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Post by Veinexes on Apr 23, 2018 5:14:53 GMT
The sun rose over the eastern horizon to shine down on the small township of Forse. The normally quiet town was an explosion of festivities. Music playing in the streets, vendors opening stalls. The scene resembled something of a County Fair, that assumption was not that far off. Today was the day of The Contest, the most important affair in all the Kingdoms, where the representatives from each house would arrive and be granted their proper titles as representatives. When the mayor heard that his town had been chosen to host such an event he went slightly mad in the rush for preparations, pulling out all the stops he could to make the event a success.
Stone Stage
And though the town was full of many different attractions and distractions, all eyes and bodies found themselves funneled towards the town center. A large stone stage was set for the event, stairs ascending each side as the banners of each kingdom flew behind it. At the center of the stage stood a tall and wizened looking man. His body concealed in a long darkened brown robe, marked with several strange symbols and markings. In one hand he held a gnarled staff that seemed to hum with energy, a crystal at the top sparking on the inside with small bolts of lightning. This man was The Grand Sage Yggdrasil, perhaps the only man in the kingdoms that was respected by all the royalty of the continent.
As the crowd gathered to await those who were chosen, many excited whispers buzzed among those eager to glimpse this contests first arrivals.
"I think Borksin has it this year," remarked a older man who was regarded with a sharp reply from his seat mate. "Don't say that! I dread what we'd have to endure if one of those maniacs got the throne!"
"Havvstim has a pretty big hold on it though, maybe the champion will just give up to them?" Remarked a youth as he was corrected by an older woman, "Can't do that boy, against the rules and they have Magiks to detect that sorta thing."
"Well whoever wins I hope they're at least good looking, that old gargoyle of Havesstim's needs to move on." absentmindedly remarked another man who drew a glare from his wife sat next to him.
Various other conversations continued until the loud "BANG!" ushered silence from the stage, a Thunderbolt had ripped forth from Yggdrasil's Stave to bring silence to the proceedings as the first of the prospective champions arrived.
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Post by Infynis on Apr 23, 2018 6:50:22 GMT
"Alright, princess, it's time," the Aurian priestess said. The two stood out of sight of the crowd, where Erinna had been preparing her charge. Despite the fact that she wouldn't be the one up on stage, she was still nervous. She obsessively plucked at princess Aluche's gorgeous clothing, making sure it was perfectly neat and presentable. "Make sure to stand up straight, and smile. Don't fidget." She finally realised she couldn't make the princess' clothes any more pristine, and stood back, looking her over.
Aluche looked exactly as Erinna thought a princess should. Her clothes weren't as ornate as they could have been - allowances had been made for the sake of traveling convenience - but she still looked perfect. Erinna's own robes were much less flattering. The garb of a priestess, though intricate, focused on a loose, flowing look. They did share the elongated sleeves though. The princess' presentability did nothing to quiet Erinna's pounding heart. She probably wouldn't be able to calm down until the representatives had all been presented and this was over. "May you go with God's grace, my lady," the priestess wished.
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Post by Vazad on Apr 23, 2018 10:06:12 GMT
Babs had been to a few of the middle sized towns but she had never seen anything like this, the town was packed. The country fairs she had been to had nothing on this. She looked at the people milling around her, trying to see what they were doing. From what she could tell they were mostly moving toward the center of town. She edged her Mudbray Boggy in that direction, letting the crowd direct them where they needed to be, pushing people aside as Boggy made room for them to move through. The smells of a variety of cooked foods assaulted her senses, she had thought city people mostly ate poorly but this was far beyond her wildest dreams. She let the aroma carry her for a while, totally ignoring the occasional cry of protest from a rudely shove pedestrian. Smoking her pipe as she enjoyed the sunlight and the scent of the food.
Suddenly Boggy stopped. Glaring at the back of the Mudbrays neck Babs gave him a kick to get moving again, instead of following her command the impertinent filly turned her head around and gave Babs a happy hee-haw. When Boggy turned her head back around Babs looked out and saw they were at the top of a flight of stone stairs, on both sides were stone seats crowded with people who were chatting away. Absently Babs wondered what was wrong with using a good hillside, you didn't have to drag all these dang stones over and you could feel the grass under your feet. Shaking her head the more carefully directed Boggy down the stairs. At first, everything was fine, Boggy took the steps carefully and was making good headway. About two-thirds of the way down through some idjit made a fool loud noise and Boggy bolted. Instead of carefully making her way down the stairs she took them in great leaps. Babs held on for dear life, her gear clattering in her bag behind her. At the bottom, Boggy leaped a stone circle some dang fool had set up and came to a skidding halt not a foot in front of an old man in a dress. Looking him up and down she said.
