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Post by Snoe on Dec 21, 2017 3:52:23 GMT
Enmel had been admiring the growth of the new city, seemingly springing to the life in the last few years... but that was relative to say the least. A few years to him was a decade or so... maybe he should start paying more attention. He did have a granddaughter now after all. The bridge to the Council hall was well above the whole of Kapali a defensible position should it come to the worst. Enmel had it constructed to exit to the docks, the public would be herded to the shelters beneath the city.
With all the reports rumors and messages abroad Enmel had a feeling that a war was coming their way. If this old Thusian had anything to say about that those fools would regret the attempt. "Precious keep up darling." He chuckled flicking a coin into the air behind him.
The girl was so young it was refreshing, though he'd have to catch up with his son on the matter... if he was brave enough to fess up. He'd first met the girl in a city that his son was responsible for establishing a crystal trade route through. It was well off the path of any Thusian settlements so Enmel had his suspicions upon meeting a half breed and hearing the stories... He'd tested the girl for the Talon bloodline, though she was just fascinated by the glowing pendant Enmel gifted her. Though all of that was after trying to corner the wild youngling.
(OOC:Feel free to do a flash back Dodo)
There was a council meeting today, Enmel had a few ideas to present especially with the odd reports of banditry in the south mires. The stories were all wrong for simple bandits though someone was trying really hard to make it seem like that. Hugo should be arriving in town today. That beast was the perfect choice to scare off-... anything. Even Enmel had never seen a Corpa that large before. Rare is any man or woman larger than a Lomalum, Cal and Amelia would react beautifully to seeing him... Though if Cal recognizes him that might not be good.
Through the doors to the Council building, a smooth domed building with four towers pinning its corners it was built to ward against siege weapons and a few large runic wards for large scale magic attacks. Enmel invest almost half of his fortune in this building, letting his fellow council members take care of the city.
Throwing open the last set of doors Enmel strode into the council chamber a cresent table with ten seats his sitting vacant "Forgive my tardiness ladies and gents, personal business came up along the road." Namely his granddaughter.
****** Meanwhile
Hugo bobbed along on his mount, the Icra groaning with each step as they went. Klaws was a bit cantankerous but it was simply hungry, and tired of hauling around the extra weight. Two prisoners bundled together like kindling, too tired to struggle. The grey giant riding face to the wind white hair and furred mantle fluttering in the wind as they came to the gates of Kapali. The Free city, all races welcome... even Corpa with a bit of apprehension to be excepted. Hugo slid off his mount and yanked the pair off along with him "Klaws, HOME!" Hugo barked an order to the massive reptile and it galloped off to the north woods to Hugo's cabin.
His captives starting up again as they were hauled to Hugo's shoulder, his other hand gripping his gleaming steel glaive. These two have been raid murdering and raping along the new villages for the last few weeks; Hugo wasn't hearing any of their pleas or claims of innocence... they were lucky he didn't eat them... but these Roe bandits weren't worth the seasoning.
The townspeople knew Hugo by now but still stared and veered away. Caution rather than fear, muttered racism instead of the first attempted lynching when he first arrived some months ago. It was wise to live well outside of the city.
Dropping off his captures at the guard barracks and gathering his coin Hugo was accosted by a small messenger carrying a missive from Talon... How did that tiny creature always know when he was returning? Hugo never knew what to think of that Thusian, though he heard the stories of that one eyed man a plenty. Underestimating him was probably the last mistake many a man had committed, still it was impossible to believe that man survived Cybbil all those years ago.
Hugo made his way to the centre of the city to the council fortress. The Whole city was as fortified as any Lomalum strong hold, nothing but the best. Hugo was almost remiss that he would never test his strength against the armies of Kapali... he'd settle for those stupid enough to attack.
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Post by DodoDestroyer on Dec 21, 2017 9:57:05 GMT
The notification of Enmel's granddaughter, and that he had another one so young. It was not uncommon for him since at his age, his children would be having some of their own. What made this little Thusian special however, is she has a human mother. A half breed. Talon's son seduced and fooled around with the girl's mother as he past on through to check on business. Which, led to her pregnancy of Precious. The half breed's genetics at the age of nineteen (which is still baby years for her kind.) gave her the appearance of a teenage human girl... With demonic features. Curved horns, clawed fingers and toes, a red hue to her skin and a long tail. The look would unsettle the humans. They are used to Thusians but not one of their own looking like the devil. Precious was... Treated unfairly as a result, she stuck to the streets to survive and stealing gold purses at night for supplies. One merchant got into the habit of leaving a care package at the address of an abandoned Street, then to find a bag of gold, sometimes worth more or less than the supplies, a few hours later (she was never good with numbers and calculations.) he never knew he was selling his wares to the creature of the coin.
Talon has heard the rumours of a Demon prowling this city and robbing gold off of those daring enough to walk through it at night. The man is smart, putting the evidence he had together that there is a possibility this could be his blood, and she is in a bad place. So heading into the city a few months back with the objective to find her, he listened to rumours about the 'monster' and decided to use himself as bait under the guise of a victim for Precious to rob from then give chase. A Thusian child couldn't be that difficult to catch right?
Well, she was. Precious took the bait swiftly... Too swift. She pounced on Talon, unknowingly her grandfather, to knock him down. She had been stalking him in the shadows for a minute or two to locate the gold purse. She cut it free from his belt with a clawed finger before scampering away fast. Her movements were unusual and it's no wonder people think the silhouette concealed by the night is a monster. The girl moves on her legs and hands like a quadrupedal but it doesn't seem to unbalance her. Movements are smooth and natural like a cat. The chase was indeed difficult, the girl did every attempt to lose him from making climbing hard to reach places and throwing obstacles in his pursuit. She was an artist at this. Each attempt at creating distance were different from the previous, and she never seemed to tire from the speedy chase. Talon must have worked out her lack of fatigue and bursts of immense agility are the works of magic. Not conscious however... They were done through reflex, being called upon at just the right moments... She must be unaware she even has magic, let alone doing it at all.
Fifteen minutes that felt like hours, he finally corned the wild half breed when her mana reserves were spent. She... actually hissed at the Thusian! The girl was truly as feral as she appeared. The act of a cornered animal defending itself from a threat. He was half worried she would pounce and attack him... But he instead sees her shoulders and head slump in defeat before tossing the purse back to him. Now she was bargaining to be let go. Wild she maybe, but unintelligent she was not. The girl was dexterous, fast, Stealthy and had the smarts to boot. Talon laughed at it all much to Precious' confusion. He never had a chase like that in years! She really fought for her freedom there. What transpired next was him gaining her trust, hoping she wouldn't regenerate enough mana to make a break for it. A test for the Talon bloodline with a Neth crystal necklace led to her snatching it up and fidgeting with it in fascination... She had an attraction to shinies it seems, but the crystal reacted slightly to her unconscious usage of mana. There's a large chance now she indeed is his granddaughter. It was good enough for him and after some more persuading, Precious joined her grandfather back to Kapali.
------
The coin that Talon tossed into the air quickly disappears before it hits the ground. A glimpse of the wild half breed's tail tip wraps around it before pulling it towards it's owner. It was more than enough for Precious to pick up her pace until she was beside him, her tail wrapping lightly around the calf of his leg in affection as she walks... Well, crawls with him. She is careful this time, she wouldn't want Grandpa to trip again. She stays out of plain sight, still wary from all the verbal abuse and shunning from the humans back in the market. She has grown incredibly shy to all strangers as a result of this treatment. It took some time for her to come out of her Grandpa's home in daylight. She also seems to dislike clothing that's restrictive. The ones given to her were soon teared at the arms and legs for the freedom of movement and familiarity. It will take years if not decades for Precious to grow out of this animalistic nature.
Upon her Grandpa entering the room full of all sorts of people, she unwraps her tail on him and quickly darts around his legs and behind some furniture at the walls to remain unseen, quick as a fox but as quiet as the shadows. She is sure nobody noticed her coming in, the pros to four limb movement is you're always keeping low to the ground. She peers over just enough to make it very subtle and so she can witness the meeting commence.
-----
Amongst the council sitting in this meeting, some stand out to be allies and close friends to the elderly Thusian. One human here he recognises as his former second in Command, now General of Kapali's army; Amelia Athuement. It's been some years since he recruited her into his inner circle for the expedition of this colony and the lost ruins, when it was just her and baby Alec she guarded over days after Darmantine fell. Her age only shows through a few lines in the skin around her eyes and the greying of her platinum hair at the temples, though her steadfast posture and attentive expression is evident to prove she still has the abilities and stamina of somebody half her age. She grew a reputation here, both good and bad. Good because her military experience, leadership and lack of hesitation when it comes to the hard choices earned her respect among her peers and made Kapali's army a force to be reckoned with. Bad because of her race. Not everybody is happy that a human is in charge of the state's main defence... They are skeptic that she would cause it collapse just as her ancestors did to Mordugrad. Amelia couldn't care less about the racist views on her, she is always busy with more important matters. Knights and warriors living and visiting the capital seek to challenge the General to a duel. Her power over the fire element and unique fighting style, which came to be named the 'Dancing Blade', makes her a worthy opponent for a milestone challenge. Some she refused, but the ones she accepted, left challengers leaving with wounded bodies and prides. The sabre used never leaves her side.
Young Alec grew into a strong and charismatic man, much like his father. He grew Amelia's passionate will and determination, but not her discipline. He is headstrong and a tad reckless, but raised as somebody who is confident in finding his destiny as a soldier himself. Enmel offered Amelia to pull some strings to give the lad a headstart in life, to which she refused. She built her career from nothing and learned valuable lessons from it. She would like Alec to have the same experience. She inevitably fell in maternal love with him, adopting him as her own son and blood during the sixteen years she watched over him from birth. They only had one another when their homelands were lost, raised him as a baby and had many activities together, including sparring and meditation on his magic. It was eventually going to happen. Some would say he's the few people the cold General has a soft spot for. Regardless, he is not present at this meeting, he never is. Amelia would doubt he'd have the patience for it.
When Enmel enters the room, Amelia is sat down in her seat with her second in Command, a Lomallum trusted by the Urool family, sat beside her. She makes eye contact with the Thusian, silently telling him that there is unrest and growing tension among the council. No matter how bad things will get, Enmel can always count on Amelia's unwavering loyalty to stand by his side.
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Post by Raz on Dec 21, 2017 18:57:09 GMT
An odd Lomalum is sitting at the council table going over a list with her reading glasses affixed to her large snout. Unlike other Lomalum, whom are both hairless and featherless, this one boasted an extravagant mane of violet and obsidian colored feathers. This relatively new addition to the council was House Urool representative Servilia Urool, cousin to the powerful twins that lead the family. "So, what is next after this?" She murmured absentmindedly as her eyes ran down the list that she had prepared for today. Next she was to deliver a message to General Amelia Athuement and her boy, Alec. This was a common occurrence for her. She often received the task of being the messenger since some of this information is rather sensitive and the other reason is because they can ensure that it'll get to where it needs to be if she delivers it.
Calthok Urool may be legate of the northern defense legion but he had a soft spot for the human General and her adopted son. She hadn't really spoken to them very often because of her numerous duties but they had seemed pleasant enough, even if the General was a bit gruff. She chuckled quietly to herself, "Perhaps that's why he likes her." The parchment held the House Urool seal in red wax. It also came with a small green bottle that boasted of the quality of its brew. It was a sour strawberry lemonade that you could only get from the Roe-Lian lands across the sea. "He must've paid a bundle to have it imported." She thought before looking down to the next item she had to deliver. This one was from Koa and was addressed to Enmel. These were uncommon but she did sometimes have to deliver Koa's messages and packages for him. She supposed it must be some new business venture or some such. This letter was sealed as well but the seal did not have the House seal but rather Koa's personal seal. Odd, but it would probably be best not to pry into the business of her house's Patriarch. More for her peace of mind than any actual threat of punishment. Koa's private life was a scary thing sometimes. She could still remember how but her cheeks had burned when she had seen what was in one of his packages before.
She sighed and looked to the last item on her list, it was time for the weekly survey the Lomalum garrison here in the city. Had it really been a week already? Well it shouldn't be that much of a pain since the men that were stationed here were handpicked by her cousin to ensure the city's safety. The man sitting beside the General was the Major that had been instructed to lead them. He was a professional by all standards so there was little chance that anything would actually need addressing her as it hadn't last week. He was a stern fellow but an excellent leader. He was the one that had welcomed her to the city. His name is Kuga Eisbrecher if she recalled correctly.
Once that was all over and done with she'll be free for the rest of the day. She was looking towards that eagerly, perhaps she can finish her map of the city! So far since she arrived, each day had a number of appointments and meetings she was needed to attend. All of them involved House Urool's interests in this city. Just this morning she's struck a deal with the local fishermen to sell their pearls in bulk to traders from Duruma. Their prices were exorbitant at first, so much so that she thought the Lomalum guild master that had come with her would faint. But as was usual she managed to bring the price down significantly from three Kapali silver per pearl to one point two. This shaved the price down for each pound of pearls from 2268 to 906 Kapali silver pieces. She wasn't entirely cheating those fishermen but she certainly wasn't lining their pockets either. But it's what she had to do. After all if she didn't get a better price from the fishermen then the revenue these traders made from the sale of the pearls to Lomalum craftsmen wouldn't be enough to facilitate another trading venture. That would mean that it would strangle the burgeoning pearl crafting industry back home which was growing quite popular among the noble ladies and among the military's officers. Given Cal's proclivity to wear the extravagant on occasion it's possible he's partially responsible for the craze.
