Current
I just can't. This is too much. Berserk was so influential on so many things that I love. Goodbye, Miura. You'll be missed by many.
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4 yrs ago
Migraines ew
5 yrs ago
Welp apparently discord servers are having some pretty bad Latency issues.
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5 yrs ago
Well I just got my mitts on the Links Awakening remake. Excus eme while I disappear for a weak while I relive my childhood
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5 yrs ago
Migraine killed me today. Posts tomorrow.
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Bio
Hello! Welcome to my little bio.
Not much to say, really. Just a horror game protag that likes writing and playing vidya games when I'm not being chased by the cosmic forces of darkness. (I'm a security guard that works night shifts usually).
This was one of the most emotive scale demons she had ever seen. Perhaps that wasn’t too unsurprising, considering the circumstances that they had met.
“Patience, Eliz.” Livia frowned, resting her chin on her hand as the vehicle drove up to the front of the maison. “If my intel is right, and it always is, you’ll get to have your bloodbath sooner rather than later. I must stress though,” Livia would push open the door to the vehicle as it pulled to a stop, getting out ahead of the demon. “You will behave yourself or I will terminate our contract. I do not tolerate any disobedience and I can not have a liability.” She’d say, holding out a hand to the demon to help her out of the vehicle.
“Even potential liabilities as charming as you.”
Once the demon had disembarked from the vehicle, Livia would walk the short distance up to the front of the Maison, the lush, well kept grass a shade of vibrant, healthy green while several trees lined the area in front of the building, perfectly pruned and well kept by the maids excellent hands. She’d push open the door and walk inside…
The Maison was still a flurry of activity even as they spotted Lady Fiore’s vehicle rolling up in front of the Maison. Several maids had been selected to greet her, standing on either side of the plush, long carpet that led to the main staircase, but a few were scrambling to get everything prepared. Mari, pocket watch in hand grumbled lightly as she’d glance between the maids, a few of her notes on their new demon friend and the door. Rosanna simply stood quietly, glancing in Lucrecia’s direction.
“...I do believe you’ve spilled the proverbial herbs all over the table.”
“Well, they’ll be finding out in roughly two minutes anyways.” Mariarca responded with a sigh. “Has Nynette prepared the meeting room and refreshments?”
“A little late to be asking about that, isn’t it? But as far as I am aware, yes.”
“I would expect nothing less from the first Maid. Then everything should be in order then-oh, Akantha.”
“Ah-Oh goodness sorry, pardon me…! I was a bit lost.” Akantha had been given a room with the rest of the trainee maids for now and was allowed to stay until they figured out what to do with her. They weren’t her legal guardians, after all, and Mari was already looking into her family. Viatrix had observed her sense she had returned from Cogsfell, but the little girl seemed mostly fine, aside from insomnia and nightmares and she refused to sleep alone.
“Polina is over there, if you’re looking for her.” Mari pointed her in the direction of the farisian maid. “But keep it down, the Maison’s Patron and owner Lady Fiore shall be arriving-”
The door to the Maison opened, the black haired woman took a moment to allow the demon following her entryway before closing the door behind the two of them.
“...now.”
Akantha froze as the lines of Maids stood at attention, before quietly bowing to Lady Fiore as she entered. Akantha froze in place nearly in the middle of the carpet before scurrying off near Polina, holding her leg with some uncertainty. Livia walked down the aisle, saying not a word, merely observing the maids present with a cool glare as she made her way to the staircase at the other end of the rug. Mariarca handed her the folder of papers as Rosanna merely offered a nod of acknowledgement before walking off.
Livia would take a moment to go through the folder before sighing.
“First of all…I am glad to see everyone of you in good health.” She’d greet the maids. “I heard there was some trouble in cogsfell. For those of you who took part in the operation, you have my gratitude.” Quite a practiced speech, it seemed. “I sadly do not have time to hang around nor do I wish to involve myself too much in your day to day functions. Mariarca and the administration does that well enough…however.” She turned her attention to Elizstrazia. “As you have likely noticed, we have ourselves a new resident and a new member of our organization. She might be a demon, but you will treat her no different as any other maid. And you, Elizstrazia, will give them the respect they deserve as your senior members. I do hope, I have made myself clear on that.” With a mildly disinterested huff, Livia would fold the papers under her arm as she turned to Mariarca.
“Mariarca, I shall be in the eastern sitting room. I expect those who took part in the Cogsfell forward operation to meet me there in an hour. Our new demon friend as well.” She turned back to the demon. “Until then…hm…actually.” She glanced towards Polina. A small smile seemed to form on her lips. “Maid Polina. Maid Lucrecia. Show this one around the Maison would you? Introduce her to Myrilla and Viatrix.”
“Of course, my lady. I shall make preparations. Is there anything specific you need?” Mariarca replied.
“I see one of our maids assigned to the greeting duty is not present..." Livia frowned. "Do give her a good reprimanding for me. Otherwise, I’ll have Nynette see to it if I need anything else. Focus on your usual duties for the moment.”
“Very well. I will inform miss Katherine that she is to be punished for her absence. The rest of you, get back to work. Polina and Lucrecia I expect you to handle this demon flawlessly. Give her a full tour of the Maison and make sure she does not cause trouble. I'll be preparing her work unfiform. I'll send word once its finished.”
In another part of the manor, a workshop reserved for more practically inclined maids and one specifically designed to help a certain Firbolg with her doll creation, sat the firbolg in question. She had been working the night away, seeing to repair her adorable little dolls. This meant…well, she was currently sleeping away the morning hours and completely missing the greeting and meeting of Lady Fiore in the entryway.
This, of course, was not something the maids would tolerate.
Upon not seeing the Firbolg there, Mariarca hastily tasked a certain pink haired maid with finding her and bringing her to the foyer for reprimand.
Lyssa pushed open the door to the room, quietly observing the plethora of dolls frantically working to repair the other dolls…and Katherine herself? Face first on a desk, snoozing away.
Grinning impishly, Lyssa quietly approached.
SMACK
The hardest smack the maid could deliver was slammed right on Katherine’s ass.
“Kitty needs to wake up before Mariarca fries you, ahah!” She’d giggle, giving Katherine’s butt another playful smack for good measure.
Or maybe she should learn some divine magic so it laid golden eggs.
This was turning out to be rather annoying.
"I would much rather sell this thing." Mella replied with a sigh, admitting defeat at the hands of this avian. "Its a rare specimen lord Reginald...though I haven't a clue as to why it seems so attached to me." She'd turn her eyes up towards the bird in question. "Perhaps it'd taste good roasted? Perhaps fried. I think it looks similar enough to a duck to be quite delicious of prepared correctly and I would not have to purchase food for the evening if we did."
Mella walked over towards Reginald and Elastasia, bowing politely.
"I shall remember to bill you for extra curricular work." She nodded towards Reginald. "My lord, if there is nothing else then I must continue my shopping and prepare a meal for the evening." A glance back up at the bird. "Unless we truly shall be finding out what this one tastes like roasted in garlic."
“Rikard and Rhea, I believe those two names were.” Giles replied. “I am unsure of that Alchemist's name. She remained in the building at all times, though we were grateful she helped show us how to make decent fertilizers and healing elixirs.” He glanced towards the underground fields nearby, the pale light of a silver lantern shimmering. “...for what good it does down here.” Giles brushed a strand of loose, scraggly hair from his field of vision as Aleksia spoke.
