nothing happens. Someone might notice the air seems to… shimmer a little around her, or between her hands, like a brief mirage. For everyone around Metis, a sense of dread and anxiety begins to form, like they have the foresight to know something bad is about to happen. The sensation continuously rises for 10 seconds following her initial casting. At the 10 second mark, a foggy black orb materializes next to her target, slamming into them with enough force to knock them over, and with enough force that it may leave bruises and potentially cuts; the full severity is up to the player. If Metis is attacked by the target before the 10 seconds are up, the foggy orb appears early to slam into them. Metis is able to use this twice per battle.
Metis Eternal, Make Up! Eternal Senshi Attack: xxxVisions of War Speaking the name of the attack, Metis' hands began to glow with a soft teal light. Putting her thumbs and index fingers together, forming a triangle between her hands, she touches the target over their forehead--preferably, however due to her height the target can also be touched on their chest--leaving behind a mark that looks like a half-lidded eye, glowing teal. Even if the target has a mask, headdress, fur, or something else covering their forehead or chest, the magic will still take effect. For 40 seconds the target begins to see a vision of a possible future overlay on the world around them from their third eye, disorientating them and likely blurring the battle around them. However, it is not a completely opaque scene, so the target will still be capable of seeing danger around them, albeit possibly distracted by the contents of the vision. The exact contents of the vision are up to the player, and if the player wishes if the target is subjected to a possible future that contains injuries or some other cause of pain, the target would feel it as they experience the vision, however the pain would only be in their minds, and no lasting damage would occur. After the 40 seconds, the vision fades away. She is only capable of using this magic once per battle.
Symbol :: A half-lidded eye, with or without a star above it.
9 Metis (pronounced /ˈmiːtɨs/ mee-tiss, Greek: Μήτις) was the nineth asteroid discovered, by Andrew Graham on April 25th, 1848, at Markree Observatory in Ireland. It was his first and last asteroid discovery.
Hubble space telescope images and lightcurve analyses show Metis has an irregular elongated shape with one pointed and one broad end. A significant flat area is suggested via radar and lightcurves. Due to ambiguous data, the Metidian axial tilt is either 72° or 76°. The asteroid itself is composed of silicates and metallic nickle-iron. It has been estimated the surface is 30-40% metal-bearing olivine, and 60-70% Ni-Fe metal. An S-type asteroid, Metis has a density of about 6 g/cm³. It appears to be more dense than most other asteroids with a diameter close to 200km, possibly supporting the theory that Metis is the core remnant of a large evolved asteroid for which 90% of the original mass has been lost.
The Economic
Exports: xxxxxxxx Nickle-iron metals (crafted or unrefined), olivine (same), crops, cotton, livestock--"cattle" and "sheep" mostly. Dense, hardy trees either for relocation or wood. Divination services and related tools of craft.
Imports: xxxxxxxx Skilled workers--as laborers mainly, but also supervisors, and teachers; ivory, paint, silk, precious stones and rarer metals.
Currency: xxxxxxxxOn World Small coins that ranged in size, the cheapest being small nickel coins, the most valuable being one-inch diameter coins made of olivine. xxxxxxxxOff World
The Asteroid
The asteroid of Metis came with two very distinct regions. The large flat area was once an immense lush field dotted with dense forests and crisscrossed by rivers. The fertile plains stretched from the pointed tip to where the rolling hills pushed the land upward and outward. Where the flat region ends, the hills begin again along the sides, quickly turning into rocky mountains, though few boast intimidating heights. The mountainous region was what stood as the second most distinctive terrain of Metis, its grays, browns, and jagged appearance a sharp contrast to the greens, golds, and soft rolls of the plains and hills. Trees could be found in more dense forests of the hills, though the most impressive could be found closer to the base of the mountains before slowly beginning to dwindle down in size as the land got higher. Shrubs and prickly vegetation was all that could be found at the peaks of most of the mountains, and only one peak reached a high enough elevation to gain even a frosting of snow. Rivers ran from the few mountain springs hidden deep within the stone, feeding the plains and forests' need of water quite well. A few ponds and small lakes be found between the hills and dotting the plains.