Well since Amelia was already here she might as well deliver her message while she waits. She scoots her chair back and stands up with her satchel hanging over her shoulder. She smiles politely as she steps over to the aged general. She dips her head respectfully, "General, Major." She says acknowledging both of them. "My cousin Calthok has another message for you." She reaches into her satchel and removes the letter and the bottle it's attatched to. "He had one made for Alec as well." She fishes the other note out and sets it on the table for her. She glances to the Major, "It seems we have another inspection due this afternoon. I shall be over promptly." She promises before walking over to Enmel's seat and sets down the note addressed to him. She then returns to her seat just as the doors open to show Enmel and a curious creature followed him inside. It looked like a Thusian girl she couldn't guess the age, Thusians all seemed to look perpetually young. Even Enmel and he was ancient! "Good day, Master Enmel. Who's this you have with you?"
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Post by Deaths on Dec 22, 2017 7:47:01 GMT
The pub smelled...well like a pub. Armore looked to his left where Alec sat, a grin on his friends face. Why wouldn't he been smiling he mad it no secret he had a little thing for a human named Iresmel. Who happen to sit across from them enjoying the drink and their company. Next to her was a Thusian girl, who's eyes were telling Armore a thing or two about later tonight. Waiting for the moment Alec takes a gulp of his ale Armore slaps him hard on the back causing the young squire to choke a bit. "And you wanted to sit in a dirty field swinging a sword." He teases Alec's need for constant training. "See I'm always right, when have I ever let you down?" Armore ask raising his mug to his mouth pausing before he takes a drink. "Actually," He pauses with a small laugh "Don't answer that." The group continues to talk and laugh the minutes turn to hours and Armore pulls out his pocket watch with a sigh. "I got to go," He says crestfallen "Responsibilities call, I am the defender of this city after all." He continues his false sadness while standing from his table. "Remember what we tell your mom if she questions us. I bothered you to hang out, you said no." He smiles at Alec dreading the retaliation of Lady Athuement. "You better put some clean clothes on you smell like a brewery." He waves to the table winks at the young red skinned temptress and heads to the door.
Walking into the crowded streets Armore begins to stretch while in contemplation of his next course of action. A detailed map of the city forms into his head, he knew every street, every sewer entrance, and every shortcut. He thinks to himself while bending over to touch his toes. "If I make a right down Talon road, a left on Talon avenue, and then go down Talon drive..." He stands straight up and smirks, normally this route in mid day traffic would take someone fifteen minutes, should take him about three. "Then I can get dressed and rush over to meeting, I'll be thirty five to forty five seconds late." That seemed acceptable in his mind he begins to hum to himself as he charges up the mana in his legs. He begins to bounce in place the bounces become faster and faster the energy was filling him, and in that moment he was running free.
Off the speedster goes, the world around him slows as he ducks and dives through traffic. His forward shield up at full strength last week he hit a turn to hard spun out and smashed into a fish mongers hut. As everyone knows a fish monger is a dangerous enemy to make so Armore has been avoiding that side of town, until he raises enough money to pay for the damage. He turns hard right on Talon road and then the alcohol hits. Armore's increased speed increases his metabolism and alcohol or poison burn through him quickly, but that means they hit him when he's running. His steps begin to sway as he feels the dizziness coming over him. One wrong step and then crash, his slams into a stall of one of the local merchants. Armore's body tumbles over itself the shield absorbs the blow but he loses his footing and hits the ground hard. Tumbling over and over Armore lands relatively softly, it seems something stopped his fall. The miasma of fish fills his nostrils, he opens his eyes to comfirm the scent. Rolling over onto his back he hears familair screaming, looking up he reads the sign above him. A blue fish with the words 'Gestappi's fishery'..."Fuck." Is all Armore can weakly say as Mr. Gestappi comes screaming at him in his foreign accent a wooden spoon gripped threateningly in his hand.
"Wazza marro you?!" The fish monger begins to yell, he was a fat man around six foot in height. Most of the hair on his head was gone except for a brave few. His mustache sat on his upper lip at one time it may have been red like his few head hairs, but now it's grey. He continues yelling as Armore stands up looking the man in the eye. "You break my wall, and you no pay. I use my own home, my father, brothers and me built as a new shop. YOU COME HERE AND BREAK IT!" He screams smacking Armore across the head with a loud smack. "You are a devil sent to curse my family, my wife prays every day to be rid of you." The old mans fire starts to die out as he slowly becomes calmer, he looks over the damage it wasn't as bad as it sounds but the old man is tired. "My heart can't take you anymore, one more of these," He sends a second smack across the top of Armore's head. "One more of these, and I won't be able to smack you around." Another brutal smack this one lands on his cheek leaving a red welt, the force of the hit breaks the spoon. The splintering half hits the ground in a deathly silence Mr. Gestappi breaks that silence with a scream of horror as if he just found a dead body. "Now you break my mother's spoon! You are an animal, BEAST, BEAST!" He falls to his knees completely inconsolable, this new cry causes Mrs. Gestappi to come rushing out of the house. She was a carbon copy of her husband but with more hair and less mustache. "MOMMA! MOMMA! Why has this devil cursed us!" He yells as his wife embraces him, the two begin to cry together.
"I'm sorry, I'll beg my boss to pay for this I swear." He slowly backs away from the others and begins sprinting away. That...incident cost him too much time, he can't go home and change he has to go straight to the meet. The new plan was to enter through the back take a servants uniform and act like nothing happened. Running through the streets and alleys Armore's mood was improving ignoring the smacks he received and instead of think about the fun times with Alec. Alec was a nice man the first person to ever do something nice for Armore without expecting something in return. Hell him being half Corpa didn't seem to bother him too much. Armore was lucky many other halfbreeds looked more Corpa than he did. His teeth are sharp but that is easy to hide. His claws weren't to noticeable and they only really grew when he felt that hunger. The Corpa curse hits him just as hard as others, the want no the need to feast on flesh was indescribable. After Bryce freed him he swore to never eat meat of any kind ever again, after living the life of a cow and it would be to hypocritical. Running through town he say the giant known as Hugo. Just the mere thought of his name lights his blood on fire. A mischvious idea cross his mind and he begins to channel a bomb into his left middle finger. It begins to glow blue as he gets closer and closer to the beast. He speeds up hoping Hugo wouldn't be able to see him. As his target looks down to read a letter, Armore leaps twisting in the air he taps Hugo lightly on the nose. "Fifteen minutes." He thinks to himself setting a timer on his bomb, this bomb was tiny barely stronger than a static shock. The bomb was planted and unnoticeable to the naked eye, once planted there was nothing anyone could do until it explodes. Fifteen minutes would be sometime during the meeting, it'll be hilarious a small pop will be heard and some smoke will rise from Hugo's nose.
Running backwards laughing to himself Armore admires his handy work, turning a few corners he begins to slow down to a casual jog. Walking into the back door and passed security Armore enters the servants area, grabbing a black suit used by the majority of servants he scrambles to clean himself up. Confidant in his hygiene talents, Armore slicks his hair back inhales and enters the meeting room with a silver tray in his hands, carrying a tea pot and cups. He makes his rounds to each council member, he does his best to avoid Lady Athuement. Though he feels her eyes burning a hole through him he doesn't acknowledge it. She is the last to be served except for the Lomalum standing next to her. "Madam Athuement, is there anything I can serve you today?" He puts on his best smile, his posture is perfect. "I have teas from all over the world, I personally recommend the Hibiscus tea." He continues to smile as he places a cup on the table and produces the tea bag. "The harvest was perfect this year and with a small amount of orange blossom honey will make the flavors dance on your tongue." Before she can answer the doors open Master Talon has entered along with his grand daughter. Quickly he pours the hot water into her cup, and prepares the tea. "Good evening Master Talon." He chirps up happy for a distraction, even while he he looks away from the cup his hands move with years of experience. The cup is made perfectly and will taste heavenly, once the Madam drinks it. "Forgive me Madam, but I must tend to Master Talon." He walks to Talons seat and pours his usual, he smiles bows and moves to the edge of the table. Unbeknownst to Armore he was in striking distance of a certain feral girl.
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Post by Snoe on Dec 24, 2017 1:34:27 GMT
Hugo, was going through his things when the stench of booze fish and the outline of a man blew passed him. Even daring to lay hand on him... Though this movement was new it wasn't unlike the Corpan elders' drift. Any Corpa lucky enough to survive long enough eventually learned to move with magic fuelled haste... though some amplified such skills with training... That caster seemed to be doing something a little different.
Hugo managed to catch the maneuver in hand. A light magical pulsing before diminishing... best find the caster before it took effect. Most spells died with the caster after all; it was now a matter of following the stench. It was conveniently leading Hugo to the council building, narrowing the possible offenders down... was this spell some form of assassination or method to attack the council by using a mule to smuggle in a spell passed the wards?
The giant Corpa pondered the possibilities while entering the building tracking the scent which had become diminished... a change in clothes. Hmmmm, a spy at worse, a Corpan terrorist next, or some fool looking to shame Hugo. The scent rounded into the servants corridors but seemed to waft back from the audience hall before the council chamber itself. The culprit was likely waiting their to trigger his spell.
Hugo set his heavy Steel glaive in the appropriate rack within the audience chamber as instructed, the guards would not allow any but the councillors or the general herself to be armed within the chambers... especially one such as Hugo. These Roe were rather rude... but they held little love for Corpa and short lives that held long standing hatreds. It was not unexpected.
****Meanwhile
Enmel smirked on his way to his seat young Servilia asking after his shadow of a Granddaughter "That is my Precious little Talon." Taking pride in the word play before practically cartwheeling over the council table and into his seat with the grace of a feather "My Grand Daughter Precious, she's shy so... Amelia... no scary faces." Calling out the stern generals ease of intimidation. Picking up the letter from Koa with a smirk "Naughty Lom... Ill read that later."
Enmel looking to his fellows, accepting the Tea from the half-blooded Corpan boy whispering "If you're going to go fishing Armore, I suggest doing it in Scilio Whiskey not Hashens Ale." The Thusian having an encyclopedic knowledge of the liquors flowing through the bars of this town... and many others. Scilio being a near scentless drink, Hashens reeking of spiced hops.
The Thusian picked up the papers laid out for his perusal upon arrival, manifests, treasury and trade records among the majority. Glad handed his fellows as they inquired about his latest ventures and reading these reports, paying particular attention to that of Amelia's scouting reports. One of the court servants entering from the audience hall and relaying that Hugo had arrived. "Good, give me a moment then bring him in." Whispering the instructions.
"Councillors, I've something to say that should take precedence over the southern expansion." Enmel's words calling a silence to the murmured discussions, the fat Ikesk Norshur jiggling to a stop and regarding the Thusian intently... a rare sight considering that Norshur never seemed to stop talking. "I think we've got an organized party trying to bait us into devoting a full troop to scout the Ilga Mire to the south, from the reports its bandits but the attacks are too clean, and the position is suspicious so I've commissioned a hunter to scout the area rather than commit Amelia's men to action." Enmel gestured to the door.
The giant strode into the council hall, his steps smooth despite his weight stopping to bow with bent knee, Enmel speaking up "I present Hugo a Corpan exhile and currently the best Bounty hunter in the Free State. That said I would like to take a consensus on the matter."
Hugo raises his hand to pause the court politely. His hard eyes narrowing on the halfblood Corpa and his nose confirming the scent "My Apologies Master Talon, but if I may." Enmel noticed the aim of Hugo's stare and turned to Armore with a 'what the hell did you do?' kind of smirk.
"Go ahead Hugo I wanna hear this." Having heard of Alec's and Armore's nights out this might be an interesting story, though the rest of the council may begrudge the Thusian for indulging a possibly frivolous interruption.
"That young servant, has cast a spell on my person suspiciously and I'd like to have a word with him." Hugo intending on getting an answer his way without bothering the council too much. Enmel had a sense that Hugo thought the worst and wasn't going to be asking the boy nicely.
"I can see what he did from here." The Thusian focusing on the feeling of magic humming just below notice on Hugo's person, matching Armore's aura. Thusian's were good at this sort of thing even though they were the bottom of the barrel in terms of power output. "And No you can't skin him for answers, the boy placed a prank bomb on you because he's an idiot." Enmel quite literally saving Armore's hide. Hugo would happily skin another Corpa for fun let alone a prank.
The bomb popped off startling a few of the council Hugo barely flinching. "I see...apologies." Hugo bow apologetically for interrupting the council.
Enmel starting up "Armore after the meeting you and Hugo should talk over a meal." He whispered. It was pure mischief on his part but it might be amusing to see the boy sweat a little "Anyway back to the task, yay or nay shall we send Hugo and a group of his choosing to scout the Ilga Mire? Or spend the manpower rather than the coin to put down what is ASSUMED to be bandits?"
