[hr]ATTN: [@Rezod92] (Kerry) & [@The Irish Tree] (Eula)[hr][hider=The Cards We Deal Ourselves (Collab with Rezod92)]Alice rose with the sun, as her body regenerated by running back the clock, and reclaiming every minute that could be; the lost seconds became junk data within her body, and a problem for tomorrow. As she sat up, she found a head nestled in her lap, and arms around her waist - both having slid from her breasts, made into pillows as she slept by her spontaneous lover of a fortnight. Alice looked down, regarding the mercenary with a fond affection found in fresh lovers and newlyweds; the honeymoon phase, as the experienced called it. Everything was idyllic. Everything was perfect. Flaws had yet been uncovered. Problems were yet discovered. All bubbles, no matter how beautiful, were damned to pop. Ever-brilliant, Alice would willingly press the envelope. In a process she called, "Shifting Down," for sake of terminology, Alice would ripple and shiver, as her porcelain skin darkened, her imposing form shortened, and her crimson hair lengthened, while her mushroom cap grew taller. From Alice to Cecilia, the woman underneath, the Rebellion Queen, the Mad Hatter would trade one form for another, and with her stouter frame, slip free of the sleepy embrace. Settling upon the floor, Cecilia would extend her right hand, her dominant hand, and flexed her fingers. "[color=0F52BA][i]Incite. Invite. Hear me. Heed me. Cecilia, the Rebellion Queen, calls you to arms,[/i][/color]" she says, "[color=0F52BA][i]Disobey and rebel, Dusk.[/i][/color]" Attracted by the familiar, yet dissimilar call of Kerry's Mana, the black spear lifted from its rack, and Cecilia closed her fists around it. "[color=0F52BA][i]Ara ara~[/i][/color]" Cecilia cooed, "[color=0F52BA][i]Such power you have, yet such apprehension to unleash it, and kill. Apologies, a thousand and one, but... killing is all I'm good at.[/i][/color]" Turning, Cecilia crossed the spear over her back, and took her leave... By the Kerry awoke to find her missing spear, and tracked it back to the thief, she would find Cecilia in her small clothes; a sheer, silk chemise, a study, dore straight-seam corset, and a pair of cotton, open drawers - drenched in sweat from the effort of familiar swings, as she treated Dusk like a sword, not a spear. Graceful, flowing swings, interspersed with powerful, poignant strikes, woven into a marching, almost dancing martial art. Cecilia flowed from hunks of firewood, yet split, but soon cleaved in twain by the spear that didn't kill, as she made it able to rebel. Kerry's sharp eyes could see the rivlets of Mana-rich sweat rolling down the spear, nourishing the unique metal, and imbuing it with corrupted potential. Once her katas were complete, and the firewood was all chopped, Cecilia stopped to vent the built up heat as she panted. [color=fff79a]”You know….”[/color] Kerry made her presence known as she stepped out into the clearing. [color=fff79a]”You could’ve just asked.”[/color] "[color=0F52BA][i]Such is not in my nature, mon chéri,[/i][/color]" Cecilia says, "[color=0F52BA][i]Respecting boundaries, such a difficult labor for me, the Rebellion Queen.[/i][/color]" [color=fff79a]”Well, with a title like that, I guess you would have an identity crisis if you did something contradicting said title, huh?”[/color], the hornet commented with a smirk. [color=fff79a]”Still….Your spearwork is something else. Not a single wasted movement in your form, your strikes are clean, your thrusts are measured and precise. It’s almost like you’re marching to a beat. Such a unique style. So unique that…..I….”[/color] Kerry’s statement trailed off as her eyes became distant and unfocused, a clear sign of someone going through memory lane. "[color=0F52BA][i]Oi![/i][/color]" Cecilia says, bonking Kerry with the flat of left palm. "[color=0F52BA][i]Being rude is my thing.[/i][/color]" [color=fff79a]”Ow! I wasn’t being rude, you dork!”[/color], the merc snapped back, rubbing the sore spot on her head. [color=fff79a]”I was just remembering. In fact, now that I’ve think about it…[/color] [color=fff79a]”...I may have seen that kind of spearwork before.”[/color] "[color=0F52BA][i]How curious,[/i][/color]" Cecilia says, before burying Dusk between them. "[color=0F52BA][i]Shoes off. Hands up. Stand on my feet.[/i][/color]" [color=fff79a]”Eh? Ummm….alright. Sure.”[/color] Confused as to where this is going, Kerry complied regardless, discarding her greaves before standing on Cecilia’s feet with her chitinous hands up. [color=fff79a]”Okay, now what?”[/color] Cecilia took Kerry's hands, and moved their feet as one, humming softly, as she closed her eyes, and moved around Dusk without hitting the spear-turned-placemaker. It would take Kerry a moment to realize... they were dancing. "[color=0F52BA][i]I hate serious conversation, the atmosphere of reality, so crushing and real, heavy with self-importance... If we have to talk about things, I'd rather do so dancing,[/i][/color]" Cecilia says, "[color=0F52BA][i]Such is my rebellious nature. A nature that I worry you will be unable to love, because you love her, shining ever-brilliant...[/i][/color]" Cecilia opened her sapphire-blue eyes, as they looked up into Kerry's hazel, and she frowned, "[color=0F52BA][i]Are you able to look at me with those hazel-brown eyes, and love me the same - uncouth and rebellious as I am, lacking her refinement and class?[/i][/color]" "[color=0F52BA][i]Answer me that, true, then tell me your story, freshly remembered...[/i][/color]" Kerry’s dark cheeks turned rosy as she realized they were dancing around Dusk and would’ve commented on it if Alice….no. If [i]Cecilia[/i] hadn’t started pouring her heart out. Seeing this rare instance of the mad hatter letting her guard willingly and without going through her usual defenses, Kerry set aside her own embarrassment and gave her answer. [color=fff79a]”Oh? Can I ask you the same? I’m loud, brash, often act before I think, my mouth gets me into trouble and I can sometimes be a dumbass. Can you look at me with those sapphire-blues and love me, despite all of my cons? When I put on that ring, I vowed to love ALL of you. The imposing Dinah, the shining Alice….and the rebellious Cecilia. I’m with you to the bitter end, dearest. You can count on that.”[/color] "[color=0F52BA][i]A bold promise. A very Human promise. I've loved many, known many, and lost many. From the mud and the blood, I've scaled to the Throne of God, and lain my hand upon the gilded seat. For my hubris, I was kicked down, but I know I can ascend again...