guhamun

[guhamun]

@caemthe said (inbox):

[ jiyan, for cal ] The general had a semi-professional camera in his hands when he turned to look at Calcharo, a small detail he failed to mention when he asked them if they could meet him at a certain sightseeing spot in Central Plains. Perhaps the omission had been unintentional, or perhaps it wasn't. It didn’t really matter. "While checking my camera roll a few days ago, I noticed that we don't have any pictures together. Well, to be more precise, I don’t have any pictures of you. I couldn’t stop thinking about it, so I would like to fix that today if you don’t mind sparing me a few minutes." He offered a gentle smile and a simple explanation before he could be asked for one. But it wasn’t long before he realized that taking a picture of Calcharo wasn’t going to be an easy feat. ‘Can you relax your shoulders a little more?’ ‘You’re frowning, is the light bothering you?’ ‘Would you like to try again in another location?’ Jiyan was trying to be as helpful as possible but, no matter how many tips he gave, his partner looked stiff. So, after a while, he lowered his camera and returned to their side to talk about the past few days, how his pecok flowers were thriving, the bully cats at the Central Plains’ base, all the small things that make him smile. Until he was asked if he wasn’t going to take any more pictures, to which he replied: "Actually, I have been filming you the entire time." And could anyone really blame him for laughing at his partner's reaction? It wasn't often that he got to catch the mercenary leader off guard. But, a moment later, he was leaning closer to silence them with a kiss. "I apologize, I thought that the Ghost Hounds were prepared for anything at any time. But it appears that even the mercenary leader of international fame can be caught off guard by an amateur photographer," he teased. And, when he heard them chuckle close to his ear, he leaned back and finally snapped a picture of them. The result was slightly tilted to the side, but managed to capture a moment he doesn't get to see often. Shoulders relaxed, long eyelashes, a handsome face and a smile that never fails to steal his breath away. Calcharo was simply... "Beautiful."

WHY IN THE WORLD did Jiyan want to meet here of all places? He hadn’t really gone into detail when he had called him, and though Calcharo didn’t really mind that lack of information, he still couldn’t comprehend why they couldn’t at least drop some kind of hint as to the reason. It wasn’t until he had approached and saw the camera that a certain understanding dawned on him. So, that was why. Maybe that information was omitted just in the off chance that Calcharo decided he had something to do and couldn’t make it. Cunning. Arms slowly crossing over his chest, he huffed, glancing off to the side for a moment before shifting his gaze to meet with theirs. ❝…I guess you can take a few.❞ Not that the mercenary leader was particularly photogenic. He didn’t smile in photos. If anything, he just stood there as he did now, looking exactly the same without a hint of change upon his features. Such things always felt rather…awkward…to him. People telling you to look at the camera, to smile wide, to be doing something…

     How pointless.

     As Jiyan attempted to snap the perfect photo, he did his best to ‘relax’ enough to not look unapproachable as he often did, but there was no denying that he felt quite out of place. Nothing quite felt right, and attempting to try and make it ‘feel right’, certainly didn’t help in the slightest. ❝It’s fine,❞ he answered the other’s final question, not wanting to move somewhere else, just to potentially waste both of their times with his stiffness. Eventually, Jiyan lowered his camera, seemingly giving up and deciding to move the topic elsewhere. That was for the best, he thought. Neither was getting anywhere right now, after all. Saying nothing, he listened to him speak – the sound of his voice when he was at ease like this, always so strangely soothing to him. Jiyan could have talked about near anything and Calcharo would have found himself unable to focus on anything else but the words that passed his lips. Little did he know, that during those moments that he had lowered his guard, Jiyan had been quietly catching moments of him at ease. When such was admitted, his brows furrowed with slight confusion.

     When? How?

     Calcharo was a man who constantly paid attention to his surroundings…although…admittedly…he had done less so of that whenever the other man was around. A conundrum he couldn’t figure out months back, but one that he had long since come to understand with the passing of time (and the understanding of feelings). ❝You can be too cunning for your own good.❞ He huffed, his head shaking with faint exasperation as a small chuckle slipped from him. There was much he intended to say, but those words were so easily silenced beneath the kiss he was given. ❝Jiyan, you---❞ He heard that familiar snap, surprise flickering within his gaze as the other leaned away with a rather pleased smile. Clicking his tongue, he reached out, grabbing the front of Jiyan’s hanfu and tugging him closer. ❝Don’t think that you’re getting away unscathed after all that, General. What kind of mercenary leader I would be without taking payment?❞ With a slight smirk, he pressed his lips against his once more, silencing whatever else might be said.  

