Welcome Guest
[Log In]
[Register]
| Welcome to Sonic Rapid Board. We hope you enjoy your visit. You're currently viewing our forum as a guest. This means you are limited to certain areas of the board and there are some features you can't use. If you join our community, you'll be able to access member-only sections, and use many member-only features such as customizing your profile, sending personal messages, and voting in polls. Registration is simple, fast, and completely free. Join our community! If you're already a member please log in to your account to access all of our features: |
| The Final March | |
|---|---|
| Tweet Topic Started: Jun 29 2017, 04:25 PM (7,982 Views) | |
| GoldenSama | Dec 3 2017, 04:03 PM Post #391 |
![]()
The Crazy One
![]()
|
[Hoshido] [Shirasagi Castle] Musashi went on ahead, down the familiar halls where he had grown up. Takumi had departed, and the various ninja guard had gone with him – although there was a sense that eyes were still upon the group as they walked. Tamamo was in the rear, behind Hiko and Celeste, and walking slowly. She kept her head down and nibbled on her lip. She was not happy about being here... although the castle had changed so much in the many long years, it was still familiar. It smelled the same – and memories were coming back. Painful memories she wanted to forget. Eventually they made their way to a grand throne room; a very large room with elegant banners and decoration, and up on a raised platform was a tall throne made of redwood and adorned with gold and precious stones. There was a man standing in front of the throne. Very tall, wearing crimson armor that was not too dissimilar to the type Musashi wore, and a white overcoat. His hair was extremely long and there was a stern look on his face – and at his side was a katana in a gold and white sheathe, which seemed to radiate magic with just a glance. ![]() “... Showing up unannounced, using the Dragon Vein, bickering with Takumi the moment you return home... you've not lost your touch, brother.” Ryoma stared at Musashi, but there was the faintest trace of a smile at the corner of his lip. “We needed to get here in a hurry, no time to climb the mountain... and Takumi started it, as you well-know.” Musashi crossed his arms. “Anyway... Hiko, Celeste, Tamamo – this is Prince Ryoma of Hoshido, the reigning monarch. Ryoma, these are my new friends... and we've had a real crap day, so at least hear us out, okay?” [Nohr] [Inn] When Liam returned, Caitlin quickly took her bag and thanked him – and then she shushed him. “Graham has something he wants to tell us. Something important.” She didn't sound very happy. Graham knew why. He had been keeping a secret from her, and that was rarely a good idea... but he had his reasons. He sighed, running his hand through his hair. “Okay... so... I guess to explain, I first need to admit something... you won't like it, Cait, but...” He bit his lip. This one would be a lot more painful. “... My last name isn't Riggs. It's Davenport.” “Why does that sound familiar?” Caitlin frowned, trying to place the name. Then it hit her and her eyes went wide. “Wait... as in THE Davenports? From El Gaia? From the Mage's Academy?” Graham gave a sullen nod, and sighed. “... Yes. My father was Alatar Davenpor. One of the scholars of ancient magic at the Mage's Academy. He specializing in studying very old, lost magics. The kind of stuff that became scattered throughout history, for various reasons.” “Why the heck wouldn't you tell me something like this?” Caitlin frowned, hands on her hips. “... Cait, please, just let me get through this and I'll answer everything afterwards.” Graham was clearly still in pain – not just from his eye, anymore. “... I also... had a sister. Luna. She was older than me. Our mother was one of the nobles in El Gaia, and our father a busy scholar, so they stayed pretty busy... but Luna was always there for me. Even when I had really bad ideas.” Graham bit his lip, having to fight back a tear. He wondered how long it had been since he said her name out loud? “... Anyway, about five years ago, my mom fell ill. Very ill. My father enlisted the help of everyone he could find. Alchemists, mages, healers.. but none of them could cure her.” “My father was desperate. Luna and I watched him falling apart. He wanted to save her more than anything in the world... and through his studies, he had learned of a supposed ancient sorcerer of incredible power. According to legend, this sorcerer was one of he greatest mages who ever lived, and he knew secrets that man wasn't supposed to know... it is said before his death he hid his secrets away in his tomb.” Just thinking about the tomb brought sweat to Graham's brow and a chill to his spine. “My father, he was desperate. He was willing to try any long shot, so he sought out the ancient sorcerer's tomb... and he never returned. My mother got sicker and sicker... even the healer who was helping her couldn't keep her alive much longer... so I told Luna I was going looking for dad. She came with me...” The tears started to swirl in Graham's eyes. “... We followed dad's notes and found the tomb... and we found... dad. Or at least... what was l-left of h-him...” Caitlin moved forward, her anger and annoyance forgotten and she hugged the boy and tried to stop him from speaking, but Graham shook his head and pulled away. He knew they needed to know the whole story and if he stopped now he may not be able to start again. “... We knew we couldn't help dad, but we thought we still had a chance to save mom so... we went into the tomb. We looked for the ancient sorcerer's secrets... and we found it. We found his power... but it was as dangerous as the old stories said... a small portion of that power wound up in my eye. Even with just a fraction of it, you've seen what I can do.” Caitlin bit her lip. There was clearly more. There had to be. “... What happened to the rest of the power?” Cait asked. Graham sighed, and he looked down at the floor as the tears finally fell. “... My sister got it... but it was too much. She couldn't control it. There was an explosion. Last thing I remember was Luna throwing me out of the tomb with her new magic, just as it collapsed... I... I tried to dig it back up and look for her, but I couldn't... it was like the ground was so soaked in magic it couldn't be dug...” Slowly, Graham started to compose himself. “... Anyway, that... that's the story of my eye... even if its just a little of that ancient magic, it's extremely powerful.” [Dali] “Is it common to ride chocobo through the village streets?” Garnet frowned. Both because it sounded odd, and because she... had no idea. This was her nation, these were her people – and she had no idea what was or wasn't unusual. “Hullo there!” ![]() Garnet gave a small jump at the sound, and Vivi looked nervous – but then a jolly old man with a great bushy mustache and even bushier eyebrows came waddling over on his cane. “Apologies for frightening you, travelers! I am Mayor Morrid. Not every day we get visitors!” [Ylisse] “Diarmund!” Artoria called out, watching as he was swatted away like a fly. This “Aku” was beyond anything she could have imagined. She frowned, gripping the unseen sword tighter. “That was your last mistake!” She called out as she charged – and then jumped into the air. Suddenly there was a great burst of wind and air, and she was launched higher into the air – at Aku's face – and she swung the unseen sword! |
![]() SHARP | |
|
|
| Crystal Rose | Dec 3 2017, 04:46 PM Post #392 |
|
GRAPPLING HOOK!