“You’ll forgive me if I’m once more skeptical.” He glanced in her direction. “But I have no reason to stop you from trying. If its that city you want information on, well…” He hesitated, glancing towards the massive, deceased beast not too far away. “All I can tell you is stories I’ve heard from my parents, and they, by their parents.”
He fixed both the vampires with a studious gaze.
“A cursed city…the place the undead scourge first took claim on their path of conquest. We’ve been told to stay away from it no matter what. Hordes of beasts, mutated and savagely mutated from curses and the fell power of the undead roam its streets while undead will seek to make you another number in their horde. A massive skeletal creature watches over the gate, keeping any from coming in.” He hesitated slightly before continuing. “My mom used to tell me that the Paladins left something there, buried far underground when they fled during the vampiric takeover. A source of divine power, they say. I wish I could tell you more for your help, but anything else would be mere legend, rumor, or speculation.”
He’d clear his throat.
“That aside…please, before doing anything else let me extend some hospitality as thanks. I’m sure you travelers are exhausted from the road. We do not have much in the way of food but I will personally see to it you and your friends are given accommodations as best as we can handle.”
“You serious?! A vampire? Beasts in the tunnels? Is everyone alright!?” Julene shouted, upon hearing Luna’s account of what happened in the tunnels. She almost looked as though she was about to run off and help, but upon seeing some people tentatively leave their homes, she’d sigh tiredly, looking towards Akyasha.
“Tch...I should go help with repairs...but, I reckon if you’re here and the people are leavin’ its been taken care of.” She’d fold her arms across her chest. “Julene. Just…Julene. Only soul here who has any backbone.” She’d huff, glancing down the street towards the rest of the houses and people. “...not that I can blame ‘em. People here are too scared. What can a man do against a beast that can rip metal in half and all that.” She turned her head towards Giselle. “I try. Someone has to. Its not perfect, but with a lack of materials or skilled help its about all I can really do on my own.” She’d smirk, seemingly a bit proud of what she had created. “I think its good though. Lets me see anywhere in the village. With some properly aimed shots I can hit some barrels i’ve stashed across the tree line. Blows any beastie up before it even gets a chance to get here, heh. Only reason I wasn’t there now…well…I was out by the river tryin’ to figure out where our Undead problem’s coming from now.” She’d take her blade back from Giselle. “Thanks…uh, you all want something to eat or something. Ain’t got much but I got some vegetables and…well, some people here balk at it but the beast meat ain’t bad if ya cook it right.”
The Gorebat Akyasha sent of returned, alighting on her shoulder.
"Cold. Underground with steel man. Heading forest. Unsure. Found something below."
“Oh that old place?” The witch replied. “Hmm…now that I look at you, you look as though you crawled right out of that weathered sea yourself.” She frowned, studying Argus quietly. “I’m curious as to why you want to know about it. That is no place for men…but I guess you are no normal man, are you?” Faster than Argus could react to, the witch struck out with her hand, the sharp point on her ring piercing his hand, covering the end of the bone in the sweet, ichorious blood that ran through his veins.
“Hmm, yes yes, I see,” She’d say, licking the ring, not seeming to mind or even register that she had just possibly done something to offend him. “Vampire, aren’t you? That is the third one I’ve had the misfortune of meeting. A vial of your blood will suffice as payment and I’ll tell you everything that I know about it. I believe that is an acceptable term. Vampire blood could be an excellent reagent for some more…esoteric potions.”
“Hah…this lot? Not a bit.” The Cyclops responded with a derisive chuckle. “Not that they care, they seem more bloodthirsty then the elves I know. They’d probably welcome the challenge. Odd, for Lymensari elves.”
“...nhn?” Sucaria only responded briefly, head still locked towards the enchanting, golden flames of the beast below as she was swept off her feet. It wasn’t until Luna had turned away did she seemingly come back to a bit of her senses. “...Lady Luna…have you seen my heart? I think someone might have taken it…”
The cyclopes let out a loud laugh at that before stifling himself.
“...thank you. That thing was…saying something. I couldn’t stop listening…” Sucaria frowned. “...Mistress can I sleep with you the rest of the night?”
“T…tomatoes?” Lugh questioned, wondering why he would need to eat such a yucky vegetable…fruit? For getting the skunk smell out.
Elnith remained mostly silent, looking across the now dead, hollow fallen trunk that had served as the Unseelies body. A brief melancholic prayer was offered, but she’d soon turn her attention back toward her companions and the newcomer.
“I do believe its a remedy for that smell of yours.” Elnith replied. “A pleasure to meet you. Elnith, though you may have heard of me. The boy here is Lugh.” She’d introduce herself and Lugh, giving the Tuatha a pat on the head, rubbing his ears. “The village we passed might have some tomatoes at the market or whatever general goods store they might have if any, but we shall see. It isn’t far.”
Suddenly, Lugh would perk his ears up, quietly glancing away from the group towards the forest. He’d frown, furrowing his brow briefly before shaking his head and turning back to the group.
“...does it have to be tomatoes…?” Lugh frowned. “”
“W-wa-wait I didn’t mean it!” The unseelie shouted as she realized what Fio was up to. Unfortunately, the small pixie lacked any sort of physical or magical strength in order to prevent herself from being tossed into fairy prison. While it was a question as to why the queen had these things in the first place (though it smelled faintly of some sort of fruit) it ultimately didn’t matter.
“Rudeness! Unforgivable!” She would immediately, however, start shouting about how this was the greatest sin in the world. “Do you have any idea what I’ll do to you! I’ll curse you so your hair is always messy! Or your eyebrows to fall off! I will I mean it!” She’d shout, pressing her hands against the glass cage she had been put in.
“And I’m a fairy! I go where I want! Its not like I’m here to observe this backwater village. I’m just here to ya know…do fairy things. Like cursing someone’s underwear to mysteriously be soiled or make someone's water taste like sand.” The Fairy glanced around the room, eyes falling on the bed and then on Fio.
“...hehe, hey, maybe you should let me go before Miss Queenie comes back and I tell her your...secrets!” What those secrets were, the fairy didn't seem keen on elaborating.
Class: Demonic Beast Threat level: Low A common sight in the first circle of Naraheim. Savage hounds that seek prey. Hunt in packs and can be domesticated, often by the Fell Huntsmen and sometimes by Demonic Nobles. They do not possess much of a danger themselves, being about as strong as your average hound with minor regenerative abilities and some can spit fire.
Class: Greater Beast Threat Level: Medium A group of humanoid looking demons in the circles of Naraheim. Appearing as tarry skinned, hunchbacked humanoids with long muzzles and snouts reminiscent of crocodiles they possess only minimal intelligence or sapience, but a surprisingly sophisticated 'Culture' if one can call it that. Often live in groups of ten to twenty. Can manipulate fire easily, and as they lack a skeletal structure they can be surprisingly difficult to deal with thanks to their high regenerative abilities as well.
Class: Greater Beast Threat level: Medium An odd creature that can be found roaming the root-forests of the Lowest levels of the first circle. Likes to submerge and disguise itself as boulders in rivers of lava. Appearing as a large headless ape with a gaping hold where its neck and shoulders should be, its a hulking behemoth of a demon and a physical power house. Can lob balls of lava from its maw should it need to. Its tarry hide is tough, but curiously it does not seem as though the tar itself is its body. Seems to become lethargic and slower the more it bleeds and lava is drained from its insides.