[guhamun]

@dayscorch said (inbox):

❛❛ KYOJURO ! ❜❜ This ... must be the song of desperation, her voice shuttering the night as body bounds ---- footfalls like thunder, fingers cutting the breeze as she cries aloud his name. Hands extend, all with intention, as her gaze captures the fall of his frame, fingers barely making it in time to catch him. She slides beneath him, body catching body as she grasps him firmly, lashes dappled in tears, palm cradling the back of his head. Suns cast themselves 'pon the flame & relief becomes the weight of her unsteady breath, his eyes are open, he is ... alive. She had been certain, almost certain his end had spilled by the palm of a demon, just as his body had. & yet, here he is, alive & in her arms, those wide eyes looking back into her own. ❛❛ Kyo- ❜❜ Her voice cracks, the tears all but a waterfall as she brings him to the place between her throat & shoulder, body trembling. A sob cracks itself from the depth of throat as she holds onto him, desperate to keep him near, to hear, to feel, to know his life still yet breathes ... and yet, she knows ... such a day looms when she could catch his body as the demon burns & find that there is ... no life left in those veins. She prays such a dawn will never come; for she could no longer imagine a world without him in it. ❛❛ K - Kyojuro ---- you, y - you scared me. ❜❜ She whimpers into his shoulder, unable to speak what she truly wishes too; ' Please, do not leave me. '

SOMETIMES IT WAS HARD to discern the strength of a demon. They could feel strong or weak, but as inexperienced as he was, at times, it was hard to tell just how strong one might be. He should have been more careful – should have watched his enemy a little longer before striking. However, Kyojuro’s fear that they might harm someone during the duration he was gathering information was what made him act preemptively. It was foolish, he knew. At least Koto had been close by. He was quite grateful for that. Thoroughly exhausted from his prolonged battle, he watched as the traces of the demon he had fought all night began to fade away, ash blowing in the wind until there was nothing left. Good. The people would be safe now… Falling backwards, Kyojuro had expected for his back to collide with the ground below, but rather than this happening, he felt the warmth of another as he was caught right before that moment.

     ‘Kyojuro!’

     That voice… Was that Koto? Eyes opening, he turned his head to look up at her face, taking in the tears that trailed down soft cheeks. ❝Asagi…?❞ he spoke softly, confusion present within his tone as if he was trying to make sense of what he was seeing. When had she appeared? Had she always been here? Had she rushed to his aid when she heard of his battle? ❝Do not cry.❞ His lips curled into a small, tired smile, his hand lifting so that it could rest upon the curvature of her jaw. Carefully did he brush away a tear, attempting to do his best to wipe it away with what energy he had left. ❝I will be okay… I just…❞ Was very, very tired. If not for the sun’s rising and the demon not realizing the moon’s departure, he might not have made it. Everything worked out for the best, though. He was here. He was alive. Kyojuro couldn’t die yet before he became a Hashira.

     ❝Let me rest a little…❞

     Just for a minute or two.

[guhamun]

@dayscorch said (inbox):

grandpa dragon your granddaughter is here to squish your snout in a hug !

IGNISHAR LOWERED HIS HEAD down to her height, not much of a change upon his features, though if one paid attention, within that bright, fiery gold, there was amusement there. ❝Asagi,❞ he greeted, allowing her the luxury of being able to touch his glorious self. Scales like that of a sunset with its brilliant orange and yellows gleamed beneath the brightness of the midday sun, his form practically blocking out what light might have fallen upon Koto. A good thing, perhaps, considering the summer heat. Perhaps that served as a form of reprieve for his small guest. ❝I wonder what it is that brings you before me today. Things are going well in your home, I hope?❞ Well enough that she was here, at least. He was well aware of the exhausting politics of mortals.

[guhamun]

@holyscorch said (inbox):

" ... w - what ? they just ... started surrounding me. " yoru tries to defend himself, currently knelt down in front of seemingly a hoard of dogs that came up to him from the streets of the dawn isles. yoru had been feeding some of them treats, only to lead a chain reaction of multiple dogs coming up to him and practically caging him in one spot. / for calcharo mwehehhe

❝DID THEY NOW? YOU have to be careful with those strays. They can lie in wait for their next victim to appear right before striking.❞ There was a deep chuckle that sounded within his throat as he approached, almost easily missed amidst the ‘commotion’. The dogs around Yoru instantly recognized him with a few already making their own approach, tails wagging a mile a minute. He had fed this group before. Not a regular basis, no, but it was enough that they recalled him despite the many faces they would see throughout the day. They were a friendly lot, a clear indication that despite their status as strays, they were fairly well taken care of by the people who lived here. A small part of Calcharo appreciated this fact. ❝They’ll eventually leave you be after they’ve had their fill of attention. So, until then, it seems you’ll be trapped a bit, Yoru.❞ A small smirk tugged upon the edge of his lips, though it was gone as easily as it came as his gaze shifted back to the dogs in front of him.

