Not sure putting anything related to Xerneas into a vein is a good idea, personally =P
- Last Seen: 4 yrs ago
- Joined: 11 yrs ago
- Posts: 699 (0.18 / day)
- VMs: 1
-
Username history
- Sickle-cell 11 yrs ago
-
Latest 10 profile visitors:
-
Most recent →
PlatinumSkink
Status
Recent Statuses
7 yrs ago
Current
How's about no?
2
likes
7 yrs ago
When you go from walking around at 5am like a half shut knife to bouncing out your bed 10 minutes before the alarm goes off within a month of early starts at work. Self-improvement, ho!
4
likes
7 yrs ago
Celebrating the one-month anniversary of my RP starting! 135 IC posts already and still growing. Also still accepting players, so hop on over if you are interested in gritty superheroes. All welcome!
5
likes
7 yrs ago
How to know when your day as a home shopper will be busy - when your boss can't be arsed counting all the orders to pick so he logs the official total as 'mental' :-P
4
likes
7 yrs ago
Best feelings as a GM #1 - Sitting at work cackling because a player has literally set up an amazing plot hook without realising it. *evil chuckle*
11
likes
Bio
Well, where to begin?
I found my love of roleplays through a brief block of sessions of D&D when I screwed up enough and brought an class from an entirely different plane to join the main party. After following the plot to the end - which involved our dwarven pilot flying a gunship while simultaneously controlling 4 cannons by tying string around them - we ended up crashing through a portal onto a different plane. When attempting to formulate a plan, one of the PCs delivered a line that has stayed with me ever since.
"Ask the artificer, he's already done it once."
Since then, I've done a 3+ year RP between two players - using the FATE system - in which we created an entire city through creating mentally unstable characters and callus cold-blooded killers. One particularly nasty NPC came about by a sheer accident, when the melee-build character out-snarked the diplomat. Which was much more fun than it sounds. Had a bad experience with this site before, in which the GM didn't plan far enough ahead to include any NPCs whatsoever, and the other characters had no interest in Player-to-Player interactions outside of their own 2-man group. Needless to say, it died with incredible speed, which was a shame.
But I was tempted back by a friend to play a Pokemon RP despite having no knowledge whatsoever of the topic outside of Gen 1 stuff, and even that was years ago. Despite everything, I've not only been holding my own, but coming up with a completely separate sub-plot from the main plot, and making the GM's life a misery. (Sorry Zan!)
My writing style draws heavily from the likes of Worm and The Dresden Files, which means I can do a great deal of two things. Snark and Escalation. Outside of that, I like to think i'm a dynamic roleplayer, but I prefer sticking to High Fantasy sort of settings. Anything Slice of Life-y doesn't do it for me. Unless i'm slinging magic, psuedo-magic or demons (while snarking at whoever is unlucky enough to warrant it) I feel as though I could be doing something more entertaining with my time. When it comes to RP systems, I enjoy FATE or narrative based things.
My first RP which I am GMing on this site is themed around Dragon Age as carried on from the far superior (in my humble opinion) plot of the first game.
That's pretty much all there is to know about me that people would actually care about. I'll update it as I do with important changes or epic moments. Until then, feel free to PM me if you have questions or invites to stuff, and i'll respond as soon as I can. ^.^
I found my love of roleplays through a brief block of sessions of D&D when I screwed up enough and brought an class from an entirely different plane to join the main party. After following the plot to the end - which involved our dwarven pilot flying a gunship while simultaneously controlling 4 cannons by tying string around them - we ended up crashing through a portal onto a different plane. When attempting to formulate a plan, one of the PCs delivered a line that has stayed with me ever since.
"Ask the artificer, he's already done it once."
Since then, I've done a 3+ year RP between two players - using the FATE system - in which we created an entire city through creating mentally unstable characters and callus cold-blooded killers. One particularly nasty NPC came about by a sheer accident, when the melee-build character out-snarked the diplomat. Which was much more fun than it sounds. Had a bad experience with this site before, in which the GM didn't plan far enough ahead to include any NPCs whatsoever, and the other characters had no interest in Player-to-Player interactions outside of their own 2-man group. Needless to say, it died with incredible speed, which was a shame.
But I was tempted back by a friend to play a Pokemon RP despite having no knowledge whatsoever of the topic outside of Gen 1 stuff, and even that was years ago. Despite everything, I've not only been holding my own, but coming up with a completely separate sub-plot from the main plot, and making the GM's life a misery. (Sorry Zan!)