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Post by DodoDestroyer on Dec 24, 2017 4:12:00 GMT
Precious pokes up a head just a little more to look at the funny looking grey person who asked Grandpa about her. When the grey one looked at her, she immediately ducks back down again to hide. She silently wishes the room wasn't light, else the shadows would have helped her to hide better. From the obstructed view of her hiding place, the Lomallum could just see a gleeful flick of her tail when Grandpa mentions her by the name her Mama called her every day. Her attention moves onto a newcomer. He looked like a human but... He felt different in some ways. He got pretty close to her hiding spot, at least he didn't notice her... Her keen eye for prizes spots a small coin purse on the back of his belt. Her impulsive instincts overtake rational thought as she reaches a hand out in attempts to snatch it.. All it takes is a deft movement of a hand, a quick cut of the tie attaching to his person and it drops silently into her hand that retracts back in the blink of an eye. She is quite happy with the minor score, despite it stinking of strong fermentation.
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Amelia eyes the Lomallum as she reaches. Her gaze makes anybody feel naked, that she sees right through you and any ruse you may pull. She takes the letters politely and stores them on the inside of her coat with a nod, she hides her delight to have received another letter and a bottle of alcohol from him. She rarely ever drinks if at all, so she dedicated a shelf to store each gifted bottle. She will find something in return. "I will deliver this over to Alec. Thank you." She says curtly, the faint remains of a Darmantine accent lace her words.
It is then another comes her way, the half-corpan Armore. It's very clear that Amelia has had bad blood with the Corpa after their conflicts and being directly responsible for the fall of her original home. She does not display this distaste as others do but rather is wary of them, even a half breed. Nonetheless, she respects that he is one of Alec's close friends. She does wish that he would not drag her foster son into distractions, however. While he gushes out the pleasantries of delivering the tea to her and Major Kuga she watches him with an ever perceptive eye. She picks up that he is trying a little harder with her than usual, like he's covering up for something he has done or making it up to her in advance. Though now is not the time for a minor confrontation as the meeting begins.
The meeting commences. The regular address of the 'bandits' has been a topic for some time and how it should be dealt with. Amelia suggested scouting before the decision is made which allowed them to make a more thoughtful solution. Though Enmel appears to have created one as usual and on cue, the massive Corpa steps through. The council are no doubt surprised and shocked about this, even Kuga's hand itches close to his weapon while Amelia double checks the location of her sabre as a precaution, but remains rational and trusting Enmel decision-making.. Precious peers over once more to look at the huge man in fascination. She has never encountered any race other than Thusian and Human. This is all new to her! She has an uncanny sense for detecting people's intentions.. While a bit brutish, she knows some good are within his. She smiles lightly at the huge man and giving a small wave, completely devoid of fear or caution.
After the little bomb prank, which scores an disapproving sigh from Amelia in Armore's direction, the main topic comes to a head. Precious begins to peer more and more out of her spot, tail tip wrapped around the half-corpan's purse. She like the weight of this one, it means a decent amount of coins. Her interest in her Grandpa's talking grows, even though she doesn't understand some of it. The council is silent for a few seconds after Enmel lays down his choices before Amelia speaks up. "I approve. We need what troops that are not in the field in the keep. The bandits seem too organised and could be trying to lure our men out and leaving us less defended." She declares in her usual mannerisms. "One of our scouts will lead you to their last known location. Should this course of action suit the other members of council."
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Post by Raz on Dec 27, 2017 14:04:21 GMT
Servilia was shocked at the first mention of a granddaughter. It was widely known that Enmel had sired a few sons and daughters in his time but rarely does he mention them. Now bringing a granddaughter to a council meeting? That is a first for him. Despite Enmel's youthful appearance you could tell that he was a man well travelled. This youngling on the other hand, she seems as though she's just been plucked from her play pen. Servilia chuckled as the curious little creature poked her head out from behind her grandfather's cloak. She must be shy because she ducked her head back just was quick as she could. During this brief bit of excitement the serving boy had been making his rounds. He was a human to her eyes aeast, however, she has no idea as to his name. Too many events and meetings to spend time getting to know everyone whom works for Enmel. Though she does still try, it helps to get to know the common folk whom council decisions will affect. The boy approached her, offering a wide variety of teas in a polite fashion as always. She accepted an oolong tea which she had come to enjoy greatly here. Yet despite her enjoyement of the drink, she couldn't help but wish that she could have some more of that coffee drink she had during her visit to a Roe-Lian estate here in the city. The bitter taste and the energy that comes with it was always enough to fuel her for the rest of the day! Perhaps she should ask Enmel if it could be added to the drinks available during these functions. "Thank you," She said to the serving boy before he moved off to the next councilor.
Enmel gracefully flips over the table leaving his granddaughter behind. This was normal for him. At first she had thought maybe he had gone mad when she first saw him do it. But no, she quickly learned that this old Thusian was quite the spry thing whenever the opportunity presented itself. Before all eyes in the room fell onto the exposed "Precious " a servant approaches Enmel and says that someone is awaiting an audience. This was most peculiar, normally these meetings were conducted just by the members of the council. Today was proving to be quite eventful already. Enmel spoke up and she listened intently. She had read these reports in preparation for this meeting so she was aware of most of the details of the attacks. They were far to clean for bandits. She'd seen the work that bandits were responsible for and precision is not the word that comes to mind. She looked to the door and watched as a giant of a man entered the room. Her eyes widened slightly but she did not show any other overt signs of surprise. This was a Corpan. Why was he allowed in these chambers? Surely Enmel of all people would understand that Corpans were a savages and could not be trusted. Her fingers touched the hilt of her blade nervously, she'd be no good in a fight against this creature but at least she'd have something. Then he began to speak in the common tongue with surprising elegance. This didn't set her at ease so much as make him seem more sinister than before. A Corpan that could wear a mask of civility was a dangerous being indeed.
From things proceeded to get stranger and stranger. The giant accused the serving boy of planting a bomb on his person only for Enmel to dissuade the man's concerns. A pop occurred along his nose, sounding like those firecrackers she's heard during the night. After this odd distraction Enmel posed the question again. "Well, coin is always replaceable manpower is not." She began. "This city's economy is booming at the moment so spending more on protection in this instant would make the most sense. However," She looked from Enmel to Hugo apologetically. "I have some reservations about our bounty hunter. I do not know much about you Master Hugo beyond your name and your profession. And given the rather tense state of affairs between the Corpa and the rest of the world I'm wary to put all of my trust in you just yet. You may be an exile but I cannot be certain of your loyalties. This isn't intended as an insult or a dismissal of your skills." She paused and looked to Amelia, "I know that we should keep the majority of our forces at home but perhaps we could spare a soul from your guard to ensure the mission runs smoothly. Perhaps that young man you've been training for so long. He's been wishing for an opportunity to get outside of the city hasn't he?"
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Post by Deaths on Dec 27, 2017 19:46:38 GMT
"No!" Armore suddenly shouts at Enmel something he's never done before, a lose of control was rare for him especially towards his boss. Regaining his composure his face red from a mix of embarrassment and anger at the mere suggestion he spend time with this Hugo. "My apologies Master Talon, but I refuse to break bread with those that kept me in shackles." He starts to walk away when he feels a tug near his belt. Still in the middle of his anger he uses his lightening quick reflexes to charge his pointer finger, swinging his arm back he connects with the bag leaving another bomb similar in strength with the prank from earlier. This one was a bit more powerful, it would be enough to cause a louder pop and destroy the purse spilling the coins all over the floor. He decided to give the target a bit of breathing room, one minute should be enough time for the bomb to go off. Excusing himself Armore moves towards the back of the room, standing in the background hoping to be left alone while the council talked and talked like they loved to do.
He silently watched and listened, every word they spoke carried a lot of weight. Though they say one they mean another Armore focused putting faces to the voices. Studying their body language every detail matter in his reports to Bryce. Speaking of Bryce he was three days late reporting in, luckily this meeting happened it had been a boring month for the most part he hasn't gotten much useful information. His job as a courier was a good cover letting him leave town for days on end whenever he needed. The biggest fly in the ointment was this Hugo character, hopefully Bryce knew who this man was. He certainly was a strong being, noble born judging by the way he carries himself and the accent he speaks with. "Should have used a bigger bomb." Armore thinks to himself while his eyes constantly move
A Lomalum female speaks up, she's a newer voice in the council Armore never did remember her name. She was out of her element talking about Hugo. It was clear she was afraid of the monster, she's probably never seen one in person before. The naivety was cute, refreshing compared to the other council members who's words were always carefully measured. Struggling not to laugh at the poor girl, Armore started to like the girl until she brought up Alec. Armore's face turns to stone as she suggest Alec go on this mission, he wasn't ready for something like this. Armore couldn't help himself, next thing he knew he was trying his best to stop that suggestion in his own way of course. "Prince Alec can't go on this mission. It sounds like fun, and Lady General Amelia will not stand for that kind of nonsense." Armore speaks up drawing attention to himself again he continues to speak while leaning up against the wall. "If you need a hammer you might as well use the biggest hammer you can find." Armore continues finished taking shots at Amelia. "If they are bandits lord Hugo, will kill and eat them." The name and title are smothered in snark. "If they are more than bandits he will kill and eat him, or they will kill him instead." His voice is serious and level as he finishes his speech. "The way I see it there is no down side for us." He cracks a smile as his second bomb goes off with a louder bang causing everyone to turn their collective heads towards the source of the noise. "My apologies for the second bomb, there seems to be a cut purse in the chamber." He laughs to himself staring at his victim.
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Post by DodoDestroyer on Dec 30, 2017 15:31:02 GMT
Amelia just raises a hand to stop Armore from going on into a babble about Alec. Despite him using the least practical way of being against it, she appreciates that another thinks sending him into the field prematurely as well when she sees through his hidden concern. "Alec is not military." She begins to explain to the short Lomallum. "While I could advise his place in the mission, it wouldn't be professional of me. He's still training his magic and skill, the former being in juvenile state. I have already stated I am putting one of my scouts in your party, one that knows the way to their camp and useful information about it. They will aid you in your mission. If you wish, I will provide one of my soldiers to travel along, but I will not send somebody whose immaturity could compromise this mission." She is quick to shut down this suggestion, the council members show no surprise so it's probably safe to say they know of the General's bluntness. She is also not saying it out of over protection. She legitimately feels Alec is not ready for a mission under the council's decision. Or, she would have suggested this as good field experience for him.
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Precious pays no attention to this gathering of people. The purse weighty of coins has all of her attention. She is careful not to look at them in the sight of her mark. Grandpa has many shiny things back at his home. Treasures, gold, jewellery. She wants to add these to the collection! She holds it in her hands while her tail deftly unties the string tie... For it to explode in her hands. She yelps from the shock and sting of the bomb. The coins clink as they spread across the floor. Precious immediately dashes on four limbs with deft speed behind Grandpa's chair. She growls at the chuckling man, seeing nothing but mischievous and slightly devious intentions inside of him. "BAD!!" She shouts angrily at him, and she does not just meaning the bomb. Her hands are singed while the tail curls closely around her body, which quivers and while she is angry, there are tears forming in the young half breed's eyes from this horrible action.
From what Armore can see, he sees that what appreciation Amelia had for him a moment ago was killed by this reckless act. "Leave. Now." She calmly and forcefully demands of him, using the little patience she has left for him to ask him first. She is not a fan of meetings, and the immaturity Armore is showing is not helping what should be a civilised discussion on actions to be taken.
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Post by Snoe on Dec 31, 2017 5:06:06 GMT
Hugo watched the reaction his presence inspired in the councilors wasn’t unexpected in the least. The halfbreed viewed him with nothing short of contempt. Gauging the boy he’d have guessed second class citizen... or former slave. His breeding likely kept him from being food but that wasn’t a good life to say the least... unless one lives under the Raven sigil. Raum family weren’t exactly traditional their slaves and cattle were exceptionally priveledge and under the delusion that it was an honor to serve.
A small adorable girl hiding in the corner waved at him... it was oddly the kindest greeting he’d recieved in months. Hugo smiled gently and subtly returned a soft nod. Part Thusian by the look of those horns and tail.
These thoughts and the wary eyes on him solidified the fact that his lineage would be best kept secret. Cybbil was too well known and a true monster, being of her blood was a boon in his homeland but a curse everywhere beyond the capital city. No shortage of enemies... except for the one eyed Thusian whom had already knew he was The Grey Titan of Latante. A secret that wouldn’t last under scrutiny... the General Amelia was familiar to him; but he couldn’t place the memory.
Enmel suggested the Halfbreed and he discuss things oover a meal. An amicable idea although unlikely, Hugo was less than pleased with the attempted shaming and less impressed with his lack of decorum. A servant interrupting the council with his ‘opinion’ valid as it may be he did not have a right to speak so openly among those that ruled this state... Poor etiquate grated on the giant’s nerves. Yet his own distaste aside he was not about to speak until it was his time to do so.