     Life on the streets was hard. You never knew when your next meal would come, and a kind hand could be a rarity. In the New Federation, in the Lawless Zone, these dogs would have been a little bit more aggressive than they were here. They’d know that food was not coming to them, that hands that reached out might not have kind intentions, and that people were frightening. They’d bark and keep their distance, some very rarely ever wanting to take a chance. Reaching out, he gently pet the dogs before him in small greeting before standing back to his full height. ❝Might as well enjoy your small break while you’re here before you dive back into that mountain of paperwork I know awaits you.❞

[guhamun]

Com-MUN-ication Meme; no longer accepting || @furiaei

🤩 I WANT TO WRITE EVERYTHING WITH YOU ( forever making grabby hands @ ur wonderful array of muses )

I am holding Mya and all your muses close AAAAA. I am always down to write any and everything with you no matter who you toss my way, Blu! I love that it's so easy to tell your thoughts on specific muses due to your ooc on the dash, which most definitely makes you rub your chin in thought.

[guhamun]

Com-MUN-ication Meme; no longer accepting || @intcritus

🥰❤💖🌟🤩

Gawd you already know how much I love you, and am so glad that we followed one another all those years ago. You, like Ambie, are just one of those people I have to have on my dash or it just doesn't feel right. Even when you don't know the muse, I'm forever so grateful that throw someone their way anyway and somehow it all just takes off idek. MAGICAL ABILITIES THERE, TALA. But uuughhh you'll always be one of my favs. That creative mind of yours is so inspiring! I'm always down to write any and everything with you at any given time. Exes? Bffs? Enemies? I'll take them all thank you---

[guhamun]

daisuke's looking at this and now looking at jianyu. daisuke hasn't said anything

❝...❞ Two seconds into this and he was already having questions about what was going through Daisuke's head. No words were spoken. Just a long, long stare that seemed to be waiting for some kind of response from him. Jianyu honestly wasn't sure which was worse. The long silence, or the soul piercing look he was given. ❝There's no judgement here.❞ There was! There was judgement!

[guhamun]

If you get a chuckle out of C.alcharo you're on the right track. You get +50 pts if you manage to get him to laugh because that is the rarest of the rarest thing to manage to get from him. Whether that's because something was said that truly amused him, or it was just so ridiculous that he couldn't help but laugh at what was said, it all gives you a thumbs up emoji 👍.

[guhamun]

HMM…HE COULDN’T ARGUE THERE. There was a plethora of stories floating around in Fontaine about him. Some of which more ridiculous than others, and so he supposed it wouldn’t be too off the cuff for ‘Rex Lapis’ to have tales that were just as fanciful. ❝Very well. I must admit that you do have a point.❞ Such was said grudgingly, an admittance that he wished he didn’t have to speak at all. Neuvillette should know better, he knew. After all, he was one who searched for the truth, and that meant even doing so for silly little stories. The traveler had even corrected him a few times, helping give him a much better picture of what was true, and what was not. ❝Tell me, then, is there even a sliver of truth there? Perhaps the story was simply misremembered.❞ That was possible, after all.

"It seems a little unfair of you to automatically take what I say as something other than a true statement. Being the Iudex of Fontaine, I would imagine that you would have many examples of stories that turned out to be anything but." His tone is soft and matter-of-fact at the same time. Tasting his tea once more, he quietly clears his throat.

"Besides, if you were apprehensive of me telling the truth then what purpose would it serve you to ask me a question at all? Unless, you were hoping to hear an answer that you would have liked to hear instead."

[guhamun]

Tiny bite-sized SSR men <3

[guhamun]

THERE WAS SOME RELIEF felt upon hearing those words, though he did not relax completely. He wouldn’t until he heard exactly what it was that Atlas desired of him. The black out barriers caught Jianyu’s attention, curiosity welling within him once more as the room grew a little darker with each inch lowered until it was clear that no one, no matter how brilliant their technology might be, would be able to see anything in that office. Soon they were nearly in the dark, the only light to fill the room being the smaller projection that soon appeared before him with its cerulean glow. Sharp eyes were quick to take in the tattoo upon the necks of those shady looking people, his gaze narrowing just a little with a faint hint of familiarity.

     He had seen those before. At the time he hadn’t thought much of it, but perhaps he should have paid more attention. It had just been a glance, nothing more than that. However, even from that simple glance, he could tell something was…off about that mark. Was this a gang? Were the Tsukinos in some kind of trouble? His questions were soon answered as quickly as they came to mind, Jianyu leaning back and lifting a hand to cup his chin in thought. ❝You’re worried that whoever it is that has put you in this situation might wind up turning up the heat if you don’t give them exactly what they want.❞ It was not a complicated observation. If anything, knowing this now, made everything less confusing.