Though most of the world still remains a mystery, here are a few known facts about asteroid Metis:
Remains of towns and cities can be found here and there within the plains, all constructed of stone and some wood. All keep a similar structure of a central building of worship--either incredibly high with a dome at the top with no visible windows, or one that stretches deep into the asteroid with again no windows to the surface--with the residences surrounding the circular grounds outside the central building. Buildings for crafters come next in the line, to keep the scents of some of some away from the homes, with the farm lands forming around the towns from there. Remains of stalls and smaller shops still can be found within the central square. Carts and wagons were the traveling norm, even in the mountains - lots of winding roads across all of Metis. The flat section was known as the Drift while the mountainous region was called the Divide. The highest mountain within the Divide was called the Conduit. Ancient tunnels--both natural and some suspected to be carved by the first settlers of the asteroid--lead into the deepest part of the asteroid, connecting to other tunnels that stretch out to the rest of the asteroid. The Conduit at its peak contains a domed room with seven small holes at specific points. At specific points of the year, certain stars or planets are visible from these holes, visible to any standing within the very center of the dome. The dome itself is carved intricately from over the centuries, though no lights are allowed within the structure. This same domed room is repeated at the bowls of the mountain, though no star points are carved in. Instead, large, precious stones are set into a mechanical structure near the ceiling to replicate the location of the planets and certain stars. The entire structure can be moved manually to properly depict celestial locations. The entire mountain is considered the most spiritually empowered point of the asteroid, thus its name. More underground tunnels stretch throughout the asteroid. Some of the most prominent inhabitants of this underworld were canine-esque creatures, similar in size to a fox, with dark fur and large paws. Though predominantly underground dwellers, they were known to travel above ground hunting game within the forests. Or livestock. Massive ears--almost twice the size of their own heads--moved independent from one another, perfectly tuned radars. Their immense paws were incredibly sensitive to temperature and terrain changes. It was also believed their nose was the strongest of any creature that resided upon the asteroid. Indeed, these senses were necessary--these creatures do not possess eyes, not even locations for them to have once existed within their skulls. Instead, large, flat bone was set over the top of their heads where their foreheads and eyes would have been. It was believed this enlarged area, one that is armored even, was where their most valuable sense organ was located: the source of their echolocation. These creatures made constant sounds, listening with their massive ears to pick up exactly where the echos return from. According to mythology of the asteroid, these creatures possessed a similar form of sight as their patron senshi, and it is believed the first Sailor Metis was gifted her ability from these original inhabitants of her world. While likely untrue, it was a popular story among the natives.
Landmarks: xxxxxxxxThe Drift - Description
xxxxxxxxThe Divide - Description
xxxxxxxxThe Conduit - Description
xxxxxxxxLocation - Description
The People
Everything here is WIP and a blurb for me to re-figure later on, ideas might not be kept and might be tossed out
Metidians had a genetic disease that, between their late-twenties and early-forties, depending on how "pure" their bloodlines were (ie not mixed with any people from other worlds) made them lose their eyesight. To varying degrees, but most could barely make out more than shapes/shadows, if even that. Entire aspects of culture formed systems built around this fact they will, as far as they're all concerned, all be blind later in life. Metidians, along with being very spiritual people, were farmers, business men and women, etc. But they also raised their children to do a lot of work early on in life, to prep for later on when they would be without their sight. They also had large families so younger members could assist older members. And they traded with other worlds. A ********. Because they needed workers for things that were too dangerous for the blind and the young, such as constructing buildings. Younger Meditians could be architects and planers, and so could the blind members due to their methods of writing and such. The people of Metis believed so strongly in the power of energy/life energy, partially because their "patron" acted, in their beliefs, as a conduit between the spiritual and the mortal.
Nevetira xxxxxxAll pale--from her wrinkled skin, to her snow-white hair--from barely any time out in the sun in many, many decades. Her eyes had long since gone silver in their age and had not glimpsed the living world since she was in her mid-teens. She lived mainly within the chateau at the base of the Conduit, and within the Conduit itself. One of the spiritual leaders of the Meditians, she was one of the key people involved in training the new Sailor Metis how to take over such a position herself. She often wore a mask that dulled her senses, allowing her to more easily meditate and focus on her third eye.
Luminista xxxxxx"Lumi," as she was affectionately called, was the previous identity of the girl known as Sailor Metis. She was born in the Drift, to a Meditian mother and unknown father.
Social Hierarchy: xxxxxxxx[TEXT]
Posted: Thu Oct 15, 2009 11:17 pm
Family
Name :: Victor Calchas Relationship :: Father / #1 bodyguard (when able) Opinion ::xxxMore known for his brief but flashy history as a pro-wrester, The Fury, Victor's background in the military helped gain him the connections to first establish Sentinel, the private security firm he now runs. He has since made quite the fortune from the company, the name Calchas rising up among the city's elite in wealth, and security. The loud, boisterous man has a persona as large as his figure, topping out at 6' with wide shoulders and dense muscles. He has long preferred the facade of a carefree persona outside of private business discussions, largely to help increase the chance of peoples' attention remaining focused on him, instead of his clients or family for their safety.
Name :: Rachel Calchas Relationship :: Mother / shopping buddy. Opinion ::xxxThe fact her mother's a vet might have something to do with Lil's early love with animals. -tbc-
Name :: Raja Relationship :: Guide dog extraordinaire and best canine companion <3 Opinion ::xxxLilith loves Raja. No questions asked, no doubts. With few constant human friends through her life, since receiving the trained canine she is rarely seen without the golden retriever. Without any hesitation, she's quick to say Raja is her best friend, and after seeing the two together, not many people stop to question this these days. Lilith tends to worry about her dear friend when a youma attacks, but thankfully nothing has happened yet to support her fears. The ever friendly and sweet-tempered canine has yet to meet someone she hasn't liked, and so long as no one is mean to her human, she tends to keep this happy streak going.