![]()
|
[Nohr] [Inn] When Liam returned and handed Rue her bag she gave him a grateful smile, but still remained quiet as she knew it was now time for Graham to explain exactly why that woman from before wanted his power. Both physically exhausted, and wanted to give him her full attention the girl sat down carefullly on a nearby rock, watching her sister's friend / boyfriend intently. Fortunately she was sitting because as Graham started to explain his history she felt even more unsteady in her stance. She didn't know how to react- until now Rue wasn't aware that power like this existed- And Caitlin- Poor Caitlin was obviously just learning all of this now too- "I'm sorry" Rue managed, unsure of what else could be said in response. Suddenly a faint whistle in the air caused Rue to perk up, realizing the sound was coming from an arrow that had just lodged itself in a tree dangerously close to where Caitlin stood with Graham. [Kanna's Nicer Coach] “I can chat with the women for you.” As expected Kanna shot Rica a glare of both annoyance and perhaps slight possesiveness- while she and Rica has a very open relationship of sorts (probably the most politically correct way to explain it) she still didn't like the idea of a bunch of loose women swooning over Rica. Much like he was probably annoyed when she went to spent a bit of private time with other men. He then turned his attention to Kanna's mention of Rouge and the woman shrugged. "She's incredibly powerful and rather cunning, but nothing I cannot handle." She then looked back to Joyce "You could learn a lot from her actually." “What do you need us to do?” Kanna looked back to Blake and Samara. "While I wasn't expecting you I think it would be worth it for you to meet her as well. Perhaps first without Samara. I doubt she's ever seen someone like you Blake" From her spot Joyce frowned a bit. She knew Kanna was using her, but her curiosity about this Madame Rouge woman was enough to let her continue...But Blake...While now a young man she was still a protective older sister to the boy. [Streets] Walking alongside her father Willow couldn't help but to frown. "Then those people they attacked...They're probably dead?" She wasn't sure why that bothered her quite as much as it did right now... Edited by Crystal Rose, Dec 5 2017, 09:22 PM.
|
| |
|
|
| The Vidit of Light | Dec 4 2017, 11:44 PM Post #393 |
![]()
I'll bite your legs off!
