Hero

Pariah Online: A Voyage into the Intangible Aether

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Well, there was definitely one person that worried him more than Graves and Rael. The Augustine chick radiated the same energy a lot of his high school's mean girls' clique, and Kazuki immediately made a note to steer clear. Anyone that would willingly roleplay an asshole was usually bad news, anyway. Did that mean they now had three problem players? Well, he was sure Kazuma could handle it.

At the very least someone else demanded his attention right now: the red head saying things he understood in his native language. He still didn't know how the whole language thing worked, but anytime he found his fellow countrymen, it was always a nice surprise. It was also a good heads up to let him know Kazuma couldn't just scold him in Japanese without drawing more attention than usual. However, even that wasn't important: what was important was that Kazuki was presented with a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, something that only ever happened once in a blue moon, like a shooting star, or a bully getting their comeuppance.

Outwardly, Kazuki wasn't any different than usual, though he did take a few steps to get as close to Rael as he could. Leaning in close, he made sure that she was the only one that could hear what he was saying: "はじめまして、ラエルちゃん." Even if he wasn't one hundred percent certain of its effectiveness, he was sure of one thing for sure: this was definitely going to do something.

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Pariah Online: A Voyage into the Intangible Aether

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Group B with Benkei in charge. Welp, he was going to have a field day and stress himself out so much he was gonna give himself an aneurysm. And of course they were stuck with the Dynamic Duo. This could get tricky on butting heads and clashing personalities alone, let alone whatever new stuff is happening. It was just a disaster waiting to happen, wasn't it? He supposed he should be ready to support his brother, but would that make things worse? Obviously he wouldn't be here if it wasn't for Kazuma, but maybe the group would see it as nepotism. Or worse, Kazuma would see it as Kazuki trying to show him up. How troublesome...

Kazuki finished up organizing everything he needed to, glad to hear that they were finally starting things up. One by one, the party members started to assemble, though he was a little disappointed that Priscilica left so quickly. He did give her a small wave before turning to the first one that had showed up. It wasn't often that he got to party up with a support caster, though it meant he was going to have to take care of all the healing. He could already feel Benkei's lecture incoming, much to his dismay.

Still, he offered Seele a small wave back, figuring he may as well introduce himself. "Kazuki. Healer. Nice to meet you," He didn't have much to say yet, but he figured that was as good a start as any.

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Of Blood and Magic

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Eris was so sure no one would hate Benson more than he did, but boy oh boy was Countess Marivaldi absolutely wringing the Eve. He was going to have an absolute field day tomorrow, there was so much to choose from he really considered just letting the rumors fly en masse. Honestly, he couldn't decide whose expression was his favorite, whether it was the Countess doing some weird mixture of pity and a sad attempt and anger, or the pure befuddlement from the count.

And then the other count whose existence he had nearly forgotten decided to pile onto it. He needed some sort of translator for this guy, he never understood a word he said nor did he understand his intentions. Well, that wasn't entirely true, he had a sneaking suspicion that Count Astorio had one thing in common with the countess: neither one of them could socialize their way out of a paper bag. It was actually fascinating to watch two polar opposites completely miss the tone of the room and make such pathetic efforts that if it wasn't for the fact that Varis had organized this, he would've honestly believed it was amateur hour. Count Salazar had his work cut out for him, and as for the Astorio...well, it was a good thing no one looked at him expecting to socialize.

The blond had to trace the rim of his cup, doing his damnest not to roll off his chair laughing. It was incredible in the absolute worst way, no matter how much Wells bitched at the pointlessness of the night, it had all been worth it to watch the absolute disaster of a conversation. The only thing that could top the night was a juicy secret revealed, but that wasn't happening. After getting better control of his clearly audible chuckling, Eris let himself indulge in the cup. Wow, Sunny tasted better than expected. Eris raised his eyebrows as he stopped drinking to look at the glass, letting out a small 'hmm' of approval and deciding to polish off the glass. Best of the night, clearly, though he couldn't help but muse the albino was a close second, if only because he had basically forgotten what the others were.