Enmel and the other Councilors had come to a descision. Hugo was indeed going to be moving on the bandits and a scout was going to be sent along with him. Hopefully they wouldn’t slow him down or worse get in the way. Hugo bowed politely and began to move from the room when another explosion and the clinking of coins, the girl scurrying behind Enmel in a fit. That BOY again... this was uncalled for... a complete disregard for this office and its council. Theft or otherwise... Hugo grit sighed a dissapproving look peirciing Armore as Hugo took his leave.
Enmel on the other hand stiffened after witnessing what happened, his claws pressing into the arm of his chair as he gripped hard in an effort not to overreact. The one eye Thusian zeroed in on Armore after Amelia told him to leave. His granddaughter cowering behind him “You okay sweetheart?” Enmel turned his attention to Precious for a moment checking her over as he ran through the options in his mind.
After seeing to her singed hands; giving her one of his cards ‘hydra’ and speaking the word. The card melted into a warm light soothing the pain and healing any damage. “Feel better? You don’t have to steal anymore, I want you to return his coins... after he apologizes.” Patting her on the head before drawing a second card and darting for Armore. Circling behind him pressing the card to his back “Numb.” With that spell Armore was going to have more than just a little trouble walking let alone running away. “Council dismissed, I’ve got a punishment to meet out, apologies.” Enmel spoke to his fellows.
“I can put up with your antics once in a while, but this was a step too far Armore.” Enmel moved to look the boy in the eye “I want you to apologize to my Granddaughter.” Giving Armore time to argue or agree “And to further make up for that you’re fired... and your new job is watching out for Precious. Or you could go scouting with Hugo, I’m sure he could use your help.” Enmel demoted Armore with a passive expression, giving him a choice that wasn’t much of a choice, and then patting him on the head.
“Sweety, Armore is now going to be your butler, meaning he does what you say... within reason ofcourse, I have some other business to attend to darling so you have the afternoon to yourself.” Enmel handed her a golden key “If you want to go home this opens the door and you still have the coins I gave you if you’re hungry, Armore should know some good places to eat.” Enmel soon trotted off after giving his Granddaughter a hug.
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Post by Raz on Dec 31, 2017 22:16:02 GMT
Servilia sighed as the dramatics of the servant played out once more with a further explosion. It seems that this serving boy has decided to take it upon himself to disrupt state business not once but twice on the same day. She pitied the poor girl who's hand was likely stinging from the pain. Though from the look on both Amelia's face and Enmel, perhaps she should be pitying the boy. She removed her reading glasses and put them away in a little pouch. "I see that our meeting has gone from state affairs to a circus performance." She had been prepared to go over the numerous other finer details of the day but she had not the patience for this charade and it appeared, neither did General Amelia. She had not particularly cared whether Alec went with Hugo or did not. The boy had merely not seen much proper field experience and this seemed like a well enough place to start. But if Amelia wished to keep him here then it was no skin off her nose. That Armore boy certainly wasn't doing himself any favors, he had a rather cushy job being in Enmel's employ. Now he'll be in for quite the unfortunate time as Precious' butler. Oh that can only end in a spectacle even worse than this one. "Well since my concerns have been more or less ignored and we've all reached a consensus on sending someone out to investigate at the very least, I believe our meeting has come to an end." And indeed her conclusion had been correct as Enmel soon dismissed them. She stood up bowed her head to those at the meeting, "As always it's been a pleasure seeing you all again." She smiled and gave a slight wave to Precious. "Good day, I hope you enjoy your time in the city." She says kindly before turning and leaving the council chambers. From there it'd be a short trip to the Lomallum barracks for this weeks review.
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Post by DodoDestroyer on Jan 2, 2018 0:46:05 GMT
Precious shakes her head to Grandpa's question of her being okay. She just looks down at her still hurting hands. She holds the card in both hands and listens to his word as she watches the symbol. Her pained expression becomes one of awe as she watches the card melt into a warm glow. Her hands no longer hurt, the display was mesmerising. She got a good look of what was on the card before it did melt. It is a similar symbol as the one on her jewelled ribbon tied to her tail. "Hydra?" She asks Enmel curiously, she has the urge to recreate this. The healing glow has caught her full attention.
Her fascination soon washes away as Grandpa softly scolds her for stealing from the bad man. She slumps, tail dips down and looks to the ground as she is perched with a pouty expression. The posture of a child being told off, she nods meekly in agreement to apologise whole side eyeing the culprit in question.
Upon the dismissal of the meeting, General Amelia stands straight from her seat and with a short bow of her head to the council, she walks out briskly out of the room with Major Kuga in tow. It's no secret that the military woman dislikes these meetings when they call for her. She prefers being surrounded by her work. Precious smiles and waves goodbye in return to the grey one with the feathery hair. She sees from her that all she wanted was have some questions answered, only to be confused like her in the end.
Once the people cleared the room, Precious hops onto the table not much different to than a cat. She moves from item to item for anything of interest. She smoothly moves from all fours and into a cross legged sitting position at the edge of the large table as Grandpa tells off the bad man. The latter is frozen in place from another symbol card, one which Precious did not see but heard being said. Would be a useful thing, better than pouncing somebody to the ground to snatch... But Grandpa said no more stealing, she doesn't want to upset him. She will try..
She looks surprised when she was told this man would now be her butler. She knows this means a servant for her needs. But she doesn't want him to be near her. "But.. Bad!" She protests while pointing at the culprit with a clawed finger. The man is deceptive, she doesn't like that at all. But, Grandpa wouldn't do anything to her that would be bad.. she trusts him but is still not happy about it... She takes the golden key into both her hands while nodding to his words. The realisation of her hunger came when food was mentioned, she must have forgot when the meeting was happening.
The hug shared between the two Thusians is a warm one. She remains seated on the table as they do, roughly at the same height. With closed eyes, her arms squeeze gently with a loving affection, tail wrapping around Grandpa's torso before she has to reluctantly let go of him when he leaves. She feels sad to see him go, a small whine emits from her when he is gone. The poor girl is prone to loneliness since Mama went to sleep. Her eyes then move to the bad man, her nose scrunches and brow furrows on sight of him. Tip of her tail lashes the air hard once before spazzing angrily. She is contemplating on just darting out of here and away from him.
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Post by Deaths on Jan 2, 2018 8:50:22 GMT
A small chuckle is produced from inside Armore. A laugh no one else shares, but that's fine this was for him anyway. The halfbreed Enmel had with him was the culprit, everything was going fine until he learned that this thing was Enmel's granddaughter. Armore curses silently to himself as Amelia yells at him from across the table. "Yeah you don't have to tell me twice." He answers the lady general,she was pissed to say the least perhaps it was time to skip town for a week or two, it would be nice to stretch his legs anyhow. Before he can take off a numbness fills his body, the spell didn't hurt at all but it was suffocating.
His mind begins to raise as his heart begins to beat hard and fast. This sluggishness this restriction of himself, is hell. Enmel walks over to him, and begins berating him. Everything word Enmel speaks goes over Armore's head, all he can focus on is this restraint. An anger begins to rise, how dare he do this to him. Armore was the victim, the thing was thief and deserved to be punished. He was merely standing up for himself, now he was being scolded, on top of imprisoned. All he could think about his popping Enmel's head, he was nothing more than a tyrant flexing his power and abusing his authority.
"No." He sternly answers, his carefree nature was gone from his voice. That anger reaches a new height when Enmel continues to speak. His tone was condescending, maybe it was or maybe Armore was seeing the things he wanted to see. It didn't matter, Armore snapped at the insult of being that things butler. He is so angry he couldn't even speak, he matched the gaze of the Thusian, but his was one of fire. The pat on the head was the straw that broke the camels back, how dare he so much as lay a hand on Armore. Everyone begins to slowly leave, soon it is just him, and his new 'master'. What a joke this thing can barely feed itself, and now he was responsible for it. No that wasn't happening. Armore locks eyes with the girl, and sprints across the room until he is face to face with her. Mere inches from he faces he inhales and begins an onslaught of insults. "This is all your fault!" He screams bullying the small girl. "If you didn't touch MY coin purse, I wouldn't have to teach you a lesson." His face is red while he shouts at her, veins in his head begin to throb visibly. He left arm begins to glow blue more intense than ever before, his whole arm is bright blue as his anger begins to fuel his magic. "You're a freak! Worse than that you're a leech, you're useless!" He continues laying into the girl, allowing his anger to have a target was supposed to make him feel better, but it's backfiring. "Now he wants me to serve you, I'd rather go with that monster Hugo than you." The mention of Hugo's name adds more fuel to the fire, Armore realizes he's stuck between a rock and a hard place. Either he becomes a slave once more at this 'thing's' beck and call, or aiding that grotesques beast.
No matter what Enmel gets what he wants while Armore plays the role of a happy pawn. "Fuck that!" he yells out loud at no one in particular. His vision blurs as he thinks about how he is just a cog in Enmel's machine. Than something new happens, his right arm begins to glow, this one a deep red. The angrier he gets the deeper it glows, this revelation intrigues him the momentary distraction allows him to get his thoughts in check. Releasing his magic in an attempt to calm down before he did something irreversible. He looks at the girl one last time, "Keep the coins, they have become tainted by your touch, 'freak'." He adds one final insult as he runs out the door. Armore sprints home to change allowing himself to get ready for his adventure. Slipping into a white tunic with a shirt made of chain mail thrown over it. Black cotton pants and a pair of leather boots complete his outfit, grabbing his short sword and his backpack he takes off once again. He meets with Amelia's scouts getting a map of the area, all the locations of attacks were marked, and the suspected hideout was circled. After having a short chat with the scouts he hunts down Hugo, running up to Hugo acknowledging the big guys presents he unravels the map and looks it over for a moment. His eye fly around the map as he studies the parchment in great detail, he blinks and nods his head handing the map over to Hugo. The map being committed to memory he smiles at the beast. "Hope you have a good memory," Armore taps his temple with a smirk indicating he wouldn't need the map again. "Now, keep up I only have one speed." He poses into his sprinters stance once again charging his legs up one more time, "Don't slow me down, I have more important things to do after this." With that he's off once again, this time slow enough for Hugo to keep pace.
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Post by DodoDestroyer on Jan 2, 2018 14:07:58 GMT
The sudden speed that the bad man moves when he gets directly in her face scares the life out of Precious. She falls backwards from her sitting position and scampers to the middle of the table to create some distance between them, her tail wraps closely to her torso. Her expression of fears turns into hurt hearing the venomous and bullying words from him. 'Freak'. Such a simple word to bring back many horrible memories when the humans called her so and other nasty names. Mama used to make it all better... But she is sleeping, and Grandpa is not here to help.
She begins to whine, a frightened and distressed long whine while her eyes burst into tears. Her feral instincts begin to kick in again. She's a cornered animal and the one screaming at her is a threat now. His glowing arm appears as a weapon he is about to strike her with. If she's swift, she could knock him down and make a break for the door. Her tail begins to whip the air hard in hostility. She's scared, he looks just like a human. The humans were always bad! But before she can act, he leaves the room with one final insult in a flash faster than her eyes can register. This calms her none, she is in distress and alone. She be here, she must hide before he is back!
Her movements are driven by survival instincts now. She evacuates the room fast on all fours, the small Neth crystal stitched into the ribbon glows as her reflexes call upon it. Her movements are faster and more agile, she moves like a panther at full speed from the meeting room and elsewhere. She has no idea where her destination might be, but it must be easy to hide in. She remains out of sight of passersby as she sticks to their blindspots while overtaking until she finds herself in a room with a large desk. It's perfect for her size! She manages to squeeze herself underneath... finally, she feels safe.. He can't find her here.
Despite the safety of the small hidden space, the word still follow with their sting. "Freak.." She echoes sadly, the tears still flowing down her cheeks. The word was the worst of it. Grandpa said things would be different here, that nobody would be cruel to her in this city. Did he lie?... Why would he lie to her? Her primal mind forgot the key Grandpa gave her and she is unsure where he could be right now. She can't go home without the key, nor could she bring herself to go back to get it. It's hostile territory now... She lies underneath the desk, sniffling her cries quietly. She moves her tail to her eyes, where the ribbon is tied. White cotton and a shining crystal stitched into it. Though she knows nothing of the power of a Neth crystal, but it was a present from Mama. She said it was a gem as precious as her. There is a symbol made into the fabric, it is the only thing she has a trinket relating to her Papa, whoever he might be. She memorised it, recreating it on the ribbon. It means 'Haste' according to Mama, Papa's favourite spell. She just holds the ribbon gently in her hands. Staring at it whole rubbing a thumb over the soft material, fantasies of Mama waking up. She always knew how to make her feel better when people were cruel.
She misses her so much...