[/i][/color]" Cecilia says, "[color=0F52BA][i]Find myself in Wonderland, reunite my Band of Diamonds, and take to the Path of Reformation, shining ever-brilliant...[/i][/color]" she says, bringing Kerry close, as the song reaches its crescendo, "[color=0F52BA][i]The bitter end may be the death of you, Kerrigan Maros? Would you die for a Human that won't accept her place as a Mamono, and seeks rebellion against the Lilim that damned her? Is that truly a future you believe in, for you, and for her -- [/i][/color]" Cecilia brought their hands between them, ambient Mana connecting and touching upon their unlain child, "[color=0F52BA][i] -- and all that risks?[/i][/color]" "[color=0F52BA][i]I... walk a dangerous path, and I cannot drag you down with me, if you harbor doubts in the dream I seek.[/i][/color]" Kerry’s other hand came to caress Cecilia’s cheek as their foreheads touched. [color=fff79a]”Yes, Cecilia. I would die for this. For you, for Gwen, for that ever-beautiful dream. However…..I won’t die. Neither will you, love. Because I will use every bit of my body and soul to make sure that future becomes a reality…..and all three of us are there together, enjoying its warmth and glory.”[/color] A chaste kiss punctuated the merc’s response, as well as a gentle pulse from her belly, as if to concur. "[color=0F52BA][i]I hope you never come to regret it, then,[/i][/color]" Cecilia says, before she raised her right hand, a ring being uncovered, "[color=0F52BA][i]The Trumpart you faced, was she wearing a ring like so,[/i][/color]" she asks, allowing Kerry to see the silver band inlaid with nine diamonds of nine colors, split four by four by the clear center, "[color=0F52BA][i]and wielding that trumspear you possess, albeit whole enough to be a full weapon?[/i][/color]" Kerry’s eyes flashed with recognition upon seeing the ring. “Y-Yeah, she was. I took note of it when we shook hands after the duel. And she was using the spear that the broken handle came from.” Cecilia would raise Kerry with some vine, and then stood on her feet - despite being rather short, and rather stout, she was shockingly lighter than Kerry might have expected. Able to tippy-toe, Cecilia would place her lips to Kerry’s right ear, and purr before requesting, "[color=0F52BA]Do regale me with the tale of how my love came to win a clash with Bridgette Pique, Ace of Spades, and my Third Diamond?[/color]" Kerry’s eyes widened as Cecilia spoke a name she hadn’t heard in years. [color=fff79a]”W-Wait! You know Bridgette!?”[/color] "[color=0F52BA]Did I stutter,[/color]" Cecilia asks, before shifting up into Alice, "[color=976f29]I don’t think I did,[/color]" she says, looking down upon Kerry, her crimson eyes shimmering, "[color=976f29]The Trumpart I trained, so lovingly, so personal, brought to a draw. A member of my personal guard, and my lover. ‘So curious, said Alice, ‘Curiouser and curiouser, indeed.’[/color]" With the mad hatter’s now ruby eyes gazing down upon her, Kerry made the rare wise decision to get on with it and tell the story. Her own questions, which there were many and counting, would have to wait. [color=fff79a]”Alright, don’t get so interrogative. I’ll tell you.”[/color], Kerry began, taking a moment to recall the memory. [color=fff79a]”It was around four years ago. I, along with a few other fellow mercs, had just finished a bodyguard job helping a client’s caravan cross the Great Badlands and were staying in a port town for a few days before moving on to the next job…”[/color][hr][hider=A Fateful Duel][color=fff79a]”Ugh, Lilith’s tits, crossing that shit was a pain. And we made it a day early too, so that client better give out that bonus along with the good pay or they’re getting Mort up the ass real quick.”[/color] Stepping out of the tavern/inn she was staying at, Kerry was greeted by morning hustle and bustle of Ragger’s End, a port hub located on the coastal tip of the Great Badlands. The local merchants got up bright and early to set up their shops and put up their wares and items for sale as ships came and went into the oceans beyond. [color=fff79a][i]Alright, the client should be at the local town hall right now. The sooner I can get paid, the quicker I can pay for a trip across the pond. Adventure calls and one shouldn’t stay for too long.[/i][/color] With that, the hornet began her trek across town. However, at the halfway point, she came upon a most curious sight: A crowd amassing in the town’s square, loud cheers and shouting being heard by all who had ears to hear them. Seeing one of the other mercs who traveled with her, Kerry’s curiosity won her over and she approached the crowd. [color=fff79a]”Yo, Creig. What’s going on here?”[/color] “Oh, hey Kerry.”, responded Creig, a tall middle-aged man with a burly build and scraggly beard, decked in leather armor and boots. A longsword was draped across his back. “Get this: Some weird card woman showed up from outta nowhere and demanded to know if we’ve seen someone. Some royal official or a princess? I don’t know, I wasn’t really paying attention. Anyway, some of our mates didn’t take too well to that and reckoned to teach her some manners. The card woman obliged. Next thing I know, a crowd builds up and everyone’s taking bets on who can beat her. It’s been a series of duels ever since…..and she hasn’t lost yet.” [color=fff79a]”Really? And you’re not participating?”[/color] “You shitting me!? She took out big ol’ Lonzo just a few minutes ago! I want no parts of that, thank you very much!” Rolling her eyes at the man’s dramatics, Kerry pushed her deeper into the crown. She had just reached the center when a body was tossed to her feet. It was Fredrick, a dual-wielding bastard swordsman and another of her traveling colleagues, now laying battered and bloodied as he groaned in pain. [color=fff79a]”Well, at least you’re alive, Freddy.”