My writing style draws heavily from the likes of Worm and The Dresden Files, which means I can do a great deal of two things. Snark and Escalation. Outside of that, I like to think i'm a dynamic roleplayer, but I prefer sticking to High Fantasy sort of settings. Anything Slice of Life-y doesn't do it for me. Unless i'm slinging magic, psuedo-magic or demons (while snarking at whoever is unlucky enough to warrant it) I feel as though I could be doing something more entertaining with my time. When it comes to RP systems, I enjoy FATE or narrative based things.
My first RP which I am GMing on this site is themed around Dragon Age as carried on from the far superior (in my humble opinion) plot of the first game.
That's pretty much all there is to know about me that people would actually care about. I'll update it as I do with important changes or epic moments. Until then, feel free to PM me if you have questions or invites to stuff, and i'll respond as soon as I can. ^.^
Most Recent Posts
@ThundercrashBump in to her, I'm sure she'd be more than happy to share it.
@ThundercrashWell, I couldn't exactly have her getting praise as someone who is benevolent, generous and all things nicey-nicey on my part, could I? =P
Looking forwards to it ^.^
Portal yourself a piano. Although Salsa dancing definitely gets my vote =P
The float didn’t look much better than it had originally, but at least those bloody diamonds weren’t on it any longer. Although they had certainly put up a strong fight. One of Tantalus’s hands bled slightly from the sharp edges, and a small flash of power had been needed to repair the skin. Nevertheless, the job was done, and he felt much happier because of it. The attendants were about to have a small aneurysm when he attempted to remove the depiction of Xerneas from the float, and he had neither the time nor patience to heal another one, so that had to stay. Now, the parade was rolling along and the alterations would have to do.
Just to the front of the mock Xerneas was a old throne, carved out of a blackwood tree. The seat was located within the stump, boasted a high back. Starting from the arms, dark branches protruded in every direction, which continued to the very top of the throne. At the center, sat the King of the Fairies. Tantalus was wearing his usual armour, except for a single glaring change in the form of a dark blue and royal purple cape tied around his neck. In his left hand was a dark purple Life Orb, and his right held an elaborate spear. The bottom featured a large sapphire, surrounded by a thick silver loop connected to a crystal stalk, which was split into two sections halfway up by a band of the shiny metal. Tantalus held the silver haft of the weapon, encasing the crystal. A double helix spiraled above that, converging just before the head - crafted out of a lump of shaped sapphire - before it continued once more to the spear-point. The silver hugged the vibrantly blue stone so tightly that it appeared to strain the metal. Everything had been bought from the same place, a dusty antique store but a stone's throw away from the parade, and he was very happy with the purchases. Even if they had cost an exorbitant sum.
A cheaper transaction included the acquisition of twelve standard water bottles, evenly spaced out with four on the front half of the left and right sides, and four on the front. These water bottles would be integral to the display later, despite being hard to pick out at the current point in time.
Apate, who was currently situated on the very front of the float, also received a small silver circlet to match the one he usually wore. The Mawile seemed positively overjoyed by the event, supercharged by the energy that hung over the city like a cloud. Meanwhile, Tantalus sat like a general preparing for war. This parade was a battleground, and the only thing that mattered was defeating the others in a spectacular display of power. His fingers drummed on the spherical Life Orb, in anticipation. A triumphant cheer went up from further down the line - the first floats moving into the bulk of the crowd, then - and a determined smile broke out.
“Good Morning, Mr Swain.” Words began to swim within his mind, taking the man slightly aback at first.
“Xerneas. How nice to hear from you again. Was your nap enjoyable?” Tantalus asked, nervously wondering exactly where this was going.
Accompanied by the mental image of the Pokemon, Xerneas began to speak once more. “It was wonderful, actually. It is the singular thing I cannot complain about, oh host mine.”
The man slumped into the throne, slightly, closing his eyes. “I must admit, a civil conversation with you is not something which I envisioned happening.”
“Due to my outburst last night? Yes, it was my first taste of freedom in a long, long time. My actions may have been a tad… overzealous.” A dark smile crossed the Pokemon’s face. “I will conduct my business in the future with a greater level of decorum.”
Eyes opening narrowly, Tantalus was almost hesitant to ask. “And what business, pray tell, is that?”
A coarse laugh echoed within his mind. “Winning my freedom, of course.”
Exactly as he thought. “This is my body, and has been since I was born. You, by contrast, are a guest.”
“A guest?” Xerneas hissed. “I am no guest. This is my prison, and you, my warden. The existence which has been forced upon me for these past two years has been utterly laughable.” Standing tall, the mental image of the Pokemon changed as he began to glow a fiercely dark pink. “Locked away in the recesses of your mind, unable to do anything bar watch the world through your eyes. My only function in life to process the power I once possessed for your use. The idea that I am a guest here is nothing short of an insult.”
