Snagglepuss89

Celestial Bonds

Alexei

Alexei Ilyin-Melikov

Personal Information

Full Name: Alexei Ilyin-Melikov (Margrave Alexei III, Lord Protector of the North Basilevsa Republic)

Gender: Male

Age: 23

Appearance: Alexei isn't what one would call intimidating at first glance. Only a little above average in height and unremarkable in build, only the numerous scars adorning his body indicate that the nobleman had ever been anywhere near a battlefield. Following the latest fashions of his country, Alexei's hair is currently cut short- far shorter than most nobles in the south would tolerate- and the beginnings of a beard can be seen on his face. While he wears no typical outfit from day to day, red is usually incorporated in some form, the primary color of his house, and all of his clothing is clearly of expensive make. A clear indicator of his status, if his self confidence and ease of giving orders weren't enough.

Height: 5'11"

Weight: 162 lb

Background Information

History: Firstborn of four sons to Margrave Gigoriy IV, it was always Alexei's place to inherit his father's title, though the power that came with it had faded generations ago. The North Basilevsa Republic (South Basilevsa having been absorbed long before) had been governed by a parliament for almost a century, and their lord reduced to more of a figurehead than a ruler. Still, the family was expected to represent the NBR within the Grenheim Empire, and in times of war lead its armies of their Lord Protector.

That did not mean, however, that life was any easier for Margraves. With less time spent on governance, it had become a tradition to patrol the border with the Royal Dragoons and root out any raiders that might have slipped past the vast northern border intending to loot the countryside. Whether on patrol, attending parliament (For the Margrave too carried a vote) or traveling on a diplomatic mission, the Lord Protector of the Republic was always on the move.

Alexei himself would prove to be no exception. Though his childhood was unremarkable, he began riding out with his father and the Royal Dragoons at the age of fourteen. At the age of eighteen he rode back with his father's corpse, and assumed the mantle of Margrave. Since then he has spent most of his time patrolling the border with his men, and keeping in eye on the south for trouble within the Empire. Having little time to make any close friends outside of the mean he leads and his family.

Brief Personality: Amongst his family or men Alexei could be considered almost normal. Always mindful of his station, but free to joke and have fun. Though remaining mindful about the status difference between himself and commoners. Even while relaxed he isn't one to let someone rise too far above their station. Still, this is the least that can be expected from one of the nobility. This of course does not apply to his family members, the only people which he can act unrestrained around and comfortable that nothing he does will degrade the status of both him and the title he carries.

While in public however he is duty-bound and gravely serious. Trading pleasantries but not indulging in small talk if it can be avoided, and trying to get down to business as quickly as possible. There is a sense of self assurance and power that radiates from him as someone who knows and takes pride in their position, though this does not prevent him from bowing to the few people in the Empire who are above his station. The NBR has always bowed its head willingly to the Empire, and enjoyed a good level of autonomy as a result. A trend which he has no intentions of breaking.

Emotional Bond: ¯\_(ツ)_/¯

Partner: Yulia Zykova

Combat Information

Fighting Style: The NBR is famous for its light cavalry, and the Royal Dragoons exemplify this. As their leader, Alexei fights as they do, often using his maneuverability to disable his opponent, before moving in for the kill once weakened. Generations of fighting against raiders has generally removed any notion of there being honor in combat in the north, and any opening that presents itself will be exploited by Alexei. Whether this means a well timed pistol shot during a melee bout, or throwing a handful of gunpowder in the opponent's face to create an opening. While mounted none of these tricks are needed for him to beat most opponents, but on foot it helps to level the playing field against those more skilled than him.

Equipment: 2x flintlock pistols
A 32 inch cavalry sabre, in the style used by the NBR, and with a blue&gilt blade.
A thick overcoat commonly worn in the north, provides good protection against bladed weapons but is horrifically warm in most seasons.
Tundra, his grey gelding.
Gwaecledd, the blunt celestial sword.

Weaknesses: He can be quick to anger and slow to forgive, particularly if he feels an insult to his family name/title. Also, his extreme sense of duty can prevent him from getting close to people of a lower social class. Not because he thinks less of them, but because the association might cause others to think less of him, and more importantly harm the prestige of his family.