     Of course they would go to outside help to monitor the Tsukinos. Atlas didn’t know if whoever was blackmailing him was within the company or outside of it, and he refused to take any chances. Still, that did beg to question one thing. ❝How can you be so sure you can trust me? You took a chance in bringing me into all this.❞ He wasn’t one prone to betraying clients for better profit. Nor did he go about sharing their personal business either. But how would Atlas know that? ❝I could be a wolf in sheep’s clothing, going along with you, taking your money…and then wind up sharing information with someone else.❞

atlas didn't need to look twice to catch that look in his eyes; a certain protectiveness that he too is somewhat familiar with. he stood his ground against the mere concept of any harm to befall on this family .... he stifles back the corner of his lips from perking up any further. ( good. that's a good start. ) this reaction only told him that this sort of attitude will be a good and steady foundation to present this task he wanted to give him. with a flick of his wrist, the projections seem to slide away and disappear from jianyu's sight. there was no need to callously showcase how long he's been keeping ... track of him. he only needed to show him just how serious he is in expending his resources, even if the ceo often tended to be stuck in one place for the duration of his work.

" worry not. the task i want to give you is the exact opposite of that. " atlas snaps his fingers, suddenly bringing down a protective layer of black out barriers to slowly come sliding down outside of the large windows that surrounded his office. ( he'd rather stay safe and not have any additional eyes on them even from outside of this building. ) before the room could be fully encased in complete darkness, another projection, smaller this time, would show itself before jianyu's eyes. it was a slideshow of pictures; showcasing images of suspicious looking people -- the most common factor about them was the odd, black marking of a flower-shaped 'tattoo' of sorts embedded into the back of their necks.

" there was a leak recently within the company that compromised not just our private data, but also some more .... personal details that i do not wish to divulge just yet. as a result, whoever leaked these details, now intend on hurting this family for the result of blackmailing me and trying to twist my hand in compromising with them with whatever they want. " there's low dip in his tone upon the mention of these leakers hurting the family; folded hands subtly clenching even tighter against each other.

he sighs, vexation evident. " my people have yet to find out who it was that leaked our information, so as a result, this task i wish to give out has to be given to someone external from this company. there are only a handful of people i trust within this building, and unfortunately, they do not have the right means of protecting them ..... as a result, what i want to hire you for is your bodyguarding service. since you're already familiar with the family, the task of protecting them should not warrant too much suspicion. monetary compensation will naturally be provided, should you accept. "

[guhamun]

TRUE. NINJA THRIVED IN WAR since their expertise was most valued during such times. In order to protect one’s clan, sometimes you had little choice but to learn how to basically survive such chaotic transition as best you could. Jianyu hummed in acknowledgement, saying nothing in regards to that as another sip was taken of his tea. Honestly, he was glad that he never had to experience such a thing back home. The most he had ever dealt with the occasional bandit who sought to attack smaller patrol groups. Nothing like the civil unrest of two warlords intent on defeating another. Temporarily, he found himself turning his attention back to Tsuyuko’s food, his thoughts shifting just for a moment or two as he wondered once more how in the world she was going to manage to eat that entire meal. He wasn’t particularly hungry right now, but if she needed assistance…

     It wasn’t until she spoke again that he managed to tug his focus back to their conversation, his gaze moving back to rest upon her rather than that heap of food she happily enjoyed. ❝So, I wasn’t too far off the mark, then. Comforting.❞ Manipulating shadows with magic wasn’t at all a strange concept. This, even more so, when it came to thieves and assassins. You had to have some semblance of magical or spiritual ability in order to do any of that, though. Even then, it wasn’t exactly easy to master…or so he had been told. How much would Tsuyuko share with him if he prodded for more information? Perhaps it was best not to test his luck. After all, most who slunk about in the shadows were not at all keen on sharing the how behind their techniques. She had told him far more than he expected.

     He'd have to be content.

     ❝Heh, a spar, huh? Well, that would certainly be interesting. Can’t say that I’ve ever dealt with anyone quite like you before, so, it’d be rather educational.❞ He still wanted to know how she managed to hide from him so well. It was startling for one who relied so heavily upon the heightened senses he had been born with. ❝Name and time and place, and I’ll make sure to clear my schedule.❞

“Well…” Her answer briefly trailed off into a beat before she tipped her shoulders to emphasize her point, “I don’t really have much choice, do I?” War was not forgiving for those who inevitably get caught in it. The warlords of noble samurai clans might have suffered from a casualty within their numbers, yet it was always the common people who had to go through even worse hardship as everything they had were so easily taken away from them when war ravaged their lands. Knowing such in order to survive within turbulent times, she didn’t have much choice but to arm and defend herself — eventually being taken under her mentor’s wing to learn the arts of combat, espionage and esoteric assassination techniques, turning such survival skills into a profitable business.