Glow fading, Xerneas sat down, a smile once more glaring out. “Of course, one lesson the years have taught me is patience. Therefore, I have no intention of rushing the matter. We can afford to play the long game, after all. You of all people understand that revenge must be perfect, especially when it has been due for such a length of time. Speaking of which, how are you planning to deal with Miss Bancroft?”
Sitting baffled, it took a few moments for Tantalus to actually take in what Xerneas was saying. Instead of trying to hide the frustration and what he was planning, he had openly informed the man of what the end goal was, and was now trying to make conversation with him. That unnerved Tantalus greatly, because it could only mean Xerneas was incredibly confident in whatever plan he had in store. “Read my thoughts. You tell me. Why, did you have a suggestion?”
Xerneas laughed again. “I am specifically not probing your thoughts, this is my only form of entertainment, and to spoil it would be boring. Allow me to make a suggestion, however. You have a spear. She is only three floats behind you, two of which are unoccupied. Even without a mass of physical prowess, you could land the shot from here, or even get closer if you prefered. What better way to win a dominance contest by striking down your opponent in front of her adoring public?”
There it was again, throwing around murder so casually. Wincing, Tantalus began to speak. “No. One, this spear isn’t made for combat. Sure, if it managed to hit her dead on, it would most likely kill her. However the tip is made from sapphire, which means it’s fragile and would shatter should it collide with something solid. Two, the woman controls gemstones. If she can see it coming, it won’t work.”
Expression growing dark, Tantalus slid down into his throne a little more. “And finally, i’m not a murderer.”
“Oh, but you are. I know what you’ve done.” The Pokemon’s smile was sickening.
He grimaced. “That was an accident, it wasn’t supposed to end that way. Besides, dealing with matters without killing people is much more satisfying. It means they are still alive to appreciate it.”
Xerneas chuckled. “I’ll take it under advisement. Of course, It might be possible for me to force you, but I’m genuinely interested to see how you plan to address it. Do not bore me, host. Whatever you do, make it good.”
With that, Xerneas fell silent once more.
Well, at least he is being showing some degree of civility today, Tantalus thought to himself.
It was clear this would have to be dealt with, but not for now, at least. He was free to focus on more important matters for the time being. The stage was rapidly approaching, and he had a performance to give. Rising from the dark wooden throne, he tossed the spear up slightly, before catching it and leveling the point at Apate. You ready, partner? Tantalus drawled, smiling brightly.
The little Mawile was sitting on the edge of the float, waving to each and every on-looker. Definitely. What’s the plan?
Simple. I am going to blow each and every other Avatar out the water. He banged the bottom of the spear down on the ground. And you are going to help me do it.
The Xerneas float bumbled into the thick of the crowds who’s cheering and applause all but drowned out the music which had been heard earlier. Still, Tantalus sat upon his throne, Apate exactly where she rested before. Performing was not all about what you did, but when you did it. Sitting with a brim smile, the man was going to time his perfectly.
Just as the people began to bore from the lack of display from Tantalus, he pounced. Rising from the throne, he forced power down the length of the spear, turning it into a conductor. At the same time, the Life Orb glowed, showing it’s power was being drawn on. A burst of multicoloured light erupted from the end of the spear, crashing down against the front of the float. The use of the Aurora Beam began to lower the air temperature, slowly freezing the water inside the bottles. The Mawile leaped into action, dodging the stream, which then began to move across from left to right, then back again. Apate landed at Tantalus’s feet, as the frozen water expanded the plastic bottles to the point of bursting. Water flew into the air, as the rainbow stream scoured the airborne liquid. Beam fading, the cloud of icy mist that it had produced drifted off. What it had behind was a garden of ice constructions, random and beautiful. Their sizes varied immeasurably, but none stood higher than the man’s waist. Entirely covered by them on all sides except the back, the float held a menacing aura.
Twirling the spear, bringing his other hand skyward, a sweet-smelling cloud crept out towards the crowd. Power steadily began to gather around the Avatar, in the forms of cylinders of light, all different colours. Angling the spear down, Apate jumped on the end. With a flick of the wrist, the little Mawile soared up, twirling in midair before landing on top of him. As she did, the gathered power erupted from Tantalus, creating an aura of light which no-one could look at directly, diffracting in various colours and directions giving a mesmerising show.
High above the float, a cape fluttered away in the updraft created from the use of Geomancy. The light slowly ebbed away, and Tantalus stood capeless, with Apate firmly on his head. Both sported dark purple and blue glass butterfly wings, which continued to glint due to the activation of his healing aura. Geomancy had been a distraction tactic to allow for the removal of his cape without breaking the overall vibe of magic. The crowd adored the display, cheering and whooping all the while. Shimmering in various colours, the ice bathed the onlookers in a beautiful glow. Offering a formal bow - keeping his head straight - Apate copied the gesture. Opening a Light Screen behind him, Tantalus returned to a steady and commanding vigil over the parade, the Mawile remaining in pride of place on his head. The ice caused the entire float to emit a soft luster as it trundled down the street.