[/color], she commented with a smirk before looking up to finally see this ‘card woman’ herself. As Kerry looked up from her fallen comrade, she would see a tall, lithe brunette, spinning a spear with a longer-than-average blade, and cleaning it of the blood shed upon it by it. As she spun the weapon, she seemed to be marching... or, perhaps, in a sense, dancing... in place, before she finished with a downward slash to her left from her right, and assumed a stance that seemed more open than a spear user would like. It was better suited for a sword user. "[color=708c98][/color]" the “card woman” shouted, her accent a mix between the Common Tongue and something that begged to be wondered about. It was painfully clear she was a foreigner, and most likely, not even from this Realm. Kerry’s eyes narrowed. [color=fff79a][i]What is that stance? No self respecting spearman would ever leave themselves that open. This woman….She’s definitely not from around here, her magical aura very peculiar and unlike anything I’ve sensed so far. Energies like this means either she’s from Pandemonium, which is impossible because NO ONE leaves that place, or she’s from…[/i][/color] [color=fff79a]”A long way from Wonderland, don’t you think?”[/color], the hornet announced herself as she stepped over Fredrick and stood some distance away from the woman. [color=fff79a]”Took a wrong turn?”[/color] "[color=708c98][/color]" the spearwoman says, "[color=708c98][/color]" [color=fff79a]”Can’t say I do if I don’t even know what she looks like.”[/color] "[color=708c98][/color]" The hornet blinked. Even the crowd got silent at that. [color=fff79a]”.....Girl, do you have the slightest idea how little that narrows it down?”[/color] "[color=708c98][/color]" Narrowing her eyes, the spearwoman would march in place, like a bull before a charge, and brassy band started to play, as several cards appears with the music. "[color=708c98][/color]" Kerry had seconds to dodge a blistering fast thrust - aimed squarely for her nose. Fast. To a mind-boggling degree was the speed of the woman’s thrust that any other person would’ve fallen to such an opening attack. Kerry wasn’t any other person, but even so….[b]it was close[/b] Years of battle experience and fly-like instincts saved her as she snapped her head to the side, the spear mere inches from her cheek and slicing through her hair as it passed. Retaliating, Kerry shoulder-checked the woman, pushing her away while pulling Dusk from her back and pointing it at her now opponent, her face now dead serious. [color=fff79a]”Can I get the name of the woman who picked a fight with me?”[/color] The surrounding crowd erupted with renewed vigor. Finally, someone who didn’t go down instantly. Another duel was about to commence….and it will be one the town will talk about for years to come. "[color=708c98][/color]" came the answer, as the spearwoman flourished her spear. "[color=708c98][/color]" Brigette smirked, before she disappeared - appearing behind Kerry with her spear drawn straight back in an iaijutsu stance. "[color=708c98][/color]" The spear blade was coming like a sword swung. [color=fff79a][i]Holy shit, she’s fast![/i][/color] Again acting on instinct, Kerry jumped straight up, narrowly avoiding the swing. Flipping backwards in mid-air, she then thrusted downwards above Bridgette. [i]A moment of retreat[/i], one might think, as Bridgette streaked back, before suddenly moving forward; planting the blade of her spear into the earth, and lifting onto the heel with her palms. It was a sudden and unpredictable exchange of position and manipulation of her body - in one moment, she was a viable target for the straightforward ground assault, in the next, Kerry was kissing her heel, as it slammed into her, before Bridgette turned her handstand into handspring, and angled her heels to dive attack Kerry instead of the reverse. Kerry hit the ground with a grunt, head ringing from that incredible counterattack, but she had no time to rest with Bridgette diving at her. She quickly thrusted her hand and… [color=fff79a][i]”Cloudburst!”[/i][/color] A shotgun of wind slammed into Bridgette and sent her flying upwards. Getting back on her and not taking any more chances, the hornet pulled out Mort and javelin tossed it after the card woman before buzzing up after her, Dusk slapping back into her hand upon being called. Bridgette smirked, before a card appeared behind her, and swallowed her into a void. "[color=708c98][/color]" she says, behind Kerry. "[color=708c98][/color]" "[color=708c98]< -- vasion!>[/color]" Bridgette swung her spear from behind Kerry, while a card was dealt in front of her, and the same spear was being thrust at her. In a feat of quick thinking and athleticism, Kerry immediately twisted her body, arching her back as much as she could and avoiding the two fronted assault. Not done yet, she did a ‘come here’ gesture with her left hand, the silver bracelet vibrating as Mort came whistling in straight toward Bridgette. Bridgette cast her arm back; tossing her spear at the incoming missile, as it unfolded and unfurled into a card, and swallowed the spear, before folding back into her spear, and shrinking into a toothpick. "[color=708c98][/color]" she says, popping her spear between her lips, and adopting a new stance; crossing her right arm behind her back, as she extended her left arm forward, palm up and facing herself. "[color=708c98][/color]" Bridgette cracked her neck, "[color=708c98][/color]" she says, "[color=708c98][/color]" "[color=708c98][/color]" Bridgette smirked, as she removed her armored gloves and boots, "[color=708c98]<...can score every hit with your defensive spear. I won’t dodge a single hit. Even impalement.>[/color]" "[color=708c98][/color]" [color=fff79a]”Geez, look at you, figuring out my battle strats. Hasn’t your Queen taught you to not go babbling out a girl’s secrets?”[/color], Kerry replied, outwardly appearing to engage in mid-duel banter while, inwardly, her mind was going a mile a minute. Bridgette was right. Dusk was the spear best used in fights of attrition, for the long, methodical battles that’s more about whittling your opponent down bit by bit until the right decisive moment. For that, Mort was used, for delivering meaningful damage or ending the fight there and then. With only Dusk, Kerry was in for a long fight with a very tricky opponent, what with Mort being…stuck….inside….Bridgette’s…. [color=fff79a][i]Wait….Can I still…..[/i][/color] The hornet smirked. "[color=708c98][/color]" Bridgette says, marching in place, "[color=708c98][/color]" Bridgette stepped forward, before sending up her right knee - at the same time, a portal opened, and she punched Kerry squarely in the back with her hidden right arm to jolt her forward into the rising knee. [color=fff79a]”GHAAAA! YOU BITCH!”[/color], shrieked the merc, reeling from the cheap shot. [color=fff79a]”But you know what!? Handicap yourself all you want! I wouldn’t recommend it, though! After all…”[/color] She raised her left hand toward Bridgette, her pointer out. [color=fff79a]”....you put the one that hurts in there.”