|
Nohr -Dali- Didymus paused at Garnet's question, reflecting on whether or not she would have known about the frequency of riding mounts through reasonably wide streets. He then realized she PROBABLY was sincere. He perhaps couldn't blame her for not terribly knowing, he wasn't always the most generally aware himself, but...on the other hand... ...just how sheltered HAD her life been? "Well, I don't know about Nohr, and in Galdwin it's horses more often than chocobos," he began, wondering if he should spare a thought for any technological developments he had heard were being discussed, though those weren't terribly commonplace, "but it's common enough to, when the streets are wide enough, ride a horse or have a drawn cart-" When he heard the mayor call out, he found himself a bit more tense, as well, but had to play it casual. Blast, subtly and sneaking were NOT his strong suits... Certainly, this gentleman looked friendly enough, but especially if he WAS the mayor, he may not take kindly to people asking too many sensitive questions, and also may have contacts with the Nohrian court that dealt with him...and that he could report to. Even if he meant them no harm, what if he was questioned later by Nohrian agents doubtlessly on their trail? No, the best way to keep him and his people safe (as well as themselves) was to make no mention of their aims or curiosities about this town save for one thing. "Ah, good evening, sir..." he said. "...we're simply passing through, don't plan to stay long. We're just heading to the chocobo farm in an attempt to purchase some of the beasts to help us be on our way..." |
|
(Insert witty/moving/inspiring phrase here) This is my car: ![]() Gas mileage is pretty bad, but traffic jams aren't a problem. | |
|
|
| HellAvatar | Dec 5 2017, 11:27 PM Post #394 |
![]()
Mad Scientist / Head of Intel Division
|
[Hoshido] [Castle Shirasagi, Throne Room] Hiko remained somewhat quiet, letting his senses and the atmosphere he was sensing wash over him as his soundless steps retraced Musashi's. The setting was so very different, yet somewhat familiar. Decorations he did not remember being here hung on the walls, though many older decorations still remained. It reminded him of times long gone, times when these halls were decked in even greater finery. In a way, the current state of Castle Shirasagi wasn't nearly as obnoxiously opulent as it used to be. Sure, it was still a rich and beautiful place to live, but it no longer threw wealth and power into the face of any who walked through the halls of the castle. If anything, the current wealth of Hoshido was understated in the tasteful decorations that lined the ealls, hung from the ceiling in banners, and glimmered in the lights cast by torches. A cool breeze blew through the halls as night fell outside the castle, and Hiko watched with interest as the lights of the various candles and magical bulbs cast the castle into a warm, welcoming light from within. And yet, he could sense some unease within the castle as he walked. It wasn't just Takumi, he could feel greater underlying tension from the life within the halls. Like a string being pulled taut on a stringed instrument, or more appropriately a bow being drawn with an arrow notched on the string and ready to fly. What did not surprise him was that the apprehension of his companions melded into this nervous energy extremely well. It was to their benefit that it did so, for he had a much harder time distinguishing the fact that they were also quite uncomfortable with the situations turnabout, but he felt at ease that they would not be singled out for their apprehension. Despite that understanding, he made sure to throw Tamamo a reassuring glance as he walked, giving her a small nod when her attention was drawn to him and away from her inner thoughts. Her inner turmoil was glaringly and painfully obvious to him, and he wished that he could somehow ease the woman's worries, even if those worries were founded and backed by history. That was when they stepped into the throne room, and the most familiar of sights greeted the swordsman. The throne, standing tall and proud as it had throughout the centuries of rule by the imperial line, stood as glorious as the day he first laid his eyes upon it. Almost wistfully, his memory threw up the image of a large and extremely comfortable cushion that used to reside next to the emperor's throne. How many years has it really been, he wondered, that the cushion had been removed from that spot... Looking upon the current emperor, Hiko could see the family resemblance. In fact, Ryoma's appearance was also quite nostalgic to the swordsman, for his features greatly resembled a young man he once stood before, holding a wooden blade and teaching the youngster the proper form and footwork. Ryoma was obviously different. His features were a little more chiseled, sharper than the boy he remembered, and his eyes were of a different color. But there was an air of calm confidence that he sensed from Ryoma, one that was a very common trait through the imperial line. He wondered if Musashi also possessed such a calm air as well, though at the moment the other swordsman was far too agitated. Hiko gave a deep bow at the waist to the man standing before him, properly deferential to the current ruling figure of the land without seeming sycophantic. "It is a pleasure to see that Hoshido still remains within good hands. I apologize for the intrusion, but we come bearing rather unsettling news." |
![]() Now becomes the the past in an instant — and everyone will eventually die! Destiny triumphs over human knowledge and goes mad! That is the way of things! I spit upon this frail, crazed, world! I spit upon the Second Law of Thermodynamics! ~ Desty Nova, Karmatron Theory Let them Label me! Let them swear and curse at me as I tug humanity like a bucking bull into the darkness of the unknown, revealing its secrets to the sane and driving them MAD! In ages long past, I shall be looked upon as a tyrant and a savior! As a savant and as a fool! My work shall advance humanity long past its time, throw it into the unknown future and force it to grow strong or FALL! Years from now, when I will inevitably be removed, my work shall continue to progress, because these things cannot be denied! Governments will publicly criticize my work, but privately conduct research that advances it! I shall imprint myself into the annals of history, among the stars that shine as brightly as Albert Einstein, Isaac Newton, Benjamin Franklin, Dmitri Mendeleev, Nikola Tesla, and countless others! My work will shine as brightly as any star, and I AM ITS CREATOR!!! ~ Desty Nova, Morality
| |
|
|
| GoldenSama | Dec 6 2017, 12:10 AM Post #395 |
![]()
The Crazy One
![]()
|