Chuckling, the man reigned over the nearby crowd luminously, partner in crime waving to the passing people in his stead. Tantalus couldn’t help but smile at the crowd, captivated by the display which had gone perfectly to plan.
Well then, Miss Bancroft. Your move.
Just to the front of the mock Xerneas was a old throne, carved out of a blackwood tree. The seat was located within the stump, boasted a high back. Starting from the arms, dark branches protruded in every direction, which continued to the very top of the throne. At the center, sat the King of the Fairies. Tantalus was wearing his usual armour, except for a single glaring change in the form of a dark blue and royal purple cape tied around his neck. In his left hand was a dark purple Life Orb, and his right held an elaborate spear. The bottom featured a large sapphire, surrounded by a thick silver loop connected to a crystal stalk, which was split into two sections halfway up by a band of the shiny metal. Tantalus held the silver haft of the weapon, encasing the crystal. A double helix spiraled above that, converging just before the head - crafted out of a lump of shaped sapphire - before it continued once more to the spear-point. The silver hugged the vibrantly blue stone so tightly that it appeared to strain the metal. Everything had been bought from the same place, a dusty antique store but a stone's throw away from the parade, and he was very happy with the purchases. Even if they had cost an exorbitant sum.
A cheaper transaction included the acquisition of twelve standard water bottles, evenly spaced out with four on the front half of the left and right sides, and four on the front. These water bottles would be integral to the display later, despite being hard to pick out at the current point in time.
Apate, who was currently situated on the very front of the float, also received a small silver circlet to match the one he usually wore. The Mawile seemed positively overjoyed by the event, supercharged by the energy that hung over the city like a cloud. Meanwhile, Tantalus sat like a general preparing for war. This parade was a battleground, and the only thing that mattered was defeating the others in a spectacular display of power. His fingers drummed on the spherical Life Orb, in anticipation. A triumphant cheer went up from further down the line - the first floats moving into the bulk of the crowd, then - and a determined smile broke out.
“Good Morning, Mr Swain.” Words began to swim within his mind, taking the man slightly aback at first.
“Xerneas. How nice to hear from you again. Was your nap enjoyable?” Tantalus asked, nervously wondering exactly where this was going.
Accompanied by the mental image of the Pokemon, Xerneas began to speak once more. “It was wonderful, actually. It is the singular thing I cannot complain about, oh host mine.”
The man slumped into the throne, slightly, closing his eyes. “I must admit, a civil conversation with you is not something which I envisioned happening.”
“Due to my outburst last night? Yes, it was my first taste of freedom in a long, long time. My actions may have been a tad… overzealous.” A dark smile crossed the Pokemon’s face. “I will conduct my business in the future with a greater level of decorum.”
Eyes opening narrowly, Tantalus was almost hesitant to ask. “And what business, pray tell, is that?”
A coarse laugh echoed within his mind. “Winning my freedom, of course.”
Exactly as he thought. “This is my body, and has been since I was born. You, by contrast, are a guest.”
“A guest?” Xerneas hissed. “I am no guest. This is my prison, and you, my warden. The existence which has been forced upon me for these past two years has been utterly laughable.” Standing tall, the mental image of the Pokemon changed as he began to glow a fiercely dark pink. “Locked away in the recesses of your mind, unable to do anything bar watch the world through your eyes. My only function in life to process the power I once possessed for your use. The idea that I am a guest here is nothing short of an insult.”
Glow fading, Xerneas sat down, a smile once more glaring out. “Of course, one lesson the years have taught me is patience. Therefore, I have no intention of rushing the matter. We can afford to play the long game, after all. You of all people understand that revenge must be perfect, especially when it has been due for such a length of time. Speaking of which, how are you planning to deal with Miss Bancroft?”
Sitting baffled, it took a few moments for Tantalus to actually take in what Xerneas was saying. Instead of trying to hide the frustration and what he was planning, he had openly informed the man of what the end goal was, and was now trying to make conversation with him. That unnerved Tantalus greatly, because it could only mean Xerneas was incredibly confident in whatever plan he had in store. “Read my thoughts. You tell me. Why, did you have a suggestion?”
Xerneas laughed again. “I am specifically not probing your thoughts, this is my only form of entertainment, and to spoil it would be boring. Allow me to make a suggestion, however. You have a spear. She is only three floats behind you, two of which are unoccupied. Even without a mass of physical prowess, you could land the shot from here, or even get closer if you prefered. What better way to win a dominance contest by striking down your opponent in front of her adoring public?”