"This here's the place for contestants isnit? I'm raring to get a move on."
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Post by drallore on Apr 23, 2018 10:32:31 GMT
Azazel took in the sights and splendor of the festival with an appropriate amount of boyish glee. Til now, his exposure to the world outside of Braxius was limited to rebellious ventures out into the dreaded groves that tended to inspire stories of lost children and gingerbread houses, or at least the version where the evil witch wins in the end and turns the children into a light brunch. For the record, children are paired best with a nice Pinot noir. But here he was, exploring his first exposure to grand colors, light, and food with an ABSURD amount of sugar in it! He ventured the fair grounds with his companion zorua, whom he had take the form of azazel’s twin. Just because they were new to the area didn’t mean they couldn’t lay out a prank or two on their way to the fairgrounds.
After a fair bit if cheeky stunts; sneaking pudding into an old man’s pocket, carrying a sleeping child to the top of a building and leaving him there, and switching every canister of sugar with salt, he eventually made his way to the contestants area of the main fairgrounds. Still skeptical about the caliber of character he could expect from the other kingdoms, the trickster prince sent in his giggly zorua twin in his stead while azazel observed from the shadows to see how people would take to the boy.
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Post by ventix on Apr 23, 2018 16:01:21 GMT
Aluche stood still as Erinna plucked at her clothing. Ugh...Can't this broad pick up the frickin' pace?! One or two specks of dust ain't gonna matter! Now, now, Malvasia, she's just doing her job. And what have I told you about using that kind of language? It's quite crass. Ya want crass? Ah'll give ya crass, ya uppity fu-MALVASIA! Ugh, fine. Ya're such a frickin' stick-in-the mud, ya know that? Ya've become such a prude since ya stopped seein' Jioni. W-What are you bringing up him for?! See what Ah mean? Just the mention of his name n' ya start blushin' What are you talking about?! I'm not blushing! Ya sure? 'Cause Ah'm pretty sure our cheeks are a bit red right now. S-Shut up! Shut up! Shut up!
Throughout the entire exchange, the gentle smile Aluche held on her face didn't change, except for the slight reddening of her cheeks when Jioni was brought up.
Aluche n' Jioni, sittin' in a tree~ K-I-S-S-I- Malvasia's teasing of Aluche was interrupted by Erinna's send off. Frickin' finally. Let's just go up to the stage...
Aluche gave a small bow to her attendant. "Thank you, Miss Erinna. I will make sure to properly represent Aurian in this competition." Oh good grief. Ah think Ah'm gonna be sick. Quiet you. Aluche stood back up straight and stepped up to the stage.
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Post by Star / Kamille on Apr 23, 2018 16:16:51 GMT
Star and Jioni hadn't had far to travel to the festival so unlike many, rather then worn out Star was just pleased as she had walked as far to visit farms before. Her white robes flowing and glittering with golden etchings on the side, her long hair flowing freely in the breeze as she walked besides the younger man beside her and took in the festival. It was with a bit of melancholy she realized she was traveling with Jioni and not Sioda and Saasita, though she loved Jioni dearly it felt weird to be without her friends. Like a pair of limbs were missing. Star let out a little huff and a warm smile at Jioni before veering to a merchant to playfully haggle over a pair of sweet fruit tarts.
Returning to her not-son's side she handed him a tart with a smile as they continued walking through the crowds, taking a bite as she considered. "I'd suggest you make a good first impression dear, but we both know Sioda probably taught you more about that then I ever could. Just remember win or lose you'll always be our champion, and Hoshi is more interested in stories and trinkets then anything else. Also, I do believe I'm required to tell you not to get anyone pregnant without meaning to." Star tilted her head taking a bite of her tart as they wandered the crowd, slowly heading to the stage while people milled all about them. "Albeit that's a little hypocritical, I had Hoshi younger then you are now. So just be smart about it alright? And try not to woo too many boys and girls."
Star stifled a giggle making sure not to look at Jioni's face, he may have been a little flirt but he was still effectively her child and no child wanted to hear about that. She took the time to look around at the many adults around her age that had come to the festival. Some of the women seemed quite pretty and a few handsome of the men handsome in the same rugged way Saasita was, but she had to admit a general lack of interest in anything romanctic for the moment. Instead she wanted to make sure Jioni got up on stage early rather then rushing in late and so once he was ready she made sure they found a good path onto the stage.