Name :: Cassie Finlay / Super Sailor Cassiopeia Relationship :: Younger Cousin Opinion ::xxxOnly recently did she become aware that her cousin was a senshi as well, and while she is happy that on one hand, Cassie can defend herself... sort of... she's distraught at the idea that more of her family is being dragged into the war. xxxxxxxxxx~Journal
Name :: Terry Hyatt / Erebus, Transcended Knight of Saturn Relationship :: Younger Cousin Opinion ::xxxRecently found out he was a knight--in their family?--and while she's curious to find out more about this aspect of his life, she's upset at the notion that more of their family are involved in the war. xxxxxxxxxx~Journal
Name :: Matt Hyatt / Siwa Oasis, Page of Uranus Relationship :: Younger Cousin Opinion ::xxxAs of yet, she is unaware he is a knight, but gets along well with her cousin. xxxxxxxxxx~Journal
The Asteroids Name :: Ellie Spectre / Eternal Sailor Iris {Princess} Relationship :: Friend, Previous Captain Opinion ::xxxPlease just be safe, it's what Lilith can only ask of the Captain of her previous team and one of her dearest friends. Though she aligns herself with no Royal in particular, there was a part of Metis that did--and still, in a way, does--view Princess Iris as her Princess. xxxxxxxxxx~Journal
Name :: ********* :: Previous Guardian, Friend Opinion ::xxxThere are few days that go by without Lil thinking fondly of the Manx guardian. She misses ********* fiercely, and can only pray she is safe somewhere. xxxxxxxxxx~Journal
Name :: Waylon Cartier / Super Sailor Parthanope Relationship :: Previous Teammate Opinion ::xxxRough as Iris, Metis never was very close with him but still keeps her fingers crossed his brash behavior didn't get him in over his head.... xxxxxxxxxx~Journal
Name :: Lydia Sfakianos / Super Sailor Irene Relationship :: Previous Teammate, Friend Opinion ::xxxA sweetheart and previous classmate, Lil hopes and prays that she is safe and sound somewhere. xxxxxxxxxx~Journal
Name :: Ridley Pendergast / Chibi Super Sailor Hygiea Relationship :: Previous Teammate Opinion ::xxxShe didn't know her well, but Metis can only hope Hygiea is alright. xxxxxxxxxx~Journal
Name :: Lissy Harrow / Chibi Sailor Egeria Relationship :: Previous Teammate Opinion ::xxxAnother of her team that Metis never fully got to know, she still hopes Egeria is alright. xxxxxxxxxx~Journal
Name :: Evelyn Caffrey / Super Sailor Eunomia Relationship :: Previous Teammate Opinion ::xxxShe seemed nice, and a great fighter, from what Metis knew of her. She has no idea what happened to her old teammate. xxxxxxxxxx~Journal
Name ::Feliks Vavrik / Corrupt Eternal Sailor Victoria Relationship :: Previous Teammate, Friend, Heartbreak Opinion ::xxxSomeday, I'll help you get back. She prays and she hopes, at least, that she can be capable of such a thing. xxxxxxxxxx~Journal
Name :: Anemone Gray / Eternal Sailor Psyche Relationship :: Previous Teammate Opinion ::xxxPreviously Corrupt Nickeline, Metis thought she seemed nice, if still a bit jarring that she was previously a corrupted senshi. She has no idea what happened to Psyche, and hopes she's still alright somewhere. xxxxxxxxxx~Journal
Name :: Thetis Relationship :: Previous Teammate Opinion ::xxxShe only met him a few times, but the small guardian seemed incredibly sweet. Though she's not sure why Pysche kept saying he was Iris' guardian... She hopes he's safe though. xxxxxxxxxx~Journal
The All-Seeing Eye Name ::Christabelle Calloway / Eternal Sailor Kallichore Relationship :: [In progress] Opinion ::xxx[In progress] xxxxxxxxxx~Journal
Order Name :: Astraea / Luna Relationship :: ...no clue. Leader? [UPDATE] MIA Opinion ::xxxThe feline to awaken Sailor Metis and provide her with some rather fascinating information to start her off. Still was confused as heck, but it was a start. Metis felt horrible for making her so nervous due to being blind, but hey! She has her magical sight now! No biggy... or at least it wasn't once she got used to it. After that, she didn't see hide or hair of the cat until the mass Senshi meeting, during which... Astraea got a name and appearance change? And was very rude and snappy... not the generally nice cat she encountered in the park at all. [UPDATE] MIA
Name :: Melody Klein / Super Sailor Lacrimosa Relationship :: Friend Opinion ::xxxA sweetheart that ********* and Metis encountered, and aided in awakening. They've recently reconnected, and Lil already counts her as a dear and close friend. xxxxxxxxxx~Journal