“...I have defensive underwear for perverts like you.” Bernadette replied, quite aware of what had gotten Katherine thrown off the ship. The small engineer wouldn’t fight Katherine though, she wasn’t willing to put forth the effort so she’d let the cat cuddle up to her for the moment. “Thank you for the assistance…but I really need to get back to work unless you want the weapons to start misfiring at the most inopportune times.”
Bernadette would pull herself away from Katherine, straightening her dress and walking towards the ship's lower decks once more.
“Excellent, I knew you were a comrade!” The rat laughed. “I was thinking about making some honey cakes for dessert, hm? That little pink haired firebrand will love them, I’m sure. You can start on those.” Between Leoniya, Polina, and the other maids in the kitchens the meals wouldn’t take terribly long to do. Lyssa would show up not long after either, strutting into the kitchen and rather childishly taking a bite out of the unfinished honey cakes, earning a swift reprimand from Leoniya.
The Galley would remain lively for the remainder of their trip home, back to the Maison.
“N-no…” Akantha replied quietly. “She took the scary one back there first…told me to wait out here.” The girl didn’t look up from her seat or towards Lucrecia as she continued. “Y-yes…I’m from the town…it was a nice…enough place, I guess. Mom was a secretary for one of the businessmen in town, and dad was a peacekeeper. Dad…dad….tried holding them off and mom took me and ran and…and…” She sniffled, rubbing her eyes, but no tears came. “The…the demons…they did such awful things to everyone…I-I thought I was next but that’s when…you all showed up…”
She’d fall silent as the door to the operating room opened, Lyssa bounding out with what seemed to be her normal levels of limitless energy.
“Lulu!” She’d grin, hopping towards Lucrecia. “Doc says I’m fine! Just a bit bruised but otherwise good to beat up some more demons.”
“How about we don’t do that for a bit, hm?” Viatrix would walk out shortly after, bopping Lyssa lightly on the head with a closed fist.
“Bweh~!”
“Lucrecia, are you hurt? I can see both you and the little one, she might be a little more comfortable with you present…” Lyssa would wave bye to the both of them before heading off to the mess hall. Viatrix would ultimately lead the two of them towards the room, where she’d give the two a proper treatment and a full work over with her regeneration magic. Once done, they would be free to go, though Akantha seemed intent on sticking with either Lucrecia or Polina…
“This will be your first time at the Maison.” Sitting across from the demon was a rather young looking woman, likely not much older than her mid twenties. Dressed in a full military uniform with short cut black hair and blue eyes. White gloves adorned her hands, pristine and well kept. “You’ve enjoyed relative comfort while you were recovering, but as per the deal we have struck, I will be putting you to work starting today.”
The vehicle they were in was something of an oddity, if only because they were still quite rare for anyone but the most well connected or the wealthiest. A sleek, black automotive, bearing the family crest of the Fiore family on its doors. The back of the car was excessively comfortable and posh, with two sets of velvet, violet colored seats that faced each other, a table that folded from the door…it was everything one might need to enjoy a long ride in luxury and in private.
“Just as well, Elizstrazia…you’re the only demon currently acknowledged to be employed by the Maison officially.” She’d continue matter of factly. “Try to behave yourself. I don’t need the other maids getting anxious. Not that they’ll disobey me…but let's not give them any reason to start trouble.”
The vehicle would pull up to the Maison’s gates, stopping briefly to let them open.
“Now with that out of the way…any last questions, well, now is the time. Once we’re inside and I assign you your squad, your training for both combat and maid duties will be handed over to Mariarca.”
It had been a few days since the Cogsfell incident, and the Maison was abuzz with activity for one simple reason. Lady Fiore, was returning to the Maison after a long period abroad. The Clemantis was in the drydocks situated on the eastern end of the maison. As usual Bernadette was there tinkering away, and a good few dozen maid squads were being drilled in combat by both Myrilla and Leoniya out in the training battle fields.
A good many of the trainee maids and general personnel were scrambling around, cleaning, cooking, and making sure the Maison was spotless for the Lady. She wasn’t known for visiting often, even when she was in Alavaris so to say everyone was taking this seriously was an understatement.
“Are the Wards in proper order, Rosanna?”
“No, they’ve completely failed and I can’t do anything about it.” The witch maid would retort. “Of course they are, I wouldn’t be here if they weren’t.”
“Leave your sass at the door when Mistress Fiore arrives, would you?”
“I don’t intend to be present when she arrives unless I must, Mari. I’ve better things to do then sit around for a rookie squads debriefing.”
“As long as you’re present to greet her, there won’t be a problem.” Mari sighed, shuffling some papers in a folder she had briefly read over. A written missive from Mistress Fiore on a recent development a few months ago about them getting a new, potentially difficult operative.
"Its true, then? About us getting a demon for a maid?"
"...Yes." Mari replied, walking into the reception foyer. "I've yet to announce it as Lady Fiore has asked to make it herself...I can only imagine she'll find it mildly funny to drop it on most of the other maids." Rosanna didn't reply, merely frown and glance thoughtfully towards the door.
The vehicle rumbled past the busy pedestrians of the city, earning a few questioning looks as they passed. A car was certainly not something everyone had access too, and even then, only the wealthiest of the nobles or merchants had access to such technological marvels. The tinted windows, however, prevented any from seeing within.
“Its been awhile since we’ve had a moment alone, hasn’t it?” One of the occupants was sitting on a plush, luxuriously soft cushions in the back seat of the large vehicle. “What, with both of us being busy with work lately.”
“Well, there’s only yourself to blame for that.” The other occupant retorted, melting into the nice cushioned seats. “However, I can’t say it isn’t nice.”
“Yes yes, its my fault for working too much.” She sighed, glancing out the windows at the passing businesses, mostly of the entertainment sorts. Bars, restaurants, theaters…some showrooms for mechanical exhibitions. A small squad of the church paladins shutting down something they deemed ungodly.
Sickening, that one.
“At least now with the foundation and plans laid out nicely thanks to myself, I might add,” A smug, self satisfied smirk formed on her lips as she glanced towards the other occupant. “We’ll be able to relax a bit as the pieces fall into place. Perhaps I’ll take you some place much nicer soon.”
“You better. It’s been something else helping out like this.” The other occupant tiredly mentioned as she looked toward her companion. “Maybe it’ll be a bit quieter too….” She gave a bit of a sigh before speaking again. “It’s all going well, then?”
“What, don’t like it? I thought you’d find it amusing.” She gave a quiet laugh. “But lets save the business talk for when we arrive at the Devils Advocate.” She’d get up from the seat, scooting next to the other woman with a smile. “We don’t get much of a chance to be mostly alone these days. I’d much rather spend it talking about you, Duchess.”
Duchess gave a small smile, “What’s there really to say, Violet? I’ve been busy thanks to you.” The woman moved in a small bit closer to the other. “You need to find more time to go out with me. Not that I have much time myself, I suppose.”
“Tsk,” Violet rolled her eyes, proceeding to climb on top of Duchess’ lap with a smile, sitting on top of her as she’d hold a hand under the other womans chin. “I can say I missed you quite a bit while I was busy.”
“I’m sure you did.” Duchess said, a smirk crossing her face as her chin was held by Violet. “Well, we’ll have time soon enough, I’m sure.” She looked into Violet’s eyes as if trying to read her soul. “That said, I’m curious how much you did miss me.”