Where as Jioni would take the spotlight, after Star had checked him over to make sure he was presentable, Star was happy to move off stage as Jioni took his spot. Albeit the older woman noticed the nervous princess Aluche already up on the stage, she flashed the young woman a smile and wave with a mouthed 'good luck princess' before moving to stand closer to Erinna with a polite nod. She had never gotten to know the much younger priestess but one learned to recognize the signs and Star was nothing if not polite.
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Post by shotte on Apr 23, 2018 20:03:05 GMT
The small carriage tugging along some small bits of cargo came to a slow halt on the corner of one of the less busy streets. "Here should be a straight shot to the stage mah boy" said the older traveler as he pointed out from the his seat holding the reins oh his Ponyta."Thanks a ton mate. Here for your troubles and good company" Bael had gleefully thanked the man flipping a silver coin towards the man. With a loose salute Bael headed further into the crowd as the man and his cargo drove away. "Hmm..a straight shot to the stage, huh?" As he walked through the crowd he thought to himself if bringing out his Pokemon would be a good call. "No..Nimue would just try to sneak off and cause a bit of trouble. Logu maybe? Span?...Nah, best not to let them out. Probably not allowed on stage anyhow" Bael argued with himself quietly as he walked past the patrons and visitors of the town.
Having read up a little on the small town before getting here Bael had an idea where he was in case he had gotten sidetracked and needed to find the quickest way to the stage. After all he had the time to study the city in any books or maps he could find on the way here through his extensive trek from the far west. Hmm..I'm probably the last one here...might as well head straight to the stage just in case.Through his mind he would do the math if any extra time was left for him to sight see before heading to the ceremony.
He stayed his course and eventually found his way at the top of the far left side of the amphitheater. He looked around to see a sea of faces all gazing at the stage at the bottom center. He sighed as he looked down to find that he was actually quite early seeing only three of the sixteen representatives present with the old master Yggdrasil ahead of them all. Damn..could've gotten some food or something at least.. He waved his had in dismissal to his would've, could've, should'ves and proceeded to walk down the stairs towards the stage. He slowly stepped upon the platform hesitantly worrying if there was supposed to an order, or any pomp and circumstance to be had of his arrival. Nonetheless he walked up along the stage as the crowd silenced themselves for a brief moment only to begin whispering most likely about him. "I am Bael Rister of Excsi. I am proud to represent my kingdom in this year's Contest." A slight tremble struck his voice as he announced himself to the crowd. An intense amount of air escaped his nostrils in relief. Why is this old lady here? And a princess and a kid? Odd choices if you ask me he thought to himself as he silently judged the other participants.
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Post by darkoda on Apr 24, 2018 1:54:30 GMT
The trek to the town of Forse didn’t take quite as long as she thought that it would. She would fully admit that when her sudden benefactors told her that she should make the trek by herself instead of getting a lift – especially when she knew full well that they didn’t tell that to the other rep – she was quite suspicious that this was some sort of ploy to mess with the peasant one last time before she was officially a representative, but getting that much time to practice her last minute lessons made a world of difference. She felt….she felt confident! She could fly now! Or at least hover a bit! It was awesome!
Even if she had a bit of an accident by the lake involving a prankster of a ghost and some bad floating advice….but she saved her bag and it gave her the excuse to carry around her fuzzy heater. It was definitely just to use her heat to speed up the drying of her clothes and not because she was nervous or anything! She was just here, by herself, with a bunch of potential Champions who had probably been preparing for years andthiswasabadidea
Something sweet and delicious found its way into her mouth via a well aimed strand of string and the sugar did help. The extra pulse of warmth from her snuggle bug helped a lot more. “Yeah, you’re right! I can, we can do this. No matter how much that snooty jerk scoffed.” Her confidence restored a bit, Berry charged off to where she was told everyone was meeting up!
…..Then she came back after a few steps to go pay the stall owner that she got that snack from. He did take it in stride at least, it looked like she livened up his day a bit so she’d consider that a win.
She made her way through the town, talking to the stall owners and overall getting information about the area, the good tourist spots and confirming that yes, the large round walls she could see were where she needed to go. She suspected that the lady she asked for directions thought that she wanted to spectate but, well everyone would know soon enough. Eventually she made it to the theatre with a few extra snack foods, a happily nibbling silkworm and given how some of those snacks just vanished, she suspected that her prankster ghost was floating about outside of her bag.