Name :: Khaleel Daher / Super Sailor Altais Relationship :: Dating Opinion ::xxxDon't steal my sunshine, is a lovely joke and double-edged sword all the same when it comes to Khal. They met on New Years Eve, 2018, and shared a little picnic and champagne-induced kiss. Amused--if embarrassed by her behavior--Lilith continued to meet with the energetic Khal and... she can't help it. He's sweet, charming, enthusiastic, gentle, warm... she's found herself relying on him more and more, recently. xxxxxxxxxx~Journal
Name :: Zachary Calloway / Eternal Sailor Themisto Relationship :: Friend Opinion ::xxxA nice guy who is also dating Mellody. He seems sweet to her thus far, and Lil appreciates the fact he's also apart of this insane double-life... xxxxxxxxxx~Journal
Name ::Azzo Crowley / Niflhel, Knight of Saturn Relationship :: Friend Opinion ::xxxThough she's not seen him in a while, she views the knight fondly after knowing him for a number of years now, on and off. xxxxxxxxxx~Journal
Name ::Aurora Namid / Eternal Sailor Polaris {Princess} Relationship :: Acquaintance Opinion ::xxxAware of only the senshi from small meetings and battles, she still has a high opinion of Polaris xxxxxxxxxx~Journal
Name :: Snowball Relationship :: Acquaintance Opinion ::xxxA sweet guardian who aided her and upgraded her to Eternal. xxxxxxxxxx~Journal
Name ::Fritz St. James / Celsus, Transcended Knight of Chronos Relationship :: Acquaintance Opinion ::xxxFriendly and kind, a definite gentleman. xxxxxxxxxx~Journal
Name ::Michael Lyons-Gallo / Sessrumnir, Knight of Jupiter Relationship :: Acquaintance Opinion ::xxxVary up-and-down in terms of friendliness on both parts--ok Metis will admit she started it on the wrong foot...--but Metis views the knight in a largely positive light. xxxxxxxxxx~Journal
Name ::Xanthus Goldman / Kairatos, Knight of Mars Relationship :: Acquaintance Opinion ::xxxMet him briefly and was intrigued to learn he was another purification, this time from being a Negaverse agent xxxxxxxxxx~Journal
Chaos Name ::Chase Black / General Labyrinthite Relationship :: Enemy... Opinion ::xxxOnce upon a time, he was a Lieutenant Iris warned Metis to watch out for. Over the years, he became a bigger and bigger player--the Bogeyman, the Reaper--that tormented the Asteroids. Though Metis encountered him only briefly herself in her early years, she has now begun to see the deraigned General a bit more frequently since his violent return from whatever hell he'd vanished to. He's given her a few scars now, and Metis won't deny the interest in returning the favour. xxxxxxxxxx~Journal
Name :: Queen Laurelite Relationship :: Enemy, Hated Opinion ::xxxThe new Queen of the Negaverse, it seems. Promoted Victoria to a Corrupt Eternal, much to Metis' dismay. xxxxxxxxxx~Journal
Name ::Magiore Carpenter / General Aurostibite Relationship :: Enemy Opinion ::xxxBrief encounters have definitely established him and his youma as enemies. xxxxxxxxxx~Journal
Name ::Damian Howe / General Ashanite Relationship :: Enemy, Hated Opinion ::xxxSuper Sailor Victoria called him Plou--Ploutonion of Saturn--and claimed he was a forced corrupt that wanted to purify. Metis thought Victoria was safe. She didn't pay as much attention as she should have. Due to this "Plou," her friend and teammate was corrupted. She met him, briefly, during one of her meetings with Vic to try and (unsuccessfully) restore his memories. She will be paying the General back for his disgusting tricks. xxxxxxxxxx~Journal
Civilians Name :: Barney Relationship :: Friend, Deceased Opinion ::xxxA rather powerful young man she had met in the library one day. He had gone berserk in his seat next to her when she sneezed, and Lilith, thinking it was a youma attacking, changed into Metis to see what was going on... only to see a very large and very upset Barney standing with her broken cane in his hands. She turned back and was able to help get him out of excessive trouble with the librarian, and the two were able to chat and get to know one another. She rather enjoyed her time with him, and had wanted to make plans to see him again... however, she later received news Barney had been killed in a fire in Barren Pines, a school she'd never heard of until then, and had never heard about since... the whole thing still doesn't sit well with her, not that she has anything she can do about it for now.