“Oh, of course not,” she cooed, gently setting down her cup before turning her attention to the bread and savory relish provided within her plating. With a quick move of her butter knife, she takes few dollops of the gravy, spreading it upon the surface of the bread evenly. “Some secrets behind our work are not meant to be shared, Jianyu-san.” The bad, the good and the dirty. “Unveiling our secrets means unveiling our possible weakness, like showing your backs to the enemies…” Garnishing the bread with pieces of scrambled eggs and freshly cut vegetables, the dish was now set to be enjoyed. “Maybe if I’m generous enough I’ll share a little secret or two, eh? Who knows?” Came her first bite — a particularly lofty one that allowed her to savor the exquisite combination between the bread, condiment, eggs and vegetables; her golden eyes came alight with elation.

“Mmm, tasty~!”

Still, she was listening intently to where this conversation was headed. It seemed like that the mercenary’s curiosity was a little far from sated. Hearing such rumors directly from himself, the kunoichi couldn’t help but to let out a chuckle, entertained and amused. “You’re not exactly wrong about that.” Shadow-walking, shapeshifting into unassuming animals, those were common knowledge of their forte and she would have expected such response. “Quite unnerving, isn’t it? To imagine that you could be watched in every single move by an unassuming mouse or a gadfly…” Her lips pulled itself into a smile of mischief, soon followed by a piece of bread to the mouth. “Like I said, you did your research quite well. Very interesting to think about if you were to face one in combat, right?”

It might as well as translate to ‘ why don’t we spar sometime to fuck around and find out? ’

[guhamun]

IT WAS NO SECRET to anyone that Sampo was a man of questionable motives. His words often made it hard to fully trust him, his mannerisms one of a cunning fox more so than anything else. At one time, even Natasha thought herself foolish to put too much trust in one who oozed the kind of shadiness that one would see in back alleys, but when those under her care needed supplies, she hadn’t had the luxury of turning away from any offered help. Imagine her surprise when Sampo managed to always find exactly what she needed each and every time. The danger he had to go through finding his way onto the surface must have been great. However, just like those foxes from tales of old, he was able to slip by, and always return seemingly unscathed. It mattered little if there were ulterior motives for his goodwill so much as the fact that he always went above and beyond for this small clinic. Nothing else to her mattered save for this. Thus, she was not harsh in her judgement of this man whose name had a tendency to leave another’s lips with displeasure.

     She was grateful.

     ❝Oh, please, Sampo, sometimes even a doctor like me needs that chattiness to fill to air.❞ She laughed softly, lips curled into a soft, gentle smile. Although her work certainly kept her busy enough throughout the day that small talk was far from her thoughts, she did appreciate little moments like this one where everything just wound down. Making her way around her desk with two notepads and pens in tow, she made to approach one of the medicine cabinets in a far corner, opening it and pulling out one of the bottles within. ❝Nothing in particular. Whatever makes things easier for you, more than suffices to get the job done.❞ It was then that she slipped the bottle back into the cabinet, soon to approach Sampo and holding out one of the notepads and pens to him. ❝You know,❞ she began, something almost like a tease in her words (almost--), ❝I think that was the first time I managed to catch a smile like that from you.❞

    Nervous  laughter  likely  told  all  that  there  was  to  tell,  it  spread  his  lips  into  an  awkward  shape,  so  close  to  revealing  a  real  smile  that  fought  with  discomfort.  Much  easier  to  wear  one  etched  in  a  mask.  The  gratitude  for  doing  what  is  right,  considered  charitable  had  never  been  the  sort  of  praise  he  had  sought.  An  uncomfortable  warmth  settled  beneath  his  ribs,  where  that  void  was.  Enough  to  convince  the  performer  that  he  might  have  a  heart  after  all.  Not  the  one  he  conveniently  referenced  when  it  suited  him  most,  invoking  pity  from  the  audience,  but  a  real  one.

     Unless  it  was  possible  that  an  outsider  looking  in  knew  more  than  a  Fool  did  for  once  ?  She  had  called  him  out  in  the  past  for  withholding  information,  not  being  very  forthcoming  with  how  he  presented  his  cryptic  words  that  could  only  be  taken  as  lies.  Perhaps  she  was  onto  something,  even  if  she  was  not  exactly  on  the  mark,  for  Sampo  danced  around  his  true  intentions  in  Belobog,  not  even  the  Trailblazer  was  privy  to  such…  clarification.

     A  moment  too  long  had  passed  after  her  suggestion,  Sampo's  smile  faltering  as  his  mind  regained  focus.  This  did  not  stop  him  from  forcing  enthusiasm  in  his  next  breath.    ❝  It's  alright  !   ❞   A  rather  menial  task,  nothing  that  Sampo  could  really  show  off  his  worth  with.  It  would  be  no  different  from  how  his  fingers  glide  over  his  stack  of  paper  bills,  counting  to  ensure  not  a  buck  was  lost.

     Well,  if  there  was  one  thing  that  he  could  appreciate  about  Wildfire,  it  would  have  to  be  the  personalities,  the  people.  Probably  the  closest  thing  he  could  call  a  friendship,  though  distrust   &&   distaste  for  the  blue-haired  mercenary  was  common  amongst  their  ranks.  This  made  the  good  doctor  here  a  bit  of  an  outlier,  if  her  tolerance  was  anything  to  go  by.   

