"At first when you enter to Temple of Antari you might think the Temple was abandoned and in neglect, but then again that just means you do not know who this goddess is and what she values. The Goddess Antari is the Goddess of Darkness and Dark Magic, a former Phoenix Queen and Lady of great power. It is said that those who have an affinity for darkness and the Dark arts are Favored by this goddess...
This temple is very difficult to clean due to the fact that no light is aloud in the darkness, it is considered an offence to bring a torch or flame into the sanctuary of Antari, and any acolyte who does so could end up facing the justice of Maude.
Antari as the goddess of Darkness is a fickle goddess and if you desire to please her you should bring her a gift... though its not a regular gift like a flower or some type of jewel. If you desire you please Antari and gain her favor you must entertain her. She is particularly fond of magic tricks and Dance..."
Posted: Mon Nov 07, 2016 6:00 pm
“I sold my soul And they told MeI was Holy."
━━━━━━━━━━━
☥ I don't have wings ☥
Her long fingers gripped the quill in a steady hold, gently dipping it in a small pot of ink before gliding the tip across her parchment to form words. Her sleek veil was set aside, draped across the back of a wooden chair. She was writing a letter to her beloved. King Herod. She hoped that he would enjoy reading it, as letters had been their only way of speaking for a few weeks now. Since his last visit. But she had occasionally kept an eye on him with her crows. She had sent Erin (her least temperamental crow companion) to follow after Herod and to keep her updated on his status. She couldn't wait to see him again. Antari found herself smiling in the darkness, a light feeling incasing her at the thought of her king.
"Dearest Herod,
It has been some time since your last letter, and I worry for you. I understand that as king you are busy, and I appreciate the time you take to write to me. Just promise me that you are looking after yourself. I would not be able to stand it if you fell ill while I was away.
Time here in the Maude has been rather peaceful lately, and I look forward to your next visit. I wasn't able to tell you last time you came to see me, but my sister, Alya has passed. If I remember correctly, she promised to marry you one day after meeting you at the winter ball. She was quite taken with you. As am I. I hope we can meet again soon.
Yours sincerely, Antari"
The priestess lowered the quill and gently wiped her eyes on the sleeve of her dress. She missed both of them so much. Alya and Herod. Without either of them as company, she grew lonely. Even the godess, her namesake, wasn't able to fill the void that was left in her chest each time Herod left her. Each time she reminiced about Alya. Sometimes the gods could be cruel. Antari called one of her feathered companions to her and secured the letter to its leg. She watched as it took off, delivering her letter to the man that had claimed her heart.
☥ So flying with me won't be easy ☥
━━━━━━━━━━━
“But it's the Devil That's tryingto hold Me."
❣ Location → Temple of Antari ❣ Company → Myself, My crows ❣ Mood → Lonely, longing
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Posted: Mon Nov 14, 2016 1:15 pm
▁ ▂ ▃ ▄ ▅ ▆ ▇ Ophelia Estelle QuatrezQueen of Ethe ❛It is a curious thing, the death of a loved one. We all know that our time in this world is limited, and that eventually all of us will end up underneath some sheet, never to wake up. And yet it is always a surprise when it happens to someone we know. It is like walking up the stairs to your bedroom in the dark, and thinking there is one more stair than there is. Your foot falls down, through the air, and there is a sickly moment of dark surprise as you try and readjust the way you thought of things.❜ ▇ ▇▇ ▇▇▇ ▇▇▇▇ ▇▇▇▇▇ ▇▇▇▇▇▇ ▇▇▇▇▇▇▇
I'm feeling:Nervous, Confused | I'm with:Kaede Lorent | I have:$700EC
He cannot harm the people. That was reassuring to hear. Ophelia tucked a stray silver lock behind her ear as she felt an invisible smile tugging upon the corner of her lips. Maybe just tonight, she'll be selfish for once, she'll be selfish for herself, for her own good. However, how was she going to feign sickness? She had been feeling unwell recently, yes, but the queen was a horrible liar. She had always been brutally honest and it wouldn't be hard to see through her lies at all. The cloak was simple, dull, in which she would be easily passed off as a peasant wandering the temples. If only she could keep her eyes well hidden out of sight. Her mismatched eyes was her trademark, what symbolizes her. Her eyes was what gave her identity away. Ophelia pulled the hood up and over her head, taking one last glance at him before she stepped out of entrance. The cold air blew, and she'd enjoy the feeling of the cold breeze against her skin. She'd embrace what felt like.. freedom.
Her eyes followed him when he'd let go of her hand, and she'd finally smile, one genuinely from the depths of her heart. "Thank you for staying.. for accompanying me through this past month. You're very kind, Kaede. So very, very kind." she backed away, lowered her head and gave him a curtsy. Is she really allowed to spread her wings tonight? Is she really allowed to spread her wings like she did before? Feel the wind that seeped through her feathers? She'd feel hesitant, and she'd nearly change her mind about leaving, until she saw his transformation before her eyes. His luscious white feathers, his golden streaks that glowed beneath the pale moonlight. He looked more majestic than anything she had ever seen, and she could feel the excitement build up within her, the thrill she hasn't been able to feel in such a long while. Her hands reached out, gently tracing the scar across his torso. What happened? She wouldn't ask, fearing it was something too personal to answer. She stepped away, watching him soar into the night sky. She'd take a deep breath, feel the passion burning within her. Once she brought herself to an empty field, she'd feel her arms turn into luscious golden wings with a mixture of amber. She'd take flight, her body taking on the form of a phoenix completely. Her tails would spread, the patterns on the ends like eyes gazing down upon her kingdom. The wind felt so cooling against her skin, and she felt so comfortable. She'd let out the cry of a phoenix, and she'd bring herself higher into the sky, leaving her trail behind her.
If only this moment would last forever.. how nice that would be.