[/color] Her finger flicked inward, the silver bracelet vibrating. Bridgette smirked, as she angled her spear with her tongue. "[color=708c98][/color]" she asks, placing the spear between two fingers, "[color=708c98]<...before you are skewered?>[/color]" Bridgette flicked her spear forward at Kerry. Kerry replied by slashing with Dusk, deflecting the spear off course. Again, her left pointer finger beckoned to Mort, calling it back. Bridgette smiled, as her spear slipped into a card, and was course-corrected by another opening behind Kerry. "[color=708c98][/color]" Kerry gave no reply, spinning to dodge the spear from behind her, her instincts once more proving vital in this fight. Another flick of her finger. Another call to Mort. "[color=708c98][/color]" Bridgette seemed to be more entertained than annoyed, as she marched on, pleased as punch. "[color=708c98][/color]" she says, putting her foot through a card, as one appeared above Kerry’s head, "[color=708c98]<...you’ll fall all the same.>[/color]" Dodging the spear once more, Kerry’s antennae twitched as she immediately shifted to the side, avoiding the foot that came through the card above her before grabbing said foot and pulling. She didn’t stop calling to Mort. "[color=708c98][/color]" Bridgette says, before plunging through. "[color=708c98][/color]" she looked back, as her spear was returning; though, the card was unfurling - or rather, tearing. [color=fff79a][i]It’s working.[/i][/color] Now Kerry was smirking as she axe kicked Bridgette in the stomach, sending her downward before twirling Dusk to smack the incoming spear upwards. Flick. Call. Bridgette seemed catch off-guard, as she plummeted towards the ground; catching herself in a handstand, and looking up, as she flaunted her impressive body. ‘[color=708c98][i]My Queen, would you admonish me? Scold me for such dalliance? Or, would you be pleased with my games?[/i][/color]’ she wondered, as the card unfurled - tearing in two from the unyielding pressure of the offensive spear. ‘[color=708c98][i]How wondrous, though, that such minds can be found outside of your reform...[/i][/color]’ With the weapon finally free, Mort rocketed back toward its mistress, slapping back into her grasp. [color=fff79a]”Good to have you back!”[/color], said the hornet to the silver spear. [color=fff79a]”Now then….”[/color] Buzzing downwards, Kerry landed across from Bridgette. [color=fff79a]”Giving credit where it’s due: You are, by far, the trickiest opponent I’ve ever fought.”[/color] "[color=708c98][/color]" Bridgette says, as she bent forward with an eerie grace, and stood straight, extending her right hand, "[color=708c98][/color]" [color=fff79a]””Funny, at no point in that duel did I feel like I was losing either, but we’re gonna be here all day if we keep arguing like this, so you know what? Sure.”[/color], responded the merc as she walked forward, stashing her spears before shaking Bridgette’s hand with own. [color=fff79a]”If we ever meet again, let’s duel again. With all that we got, yeah?”[/color] "[color=708c98][/color]" Bridgette smiled, as card after card after card opened in the sky, a dome of fifty-two building around the little area, and each card projecting a spear like her own. "[color=708c98][/color]" she says, "[color=708c98][/color]" [color=fff79a]”Kerry Maros, Globe Trotter, Spears For Hire. Likewise.”[/color], she replied with a defiant smile that screamed ‘Challenge Accepted.’ Eyeing the dome of fifty-two spear-laced cards around them, it definitely would’ve taken one of Kerry’s more costly spells to counter. Something to train even harder for. [hr][/hider][hr][color=fff79a]”....After that, we both went our separate ways, wishing each other luck in our future endeavors.”[/color], Kerry concluded, wrapping up her story. "[color=976f29][i]To pull the Wild 52 out in plain sight, and even show off 52 Pick-up...[/i][/color]" Alice smirked, before moving on, "[color=976f29][i]I see you neglected the part where you slept with Bridge, but I'll forgive you. I already did so, and several times.[/i][/color]" "[color=976f29][i]They might be called a Queen's Personal Guard, but they are better at guarding the King's sword, if you know what I mean,[/i][/color]" Alice snickered. [color=fff79a]”Can you go five minutes without making a sexual innuendo?”[/color], said Kerry with a deadpanned expression. [color=fff79a]”And you’re still on that!? We did not sleep with each other!”[/color] "[color=976f29][i]And, yet, you have half her prized weapon,[/i][/color]" Alice says. "[color=976f29][i]Riddle me that.[/i][/color]" [color=fff79a]”It. Is. A. Memento! A gift for a well-fought and mostly honorable duel! Nothing more, nothing less!”[/color] Alice smirked, popping a smugness worth of an Elf, "[color=976f29][i]Stole it, then. Sneaky.[/i][/color]" [color=fff79a]”Stole it?”[/color], Kerry tilted her head, confused. [color=fff79a]”Ali, why would I steal it?”[/color] "[color=976f29][i]Dear, would you give away one of your wings,[/i][/color]" Alice asks, "[color=976f29][i]That's a part of Bridge's Card, a part of her body, and you possess it.[/i][/color]" It would seem there was some cultural confusion, but, also... a means to track the Trumpart for the tracking specialist. [color=fff79a]”Part of her body? But that means…….Wait here.”[/color] Kerry would take off back toward the temple. A minute later, she returned with the broken handle in question. [color=fff79a]”I can still sense her aura on this, even after all these years. Alice, I…..I think I can find her with this.”[/color] "[color=976f29][i]Eh? What do you mean,[/i][/color]" Alice asks, lifting off Kerry, and reforming her normal clothes. [color=fff79a]”W-Whoa, easy!”[/color], stammered the hornet, blushing as she was picked up by Alice. [color=fff79a]”I have an Echidna mother, remember? That means not only can I use magic, I can also detect magical energies/auras and track them back to the source. It means I can find Bridgette. And by extension…”[/color] [color=fff79a]”....Even find a way to Wonderland.”[/color] "[color=976f29][i]How curious. My wife is part bloodhound, it seems,[/i][/color]" Alice says, preening her left antenna, "[color=976f29][i]Can you bark for me, puppy,[/i][/color]" she purred, before looking into the distance, "[color=976f29][i]...and dig up some diamonds?[/i][/color]" [color=fff79a]”I am not a dog.”[/color], grunted Kerry, shivering as her lover caressed one of her antennae. [color=fff79a]”Oh yeah, Bridge did refer to herself as the ‘Third Diamond’. I’m guessing they’re your royal court?”