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Post by Raz on Jan 2, 2018 15:06:09 GMT
As she had thought, the military review had been a pointless exercise as always. She'd been instructed on what a regiment of garrison troops are to look like and act, at what standard their gear is to be maintained, and how attentive they are with military discipline. When she saw those troops under Kuga and Amelia's command it was clear that she had no reason to be there. But apologetically she had said to the General and Major that she had to go through the list since it was part of her job. She hoped they didn't begrudge her for that. They didn't really seem the petty type. Though while she was there she did leave another small note that she herself had scribbled out when she had left the council hall. She had give it to the General with the express request that she not mention that she got it from her. She just couldn't help herself, this constant mail delivery between these two was getting ridiculous. She had felt like wanting to shout at both her cousin and the General that they should just tell each other that they're interested. But at this rate she'll be in her 90s by the time they figure out that they are more than just friends. The letter was hand written in common though the penmanship was a fine thing it read,
Dear General Amelia Athuement,
We have not spoken much these last few months so you may not know me well enough to trust me. I understand this and therefore understand if you do not trust me enough to speak about this issue. It regards Legate Calthok, my cousin. Since I have arrived in Kapali one of my main functions of working here has been the delivery of messages from him to you. This is no trouble for myself but I worry that both of you are wasting time in this regard. You are both Generals, heroes in your own right. You've slain men and beasts with both your blade and your wit. However there is one that is going to defeat you and that beast is time. You cannot deny that you feel something for Calthok, whenever he visits it's the only time I see you smile. And my cousin simply doesn't stop speaking about you! I grew up on the stories of your adventures together and even to this day when I see him he speaks of you with such fondness. He's never spoken that way about anyone aside from his father. Now, I know you may be wanting to just ball this letter up and toss it aside but I beg you wait. Put aside your pride for just a moment if you could. Right now the realm is at peace, but for how much longer I cannot know. Are you sure you want to waste this time keeping your feelings a secret from each other? I'm not telling you to neglect your duties as a general nor am I telling you to throw yourself into his arms. I'm only asking you be honest, with yourself and with him.
Sincerely, Servilia Urool.
What may happen because of that letter? She wondered as she walked her way back to her office so that she may begin drafting her own letter to her cousin. Perhaps nothing will happen but perhaps, and she hopes this is the case, perhaps they will put aside their duties and pride for just one evening. Those two have done more work for the realm and their people than many others. She feels they deserve a night to be happy, even if it is only a night. On the way back to her office she runs into one of the other servants in the castle. This one she new very well, Vesuvius Castellanos, a Roe-Lian whom she had met her first day here. He was quite the comedian and never failed to make her laugh. They chatted momentarily while he held a tray of small pastries that would be going to the kitchen. Precious could hear from outside of her room the sounds of conversation and the deep laughter of a Lomallum. The door to her darkened room opens and a familiar voice says, "I swear you missed your calling, Vesuvius. You should've looked into being the court jester instead." Another voice sounded off in amused laughter before fading into the distance.
The door closed and Servilia started over towards her desk. "Now, time to finish up Cal's message and then it's time for lunch." She said happily to herself, her stomach was growling reminding her persistently that she had not eaten anything since yesterday. She pulled back the thick metal reinforced chair as she was about to sit she saw the sad face of a familiar Thusian. Her eyes widened and she paused in place with one hand on the chair. "Oh!" She said in surprise, "What are you doing under there little one?" She asked kindly. She pulled the chair back and crouched down, she saw the tears streaming down her cheeks. "Oh my, whatever is the matter my dear? I didn't scare you did I?" She asked worried she had startled the girl.
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Post by DodoDestroyer on Jan 2, 2018 21:37:10 GMT
Precious listens to the conversation happening outside... She recognises this voice, the grey lady from Grandpa's meeting. She's pretty good at remembering things, voices in particular. It helped her avoid certain people back in her hometown and taking in travel routes. She doesn't know what it is about, but the grey lady is laughing so she seems happy today. It is when the door opens she becomes fully alert, moving further into the space to remain hidden. Though it is all futile as the grey lady pulls her chair back and exposes the half breed out into the open.
Little Precious gasps at being spotted, pressing hard against the desk's wood underneath. She tears remain fresh on her face and her eyes have reddened. She timidly comes out of the desk and sitting on the floor beside the cheer. She keeps her head down in a sad, slumped posture. She shakes her head when asked if the grey lady scared her. "Bad man..." She mentions the accused quietly. "Said... Said I'm a freak..." Her voice cracks on the last word, sniffling again while she wipes the tears from her cheeks. She fiddles nervously with her tail. She came into her without permission... Grandpa told her that this isn't a nice thing to do. She doesn't want to disappoint him again.
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Post by Raz on Jan 2, 2018 22:35:08 GMT
Her relief at having not frightened the girl was short lived as it was clear that whatever was bothering her must be rather serious. Servilia moves back so that the girl can come out of her hiding spot. Just how long had she been crying under there? It bothered her greatly to see how sad the little Thusian was but moreover the thought of what Enmel would do if he saw her in such a state was what really concerned her. Enmel was not known for being a particularly cruel man but even so there exist faint rumors of what happened to the people who wronged him. These rumors were the kind to give children nightmares if spoke aloud. "Bad man?" She repeats, confused at first as to who that may pertain to. However, realization brightened her eyes and she said, "Oh, the serving boy. The one who made that explosion." She had spoken to Amelia about that as well. Such distractions cannot be tolerated any longer when there are matters affecting the entire realm that are being discussed. Servilia knew that the punishment was going to go poorly but she didn't expect it to be this fast. "That wasn't very kind of him to say. But you shouldn't let it get you down." She said with a comforting smile. "Being a freak means that you're special. Freaks are unique, they see the world differently than other people, they interact with it differently. Take your grandpa for example." She wasn't exactly sure how Enmel would take being called a freak if he were here to hear it but she reckoned he'd probably take it as a compliment more than anything else. "Your grandpa built this city, he's done more in his life than almost anyone else whereas the serving boy will probably never do anything anywhere near as exciting. So when he calls you a freak don't be sad, wear it like a badge of honor. It's what I did when anyone called me a freak for my feathers." She says as she lightly twirls her finger in the violet and black plumage.
She let's just a touch of her persuasive magic influence the tone of her voice. She doesn't want this poor girl to be sad any longer. "Tell you what, since I'm almost done with work for the day anyway how about I take you out to lunch? What kind of food do you like?"
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Post by DodoDestroyer on Jan 3, 2018 9:52:26 GMT
The magical influence of the Lomallum's charm magic almost immediately take affect on Precious. Her lack of magical training makes her mental fortitude very vulnerable against it. She visibly calms down, no longer crying but quite enamored by the grey lady. Though, she tilts her head in confusion about her view on freaks. The humans always spat it out as of it was an accursed thing to say, and the bad man used it with every intention as an insult. She gets slightly miffed at her Grandpa being implied to be a freak. He can't be, he's so wonderous at what he does! "Grandpapa not freak. Grandpapa good!" She grumbles at first, but eases down quickly thanks to the charm effects.
By the end of it, she still has conflict with the name. While she would want to believe it a good thing, past traumas prove the negative outweigh the positives... But she is thinking on it, that's a good thing at least. Precious is also quite fascinated with the feathery bouquet on her head, giggling a little when she twirls her fingers through it. Two clawed fingers twirl a strand of her own hair around them as she stares at it, copying the act. She senses a kindness in the grey lady, a patience that is more than what should be normally demanded of her. She smiles and with her tail, points at the Lomallum's chest, where the heart and soul resides. "Patient." She remarks in a dreamy like state as she peers with this perception.
What lights up Precious more than anything is the mention of food. She is starving by now! Though the option of what kind of food is overwhelming. She never had such a luxury, scraps of whatever you could find or what the care package contained is what you get. "Um..." She thinks on this like this is a very important choice that needs to be thought over. Her tail tip even rests underneath her chin like a great thinker. There was one sweet smelling food she came across while walking with Grandpa to the meeting. She just needs to find the words to describe. "Um... Smells.. Sweet. Like cinnamon." She once had a taste of cinnamon, it probably the best thing she ever tasted! The smell suddenly made her think of it.
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Post by Raz on Jan 3, 2018 14:27:04 GMT
Once the girl had calmed down enough that she no longer was trembling, Servilia stopped using her magical charm to influence her. She only wanted to calm her down after all. She'd feel terribly if she went about manipulating her right after. The diplomat chuckled lightly as she saw her start to get defensive over the insinuation that her grandpa was a freak. "I know, I know." She says trying to hide her amused smile with her hand. "Your grandfather is a great friend of my family and he has been for many years. So you need not worry about me insulting him. I have only good things to say about him," She paused and added, "And about his precious granddaughter. It speaks good of you that you want to protect your grandpa. It shows that you have a kind heart which is something the people of this world have far too few of. You know, they say that those with a kind heart such as yours are worth more than all the silver and jewels in the land."
She smiles warmly when she hears the Thusian giggle at the way she was touching her feathers. "Oh? Do you like my feathers?" If Precious has ever seen another Lomallum before she'll know that no other Lomallum has had feathers or hair atop their head. Let alone feathers of such vibrant colors. Servilia notes the way that Precious plays with her own jet black hair. "I certainly like your hair. It's very pretty." She watches curiously as the Thusian's eyes seem to glaze over as she stares through Servilia. And then she raises her tail to point at the center of Servilia's chest. The Lomallum is genuinely touched by the girl's words. Added to that was how caught off guard by the sincerity of the young Thusian's tone. "Oh...thank you, Precious. That's so kind of you to say."
It takes a Herculean effort not to start laughing at just how adorable it looked to see her put so much time and thought into what she wanted for lunch. Though her humor was diminished rather heavily when she realized this may be the first time she's ever even gotten to choose what she wanted. Servilia mentally promised that she was going to take this girl to somewhere fantastic. "Cinnamon? Ah, a sweet tooth have we?" She said with delight, she knew just where to take her. "Well don't you worry. I'll find a place you'll love, I'm sure of it. " Gently, like she's picking up a dove, she takes Precious' clawed hand and rises to her feet. "But before we go, I have one more thing I want to do." Precious can see the Lomallum's hand reach up to the gleaming silver badge over her breast and unclips it. "Just for today and I'll need it back afterwards, but for today I name you the Assistant Diplomat of the Lomallum." Carefully she attaches the pin to the front of Precious' ragged shirt. The shining emblem stands in stark contrast to her normal attire. "Wear it with pride, Precious." The Diplomat says happily to the awestruck Thusian.
"Now let's get you some food." She said as she took the girl's hand once more and led her out of the building and down into the courtyard. She knew just the place that would blow her mind. It didn't take long until the overwhelming scent of pastries baking filled the air. Servilia led her down a cobblestone path to a little shop with the sign, "Hidi's Bakery" above the front door. Below the words was a picture of a Lomallum woman working hard at rolling dough. Once inside the owners eyes lit up, "Servilia! And goodness you've brought a friend!" She called from behind her counter. The building was busy with customers sitting at many of the tables enjoying their meals. Hidi is a Lomallum just like Servilia however she was enormous! Not just in size but in weight. But from the grand smile on her face Precious would know that this person was almost perpetually jolly. "Good day, Hidi. This is Precious, my assistant for the day. She's also Enmel's granddaughter. She said she wanted something sweet for lunch." The owner smiled and nodded, "Ah! Of course. You're traveling with quite the crowd these days, Servilia." Servilia just laughed and approached the counter. She leaned over and whispered to Hidi. "The girl has probably never had a crepe before and I'm trying to cheer her up. Can you get me two of the signatures and some milk?" Hidi nodded, suddenly very serious. "Right away. It'll be out in a few minutes. The seats are all taken but go out to the fountain in the square and I'll bring them to you." Servilia thanked her and placed one silver piece on the table. It's more than enough to cover the pastries and the extra that Hidi will be putting in for these.
After finishing her talk she leads Precious back outside and over to the burbling fountain. "Our food will be out in a minute, Precious." She paused for a moment and looked at the girl curiously. "How did you come about that name?"
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Post by DodoDestroyer on Jan 3, 2018 19:18:39 GMT
Precious' age within a Thusian lifespan is definitely being displayed. While appear as a fully grown adult, she is acting much like a child being promised a trip to the candy store. Her tail tip begins to wave and curl in the air happily while her expression is beaming. Her first friend! So this is what it feels like to have friends! Upon being helped up onto both feet, Precious feels a little unsteady and her grip tightens onto the grey lady's hand. She hasn't stood up on two limbs in such a long time that she forgot how it feels. Her knees are wobbly while her tail tries to help her find some balance. Her worries are soon forgotten the badge is being pinned onto her shirt. The silvery item has caught her attention like a magpie, a finger runs over the shining metal. She seems to have become even happier with the temporary gift and title. "Diplomat." She repeats with a nod. She has no idea what it means, but it should be good right?
As they travel to the place of lunch, this is probably the first time she's moved out in the open and in plain view. Passersby give the half breed strange looks to her rare appearance and raggedy clothes. She is feeling very Self-conscious, especially when a human comes into view. Not to mention the daytime feels dizzying for her... But the promise of sweets is still fresh on her mind and keeps her from scurrying off into a hiding spot. That, and the comfort of the grey lady. Then the smells hit her. The sweet smells of cinnamon! There's many more. Similar to fresh bread and something that reminds her of sugar. Inside the shop, she sees all sorts of treats. She's only ever imagined so many in one place, this is like a little paradise! Another comes into view, another grey lady but this one is larger and wider. Her booming voice startles the young Thusian and immediately drops back down to all fours to hide behind the other she peers from behind her legs shyly as they converse, though her eyes turn back to all of the pastries. She licks her lips at all the different kinds... She could probably snatch one up while the two were distracted with one another if she can get close enough... Then Grandpa's words come back to her mind, how she shouldn't need to steal anymore. Reluctantly, she suppresses the temptation of another swipe. Her eyes glaze over again when peering into the large woman... Discovering her joy for baking and selling these treats to her customers. Precious smiles softly at this discovery. It seems the grey ones all have good intentions.