There it was again, throwing around murder so casually. Wincing, Tantalus began to speak. “No. One, this spear isn’t made for combat. Sure, if it managed to hit her dead on, it would most likely kill her. However the tip is made from sapphire, which means it’s fragile and would shatter should it collide with something solid. Two, the woman controls gemstones. If she can see it coming, it won’t work.”
Expression growing dark, Tantalus slid down into his throne a little more. “And finally, i’m not a murderer.”
“Oh, but you are. I know what you’ve done.” The Pokemon’s smile was sickening.
He grimaced. “That was an accident, it wasn’t supposed to end that way. Besides, dealing with matters without killing people is much more satisfying. It means they are still alive to appreciate it.”
Xerneas chuckled. “I’ll take it under advisement. Of course, It might be possible for me to force you, but I’m genuinely interested to see how you plan to address it. Do not bore me, host. Whatever you do, make it good.”
With that, Xerneas fell silent once more.
Well, at least he is being showing some degree of civility today, Tantalus thought to himself.
It was clear this would have to be dealt with, but not for now, at least. He was free to focus on more important matters for the time being. The stage was rapidly approaching, and he had a performance to give. Rising from the dark wooden throne, he tossed the spear up slightly, before catching it and leveling the point at Apate. You ready, partner? Tantalus drawled, smiling brightly.
The little Mawile was sitting on the edge of the float, waving to each and every on-looker. Definitely. What’s the plan?
Simple. I am going to blow each and every other Avatar out the water. He banged the bottom of the spear down on the ground. And you are going to help me do it.
The Xerneas float bumbled into the thick of the crowds who’s cheering and applause all but drowned out the music which had been heard earlier. Still, Tantalus sat upon his throne, Apate exactly where she rested before. Performing was not all about what you did, but when you did it. Sitting with a brim smile, the man was going to time his perfectly.
Just as the people began to bore from the lack of display from Tantalus, he pounced. Rising from the throne, he forced power down the length of the spear, turning it into a conductor. At the same time, the Life Orb glowed, showing it’s power was being drawn on. A burst of multicoloured light erupted from the end of the spear, crashing down against the front of the float. The use of the Aurora Beam began to lower the air temperature, slowly freezing the water inside the bottles. The Mawile leaped into action, dodging the stream, which then began to move across from left to right, then back again. Apate landed at Tantalus’s feet, as the frozen water expanded the plastic bottles to the point of bursting. Water flew into the air, as the rainbow stream scoured the airborne liquid. Beam fading, the cloud of icy mist that it had produced drifted off. What it had behind was a garden of ice constructions, random and beautiful. Their sizes varied immeasurably, but none stood higher than the man’s waist. Entirely covered by them on all sides except the back, the float held a menacing aura.
Twirling the spear, bringing his other hand skyward, a sweet-smelling cloud crept out towards the crowd. Power steadily began to gather around the Avatar, in the forms of cylinders of light, all different colours. Angling the spear down, Apate jumped on the end. With a flick of the wrist, the little Mawile soared up, twirling in midair before landing on top of him. As she did, the gathered power erupted from Tantalus, creating an aura of light which no-one could look at directly, diffracting in various colours and directions giving a mesmerising show.
High above the float, a cape fluttered away in the updraft created from the use of Geomancy. The light slowly ebbed away, and Tantalus stood capeless, with Apate firmly on his head. Both sported dark purple and blue glass butterfly wings, which continued to glint due to the activation of his healing aura. Geomancy had been a distraction tactic to allow for the removal of his cape without breaking the overall vibe of magic. The crowd adored the display, cheering and whooping all the while. Shimmering in various colours, the ice bathed the onlookers in a beautiful glow. Offering a formal bow - keeping his head straight - Apate copied the gesture. Opening a Light Screen behind him, Tantalus returned to a steady and commanding vigil over the parade, the Mawile remaining in pride of place on his head. The ice caused the entire float to emit a soft luster as it trundled down the street.
Chuckling, the man reigned over the nearby crowd luminously, partner in crime waving to the passing people in his stead. Tantalus couldn’t help but smile at the crowd, captivated by the display which had gone perfectly to plan.
Well then, Miss Bancroft. Your move.
We have finally arrived at the parade. I'll detail the description of Tantalus's alterations IC during the parade, based on how much leeway i have to fiddle with it =P
Having finished off the wonderful breakfast provided free of charge by a very generous host, claiming that his patronage alone would do wonders for drumming up business, Tantalus had returned to his room for a brief moment to change into something more suited for a parade. Being without the elaborate armour which had become more like a second skin to him than a fashion choice was almost unbearable, and it simply would not do to appear before the public without it. After the quick detour, and reconvening with Seras, the two Avatars headed out to the parade.