It was as good a reason as any for the sudden wind ruffling past her as she walked in, the silence deafening. What was everyone thinking? Were they surprised? Disbelieving? Her friends did say that they would try to make it here for the official announcement but she knew that running the orchards and gardens needed people keeping an eye on things and with her gone on this, they were down one person.Well, if – when I win, we can have a big party then!
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Post by Kadeem on Apr 24, 2018 9:44:04 GMT
There was an energy to Jioni that he'd never felt before. Sure he'd been excited many times in his life, and he definitely went through his life with a heavy amount of self-confidence...but there was something different to the way he carried himself that day; any who knew him well enough would've picked up on it. There was even a bit of a sway to his walk as strode next to his beloved aunt. She in particular was well aware of his change in demeanor, not least because there was a physical aspect to it: the young man had been Transformed from the instant they arrived in Forse.
His dark skin was in stark contrast to the ethereal nature his appearance had taken. What were once normal shades of red hair and gray eyes were instead glowing crimson and sterling silver. He'd untied his hair from the ponytail he usually kept it in, letting the long, braided locks hang and dance to the rhythm of his movement and the magic he was freely displaying. One would think the pink sparkles of energy that trailed about him would take away from the armour he wore, and yet somehow they didn't. He'd elected to remove his helmet, storing it in his pack, but from neck to foot he was garbed in black plate armour. Strangely enough, his hands weren't covered. Or rather, one of them wasn't. On his left hand was a gauntlet made of...well, that was the thing. Looking at it you couldn't tell exactly what it was made of. It was definitely a metal of some sort, but the deep, dark, almost-black rosewood coloured metal seemed to reflect light in an unnatural manner. To any familiar with them, it was obvious it was a magical item. The only other two items of note on his person were the ring that hung from a leather cord around his neck and the sleeping Honedge sheathed and laying across the back of his armour. The ring displayed the crest his father had set as their family symbol: a wolf's head beneath a crescent moon crossed by a sword.
He laughed at his aunt's antics as she stopped and returned with two treats, one for each of them. He took a bite and was delighted to taste the blueberries baked within; this is why he called Star his other-mother, she always remembered the little things like his favourite tart flavours.
Jioni couldn't help but grin at her words.
"First impressions are my thing Aunt Star, you know I got this. You're right though, mother would be so disappointed if all those years around her taught me nothing."
He raised his eyebrow at her as she continued.
"Lose? You know I didn't come here to lose. Who's gonna beat us as a team? I'm the Son of the Wolf, they're going to have kill me for me to stay down. Hoshi will hear stories about me as word travels back home...although I suppose I could write her letters everytime I send a gift home."
He smirked and laughed at her obligatory mom message, affecting a mock-noble tone of voice.
"Whatever do you mean my dear other mother? For what reason would I ever act in a manner befitting a gentleman of my station? I will always make a point of treating all ladies of the land with the level of decorum I was raised to extend to all maidens."
Now that she'd said something though, he did start taking note of the girls they passed as the moved through the crowd. They were all so different...he wondered what, if any, the female representatives would be like. As he ascended the stage to stand beneath the banner of Aurian, he took note of all those on stage.
There Grand Sage himself, the man known as Yggdrasil who had silenced the crowd with a booming Thunderbolt that had caused even him to stop talking. The man was a legend and an imposing figure.
Speaking to him currently was an older woman, who immediately drew Jioni's attention. A woman of her age participating in the Contest? She was likely to be one of his biggest threats with her years of experience. She was most likely a terror on the battlefield with the level of confidence she'd have to have by coming here.
There was a boy not many years younger than him there, but he didn't really seem of note besides standing beneath the Braxius banner. He wondered if the boy knew any of his extended family.
There was a girl not too from him also under the Aurian banner that looked to be about his age. She was very pretty, and very well put together. Her clothes looked expensive, like the Braxius boy. Both of them were probably nobles, maybe even royalty. He rolled his eyes, he hoped they didn't act like how his mother made them sound. He'd met a very small few and he didn't have enough time with them to really get a feel for them. Well, some. There were others he could tell were right arses the instant he met them.
There was an older man there, he seemed like someone who'd be fun to fight. Jioni watched him announce himself, deciding he'd follow his lead when he was done.
...and then he saw the next girl show up.
"Cresselia she's gorgeous."
He hadn't meant for the words to slip out, and he hoped no one had heard him but...he'd never seen anyone like her before. He really didn't want to have to fight her.
Well, that was that then. Without further ado he strode forward and announced himself as the Excsian did. He called out in a booming voice, using his fey magic to amplify himself just enough without actually weaponizing it.