"Probably for the better; I don't think Plant Boy can top this," Eris outright told the table as he put his empty glass down. Yeah, yeah, he already knew Varis didn't want him defending the kid, but whatever, it was the truth.

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Pariah Online: A Voyage into the Intangible Aether

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The only community Kazuki was involved in was the artisan community--and even then he was only active there because of his smithery. Other than that, none of the names Kazuma rattled off rung any bells, except maybe the Enos one considering anytime his name came up in a conversation it was usually followed by a comment stating that he should study him. It wasn't that Kazuki never did, but there was something about the way the guy played that didn't really match up with how Kazuki wanted to play. Enos was fine, yeah, but Kazuki felt like if he played the way this guy did he'd end up messing up or something.

But again, Kazuki kept his thoughts to himself. At hearing Kazuma compare himself to another tank, however, Kazuki couldn't help his concern. He was brushed off as usual, but he felt like he should say something. Then again, it'd likely lead to another argument, and even if Kazuki couldn't care less how people saw him, clearly Kazuma had some sort of reputation, so it wouldn't do to cause any unneeded tension.

"Okay," was all Kazuki offered, bringing up his inventory and focusing on that for a moment instead.

The silence didn't linger long as someone joined them, but what surprised Kazuki was that they looked familiar. Wow, he actually recognized someone, Kazuma would be proud. She confirmed her name as much, and after a brief realization that this was the one Kazuma mentioned earlier, gave her a small nod. Not like he had anything of value to add to the conversation. He did, however, decide to double check his inventory at her suggestion.

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①⑨⑥⑧

S T A R F I R E

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What is insurance?

It was strange that the first question that came to mind for Koriand'r was the mention of it. It seemed the idioms of this planet still left some holes in translation, although the blue one made it clear that this was not his home. Good, she now had a clear conscience and was no longer concerned at potentially damage property belonging to a (now) friendly face. More importantly, she was more than glad to hear he would help her! Until he decided to put on his shell once again. Even he seemed surprised; perhaps he too was an adolescent of this world still learning what he could and could not do. This planet started late on honing their natural abilities, it seemed.

What really got her curious, however, was that now that she could understand what he was saying, she noticed that he talked to himself a lot. Perhaps vocalizing their thoughts was a common practice here, but that would mean any potential enemies would be able to use that information to turn it against them. It could be some code of honor for them?

Koriand'r watched him with mild amusement (and a touch of confusion), though she was very interested in how his arm had morphed. Fascinating, he could change the shape of his shell on a whim! And into a weapon to boot! She definitely approved, albeit she was just a little worried at the mention of a threat. She should have figured the Psions would follow her here, but she had no intentions of going back peacefully. Just the thought was enough to put her on edge, immediately clenching her fists as she looked around for them.

But there weren't any Gordanians in the sky, instead one sole person clad in green. She found it very interesting that the people on this planet had an affinity for one color each. Still, a threat was a threat, and Koriand'r was more than eager to fight if need be. The symbol on his chest looked vaguely familiar, but it wasn't until the man spoke that it clicked in her mind. It was a long time ago, but she definitely knew that he did not belong. It was possible that things have changed during her imprisonment, but she was certain that news would have reached the Citadel immediately.

"I believe it is you that cannot 'park there'," Koriand'r told the newcomer. "The Green Lantern Corps is expressly forbidden from entering the Vega star system. What business have you here?"

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_{@Asura@DocTachyon}

Pariah Online: A Voyage into the Intangible Aether

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New content. Raid. Parasites--no, that had nothing to do with what he was talking about. More people were pouring in, and by the sounds of it, making some noise. For whatever reason the game had a tendency to attract the kind of people that were better off getting some anger management. Not that it surprised him; if they couldn't get what they needed from reality, obviously they would turn to fantasy to fulfill their wishes. The game had a way of stirring competitiveness, too, which he was sure didn't help things. Ultimately, however, it wasn't any of his business nor did he really care, so he ignored it for the most part.