On the way there, several people had stopped them to comment on how good their outfits were and other trivial nonsense. It would seem that genuine Avatars were being mistaken for the costumed fools today, although that was probably for the best, Tantalus mused. If people realised it was him, after what had happened, things might get ugly. The parade was going to be a test of that, certainly, but that fact was all that had prevented the activation of his power to garner the proper respect from those so-called merrymakers.
The two Avatars had arrived at the staging ground for the parade, where the floats were present in all their glory. Each was easily recognisable to their respective Legendary Pokemon, and so It didn’t take long to find the one meant for Xerneas. Tantalus wondered how much work had went into unused floats for Avatars who hadn’t shown up to the party, or whether each Avatar would have a float regardless their presence.
Glancing over the float designed for the Avatar of Xerneas, a disgusted scowl washed over his face. Not much at all, judging by the state of this. It wasn’t fit for a street rat, let alone the very embodiment of life. He had been considering leaving the city, wandering off with only Apate for company once more, thinking that would be the best idea. Getting out of the way of the others, attempting to deal with whatever was going on in his head. Looking at this sorry excuse for a float had just sealed the deal.
Circling the floats like vultures were a large number of costumed festival-goers, showing off a variety of Legendary Pokemon. A few could be seen dressed as something supposed to resemble himself, as Xerneas. Unfortunately, the reproductions only held true if the elaborate spikes on his shoulders had been made from cardboard toilet roll tubes. A mental sigh plagued his thoughts for several moments. I really wish my followers had better dress sense.
On the other hand, Seras was utterly overjoyed. Dozens of cosplayers surrounded her float, and while it was evident that someone had picked out the best from the crowd, the range of beautiful hand-made costumes they each wore was simply breathtaking. Not a few years ago, she wouldn’t even look at herself in the mirror - now all of these women (and a small handful of men) actively wanted to be like her. Never mind riding the floats - these people deserve to walk shoulder-to-shoulder with their favourite avatar.
She beamed gleefully at Tantalus. “Impressive turnout, isn’t it?”.
“Well, I wouldn’t be seen dead riding that.” The man said, bitterly.
“The guests adore them, though,” Seras noted, voice tinged with a trace of disapproval.
It wasn’t entirely surprising that he would be dissatisfied with his float. Although her own tastes were practically mundane compared to Tantalus, she’d become uncomfortably used to small indulgences since becoming an avatar - wearing formal gowns or having fans would have been utterly unimaginable in the past. If anyone had ever curbed Tantalus’ indulgence or refused to meet his standards in the last two years, then Seras would personally sculpt that poor soul a cathedral. It was doubtful that he was used to hearing ‘no.’
That was all well and good for private affairs, but there were thousands of guests and cosplayers who’d crossed continents to see them and leaving them hanging would be outright cruel. They deserved respect. Not that Tantalus would be overly concerned - he’d need a far more tangible reason to sully himself than simple altruism. After a moment’s thought, an impish grin bloomed across her face. She couldn’t help it.
“The question isn’t whether the floats are sufficient. The question is whether you can deal with a handicap.”
With the gauntlet well and truly thrown, the words impacted like a truck into the man’s delicate ego. Only just managing to swallow a flare of surprised rage over Seras’s jest, his previous doubts about attending the parade had been incinerated in an instant. Tantalus quickly decided that this infernal woman was going to pay dearly for that remark, and that watching her break would be nothing short of immensely satisfying.
Smiling darkly at Seras, he began to speak softly, so to mask the irritation present. “I’m going to make sure that I don’t need to. Over dinner, you mentioned that you do gemstone commissions to generate the finances you use to travel.” Chuckling lightly, he produced a checkbook and stared directly at the woman. “So, how much money can you afford to turn down to spite me, I ask?”
Spite? Seras had expected Tantalus to be somewhat offended - regrettably unavoidable when challenging his ego - but she hadn’t expected him to take things quite so personally. On the other hand, that meant that he’d gone for the bait.
“Oh, I don’t need to turn you down at all,” she smiled sweetly. “After all, everyone would know that you begged the avatar of Diancie for help rather than stand on your own merit.”
And I hardly need money - the festival alone will put my statues on the global market.
“Then I shall simply use the funds in a more productive manner. It would seem that I have some shopping to do before the parade begins. I will make sure that this will not be the last time we meet, Miss Bancroft.” Tantalus began walking away, before briefly stopping to glance over his shoulder. “And for reference, the people who have seen me beg tend not to remember it for very long.”
Seras grinned. Game, set and match.
“Most people aren’t avatars, darling. I plan to remember this moment for centuries.” She watched a flash of pure malice cross his eyes - unusual for someone so outwardly composed - before Tantalus turned and stalked off wordlessly into the crowd.