[Hoshido] [Castle Shirasagi, Throne Room] Ryoma gave a curt nod to Hiko, staring at the man for a longer moment now that he had spoken. Hiko was clearly a swordsman, and that always intrigued Ryoma. He wondered how Hiko's skill compared to Musashi. It seemed the two had elected to travel together, but Ryoma would worry about that later. “Well met, travelers. Would that I could offer you refreshments and a more comfortable meeting, but it seems whatever ill news you carry cannot wait; so tell me everything. You have my complete attention.” Ryoma called out. Musashi sighed, running his hands through his hair. “Well, it's a bit of a long story and I doubt I could explain most of it, but to put it simply – there was some kind of attack on the Tokohotsu Shrine... erm, Hiko, or Celeste maybe, would be better at the details.” Immediately, Ryoma looked concerned. His face hardened and he looked towards the others. [Nohr] [Dali] Morrid smiled at the group, an aged and toothy grin. Travelers meant coin, and that was something his sleepy village could really use. He nodded towards Didymus as he explained why they were here. “I see, I see! Well I can help you out with that. We usually don't rent out Chocobos, but I think we can come to an arrange-” The Mayor paused, and shook his head. “Ah, sorry, my mind is slipping in my old age, sometimes I trail off like that... anyway, yes, we can rent you some chocobos, but it may take some time to find saddles for them... we don't often ride them, you see. Why don't you enjoy our little town for a little while longer and I'll head on over and take care of things?” “Um... thank you.” Vivi called up to him. Morrid turned to the small boy for a moment, and he simply nodded, though he seemed slightly flustered. “N-Not a problem at all, m'lad! Not a problem at all!” [Inn] When the arrow slammed into the tree, Caitlin gasped and Graham felt a surge of panic run through him. Without his magic at the moment he was potentially a sitting duck – a one-eyed sitting duck! Caitlin however quickly drew her knife, looking in the direction the arrow had come from. “We've got company!” [Kanna's Nicer Couch] Rica could only laugh a bit at Kanna's reaction, but he went silent at the idea of Joyce and Blake meeting Rouge. If Madame Rouge was the kind of person Rica though she was to catch Kanna's eye, then this would be... dangerous. Oh well. He was there. It would be fine. |
![]() SHARP | |
|
|
| HellAvatar | Dec 6 2017, 12:44 AM Post #396 |
![]()
Mad Scientist / Head of Intel Division
|
[Hoshido] [Shirasagi Castle Throne Room] Hiko paused for a moment, gathering his thoughts about what he had seen and heard, ordering it all in his head before he began. "It is... More involved than just the Tokohotsu Shrine. I am a traveling swordsman, and I often find myself the recipient and receiving ear of many rumors and strange occurrences. The first of which was an event three years ago in the Haraku-Sen Mines and has to do with the collapse of the third mine shaft when something was discovered deep within the mine. While you may already be aware of what it is that was discovered and the importance of the discovery, I have been privy to a rather interesting chain of events that have led me to the perpetrators of the mine collapse. When the object was discovered, an imperial detachment was sent to the mines as hastily as the agents of the empire could possibly manage it. The mine collapsed on the majority of the expedition, but the object was recovered, and the investigation into the mine's eollapse showed it as damage to structural integrity during the object's discovery." Hiko paused, sighed and his expression turned a bit more somber. "That was not the case, and the imperial investigator in charge has, for one reason or another, omitted several details that have pointed to the obvious act of sabotage. The reason I know of this is because two years go, days after the revelation of Emperor Takezo's death to the public, I was involved in a rather strange chain of events that pitted the Iga Shinobi Clan against an unknown assailant. I do not know if you remember of a cell of Iga Shinobi suddenly vanishing without a trace of their existence, but they were encountered by an extremely efficient team of a rival clan of shinobi I have never been privy to before. Their symbol however..." Hiko dove into his sleeve and pulled out a scrap of cloth. It was cloth forged of malleable steel, and while the edges were slightly frayed around the edges, it was obvious the cloth had been severed by some extremely sharp edge. Upon it was an old and dried-brown blood stain and a symbol: a twelve-point shuriken overlaid over a 5-leaved lotus. "While I have personally never encountered this particular clan of shinobi before, perhaps you might be able to find more among the imperial archives and vested in the knowledge of your scholars. I know that this is no symbol of any of the known shinobi clans." Handing over the scrap of cloth, he continued. "this brings me to the next point: I have attempted to track the influence of the ninja bearing these marks, but have lost and picked up the trail more times than I could count. They are exceptionally evasive and I have never once met any of them in person, even though I have followed their activities quite closely for the past two years and they have been traveling in secret through Hishido territory unimpeded. Their trail has also led me to another uncomfortable location. Nohr." He paused again, letting his thoughts organize themselves properly, before continuing slowly. "I... Cannot be sure they have any involvement with recent diplomatic difficulties with Nohr, but it is highly suspect that there is no sign whatsoever of who it was that killed our diplomat seven months ago on Nohr territory, and similarly killed a Nohr diplomat on ours just a month later. What I do know, however, is that I have stumbled upon the ruined outpost that was attacked just two months ago, and yes I am ware that I said attacked, even though the official report is that it had simply been abandoned. Additionally, I do not know if you have heard of the diplomatic delegation of Galdwin that were making their way through Nohr at the time, and they have also disappeared without a trace. All these events are a bit too convenient to be happening close to one another. "More importantly, the outpost's unmanned state was then used to transport several... Undesirables across the border into Hoshido. Several of Nohr's more berserk arcane experiments made their way through that same pass, and while I have hunted down one of them and the second was slain by another traveling mercenary group, it is the third that made it into the Forgotten Forest that is the issue, since that is much closer to the capital. I have stumbled upon it just as Musashi-san and Celeste-san were finishing it off, though I doubt you will find its corpse where it was anymore." He gave a nod of respect to Musashi and Celeste and continued. "Finally, comes the last bit of information, which is the finding of the Tokohotsu Shrine. I am sure you might remember Emperor Takezo's aide, Sahashi Jinnai? He was a very passionate man and skilled onmyoji that wanted to establish a spiritual connection to the Forgotten Forest and align its spirits in a way that was no longer harmful to the empire, and as such requested that a shrine was built in the location. However, as you might remember, the shrine simply disappeared with all of its occupants one day and was never heard from again. I have happened to stumble upon it one day when lost within that forest, and have discovered that the entirety of its population has been corrupted, slain and turned to darkness, including Sahashi Jinnai as well as his two allies that came to protect him. This is why I have requisitioned the aid of Musashi-San, Celeste-san and Tamamo-san, to help clear that shrine of corrupting influence. However, once we have cleansed the corruption away, it was revealed to be based on a work of Nohrian alchemy, and we have encountered a... Sort of demi-spirit the likes of which I have never encountered, that took the form of a glowing red-and-black serpent. Additionally, and more worryingly, Sahashi Jinnai's daughter, Sahashi Chiho was not present in the shrine grounds at all, and nothing hinted to her ever being present there, even though it is known that she was with her father when the Tokohotsu Shrine was established." Edited by HellAvatar, Dec 6 2017, 12:46 AM.