Kazuki stared at Kazuma as he spoke, not really getting any of it but nodding to avoid another lecture. He supposed he didn't have much else to do since he had finished his previous commissions, but something about dungeons really bothered Kazuki. The try-hards were usually up his ass and the randoms they got grouped with were annoying as all hell, and the times Kazuma ended up getting into fights with them never went well.

At his last comment, Kazuki realized he was right--he could see a little of the fight with some short red haired girl and a bulky samurai. He really hoped neither of the pair ended up in their party, but with his luck, they'd end up with at least one of them. If he had to choose, the samurai seemed like the lesser of two evils; that chick was giving him the worst warning flags and he had a tendency to anger her type by doing nothing, so he would rather avoid the trouble.

"Here's hoping for a conflict-free party," He indulged Kazuma's comment with one of his own, even if he was acutely aware any conflict he'd be dealing with would be from Kazuma-Benkei. "Things should start before we end up losing members, though..."

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Pariah Online: A Voyage into the Intangible Aether

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The strum of the lute came naturally to Kazuki, the hum on his lips leading to a quaint melody. It was a small song and dance, but one that had drawn in the attention of nearly everyone on the road. In hindsight, perhaps he should have had more appropriate clothing, but as always it was less about what he looked like and more about the results. It was an old folk song, one of the first he had ever learned to play, but the difference between strumming keys and strumming strings were two completely different experiences. That said, the result was the same: music.

At the last note, there was a polite applause from the few that had stuck around to watch, finishing up as Kazuki came up from his bow. The sound of a few coins (or whatever the currency was called, he always forgot) entering his inventory nearly muted the tone indicating he had a message and took a second to fiddle around with the console. Whoops, he had definitely lost track of time. If it was up to him, he'd use all of his free time to perform--there was nothing like piecing together notes to pass the hours--but unfortunately the main focus of the game was dungeons and battle, which meant that he was usually dragged along whenever his brother called for him.

After mistakenly striking up a conversation with a nonplayer character and ending up at the wrong place, Kazuki had done as Benkei suggested and actually followed the waypoint. He was surprised to see a lot of people gathered already, openly looking around as he walked through the place. Was everyone here for the...what were they going to do? Explore? Scouting. Something, who knows. Eventually the familiar face stood out from the crowd, and Kazuki openly approached him.

"I'm here," Kazuki said as he tapped Benkei's shoulder, taking a look around. "It looks like I'm in time for...what are we doing here again?"

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Pariah Online: A Voyage into the Intangible Aether

The RP begins, and soon the question of who isn't pulling their weight as DPS and Healers need to adjust will begin flooding the story