Dreams of the Future [x2 Solo] Thankful [Prompt response] [Backdated Space Solo] Visions We Shared { Frustrated with herself, she goes to her asteroid and ends up discovering she wasn't so different from her people... backdate before Jan 20, 2016 } [Trading one battle for 3 solos] [Trading one battle for 3 solos] [Trading one battle for 3 solos]
Sailor Moon is copyrighted to Naoko Takeuchi. In the Name of the Moon belongs to Natsube and rosemilk.. Lilith Calchas / Sailor Metis' concept and character belongs to Kailey Koreco/Kaefaux.
Posted: Mon Mar 08, 2010 9:57 pm
Personal Experience. Early October. Destiny City. En route to Crystal Academy.
Somewhere out there, was a city.
Somewhere out there, were people. Of all different sizes, all different shapes, all different colors. Buildings that put the trees to shame in their size and majesty, architecture to astound and mystify you. Somewhere.
All Lilith Calchas could see of it all was nothing but darkness. Never ending, eternal, black.
And had been this way since she was four. Not that she could clearly remember the incident that rendered her pretty green eyes useless and dead, though her memories of vivid colors in the world around her before it all happened were clear enough. She didn't care what anyone said - you do remember the last time you ever saw the golden rays of the sun, the startling green of the grass and leaves on the trees, the blue of the ocean and sky and ponds... even the near black-blue of the night sky dotted with stars was a galaxy of differences from what she was "gifted" with now.
"I know it's going to be different, but don't worry sweetie! The principle assured us you'd be able to keep Raja with you, and their facilities are some of the best in the country-!"
Her mother's light and energetic voice drifted through the brunette's mind like a sun beam, making her turn her head away from where her hand was resting on the window and instead focus on the front passenger seat before her. "So Raja can stay in the dorm?" She grinned at the concept, listening to her golden retriever move around in her nestled position in the cavernous trunk behind the back seats. Lilith's free hand crept over the top of the soft leather and slipped down to curl up within the warm fur. The smile grew as she heard the fluffy tail thump against the course carpet.
"That's right," announced her father proudly, the large man's booming voice gentle to her ears. The big scary bear that's just a teddy bear to her. Yeah, it's an old, cheesy cliche... but hey, it fit. "You get the room to yourselves for now, too." Her smile neither grew nor drooped to this news - a lack of roommate just might have been what allowed her canine companion to stay in the room with her, though it meant one less chance to talk to someone new. Pros and cons - she'd live. Besides, it didn't mean she couldn't get a roommate later on...
The sound of the car speeding through the streets slowed, and she leaned forward to rest her chin on the shoulder of her mother's seat, head partially centered between her parents. "Are we almost there?"
Her mother's perfume wafted through the air, some of the loose locks brushing against Lilith's cheek as the woman turned her head. "Not yet. Traffic's so annoying in the city. Good thing you and Raja walk everywhere~" she added with a flurry of giggles. Empty green eyes rolled, as she was sure her father's hazel were doing as well. Because a blind girl could do much more than walk for immediate transportation. But her mom did have a point. Girl and canine enjoyed some nice health benefits from walking daily, and a city with all it's lights and sidewalks (and parks!) only aided them in their routine.
"Don't worry, Lil. Everything will be great once you two get settled into Crystal." She nodded, slowly leaning back to stare uselessly out where the window was supposed to be. To confirm this, she pressed her hand against the cold surface, listening to the car as it drove past other vehicles, the honks and sirens that made up the usual sound pollution of a city.
A city... that was somewhere out there. A city with a school, she'd now call "home."
Her stomach did an uncomfortable roll... and Lilith suddenly wished she could have just stayed at her real home. Something about this city, she felt, would mean for a rather big change in her life.
Personal Experience. Early October. Crystal Academy, Lilith's dorm room.
"A... senshi."
The word was weird. Foreign. Almost as weird as seeing the world through her mind in colors she never thought to associate with it - except green for the plants. That one she got. Blue for the clean water worked too, but everything else...
Why were people copper? What made animals yellow? Why had Astraea been a little more sparkly once she'd turned into a feline? Obviously had to do with the fact she was oh, I don't know, magical, but still. Why sparkles? Why not just a different color? And why didn't the ground or rocks or anything give off waves? No, she had to use other waves bouncing around to tell where the the ground was if she decided she didn't trust her feet in that moment. Even just walking around was proving scary. Not that she'd dare say that to Astraea... poor girl seemed enough of a wreck as it was. So what if she was blind? Apparently in magical worlds, that just didn't mean squat any more because you get to see again anyways.
Which was weird. And her balance felt way off with this new sight...