When lead to quite a pretty fountain, Precious can't help but rush over to it. She holds herself up onto her legs by leaning her arms on the fountain's side. She splashes the water around with her fingers. The city has many interesting attractions that she can barely keep track of them.. But the fountains spilling water beautifully, it's one of her favourites. The grey lady asks about her name, Precious turning to her with a small smile of her memory. "Mama... People in town were bad, said very bad things to me and Mama." She frowns a little remembering that harrowing memory, but perks up again at the best part. "Mama made it better... Held me, told me I was her little precious." The story reveals that Precious is not her birth name... She does not know it, but has adopted the pet name her mother gave her. "Mama was good... very good. She is sleeping now... Sleeping for a very long time, but one day she will wake up! We can be together again." Servilia would realise that Precious' words imply that her mother passed away... but either to handle the trauma or through misunderstanding, she is lead to believe she is merely sleeping for a long time.
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Post by Raz on Jan 3, 2018 22:34:57 GMT
Seeing the excitement and wonder on Precious' face was worth the silver alone. There was just something heart warming about such innocence and naivety that she couldn't help but want to protect her. How that boy could've said such things to the Thusian was beyond her. It made her blood boil thinking of how he had been so cruel to her for so little a reason. It wasn't even like he had lost anything as he could easily retrieve his coin. She'd understand if he did that and then just left after the situation was resolved. But making the little girl cry? She sighed quietly and watched as Precious splashed her hands through the fountain's waters. Inside the fountain were sparkling stones that gleamed and shone beneath the suns light like so much silver. She listened intently as the young girl laid out the story behind her name and the more that Servilia heard, the more sorry she felt for her. "I'm sorry you and your mother had to go through such things. People are often cruel to those who deserve it the least." She said softly worried that this might bring the girl down once more. She smiled kindly when Precious told her why she had her name. "Ah so that explains it. I think your mother was quite right when she gave you that name. She must've been very lucky to have you. I bet your grandpa is just as thrilled to have you around." She nodded her head lightly at what her childlike interpretation of death was like. "Hmm, I've heard something similar. But I don't think they wake up." She held up a hand to forestall Precious from getting upset. "I don't think they wake up, but I think we'll go to sleep some day too. And when we're asleep we'll be with them again." Servilia doesn't want to tug this band aid off just yet but she wants the girl to have at least a semi correct view of what happens.
Servilia gasps for a moment and looks mildly embarrassed, "Oh my goodness, I can't believe I forgot." She stands up and clears her throat. "Here I am asking you how you got your name but I haven't even told you mine." She bows to the young Thusian like she was royalty and says, "My name is Servilia Urool. It's a pleasure to meet you, Precious." At that moment the shop door opens and out walks Hidi with a small tray with something on it. As she gets closer the smell of the food on the plate grows so much stronger than it had been. "Here you are, dearies. Two signatures and two milks." She takes one of the crepes by the paper covered bottom and hands it to each of them. Then she hands them both two mugs filled with milk. Servilia chuckles lightly as she sees how wide Precious' eyes have got. The pastry in her hand was warm to the touch with cinnamon and powdered sugar covered the crisp breaded sides. The inside of the crepe was filled with cream cheese and a mixture of strawberries/strawberry preserve. In her other hand was a metal mug filled to the brim with milk. "You girls enjoy. And be sure to come back soon." Hidi tells them before turning with her tray and heading back to the store. Servilia takes a small bite of her crepe and looks over to Precious, "Well to ahead, take a bite. It'll get cold if you wait too long. I hope it's sweet enough for you."
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Post by Snoe on Jan 4, 2018 8:52:03 GMT
Hugo was well on his way when the ‘boy’ had come mockingly close and branndishing a map as if it were a prize. Hugo chose not comment, the young were such an errractic group... especially Corpa. The large pure blood recognized the subtle traits though this one was lucky that he could pass with simple misdirection. Hugo was willing to overlook his first impressions for the time being, his patience would likely be tested but as long as his past behviour didn’t prove repetive out in the field.
“It will be just us, I sent the scout away.” Hugo didn’t need the offered map, he spent a lot of time his first month. He had garnered some attention upon arrival, Talon’s people were watching him, reporting back assessing him; there were even signs that his own maps were being copied. First thing Hugo learned when he earned his first command was to accurately assess the geography... hard lessons for young Corpa hungry for battle, this boy though young had his bearings... he showed promise; perhaps that’s why Enmel was testing him.
Hugo followed him to the front gate, Klaws was awaiting his rider having hunted for its dinner back around the cabin before awaiting Hugo by the tree line. He leapt upon its back and the lizard trailed after the blitzing Armore. Hugo spent these trailing moments going over the situation in the council chamber. Armore was a poor fit as a servant, too much energy for such an occupation and the furtherst thing from subservient... likely placed there as a watcher though the way Lord Talon watched him and baited Armore. Despite Talon’s honest anger at the situation there was more to it the punishment was almost daring the young one to ‘choose’ being stuck in the council room or take an active role. The Thusian seemed a gambler... Hugo dared not stay longer than that simply hearing the exchange from a distance.
Riding up along side Armore as he rushed “Its a long ways, you should conserve your mana if you intend on joining the frey.” Klaws had plenty of room for a second rider without being too close; a blessing considering the obvious distaste. They may not like eachother but they were going somewhere dangerous and Hugo wasn’t about to let his ‘scout’ get killed because they simply didn’t get along. “This is a full days ride you realize.” Hugo pointed out, and with the current output Armore was going to run out of mana soon and require a half a day to regain half of it... if he rested and ate a meal.
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Post by Deaths on Jan 5, 2018 6:54:05 GMT
Armore takes long strides, keep pace with Hugo's prized Icra. Truly a mount worthy of it's rider, though Armore couldn't help but wonder how he got one. Hugo continued to speak as the two traveled, his words were correct. "Damn does he have to be right." Armore whispered to himself as the pair moved down the road. "Yeah you're correct. Sorry, I'm not used to running towards a fight, and with someone else." He explained his reasoning his tone was much more polite then earlier, maybe the screaming at the tailed devil calmed him down some.
"I miscalculated the travel time in my head when I looked over the map. I run messages for...people, I know the surrounding location better than even Madam General her worship Amelia The bloody lady Athuement's elite scouts." He mocks the general in his usual style, adding an intentionally insulting impersonation, as a proud grin begins to grow on his face. "Usually I can cover a lot more ground, there are a lot of paths, tunnels, and caves most don't know." Armore's face becomes one of focus as his body continues to run on autopilot. "Okay I got it! At this pace we will be here by sun down." He points straight forward at the imaginary map he's created in front of him. "If you want I know where a little cabin is, we will be within a kilometer of it around sun down. That or we could camp." Armore snaps out of his self induced hypnosis, he looks up at the great beast and speaks up more politely than before. "May I ride on the back of your Icra?" He swallows a bit of his pride to ask Hugo for permission.
After getting the okay to come aboard, Armore climbs up leaving a respectful gap between the two. He studies the back of the giant in front of him the odd symbols he didn't notice before stain his skin. Armore's curiosity is kept in check at first, trying not to pry he sits silently on the lizard's back. His inability to sit still starts to take over his hands tap in a rhythm on the lizards back, using it's powerful stomps as base to his slaps. A few minutes of music quickly stops when Armore feels some anger manifesting in front of him. Whether it was real or a hallucination Armore decided to not test Hugo's limits and stops. "Master, may I ask you a question?" He speaks up, embarrassed by his choice of words, this time in his Corpa tongue. At first the words are a bit crude, he begins to find the accent his old owners beat into him. It was a style of the language designed for slaves to use. It was much more fanciful than the tongue of commoners, but had subtle tones and demeanor separating it from the Royal vernacular.
"Which house are you from, you have the mannerisms of a noble. The exile mark on your back, means you're important...well were important. Too strong to kill so they made you leave, My lord?" His questions have an almost child like wonder to them, as if he was a child waiting to be told a story. He mentally punches himself for the honorifics he uses, luckily Hugo was looking forward it helps ease his embarrassment. "Plus you have an Irca, my old Master had one. I used to tend to it, it was a magnificent beast." He lightly caresses their mount admiring the power of the lizard.
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Post by Snoe on Jan 5, 2018 8:16:18 GMT
Hugo nodded over his shoulder “As I have rode toward far too many fights.” Hugo commented in response. The ride was long but Klaws was quite happy to be back on the road, the way he moved beneath Hugo was quite telling. He had this Icra for many years, these mounts could nearly out live their riders if well taken care of.
The boy began explaining himself, likely nerves or he was simply just chatty looking to fill the silence between thudding steps of both the runner and the mount. “You’re obviously being wasted in the coucil chambers, seems you’d be much better suited out here.” Adding to what he witnessed in these moments of wayfinding. “You may ride, and the cabin is perhaps the more civilized of those options.” Hugo would rather have access to some form of stove, and most cabins possessed such things... his own home could hardly be called a Cabin but it was as of yet an unfinished project.
Armore was certainly young the drumming on the saddle to fill the further silence was tribute to that. Only to air a few questions, curiosity lending more toward Armore’s character. Nodding over his shoulder that he may. Hugo was hardly a Master anymore but the language of his home rang familiar, a former slave. The divided classes of the Corpa were always made so clear. It had been some time since Hugo heard it and longer since he spoke it in return.
The first question was possibly the one with the most drastic answer “I am first born son to Duchess Cybbil Latante, Hugo Latante General of the IronGuard or rather... I ‘was’.” Being a direct decendant to that madwoman was usually a shock to most but it would be rude to lie or dodge a question he’d agreed to answer. Too strong to kill... partially true. The fact of the matter was a Corpan Death sentence was a spectacle in the case of the nobility, one warrior was chosen from each house of equal rank... Hugo slaughtered all ten and earned exhile. The mark on his back proof of the victory... the only form of honorable discharge from military service... the boy was indeed correct too strong to kill. “You needn’t use titles with me, Hugo will do.” Hugo wondered if the boy had ever witnessed such things?
“My mother and many of the family heads were displeased for releasing the cattle and butchering the keepers...” Hugo withheld the fact that he ate the master of that farm... although not without using the wonderful kitchens to prepare him properly.
“Thankyou, this Icra is Klaws, my eldest friend.” Giving a name for Armore to use toward his mount. “It is rare for one of your unfortunate former station to have handled an Icra, you must have impressed someone.” Hugo attempt at a compliment and offering a chance for Armore to share.
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Post by Deaths on Jan 6, 2018 7:29:26 GMT
"Too many fights? Yet you continue to ride towards them? Sounds like you only know how to do one thing." Armore takes a teasing tone as he switches back into the common tongue. "You need to diversify yourself. Take a painting class or something, who knows you might find your true calling. Maybe try your hand at fishing, I know a very kind fisherman in town who might be hiring...just don't tell him I sent you." The speedster thinks back to his last interaction with Mr. Gestappi. "Oh man he's going to kill me." He smacks his forehead in recollection. "Enmel's pissed there's no way he'll do me a favor now." He continues to talk to himself while riding on the back of the great lizard. "I'm sure if this goes well he'll forgive me for 'assaulting' his granddaughter." Armore curses to himself, remembering how he lost his temper on the would be thief. "No I'm fucking dead after screaming at her...." His voice is sullen for a moment. "Oh well time to skip town, I had a good run here." The sullen tone now gone and replaced with a shrug and a carefree voice.
Armore continues to mock Hugo the forced conversation has lessened the tension between the two."In case you haven't noticed I don't like working." Armore answers Hugo's remarks about how he'd be more useful in the field instead of back with the council. "Besides being in town makes my job easier." Of course he was talking about his promise to Bryce, though Bryce didn't expect much from Armore, which is just how he likes it. "You say not to use titles, yet you couldn't help yourself showing yours off. I've heard of you Sir General, you killed a cousin of my master in a duel or something; he wasn't happy about that." Armore smiles to himself remembering how the master was angry and drunk over how much money he lost on betting against Hugo, and about his family members death to a much lesser extant. "I've heard of your mother, not much more than the rumors. I'm not one for rumors I'd rather see for myself... In this case I'd rather believe the rumors." If Cybbil is half the monster he hears, than she is one of the scariest things in the world.
"Kind of you to do the right thing at least once in your life." There is a little bit of venom in Armore's voice, as he hears about why Hugo was exiled. "The only good Corpa is a dead one...present company excluded of course, and Bryce. Wait a moment do you know Bryce? He's of your family, he broke my shackles and allowed me to pop the masters head like a grape." Armore made no secret that he enjoyed reliving the memory. He looked at his left hand just relishing in his first kill. "Bryce is building a kingdom of his own, no more slaves, no more feast, no more masters." Armore's smile changed from a sick grimace to a hopeful one.