@DruSM157

Pariah Online: A Voyage into the Intangible Aether

_______________________________________________ // INFO I R L Full Name - Kazuki Hoshizawa [星澤 和希] Age - 18 Place of Origin - Japan Occupation - High School Student A V A T A R Character's Name - Kazuki Pathos Affiliation - Queon Role - Healer Profession - Wandering Minstrel Weapon of Choice - Book Domains - Wind, Restoration + Protection - // PERSONALITY P E R S O N A L I T Y Stoic Good news, bad news, confusing news--Kazuki seems to have the emotional range of a teaspoon. He doesn't seem all that bothered with anything and doesn't react much. If it weren't for the lack of monotone, most people would probably assume he's a robot. One would think even his passion would get him to emote, but aside from a vague focused expression, he otherwise is the same as always. Driven He doesn't let anything get in the way of accomplishing his goals: everything in life is part of a problem that leads to a solution one way or another. He is relentless when it comes to accomplishing a goal, often pushing himself past what's healthy. For a majority of his life it's been seen as a virtue of sorts and he hasn't had any reason to slow down. Observant Despite having little care for the people he engages with, he finds it useful to pick up on a few cues to keep in mind for later if need be. // BENCHMARKS B E N C H M A R K S Piano Man By far and away Kazuki's most cultivated skill, to the point he has gotten several server first records on unlocking the next tier with thousands of hours put into piano playing. Of course, aside from entertainment value and unlocking a few other skills, it doesn't have much use otherwise. Healing Touch His second best and probably most relevant skill. Originally toting around without a weapon, Kazuki's healing can be strengthened if he makes contact with whoever needs healing; best used for greater injuries at the risk of putting himself in action. Song of the Wind The ability to have his music gain effects depending on the song he's playing. Different songs have different effects, ranging from a variety of buffs and healing over time. Some come at the conclusion of a song, others are persisting so long as the melody is continuously played. With Hammer in Hand Smithery has become a great side hobby to Kazuki, who genuinely enjoys making armor and weapons whenever he gets his hands on materials. While he has made a few commissions, it became clear that making and selling instruments quickly became his specialty and source of income--that said, he can make a majority of weapons and armor if need be.

Physical Description Standing at five feet ten inches, Kazuki is a lanky young man that usually towers over his classmates. At a first glance there isn't much home to write about, his face still plenty boyish and more youthful looking than he'd like. The most notable feature he has is probably his green eyes, usually hidden under the mess of brown hair he sports. His expressions are often heavily muted or outright nonexistent, making it difficult to know if he's paying attention or not. Whenever he does look at people, it's noted that it seems more like he's looking through them, not at them. Character Conceptualization Kazuki Hoshizawa is a serious kid who takes his passions to their fullest at the expense of most of his social skills. After taking the emotional brunt of his parents' divorce, for all intents and purposes he has shut down. While it's hardly noticeable due to stellar grades and his talent at music, his social life is nonexistent for the most part. As a result, he has a tendency to be overly blunt and cold with little care about the effects of what he says. His personality seems to be the inverse of most healers in media and makes it clear he helps people out of expectation, not out of obligation. As a noob who doesn't really play games, he was hesitant to even join Pariah Online. He doesn't know much of RPGs in general but has enjoyed the nonsensical side of the game; aside from the appeal of getting to play and learn several instruments, he doesn't really find adventuring appealing. He ended up choosing healing as it seemed easier to stay in the back and support his younger brother. While he doesn't discern himself from who he is outside of the game, he outright refuses to speak of personal matters, with Kazuma barely being an exception and only because Kazuki keeps slipping up and calling him by his real name. Other Information Has regularly placed in several national competitions Big fan of strawberries Toolkit Theme

Of Blood and Magic

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The possibilities were already zipping through Lilie's head as she put together a variety of choices: she could bake a cake, maybe make cupcakes, or be a little more fancy with puff pastries stuffed with spinach. Maybe she could bring two things! She would have to make sure to properly coordinate, Kanalie had always treated her so giving some back would be nice. She was honestly getting excited as she thought about it, especially since she fully planned to bring out all the stops. Getting to make stuff for more than just herself gave her an extra pep in her step that she didn't realize she had missed.

As Maddie brought up Aaron's musical skills, Lilie couldn't stop herself from getting bashful, a small smile on her lips. The butterflies in her stomach surged through her chest as she fondly remembered the night they sang together; it wasn't like she was going to forget that anytime soon. But as happy as she would be telling Maddie all about it, she hesitated. It was this private little moment just for the two of them, and she wasn't sure she liked the idea of sharing it.

Clearing her throat, Lilie fiddled with the sleeves of her dress as she tried to think of what to say. "Well, when the weather was better, sometimes I'd hear the sound of a cello coming from outside," She said slowly, trying not to smile too much. "And one day I finally got to see it. He's very talented, even if he says he isn't."

And Aaron had a tendency to downplay his skills, but Lilie wasn't going to say that. She'd always cheer him on until he was convinced he really was as good as she said.

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