---------------------------------
She'd land her feet in front of the Maude, stopping in front of the temple. They weren't allowed to bring any source of light within. Her abilities were light based, so why did she come here? She enjoyed the darkness, perhaps. "Do you like the dark, Kaede? I like being in the dark sometimes.. it calms my nerves.. Am I really allowed to do what I want for today..?" she murmured as she removed the hood from her head, her long legs carrying her into the temple, where she wouldn't be able to see her surroundings at all, and the statue would reveal itself not too far from where she stood, the soft moonlight illuminating the goddess Antari. "I feel so free.. so-.. like I'm released from my cage. Am I doing the right thing? Then.. why do I feel so scared?" she turned around, locking her gaze onto his eyes with her heterochromias that would inevitably glow within the dark. What did they say about pleasing this goddess? Magic tricks and dances? She remembered dancing within her castle walls once. She remembered dancing with her four year old daughter, and their cheerful laughter would echo throughout the hallway. Ophelia's face fell, but her smile would return to her face eventually. Her captain said that everything was going to be alright, right? That's true, right? She held out her hand, as if waiting for him to take it within his. "Dance." she stated, "Will you.. dance with me?"
Out.Of.Crocodiles: It's alright! I understand how hectic projects can become- //in the middle of one myself orz//
poor Kaede, no worries, Ophelia will join him soon- some time in the future- where she'd probably avoid him when she feels something for him orz
Axuqa
Posted: Mon Nov 14, 2016 9:40 pm
xxxk a e d e xxxxxx l o r e n t
✧Location | Temple of Antari xx✧ Company | Opheliaxx✧Mood | Unsurexx✧ Money | $245 EC
Kaede felt a moment of something so pure, so fragile that he almost wanted to catch it in his hands and stare into it like the first drop of rain from the sky or catching moonlight in his hand. Her eyes glimmered in the moonlight, shining with innocence and excitement. When he traced her fingers over the scar, Kaede bowed his head slightly. It wasn't exactly a secret, but it was also a story that could wait. As he took flight and waited, he was then surprised as Ophelia's phoenix form took flight. With her cry, Kaede felt a great warmth in his heart. A cry of freedom and joy. Kaede then followed her, hopeful for the future despite how bleak it really was.
When Kaede landed, he attempted his utmost to see through the darkness. It's not that Kaede disliked the Temple of Antari; Simply, Kaede was unsure how to respect the temple. The Goddess Antari was the figurehead of dark magics and secrets- something that Kaede did not trust thanks to his parents' ideologies. "I do not mind the dark much." he replied, though, it was obvious that Kaede would slightly more monotone than usual. This place just made him uneasy because Kaede had to rely moreso on his hearing than sight. "And you are. Anything you wish, except for law-breaking." he quipped, following her and gazing at the Goddess's statue.
He did not answer her questions at first, a small frown across his face. Kaede didn't know if they were doing the right thing. Deep down, Kaede was fearful too. He had overstepped his boundaries, and he was putting Ophelia and the kingdom at risk? And why? Because he wanted to grant Ophelia just a moment of her own happiness and safety, unchained from her duty for at least twelve hours. When they locked gazes, Kaede stepped forward. "I cannot say, but know that I will stand beside you no matter what." he assured her. When her face fell and then returned to a smile, Kaede stumbled slightly. "Here? But we do not even have any music?" he tried to decline, but he couldn't refuse her request.
He sighed, but a small smile replaced his frown. Kaede stepped forward, glancing at the statue of the Goddess as if seeking any aid in his little predicament. "I do not know much about dancing." he mumbled, but took her hand all the same hesitantly, the other hand held behind his back. He brought her to the center of the area with most space and then turned to face her. What dance was she thinking about? He only learned basic formal training by Sir Soren in case of balls and other formal events. But he was still fairly unprepared as a dancer.
✧║ ▌███████████████████ ▌║✧
✧OOC Sneaky sneaky sneaksxxxxxxxxx
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Posted: Tue Nov 15, 2016 6:31 am
▁ ▂ ▃ ▄ ▅ ▆ ▇ Ophelia Estelle QuatrezQueen of Ethe ❛It is a curious thing, the death of a loved one. We all know that our time in this world is limited, and that eventually all of us will end up underneath some sheet, never to wake up. And yet it is always a surprise when it happens to someone we know. It is like walking up the stairs to your bedroom in the dark, and thinking there is one more stair than there is. Your foot falls down, through the air, and there is a sickly moment of dark surprise as you try and readjust the way you thought of things.❜ ▇ ▇▇ ▇▇▇ ▇▇▇▇ ▇▇▇▇▇ ▇▇▇▇▇▇ ▇▇▇▇▇▇▇
I'm feeling:Nervous, Confused | I'm with:Kaede Lorent | I have:$700EC
"I do not mind the dark much."
It wasn't too hard to tell from the tone of his voice. He wasn't too fond of this, perhaps. Ophelia felt a little bad for bringing him to such a place, but the queen found it comforting, much more comforting than Amalia's temple, if anything. This was no doubt Bellris' goddess, one that held dark magic, but Ophelia wasn't bothered by it. "My apologies, I don't mean to make you feel uneasy. Do let me know if you're uncomfortable, then I won't linger around for long." she murmured quietly, casting her gaze towards the statue of a beautiful woman. From her garb, Ophelia would pull out a gem, a strange one, in fact. It was purple, and it did not glimmer like the rest of the gems would. This one held an ominous aura to it, it felt dark, it felt.. heavy. She wondered just what this was, but she supposed, she'd place it where it belonged. A temple of darkness. Ophelia stepped forward, and she'd lower the gem in front of the statue. The pale moonlight gleamed off the surface of her eyes as she gazed up upon the relatively large statue partially illuminated by the light that seeped through the creaks of the stone walls.