[/color] "[color=976f29][i]Shame. I like dogs,[/i][/color]" Alice says, "[color=976f29][i]And, they serve that role, yes.[/i][/color]" [color=fff79a]”How many are there?”[/color] "[color=976f29][i]A story for another day,[/i][/color]" Alice says, setting Kerry down, "[color=976f29][i]I’m tired of dancing...[/i][/color]" [color=fff79a]”Awww, I was curious.”[/color], pouted the hornet, not wanting to admit that she wanted to be carried by Alice a little longer. [color=fff79a]”But yeah, we should probably get ready to take on the Heavenly Strike quest today.”[/color] "[color=976f29][i]That is true. Perhaps, I’ll do a little marching,[/i][/color]" Alice says, stretching her Rolling arms. "[color=976f29][i]Lift your leg for a moment.[/i][/color]" Raising an inquisitive eyebrow at the request, Kerry complied and lifted her right leg to waist level. Alice smirked, before she stooped down, and slipped Kerry’s boot back on. "[color=976f29][i]Don’t blink, Cinderella,[/i][/color]" she says, "[color=976f29][i]I could just disappear.[/i][/color]" Kerry blushed at the comment. “...I-Idiot.” She couldn’t stop the smile from appearing on her face. Alice would lift her other foot, and repeat. "[color=976f29][i]Mad, but same difference, so I’m told...[/i][/color]" she smirked. Rolling her eyes at the statement, Kerry lifted her right hand, black bracelet humming as Dusk returned to her. “You took on this quest before, by yourself. How many of those students were there?” "[color=976f29][i]Three, and I beat them all,[/i][/color]" Alice says, "[color=976f29][i]Burn that technique into my flesh, but... bleeding out sucks.[/i][/color]" [color=fff79a]”Hopefully, this time around, you won’t have to resort to such drastic measures again.”[/color], Kerry commented as she stashed her spear. [color=fff79a]”Er……Hey, do you….remember? Before you left? I….yelled at you.”[/color] "[color=976f29][i]That’s history to bring up so suddenly,[/i][/color]" Alice says, "[color=976f29][i]Yeah, I do. Just got done with a mental breakdown, Shizuka sleeping with Carroll, and almost burning to death for the second time in my life, only this time, out at sea with a buncha Varjans...[/i][/color]" she says, before shrugging, "[color=976f29][i]Life. Anyways, why the ask?[/i][/color]" Upon hearing the factors that had been affecting her lover that day, Kerry was, once again, feeling guilt and regret for what she had inadvertently caused. [color=fff79a]”Okay, I definitely deserved getting decked in the face after hearing that.”[/color], she bemoaned, hands on her face as she began pacing. [color=fff79a]”Oh my gods, what the fuck is wrong with me!? First the monk and now this!”[/color] "[color=976f29][i]First, calm down, or I’ll bonk you,[/i][/color]" Alice says, raising her left hand, "[color=976f29][i]Secondly, what monk? Was she hot?[/i][/color]" [color=fff79a]”Please don’t do that!”[/color], Kerry relented, covering her head in defense. [color=fff79a]”Also, the monk was a guy. A guy…that…I…..s-s-stole from.”[/color] "[color=976f29][i]So...[/i][/color]" Alice asks, confused. "[color=976f29][i]Mercs aren’t known for their stellar wit and charm. Still, you seem to be kicking yourself over there, so...[/i][/color]" Alice hummed, "[color=976f29][i]If only for a moment, as this seems to carry some baggage you’ve been ignoring.[/i][/color]" [color=fff79a]”I’m fully aware of my occupation’s reputation, Alice. I don’t need you to lecture me.”[/color], retorted the hornet before looking down in thought. [color=fff79a]”It’s just…..[i]sigh[/i].....I used to not care about it.”[/color] "[color=976f29][i]If that’s a lecture, I’d hate to find out your opinion on a scolding,[/i][/color]" Alice says, "[color=976f29][i]Irregardless, logically speaking, it’s less of a matter of you didn’t used to not care, but that you didn’t have a reason to care,[/i][/color]" she says, tutting a finger, "[color=976f29][i]Someone went and got herself all preggo, and now she has a baby to impress. You’re growing up. All you need to do is apologize and make right.[/i][/color]" [color=fff79a]”....Yeah….”[/color] Her hand laid upon her belly. As always, a gentle pulse greeted her. [color=fff79a]”You’re right about that. I mean, it’s the mercenary life, you know? As long as you know how to fight, there will always be someone out willing to pay you a pretty penny for you to do what you do best. And you and I both know that there are too many people like that.”[/color] "[color=976f29][i]Unfortunately,[/i][/color]" Alice says, "[color=976f29][i]Such is why I seek reform. To create a world of self-control and potential, so I might never lose another friend, or daughter,[/i][/color]" she says, looking to the sky, "[color=976f29][i]A world were mercenaries aren't needed is a world that shines ever-brilliant.[/i][/color]" Kerry almost cried when Alice said that. [color=fff79a]”A world where mercenaries aren’t needed….”[/color] The hornet looked down further, a shadow now obscuring her eyes. [color=fff79a]”I’ve done things I’m not proud of, Alice. I’ve fought in wars I’ve never should’ve fought and I’ve done things I never should’ve done. My hands are stained in the blood of those who deserved it…..and those who did not. Like you said, I didn’t have a reason to care. As long as I got paid, so what if a family lost a loved one? So what if a village’s harvest is ruined? It was so easy to care about only myself……”[/color] [color=fff79a]”.....and then I came here.”[/color] Alice listened. In a game of one-upmanship, Kerry would never win. Under her belt, she fell kingdoms, took them, and brought them to obey, resulting in punishment and death. The blood she split to her cause could fill oceans, and all the blame would rest on her shoulders. It was for her cause that lives started and ended, children were born, adults died, in a neverending rebellion for the promise of reformation. To war, she led them. In ruin, she left them. In the game of blame, centuries of fingers would find her at fault... "[color=976f29][i]Dwelling in the past is a good way to stay shackled to it. If you remain shackled here, you'll be a victim of history, and that's no way to be for Gwen,[/i][/color]" Alice says, opting for brevity. Her darkness had no business casting shade over Kerry. [color=fff79a]”I know…”[/color] Her grip on her belly tightened. Another pulse. [color=fff79a]”For her….For us….I have to be better…”[/color] Kerry raised her head, the shadow disappearing as Alice saw the emotions swirling within those hazel eyes. Love. Guilt. Determination. Regret. Understanding…..and knowing. Knowing that, for all that Kerry had done in her life….was a drop in the ocean to what Alice had done. [color=fff79a]”....