Well, that went better than expected. Barbing him so much might have been slightly unnecessary, but it had been months since she’d verbally sparred with someone who she’d consider a friend. Arguing with the other avatars yesterday had been frustrating, but based on the double-barreled tongue lashing they’d delivered yesterday, she’d pegged Tantalus as someone who’d enjoy the banter. An opportunity to prove his superiority seemed like an incredibly Tantalus sort of thing.
Ah well. No harm done.
Seras approached the Kalos floats, grinning shamelessly to herself. The Tournament of Legends this afternoon was little more than a glorified arm-wrestling contest - certainly amusing to watch, but demonstrating little more than the crudest form of prowess. This unexpected contest with Tantalus was a far more interesting competition and she was genuinely curious to see his next move.
She waited until Tantalus was well out of sight, then began pimping his ride.
Walking through the streets of Mauville City, Tantalus’s blood was boiling in a fit of malevolent fury. To say that he had underestimated Seras slightly didn’t even nearly cover the matter. Xerneas flashed through his mind, and for a fleeting moment he wondered if staying here was the right thing to do. Leaving would most likely be the safer option, not just for him, but everyone else present for the festivities. But what would she say if i did? Gritting his teeth, the decision was made. Tantalus couldn’t afford to just walk away. If this was the last thing he would ever do, then not a single soul in Hoenn would ever forget his name. Not least Seras Bancroft. Somehow, he would keep Xerneas under wraps for a little while longer. No-one was going to get in the way of this. We would see who was begging when she was dealt a bad hand and required healing services. Then the circumstances for his revenge would be perfect. But why wait? I’ve made a living off of forcing the matter, after all he thought, a sneer clear on his face.
Having collected a few vital pieces from stores around the city as fast as possible, he arrived back at the float to prepare to decorate it. All the while, Apate had been hurriedly chasing him, nervously scanning around. It was rare to see the man this angry. Eyes wide in sheer horror, the Mawile looked in anguish at the scene before her. The float had been bad before, but the sight of it now curdled Tantalus’s very blood.
It was covered in diamonds.
That utter bitch.
On the way there, several people had stopped them to comment on how good their outfits were and other trivial nonsense. It would seem that genuine Avatars were being mistaken for the costumed fools today, although that was probably for the best, Tantalus mused. If people realised it was him, after what had happened, things might get ugly. The parade was going to be a test of that, certainly, but that fact was all that had prevented the activation of his power to garner the proper respect from those so-called merrymakers.
The two Avatars had arrived at the staging ground for the parade, where the floats were present in all their glory. Each was easily recognisable to their respective Legendary Pokemon, and so It didn’t take long to find the one meant for Xerneas. Tantalus wondered how much work had went into unused floats for Avatars who hadn’t shown up to the party, or whether each Avatar would have a float regardless their presence.
Glancing over the float designed for the Avatar of Xerneas, a disgusted scowl washed over his face. Not much at all, judging by the state of this. It wasn’t fit for a street rat, let alone the very embodiment of life. He had been considering leaving the city, wandering off with only Apate for company once more, thinking that would be the best idea. Getting out of the way of the others, attempting to deal with whatever was going on in his head. Looking at this sorry excuse for a float had just sealed the deal.
Circling the floats like vultures were a large number of costumed festival-goers, showing off a variety of Legendary Pokemon. A few could be seen dressed as something supposed to resemble himself, as Xerneas. Unfortunately, the reproductions only held true if the elaborate spikes on his shoulders had been made from cardboard toilet roll tubes. A mental sigh plagued his thoughts for several moments. I really wish my followers had better dress sense.
On the other hand, Seras was utterly overjoyed. Dozens of cosplayers surrounded her float, and while it was evident that someone had picked out the best from the crowd, the range of beautiful hand-made costumes they each wore was simply breathtaking. Not a few years ago, she wouldn’t even look at herself in the mirror - now all of these women (and a small handful of men) actively wanted to be like her. Never mind riding the floats - these people deserve to walk shoulder-to-shoulder with their favourite avatar.
She beamed gleefully at Tantalus. “Impressive turnout, isn’t it?”.
“Well, I wouldn’t be seen dead riding that.” The man said, bitterly.
“The guests adore them, though,” Seras noted, voice tinged with a trace of disapproval.
It wasn’t entirely surprising that he would be dissatisfied with his float. Although her own tastes were practically mundane compared to Tantalus, she’d become uncomfortably used to small indulgences since becoming an avatar - wearing formal gowns or having fans would have been utterly unimaginable in the past. If anyone had ever curbed Tantalus’ indulgence or refused to meet his standards in the last two years, then Seras would personally sculpt that poor soul a cathedral. It was doubtful that he was used to hearing ‘no.’