He lightly pats Klaws, on the back. "Greeting and well met Klaws." He bows slightly as he formally meets the Icra. "Klaws huh? Not very creative really. I guess that's not your strong suit." He shrugs again, not really meaning anything by this remark, just a casual observation. "I wasn't stolen like many slaves, given my heritage as I'm sure you've noticed; I was born into it." Armore always tries his best to ignore and reject his parentage, though it was obvious to those who knew what to look for. "The master noticed that even at a young age, my legs weren't the only thing that was quick. I learned everything I was taught at a much faster rate than the others." He sits up straightening his back, a small amount of pride swells in him. "I was taught along side his middle son, I soon out paced the child. When we got older he made sure to make my life a living hell because of that." The anger begins to come back, and the regret that his children weren't home when Bryce arrived. How he longed for the their deaths as well. "I suspect he was my father or possibly a grandfather, his eldest was of age; and he had evil nightly rituals. I'm sure you know what I'm talking about." The memories fuel his hatred, an aura of anger starts to grow. He can feel his arm filling with magic once again, quickly he tried to distract himself with a better memory. "That's why when Bryce allowed me to decide his fate, the master thought I'd let him live. We were of the same blood, the look on his face when he saw the end of existence, wasn't one of fear, or anger, but of betrayal." A small chuckle escapes Armore, as the blue of his arm fades away.
"So lets just say I have many talents." Armore grows quiet for a few moments as he stares past Hugo looking ahead seeing all the landmarks, and subtle clues left behind. "At the next fork in the road make a right. If we go left we will pass a small logging camp, no need to startle the people there, they are kind honest folk. They wouldn't be able to handle the sight of you riding on a Klaws." Armore begins to hum to himself, a small habit he developed while deep in thought. "Going right will take us to the cabin slightly faster anyway." He adds more supporting arguments for avoiding the camp. "I apologize for bringing down our nice chat. I can remain silent if you like, or continue my freestyle lizard drums. It's a shame I didn't pack my lute." He says longingly a bit of sadness over his lost lute.
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Post by DodoDestroyer on Jan 8, 2018 13:20:51 GMT
Precious looks down in thought when the grey lady apologised for what Mama had to deal with. She was unsure why she was saying sorry, as it wasn't her fault at all. "Humans scary." She states as an afterthought aloud. And they are. Acting so hostile to her without giving a chance and she's scoured her brain for any reasons she did them wrong... But she only started stealing after Mama fell asleep and they were just as cruel before that. Her face soon brightens at the mention of Grandpa, Precious really does hope she's making him proud. She hasn't stolen since the meeting yet, that's a good thing right?
The very idea of Mama not waking up like the lady suggests upsets Precious. She's been told it before, and it gets her really frustrated because they don't understand. Before she can start I defensive about it, she is stopped in her tracks as they continue. How people don't wake up, but their closest ones will fall asleep with them to be reunited... She squints her eyes deep in thought. It's confusing, she never thought about that... She held such a tight view on this subject and accepting alternatives or different perspective is very difficult for the youngster. "Then... I want to go to sleep too." She says after thinking on it, making her decision. The naive smile is a sad indication to Servilia that Precious is still struggling to fully understand the concept of death.
The Half-Thusian watches her new friend now bow to her, naming herself Servilia. She wonders if she should bow back as well, but she fears that she would fall over due to the instability on two limbs. Instead, she smiles and does a bow of her head that Grandpa taught her is polite. "Servilia..." She stretches the word into a large length with some strain, speaking a foreign word and trying to pronounce it correctly. She was about to repeat it again, but the sweet aroma of cinnamon captures her whole attention. The tail tip stands to stare into the sky as a look of amazement takes over Precious. She's only ever seen such lovely things behind windows and out of her reach, she holds it with both hands as it deserves such a delicate touch. Before she could tuck in, an echo of Grandpa's wise words come into mind. She should pay! That's how it goes here when you are not stealing. Before Hidl could leave, Precious makes a fuss to grab her attention... Then puts her whole coin purse provided by her blood relative onto the tray as payment. Numbers and estimates is one thing Precious is not educated in, so she hopes the whole purse will be enough to pay for it all...
Now she feels that all is done, she takes Servilia's advice and takes the biggest bite she possibly can. She has never tasted something so heavenly in her entire life! The sweetness makes her mouth tingle the moment contact is made with her taste buds, it's at the temperature to feel comfort from the soft pastry. She literally cannot describe how amazing this tastes, so she just continues to eat almost ravenously. So much so that Precious has given herself the hiccups, sounding like little queaks. It barely slows her down and leaves no bit unwanted, linking the cinnamon on her fingers and any cream cheese that dripped upon them. After she has finished the savage feasting, she has noticed Servilia was watching. She feels so embarrassed being watched while eating... Her tail attempts to cover her face and blushing cheeks.
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Post by Snoe on Jan 17, 2018 2:40:38 GMT
The frosted cliffs whistled and howled at the edge of Ravenkahl, the home of Raum Voux; the second seat of the 10 families. The manor sits upon a mountain plateau a mile from the eastern capital of which sit below in a low valley, the snowy plains now freshly dusted this morning with light snow. The man himself stood at the cliffside balcony of this oppulent structure of stone, glass and wood. The cuffs of his fur fringed coat hanging over the railing as he leaned out waiting and enjoying the sight of the city far below.
Corpa enjoyed the cold and the altitude of the northern countries; the Eastern continent was the ‘old’ country so to speak. The Voux were the oldest Corpan family and the former Ruling family... since usurped by the Latante three generations back, although their rise to power was the ravaging of the human kingdoms of the West and taking the majority of their territory.
The Voux family had always been much less aggressive than the others even in the past Feast seasons were much less barbaric and even less impactful... Latante brought brutality into a once artful and strategic offense... Raum often reminisced ‘No wonder the lesser races believe us to be little more than monsters.’
“Sir!” The sound of the Corpan language spoken from the doors beckoned the attention of the tall willowy Corpa whom turned his raven haired head with a light and smooth motion gesturing with but two fingers for the servant to join him and to proceed “Master, we have discovered peculiar movements to the south, our patrols failed to return and an unatural blizzard has stirred to life, Master.” A scroll was handed to Raum, who stood back from the railing and unstrapped the scroll. His dark eyes and red iris’s quickly reading the lines before him as the servant continued further explaining what they knew of the new State to the south.
Raum finished with reading then passively gestured for silence “Very good, I have speculations as to our storm bringer... best keep our distance... advise the vice captains and their scouts not to engage anyone resembling a human within that storm; it most likely isn’t.” Raum turns and moves back into the mansion “Prepare an invitation to Bryce I have business to discuss with our little rebel he may find profitable.”
Raum had been a disliked by the majority of the nobility but his standing and power made him someone no one could ignore, and if things continued to move favourably he may be able to suscede The Latante as the acting head... unfortunately the aggressive expansions were low cost and high profit in terms of spoils but unfortunately it was making too many enemies and if the Latante and Voux families fell the inevitable union of the other races would do irrepairable harm to the Corpan nation and its people. “Ruling through fear only gets one so far.” Raum took a seat before a fire place muttering to himself as a glass of wine was delivered to his hands.
Raum returned inside and cozied himself into his favoured chair the furred collar of his coat pulled back and then moving to the next scroll. In the background the servants were frequently coming and going, many of Raum’s advisors living upon the same grounds as he for ease of managing the Voux family. The servants were kept very busy.
Scribes in the nearby drawing room were writing several letters and transcribing a few recieved. Raum rarely had cause to read common tongue or that of any other race though learning those languages was something of a hobby. An awkward boy from his yoouth taking to learning all he could about the different slaves. The Corpan Prince found it much easier to control and manage those you could communicate with regardless of their future... although Lomalum was by far the most difficult considering the ingrained hatred and sheer stubbourn nature but they were a slightly xenophobic people to begin with not playing well with others save for Thusian’s which is a very old relationship but even their allies fell under this view...
Raum took some time to study the Corpa’s greatest enemy and saw them objectively, the Lomalum were self reliant as a culture among many if they were to involve themselves with the other races they sought to be pillars supporting strength this gave them a superiority complex not unlike Corpa; the separating facts being their ability to reach out to the other races. Placating the other races and selfish seeking of glory engratiates the giants among other races despite the subtle superiority and their literal and figurative tendency to look down upon other races.
That being said, several letters delivered to him were of peculiar interest. One in written in Old Loma, another in Thusian script and most surprising was a Roe dialect with human characters. Human culture was very familiar to noble Corpa, the two histories were deeply intertwined. Some say that the Corpa ruling class assimilated human methods for a great many things... although the irony of it was the vast majority of cooking techniques were from old human texts.
At that moment a meal and the translated letters were delivered unto him. “You’re dear Mika, do tell the boys I’m pleased with their expediance this morning.” Reading the letters over lunch helped fill in the blanks to what was going on in the south none of it was good and even a few of his brethren were aimed to get involved despite the Family ruling. What struck him were the Lomalum and Thusian letters, both were round about ways of requesting that whatever occured to the south that the Voux family not get involved and to aid inthe prevention of Corpan involvement in the fate of the Free State in the coming year for various boons. THIS is what piqued his interest and almost insured that Raum woulld become involved... it was simply rude that such requests were made through parchment as opposed to proper discussion... the third letter of Roe and human hand was another story.
****** Meanwhile
Amidst the churning winds of a snow storm trotted a young pale man with blue hair and pointed ears. He stood bare foot, wearing furred leathers. Tattoo’s scrawled into glowing ink upon his body, gleaming lightly even at a distance. He hummed and danced through the snow as if through a summer meadow, ice crackling under foot. He was heading south to visit an old friend, this was Vareknor Undyne of ice and snow, a legendary creature of ice and snow... although in many a story he is seen as a sprite or fairy although by his appearence one could imagine such a form.
The storm quieted but the snow continued to fall, the winter of the northern lands following this being like pet to a whimsical master. He manifested statues of ice and snow playing with them as a child would a new, giving them temporary life to fill the lonely void.
Varek had come across a cabin in the woods with a big grin his skipped to the door, knocking in rhythm to his wordless song. “Hello?” His voice was soft and gentle, his statues stilled behind him. The cabin laid empty but the chimney spouted smoke... they shouldn’t be far away. Varek shrugged and took as seat outside enjoying the soft fall of snow until the CRACK and crunch of ice caught his ears and horror filled him as he saw a burly man knock the head off of on of his statues. Varek ran to the fallen form kneeling with the head in his lap “WHY?!” He levelled a sad look at this man and his companions looking for some good reason for this needless destruction.
They laughed at him, and didn’t bother to answer... “Guess I don’t need a reason for this either.” Varek’s tone went as cold as the ice in his hands. All five men were found days later frozen in place twisted looks of fear and pain, at their feet were flowers of ice an artistic memorial of careless mortals incurring the wrath of the Undyne Prince.
****** Meanwhile
Enmel had been speaking with the city banker, taking a look at the ledgers and noticing some troubling trends. There were a few merchants within the city that were pulling their funds from the bank and others making transfers and promisary notes. Coupled with the lacking mercenary presence in the city and following those threads to the east and south Enmel was seeing signs of preparation. The kind that can’t be hidden, although the who and what were a bit vague. It was as if the land was taking a deep breath before taking a headlong plunge into war... The common folk unfortunately oblivious yet the inevitable tension would soon begin to grow.
The spies working for the Free State were aimed at the likely suspects by Talon himself and a few that he hadn’t considered were tied to those groups.
There were the Curnen; a Roe Lian splinter tribe... raiders and mercenaries but very good ones that known to draw out the main army from a city even go to battle while the rest of their forces sack a secondary but lucrative target. That alone would make the Free State a target and them a willing army... but they did have one or two altruists among them. Enmel didn’t want to discount that they may be behind the bandit raids.
Then there was the Nolun guild a rumored merchant guild that preferred to slowly buy out a cities smaller merchants and create a monopoly secretly puppeteering a city sometimes gutting it to ensure an investment elsewhere pans out. They had the finances and had been trying to gain a foothold in the city... it hadn’t ended well going against the guile of Enmel and his connections. Being hindered blocked and refused at every turn would result in lost investments too great ignore so them funding an effort to take over was very possible.
King Halun, a human despot looking to re-establish himself. A brutal tyranical man with a good cause but misguided aims. Enmel suspect him simply because of his nature and insistance that the Free State needed a monarch and should be a human sanctuary.
Counter to the human King was a faction of Lomalum displeased with the status quo and angered that Enmel was allowed to establish land so close to Lomalum lands and were dead set on expanding Lomalum territory further enraged by the possibility of humans and Corpa living on the wrong side of this border. This was the Juvog Clan rivals to the Urool, if the Urool suggested one thing the Juvog always countered it. Spite and xenophobia plagued that clan... and Enmel had undermined many of their acquisitions in favour of his old friends the Urool despite better offers... the Family heads were rather displeased with that.
Then there were the Corpa themselves, Raum had made some attempts at reaching out, though mostly with vague warnings amidst the Royal clarifying the official verdict of non-interference until the next feast season. Raum eluded ever so subtly to those that would not abide by the Family heads ruling. Young dukes and duchess mimicing Cybbil’s rise to power, but none of those likely of disobedience would command an army larger than five hundred soldiers unless it becomes a joint effort but Corpan nobility is not known for sharing.