Instead of saying anything, Violet leaned over, placing her lips on Duchess’ own, taking a long, drawn out kiss from the other woman. It was only cut short by the sound of the vehicles engine dying down, and the chauffeur exiting the vehicle. With a mildly annoyed huff, Violet would get off of Duchess, retaking her seat as the door for the vehicle opened.
“We’ve arrived, Duchess.” Violet would hold out a hand and help the other woman out of the vehicle.
Duchess accepted the hand and stepped out of the vehicle, unbothered by the interrupted lover's moment. "So we have."
They had arrived in front of what appeared to be a small, high class jewelry store. Both however, knew much better that it was merely a front for something else entirely.
"We could have taken a small bit more time getting here." Duchess mentioned, holding Violet's hand still ready to get a move on despite her words.
Violet guided Duchess out of the car, straightening her own dress lightly as she’d glance up and down the streets briefly.
“Sadly, business calls and I need to confirm things with Queen and Lucelle.” Violet responded to Duchess, releasing the other womans hand as she walked into the jewelry store. Busy as it always was, after all, the Heathrow Jewelers were quite well known and quite popular among both the wealthy and the more religious groups of the city.
Violet walked up to the counter catching the eye of the jeweler.
“We would like to view the…rarer collections.”
“I see. Do you have a recommendation or a jewel in particular you wish to see?”
“I believe the Queen is expecting me to see the Cinder Ruby with her.”
“Oh goodness, do forgive. Right this way I believe she is already waiting on her guests.”
“Plan on eating?” Violet asked Duchess, briefly turning to her as the clerk moved out from behind the counter.
"I wouldn't say no. I'm quite famished." Duchess replied with a nod having stayed quiet until now. She had been quite busy readying for this outing she had forgotten to eat. "You're paying, right?" She teased.
“You have your own money.” Violet retorted with an eye roll as she’d follow the clerk. “But I suppose I owe you that much.”
"You're the best Violet." Duchess said with a grin as she followed. She seemed proud of herself for getting a free meal. "I suppose I'll have to do you a favor later."
“A favor, eh?” Violet replied as they were led into a back door that said ‘employees only’. “I’ll have to think of something.” The mildly teasing and perhaps lascivious smile that accompanied the statement made it obvious what sort of favor she might have been thinking of.
For now though, the pair were led through the backrooms of the jewelry store, past well dressed patrons and a few sitting rooms for displaying more pricey pieces of jewelry…but they would be led past those, down a hallway, down a set of stairs and into the basement where they’d come to a seemingly dead end. The clerk, produced a small metal rod from his waistcoat.
It would soon light up. Magical runes engraved on it in the symbols and language of the First Circle. Similar patterns would appear on the wall where they would slowly engrave themselves, a magical hum could be heard as the wall would bend outwards, creaking wood warping from the magic until it’d fold in on itself in an angular manner, soon creating what was a fairly simple, nondescript door. The words ‘Devils Advocate’ was written in arcane script on the door.
“Ladies, have a good time…” The clerk bowed to the two of them. “...Do be careful though. We have some particularly…rowdy customers today.”
“When are blood demons not rowdy.” Violet retorted, pulling open the door. “I can handle myself.”
"You'll just beat them until they lose their senses. Guess that makes them significantly less rowdy." Duchess mentioned as she followed behind Violet. "Makes me wonder what constitutes 'particularly rowdy'."
The pair would soon find out.
As they descended another small set of stairs down a tunnel into the establishment proper, it was quite clear they were definitely being rowdy. They could hear the howls and roars of laughter before they even descended fully, and once they had managed to make it to the bottom of the stairs, the body of a large high demon flew past Violet, nearly grazing the side of her face as it’d slam into the wall behind the two of them.
“...Ah, the smell of sulfur and blood, you think after growing up in the first circle, I’d be used to it.” Violet responded, completely unfazed as a large high demon, at least seven feet tall sporting charcoal colored skin and tusks like an elephant would stop his beating of a smaller demon, turning to the pair that just entered.
“...we got ourselves human, lads!” He’d stomp over, dragging the unconscious body of another demon behind him. The rest of the establishment had quieted down at this declaration, turning their heads towards this supposed human.
“Or Blood demons lacking any kind of decorum or brains.” Violet exhaled.
“Now what…are some mortals doing here. This isn’t a place for a couple of lost whelps.”
"Every time I swear." Duchess complained, "Do you think lost whelps would find themselves here? Lummox. Continue on with what you were doing." She ordered as if that demon were going to listen.
“Now don’t be like that.” The demon laughed, cracking the neck of the other demon he had been dragging with him. “You’re here for a good time, why else would a mortal come here? Why don’t you both enjoy a drink with-”
“It still amazes me,” Violet interrupted. “How some blood demons have less critical thinking and brains than your average Orosian priest.”
“What was that, whore?”
“You heard me. Men of the cloth are smarter and more devious than you.”
“You little bitch think you can just waltz in here-”
“Oh yes I can indeed waltz in here. Since you don’t know who we are, I can only make such a conclusion about your lack of mental acuity.” By now the rest of the place was watching, the fighting having died down just a bit.
“I don’t care who you are mortal, I’ll squish that head of yours and eat it!” The demon said nothing in reply, only raising one of his arms and aiming to completely smash Violet’s head against his fist.
"Annoying." From Duchess' hand came a wiggling, writhing mass. It spread across the floor quickly before wrapping itself around the demon's leg and then up his body constricting as it went. Soon, the demon found he was unable to move his arm or leg as the tentacle-like mass started to constrict around his neck. "Should he be dinner?" Duchess asked Violet more than a little irritated.
“Ghhk-Bloody tears what…are you-!” The high demon hissed, trying to struggle free from the tentacled mass.
“She is something ten times as terrifying as you will ever be, whelp.” Violet coldly replied, having been completely unfazed and didn’t even flinch at the incoming attack. She walked over to the demon, not raising her head as she spoke to him. “I can’t tell any more whether every blood demon I meet is as dumb as a child, or they simply want to claim they could do something to me. Any idea who I am now, demon?”
“Ggrrrg…” The demon hissed.
“...right, I forgot. You don’t know basic manners.” Suddenly, the demon would find himself falling, face first onto the floor. It had been a fast movement, faster than most present would have been able to even observe as an ethereal blade cleaved demonic flesh from bone. “First, you should kneel before those stronger than you, isn’t that right?”
“G-gaah-w-what!?” Blood began pooling around him. He tried thrashing, but his arms were still bound by Duchess and his legs had been severed from his body at the thighs.
“I took the liberty of making sure you’ll never forget to kneel again.”
“Do you have any idea what family I’m from! I’m a demon noble you pathetic-”
“No, I don’t. Must be some backwater family that’s known for mucking stables.” Violet rebuffed “I do hope these tusks weren’t important.” Another swift strike, the long tusks being severed neatly right at the base. Violet reached for both, picking them up. “Quite pretty. I’m sure they’ll make an excellent alchemy reagent or some magical tool.”
“Y-you…nngr-!”
“Ah…I thought I heard you guys! Duchess! Violet!” A blur of motion would tackle Duchess, as a little short haired imp of a demon rammed into her head first, wrapping the other woman in a hug and nuzzling her head of short hair against her chest. “Aaaah, its been years!~”
"Ah… Princess…." Duchess groaned having taken a head-first tackle from a cute demon. "H-how are you…?" She asked, still recovering from the hit. "You're still as cute as I remember."