|
![]() Now becomes the the past in an instant — and everyone will eventually die! Destiny triumphs over human knowledge and goes mad! That is the way of things! I spit upon this frail, crazed, world! I spit upon the Second Law of Thermodynamics! ~ Desty Nova, Karmatron Theory Let them Label me! Let them swear and curse at me as I tug humanity like a bucking bull into the darkness of the unknown, revealing its secrets to the sane and driving them MAD! In ages long past, I shall be looked upon as a tyrant and a savior! As a savant and as a fool! My work shall advance humanity long past its time, throw it into the unknown future and force it to grow strong or FALL! Years from now, when I will inevitably be removed, my work shall continue to progress, because these things cannot be denied! Governments will publicly criticize my work, but privately conduct research that advances it! I shall imprint myself into the annals of history, among the stars that shine as brightly as Albert Einstein, Isaac Newton, Benjamin Franklin, Dmitri Mendeleev, Nikola Tesla, and countless others! My work will shine as brightly as any star, and I AM ITS CREATOR!!! ~ Desty Nova, Morality
| |
|
|
| Crystal Rose | Dec 6 2017, 05:27 PM Post #397 |
|
GRAPPLING HOOK!
![]()
|
[Inn] Where one arrow came, suddenly a half dozen followed, leaving the group scattering for a place to hide from the attack. After almost a minute straight of arrows Jade appeared, this time with three men at her side, bows (and more arrows) in tow. "Fancy running into you four here" Jade purred, unarmed but also very much unafraid. She eyed the group before landing on Graham. "So....About you coming with me" The men beside her readied their bows once more. |
| |
|
|
| AGodofIrony | Dec 6 2017, 06:12 PM Post #398 |
![]()
I can't see what you're imagining
|
-Nohr- Dali Zadkiel regarded the man carefully, the mayor of the town. “May I come with you to help saddle the chocobo? I use to ride them with my wife back when we were younger, I would like to see if I still have the touch,” Zadkiel asked. While that was true, he was also concerned... and hoped to maybe get some more information from this man. Inn Liam listened carefully to Graham's words, about to ask something when the first arrow cut him off, moving to cover (after making sure Rue was safe), he gripped his sword as Jade arrived. Against that many arrows... Liam didn't like his odds. Then he paused, at the edge of his hearing, he was hearing... music? A familiar tune... “No...” Liam said, “Why'd he be here...?” Kanna's Nicer Coach “If you think so...” Blake said, glancing back to Samara. He was a little worried about Samara having to be off on her own though. Though, it wasn't because he was worried Samara might hurt someone, more that he was worried Samara would have trouble talking with people. Streets Edda frowned, realizing something with his daughter's question. “...Probably not,” Edda said. “If no bodies were found... the bandits either captured them or they managed to escape. Which means there's a decent chance they're still alive. Either for ransom or in the woods...” He was growing more worried. Liam was headed that direction himself, but he didn't see Liam hiring a coach... -Hoshido- Castle Shirasagi: Throne Room “Umm... greetings, I am Celeste Guillory, a mage, student of the El Gaia university,” Celeste said, giving a bow to Ryoma as they introduced themselves. She added some information to Hiko's story, about what the creature looked like, along with a bit of stuff about the fight, though left out anything about Tamamo being a kitsune... Or herself normally being male. -Ylisse- “Hahahahaha... you have moxie!” Aku laughed as Artoria leaped into the air, slashing her sword at him. The blade cut into him, the being of darkness cursing as he stumbled back, shocked. “What?! Your blade...” Aku growled. “That... hurt!” Aku roared, his body shifting, changing into a giant serpent, hissing and launching at Artoria now! |
![]() My FanFics! My Art! | |
|
|
| Crystal Rose | Dec 6 2017, 07:00 PM Post #399 |
|
GRAPPLING HOOK!