"Then I want to remain here, until dawn. I want to escape from those castle walls that held nothing but loneliness. I don't want to feel the touch of his fingers, nor the look in his eyes. It scares me, so.." she stood up, slowly turning around to meet his golden gaze once more. "I just wanted to be free.." answered the queen as she slowly stepped towards her guard, the captain who sworn to protect her. Ophelia lowered her head and downcast her gaze. What did she do to deserve such kindness? She noticed the frown upon his face out of the corner of her eyes when he failed to answer her question at first. He, too, felt on-edge and Ophelia knew better than to accept such an invitation, to escape her duties. She knew better than to put their lives at risk if they were to be caught, but when Kaede stepped forward, her gaze would flick upwards, and her ears would meet his words of wisdom. Words that soothed her raging nerves. He'll be by her side, and that was all that matters. Everything will be alright. "You're kind." she murmured, "But if anything happens, promise me you'll escape, that you wouldn't do anything rash. This is my responsibility, and the last thing I want is for you to shoulder the burden of the mistakes I've made. Promise me you wouldn't fight back, promise me you'll stay in this temple, out of sight if any Lionis guards were to bring me back to the castle." but despite how pleasant it felt to be showered with such gentleness and kindness, Ophelia felt as if she didn't deserve it. She'd rather keep him out of harm's way if Azazel's people were to be sent for her. There was no need for anyone else to be harmed, no need for more casualties than there already are.
"Here? But we do not even have any music?" his words snapped her out of her thoughts, and she found herself chuckling lightly, her voice bouncing off the stone walls. She'd find her hand within the confinements of his slender fingers once more, and she'll feel the warmth that radiated off his skin. "You'll be fine, Kaede. It's been a while, too, since I last danced. There's no need to be so formal." she found herself laughing as she guided the hand from his back, to her waist before she'd lay her hand upon his shoulder. Small steps, slow and steady she led him around in circles, and she'd hum the melody she was ever so familiar with. The melody that played when she'd dance with her daughter in the large ballroom. Soren would sometimes accompany them, and she'd smile at the beautiful memory. She felt calm, at ease. She felt free. "You're not as bad as you say you are, Kaede."
Somehow, for some reason, she'd mentally pray, not for herself, but for the people of all kingdoms. This wasn't the place to do so, but she felt the need for it, for she knew, this goddess would protect the people of Bellris, should any harm befall them. Agni was the goddess of Ethe, Mnerolth, of Zalto. Leo, of Phobos. Then, there was Zedekiah, the God of Justice. Ophelia smiled wryly, wondering just why nothing has happened. Why none of this 'so-called' justice would befall upon that wretched emperor. She prayed, and she prayed hard. That the people he harmed would have their vengeance, that all the people in the five kingdoms would have the justice they deserved. The wives he so brutally murdered. She knew this wasn't the temple for vengeance, revenge, nor was it for peace but Ophelia knew the gods could hear her nonetheless. So will she, she will stand by and watch the day Azazel falls from his throne. Her eyes darkened, clouded with what seemed like hatred and agony. Who would've known, that someone so pure, someone so innocent, could hold such vengeance within her eyes. It was then..
Everything went blank altogether.
Her head was spinning, and what felt like needles were stabbing her in the back of her head. Her surroundings seem different, and she was no longer in her temple. Where was she? Sounds of screaming could be heard, blood red liquid dyed the floors and the surface of their well polished swords. Yuriel, that named echoed painfully within her mind. A woman, with silver locks, sapphire orbs turned around. They were having an argument. They were surrounded by death and Ophelia has never seen such a violent sight displayed before her very eyes. What is this war? Demons? What demons were they speaking of? People were murdered by this woman before her very eyes, and it was as if she felt no remorse when she drove the sword through their bodies. Taajah, another name, a man who was murdered by the woman, Yuriel.
Azorah Mazarah? Yuriel Glass? Castle of Wyndal? Where is that?
Ophelia's ears were painfully pierced by the cries of the woman. Their queen, as she was forced into a coffin, buried alive but before her body would hit the floor, everything would fade away, and she eventually found herself back to where she once was. The temply of Antari.
There Ophelia sat, kneeling on the ground, panting and gasping over her racing heart. What had happened? What did she see? When has she ever had such an ability? Was that a vision? Was that the past? Her expression was pale, and she found herself trembling out of fear. Was that what it was like during a war? Bodies littered everywhere, lives brutally taken. Is that what would happen to Kaede if he were to ever go to war? She'd lift her gaze, eyeing him with what seemed like fear. Covered in blood, taking lives. What for? She'd simply sit on the ground, her hand still tightly clasped around his fingers.
"What.. was that..?"
Out.Of.Crocodiles: Excuse me for posting first- I'll edit the post later, I just had an idea popping into my head and I had to get it down rofl
Axuqa
ShadowStar369
[/quote[
Posted: Mon Nov 21, 2016 4:28 am
“I sold my soul And they told MeI was Holy."