“Ehehe, course I am.” Princess continued to hold her head against Duchess’ chest, demonic, fur tipped tail swaying back and forth lazily while her demonic hooves clacked against the floor. “Eeeh, whats this dummy up to?”
“Learning his place.”
“V-violet!?”
“So you do recognize my name.”
“Y-you…nngh-I-I am sorry Lady Violet I didn’t-ghhk!”
“Didn’t know what? Here I am as Queens Guest, and you have the audacity to harass me when I’m the reason you’re here in the first place.” Violet knelt down, glaring at the demon coldly. “And I can send you back to that cesspool known as Naraheim.”
“P-please…I-”
“Oh don’t worry, I’ve no interest in this further, besides,” She quickly glanced at the demons he had been fighting earlier. “I believe your friends desire your time more than I.” The look of relief was quickly replaced by one of terror as about ten or so demons quickly dragged him back into the mass of rowdy demons….
“Ahaha, wow If I said what’s happening to him, I’d have to censor myself.” Princess laughed, holding a hand to her forehead as if she was trying to shield her eyes from the obscene display.
As Duchess' tentacle retracted into it's rightful place, she merely ignored the happens and turned Princess around so they could go on their way. "Let's go this way, you demonic ball of energy. You've been well, right? I'm sorry I couldn't have met you myself. I've been far too busy."
“What, don’t wanna stay for the show?” Princess giggled, holding onto Duchess’ hands as she’d decided to let the other woman manhandle her across the floor as the trio started to move. Now that they had a moment to not be harassed, they could get a much better view of the establishment they were in.
The smoky interior smelled of sulfur and spice, the warm atmosphere tinged a shade of red as demons howled both with laughter, danced, some fighting some deciding to have rather…public displays of affection. Nothing unusual for blood demons, really. The ornate wooden floor was covered with the occasional red and gold carpet, finely crafted tables served as the supports for massive plates of food.
Really, if there was some vice wanted to be indulged in, one could find it here.
“I take it Queen is ready to meet us?” Violet asked after walking a bit. Princess finally disentangled herself from Duchess, smiling her usual cheery smile. “Oh, she’ll be here soon. She wanted me to bring you to our usual table. Lucelle is busy doing,” As if on cue, a sultry, seductive voice came on over the speakers. Glancing towards the source of it, a white haired demon with smooth, pristine skin that was using black, bat like wings as a dress was starting to sing. “Her new hobby. So its just us for a bit!~”
"Oh my dear teacher…. What manner if buffoonery have you started to indulge yourself with?" Duchess questioned as she looked on to the sight. "How long has she been doing this?"
“Oh…hm, for a few months now?” Princess responded with a giggle, walking down the aisle towards a staircase that led up to a section for private seats and meetings. “You know how she likes having people look at her. Humans seem to like it too, heh. I bet she’s planning something fun.”
“...I leave her alone for a few months and she plans something that could probably put this whole scheme in jeopardy.” Violet coldly grumbled, following the demon up the stairs.
"That's just like her though, Violet." Duchess said, sighing a small bit. "I'll talk to her later about it. Not that she'll listen to me, but, well. Hopefully."
“Maybe I should just kill her.” Violet grumbled, following Princess into a cushy, luxurious booth area that overlooked the main establishment below. “...well, that aside, Princess, no hug for me? I’m a little sad.”
“Pfft, normally you shove me away. Last time I tried to give you a hug, you pushed me off a cliff.” Princess responded, bouncing over to Violet. “Not that I don’t mind a bit of…rough handling, heh.”
“What can I say. I missed tormenting you just a bit.” Violet responded, taking a seat at the sizable, circular table that served as the booths main feature. Princess followed shortly, taking a seat next to Violet and motioned for Duchess to come sit next to her.
Duchess considered it for a second. Sometimes Violet could be awfully possessive and, as they made eye contact, Duchess knew the look she got back from Violet. A playful wink.
"Alright then, Princess." Duchess surrendered as she took her seat next to the short haired demon. "Now you're sitting next to both of us just like you wanted."
“...You guys are up to something, aren’t ya?” Princess replied with a pout.
“Must you always be so suspicious.” Violet replied with an eye roll.
“...hmmng, well do your worst-bweeep! Agh that’s my horn!”
“So it is.” Violet replied, grabbing one of the demon goats horns as the demon herself made a funny little bleating noise.
Before the demon could reply again, she felt another hand on another horn. "My, my. How adorable your horns are. And those noises as well. Adorable." Duchess mentioned, happily teasing Princess.
“Y-you guys are bullying me!” Princess bleat again, feeling Duchess’ hand on her other horn. “Y-you know my horns are basically a status symbol! I’m the great Princess of Naraheim! They might not be as big as my sisters but they’re still impressive! Y-you disrespectful mortals!”
“Oh yes, spare us the show Princess. We practically grew up together.” Violet, pulling the demons horn hard enough so her head would be pulled into Violet’s chest. “Now give that hug I mentioned.”
“Hmph, meanie~” Princess grumbled, but she would do as request, nuzzling against Violet and giving her a hug.
Duchess released her horn as Violet tugged the demon in for a hug. "She's right, we both know the real way to bother you is to start teasing you but then abruptly stop." Duchess looked over the place again, "So, when is that beautiful Queen going to show her face?"
“Hmph, you guys are just mean…guess that’s why both of you get along better with demons then humans, huh~?” Princess teased, earning a thump on her forehead from Violet.
“I see the three of you are settling in well.”
“...can’t you use the door for once, Queen?”
“And what, miss the chance to scare both you brats shitless?” Standing at the balcony that overlooked the rest of the establishment, was the fourth member of their little group. “Not like I need doors anyways.” She’d say, walking across the floor, taking a seat opposite of the other three, propping her feet up on the table and immediately grabbing a glass bottle, ripping off the cork with her teeth and taking a long drink from it.
“I hear you bring good news from the operation in Cogsfell.” Violet said, not particularly minding the Demonic Satyr melting into her arms.
“No thanks to those halfwitted maids. There was a rogue high demon there. Duchess?”
“And it was taken care of.” Duchess said matter of factly. “It was hungry and spat acid but the tank rat and puppeteer took care of it and captured it. I’d say it’s under lock and key.”
“Hmph, well, as long as its not causing trouble.” Queen grunted, lighting up a cigar. “The operation went well. All objectives were met…though, we do have a report of someone by the name of ‘Sir S’ making an appearance.”
“So I heard. He wasn’t with us or the Maison.” Violet frowned. “While I’d like to believe that was nothing, we can’t discount an agent working against us in some manner.”
“Mmnngh~” Princess pulled herself out of Violet’s hug, sitting up in her chair. “I could find him. I can probably smell him out, eheh. It hasn’t been that long.”
“I know you’re eager to cause some havoc, Princess, but stay focused on your job.” Queen blew a puff of smoke in her direction. “Violet is already looking into this mystery man. Anything else to report about the Cogsfell operation, Duchess?”
“Nothing particularly. They collected their target and a small child as well. I half wonder how long most of those maids are going to last after watching the entire situation though. If that rat weren’t so handy with machinery it might not have turned out so well for them all.” Duchess giggled, thinking on the situation. “That aside, I am curious about this Mister S. I’ve never heard of such a man before. Well, that’s what aliases are for, isn’t it?”