Celestial Gear Information

Name: Gwaecledd

Type: Sword

Appearance:

Function: Life's Blood - Prevents the wounds of the user the bleeding, but does not actually heal any injuries or regenerate lost body parts.

Miscellaneous Information

Likes: Above all his family, the satisfaction of protecting his realm, fencing, riding
Dislikes: Recalcitrant behavior, warm weather, parties
Hobbies: Riding, literature, fencing, hunting.
Character Theme: La Madruga (Theme of the NBR)
Other: Current living family includes Anna (Mother, 50), Sergei (Brother, 20), Boris (Brother, 16), and Nikolay (Brother, 11)
Alexei shoots left handed when wielding a pistol.

Celestial Bonds

Migrating

Alexei

Alexei Ilyin-Melikov

Personal Information

Full Name: Alexei Ilyin-Melikov (Margrave Alexei III, Lord Protector of the North Basilevsa Republic)

Gender: Male

Age: 23

Appearance: Alexei isn't what one would call intimidating at first glance. Only a little above average in height and unintimidating in build, only the numerous scars adorning his body indicate that the nobleman had ever been anywhere near a battlefield. Following the latest fashions of his country, Alexei's hair is currently cut short- far shorter than most nobles in the south would tolerate- and the beginnings of a beard can be seen on his face. While he wear no typical outfit from day to do, red is usually incorporated in some form, the primary color of his house, and all of his clothing is clearly of expensive make. A clear indicator of his status, if his self confidence and ease of giving orders weren't enough.

Height: 5'11"

Weight: 162 lb

Background Information

History: Firstborn of four sons to Margrave Gigoriy IV, it was always Alexei's place to inherit his father's title, though the power that came with it had faded generations ago. The North Basilevsa Republic (South Basilevsa having been absorbed long before) had been governed by a parliament for almost a century, and their lord reduced to more of a figurehead than a ruler. Still, the family was expected to represent the NBR within the Grenheim Empire, and in times of war lead its armies of their Lord Protector.

That did not mean, however, that life was any easier for Margraves. With less time spent on governance, it had become a tradition to patrol the border with the Royal Dragoons and root out any raiders that might have slipped past the vast northern border intending to loot the countryside. Whether on a diplomatic mission, attending parliament (For the Margrave too carried a vote) or traveling on a diplomatic mission, the Lord Protector of the Republic was always on the move.

Alexei himself would prove to be no exception. Though his childhood was unremarkable, he began riding out with his father and the Royal Dragoons at the age of fourteen. At the age of eighteen he rode back with his father's corpse, and assumed the mantle of Margrave. Since then he has spent most of his time patrolling the border with his men, and keeping in eye on the south for trouble within the Empire. Having little time to make any close friends outside of the mean he leads and his family.

Brief Personality: Amongst his family or men Alexei could be considered almost normal. Always mindful of his station, but free to joke and have fun. Though remaining mindful about the status difference between himself and commoners. Even while relaxed he isn't one to let someone rise too far above their station. Still, this is the least that can be expected from one of the nobility. This of course does not apply to his family members, the only people which he can act unrestrained around and comfortable that nothing he does will degrade the status of both him and the title he carries.

While in public however he is duty-bound and gravely serious. Trading pleasantries but not indulging in small talk if it can be avoided, and trying to get down to business as quickly as possible. There is a sense of self assurance and power that radiates from him as someone who knows and takes pride in their position, though this does not prevent him from bowing to the few people in the Empire who are above his station. The NBR has always bowed its head willingly to the Empire, and enjoyed a good level of autonomy as a result. A trend which he has no intentions of breaking.

Emotional Bond: ¯\_(ツ)_/¯

Partner: Yulia Zykova

Combat Information

Fighting Style: The NBR is famous for its light cavalry, and the Royal Dragoons exemplify this. As their leader, Alexei fights as they do, often using his maneuverability to disable his opponent, before moving in for the kill once weakened. Generations of fighting against raiders has generally removed any notion of there being honor in combat in the north, and any opening that presents itself will be exploited by Alexei. Whether this means a well timed pistol shot during a melee bout, or throwing a handful of gunpowder in the opponent's face to create an opening. While mounted none of these tricks are needed for him to beat most opponents, but on foot it helps to level the playing field against those more skilled than him.