![]()
|
[Kanna's Nicer Coach] "It would be better that way" Kanna said, now stealing a glance at Samara. "But we'll bring her out when it's appropriate." Soon enough the coach stopped and the door was opened for the group. There stood a large manor, a home bigger than anything that Joyce or Blake would be used to. Kanna took the hand of the man who opened the door, stepping out and looking back at the group. "Stay close until we get in, then we can have a bit of fun" Joyce's eyes lit up instantly. This was WAY nicer than she was imagining. [Streets] Willow noticed her father's worried expression, even if he tried to be calm. She wasn't sure if she should acknowledge it but eventually she did. "Dad...You don't think..." She trailed off, refusing to vocalize it. Liam was much too smart to get captured by some bandits. Their parents made sure of it. |
| |
|
|
| GoldenSama | Dec 6 2017, 07:21 PM Post #400 |
![]()
The Crazy One
![]()
|
[Hoshido] [Shirasagi Castle – Throne Room] Ryoma listened calmly as Hiko and Celeste spoke. When Hiko brought up the Haraku-Sen Mine collapse, he grew a bit tense. It was one of the last large problems that his father had dealt with before his unexpected and untimely death. He listened to the stories, and while his face remained stoic it was clear from his eyes that concern was building. He looked at the cloth that Hiko presented, and studied the symbol, but it meant little to him. He turned to his side and called out, apparently to no one. “Kagero, go and fetch Yukimura, if anyone can recognize this it would be he.” “Yes, Ryoma-sama.” The woman who answered had, apparently, been in the room the entire time; hidden among the shadows. Even as she spoke aloud, she was not seen and not sensed – Tamamo especially felt uncomfortable. Like Saizo before, she seemed to be a ninja of the utmost skill. Unlike Saizo, she did not even make herself seen even after she spoke. When Hiko continued, and mentioned the possible connection from these mystery ninja to Nohr – that was when Ryoma finally let more than just his eyes slip. His jaw clenched and he was clearly angry, yet he listened on. “... I am aware of the missing diplomatic delegations. I had dispatched Saizo to investigate them, but even he could not learn much. As for the Galdwinian delegation, I had heard stories of some of their missionaries disappearing, but we were unable to find much.” Ryoma looked as if he already very stressed – and that was when Hiko brought up Sahashi Jinnai. He closed his eyes upon hearing of Jinnai's ultimate fate, and the young Emperor took a deep breath. “... knew Sahashi-san well. My father trusted his word implicitly, as did I. To think a man such as he met an ending like that... I grieve for him, and you have my thanks for doing what you could to settle his soul.” Ryoma was calm, but clearly grieved by this news. “... Finding his daughter is paramount. She may be able to tell us more about what happened, and I would like to save her if I could.” After a while, a man came into the room, riding upon a most interesting... thing. ![]() It was a large dog-shaped machine, that walked with a mechanical clank. Upon its back was a middle-aged man with glasses and a book clutched firmly in his hands. “My Lord, you have summoned for me?” Yukimura asked as he arrived – and his eyes immediately went to Musashi, and then to Celeste, Hiko and Tamamo – and he paused, his eyes drawn to the swords on Hiko's waist. “Yukimura is my trusted advisory, and one of the most brilliant minds in Hoshido. He is also keeper of the Imperial Archive. Yukimura! I need to know... can you identify this symbol?” Ryoma walked over and handed the man the scrap of cloth from Hiko. Instantly Yukimura frowned deeply, adjusting his glasses. “... This is fascinating, but not for any good reason. This is the symbol of the Maniwa Ninja Corps. According to some of the tomes in the archive, they once served your ancestors, Ryoma-sama. However, the Emperor of the day discovered they were involved in a number of shady killings that had not been sanctioned, and they were banished. Hunted down... they were supposedly destroyed.” Yukimura frowned deeply. “That was... a very long time ago. To think they survived, and have returned...” “Returned, and have possibly sided with Nohr.” Ryoma frowned. “If these ninja still exist and have sided with Nohr...” “Then we must wipe them out, along with the rest of the Nohrian scum!” Takumi erupted, holding himself back no more. “You heard him describe the battle! Alchemy and magic were used in this corruption! It's clear Nohr is behind this. This is an act of aggression, and we must respond in kind! We should-” “Silence!” Ryoma stomped his foot. “We will not rush into a war, Takumi.” [Nohr] [Manor] Rica slowly stepped out of the carriage, his outfit changing into something fancy – but still a bit understated. He would look as if he belonged in a place full of rich and powerful people, but nothing so opulent that he would stand out. He chuckled slightly to himself as he walked up and followed Kanna as if he was her shadow. “Stay close until we get in, then we can have a bit of fun.” “I'll stay very close.” Rica could only grin. [Inn] Graham froze. Jade was here, and she was not alone – and their first attempt at fighting her had gone poorly. With archers on their side it was even worse, and with his magic knocked out... “Listen to me, okay, I just want to talk.” Graham slowly raised his hands. “I'll come with you, only if you let them go.” “Graham no!” Caitlin snapped. “Cait, please,” Graham didn't even turn to look at her. He kept his eyes on Jade. “Nobody else gets hurt. I'll come with you.” [Dali] Morrid frowned slightly beneath his bushy mustache, but he ultimately shrugged – and then he quickly smiled. “Oh, why not? I certainly can't saddle them myself, in my age. Follow me, good sir, and the rest of you please enjoy our town.” Morrid started off down the road, leading Zadkiel, but he was clearly preoccupied. [Ylisse] As Artoria jumped back, she brought up the invisible sword defensively. She watched Aku, watching the being burn slightly from where her blade had dug in. “I will not stand by and allow you to hurt my people and my land.” Artoria growled – and then Aku was a snake and lunged at her, and she had to jump back as the massive jaws narrowly missed chomping her in two. She slashed with the sword, and put distance between herself and the snake. |
![]() SHARP | |
|
|
| Crystal Rose | Dec 6 2017, 07:40 PM Post #401 |
|
GRAPPLING HOOK!