That was all well and good for private affairs, but there were thousands of guests and cosplayers who’d crossed continents to see them and leaving them hanging would be outright cruel. They deserved respect. Not that Tantalus would be overly concerned - he’d need a far more tangible reason to sully himself than simple altruism. After a moment’s thought, an impish grin bloomed across her face. She couldn’t help it.
“The question isn’t whether the floats are sufficient. The question is whether you can deal with a handicap.”
With the gauntlet well and truly thrown, the words impacted like a truck into the man’s delicate ego. Only just managing to swallow a flare of surprised rage over Seras’s jest, his previous doubts about attending the parade had been incinerated in an instant. Tantalus quickly decided that this infernal woman was going to pay dearly for that remark, and that watching her break would be nothing short of immensely satisfying.
Smiling darkly at Seras, he began to speak softly, so to mask the irritation present. “I’m going to make sure that I don’t need to. Over dinner, you mentioned that you do gemstone commissions to generate the finances you use to travel.” Chuckling lightly, he produced a checkbook and stared directly at the woman. “So, how much money can you afford to turn down to spite me, I ask?”
Spite? Seras had expected Tantalus to be somewhat offended - regrettably unavoidable when challenging his ego - but she hadn’t expected him to take things quite so personally. On the other hand, that meant that he’d gone for the bait.
“Oh, I don’t need to turn you down at all,” she smiled sweetly. “After all, everyone would know that you begged the avatar of Diancie for help rather than stand on your own merit.”
And I hardly need money - the festival alone will put my statues on the global market.
“Then I shall simply use the funds in a more productive manner. It would seem that I have some shopping to do before the parade begins. I will make sure that this will not be the last time we meet, Miss Bancroft.” Tantalus began walking away, before briefly stopping to glance over his shoulder. “And for reference, the people who have seen me beg tend not to remember it for very long.”
Seras grinned. Game, set and match.
“Most people aren’t avatars, darling. I plan to remember this moment for centuries.” She watched a flash of pure malice cross his eyes - unusual for someone so outwardly composed - before Tantalus turned and stalked off wordlessly into the crowd.
Well, that went better than expected. Barbing him so much might have been slightly unnecessary, but it had been months since she’d verbally sparred with someone who she’d consider a friend. Arguing with the other avatars yesterday had been frustrating, but based on the double-barreled tongue lashing they’d delivered yesterday, she’d pegged Tantalus as someone who’d enjoy the banter. An opportunity to prove his superiority seemed like an incredibly Tantalus sort of thing.
Ah well. No harm done.
Seras approached the Kalos floats, grinning shamelessly to herself. The Tournament of Legends this afternoon was little more than a glorified arm-wrestling contest - certainly amusing to watch, but demonstrating little more than the crudest form of prowess. This unexpected contest with Tantalus was a far more interesting competition and she was genuinely curious to see his next move.
She waited until Tantalus was well out of sight, then began pimping his ride.
Walking through the streets of Mauville City, Tantalus’s blood was boiling in a fit of malevolent fury. To say that he had underestimated Seras slightly didn’t even nearly cover the matter. Xerneas flashed through his mind, and for a fleeting moment he wondered if staying here was the right thing to do. Leaving would most likely be the safer option, not just for him, but everyone else present for the festivities. But what would she say if i did? Gritting his teeth, the decision was made. Tantalus couldn’t afford to just walk away. If this was the last thing he would ever do, then not a single soul in Hoenn would ever forget his name. Not least Seras Bancroft. Somehow, he would keep Xerneas under wraps for a little while longer. No-one was going to get in the way of this. We would see who was begging when she was dealt a bad hand and required healing services. Then the circumstances for his revenge would be perfect. But why wait? I’ve made a living off of forcing the matter, after all he thought, a sneer clear on his face.
Having collected a few vital pieces from stores around the city as fast as possible, he arrived back at the float to prepare to decorate it. All the while, Apate had been hurriedly chasing him, nervously scanning around. It was rare to see the man this angry. Eyes wide in sheer horror, the Mawile looked in anguish at the scene before her. The float had been bad before, but the sight of it now curdled Tantalus’s very blood.
It was covered in diamonds.
That utter bitch.
@Dawnscroll Small question since you didn't explain it IC, but how exactly does Lucas know about what happened with Xerneas? Genuinely curious, since he wasn't there, and bar a few onlookers who wouldn't have had a great idea on what was even happening, the other Avatars present at the time are nowhere near anyone else.
@ThundercrashNot at all. We are just heading out anyways, but I don't think we have the authority to stop you getting breakfast in the hotel for avatars even if we wanted to xD
© 2007-2024