Equipment: 2x flintlock pistols
A 32 inch cavalry sabre, in the style used by the NBR, and with a blue&gilt blade.
A thick overcoat commonly worn in the north, provides good protection against bladed weapons but is horrifically warm in most seasons.
Tundra, his grey gelding.
Gwaecledd, the blunt celestial sword.

Weaknesses: He can be quick to anger and slow to forgive, particularly if he feels an insult to his family name/title. Also, his extreme sense of duty can prevent him from getting close to people of a lower social class. Not because he thinks less of them, but because the association might cause others to think less of him, and more importantly harm the prestige of his family.

Celestial Gear Information

Name: Gwaecledd

Type: Sword

Appearance:

Function: Life's Blood - Prevents the wounds of the user the bleeding, but does not actually heal any injuries or regenerate lost body parts.

Miscellaneous Information

Likes: Above all his family, the satisfaction of protecting his realm, fencing, riding
Dislikes: Recalcitrant behavior, warm weather, parties
Hobbies: Riding, literature, fencing, hunting.
Character Theme: La Madruga (Theme of the NBR)
Other: Current living family includes Anna (Mother, 50), Sergei (Brother, 20), Boris (Brother, 16), and Nikolay (Brother, 11)
Alexei shoots left handed when wielding a pistol.

Celestial Bonds

Well, I mentioned that I've already been working on something. Needed info can probably be covered by PM because stuff that was left out has a 99% chance of having been left out intentionally.

Alexei

Alexei Ilyin-Melikov

Personal Information

Full Name: Alexei Ilyin-Melikov (Margrave Alexei III, Lord Protector of the North Basilevsa Republic)

Gender: Male

Age: 23

Appearance: Alexei isn't what one would call intimidating at first glance. Only a little above average in height and almost lithe in build, only the numerous scars adorning his body indicate that the nobleman had ever been anywhere near a battlefield. Following the latest fashions of his country, Alexei's hair is currently cut short- far shorter than most nobles in the south would tolerate- and the beginnings of a beard can be seen on his face. While he wear no typical outfit from day to do, red is usually incorporated in some form, the primary color of his house, and all of his clothing is clearly of expensive make. A clear indicator of his status, if his self confidence and ease of giving orders weren't enough.

Height: 5'11"

Weight: 148 lb

Background Information

History: Firstborn of four sons to Margrave Gigoriy IV, it was always Alexei's place to inherit his father's title, though the power that came with it had faded generations ago. The North Basilevsa Republic (South Basilevsa having been absorbed long before) had been governed by a parliament for almost a century, and their lord reduced to more of a figurehead than a ruler. Still, the family was expected to represent the NBR within the Grenheim Empire, and in times of war lead its armies of their Lord Protector.

That did not mean, however, that life was any easier for Margraves. With less time spent on governance, it had become a tradition to patrol the border with the Royal Dragoons and root out any raiders that might have slipped past the vast northern border intending to loot the countryside. Whether on a diplomatic mission, attending parliament (For the Margrave too carried a vote) or traveling on a diplomatic mission, the Lord Protector of the Republic was always on the move.

Alexei himself would prove to be no exception. Though his childhood was unremarkable, he began riding out with his father and the Royal Dragoons at the age of fourteen. At the age of eighteen he rode back with his father's corpse, and assumed the mantle of Margrave. Since then he has spent most of his time patrolling the border with his men, and keeping in eye on the south for trouble within the Empire. Having little time to make any close friends outside of the mean he leads and his family.

Brief Personality: Amongst his family or men Alexei could be considered almost normal. Always mindful of his station, but free to joke and have fun. Though remaining mindful about the status difference between himself and commoners. Even while relaxed he isn't one to let someone rise too far above their station. Still, this is the least that can be expected from one of the nobility. This of course does not apply to his family members, the only people which he can act unrestrained around and comfortable that nothing he does will degrade the status of both him and the title he carries.