![]()
|
[Inn] Jade grinned, stepping forward. Once again she was plotting out every move in advance and knew she couldn't leave with just the man on her list. Suddenly her eyes went from Graham to Caitlin, the girl who looked most worried about him leaving with her. She grinned. "Her too. Or I kill you all" she announced. After all she needed someone to make sure Graham stayed in line. "And don't think I won't turn you all into human puppets and stop your blood in it's veins..." [Manor] Kanna couldn't help but to roll her eyes at Rica, but took his arm nonetheless, as they made it inside to the party. "Woah.....This place is impressive" Joyce couldn't help but to whisper as they walked in. She wondered if Sage had been to parties like these before with his father. |
| |
|
|
| AGodofIrony | Dec 6 2017, 07:58 PM Post #402 |
![]()
I can't see what you're imagining
|
-Nohr- Streets “No... if he was there he'd have fought them off and disappeared into the woods. I'm sure he's fine,” Edda said, confident in his son. “But let's get back to the hotel and wake your mom up.” Manor Sage looked mildly impressed at the manor, having some memories when he was younger and his father making him come to these parties, and meeting girls his age there. His father was probably trying to arrange some marriage for him, but he never realized it then. “Big...” Blake said, amazed, much like his sister. “A lot of lights...” He could feel a lot of people there too, taking Samara's hand as they headed inside. Inn Liam gripped his sword, ready to charge forward when he heard someone, a male voice singing softly. Coming up from behind Jade and the archers without looking like he had a care in the world was a tall, dark skinned man, softly singing some sort of chanty, stopping when he saw the group of people. “Ahah! Here you are Liam! And oh, the Jackson sisters, as lovely as ever! Who are your friends here?” the young man, about Liam and the other's age asked, looking around. “Is Willow here too?” “Mele...” Liam said, looking at the archers and Jade, then back to Mele. He couldn't be... “Oh am I interrupting something?” the young man, Mele asked, rubbing his chin, humming softly now, waving his finger about. From behind the archers, something started to glow, the ground shifting slightly... Mele Lei, Liam's “cousin.” Paul's kid... Dun dun dunnnnn? Dali Aiden looked to her father, who gave a reassuring smile and walked off with Morrid. Once they had some distance, Zadkiel spoke again. “Where are the others, by chance? All I've seen before you so far are young ones,” Zadkiel said. “Is there some pressing concern occupying the attention of the adults?” -Hoshido- Castle Shirasagi: Throne Room Celeste looked nervous at the mention of war with Nohr. She had little love for her country, another reason beyond her curse that she was leaving it. -Ylisse- Aku as a giant snake hissed again, rearing back before going for another lunge. This one seemed straight forward... But from the shadows a second snake head formed, striking at Artoria from another angle! |
![]() My FanFics! My Art! | |
|
|
| The Vidit of Light | Dec 6 2017, 08:01 PM Post #403 |
![]()
I'll bite your legs off!
|
Nohr Didymus paused, not sure about Zadkiel going off on his own, at least for the moment. Sticking together was probably a priority...and he didn't want to just steal the chocobos, so he had to ask, following along for a moment (or at least calling after) Zadkiel and Morrid. "Do the chocobos kn ow how to return to town on their own? We will only be going one way, I'm afraid, and we wouldn't want to rob you...and perhaps it's best if we all, for the moment, came along and helped with, or at any rate saw where the saddling would occur..." he said, attempting to ensure honesty, such as he could without jeopardizing their whole mission, as well as keep the group together a little longer (or at least they could all come up with a plan). |
|
(Insert witty/moving/inspiring phrase here) This is my car: ![]() Gas mileage is pretty bad, but traffic jams aren't a problem. | |
|
|
| Crystal Rose | Dec 6 2017, 08:44 PM Post #404 |
|
GRAPPLING HOOK!