          ❝  Ah,  but  y'know...  I  get  a  bit  chatty,  would  probably  end  up  distracting  you  ~   ❞   The  Fool  did  not  hesitate  to  throw  her  a  wink  before  giving  an  earnest  nod.  Despite  the  arrogant  display  of  blue  lashes  kissing  the  top  of  his  cheek  for  a  fleeting  moment,  a  genuine  warmth  found  itself  resting  upon  his  face  in  the  form  of  a  tender  smile,  vulpine  curls  straightened  out.

     His  hands  fell  to  his  side,  idly  patting  a  quick  beat  out  on  his  thighs.    ❝  Sure,  Nat.  Do  you  have  a  particular  method  or  is  this  really  just  taking  count  ?   ❞

[guhamun]

HAVING LONG SINCE BECOME accustomed to Huanglong’s relative quiet, he, at times, was unused to the business of cities. Perhaps that was due to his own making since he never truly mingled with the people of that land. Calcharo merely monitored from a distance – occasionally accepting a contract here and there, though for the most part, most of his work involved assisting the Midnight Rangers in places they were spread too thin. Arms crossed over his chest, he overlooked the buildings below, gaze falling upon the colosseum in particular as a cool breeze ruffled long, white locks of hair. Though he did not turn to see his guest, he knew who it was before she had even approached and spoke to him. ❝And you must be Cartethyia,❞ he replied, his sharp eyes soon falling upon the other’s form. There was a curious glint within that icy blue, though as to why such might be there, he had little intention on speaking. After being chained for so long, how was she enjoying her freedom?

     Then again, caged birds sometimes forgot what it was like to spread their wings and take to the sky once more. Sometimes, they sat upon the edge of a window, peering out, yet never taking flight, or, in some cases, never going far. ❝You presume correctly.❞ There was a small pause from him, albeit, for but a second or two before he continued. ❝I heard that you can purify ailments. Is this true? If so, what kind?❞ He had heard tale of her abilities, but it was not something that he had the opportunity to fact check on his own. Everything he knew was merely by word of mouth, and one always had to take such things with a grain of salt unless proven otherwise. ❝Depending on your answer, will depend on how I offer my own to the questions I’m sure you have.❞ After all, he could see that curiosity within her own gaze.

Freedom is oft times associated with positive connotations, yet it can also be no different than a cage where one is forced to choose and engage to those who do not know what to do. Being stripped from the dark whispers of her creator and the tangible faith of the Sentinel when she had anticipated the most that she would meet her end with the Threnodian, it becomes nigh a chore to figure out what to do next. Or rather, perhaps she ought to do nothing at all, now that she is free from the duties that once chained her, most of them cloaked in falsehood.

Her continued presence in Septimont to find the source of Leviathan's traces —they should have been nonexistent, but they are not— earned him a reputation amongst people who needed help yet the society's standards held their tongue from actively seeking it, making out of her a trusted individual to pursue in times of need. This time, it was at the behest of Fulvia —owner of the Solis tavern— that she shows herself up at this time by evening, at the top of the Leonidas Hotel from where the colosseum can be overseen.

Cartethyia is greeted with the back of a man clad in black, his long white hair a curious contrast worth admiring as per Fulvia's description. Silent footsteps lead her by his sides, cornflower irises glued to the scenery before them. ◜You must be the man Fulvia told me about.◞ Her gaze moves to glance at the man as she gives him a brief silence of courtesy for him to gather his thoughts. ◜I presume that your request must be rather unconventional if her judgement led you to me.◞

@guhamun ☥

[guhamun]

WHAT PASSED EDEN’S LIPS was so thoroughly unexpected, that Mydei found himself too taken aback to speak for a few moments. ‘You are so brave and quiet, I forgot that you are suffering.’ By now, he would have thought he’d be used to anything that this woman would say. After all, she had a tendency to say the most off-the-cuff statements he had ever heard in the entirety of his life, and yet, here he was, unable to do anything but meet her gaze with his own. Quiet, he glanced away, gaze now far off into that distant horizon once more. He had not been here in Castrum Kremnos long, and yet, he did miss the sight of Kephale’s light. The warmth of it… It seemed so far away from him nowadays. However, admittedly, even without the sun being present, being able to speak to another like this after what felt like so long, might as well have been just as powerful in chasing away the cold.

     Maybe he had needed this…

     Did Eden realize that?