"I am Jioni of House Nafasi of Aurian, from the township of River's Maw, son of The Wolf Saasita Nafasi and of Síoda of House Sithíche. Should I be successful, I aim to be your next Champion. With me is a woman I am proud to call my other mother, Priestess Star of House Luminous!"
He bowed respectfully, stepping back beneath the banner of his Kingdom as he waited for the rest of the participants to arrive.
Charm Check : P|gwJI6F3d6 3d6
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Post by eltrou on Apr 24, 2018 10:20:03 GMT
It had been a long journey to this small town of Forse from the capital city of Kells all the way back in Liend. He had travelled along with his fellow Liend representative and household guard of House Finea along the way, passing through the borders of Broksin and making their way along the same borders. Few words were exchanged between them as Raoul's reputation for aloofness even among his house was well-known - barely more than pleasantries and general outlines of plans, really.
Aside from a few incidents here and there while at camp, the travel to this small town for the Contest was uneventful and as quick as a caravan could have done. They had managed to arrive a few days before the event itself, allowing himself and the other representative to settle in along with household guard of his house, even though that Raoul was rather well aware that he could not use the full backing of his house to participate. It was not their way and it was not his own to demonstrate such overt shows of force. Besides, the throne and its contestants were not all that Raoul was here for - he was also here to observe and survey the lands and their people, for the smallfolk and the minor lords said as much about the state of a land as much as the court did.
The beginning came soon enough afterwards. Raoul himself had come in, quiet and unnoticed as a shadow on the walls as he observed the gathering crowd and contestants along with the commanding presence of the Grand Sage Yggdrasil. He quietly took note of their entrances and words, his eerie silver eyes lingering on the known figures who participated like the crown princess Alude Triaria as well as the curious ones like that old woman on a Mudbray -a confident commoner from her manner and dress- and that boy who introduced himself in booming tones with the reeked of the fey if those sparks that shone from him were any indication.
Once everyone else had announced or presented themselves onto the stage, Raoul let himself sink into his chair for a few moments, closing his eyes to let himself briefly process everything he had seen. He then opened them as he propped his arm up the armrest, head supported by his palm as he stared at the gathered masses with an impassive expression....
...as he slowly faded into view onto the stage below the banners of the Kingdom of Liend, seated on a simple but elegantly-carved chair of ebony lined with soft red cushions and fabrics. He looked for all the world like an ethereal, otherworldly statue, motionless without a hint of sound coming from him as he watched everyone from his seat.
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Post by drallore on Apr 24, 2018 11:12:57 GMT
While zorua continued to stand in the form of azazel, convincing everyone the Young’s prince was standing quietly under his banner, the real azazel continued to scan and assess the other participants that made their way in. One particular boy caught his attention. An obnoxiously loud boy calling himself Jioni, and whom appeared to be attempting to court a nearby young girl. Adorable really, and a perfect opportunity to make use of the bag of excessively vile monster excrement that azazel brought from braxius. With a bit of a wave of his magic, azazel attempted to slip the bag into jioni’s pocket.
Ac: 5 for trick
P5kTqZrZ1-201-20
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Post by ventix on Apr 25, 2018 0:53:26 GMT
"J-Jioni? Is that really you?" Aluche asked him in a whisper as he stepped under the banner next to her, causing her blush to become a bit deeper. "D-Do you remember me? I know it has been a few years, but I am Aluche Triaria. I used to come over to your house every year around the time of the festival."
Although she didn't let it show aside from the slight reddening of her cheeks, Aluche's mind was in turmoil.
W-W-What do I do, Malvasia?! It's Jioni! Jioni! Jioni's here! What do I do?! First thing ya gotta do is calm the frick down. I am calm! But it's Jioni! Does my hair look okay?! Are my clothes straight?! Do I have anything between my teeth?! Am I blushing?! Oh Arceus, I am blushing aren't I?! For Arceus' sake, girl, I knew ya liked the guy but I didn't think it was this bad! W-W-What are you talking about?! I-I just want to look nice for a reunion with a friend I haven't seen in a long time! I-It's not like I like him or anything!
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Post by Veinexes on Apr 25, 2018 2:08:01 GMT
Once everyone had arrived, Yggdrasil began pacing in front of the participants, speaking as he did so. "Today, you all begin that fateful journey as representatives of your kingdoms. For some of you, the championship will be only a dream; but for one of you, a reality and great honor." He walked back towards a long table, reaching down and retrieving a small crystal ball. "These shall be your guides. With them, you will be able to communicate across far distances to any others with one. It also functions as a resting place for your partners and a catalog of those that you find."