![]()
|
[Manor] When Blake moved to take her hand Samara clutched it back tightly, eyes scanning the massive estate. There were so many people, and with this many people came an overwhelming amount of energy- both good and bad. Samara tried not to look overwhelmed, instead just closed her eyes and took a deep breath. She needed to be ready in case she had to defend Blake. [...] "So, how's it stack up?" Joyce said, leaning close to Sage as they walked. She couldn't help but feel like people were watching them, but didn't really mind either.... "I mean compared to the other stuff you've been to" From few feet away a girl in a rather large dress gave Sage a wave. Joyce raised a brow but tried not to notice. [Streets] Willow nodded, as they made their way to the inn they had been staying at. Willow rushed up the stairs and into their room, making a beeline for her parents' sleeping quarters. As expected Willow and Liam's mother was still sound asleep, obviously taking advantage of the unusually soft sleeping arrangements. "Mama!" Willow chimed, hopping on the bed and eliciting a groan from her mother. "Up up up, it's gonna be lunchtime soon" Chloe mumbled something in another language, waving her daughter off without even looking up from the pillow. Despite this Willow didn't relent. "We brought sweets!" At this Chloe looked up, eyes on Willow and then on Edda. "Isn't she in trouble?" she asked, brow raised. [Inn] Jade whipped around to face Mele, eyes wide in anger toward whoever dared interrupt her hostage situation. Apparently it was a boy, a boy who was about to get his neck snapped. "You should just walk away" Jade said simply. "Unless you want all their blood on your hands." From her spot Rue watched wide eyed. Where had Mele come from?! |
| |
|
|
| HellAvatar | Dec 7 2017, 03:29 PM Post #405 |
![]()
Mad Scientist / Head of Intel Division
|
[Hoshido] [Shirasagi Castle - Throne Room] Hiko's countenance darkened considerably when the Maniwa were mentioned. So much so that his ever-present smile disappeared completely and for once, his expression was rather grave. And there was good reason for such a dark expression. He knew of the history of the Maniwa Ninja Corps, small bits and pieces that put together a picture no one would have wanted to see. While he had never studied them himself, or ever been present while they were around since they existed even before his own time, what he did know of them was troubling, as they were often storied as boogeymen, darkness incarnate, even demons that hunted the shadows. They may have been almost successfully erased from the minds of the public, and even in some ways from the annals of history, but the Imperial line of succession suffered greatly because of them in the past. Their return did not bode well for anyone, and the picture that appeared within Hiko's mind was all the more grim of it. But there was more than just that. The disappearance of the people at the mountain pass outpost, one that overlooked a pass that took across the border from Nohr into Hoshido in a winding pathway was an important strategic location, one that allowed Hoshido oversight of the majority of the pass and allowed them to defend it rather easily. To think that all if its people simply vanished without a trace, even without a single instance of possible violence... "... It will not be so simple, Takumi-san. In fact, it is my strong belief that a hostile response is exactly what the Maniwa are hoping to achieve. And so far, they have done a fantastic job of it, if they are behind the disappearance of the personnel at the mountain pass outpost. It is a powerful strategic location, and the loss of eyes in that location makes it a dangerous weakness, which is why you have sent such a large detachment of forces in that direction. The follow-up from Nohr should be obvious, the logical continuation would be taking the mountain pass and the outpost and then use it as a staging area against us. But..." Another pregnant pause filled the room as Hiko took a look out the window, collecting his thoughts and turning back to Ryoma. "But it just feels too convenient. Too obvious. If the Maniwa are involved that's likely not what they are after. Another strange detail is that none of Nohr's forces were on the move preemptively. There are unsettling rumors about Nohr, ones that make me believe that there are currently power struggles within their hierarchy. If that is the case, Takuma-san is right in one respect: Striking now, while the iron is hot, would be at a tremendous advantage to us. But in the long term, that could also mean Hoshido's undoing. None of the supply lines would be able to stretch out into Nohr easily, and their terrain is difficult to navigate on the border. Additionally, if the forced of Hoshido make the push, it would be an obvious declaration of war, with Hoshido as the instigators. With Galdwin looking upon the two sides carefully, I doubt you want Hoshido to be the instigators of a war. "No, the likelihood is that the Maniwa are setting up for something. Eliminating the diplomats, taking that outpost, all of them signs of possible incoming armed conflict, but there is just something in that chain of events that gives me the gut feeling that there's something just under the surface that looks vastly different from the image that we see. Tell me, Ryoma-san... Could the object recovered from the Haraku-Sen mines be part of this? I was never privy to what it actually was." |
![]() Now becomes the the past in an instant — and everyone will eventually die! Destiny triumphs over human knowledge and goes mad! That is the way of things! I spit upon this frail, crazed, world! I spit upon the Second Law of Thermodynamics! ~ Desty Nova, Karmatron Theory Let them Label me! Let them swear and curse at me as I tug humanity like a bucking bull into the darkness of the unknown, revealing its secrets to the sane and driving them MAD! In ages long past, I shall be looked upon as a tyrant and a savior! As a savant and as a fool! My work shall advance humanity long past its time, throw it into the unknown future and force it to grow strong or FALL! Years from now, when I will inevitably be removed, my work shall continue to progress, because these things cannot be denied! Governments will publicly criticize my work, but privately conduct research that advances it! I shall imprint myself into the annals of history, among the stars that shine as brightly as Albert Einstein, Isaac Newton, Benjamin Franklin, Dmitri Mendeleev, Nikola Tesla, and countless others! My work will shine as brightly as any star, and I AM ITS CREATOR!!! ~ Desty Nova, Morality
| |
|
|
| 1 user reading this topic (1 Guest and 0 Anonymous) | |
| Go to Next Page | |
| « Previous Topic · RolePlay Zone · Next Topic » |
| Track Topic · E-mail Topic |
12:51 AM Jul 11
|


















12:51 AM Jul 11