While in public however he is duty-bound and gravely serious. Trading pleasantries but not indulging in small talk if it can be avoided, and trying to get down to business as quickly as possible. There is a sense of self assurance and power that radiates from him as someone who knows and takes pride in their position, though this does not prevent him from bowing to the few people in the Empire who are above his station. The NBR has always bowed its head willingly to the Empire, and enjoyed a good level of autonomy as a result. A trend which he has no intentions of breaking.

Emotional Bond: ¯\_(ツ)_/¯

Partner: Yulia Zykova

Combat Information

Fighting Style: The NBR is famous for its light cavalry, and the Royal Dragoons exemplify this. As their leader, Alexei fights as they do, often using his maneuverability to disable his opponent, before moving in for the kill once weakened. Generations of fighting against raiders has generally removed any notion of there being honor in combat in the north, and any opening that presents itself will be exploited by Alexei. Whether this means a well timed pistol shot during a melee bout, or throwing a handful of gunpowder in the opponent's face to create an opening. While mounted none of these tricks are needed for him to beat most opponents, but on foot it helps to level the playing field against those more skilled than him.

Equipment: 2x flintlock pistols
A 32 inch cavalry sabre, in the style used by the NBR, and with a blue&gilt blade.
A thick overcoat commonly worn in the north, provides good protection against bladed weapons but is horrifically warm in most seasons.
Tundra, his grey mare.
Gwaecledd, the blunt celestial sword.

Weaknesses: He can be quick to anger and slow to forgive, particularly if he feels an insult to his family name/title. Also, his extreme sense of duty can prevent him from getting close to people of a lower social class. Not because he thinks less of them, but because the association might cause others to think less of him, and more importantly harm the prestige of his family.

Celestial Gear Information

Name: Gwaecledd

Type: Sword

Appearance:

Function: Life's Blood - Prevents the wounds of the user the bleeding, but does not actually heal any injuries or regenerate lost body parts.

Miscellaneous Information

Likes: Above all his family, the satisfaction of protecting his realm, fencing, riding
Dislikes: Recalcitrant behavior, warm weather, parties
Hobbies: Riding, literature, fencing, hunting.
Character Theme: La Madruga (Theme of the NBR)
Other: Current living family includes Anna (Mother, 50), Sergei (Brother, 20), Boris (Brother, 16), and Nikolay (Brother, 11)

• 葉隱 •

Uragiri Riso

Clothing:


Name

Uragiri Riso

裏切り Betrayal
(by)
理想 Ideal

Age

24

Totem

Phoenix

Appearance

Larger than average, although by no means a giant, it's apparent at first glance that Riso either had a healthy upbringing, or was blessed with a strong physique. His mannerisms, dress, and sword all point towards the former. While not what one might call self-assured or confident, he walks with a well practiced presence, broad shouldered and head held high. Though there are signs of stress and early aging beginning to wear on his face, it is clear he is both young and takes care of his appearance.

While his voice clearly marks him as a southerner, at first glance one could easily mistake him as hailing from the north. With bright yellows, blues, and reds intermixing throughout his otherwise indistinguishable Ronin garb. They are clearly well made, and of a style that would be far more in place in a large city than out in the boondocks. At his side rests both a bokken and katana, and the calluses on his hands mark him as one who can use them.

Personality

Riso is a thoughtful, quiet, one. One prone to thinking before acting (in most situations) and intent on puzzling out the world around him. At the same time, he constantly seems to hold himself back from these urges, and it would be a rare individual who had spoken the phrase 'Curiosity killed the cat' more often than him. Still, there is a clear intelligence behind his eyes, and he's frequently able to contribute to conversations about warfare, economics, and science. Though the last seems to be a topic he prefers to avoid if possible.

There is also a certain arrogance about him in the way he speaks and carries himself. Not the kind found in a person who believes they're better than you, but the kind found in a person who is. This, combined with his other traits, almost certainly point to him being some spoiled child of a person with wealth, and his apparent ronin status does little to justify his attitude.