Once again, he approached each of the contestants, handing them their own orb, "Hmmm?" He looked at Azazel as the orb in his hand lit up. Leaning forward, he stared into the boy's eyes, "Tell your Master to pick his own things up next time."
He shook his head before handing the orb over, confident at least it would find the way to its owner.
"Your journey shall not be an easy one, and you may not ever reach the summit. There are many before who have given up not even halfway towards the goal. Know that though you are rivals, it is my hope that through your trials you may acquire a deeper understanding of your nations and of each other. The Champion sits for all, not only his realm. With this let us conclude the ceremony." Another loud clap erupts as a bolt of lightning springs forth from the staff.
(As for the Trick)
The bag slipped neatly into the young warriors back pocket as Azael had planned. What he didn't plan for was the stern cough that came from behind him. While Azael had been focused on his target. Yggdrasil stood near the boy, eyeing him for with the ceremony ended, the sage had no need to focus on the crowd. "I trust you heard everything from where ever you were hiding?" He asked though it was clearly more of a statement. "You are representiing your country now, try not to do anything that would show it in a poor light."
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Post by drallore on Apr 25, 2018 2:23:00 GMT
Azazel was startled when an old man totally appeared right behind him. He cocked his head around slowly, expecting some sort of reprimand for his action. Instead he got a sternly phrased comment that he would totally expect from a nurturing character, something Azazel wasn't used to. He smiled a bit, before . . .
"Can't guarantee that gramps!"
Before he teleported away, sticking his tongue out as he did so. He quickly ran up behind some banners, using ally switch to replace Zorua, who would have known to switch back to his natural phone and return to Azazel with the crest. Azazel snickered.
"Great job buddy! Bet you didn't think j could get away with it did you?"
Azazel kept his gaze on jioni to appreciate the spoils of his success
stealth for trick tDKP6EDv1-61-61-61-61-6 +4 1-6·1-6·1-6·1-6·1-6
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Post by Vazad on Apr 25, 2018 7:27:28 GMT
Babs was surprised, for someone dressed like a bit of a ninny this man was pretty unflappable. He didn't even flinch when she almost ran him over. Not that she had meant to but accidents do happen. Awkwardly she dismounted and returned Boggy to her seal before jogging over to her designated spot. She nodded abesntly as he began speaking. At least he talked sense, it was good to let the others down lightly. Babs scanned the line of other competitors with a look of calm confidence, sure some of them looked tough but she was sure she'd be able to whoop em. When the man started handing out glass balls she eyed them warily, what was that he was saying? Were they some sort of fancy magic whatsit? She wasn't sure she quite trusted it, you never could with magic. Shaking her head she decided that if it was between her winning or losing she'd do her best to learn how to use it. Even if she didn't like it. When the turn of the quiet kid came he said something about masters. What? Wasn't that kid the contestant? If the proper person couldn't be bothered to show up then maybe they didn't deserve their chances. Whatever, she didn't make the rules about these things. After that interruption, the speech continued for a short while and then as suddenly as it had begun. There was another annoying noise and the dandy disappeared. Babs shrugged and looked down at the thingy that had been given to her for a brief moment before stuffing it into her bag. Turning she looked down the line again, looking to see who caught her eye. It might be a good idea to get to know some of these people if they were going to be her competition. Who knows, maybe they could work together? For mutual protection on the like. OjvgYGHI1d6
1. Berry
2. Raoul
3. Jioni
4. Aluche
5. Bael
6. Azazel
-Raoul it is then. The man with the creepy demeanor and cold eyes caught her attention. He seemed like a rock in the middle of a river, everyone else was talking and moving about but he just sat there in his chair. Babs confidently waddled her way over to him, hands on her hips and her pipe letting off a thin stream of smoke. Seeing that he was pretty tall compared to Babs she was almost at eye level with him even with him sitting down. As she approached she looked him up and down, the gear looked military. Wistfully she remembered her brothers, thinking back on the few times she had seen any of them in uniform. Shaking her head she pulled herself back to the present, now wasn't the time for dredging up the past, she had to look to the future. Absently she shifted her pipe from one corner of her mouth to the other, taking a small puff on it as she finally stepped in front of the impassive fellow. "Well Sonny, you seem to be the odd one out here and no mistake. And that's coming from me! Kehehee! See anything interesting?"1d6
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525 posts
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Dec 31, 2023 21:54:10 GMT
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Post by Infynis on Apr 25, 2018 15:22:06 GMT
With the princess ready to go, Erinna joined the crowd to watch the revealing of the other representatives. She chose a seat far enough from the front that it wasn't uncomfortable, but close enough that she could defend Aluche is anything were to happen. Nearby, and older woman in Aurian priestess' robes nodded to her in greeting, to which she responded with the proper politeness, clasping her hands in front of her, and inclining her head as well. She smiled to see a friendly face in the mass of strangers.