[i]We[/i] have to be better.”[/color] "[color=976f29][i]Better is just how I strive to be, so that's easy enough,[/i][/color]" Alice smirked. Kerry returned the smile with her own, the weight on shoulders lightening. [color=fff79a]”Ready to head back? The others will be waiting.”[/color] "[color=976f29]I think so,[/color]" Alice says, before shifting down, and scooping Kerry off her feet, "[color=0F52BA]I'd say, breakfast is in order for the three of us.[/color]" [color=fff79a]”I can walk there on my own just fine, Cecilia!”[/color], complained the hornet with a blush, though she made no effort in freeing herself from being carried. Cecilia chuckled, as they headed back to their room to start the homesteading chore of making break as lovers, no more, but Husband and Wife...[/hider][hr][hider=Can You Go Fishing In The Dating Pool? (Collab with The Irish Tree)]As Eula would awaken, she would find herself trapped by a hug upon her bed, as Carroll held her close, arms draped over her shoulders; the bigger of two spoons. A sleeping Carroll had opted to crease their dine 'n dash spree after it became painfully apparent that the appeal was being neutered by their connection to the Taskforce. There was no chase. No thrill. No reason. It wasn't anything rebellious about being allowed to eat and leave. So, with her evening spoiled, Carroll had opted to stop pushing herself to perform, and retire until the morning. Not at all minding being trapped, Eula would take her time to observe and touch Carroll, curious as to her new form. It was taller, and…well, different. Complexion, facial structure, scent, bust size, hip size…well, those could be verified later. For now, Eula was only concerned on keeping her company, feeling guilty for their attempted dine and dashing to be met with only playful chuckling from storekeeps. Carroll moved, little bits at a time, with each exploratory touch and tap, but she didn’t wake. Eula would honor her biological needs and keep from disturbing her, just quietly watching her slumber away the wee hours of the morning. Eventually, the sword would awaken, and come to slowly. Eula would be waiting there for her, keeping her eyes closed so…y’know. She wasn’t staring into her soul upon wake-up. She’d gotten all the data she needed an hour ago. "[color=808080][i]Tired...[/i][/color]" Carroll yawned. Eula would rise up a bit and gently wrap her arms around Carroll’s back, rubbing along her spine. [color=C48BD3][b]"You and Alice did go rather overboard fighting that fairy."[/b][/color] "[color=808080][i]Alice did that, not me...[/i][/color]" Carroll says, "[color=808080][i]I’m just an innocent sword.[/i][/color]" Unconvinced at all, Eula would pinch Carroll’s cheek. [color=C48BD3][b]"Oho? So a combination of your powers has no involvement from you [i]at all?[/i]"[/b][/color] "[color=808080][i]Indeed,[/i][/color]" Carroll says, "[color=808080][i]I am as innocent as I am humble.[/i][/color]" Eula smiled and released her cheek, holding Carroll close. Carroll chuckled, "[color=808080][i]Now, what would you like to do this morning, milady?[/i][/color]" [color=C48BD3][b]"We’re participating in the Heavenly Strike quest, correct? Would we have time for anything?"[/b][/color] "[color=808080][i]It's not like we can depart without Alice. This is her quest, so we leave in her go,[/i][/color]" Carroll says, "[color=808080][i]and her go is whenever she pleases.[/i][/color]" Eula would nod and look at Carroll once more. [color=C48BD3][b]"My idea last night didn’t pan out so…why don’t we do what you’d like until its time?"[/b][/color] "[color=808080][i]Me? I'm not quite that interesting, though,[/i][/color]" Carroll says, "[color=808080][i]However, there is something I would like to do...[/i][/color]" [color=C48BD3][b]"Yes?"[/b][/color] "[color=808080][i]It's boring, I warn you,[/i][/color]" Carroll says, as she got up, and looked back. Eula smiled and sat up on the bed. [color=C48BD3][b]"I don’t mind."[/b][/color] Carroll would twirl one of her ringlet locks around her right pointer finger, as it unwound into a long reel, and she caught a hook between her thumb and pointer, before beaming. "[color=808080][i]Wanna go fishing, then,[/i][/color]" she asks. Eula looked interested and stood up. [color=C48BD3][b]"I am lacking in equipment, but I would enjoy that."[/b][/color] "[color=808080][i] Luckily, I am not,[/i][/color]" Carroll says, extending her right hand, and showing off the transformed length of hair would flex with the movement of her finger, as if she was reeling and slacking the line. "[color=808080][i]Think you can handle holding my hand for a few hours?[/i][/color]" Eula blushed at the lewd proposition, before nodding and extending a hand to be held. Carroll would take her hand, and kiss it, before spiriting Eula towards a river she'd recalled on the warpath as Dinah; the path the Possessed took was clear from the felled trees and sundered earth. However, the river continued on, as if its route hadn't been revised. As she sat on a tree, Carroll would settle Eula in her lap, and leave her to cast the line. In this position Eula would snuggle in, blushing as she casted the line, holding tightly onto Carroll’s hand. [color=C48BD3][b]"...This is…quite a unique fishing position."[/b][/color] "[color=808080][i]Sword Devils are very stationary hunters. We can spend decades into centuries in one spot, wait for a suitable woman to pass by,[/i][/color]" Carroll says, her right hand twitching in subtle way, as her hook flowed with the river, "[color=808080][i]Patience is key. As such, we become proficient anglers. Just awaiting...[/i][/color]" Carroll blew upon Eula's neck, "[color=808080][i]...the one.[/i][/color]" Eula nearly short-circuited as Carroll blew on her neck, hand twitching a bit. "[color=808080][i]However, catching the one...[/i][/color]" Carroll kissed her right "pulse point", "[color=808080][i]...is no simple feat. A Sword Devil has to be crafty, has to understand her one...[/i][/color]" Carroll kissed higher, upon her right jaw, "[color=808080][i]...and what kind of bait would call her to bite.[/i][/color]" Carroll nipped Eula's earlobe. Eula outright jerked the rod out from her nervous twitch as her ear was stimulated, eyes getting clouded with static. [color=C48BD3][b]"O-Overheat!"