Strengths

Trained Swordsman – While clearly not a master who has dedicated his life to the sword, he is competent above most men in its use. Riso has clearly been taking lessons for most of his life, even if his full attention was elsewhere.

Master Marksman – While not a weapon he carries around with him, with a tanegashima in his hands Riso could likely outshoot any man- or woman- on the continent. Considering his unwillingness- or inability- to wield this weapon though, it is a token strength at best.

Knowledge of... – Riso is clearly professionally educated, and while he knows nowhere near everything, there is a shocking amount of information in his brain. Particularly in regards to politics, economics, science, and warefare.

Upper Class – When dealing with people of status Riso has many advantages over someone of lower birth, being one of their own. A fact that would greatly aid any dealings with such individuals.

Weaknesses

Upper Class – Riso's upbringing gives him a certain casual arrogance that often infuriates those who have enjoyed less fortune in their status than him. Many an encounter on the road has come to violence for him entirely by accident due to this alone.

Fiery Rage – While not quick to anger under any normal circumstances – and indeed Riso is more level headed than most- he can be set off in an instant once one knows what buttons of his to press. The most common seem to be in relation to his upbringing, though why is anybody's guess.

Self Imposed Luddite – Despite seeming to have great knowledge of foreign technology and its use, Riso seems to shun it in its entirity, often warning people against its danger. He has even claimed that he uses his bokken because it is a more simple tool than his sword. There are many on the continent who hold similar sentiments, although his seem to be of a more extreme flavor than most.

Theme
An optional song.

• 葉隱 •

Hmm, we've had a snake join, should probably work on an entirely new character then for this one.

Definitely leaning towards joining again though.

• 葉隱 •

Hah, I haven't settled in joining yet, but I'll try to make that decision during my next weekend (This upcoming Sunday/Monday night) I'll let you know even if the decision is to pass this time.

—(••[ 𝕎𝕀𝕊ℍ𝔼𝔸𝕋𝔼ℝ ]••)—

Oh, Lawrence ended up with an upgrade by the way. Can now fully control limbs of others (Fine control requiring effort, also larger sizes mean more effort as well) with the same time limit and range as his previous upgrade (1 minute, 30 meters).

—(••[ 𝕎𝕀𝕊ℍ𝔼𝔸𝕋𝔼ℝ ]••)—

---

---

Lawrence, Lizzy, and Rosa

A familiar face?

---

---

What am I even still doing here?

It wasn't exactly a question that needed an answer. Lawrence was here because he had to be, it was no more of a mystery than that. He had always expected to become a staff mage, but it was looking more and more like that option had been eliminated from his future. USARILN was determined to keep him with this team, in spite of both his lack of ability and their lack of desire to have him around.

It was the latter though that seemed to gnaw on him the most.

Sprawled out on his bed with Lizzy laying over top of him- the dog had seemed far more attached to him since arriving on the island, and he welcomed the company- Lawrence slowly traced a circle around his chest where the hole that almost killed him once was. Ironically it was one of his only injuries over the past year that hadn't left a scar- with more minor ones having been treated the old fashioned way. Something about that felt like it cheapened the experience somehow, but he wasn't exactly liable to forget about it without a visual reminder.

In truth though, dying only somewhat bothered him (In fact, feeling that ocean of power trickle into him once more during the experience bothered him far more). It was something he was resigned to with every mission, even if he would prevent it as much as he possibly could. However, it had made abundantly clear how much of an outsider he was in this team. How many of them had visited him as he recovered? It seemed that nobody had bothered to approach him for advice or even a chat since his injury had healed. All the while they continued to meet up with each other and tried to forge bonds outside of their missions without him.

Was he really the least desirable person here?

It had been eating at him more and more over the past week or so. If the others were all getting together in their spare time, then it meant the problem rested with him. Sure, when it was his own class the distance between them had been bearable, there had been Elizabeth to wash away any loneliness. After her death, the time alone had become a comfort to deal with his grief. However now...

Now his grieving had mostly passed, and Elizabeth was still gone. All that remained was the loneliness.