━━━━━━━━━━━
☥ I don't have wings ☥
The young priestess smiled lovingly at her flock of companions, singling one out and gently gliding her forefinger across its feathered back. Her crows were the only living creatures that stayed with her no matter what. They were the only company she had most days. With the exception of the goddess Antari, of course. Her namesake. She cooed softly and smiled when the creature gently nuzzled its head against her hand. "I can't wait to see him again..." She confided, listening to them chatter quietly amongst themselves in a series of caws and movements. Antari started at the sound of people entering the temple and pressed a finger to her lips, motioning for her friends to be silent. She had no idea who the newcomers could be, as seldom few dared enter this temple of darkness. She could hear them even in this small private room. Ever the curious woman, she grabbed her veil and left the room to investigate. Slipping the veil on, over her pale features, she made her way to the heart of the temple. Sticking close to the shadows and walking on almost silent footsteps, she was able to see the duo that had come. A man and a woman. They were dancing. Antari seated herself in the wings, trying to be as silent as possible as she once again, thanked the goddess for her ability to see in the dark. She seated herself on the ground and pulled her knees up to her chest, resting her chin on them while she watched their offering with a smile on her face. Ever since she was a child, she had always loved to watch people dance. It was yet another common trait she shared with her namesake. It settled her. And as she watched the couple dance, she couldn't help but think that they were beautiful. The woman had beautiful long hair that was so pale, it rivalled the moon's soft light. And her eyes... They were stunning. She had to be the prettiest woman Antari had ever seen. And from what she could see of the woman's partner, she could tell that he was rather handsome. Although her biased mind had to point out that he didn't compare to Herod. At least in her opinion. She wondered if they were betrothed? They were so beautiful together. The veiled woman dare not close her eyes for even a moment, although a small sigh filled with longing escaped her lips. She wished she could dance like that with Herod. Or that she could dance at all. But the talent had never taken with her. Although she'd never had anyone teach her, so that might play a role in her failure to learn. Her eyes were glued to the dancing figures in a childlike wonder, but their dance was short. Broken suddenly by the fall of the pretty woman. She seemed to withdraw somewhere within herself, and Antari could feel magic in the air, acting as an invisible pressure that pressed against her small form. From where she sat, she could clearly see the woman's face, and in that instant, she knew what had happened. This woman was having a vision. Her gaze trailed over to the beautiful gem the silvernette had held earlier, and she'd feel as if the temple had finally won back something that it had lost. But she had no idea what it was. The priestess rose to her feet and dusted herself off, making her way towards the duo in silence. Her crows were growing restless in the next room, and some had even ventured out after her, flying above the trio. "It seems as if the gods have responded to your prayers." She answered softly, her voice gentle, almost soothing. It wasn't unheard of. Sometimes the gods would answer prayers in the forms of miracles. Sometimes in gifts. And other times, in visions. Gwendelynn, cawed softly and perched herself upon Antari's shoulder, peering down at the beautiful woman curiously.
☥ So flying with me won't be easy ☥
━━━━━━━━━━━
“But it's the Devil That's tryingto hold Me."
❣ Location → Temple of Antari ❣ Company → Myself, My crows, A couple ❣ Mood → Awestruck ❣ OOC → That's fine! There's no need. Love the idea by the way. ^^ Sorry for the late and crappy response. crying
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Posted: Mon Nov 21, 2016 12:24 pm
xxxk a e d e xxxxxx l o r e n t
✧Location | Temple of Antari xx✧ Company | Ophelia, Antarixx✧Mood | Worriedxx✧ Money | $245 EC
"It would take more than darkness to make me part from your side simply because I am uncomfortable." he replied, casting aside his slight jumpiness. He gazed upon the offering, relatively surprised that she had such a possession. But, if this is were its resting place must be, then he had nothing against it. The dark jewel seemed strange, but his basic knowledge from smithing told him that this was something beyond the average mineral. As the pale moonlight illuminated her futures and made her eyes glow with radiance, Kaede looked away, feeling his ears were much warmer than before.
Kaede knew that he had to follow her requests, as much as he disliked them. He dutifully nodded and looked at her square on. "I promise." he replied. As they began to dance, Kaede was glad for how the temple was mostly dark. When she took his hands, Kaede was sure she would be able to hear how fast his blood was pulsing. Once his other hand was resting on her waist and they were slowly gliding across the main floor, Kaede felt quite awkward at first. Luckily, Ophelia was leading so as long as he didn't step on her feet. While dancing, Kaede was so focused on dancing his best that he didn't notice that they were being watched. "Not as bad.. it must because of your grace that I am doing better than I would usually." he replied. There was something so serene and peaceful, despite how much he could barely focus.
That moment popped like a soap bubble. As she seemed to be lost in thoughts, he noticed that her glowing eyes darkened. He paused from dancing about to ask when she suddenly fell. He managed to catch her, crying, "Ophelia!" She sank to the ground, trembling. Then, she looked at him, full of fear. What had happened? Kaede had no idea what had transversed in the last seconds. "Ophelia, are you ok?" he persisted, his hands holding hers gently, despite her tight grip. He didn't know what to do; He had to bring her to safety, somewhere for her to see that it was ok.
Then, he heard the sounds of someone approaching and the sound of crows. Kaede immediately turned, his hand resting on his katana's hilt by instinct. His eyes narrowed, thinking it was someone who came to hurt Ophelia, one of the emperor's men. However, upon seeing the female with crows, face shrouded in a veil, Kaede recognized that she was part of the temple and Maude. "What are you talking about?" he demanded, glancing at Ophelia worriedly. "What did the gods do to her?!"
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✧OOC It's completely fine!! I'm so excited augh!!xxxxxxxxx
yo punny nut
ShadowStar369
Posted: Mon Nov 21, 2016 8:11 pm
▁ ▂ ▃ ▄ ▅ ▆ ▇ Ophelia Estelle QuatrezQueen of Ethe ❛It is a curious thing, the death of a loved one. We all know that our time in this world is limited, and that eventually all of us will end up underneath some sheet, never to wake up. And yet it is always a surprise when it happens to someone we know. It is like walking up the stairs to your bedroom in the dark, and thinking there is one more stair than there is. Your foot falls down, through the air, and there is a sickly moment of dark surprise as you try and readjust the way you thought of things.❜ ▇ ▇▇ ▇▇▇ ▇▇▇▇ ▇▇▇▇▇ ▇▇▇▇▇▇ ▇▇▇▇▇▇▇
I'm feeling:Fearful, Confused | I'm with:Kaede Lorent | I have:$700EC
She knelt upon the ground, her hands tightly clutched onto her robe as she gasped painfully for air, struggling just to catch her breath. What was that sight? What did she see? When has she ever had such an ability? Perhaps she was just exhausted, yes, that must be it. However, she could not bring herself to erase what she saw with her own eyes. Those surroudings, those occuring events were too real for any of it to be ‘just her imagination’.