     Saying nothing in regards to her worry, he instead, answered the rest of her words. ❝I suppose I can grant you a bit of time, if that is what you want.❞ Nevermind the fact that time was not something any of the Crysos Heirs had anymore. ‘One day, you shall die with a wound in your back.’ Prophecies were cruel things. The more you hoped that it would not come true, the more you felt you deviated from Fate’s weaving, in the end, it always came to pass. He knew his fate. Had always known it. However, he would pretend. For Eden, for now, he would. Mydei met her gaze once more with the faintest upturn of his lips. ❝That almost sounds like a challenge, Outworlder. I am not that much in a hurry. Since it seems you would miss me too much, I guess that means I have to go with you. Just a bit, though. Phainon would get bored if I was not around to keep him on his toes.❞

─「エデン」─  the soft laugh caught her slightly off-guard. hues of GOLD turned to look at him, wondering what it was that she said to be amusing to him. over, and over. the words fell from his lips as casual as a comment about the weather. like a fact, a PROMISE that he made to himself. it sounded ... endless. wasn't the whole flame-chasing journey felt like so for them ? thousands and thousands of years until they arrived here, and even so, he continued to do so because he was needed. ah ... so that was what he meant by her reason being the same as his. he was right about that.

                the sound of HER NAME did make her pause, head turning to look at him. was that the first time he called her by her name ? it felt like so. his question hung in the air for a moment longer, eyes turning skyward.

                " you are so brave and quiet, i forget you are suffering. " the words were recited perfectly, each syllable carved into her mind from a BOOK that dan heng gave her to read some time back. " the words remind me of you. " someone so strong, unyielding, and immortal. someone who would get back up no matter how many times he fell, and someone who had never utter a word of complaint over the PAIN and wounds he attained. and she understood that, more than anyone. the TRAILBLAZER who became a hero of worlds. so many depended on them, that's why they cannot falter. but that didn't mean they were invincible. they're still hurt, still bleeds. " ... so i guess i am. worried about you, that is. " she let the words lingered for a moment longer, before aureate orbs finally turned back to him. " do you think you have time before you finally rest ? "

                " after this is all over, there are worlds out there i want to show you. " a pause, amber eyes bright. hopeful. it matter not the prophecy, the truth, the end. it did not matter at all. at least not for now. " unless, of course, you're in a hurry to get that rest. i'd understand if you are. " that was accompanied by a cheeky grin.

[guhamun]

NOT EVEN A HINT of shame from his words. Terrible. Neuvillette huffed, the sound one akin to that of an airy chuckle at the words that followed. Yes, absolutely shameless. Honestly, he would never quite understand what it was that Vali saw that was so divine, but perhaps it was best not to think too hard on that particular topic. Sometimes it was best not to do that in general when it came to this particular Strigoi. Kiss pressed against the curvature of his jaw, he hummed softly with content at both the response he was given, as well as the affection he was further granted. ❝Ah, I think I have heard of that dish. I cannot recall the name of it, but I will admit that it has fascinated me.❞ There were a great deal of things outside of Fontaine that he helped interest in. After all, at the end of the day, Neuvillette was one who enjoyed learning new things and committing them to memory. How pleased he was to see that those from other lands were coming to Fontaine and creating shops in the market square.

     It was all much needed change.

     The people of this land had become far too used to things being fairly stagnant. But they were learning to keep up with the constant flow of water little by little. He’d give them another a hundred of so years to be better at it. Fontainians were notorious for dragging their feet. ❝I look forward to that evening.❞ His lips curled slightly into a small smile. There were not enough words to speak his appreciation to Valentin for the many things he did for him. Despite how he had thanked him many, many times over the years, it never quite seemed like enough. Lifting his hand, he pressed the cool surface of his glove upon Vali’s cheek, palm curving to match the shape. ❝I will be there.❞ Hand slipping away, he watched as the other moved from his lap, soon to take their leave of that vast office. Silence soon fell once again, his gaze sliding away from the door to the documents awaiting him. He’d look over just a couple more before departing.

     Seven, they said.

     He’d be there.

𝐈𝐌𝐏𝐄𝐑𝐓𝐈𝐍𝐄𝐍𝐓 𝐀𝐍𝐃 𝐔𝐍𝐀𝐒𝐇𝐀𝐌𝐄𝐃, 𝐕𝐀𝐋𝐄𝐍𝐓𝐈𝐍 shrugs his shoulders as he's called on his lack of patience, looking all too pleased. It becomes evident a moment later, when he writhes just-so in Neuvillette's lap, mouth twitching with a flash of fang, a glint of brilliant eyes.

"Who could bear the wait, with something so divine on the horizon?"

Though all told, he supposes he can be patient when he doesn't realize he's waiting. If that were not the case, then he wouldn't have been able to wait all these years while the two of them figured things out.

(So he supposes there are some things worth waiting for, at least.)

It's not unexpected, Neuvillete's request, but Vali chuckles warmly nonetheless. Of course that would be what he'd ask for. Vali's mouth twists, fond, and he leans up to press a kiss to his jaw for it. He also takes the motion as a chance to get to his feet with some effort- not because it is difficult to move, but because it is difficult to leave Neuvillette behind when he is being so... free with his affection, for once.