“I have my thoughts on him.” Violet replied with a dismissive wave. “Useless to speculate until we have more concrete information, but he’s likely not a demon as far as I can ascertain so far. The fact he seemed completely fine with that one maids dolls likely means he’s not from the church either, assuming he knows what they are.”
It was then, the group gathered would notice the music from outside had died down. It would not be long before the group would hear footsteps outside the room, and their final compatriot, Lucelle, making her entrance. Behind her, was a large minotaur dressed in a rather fashionable black and white suit, a tailcoat long enough to extend to just below the floor.
“I do hope I’m not too late.” She’d say, taking a seat next to Queen. “Hehe, the little darlings do enjoy my singing.”
“Good evening, Lady Violet and Guests.” The minotaur would speak fairly eloquently, kneeling and bowing to the group. “We do sincerely apologize for the display when you arrived.”
“Hmph, its quite alright. Putting some worthless soul in their place is entertaining enough.”
“Glad to hear it, My Lady. I shall be here to take your orders for the evening. If I may…we have recently acquired a rather rare, delectable specimen. An Elephant, I believe…” There was an inquisitive tone to his voice, as he’d barely just look up from his kneeling bow at Duchess who had snickered quietly to herself.
“...Ah? Is that so? Well, I do love some…exotic meals, hm? I think I’d be more than happy to have that.” Violet responded fairly quickly, a smirk forming on her lips. “Ah, and add some Fernel Wine to that order too, will you?”
“An excellent choice, madam.” The minotaur barely restrained a laugh. “There’s enough to go around, if someone else wants the same.”
“Well, if it’s good enough for Violet, I could go for the same.” Duchess mentioned still softly making her snickering known. “An exotic meal and some wine to wash it down. How wonderful.” She mentioned looking toward Lucelle, “That said, glad to see you could make it Teacher.”
“Ah, my little Duchess, hehe.” Lucelle responded with a light giggle. “Yes, you know how busy I am these days keeping myself…well, mostly inconspicuous. I have found a particular love of singing lately. Maybe my talents will be useful in the human realm soon.”
“Humph, lets hope not.” Queen interjected, a puff of smoke coming from her lips. “Last thing we need is you starting a weird cult because of that voice of yours.”
“Oh dear, I think someone’s jealous.”
“Can it before I shove my pipe down your throat.” Queen grunted, quite unimpressed. “I’m in the mood for something a bit more bloody. Dealing with incompetent fools makes me want to drink my weight in alcohol. The good stuff, the most expensive Primarch tar you have and a Behemoth Whale. Cook and serve in a cheap whiskey.”
“Mmmmhm, I’ll have some of the Elephant!” Princess chimed in. “Oh oh, a blood cake too please! Preferably virgin!”
“I think I’ll just have something light, mhm. Blood demon cuisine doesn’t quite agree with me. So I’ll just have a simple lizard roast.” Lucelle ordered, turning her attention back to Duchess. “Perhaps you’d like to join me on stage at one point? I’m quite certain you’d do well, your voice is ever so lovely.”
“I’ll pass, thank you. Something about singing to so many demons makes me sick to my stomach.” Duchess said, her hand slowly gliding to her mouth as if she were trying to hold back. “Perhaps in a small room with hardly anyone else around. I’m not a huge attention whore like you.”
“Oh my, you want to give all of us a private show?” Lucelle teased, ignoring the insult to her. “Or is it just little Miss Violet you want to share your voice with?”
“Take your guess, I suppose.” Duchess mentioned before looking toward Violet, smirking before looking at Lucelle once more, “Though I think Violet may sing better than you.” She teased.
“Tsk,” Lucelle pouted as Violet laughed. “I’ll have you know, no mere mortal can ever beat my voice in anything you should know this, my irreverent student.” Finished taking orders, the minotaur would stand and give a brief thanks before leaving, sauntering down the stairs and heading towards the kitchens.
“I dunno Lucelle,” Queen chuckled. “Your voice does nothing but give me a headache.”
“Tell that to the demons who were asking for an encore.”
“Not going to take her up on that offer, Lucelle?” Violet replied as Princess would lean on Duchess’ shoulder, lazily cozying up to the other woman. “If I didn’t know any better, I’d think you were scared of losing.”
“I’ve never lost to a mortal. Not once, and I do not intend to start now. If you want to go down there and stand on stage and give it a shot, mortal, then let us.”
“Not once? As your student, I can think of more than a couple of times though?” Duchess mentioned as she patted Princess’ head like she were a small puppy.
“You are no mere mortal you…furry…whatever it is you actually are.” Lucelle snapped back, sounding a bit irritated.
“Ahaha, she still beat you though.” Queen replied. “Little Violet has numerous times, too, hasn’t she? Your little voice doesn’t work on them, you know this.” Lucelle fell quiet, though from the way she was tapping her fingers against the wood of the table quite clearly indicated she was not quite happy with the discussion.
“Alright, we get it, everyone here hates the other so lets get this over with and we can all unwind and take our hate out on each other after. Alright?” Violet sat up, leaning over the table. “The Cogsfell operation went well. All objectives were met and its time we start the final touches on it.”
Duchess continued to pet Princess as she spoke up. “Very well. It just means I’ll be able to tease Teacher later.” The cat-like girl mentioned as her attention was brought to work matters. “Just tell me what you need done, Violet.”
Violet would pull something from her pockets. A curious little statue, quite clear to all present that it had been used to seal a particularly powerful High demon. It was shaped like a sort of small, slug looking creature with stumpy legs, a tail.
“An Auction. One of our agents shall be purchasing this at an Auction with instructions on how to unseal and free this demon.” Princess didn’t comment, merely nuzzle herself a bit more affectionately against duchess.
“To what end?” Queen questioned.
“Oh the fact you never pay attention is astonishing.” Lucelle huffed. “I believe he shall be taking the fall for the whole scheme, yes? We bust an underground auction house using him as a scapegoat and we get ourselves a nice new ally in the process.”
“More allies are always nice. It sucks when you’re the only one doing the heavy lifting.” Duchess said, patting Princess on the head still hardly realizing she was doing it. “When does the auction take place?”
“One week.” Violet replied. “Truthfully I don’t know how well this particular demon shall help us but either way help or not it shall prove a useful tool nonetheless.”
“The only one doing any heavy lifting here is me, Duchess.” Queen harrumphed. “Or do I need to tell Violet about every little incessant chattering and mischief people have been up to? Besides, you’ve got good help now.”
“H-hey now. No need to… Loose lips, sink ships, Queen.” Duchess stumbled around her wording before biting her lip and hiding her head behind Princess’. “Well, that aside, I hope to hear good news about this auction.” Duchess added.
“That’s what I thought.” Queen moved her hooves off the table, grunting as they could hear the telltale steps of the minotaur walking his way back up the stairs towards their room.
“I’m sure you all are already aware of the rest of the particulars about this operation,” Violet replied. “If not…well, you’ll receive your orders later. For now though…I think its about time we had ourselves some wine and dining, hm?”
The minotaur walked back into the room, carrying a gargantuan tray in his equally large hands. He’d set it down on the table, proceeding to divvy up the food as ordered.