She could smell death in the air, the painful cries echoing into her esrs, and the smell of blood puncturing her nostrils. Corpses littered the ground from where she stood, and it wasn’t hard to tell they’ve led a painful death. Most of their faces were unrecognisable, having been covered by their blood and what was remaining of its flesh. Ophelia felt herself gag at the thought and she’d quickly cover her mouth. This woman, this queen. Yuriel Glass. How could she be so cruel as to run a knife through her own men? Ophelia would shudder at the sound of Yuriel’s cries as she was forced into the coffin and buried alive. Her expression was twisted, vile. She was wretched, devoured by vengeance, unwilling to leave a survivor of those ‘monsters’ she claimed despite how they had retreated, already incapable of attacking for many centuries to come. They weren’t monsters. Yuriel was. She was so.. monstrous. The memory alone frightened the queen to her core. ”Ophelia!” his voice finally came through, and she’d find herself tightly grasping onto his hand. Her mismatched eyes eventually found his golden orbs, and she’d find herself calming down ever so slightly. That everything was nothing more than just a vision into the past. There was nothing to fear.. nothing at all.
”I-.. I’ll be fine..” she answered, her fingers still quivering from the panic she felt earlier. There was one thing that surprised her even further, and that was the worry that had shown itself through his tone of voice. Never has she seen such a side to her captain, and never has he shown any other signs of emotions other than the monotone he usually spoke in. It was pleasant for a change, and it made Ophelia feel at ease. She’d look at him, and she’d reach her free hand to caress his cheeks as a small smile worked its way across her features. ”That’s the first time I’ve heard you panic-.. You seem more.. human.” she paused, ”Maybe I should do this more often..? So I get to see more sides to you-” she chuckled in attempt to lighten the tension within the air, though her voice sounded rather stiff and forced. She knew this wasn’t the right time to be saying such things, but the queen disliked the stiffness in the atmosphere, she disliked the tension. She’s had enough of it within the Lionis castle. She’d flinch at the faintest sounds of footsteps and she’d start panicking altogether. Who was that? Azazel? One of his men? It was then, she’d be reminded of the bloodied sight of the corpses, the painful expression upon the man’s face when Yuriel drove her sword into his chest. What if that happened to Kaede? He can’t. He promised. She’d move herself in front of her captain, and held him to her in a protective manner, as if a mother guarding her own child. ”Y-you can’t draw your sword-.. You promised-” she pleaded, her gaze full of fear as she gazed into his eyes. ”P-Please don’t hurt him- I-I’ll go back to the castle with you s-so..” she’d turn around, spreading her arms out as she attempted to block Kaede out of their sight though her attempts were quite futile. He is much larger than her, after all.
"It seems as if the gods have responded to your prayers." a feminine voice bounced off the walls and Ophelia would find herself confused. She narrowed her gaze in attempt to get a better view. Dark veil, crows. This woman reassembled the goddess Antari and the queen would come to realize who it was exactly. The priestess.. it seems ”The gods..? They can hear me..?” she murmured, finding it almost unbelievable. So the gods can hear their prayers after all, the good and the bad. Then why did Ethe..? Ophelia would eventually lower her head apologetically despite her high status as royalty. Status wasn’t something that mattered to her. Neither was power. When they die, when they’re stripped off whatever title they have, what would they be then? She had wanted to ask Azazel such a question but she knew she’d be putting a foot into death if she did. He wasn’t exactly the type to listen, and certainly not from her: a mistress he kept in the dark. Ophelia bit down against her lip, finding the truth a little painful to comprehend. A mistress? Her?
When Kaede’s worried voice could be heard once more, she’d turn her head towards him, catching a glimpse of his worried expression. Ophelia cupped his cheeks and shook her head. She was alright. She’ll be fine. Though she wasn’t quite sure just how she should explain her situation to him. Instead, she’d rub his cheeks with her thumb, ”It is alright.. I am alright.. I’m sure the gods meant no harm-..” her body has been frail as of late, and perhaps that was why she collapsed so easily. ”You must be the priestess of this temple, if I’m not mistaken.. M-May I inquire your name?”
Out.Of.Crocodiles: It's all goooooddd loved your reply akchsochksjfks i ship herod and antari so hard omgomg
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ShadowStar369
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Posted: Tue Nov 22, 2016 3:47 am
“I sold my soul And they told MeI was Holy."
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☥ I don't have wings ☥
A pair of unusual eyes followed the male's hand to the sword that rested at his hip. Was he going to draw it? But she hadn't done anything wrong! Gwendelynn squawked sharply in warning, her claws digging almost painfully into her shoulder. She lifted a hand to silence her companion. "There is no need for that knight. But I must warn you that it is against the Maude's law to harm a priestess. I would not take your attack personally, but I cannot say the same for my friends." She motioned to the group of crows circling above. They had altered their flight patterns, circling in a way that would make it easy for them to attack the newcomers. Although she personally had no defensive of offensive capabilities, she could always rely on her friends to protect her. "In answer to your question, the gods have bestowed a vision upon her. Although in future, it would be best not to pray to another god in the temple of another." Her tone sounded humorous, as if she were genuinely amused by the thought. Normally others would not know to whom another is praying, but usually when one prayed to Antari, the priestess would feel a warm sensation envelope her mind and heart.
"The interpretation of the vision is up to the viewer. But I must warn you not to overanalyse things, or presume too much. It can send even the strongest of men to madness." She continued, her voice now somber. She had known someone who could receive visions from the gods. He was practically worshipped by the people of his homeland. But he had gone sick with power and when he had lost the ability to see those visions, he had become insane and thrown himself into the path of a speeding carriage. "H-Hurt him...?" Now it was Antari's turn to become confused. Why on earth would she hurt them? Just because she belonged to a temple of darkness, did not mean she was evil. Darkness did not always equate to evil. Just as light did not always bring good. A lesson she had often taught her students at the school. It was then, that she realised the woman was afraid. Not of her. But of someone else. Someone was trying to find her. To hurt her. She cleared her throat and shooed the restless bird from her shoulder. "I don't know who you thought I was, or of who it is that you are afraid of, but... If it helps to ease your mind, you may come to this place whenever you want. This temple will act as a safe haven for you and your loved ones for as long as you need. They cannot harm you here, for in the Maude... Nobody is above the law." She should know that best of all. As her mother was once a priestess, and had met her own justice in the Khell. An image of her mother flashed before her and she froze. Her physical beauty was almost ethereal. With long raven locks and blue eyes the colour of the skies, she was an enchanting sight. But the expression she wore was twisted. Ugly. Her eyes were burning with a sick obsession. An obsession of the very priestess she served.