As the presentation progressed, Erinna was surprised when the knight that was the other Aurian representative declaring he was accompanied by such a highly ranked noble priestess - presumably the woman who had greeted Erina earlier - and equally surprised that she had never seen her at the Grand Cathederal. She winced to see Princess Aluche break her composure to whisper something to Jioni. You can talk to him after princess... she thought, her stomach feeling like it was doing back flips at the display. The other representatives were all very impressive. She felt her nervousness growing at the concept of Princess Aluche having to fight these people.
After the Sage finished his speech, Erinna made her way through the remaining crowd to High Priestess Luminous, a title her noble birth would grant her, and greeted her over again. "Blessings to you, High Priestess," she said, with another bow, deeper than her first. "I apologise for not recognising you immediately. I am certain I simply have not had the privilege of your presence as such a minor member of the church."
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Post by Star / Kamille on Apr 25, 2018 16:20:15 GMT
Star stood quietly near the front of the crowds, watching as Jioni ascended the steps to join his fellow representatives with a warm and proud gaze. He had grown so wonderfully, and she saw both the social charm of Sioda and the quiet strength of Saasita within him. She watched as he spoke loud and clear, before her pale cheeks flushed a soft pink at his remarks regarding her. Her status as his 'other mother' had long since been solidified, as neither of the children would accept the trio as anything less then their mothers and father despite the frowns such statements got. At this point Star only felt pride and love for the statement, beaming up at him on the stage as he seemed to lose his attention from the crowd and find it in a pair of girls nearby. Oh yes, he certainly took after Sioda.An amused smile followed at Aluche talking to him, the girl had always tried to latch onto Jioni and Hoshi in the most adorable ways when younger. She paid a bit more attention though when Yggdrasil began to speak and discuss the championship and the items given out, worried that Jioni might miss something so she stayed alert as a precaution. Win or lose, she wanted to help him try his best.
Once Yggdrasil's words ended with a clap of thunder, a sound that made Star flinch at its loudness, she began to move forward before Erinna joined her at the front of the crowd. She watched Erinna quietly as she apologized for not recognizing Star and bowed that deep bow that spoke of politics and social status, something she had learned to dislike through long times exposed to Sioda's views. A warm smile on her lips she shook her head quietly to Erinna, motioning for her to stand and hopefully follow her as she walked slowly through the front of the crowd and towards the stage, as well as their champions.
"Now now dear, there's no need for that. I'm not here to represent either the church or the nobility of Aurian, simply to support Jioni on his quest much as you seem to be here for Aluche." The words spoke of familiarity, or at least a lack of respect for the princess by her lack of title and casual demeanor. Soft footsteps clad in sandals brought the priestess slowly towards the stage as she considered the princess again, talking with Jioni so eagerly. A wry smile on her lips as she spoke gently to Erinna, a playful look on her face. "It's nice to see she remembers Jioni so fondly though, she always did seem to gravitate to his side on her visits over the years. I wonder if she still has the Eevee plush I bought her for her seventh birthday. She was such an adorable young lady, but so nervous when she came to stay with us. It might explain why she clung to Jioni and Hoshi so often, I'm sure children her age were easier to deal with." Star glanced over at Erinna, as her wry smile shifted once more into a much warmer smile as she carefully considered the young priestess beside her. "I'm sure she's in good hands though, please treat her kindly on your journey."
Star continued to walk towards the edge of the Platform with a glide of her hips and a warm smile, heading towards Jioni and his current companions. She took her time looking over the competition, and had to admit her eyes stayed slightly longer on the female Knight from Valrus. She had a weakness for adventurers and had long since known that. None the less she was eager to get started and wondered if Jioni had any idea in which route he would wish to travel. Despite her fear and sorrow from leaving her family for this journey, a part of her was eager to go on her own adventure for once.