“A lovely cut of elephant for the two lovely mortals.” He’d say, a few small imps flying into the room behind, pouring wine for the both of them. The food itself had been cooked to perfection, the meat tender and perfectly seasoned with herbs and spices. “We took the liberty of adding some familiar spices from the human realm and blending them with select ones from the demon realm.”
He’d swiftly grab a dark red colored, fluffy looking confectionary along with another slice of the elephant to Princess.
“Do enjoy, the chef put a particular attention into the frosting I believe.” Another swift movement and a plate was placed in front of Lucella. “A lizard roast, straight from the Second Circle.”
“Mhm…I do not believe I specified that.”
“Ah, well, do forgive me madam if I made a presumption…”
“...oh its fine. No need to spoil the mood.”
“And for you, the strongest and most expensive Primarch Tar wine and whale meat from the behemoths in the first circle. A delicacy only the high ranking demon nobles typically have the pleasure of. Will there be anything else?”
Duchess pushed the resting Princess off of her so the girl could eat. “Nothing else here, thank you.” She picked up her fork and started to poke at the meat in front of her with a somewhat sadistic grin crossing her face. “Serves you right~” She mentioned before picking up her wine glass and taking a small sip.
“No, that shall be all from us.”
“Very well, if you need anything else, it shall be our pleasure to serve.” The Minotaur would take the trays, and the imps would follow him out.
“Haven’t I told you never to play with your food.” Violet replied with a eyeroll and a small smile as she’d cut into the meat herself, not taking a second glance at it as she’d lean over, offering a piece of meat to Duchess. “Or am I going to have to feed you myself.”
Duchess’ grin softened, “Well, you don’t hear me complaining do you?” She asked as she leaned forward and stole the meat from the fork like a shark biting some poor wretches hand from their body.
“You…” Queen merely looked on in a slight bit of exasperation while Lucelle watched with obvious amusement. “...for two demon loving mortals…why bloody hell do you two have any reason to be so lovey-dovey.”
“Tch,” Violet pulled back, blushing a bit. “Shut up, demon. I’ve been busy and haven’t been home in a while. Consider it a blessing any of you even get to see me like this.”
“Well, I consider it a blessing.” Duchess teased, giggling to herself before grabbing her knife and start to cut into her food.
“Just remember to keep yourselves unnoticed and this next operation will go off without a hitch.” with a final minor bit of protesting from Violet, the group would spend the rest of the evening carousing, chatting, and otherwise still getting on each others nerves as the evening dragged on, until night would eventually fall, and one by one the group would soon leave one after the other through the night until Violet would be the last one to stay, leaving only well after midnight in the early hours of the morning…
"I'll send you an invoice for saving your arm later." Mella confidently stated with her usual neutral expression. Now the only thing was to get away before the bird did anything like give any sign that she knew exactly what was going on or that the bird somehow decided to stay with her.
She felt a set of bird feet perch on her head.
"Shoo, bird." She'd say, making an attempt at waving the bird off. She had no desire to get caught up with any holy creature unless said holy creature was worth the entirety of the country in its net worth that she could sell or profit from. More importantly though, was the little kitten that had accepted its fate, it seemed. She'd relax her grip on it just slightly, adjusting so she could hold it a little better and more comfortably with it resting on her shoulder instead of being firmly pressed against her. "More importantly...for helping you catch these runaway animals, I believe fair compensation is in order, sir?"
“I beg your pardon, sir? Show me, immediately.” Giles demanded, frowning deeply at the statements Dragan was making. How could…why would someone do such a thing? He couldn’t fathom it, let alone someone among the villagers. Certainly some had thought that capturing and training or studying them was a good idea, but he had always refused. Too dangerous.
Had someone gone against his orders?
However, when he was taken to the scene, all he could do was sigh.
“...So that’s how it is.” He’d grumble. “This building was unoccupied, until very recently you see.” He’d hold a hand to his mouth, quietly stifling a gag as he’d observe the scene. “Quite a dreadful scene…ugh, anyways,” He’d glance towards Dragan. “Three travelers arrived some time ago. Asked if they could stay. We had no reason to refuse. A man and two women. Two dressed like they had come right out of the old world, and the third claimed to be a traveling scholar and alchemist, though her manner of dress was much more…shall we say, old.” He’d frown. “She made an effort to inform everyone she was just traveling with them for a mutual deal for now, but the other two claimed to be from something called the ‘Ithica Society’. They left for that damned city some days ago now. The alchemist left a few days before them, into the forest.”
Aleksiya’s own investigation however, would not go unfruitful. It was faint. Diluted. Horribly so. To call it the blood of a prestigious vampire lord was laughable…but she could feel it. Something familiar. Something ever so faintly familiar. A feeling of animalistic vigor…but also irritation and anger. An almost feral rage at…something.
There was no mistaking it. Kordelia…but what was she so angry at, and was she doing this on purpose if she was still alive?
The gorebat chirped, a bit annoyed it couldn’t eat the human and was forbidden from snacks, but it did as it was told, swooping off into the darkness.
“Hmph, any gods that do exist aren’t ones I’d want to-Weh!?” Julene shouted, not expecting the woman to just pick her up so easily. She’d struggle only briefly. “Y-you put me down! This instant you hear me!” But alas, her pleas fell on deaf ears as Akyasha would refuse to do so. “Tch, fine. Whatever you fake nun, fine! Thata way.” Julene’s directions would soon enough lead them towards a surprisingly well kept and reinforced home, from the looks of all the others. The walls had all been reinforced, remade, and several walls had obviously been replaced. The first floor had even been expanded quite a bit, to make room for an indoor forge as well as a general workshop it seemed. The second floor had well, been completely removed. One of the walls completely knocked out, a ladder leading up to the roof with several platforms along the way stocked with barrels and also what seemed to be toher supplies.
Intentionally done, perhaps?
“You can put me down now.” She’d huff, and if Akyasha didn’t drop her, she’d give the nun a whack on the top of her head until she did.
“Here. Workshop takes up most of the place…ah? Another one?” This was about the time Luna would walk up on the trio, earning an exasperated sigh from the Blacksmith. “...I ain’t even surprised anymore. Whatever.”
She’d keep writing into the small book she was writing in for a few long, awkward seconds after Argus responded. It was only after these few long seconds, that she'd turn around, and immediately set eyes on the pirate.
“Moons tears!” She’d shout, jumping back a few feet and bumping into the table and causing the glassware to rattle. “Hasn’t anyone ever told you not to sneak up on someone? They might turn you into a toad!” She’d close the journal she was carrying, stuffing it into her tattered robes. Now that he could get a good look at the woman in question, she was…well, she fit right in with these woods.
Short, shoulder length messy brown hair with yellow eyes with more baggage than an emotional nobleman from the old world. The clothes under them seemed to almost be falling apart at the seams, with just a cloth covering her chest and a small skirt covering her lower body. The cloak though, was the most curious thing. Well taken care of…but it certainly wasn’t something she could have made herself. It seemed older. Almost more regal.
A bone ring adorned her finger, made out of some sort of small bird skull.
“What do you want? I am a busy woman and have no time for idle chatter. If you’re heading towards that village in the distance, there’s a place you can cross the river not far down that way.” She’d huff. “If you’re looking for my services…I’m curious as to how you found me all the way out here, but stranger things happen. I don’t come cheap as a healer or scholar.”