A shaky hand lifted to gently trace the thick, ugly scar that circled her neck from the time her mother had removed her head. Before her heart could stop, her mother had sewn her back together and healed her, keeping her alive. She had lived to face another day or torture. Shaking off the memory, she smiled. "Yes. The gods hear all. They see more. The gods are always here. Connected to all of us." She answered softly, allowing her hand to drop. Herod had never seemed to mind her horrible scars. Although she doubted he had been able to see them in the darkness. What would he say if he saw them all in the light? If he saw her ugliness? She shuddered at the thought of how he might abandon her, but pushed the feeling aside. How rude of her. She should be focusing on the couple in front of her instead of the man who was not. What had he done to her?
"M-My name?" The young woman seemed flustered all of a sudden. Never before had a stranger come to her temple and asked her name. She was just another veiled priestess amongst a sea of religious citizens. "Antari." She answered quietly, her voice warm as she ventured closer. She reached out and gently touched the woman's forehead with her index finger. "You are a being of light, and yet you do not fear the darkness..." She murmured thoughtfully, withdrawing her hand with an apologetic bow of her head. "What are your names? I would introduce you to my friends, but there are so many of them.. Others tend to get confused." She chuckled and held out her arm. The largest bird in her flock obediently perched on her outstretched limb and nuzzled into the hand that caressed his back. "This is Eron. He helps guide the lost." He lifted his gaze to stare right ahead at the beautiful woman with heterochromia eyes that seemed to glow in the dark. "You can pet him if you want. He doesn't bite." Antari had noticed how tense the air had become after her arrival and only hoped that the company of an animal could help lighten the mood.
☥ So flying with me won't be easy ☥
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“But it's the Devil That's tryingto hold Me."
❣ Location → Temple of Antari ❣ Company → Myself, My crows, A couple ❣ Mood → Thoughtful ❣ OOC → Kaede and Ophelia are so cute together! heart
yo punny nut
Axuqa
Posted: Tue Nov 22, 2016 10:33 pm
xxxk a e d e xxxxxx l o r e n t
✧Location | Temple of Antari xx✧ Company | Ophelia, Antarixx✧Mood | Worriedxx✧ Money | $245 EC
Funny to think that Ophelia tried to joke even in this situation. Her safety was his highest priority, and it pained him that he couldn't help her with what she had apparently witnessed or saw. His face softened though, though he was slightly hurt that she would joke about his lack of appearing.. human. When she caressed his cheeks, Kaede nearly swore under his breath; If she could read his mind, it wouldn't matter. Kaede was basically a whole bucket of conflicting emotions and didn't want Ophelia to know. To distract her, he gently flicked her in the forehead, hoping to all the gods that the Queen really did not see all other sides with all the flaws and holes in them. Then, she moved to be in front of him, as if hoping to block their watcher's sight from him. Now that slightly irked Kaede more than it should of; He will not fail to protect her at all costs.
Then, the voice of reason and reality hit. Kaede's grip was tight on the hilt of his sword, but he did not draw it. He then let go, and let his hand fall to his side. "My apologies." he said, watching the birds warily. The temple of Antari, a priestess of Antari, and a mob of crows. This is basically asking for something bad to happen. He then stood up to give a bow for forgiveness, his eyes respectful now as he was realizing who stood before them. "I meant no harm to the Maude or to any person here; It was unbecoming of me to think such violent thoughts here on sacred ground. I hope you can forgive my actions."
Once again, his face was inbetween Ophelia's hands as she tried to calm him. With the slightest pout, he nodded and parted from her hands. Still, he kept a wary look at their surroundings and the priestess included. The gods gave her ability to see visions. That would explain a lot. But, what bothered him was the fact that these interpretations of visions could send the strongest of men to madness. He didn't like that one bit, especially since Ophelia had enough to worry about already as is. He was grateful that the priestess seemed rather kind and took pity on them, even offering Ophelia to come here for sanctuary, thank the gods.
When Ophelia asked for the priestess's name, she had become flustered. Now that was a surprising reaction, even by Kaede's standards, and believe him, he had incredibly awkward reactions in the past when it came to his name. When the priestess came closer, Kaede's breath caught as his familiar, rather protective and wary stance nearly kicked in. It took much of Kaede's willpower not to step in front of Ophelia and ask extremely politely for the priestess nto to come closer. Wait, it just wasn't 'the priestess.' This was Antari, THE priestess. THE head of the Temple of Antari, THE Antari of the people. "This is Ophelia." Kaede introduced, deciding not to quite give Ophelia her proper title, in case she wanted to keep that secret. "And I am Kaede."
The air was obviously charged, probably his own fault for jumping to conclusions as usual. He stared at the various birds rather dumbly, as he had little to no knowledge of the actual birds. "They are well trained." he muttered in a monotone voice again, paying attention to the smaller birds flying and landing about. While the lack of emotion was rather sudden, especially after his unusual outburt, Kaede was quite interested in the birds themselves. If he could ever train birds like Antari could, imagine what the birds could do!