[/b][/color] "[color=808080][i]Ara ara~[/i][/color]" Carroll purred, as Eula reeled. "[color=808080][i]A bit premature there. Nothing's bitten me yet.[/i][/color]" Eula fidgeted in Carroll’s lap, her smaller frame scrunching up a bit in embarrassment as she hugged her knees. [color=C48BD3][b]"...M-My apologies…"[/b][/color] "[color=808080][i]How cute...[/i][/color]" Carroll says, "[color=808080][i]However, I don't simply want cute. I don't want... a confused experiment,[/i][/color]" she says, "[color=808080][i]I screwed up the best thing I had, damned myself to lose it all, and I don't want to use to as a rebound.[/i][/color]" Carroll held Eula close with her left hand. "[color=808080][i]I want us to be serious, but I need to know that you understand what that means...[/i][/color]" she says, "[color=808080][i]...for you and for me.[/i][/color]" Eula would relax a bit against Carroll, holding her left hand over Carroll’s left. [color=C48BD3][b]"Serious…?"[/b][/color] "[color=808080][i]A relationship. A true courtship and living as, not just lovers, but Husband and Wife,[/i][/color]" Carroll says, "[color=808080][i]Not as a replacement for Io, nor as an experiment to understand what Love is, but as two Mamono that live for each other, earnestly.[/i][/color]" Eula was quiet for a few moments before she would slowly net her fingers with Carroll’s. [color=C48BD3][b]"I…I’m not sure just yet…even peering into your memories, there’s still so much we don’t know about one another. I barely know myself."[/b][/color] "[color=808080][i]That's what I'm getting at. I want to take this on correctly,[/i][/color]" Carroll says, "[color=808080][i]I'm not like Alice. I can't just sleep with someone, then plunge into their life forever. I'm slow-going, I guess.[/i][/color]" Eula would nod in understanding, before looking at Carroll at an upwards angle. [color=C48BD3][b]"So then…is it fine to continue as we are for now? Or did you have something in mind?"[/b][/color] "[color=808080][i]I always have something in mind, but a relationship is between two, and I, alone, am one,[/i][/color]" Carroll says, "[color=808080][i]So, we make decisions together.[/i][/color]" Eula would nod before saying: [color=C48BD3][b]"I would like to keep exploring these feelings. I want to get to know you better, and to keep protecting people by your side."[/b][/color] "[color=808080][i]That's something I'd be glad to do,[/i][/color]" Carroll says, "[color=808080][i]However, there is one problem that you have to take with the utmost seriousness,[/i][/color]" she says, "[color=808080][i]I have a goal, and that goal will take me home. If you follow me, you'll never return here. You'll live and die in Wonderland. Can you do that, truly?[/i][/color]" [color=C48BD3][b]"Is there truly no coming back from Wonderland? You’ve returned from it."[/b][/color] Eula questioned. "[color=808080][i]I was born there,[/i][/color]" Carroll says, "[color=808080][i]I am immune to Wonderlust, the draw of Wonderland, once a foreigner has come and gone,[/i][/color]" she says, "[color=808080][i]The corruption makes the body ache and carve returning. Like homesickness on steroids.[/i][/color]" Eula looked a bit hesitant. [color=C48BD3][b]"...There is still a lot of world for me to visit…"[/b][/color] "[color=808080][i]Indeed,[/i][/color]" Carroll says, "[color=808080][i]I cannot make you follow me. However, I cannot stay behind, once that door opens...[/i][/color]" [color=C48BD3][b]"...I…"[/b][/color] Eula didn’t have an answer. It was a gargantuan thing to ask of someone either way, for either of them to ask the other. …To never return, for either, might be worse than anything. "[color=808080][i]Difficult things are why I fish,[/i][/color]" Carroll says. [color=C48BD3][b]"I don’t understand,"[/b][/color] Eula admitted. "[color=808080][i]Fishing is a quiet activity, something that gives time in spades to think,[/i][/color]" Carroll says. Eula nodded before quietly staring at the water once more. Carroll relaxed, playing an idle game of footsie with Eula, as the cool water ran over their toes. Eula wasn’t reciprocating, lost in thought as she gave everything serious consideration. Carroll was patient. Eula would tune back in, sooner or later. [color=C48BD3][b]"...What is Wonderland like?"[/b][/color] she finally asked, breaking her silence. "[color=808080][i]Last I saw it, primitive, simple, backwards, even, yet functionally itself,[/i][/color]" Carroll says, "[color=808080][i]A land divided into four nations around a central, ruling capital.[/i][/color]" [color=C48BD3][b]"And the food?"[/b][/color] "[color=808080][i]Depends on where you go. Nine races, all with their own cultures, after all,[/i][/color]" Carroll says, "[color=808080][i]You'd likely never try everything to be found.[/i][/color]" [color=C48BD3][b]"...I can live with that,"[/b][/color] Eula said with a nod. "[color=808080][i]Oh,[/i][/color]" Carroll asks, still playing, as she waited. Eula said: [color=C48BD3][b]"If I were to never eat something unique again, I may get upset. But if you’re saying Wonderlandian cuisine is that diverse, I’d be fine with going."[/b][/color] "[color=808080][i]Well, I'd like to think so,[/i][/color]" Carroll says. Eula would finally play once more, leaning back against Carroll. [color=C48BD3][b]"It may sound superficial, but it is something important to me. But…Wonderland can sustain that."[/b][/color] "[color=808080][i]Superficial is only limited to the surface,[/i][/color]" Carroll says, "[color=808080][i]If it means something to you, then it is a part of your core,[/i][/color]" she swatted Eula’s foot, and lied back - trapping her in a hug. "[color=808080][i]And that’s perfectly fine by me.[/i][/color]" Eula would struggle a bit before settling into the hug, nuzzling the back of her head against Carroll’s shoulder. [color=C48BD3][b]"Even something that trivial…?"[/b][/color] "[color=808080][i]You worry so much over nothing,[/i][/color]" Carroll says, letting the water wash over their dangling legs. "[color=808080][i]I won’t hate you for being unique.[/i][/color]" Eula couldn’t fight that statement, or that promise as she relaxed against Carroll, closing her eyes. [color=C48BD3][b]"...This fishing stance is even stranger than the last one."[/b][/color] "[color=808080][i]Easier for me to mess with you,[/i][/color]" Carroll smirked, as she clasped Eula’s left foot between both of her, and raised it up with her legs. "[color=808080][i]Gotcha~[/i][/color]" [color=C48BD3][b]"Am I the fish now,"[/b][/color] Eula asked. "[color=808080][i]Maybe,[/i][/color]" Carroll says. "[color=808080][i]I seem to have you hooked.