Which was why Lilith- No, wait, Metis (the second time she was out and about that day) was walking carefully around, arms outstretched to wobble around her as she felt around and tried to keep her balance. She wasn't used to seeing anything when she walked. She focused on the placement of her feet, the sway of her body, the level of the ground and the basic knowledge that she was standing upright. Her cane was her eyes for obstacles, her cane and Raja. The golden retriever was curled up in a ball on her bed beside the girl's, and through the yellow aura Metis could make out the figure, the eyes watching her with concern. Sight made it redundant - she didn't need this weird vision to sense her dog's tense body, her training telling her to rush to her mistress' aid should she fall or require a lead back to her chair or bed. But she could see. Yellow, copper, and green waves from the tree outside her window, all bounced around the room and outlined the objects within it pretty well for her to maneuver around with few difficulties.
Depth perception was a weird thing to have back, too. Not to say she couldn't have a sense of how far she was from a step (once she knew where the step was with her cane), but visual was so much more different than.... non.... visual depth perception... Ugh!
Metis gave a large heave of a sigh, flopping down onto the ground in a relaxing kneeling position. Her skirts fluttered around her, and for a moment, she simply sat in silence, admiring them, playing with them, letting her mind just wander as it wished. It was easier to even do that without the distraction of sight.
It... was nice though to see the lace instead of just feeling it. It was nice to see Raja instead of just having to imagine what her dear friend looked like. She still couldn't see herself in the mirror, seems waves might be able to bounce off mirrors, but without any life in them, she wasn't going to see anything out of their surfaces. Still though.
She.... she could see.
Metis was suddenly grateful this uniform didn't come with makeup as she began to cry, turning her head this way and that to take in the vision of her room again. Her belongings described for her as she ran her hands over them, piecing their shape together bit by bit and slapping on colors the best she could according to what her friends or family told her about them. The shape of her room, the height of the ceiling, the window...
Tears still dribbling down her cheek, she got up, moving to the window where the cool night air could envelop her as she looked into the green aura. A tree. She remembered what they looked like in the eyes of a child, but now she could see the (glowing, energy filled) leaves, the life force of the mighty being through its branches and trunk, down to the ground where countless blades of grass threw out their own auras and color. It was night time according to her clock (which spoke to her whenever she hit the right button, she still couldn't see the digital numbers on it's face), but the world... the world outside her window was far from dark.
The city was a glow. A glow with the auras and energy of life. Good lives, bad lives - good people, bad people - people trying to make their way in the world, people just going with the flow without a care - so many people. "And some in the Negaverse," she mumbled to herself, wondering yet again how someone could take the life - no, sorry, the soul of someone else. That's what starseeds are, right? That was what Astraea had called them? And she had to stop them from doing it. Made sense. She knew how to use her power now, that neat little sphere of light that she apparently would throw at her opponents. She'd blind them, apparently. Would she hurt them? If not... how would she stop them?
"I'll... cross that bridge when I get to it," she promised herself simply. Her head hurt. Not from so much information, so much to think about, just... well, maybe it was. Maybe it was just too much, too fast, and her head was already too full with showing her the world around her through colored waves. Slowly Metis curled up into the soft chair stationed at the window, arms folded on the sill to nest her head on as she continued to watch the glowing city. She was starting to get used to this vision again, like how she'd done at the park.
Which meant she wasn't going to like it when she was back to her usual darkness. Ugh. Her only prayer for the moment was for the shift back and forward to start getting easier the more she did it.
Which reminded her... she was going to need to take those new jumping skills for a test drive sometime soon to get used to all that, too... Huh.
Should be fun.
Posted: Thu Jan 12, 2017 1:31 pm
Prompt Response Dream of a future . . . Word Count: 2,473 Solo x2 May 27, 2014
"Twenty-five is far too young!"
"Is that what grandma told you when dad asked to marry you?"
"That was completely different, totally different era--wait why are we on the subject of marriage? Lilith?"
Rachael Calchas' breezy voice could hold a sharp tone far stronger than it should have been able to, but her daughter laughed without restraint to the accusation thrown across the cafe table. The New York sun beat down on Lilith where she sat, reclined into the metal patio chair. The cooler air caused by the shade of the umbrella set in the center of the table settled over her hands and forearms where they rested, fingers curled carefully around the large cup containing the iced hazelnut and caramel coffee. Beads of condensation rolled around her fingertips, and every now and then she'd roll a digit or two through the liquid. "I'll be twenty-six in five, six months," she stated easily, eyelids drooping sleepily as she enjoyed the warmth. The sounds of the city vibrated around her, lighting up her senses. The tables and chairs rattled as a bus rumbled past. Cabs honked and slowed and sped--she'd been in enough to know how deftly the drivers handled the gridlock. People walked. People talked. Jogged. Ran. Shouted into phones or to the cabbies. The city never slept. It was as honest a statement as any. A city of constant energy, constant movement and life. It was vivacious and dreamy. It lured her into the day as often as it did the night. It was a city that breathed with the people, moved with the cars, echoed with the sound of running water in the drain pipes and thunder of the subway beneath feet. It was a city she could hear and picture so beautifully.
"Lilith..."