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✧OOC All aboard the ship trains~ xxxxxxxxx
yo punny nut
ShadowStar369
axuqa
Partying Waffles
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PUMMMY
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Posted: Wed Nov 23, 2016 12:58 am
▁ ▂ ▃ ▄ ▅ ▆ ▇ Ophelia Estelle QuatrezQueen of Ethe ❛It is a curious thing, the death of a loved one. We all know that our time in this world is limited, and that eventually all of us will end up underneath some sheet, never to wake up. And yet it is always a surprise when it happens to someone we know. It is like walking up the stairs to your bedroom in the dark, and thinking there is one more stair than there is. Your foot falls down, through the air, and there is a sickly moment of dark surprise as you try and readjust the way you thought of things.❜ ▇ ▇▇ ▇▇▇ ▇▇▇▇ ▇▇▇▇▇ ▇▇▇▇▇▇ ▇▇▇▇▇▇▇
I'm feeling:Cautious | I'm with:Kaede Lorent | I have:$700EC
With a gentle flick upon her forehead, she'd freeze. Did he just..?
Her forced smile would fall, and she'd seem a little guilty for speaking such words. "I just can't afford to lose anyone else.. I'm sorry." and when the unfamiliar voice could be heard, the queen would turn her head. Ophelia would watch the crows circling above them and though they were prepared to attack, instead of feeling fearful, Ophelia would watch them in awe, as if she envied them in some way. Spreading their wings, if only she could. If only she could be free. When the priestess were to speak again, Ophelia would tear her gaze away from the birds, and she'd find herself at loss for words when her prayers were heard. Instead, she'd cast her gaze towards the godess' statue, "My thoughts just-.. ran wild on its own.. I never meant to have such horrid prayers-.." she never meant to pray at all. She was simply here to enjoy the darkness within his silent temple, where it would only be her and her own thoughts, where she'd drown herself in complete silence. It frightened her, how she was capable of having such thoughts, feeling such vengeance. She couldn't harm Azazel no matter how much she wanted to because deep within her, she believes there would still be some good in him despite how horribly he's behaving. There must be. She downcast her gaze, her fingers tightly clasped together.
"There-.." she paused, looking up at both Kaede and the priestess. Her captain had a pout upon his face, and her hands would feel cold when he pulled away from her touch. He was wary of their surroundings, as always, her reliable captain. She took a deep breath, deciding to slowly speak of the vision she had. "I saw a lot of death-.. their faces hardly recognizable any longer. Yuriel Glass.. Castle of Wyndal.. S-she was their queen-.. they buried her alive- t-they buried her-" and Ophelia would find herself trembling once more at the memory of the sight she saw. Her twisted expression, how much blood there was staining her sword, staining the ground she stood. "H-how could there be so much violence in this world..?" she took a deep breath, holding her hands as tightly as she could to stop them from shaking, or to at least stop them from shaking so much. "It can send even the strongest of men to madness." her words echoed into Ophelia's ears and she'd shut her eyes, as she backed herself towards Kaede. She'd shake her head, unwilling to recall what she saw. The cries, the screams. It brought back horrible memories, memories that should be kept buried within herself. She need not remember the sight of her people devoured by the wrath of Mt. Adara, how her castle was caught in flames, how William was holding Cheza when they recovered their bodies. She refused to remember how her world came crashing down all at once, her kingdom, the loss of her people, her family. If only she could tell them how much she loved them. If only she had another chance. If only time would turn itself back.
"Legally as well, Queen Ophelia, you have no husband, no children...the volcano saw to that." Azazel's words run painfully in her ear. "Gods be good if they have blessed you to take the burden of a son to grow inside your womb." she quietly murmured in a voice meant only for her to hear, and she'd gently place her hands against her abdomen, hoping that she wouldn't have to shoulder the burden of having his children. She leaned against her captain, feeling herself standing upon the edge of a cliff, just a little tilt, and she'll fall into the depths of madness. Has she not have enough on her plate? What was those visions for? What purpose does it serve? And it was then, her trance was broken by the woman's beautiful vocals once more. She parted her eyelids, inviting the strange warmth that the darkness provided. It was strange. Even when she was just a child, she loved the darkness despite having born a being of light. She viewed them equally. It balances each other out. Darkness and Light. "..You're a very kind person." Ophelia answered, her voice quiet. She'd find herself relaxing in the company of the priestess, as if her voice held a comforting mechanism. Or perhaps, Ophelia was simply too trusting towards others. She'd turn towards her captain, taking notice of how wary he's being, "It's alright, Kaede.. I didn't mean to startle you. I don't think anyone would come to the Maude at this hour.." she reassured, though it appears she's speaking more to herself, than to her captain. She was soothing her own fears, her own paranoia.
Ophelia's eyes would glisten ever so slightly, taking notice of how flustered the priestess was being, the priestess that shared the same name as the goddess herself. Her expression would soften, allowing her guard to drop, allowing the darkness to engulf her being. She felt strange. Her heart was racing, out of nervousness yet at the same time, she felt so eerily calm. "Antari." she murmured, burning the name into the depths of her mind, "It's very beautiful." she answered, and Ophelia would hesitate ever so slightly when the woman stepped closer, her hands reaching forth. The queen hasn't been too fond of having people touch her, not since the first encounter with Azazel, not since the pain he put her through, but somehow, despite all that, Ophelia would lean forward ever so slightly, allowing the touch of her fingertips against her forehead. Antari's words were a little surprising to hear, and when she lowered her head apologetically, Ophelia would do the same. "Is there anything to fear about the darkness? Ever since I was a child, I've found it strangely.. very calming." she asked, straightforwardly. Why did people fear the dark, she never quite understood. "Is it strange..? For me to dwell in the dark?" she asked, lifting her head to look at the priestess. She couldn't see past the veil, she couldn't see much at all, in fact. What did the priestess look like? Perhaps she'll never know.