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525 posts
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Dec 31, 2023 21:54:10 GMT
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Post by Infynis on Apr 25, 2018 19:43:49 GMT
Erinna almost gasped at the familiarity with which the senior priestess referred to the princess, but she managed to maintain her subservient posture. It was not her place to correct one so far above her rank. Her own family might technically be noble, but there was a reason she was little more than a servant. The only difference between her house and a commoner family was that she was a servant to a royal. As Lady Luminous continued to talk, Erinna found herself blushing at the concept of the princess' relationship with Jioni. "Excuse me High Priestess," she said as the woman slowly made her way to the stage. "I must attend to my mistress. She will not want to be kept waiting." It was perhaps a somewhat abrupt farewell, but Erinna was deeply concerned. From what she'd seen in fairy tales, handsome knights and childhood friends were the main weaknesses of princesses, and this Jioni seemed to be both.
Breaking from the relaxed pace Star had set, Erinna rushed up to the stage and presented herself to Aluche, bowing. "Well done, princess. You presented yourself with a poise befitting our kingdom. I am certain your father could have asked no more." She did not mention the princess' lapse in speaking to Jioni. That was not her place. "Shall we retire now? To a meal, or a bath perhaps? Or would you like to make arrangements for a carriage for your journey?" Anything that would get her away from this man.
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Post by shotte on Apr 25, 2018 19:48:35 GMT
Bael held onto the orb perplexed by what exactly it was the Sage had handed him. He only recently was granted with seals from the kingdom as his Pokemon would just be open and free around him. How exactly do I use this...maybe one of these people can show me? A boisterous boom snapped Bael out of his own thoughts as the Sage unleashed a whip of lightening on stage. A young boy cries in the crowd as the lightening strikes the stage, Bael looks over as he finds himself fixated on the young boy's cries. Within his mind plays a scene from that dreaded night the sea claimed his fellow crew mates. The swaying of the ship, the salt of the sea stinging his eyes, the sight of his crew sinking further down as the light of the moon no longer touches them..a cold, bleak, wet, black death.
Reeling back in Bael places the orb into his sack strapped around his shoulder. He looks around to see the older woman walking down the line as if she is observing everyone. Is she curious of us? I wonder what she wants? As she settles on the statuesque of a man sitting down Bael decides to follow suit. The others are probably going to converse as well and he should take advatage of the situation of having everyone there. However, he decides to go up to the somewhat familiar face of Hellia Barnes, the other Excsi representative to introduce himself, rather than introduce himself to the others as they are in mid conversation and he doesn't like to interrupt or be rude. "Good day," he says with a slight bow with him arm across his stomach as and his other at his lower back "pleased to meet you. I hadn't the faintest idea of the other representative from the homelands. I am Baelfire Rister, but most just call me Bael. I was wondering if you would like to take a trip with me to a local tavern for some food? Also I was hoping I could ask of your assistance? You see I have no idea how to operate this orb due to not really having the exposure to these type of things. If you could help me figure that out I'd be happy to pay for your meal." As he questioned he began to turn as if to indicate that he was headed over that way now. Hmm..I'll also need to get a map after I get some food in me to plot out my course of action as well as some other items I may need... he ran through his head along with any other items on his checklist as Hellia began to speak.
He only knew of Hellia through word of mouth and she was said to be quite the fearsome fighter. One would be if they were the daughter of the Admiral and last representative of the Champion Contest. It would be wise for him to pick her brain for any advice or tactics on the field of this matter.
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Post by ventix on Apr 25, 2018 20:02:50 GMT
"A meal and a bath before we set out sound lovely indeed, but first, I would much enjoy a long overdue chat with Ji- Aluche clears her throat to try and cover up her mistake. "With Sir Nafasi and Lady Luminous, who I have not seen in quite some time." Aluche gives Jioni her best smile. "I hope you'll indulge me for a short while, Sir Nafasi? I promise not to delay you for long."
Roll for Charm: 4q1Umuge4d6
Ah just want ya to know that Ah'm proud of ya. Eh? What for? For finally putting that charm of ya's to good use to get yaself a guy. W-W-What are you talking about?! You make it sound like I'm trying to seduce him or something! I-I-I told you I wasn't interested in him like that! Riiight. Whatever ya say. S-Shut up! Shut up! Shut up! Now all we gotta do is work on that stiff way of talkin' of ya's. W-What is the matter with the way I speak? The fact that ya put way too much effort into soundin' all prim n' proper. Ah mean really, "Sir Nafasi" n' "Lady Luminous"? Just call 'em Jioni n' Star and be done with it! But as an Aurian princess, I have to act properly at all- No ya don't! Ya just think ya do! Seriously, crap like this is the reason-
The argument in the inside of Aluche mind goes on for a while after that, but like always, she doesn't let it show on her face.4d6
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