Solid stoicism, neutrality, and a distance from others had pushed everyone away too far, and now even if the others didn't need Lawrence, he had need of them. He hadn't died, and now his life needed to be filled with something. Otherwise he might end it himself eventually. So here he was in his room, trying to at least partially break down that mental wall he had set up, and for the most part failing. Each time cracks began to show, an uncomfortable flood of stress threatened to break through, and he closed them up once more. He needed something to replace that coping mechanism, and while others may have thought he'd caught a cold lately the lingering scent of cigarette smoke betrayed a different cause for his coughing fits.

It hadn't been working out so far, and he was almost committed to ending the idea and trying to move on as he always had.

Idly he glanced at his phone, one of his most neglected possessions. After all, who had tried to call him over this past month? Still, he noticed a small icon in the upper corner of the screen that he was unfamiliar with. And upon further inspection saw;

Unread Texts: 45

Missed Calls: 7

Huh.

And as if on cue it began to buzz for an incoming call before he could even check any of his backlog. Quickly he pressed answer and put it to his ear.

“Lawrence.”

"Finally!" Rosa's exasperated voice on the other end of the line was loud--even louder than the woman's usually chipper, exuberant volume. "I've been trying to reach you privately ever since Wisford! This isn't talk for the cuffs and I know you weren't unconscious the entire time--do you have any idea what's been happening with that group?"

At the mention of Wisford Lawrence grimaced on the other end of the line and paused, looking to Lizzy as if she could somehow help him during this conversation. As if sensing his motives, she turned her face away with a huff and pretended to fall asleep on top of him.

With a sigh, he finally responded;

“Vaguely. Is that what you're calling me for? A status update?”

"Yeah, a bit! You're supposed to be watching out for them--or at least not letting them kill over sixty civilians in a fit of panic! I realize ever since Elizabeth you've been less than involved with anyone and anything, but at least pretend you have powers, Lawrence!"

“I've offered them my help Rosa, none of them have decided that it's needed and I sure as hell can't force them to accept it. If you're asking me to use my power to manipulate their free will-”

He was beginning to grow angry at the conversation in very short order, raising his volume to match hers.

“- I didn't sign up to be your mind rapist Rosa, you or Zhang! You want to force them to stop then use the goddamn anklets you fastened to everybody!”

Lizzy lifted one ear slightly at the outburst but otherwise continued with her charade. More quietly Lawrence continued;

“If you think I want to let people die Rosa you're more wrong than you've ever been- but I'm not going to force this team to do anything, they need to...”

What exactly? He trailed off, uncertain. It was the same problem he'd been working at since his injury without an answer.

"They are waaay too inexperienced for some of these situations and you know it! Helping someone calm down either with words or with your power would have done wonders, but if you want to call every instance of helping potential rape I guess that's that, huh? Wisford was one thing, but DC was entirely unprecedented and that's where they needed you most, even if they didn't ask for it! These are excuses, Lawrence. You know why you're on this team!"

Don't act like I'm shirking some kind of responsibility. You forced me away from my class and shoved me with these guys expecting me to babysit them- so pardon fucking me if I haven't stepped into the role.”

With that he ended the call in irritation and tossed the phone across the room- noting with annoyance that it didn't break. Still, if he was trying to seal up any cracks they were thoroughly leaking now. Grabbing the half empty pack of cigarettes on his nightstand, he soon descended into another fit of coughing as the foreign smoke entered his lungs. Supposedly they helped people with stress, but he was having a hard time seeing how.

In the corner his phone buzzed once more, and Lizzy lifted her head to look at it. Turning her gaze from the device to Lawrence and back again, clearly judging. He was tempted to answer it once more, but was far more tempted to avoid it.

“Get off.”

He growled at the dog, and stood up as soon as she'd hopped off of him and the bed. No, instead of answering the phone he'd go for a walk. His lungs needed some fresh air in them after his attempts to pick up a new habit, and his stomach needed some coffee in it.

Air and coffee.

Especially coffee.

Knights of Evil (High Casual Fantasy Villain Group.)

Ladies and gentlemen: Our GM.

Knights of Evil (High Casual Fantasy Villain Group.)

Las and I are in a collab at the moment, so do the math on whether we're here or not yourself.