Enmel spent the rest of the day summarizing his findings and making finer points for his fellow councilors to read and deliberate on and something a little more in depth for Amelia’s people... considering she had her own spies she had more information and Enmel was simply supplementing what she may already know. ******** Hugo
The boy had no filter in terms of how he spoke it seemed. A grumble and the click of his tongue found his first response “Too many times, but I never said it wasn’t something I don’t enjoy.” Hugo admitted “Though I have hobbies.” He followed, though cooking and carpentry were hardly relevant topic at this point.
The following rambling didn’t make much sense lthough the last part was of amusement “If Enmel wanted you dead I don’t imagine distance is going to save you... best find an isolated cabin and learn to enjoy your own company.” True if the rumours of that Thusian were to be believed “Though if you were truly afraid I’d say that you shouldn’t waste your time helping me oon this mission if you seek to escape.”
The commenting of his killing a cousin of a certain master was hardly specific, the roots of noble Corpan family trees were deep and twisted things. Then the subject of Hugo’s mother came to light “The rumours are polite by comparison to the truth, my mother once punished a General for failure to obey commands over the course of a month by publicly removing pieces of him every three days while he was alive sparring no expense to keep him alive and on display in the barracks.” Hugo painting a brutal picture to gauge how squeamish the young man may be.
“You’re niave to believe such things; right and wrong are a matter of perspective and I doubt you’ve held the company of Corpa other than corrupt nobility and their underlings.” Pointing out that if this boy had any education at all he was infact a very spoiled slave and priveledged by comparison to common born Corpa. “You are a rather spoiled boy despite your treatment, a commoner in our homeland lives a much worse life, than the servants and slaves to nobility, and few of them truly learn to enjoy killing; they are simply trying not to starve... Bryce understands this well, and yes we’ve had our meetings in the past, but he is a bit too idealistic; I fear that we wont see his dream come to pass without the rest of the world seeing us all dead pure blood or halfbreed... because the ‘only good Corpa is a dead one’.” Hugo pointing out that Armore wasn’t as separate from his kind as he trully wished to be.
“Klaws, in High Corpan means weapon.” Hugo commented on his ‘creative name choice’ though he would admit the name wasn’t terribly original. Listening to Armore’s childhood was very telling to his personality “Again you are a terribly spoiled creature despite your mistreatment.” As many servants slaves and common born Corpa n service to nobility were pulled into the debauchery behind closed doors and within the bowels of locked basements and private ball rooms. Spectacles of gluttony and lust... sometimes both prevaded the royal culture. Bored and rich with little to do between feasts, led to creative forms of selfish parades of decadence.
Listening to the end of the boys story of killing his master Hugo decided to make an observation “If you wished to make yourself seem above the Corpa you despise you should have chosen mercy.” Following the directions given to the cabin avoiding the locals for the sake of avoiding incident. Arriving at the cabin and dismounting “I’ll set to making dinner, but I’d suggest you hunt your own meat, you wouldn’t appreciate what I’ve brought along.” Leaving it at that, Hugo grab a package from Klaws’ saddle and headed in to begin making a meal for them both, the meat would be cooked separate for the sake of his guest.
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Post by Raz on Jan 18, 2018 2:20:49 GMT
Servilia sighed but smiled at young girl's innocent view of what death was. This was more than enough for today though. Servilia had no idea of pressing the issue for now. The poor thing had been through more than enough for one day. "Well you needn't worry about all that right now. There's still so much to do while you're awake!" Servilia said trying to shift the subject back to something happy. Servilia is surprised when the little Thusian returns her bow with one of her own. But she was even more surprised when she said her name correctly on the first attempt. The syllables would be strange for someone not used to Lomalum names but she got it perfectly after sounding it out. "Very good, Precious. I might make you into a diplomat yet!" She says just before the server arrives. She has to fight back a chuckle as the Thusian looks awestruck at the little treat that Servilia had given her.
The diplomat took a small bite of her pastry and sipped on her glass of milk just as Precious started to raise a fuss when Hidi turned to leave. Servilia looked at her with mild alarm in her eyes as the half Thusian had been so quiet and shy so far. Hidi turns back to the young girl confused, "Hmm? Is something wrong de-" She stops mid sentence as Precious slaps down a small pouch with jingling coins inside. "O-oh! Is this for me?" She asks, casting a confused look to Servilia. The Lomalum diplomat is fighting back a giggle as she stands up and takes the coin purse back while Precious is busy attacking her treat. Hidi looks to Precious and back to Servilia with her jolly smile. "Your friend is adorable but you might not want to let her run around with that much coin. Poor girl was going to pay near fifty silver for a glass of milk and a pastry." Servilia nods and laughs with her, "Well at least it would've been a good pastry." That was enough to make the big woman give a hearty laugh. "Well if you girls are ever in the need of some refreshments be sure to stop by. Might have something new in stock." She says with a wink before hurring back to the store as a line begins to form out the door.
Servilia ate her own treat but quite a bit slower. Crumbs and dustings of cinnamon covered the front of Precious' shirt as she tore into the crepe. When she finally stopped, Servilia offered her a hankerchief to clean some of the carnage from her cheeks. Servilia had to resist smiling when she saw Precious try to hide her blushing cheeks. "Aww no need to be embarrassed. I wasn't much different when I had my first one either." Admittedly she was six at the time but that wasn't something Precious needed to know. "I was really proud when you tried to pay for the meal. I bet your grandpa is going to be really happy when he hears about this." Servilia keeps the coin pouch on her belt but doesn't make any note of it to Precious. "So, now that you've had something to snack on, want to go tell your grandpa what's happened? He must be worried sick about where you're at."
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Post by Deaths on Jan 20, 2018 4:32:12 GMT
Armore sits quietly as Hugo gives his answers, of course this beast likes battle. The ogre then talks of his hobbies which causes Armore to have a small laugh, well more of a hard exhale than a laugh. "If one of those 'hobbies' involves cooking, don't bother." Armore throws a few more cutting words toward Hugo, which no doubt bounce off him like rocks thrown against a brick wall.
"Sorry I think out loud a lot, if I keep doing it just let me know." He replies to Hugo's commentary about his meeting with the horned thief. "Of course I love my company, everyone does; it just takes some longer to realize than others." Armore smiles as he continues to tap on the back of Klaws, not being able to move his legs is beginning to slowly drive him mad, and he needed some sort of release of his pent up energy.
"Disgusting..." Is all Armore can weakly reply at the story of Hugo's mothers 'discipline'. "Please never tell me anything about her again." He follows up his stomach twisted at the picture he mentally painted for himself. The conversation was surprisingly pleasant for the most part, Armore was surprised at how well he and Hugo were getting along. That is until Hugo destroys all the good will with one word 'spoiled'. "How fucking dare he!" Armore screams inside his head he was angry before now he was proper pissed off. He sat in an angry silence, quietly listening to every word Hugo said until he's heard enough.
"Not another word." He says sternly, his voice is cool and collect, even though every word has fire behind it. "A fucking spoiled slave, how rich. Let me count my scars as blessing from the gods." His tone shifted immediately to match the fire in his chest. "So since I can read, that means I'm spoiled. I have been beaten, violated, and forced to serve wine to the MONSTERS that were eating my friends and family!" Armore continues to scream at Hugo not letting up for a moment, his body is shaking but it was not out of fear of Hugo, but of rage at his words. "THEY KILLED MY MOTHER AND ATE HER FOR FUCKING DINNER!" Armore's face is glowing read tears fall from his eyes though he does not slow down, this was the first time he ever really talked about his mother, he was overcome with emotions. "It was a lovely party if you must know, Nobles from all over attended. Luckily I was only ten so I wasn't involved." The hatred in his voice starts to grow into a sadness as the fire begins to dampen.
The memories of his mother are few, some of them are so hazy he doesn't even know if they are real. "So..." He begins again weakly his voice choking. "So don't ever call me spoiled ever again. If you do I will do something stupid. You will kill me," He looks done, Armore clearly recognizing the power difference between the two, "but I will make sure you can't ever forget me." He continues his threat anyway completely overwhelmed by his outburst.
The two arrive at the cabin exactly as Armore planned, nearly down to the minute he expected them to be there. In his emotional state he didn't hear a word, Hugo said to him after his outburst. He sat on the back of Klaws in an angry silence refusing to acknowledge Hugo in anyway. Armore jumped off the mount the moment the cabin came into view. His face still red his eyes still puffy, he wanted to put some distance between himself and that monster. Taking out a key he unlocks the front door, leaving it open for Hugo. He walks towards the fireplace and begins to light it, as the sparks take shape he looks over at Hugo helping himself to the furnace. Armore spits into the fire, visibly angry with what Hugo had brought to eat.
He wants to scream at him again, though his throat hurt and the fight would be meaningless. "Once a monster always a monster." He thinks to himself as he walks away from the small kitchen in the north east corner of the building. He had more important things to do, he was days late and no doubt Bryce's men have left letters for him. In the back of the room is a small hole cut into the wall, it looked perfectly like a mouse had made its home there. Laying down on the floor Armore reaches into to hole until he grabs a scroll inside. Walking over towards the fire he unravels the parchment and reads it, nothing too important just special interest Bryce has with local business and traders.
This was an easy job, so Armore felt confidant in his next action. He carelessly throws the parchment into the fire watching if burn making sure no scraps survived. In less than a second he is on the other side of the room standing on the only bed in the cabin, reaching up to a shelf above it. He grabs writing supplies and beings to scribe a new scroll.
Dear Bryce,
I apologize for my tardiness, it was difficult to get away from Enmel this time around. This letter has nothing to do with my other reports which will be included in the dead drop. I just wanted to add that a Hugo Latante, has been hired by Enmel to kill bandits. I'm accompanying him, and I just want to say that I hate him with every fiber of my being. He is a disgusting monster and I would pay the worlds weight in silver to watch his head be removed from his shoulder.
Yours, Armore Caelestis
Though his words were less eloquent than normal the letter served it's purpose in making him feel better. He seals the scroll and stuffs it into the hole, along with three other ones. In truth he was no true spy and he expected that Enmel was fully or at least partially aware of his true purpose. Armore took great steps to not over step his boundaries, and dig too deep. Little information was more useful than none at all.
Leaving his mess of inks and papers on the table, Armore get up and walks towards the kitchen. Moving past Hugo and ignoring the monster as it cooks, he opens a barrel full of apples and takes four out. Next he grabs an orange from another barrel and walks out the front door. He sits on the steps looking out towards the forest, as he silently eats keeping his thoughts to himself.
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Post by DodoDestroyer on Jan 22, 2018 10:01:31 GMT
Precious smiles with a glow when Servilia said Grandpa would be proud of her, her tail tip flicking the air smoothly to indicate her happiness. She hopes he is.. Though she has no clue whether or not it was enough and maybe that's why the grey lady talked to the other, larger grey lady to pay for the rest. She wasn't really paying attention when eating. "Grandpa busy..." She says a little sadly when asked if they should find him... OH but how she wants to tell him all about her new friend... He wouldn't mind a small visit, right? He always has time for everyone and everything in Precious' eyes. "...But, Grandpa would like you... okay." She finally decides with a smile.
Her tail then waves a little in the air towards Servilia, almost like beckoning her to follow. It is when it comes apparent that Precious' tail does not feel as dormant as most Thusians, it acts precisely like another limb. All the little Thusian needs to do is find him now. She knew he would go to the bank by this time, then head to their home afterwards. As eccentric as Grandpa likes to be, he does have some sort of routine within his chaos, a routine Precious studied and now knows like the back of her hand. Intercepting his arrival home would be the easiest route instead of trying to find him on the way there. She leads her new friend to the elegant mansion that is known as Talon Manor. Many would kill to call this place their home, but Precious gets exactly that kind of privilege. Unfortunately, she dropped her key in the council room after the bad man yelled in her face... It's okay though, she has actually broken into the manor before. Hopefully Grandpa has not noticed that fact yet, she doesn't know if he would be disappointed or impressed. "Wait." She asks Servilia before the Neth crystal ribbon tied to Precious' tail begins to glow faintly, knowing that it's power will be needed for this feat.
From her crouched position, she pushes her legs against the ground and into a bound, slightly higher than should be possible even for an agile Thusian. She easily finds a grip on some of the stoneworks with her claws but she doesn't stay there for long with her momentum going, launching herself higher again until she reaches the highest window. While she holds herself in position, hands gripping the window's bottom frame and feet planted firmly on the wall, her tail fishes out something hidden within her raggedy clothes.. A locking. Grandpa is smart to lock the windows from possible burglars, since by technicality Precious is doing just that but with the intention of getting inside her own home. It takes a minute or two, but the girl is happy to see that she managed to jimmy the window open before slipping inside. Servilia doesn't need to wait long until she hears the front door being unlocked, Precious on the other side opening it for her. She momentarily is on two limbs to accomplish this, but soon drops back down to four once her friend comes inside. All they need to do now is wait, so Precious leads Servilia into the living space where she has made a makeshift hammock from one of the elaborate curtains earlier in the day. The silky smoothness makes it comfortable to relax in. She climbs into it with agile grace, hammock swinging lightly side to side as she does. "W-welcome." She speaks proudly to Servilia, now a guest to her Manor.
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