"Ahaha, easy!" Cecil laughed heartily as her arrows found their marks. The creatures knees being severed, its arm ripped nearly in twain from the burst of wind. Fleshy undead were no more tough than men, really. All could be taken care of pretty easily...as long as well, they both stayed dead.
"Cecil! Stay alert something's not right!"
Was all the warning Cecil would have as the undead beast seemed to mutate. Tendrils of red exploding from the beasts body, coiling through the air and reaching outwards, immediately reaching towards the captain and those near it. Frowning, she'd quickly take a moment to assess the situation. Its weapon had been dealt with. Momentarily immobilized. Maybe if they took out its torso? She could do it, but it'd take a few arrows.
Which meant...its head.
"Don't have to tell me twice!"
An arrow, quickly knocked. An exhale. It wasn't often she pulled on the full extent of her magical abilities from Shael...but she might as well make the most of it, here.
"O Guidance of the wind, guide, strike true that which is impure - Shael, Windburst!"
Instead of a twang, there was a solid fwoosh as the arrow was loosed. A simple spell of both guidance from the wind, as well as the Windburst. Supposing it didn't move, it should hit. Should.
The axe swung, intending to strike Fleuri down. It might have met its target too, at least the blast damage might have...had it not been for Vier stepping into the Axe's path, despite it glowing with explosive, arcane might.
A metallic clang was briefly heard followed by a boom as the blades connected. A flash of light, dust and debris billowing from the area as Vier would find his vision suddenly jolted upwards as his feet left the ground, his sword arm straining from the impact as his blade took the full force of the axe's explosive might. He'd hit the ground, hard, rolling a few feet along the cold ground of the mausoleum and blade clanging to the ground next to him, his arm throbbing with pain.
He'd heft his axe once more, swiftly, intending a follow up strike on Flueri, but Steffen had other ideas. He couldn't stop Vier from taking the blow, but Vier had no doubt at least saved Flueri the misfortune from being on the receiving end of the explosive enchantment as Steffen rammed the man, hammering his shoulder into the warriors body, earning a grunt from him as he'd be forced briefly off balance, having to change his stance to prevent himself from being knocked over.
"Tch," He'd grumble, attempting to raise his axe only to find Steffen preventing him from doing so, grunting in mild pain Flueri would make a move to impale his neck on the knights blade. Unable to properly deflect or avoid, Flueri would find his blade barely sinking into the mans flesh, a shallow cut as he'd barely manage to move his head to the side.
He'd respond by simply raising his axe with one hand, arcane might glowing once more as he'd move his hand right up the haft to where the blade met, intending on bringing it down on Steffen's head at close range.
Of course, this was only a small feint. Even if Steffen moved, he'd immediately grab the end of the axe with his now freed hand, swing it around and slam it into Flueri.
The Fomorian didn’t bother immediately responding, merely tilting his head up towards the hills as if she should hurry. Once at the top, she’d find Sucaria looking out over the craggy, rocky shoreline. The desolate, nighttime expanse extended far to the north, and along the shore in the distance she could see it.
A beast of some sort, walking along in the distance of the shoreline. It was too dark to make out, but where its head seemed to be were some sort of flickering, yellow fire burning into the skies. Pale and sickly, while various spots of its presumably extremely long body extended down the rocky cliffside and into the sea below. It was sitting fairly low to the ground, but she couldn’t make out much more besides what could probably be four legs, curled at its side.
More notably though, was the entire host of Fomorian’s that had gathered around it…in an almost worshiping like manner. It was difficult for her to make them out too much as well, but they were carrying torches of similar yellow fire.
Sucaria stood at the top of the hill, seemingly transfixed.
“We call it the Ollipheist.” The Fomorian replied. “Dangerous beast, even the brainless fools among our kind even avoid. The thing has the power to enthrall us…and only us. I don’t know what it is about that fire, but anyone with Fomorian blood aside from those of our particular lineage are affected by it.”
The tree creaked in groaned, bark breaking and giving way under the strain of being assaulted. The creature, though was no longer singing. The Melody had silenced, though that sweet smell still lingered in the air as the crack widened and widened, as the thing began to shudder and -
Crack
The entire side of the tree facing Ethelred cracked apart. With a shriek, and a shudder, the trees entire fleshy bark began to shudder, its branches retreating back towards its body as an odd, green goo began leaking from the wound.
“NNgh…will I? Can I? Bloom? Bloom prettily?” For a moment, it seemed the tree may indeed have something else up its branches. From this green goo, at the very top of the tree between its branches where the crack was being pried apart what appeared to be a giant hand was reaching out…before it’d lose all cohesion and fall back in on itself.
“GGhhk…ah…no-no…to soon…too soon…” The voice lamented, the tree would fall over onto its side with a thud. “Ah, I’m sorry…sorry mother…sorry…I couldn’t…”
The Unseelie that had been surrounding Luana immediately froze, turning to see the felled tree. A few tense seconds of silence.
“...Ah, the bullies killed sister!”
“Meanies! Meanies!”
“Run away! Waaah, mommy!~”
The group would proceed to do just that, fleeing into the underbrush.
“I want to speak with this Queen’s Court Mage.” Rael responded with a humph. “I can not stay long, and anything we discuss is meant for them, not…extremely physically fit peasants like you.” Oddly enough, it didn’t seem like she was trying to say that as an insult as she’d head into Airedale proper. “You wouldn’t happen to know where the keep is, would you? I would erm, like to not get lost. N-not that I would, ahah.”
“Eeeep!” The Unseelie immediately knew she had, as one might say, royally messed up. From the moment her ‘curse’ if it could even be called that seemed completely ineffective, from the clearly outmatched magical power that this ‘child’ she had antagonized had begun to summon. The more Fio ranted, the more the fairy shrunk in demeanor and seemed to almost want to retreat into Fio’s hand for protection.
“Fio Fanny Fannise?” The fairy responded, tilting her head to the side, clearly not particularly feeling threatened despite Fio’s apparent rage or her deciding to hide. “Fia Fanna Fannise? Ahahaha, what a long silly name! Humans have really long silly names, ahahah. Fanny, pfft.” The fairy in question seemed to be quite amused by this. “Okay human you made me laugh so I’ll be so gracious as to not super curse you for this transgression of touching me. In fact, I’ll let you have the honor of doing a task for me!” The fairy would nod. “Your house is now mine! Don’t you feel honored, yes? A great and powerful unseelie like me giving you the boon of my presence! Hahah, you should thank me now!”
[center][img]https://i.imgur.com/jjKSxTj.png[/img][/center]
Hello! Welcome to my little bio.
Not much to say, really. Just a horror game protag that likes writing and playing vidya games when I'm not being chased by the cosmic forces of darkness. (I'm a security guard that works night shifts usually).
Have some dancing medjed.
[img]https://i.redd.it/q95hk1tobbv11.gif[/img]
<div style="white-space:pre-wrap;"><div class="bb-center"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/jjKSxTj.png" /></div><br><br>Hello! Welcome to my little bio.<br><br>Not much to say, really. Just a horror game protag that likes writing and playing vidya games when I'm not being chased by the cosmic forces of darkness. (I'm a security guard that works night shifts usually).<br><br>Have some dancing medjed.<br><br><img src="https://i.redd.it/q95hk1tobbv11.gif" /></div>
Danyel
datadogie
The Red Seelie
rush99999
Xiro Zean
Cu Chulainn
Alfhedil
Ojiro Mashirao
Gerlando
Izurich