Manicured nails lifted from the icy cup to wave lightly in the air between her and her mother. "No, mom, I'm not getting married. Not unless there's something someone hasn't told me." With the snort her mother gave, Lilith could just picture how her nose and lips scrunched up daintily as they'd always done. It was an image she never forgot from her childhood. The priceless expression of her mother dismissing some claim with her own beliefs. Lilith rose a dark brow, smiling. "No one's told you anything, have they?"
The light linen dress pants Rachel wore ruffled slightly as she recrossed her legs, her heeled sandals clicking lightly against the pavement of the patio. "No. Though I did see the posts on Twitter these last couple days--and nights." The raised inflection on those last two words spoke volumes. Lilith made a mental note to check her barely used feed later, and address whatever it was she found after. Though the thought made her eyes narrow ever so slightly. Her phone got all the notices from Facebook. Maybe there was a reason these were popping up on Twitter instead? Hm.
"You'd know more about it than I would," was all she said at first, voice far too cheery and bright for the potential turn of the topic. But then, Lilith had never been very forthcoming about her romantic life with her parents. With her mother being as curious as she was, and her father all but being a walking embodiment of the private security teams he ran in his company... Well. There were a multitude of reasons for the only daughter to keep names and pictures off the table until she had any idea how long the other participant planned on keeping their cards in this particular game. "I've had my nose stuck in various books for the last few weeks."
The lure back to the previous topic was far too obvious. Lilith knew it, but it worked as Rachel gave a soft sigh of reluctant acceptance. If she wanted more immediate updates on her daughter's love life, she was just going to keep having to follow Twitter. Her mother's hands tapped against the reinforced glass of the table, her wedding ring and sturdy watch clinking all the louder against it. Lilith was willing to bet she had her hands pressed against the table, the stance she took when about to address some dire topic that required her full attention. Lilith herself took another sip of her coffee. She knew where this was going. "I take it then you've weighed your options? You've been running around so much, going to all these different interviews and tours--without your father or I, or even Gerard." The mention of the part bodyguard, part chauffeur, all parent-paid handler made the hairs on the back of Lilith's neck stand on end. Gerard himself was nice--he'd always been nothing less than a gentleman, and over the last few years she'd even begun to view the older man as an uncle-figure of sorts. That he used to work with her father helped, she supposed. But for her mother to rely on him to keep tabs on her was the part that grated on her nerves. "I'm just not convinced this is the right way to go. Out of all your options, this just seems..."
"Like the acts of a heretic?"
She could almost feel the paint-peeling glare her mother must have shot her at the too-chipper offer. "It's been a long time since I've set foot in a church, Lilith you know that. It's been even longer since I've followed the letter of the Lord's laws. Or at least the Irish Catholic version." Lilith decided not to mention the awkwardness of some of her peers in various religious classes taking special notice of her name her mother had chosen. "I'm just not convinced there's a career in this for you, baby. A hobby? Yes, of course, always. But a career..."
"If a priest can do it--"
"Do not even finish that sentence."
Lilith lifted a hand in silent surrender, but the smile remained. This was a typical argument point for her and her parents. Which had, over the years, turned into much of a joke for her. They didn't see how her interests could spread into a full-time career. But then, they hadn't been running around in a magical uniform with magical sight for years.
It hadn't been that long since she'd last transformed. Every now and then she did it, all to see the world through that vision. Seeing New York City that way was intense. She wasn't as brave as she was in Destiny City when it came to the rooftops, not as sure of her footing in the relatively new location. But with so many people, so much life... it'd seemed at times like the whole city was lit for her. It was a piece she couldn't leave behind. Though it'd been far, far longer since she'd last gone to the asteroid, stood at the ruins and saw and remembered. But they were sensations that lingered. Held her close, embraced her each time her head would tilt towards the sky. Metis was not gone. Though she knew many of her friends had put away the pens and the cell phones remained silent in subspace, Lilith didn't want to let it go.
It was a world only she got to see. The idea of giving that up for good... felt almost tragic.
There were no more patrols. No more hunting youma. No more waiting to see what new horror came around the corner. There was simply enjoying the sights, the sounds, the thrills. Lax and wonderful. Many nights were spent listening to her digital readers tell her about foreign lands, awe inspiring cities, ancient forests, breath taking mountains--and she'd sit there and wonder what they would look like to Metis. That her "someday travels" funds were slowly growing in their separate account was something she clung to. Kept her fingers crossed over.