Truly, the things one does for love.

"Mmm, I do not think I can have it made on such short notice, however... There is an Inazuman dish where they inundate their rice in tea and top it with fish. Another evening, perhaps?"

For the moment, he can certainly order something worthy of Neuvillette from the Debord. Reaching out to tuck a few strands of hair away from Neuvillette's face, he presses a kiss to his forehead, doting.

"I will see you at seven, iubit."

He trusts, as he departs, that Neuvillette will not keep him waiting.

[guhamun]

TO SURVIVE THE HEAT of battle, it was always important to rely on those around you. It was not just your skill that kept you alive, but theirs as well. Kremnoan tactics always utilized watching the backs of your comrades to ensure both offense and defense. Of course, that was not always easy to accomplish when fighting against enemies as fearsome as Titankin, but discipline, tactics – those were always important in keeping some semblance of control of the battlefield. Mydei had no choice but to rely on this being who had appeared from out of thin air. Whether they were friend or foe mattered little. For the time being, their blades turned against the same enemy that he and his forces fought against. To him, at this moment, that was all he needed to see. Everything else that came afterward would be dealt with accordingly.

     One thing at a time…

     He could only do so much.

      As the other spoke, their voice carrying across the destruction like the beating of a thousand drums, he found himself pausing just for a moment – just enough to take in the brilliance of their form. They would aid them. That was all that Mydei needed to hear. All he needed to know (at least for now). Nothing else need be said between him and this ‘Zabnki’ as he turned away, moving forward and pushing those around him to fight with greater ferocity and open a path forward. He’d keep the false Nikador busy for as long as possible until he was able to receive aid from those who too shared his golden blood. No one else would be allowed to join him…for no one else would be able to withstand the earth shattering-blows of that god and survive. Mydei would simply have to buy as much time as possible until that time came. Once Nikador fell, the Titankin would be demoralized and much easier to eliminate without the god’s fervor guiding their weapons and pushing them to fight with such ferocity.

     As much as this immortal body was akin to a curse, it had its moments of being a blessing. After all, who else could have a prolonged battle with a deity and continue to stand save for him? Mentally, he prepared himself, fear furthest from his thoughts as he rushed forward, killing Titankin in his path with every step forward. After all, his focus need only be on the fight ahead.

     How many times would he die?

War was never a calm time, with emotions and thoughts on a mile high, it was hard for man to understand fully of their surroundings. The need to beat their enemy in front often left their backs open but they overcome such things with companions, with soldiers and warriors with determination to stand their grounds and remain alive. To swing swords, fists and remove all problems to return to a peace they can hold with the fear they've implanted in their enemies. Zabnki knew of it well, he lived for that rush of violence, the steadfast stubbornness to never back down, to thrive on the field at their brothers beck and call, knowing that death would not be in vain for when they stand with what is right and fair.

So, with ease, even in the confusion of this world being revealed to him, monsters that stood tall and wide, with people gathering the unable and mending the harmed. The Lions roar of a Chieftain ahead of himself, a King, a Solider, a Warrior - a command was given amongst it all. Where the clashes of blades and might became nothing less of a chime of Zabnki's understanding. His multi-gaze rose from those of confused squints, taking in the damage of thousands and turning his bulk to fast the growing army of opposition. His tail swayed, pushing debris into piles, to protect that of those behind him, to relieve them some protection as his gait pushed him forward in a steady stride.

"Warriors of a Foreign Realm… " He spoke within ease, a booming deepness that would rattle the bones of the fallen and the living. "I am Zabnki, Dancer of Carnage." Weaponry would be on display, weaving liquid gold into his standard blades, spear and gauntlet. "I have received my order." A glow, crimson as his skin sizzled with markings burning through flesh - his jowls, fanged and parted, allowed steam to exit as if another trailblazer train was to form from it. Instead, his stance lowered at the knees, bracing itself within moments of time. "Witness my blades, as I the Heavenly Demon, will show you my strength!" A crunch of ivory stone beneath clawed toes and the beast pushed forward.

Running with more and more speed, as his size turned smaller, compact and with it his blades struck forth. Impaling the dead centre of the oncoming wave, the collision caused silence, then the blast of energy from the God pierced through, a whirlwind of gore, stone and sand. A path to be cleared and aimed right for the God of Strife in the distance… Zabnki's features were twisted in pure glee, demented in the violence he was born for but mostly to heed the order command by something mortal.

"Leave these monsters to me, Warrior of the Foreign Realm… " As he blades were released from the first beasts belly and twisted on delighted fingers, the multi-armed being stepped through rubble to greet the hesitant masses. "I shall dance until their is no more!" And so he would, leaping with grace, twirling with intense joy to split rows of enemies in a blizzard of bloody red sand, barring them from even touching a hair of Mydei's men nor himself.