Kaede would introduce the both of them, and she'd smile at him. She appreciated the fact he did not speak of her title. There was no need to. Antari has a lot of crows, her friends, she calls them. Ophelia smiled, she, too, had her small friends at one point. "Eron." she called out, unconsciously reaching forth to caress the soft feathers. It was soft to touch, and a smile would curve her lips. Beautiful, she thought. Its gaze were locked onto hers, and she found herself unable to tear her eyes away from it. "I used to have a white tiger. His name was Zephyr. It saddens me how people would kill for his fur. He had the loudest roar, the most beautiful eyes I've ever seen.. but Mt. Adara took him.." her face fell ever so slightly, however, her sadness were short-lived when she would be reminded of her doves. Most of them survived, living in the garden within her royal abode. It was then, the flapping of wings could be heard from afar, and Ophelia would turn her head, only to notice one of the messenger birds. The queen lifted her hands, allowing it to land upon her fingers. Such a docile creature it was, she'd nuzzle her nose against its head, and the bird would do the same. However, when she noticed the letter, her eyes would widen in horror. It was from Azazel. What did he want now? She cast a worried glance to Kaede and opened the letter, her fingers trembling as they tightly clutched onto the paper.
"Lady Ophelia Quatrez, Sworn Kingdom of the Empire, Queen of Ethe; You are no longer requested to continue your ventures to the capital unless it is for matters of a political nature or for your own pleasure and leisure. Your fealty to the Empire shall be maintained, to be called upon in times of war if it shall be needed, the reconstruction of Ethe and the troops supplied to your Kingdom shall be maintained in return for your Fealty. As of today, May the 8th of the year 201, Azazel Drosselmeyer, Your Liege Lord, and Emperor of Lionis"
"Antari.. you said the gods can hear our prayers.." she stated, before she handed the letter towards Kaede. It was dark, but she managed to make out the words. What is this? Does this mean she need not return? She'd tremble. Isn't this something to be delighted about? Then, why does she still feel so terrified? "What does that mean..? Why so sudden? Why now..?" her voice quivered, and her tears would well up within her heterochromias. Is she really..? Is she allowed to believe it? "Am I.. is it real..? Am I allowed to stay..?" she asked, her hands tightly grasping onto her captain's. "Kaede, tell me it's real. Tell me I don't have to return.. tell me I don't have to leave every time I return to Ethe-.. tell me I can stay with my people.. tell me it's not a lie. It's not a lie, it's not a dream.. Tell me Kaede, tell me." she felt so emotional, so messed up. Her thoughts were jumbled up and she found herself unable to speak any further as her tears would run down her cheeks. She'd look at Kaede, her eyes pleading for him to tell her what she read was true, that she no longer had to bear with the pain Azazel puts her through, that she no longer had to be abused, that she no longer had to be forced to do the things she didn't want to, that she was finally free. No more cries of pain, no more blood, no more markings. She'd sit on the cold temple grounds, and she'd sob. It was all she ever wanted, all she ever needed. She allowed her whimpers to echo throughout the quiet temple, and the homing pigeon would coo, as if sounding its approval. She felt tired, so exhausted. The weight has lifted off her shoulders, yet it felt even heavier than ever. She felt so confused. Is it really alright, for her to be happy over this? Will her people really be alright? Will she really be alright? Is everything.. alright?
Out.Of.Crocodiles: Sorry if my post is a little too long- //creii i got carried away-
Axuqa
ShadowStar369
Posted: Sat Dec 03, 2016 10:02 am
xxxk a e d e xxxxxx l o r e n t
✧Location | Temple of Antari xx✧ Company | Ophelia, Antarixx✧Mood | Worriedxx✧ Money | $245 EC
Kaede still surveyed the surroundings, his golden eyes the only things that betrayed his uneasiness. However, his first priority was to be by Ophelia's side. As she spoke of the vision, Kaede felt disappointed in himself; He had no idea of these names or alike. Admittedly, Kaede wasn't the most intelligent person, he had lived a life of blacksmithing and training as a night. His educational studies have been close to nil; He wasn't even able to read that much, save for combative maps and alike. He didn't like how matter-of-fact the Priestess was about these visions driving the strongest men mad. As Ophelia crept closer, he reassuringly put a hand on her forearm, not hold it, but enough to remind her that he was there for her and her only.
He made no further comment as the priestess and queen conversed, luckily with the latter feeling the sanctuary and sacredness of the temple. Perhaps, perhaps he could find some respect for the goddess of Bellris. Even if she wasn't the most.. righteous of figures, in the end, he can respect that it how a certain world was ruled. Kaede dimly heard of the white tiger Zephyr making him recall the first time he had met the tiger. Well, not met. He heard of it and saw it. He had never seen a tiger except in books, but not even an albino one. Prior to the eruption of Mt. Adara, Kaede had almost decided to try to chase it off because it was alone and he thought that the 'oversized cat' would be a hazard to others. It was only thanks to some nearby guards that Kaede didn't attack the precious tiger. The fact that the tiger didn't survive was another loss on Ophelia's list. Just how much suffering did she have to go through before finding happiness?
As the sound of new wings, Kaede turned to see a messenger bird land into Ophelia's hand, delivering a latter. Kaede narrowed his eyes, worried that it was the damn emperor and he was doing something. He glanced at Ophelia and gave her a nod of encouragement. No matter what happened, Kaede will be by her side. Then, she spoke and handed the letter to him. Well, great. Kaede took the paper and read as much as he could of the contents. Thank the gods it was in common language. Confusion mixed with relief flooded through Kaede. Ophelia didn't have to return to that monster. She was free.
"Yes, yes, Ophelia, yes." Kaede replied, ignoring the first part tactfully. He gripped her hands, retaining eye level. As tears flooded in her eyes, Kaede raised his gloved hand to wipe the tears gently off her face. "It's real. You don't have to return to him. You can stay with your people. It's not a dream. You're free from him." he promised, whispering it gently and pushing his personal feelings away as much as possible. He heard it. Ohh, Kaede heard her offhand, near silent comment earlier of the burden of a son. How much Kaede's heart was in such painful splits right now. She was finally free from returning to the monster's bed; However, she still was carrying its child.
While she leaned towards the floor, Kaede picked up the pigeon. As much as he wanted to send a nasty message back to emperor, Kaede knew that now, especially now, was not the time. Instead, he would simply pet its head and allow it to settle on his shoulder. Ophelia needed a moment to recognize this moment of freedom, and Kaede will make sure that it stay that way.