For now though, she had more pressing matters to deal with. Her lips parted on one part sigh, one part smile. "Sorry." She'd been apologizing for years. Things she could never really explain, excuses that were half-baked and so full of hole she knew her parents had to suspect something. She'd never told them. Not flat-out. Barely hinted. But every now and then, she'd wondered. Always, Lilith was trying to reassure them she knew what she was doing. Had at least a concept of where she was going in life. Now was no different. She just had the rest of her life hanging in the prospective balance, not the outcome of physical battles or innocent lives. Sometimes she wondered which was more intimidating. "I wanted to talk to you about it all for a reason, mom. Yes, I have been putting a lot of thought into my options, and have come to a decision." She took a breath, steadying herself for this one. Her mother probably wouldn't enjoy it. But it was her life. Rachel, to her credit, didn't fidget, didn't tap the glass. She sat still, waiting. Waiting. Lilith knew the sort of heavy self-control her mother was having to enforce on herself at that moment for this feat. "I've been accepted into both the Religious Studies program to get my master's, and.. accepted to start my bachelor's in Forensic Psychology. I've already begun the process to start both."
The news sat heavy in the air for a while. Lilith could hear her mother's breaths, steady and controlled. Then let out in a sigh. Relief. It was the religious studies they'd been so concerned about, knowing where she would be turning her attention mainly since acquiring her bachelor degrees for both it and folklore back in DCU. They'd supported her going for English Lit and Psychology, but as time passed she'd become far too disinterested in the work, the content. The switch was necessary. Her parents just didn't understand the goals. They didn't see how it would lead to a career--something Lilith had found fascinating, trying to explain time and time again how her major could lead to a variety of positions when she applied herself to getting them. English Lit was something they understood. Psychology was something they understood the need for and practical use. Forensic Psychology was right back along those lines. "That... sounds like an interesting course load. Why Forensic?"
Lilith gave a small shrug, smiling across the table to her mother. Ignoring the first part to focus on the second. It was something she knew to expect with her mother at times as she processed things. "I grew up in Destiny City," she stated with a small laugh, as if that should explain everything. But how her mother shifted, legs recrossing, she was willing to bet it did. "I want to have a better idea of why some people turn to... extreme measures, commit crimes. Hurt other people. It's a concept and a place I can't... fathom." Not to the extremes some took it, anyways. Yet a part of her wanted to understand her own mindset. In some of those moments... she'd felt a very, very different woman standing in her skin than the Lilith Calchas she'd known all those years prior. Had it been the psychological effect of the war itself? Or had she been behind some of it? They were questions that resurfaced here and there. Among many, many more.
"There's a lot of evil in the world, baby. Sometimes... there's just no explaining it."
Lilith reached forward, her hand leaving the icy cup to rest, cold and damp, against one of her mother's. Rachel hadn't moved her hands from where they'd first landed against the table, and Lilith ran her fingertips gently across the creased and veined hand, across the wedding band always so warm. A hand warm and gentle, calloused by years of work, scarred by years of working with animals. Warmth she'd often feared would be lost to the icy terror she'd felt when she'd been younger. Fighting in a war she'd never fully comprehended, for goals and meanings she still at times couldn't grasp--or felt the need to question entirely. Yet she'd been afraid of that light and warmth being extinguished.
Once, she'd stood before her mother and father as Metis. Just once. She'd cried, standing there in a guise they couldn't recognize. The people she loved, hadn't seen in years--never would again, not with her own eyes. They'd stood there, formed of the copper energy that formed all living human bodies. It was a picture she would never forget, held onto as tight as she held onto her parents themselves. Rachel had said a very similar thing then, on the topic of evil.
Lilith smiled. Pale eyes, unfocused and unseeing, were lifted to where the source of her mother's voice came from. "I can't believe that. For everything I've seen, for everything I've done in that grand, horrible, and living city... I just cannot accept an answer like that.
"Because to explain it is a step towards stopping it. It's a way to end the war."
For a moment, Rachael said nothing. For a moment, Lilith wondered if her mother had forgotten. Her head tilted a little, and she began to sit back. Pull back. Till her mother's other hand moved over hers, pinning it in place. Squeezed. Squeezed as hard as Lilith squeezed her eyes shut. Squeezed as hard as Lilith clutched to her mother's hand in return. She hadn't forgotten, what that soldier in white and teal and black had said. Neither said anything further as they sat there at the cafe, the life of the city bursting around them, overflowing and vibrant. It was a world away, that city. That city. The city she would return to, once she'd gotten her degrees. The city that was still her home, the place some of the people she loved most still lived. It was a place her parents would still never return to. For Lilith...
At her side, her phone buzzed, and Lilith paused. As she reached for it, another buzz came through--a second message. "Message from..." The digital voice that read out her messages into the earbud nested in place repeated the recording she'd made for that person's entry into her contact lists, and her eyes slid close again as a smile spread across her lips. New York City was a magnificent city, no questions there. It was vibrant, it was a league all it's own. Yet her heart lingered in that city torn apart by war and chaos and order that grasped at straws. Her heart--her soul--was tied to others. A ring that never ended, circling the system, the belt for eons. Centuries. Lifetimes, maybe.
She didn't need olivine coins or readers or pens to know those ties would not fade. Time had no flame or chill capable of breaking those binds.