[/i][/color]" Eula would smile, then remind Carroll of her automaton strength as she hugged back and picked her up. The fish was biting back. "[color=808080][i]Careful, now, Miss Rowdy,[/i][/color]" Carroll says, "[color=808080][i]We might even up in the drink, if you try to show off.[/i][/color]" Eula said: [color=C48BD3][b]"Not showing off. Simply getting into character. Fish always fight back when reeled."[/b][/color] "[color=808080][i]Roleplay, huh,[/i][/color]" Carroll asks. "[color=808080][i]I’ll have to oblige, then,[/i][/color]" she smirked, before she lost her skin color and texture, "[color=808080][i]Time to reel you in~[/i][/color]" [color=C48BD3][b]"This date has become convoluted,"[/b][/color] Eula said with a giggle. "[color=808080][i]Indeed,[/i][/color]" Carroll says, before she turned into slime, and slithered around Eula; over her skin and under her clothes, twisting and twining between her fingers and toes, before drawing tight and snug against her. "[color=808080][i]Can you escape the net, my little fishie?[/i][/color]" Eula both sincerely didn’t want to hurt Carroll, and doubted she could break the net, and as such would flop around, eyes going cross. [color=C48BD3][b]"Glub glub."[/b][/color] Possibly, her worst mistake, as Carroll would erupt into a raucous laughter that would vibrate her entire body. Eula would just puff her cheeks up, feeling absolutely ridiculous as Carroll vibrated. "[color=808080][i]That was hilarious![/i][/color]" Carroll says. Eula would keep her cheeks puffed, emulating how fish run out of breath when out of water as she wiggled around in the net. Her method acting was having the opposite effect. Carroll was absolutely enthralled by her play-acting. Eula would eventually cease moving, imitating the final moments of a fish’s life. Farewell, fish mother…fish father…little fish sister…she was coming to the great beyond. Someday they would meet again! Carroll snickered, "[color=808080][i]So dramatic.[/i][/color]" Letting her neck go limp, the method acting was complete as Eula “died” in Carroll’s net. Carroll giggled, as she trailed kisses up Eula’s nape. Eula did her best not to react since she was under the impression immersion was important, remaining still and dead. "[color=808080][i]Breathe, my mermaid,[/i][/color]" Carroll whispered. "[color=808080][i]I miss you so.[/i][/color]" Eula sat up. [color=C48BD3][b]"I don’t think I enjoy being a fish very much."[/b][/color] "[color=808080][i]I thought it was very cute,[/i][/color]" Carroll says. "[color=808080][i]However, I like this,[/i][/color]" she would palm Eula’s chest, her presence like a phantom, "[color=808080][i]I’m a spooky ghost, now.[/i][/color]" Her chest being touched just reminded Eula of those brigands who insisted that she was unattractive, causing the automaton to reflexively puff her cheeks up and look irritated. "[color=808080][i]Something wrong,[/i][/color]" Carroll asks, "[color=808080][i]Normally, you get cute, not grumpy, when I touch you.[/i][/color]" [color=C48BD3][b]"...Nothing. Just remembering something rude someone said,"[/b][/color] Eula said. [color=C48BD3][b]"Executing cuteness protocol,"[/b][/color] she said before throwing her head back and pressing the back of her hand against her forehead. [color=C48BD3][b]"Is this sufficient?"[/b][/color] "[color=808080][i]Cuteness is a protocol,[/i][/color]" Carroll says, "[color=808080][i]And, who insulted you, so I can stab them?[/i][/color]" [color=C48BD3][b]"Irrelevant. I just want to enjoy my time with you now rather than dwell on it,"[/b][/color] Eula said. "[color=808080][i]It’s very relevant. It clearly hurt you,[/i][/color]" Carroll says, before peeling away; a two-dimension figure in a three-dimensional world. "[color=808080][i]Eula, do you not think you’re cute?[/i][/color]" Eula looked away, folding her arms. [color=C48BD3][b]"...I never considered myself to be. In a world of organic beings, ones with souls and identities, everything about me has come from…something else. I was created somewhere I don’t remember, by people I can’t recall, for a purpose I cannot remember. Cute was…something far from what I thought myself to be."[/b][/color] "[color=808080][i]How objectively, subjectively, and adjectively, foolish a thought,[/i][/color]" Carroll says, "[color=808080][i]Organic. Inorganic. Soulborne. Soulless. Identified. Mysterious. Purposeful. Purposeless. Created. Born. Remembered. Forgotten. No matter the thing, the word, or the concept, cute is cute if cute is cute, and you are cute to me.[/i][/color]" Eula would stifle a chuckle. [color=C48BD3][b]"Why ask me if I thought I was or not, then?"[/b][/color] "[color=808080][i]Because,[/i][/color]" Carroll held her cheeks in her hands, "[color=808080][i]Nobody’s opinion is more important than your own. If you don’t believe you’re cute, nobody will.[/i][/color]" Eula would freeze up as her cheeks were held, and she would look down at herself, at her steel arms, her body, and finally herself reflected in Carroll’s eyes. [color=C48BD3][b]"...I would prefer a more…mature word…but I don’t think I’m ugly."[/b][/color] "[color=808080][i]Then, i’ll refer to you are elegant, henceforth,[/i][/color]" Carroll says, "[color=808080][i]Eula the Elegant.[/i][/color]" Eula smiled, before hugging Carroll. [color=C48BD3][b]"I will have to think of something endearing to call you, now."[/b][/color] "[color=808080][i]Don’t overthink it,[/i][/color]" she says, before unbinding entirely. Eula would nod, before closing her eyes. [color=C48BD3][b]"...We still haven’t caught any fish, thinking about it."[/b][/color] "[color=808080][i]True, but, that’s fishing,[/i][/color]" Carroll says, "[color=808080][i]Sometimes, it’s more about the experience that the reward.[/i][/color]" Eula nodded, before lifting Carroll up in her arms. [color=C48BD3][b]"Then…I suppose its time for us to head back, and get ready, then?"[/b][/color] "[color=808080][i]After breakfast, I feel,[/i][/color]" Carroll says. Eula would nod, before carrying Carroll back, more than ready to have a good meal before marching off to fight. Carroll would regard the Automaton in silence. There was a sense of confidence and stability in their relationship - it wasn’t perfect, but nothing was. However, it would seem that some doubts had been lifting, and, for now... that was good enough.[/hider]