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crewofthegoldrush · 2 years ago

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family tree y’all! yesterday i dropped some Runswick lore - now it’s time for family lore -

One of the things I enjoy about Eberron is the standard approach to "alignment is inherent to certain creatures and beings" is basically nonexistent. For example, there is no association between good, evil and a dragon's colors - an adult dragon could be gold but with an evil alignment. However, "otherisms" and various forms of hate are alive and well in this world, not too surprising when you've grown up only knowing war.

I say all this as a preface to Gemini and Jolene Twain, metallic dragonborn (brass and gold, respectively) who hold a minorly secret dislike of chromatic dragonborn. They are not racist per say - as that's not an applicable word for this situation, and certainly dragonborn are more respectful than that, surely! - but definitely make it no secret that they see non-metal dragonborn as beneath them, although they believe they hide it well. Gemini is much more the hard ass between the two and runs his family and hospitality business with an iron fist, placing expectations on his children that they couldn't always meet. Jolene is less harsh by comparison but she is absolutely that Karen type, and was known to be abrasive and haughty. Her gold feathers have a coppery sheen that she used to claim was rose gold.

They did not take too kindly to Belle's relationship with Memphys due to his chromatic coloring and their wish for her to marry within the Entertainment Family, nor did they take well to some of the types their other children ended up marrying as well. Jolene has since passed, and an older, ailing Gemini currently lives with his daughter Debutante.

Monty bears an obvious resemblance to Grandpa Gemini, something she absolutely hates. They were not particularly close growing up, as neither of her grandparents are particularly affectionate, however they both seemed to accept her more than they did Memphys. Monty has since learned, from a hard conversation with her Ma, that Gemini wants nothing to do with his banished, disgraceful granddaughter.

Sloan and Callie Grey in comparison to the Twains, were some of the most open and friendly people in Runswick and raised their kids with a sense of justice and valor. Sloan especially did not put up with any of Gemini's bullshit, and the brass dragon smartly kept his mouth mostly shut around him, knowing the beefier lawman could absolutely kick his ass if it came to it.

Sloan was perfectly capable of beating up rude dragons should they test his patience enough, but he was known to be a gentle giant; he loved his job as a glorified guard in the town but, unlike his son, never strove for that coveted Sheriff position. In comparison, Callie was a spitfire of a dragon and still is to this day. Although she took no shit from anyone, instilling a confidence in their children that they still carry with them, she was known to be absolutely friendly and welcoming.

Sloan was a powerful sorcerer and passed on the family rumor that his bloodline was "touched by Bahamut," something Memphys fully believes wholeheartedly, while Arizona and Monty are more doubtful. Sloan has since passed, but Callie lives with Arizona in another town called Burnsley. She and Arizona are both clerics of Bahamut. Monty is named after Gramma Callie, whose maiden name was Montgomery.

Memphys, Arizona and Thes were thick as thieves through almost their entire lives, as the O’dora family was very close with Sloan. Arizona very obviously took after her mom, not just in appearance but also in her career, as from a young age she always knew she would be a doctor. Where she differs from her Ma, though, is Arizona is not much of a spitfire, ironically for her element, and tends to gain confidence from her older brother and his best friend, Thes. Arizona and Thes, having very opposite personalities, did not first get along, until Arizona realized how much Thes’ brash personality was actually bringing her out of her shell. After a til sunrise conversation about - well, everything - the two ended up dating and stayed together for quite a number of years. Eventually, the two underwent a rather amicable break up after Arizona realized she wanted kids and Thes didn’t. They still remain friendly today, and no matter where Monty’s epilogue takes her, it is intended that these two find their way back to each other later in life.

Memphys, compared to his sister, had a personality as big as his beefy frame. Even as a teenager, he was always big, in all senses of the word - if Runswick had a quarterback, it would probably be Memphys. It was hard to knock him or Thes down, and it was really of no concern to him if the prettiest silver dragonborn he had ever seen had a Pa who couldn’t stand him. Both Memphys and Thes mellowed out a bit as they got older, mostly due to the influence of his Pa, but also from Sheriff Shephard Yang, an older tiefling who taught Memphys a lot of lessons that he still carries with him today.

Today Thes and Memphys are still so close they’re practically siblings, and it was Thes, after the Greys learned Monty could not cast magic properly, who helped Monty discover her love for artificing.

Belle is the youngest of her three siblings, which made her a bit spoiled as some youngests can be, but she was still held to the same standards as anyone else in her family - live and breathe Entertainment and do not settle for anything less. When she was younger, this haughty approach to life made her perhaps as bitchy as her oldest sister, but meeting the Grey family mellowed this out of her completely. Her parents were never especially able to pass on any of their - well - prejudices, onto her, so she never disliked Memphys for being chromatic - no, she disliked him for proper reasons, like him not shutting up in class. It wasn’t until he and Thes sat during one of her performances - respectfully silent and obviously transfixed - that she too finally took proper notice of him and they have been pretty much inseparable ever since.

Her instrument of choice is singing and she owns her saloon in Runswick that her father has no claim to whatsoever. It is rumored the saloon is set to go to not Monty or Tequila, but Belle’s favorite little step-nephew.

Faith Twain, a copper dragonborn, is, if you asked Gemini or Jolene, the family disappointment. Yes she stayed within Entertainment (her instrument of choice being the violin/fiddle) and even married someone in that Family - Faith’s personality is completely unbecoming of a Twain. Being the second to youngest put her as one of two middle children; this left Faith a bit on the sidelines and she liked this perfectly well. She dislikes her parents more strongly than any of her siblings, and was known to be a “back talker.” If Runswick had a punk scene, she would have probably been in it, and is the only Twain to bear tattoos. She is absolutely the cool rebel aunt figure in Monty’s life (very similar to Thes as well) who ruins holiday dinners just by being there.

Belle believes Faith had a thing for Arizona that she never acted on - not that it matters, as the minute she met Magnolia any other gal stopped existing for her. It was love at first sight for Faith, although not as much for Magnolia, who settled down in Runswick after losing her parents in the war, and took a job waitressing at one of the bars. It was a rocky start for them, as it was not lost on Mag that a lot of the reptile races in town did not take too kindly to her being a half-elf - especially Faith’s parents; not only was she a “pink folk,” she was a half-breed too? And couldn't you do better than a waitress? Of course, none of it mattered though, and the two eventually married and got the hell out of her parents' thumb. They currently own a bar together, Stealin’ Kisses.

Chadwick looks almost like Belle’s twin, but he is older than her by a few years (assuming dragonborn don’t lay multiple eggs lmao), although the two are probably the closest of the four siblings. Chadwick, despite being a bit bigger than his sisters, to the point where most people assumed he was the oldest, he is probably the more meekier of the four, and he doesn’t usually stand up for himself as much as he does for his sisters. He did his best to avoid internalizing some of the more nastier teachings of his parents, but found he had a lot to unlearn when he met Duke later in life.

Chadwick had a wife, although she passed in their forties from an illness, and the two ultimately never had kids together. Chadwick met Duke a few years later; being a lizardfolk - and a worker in the mines - his parents did not approve, but the two immediately bonded. Duke was also a widow, raising a young kobold on his own, and the three eventually became a little family. Although Duke and Chadwick no longer live in Runswick, Chadwick instilled his love of piano into his new step-son, who took to it like a duck to water and still lives in Runswick today.

Debutante, the oldest of the Twain siblings, is, compared to the other three, the spitting image of her parents. She looks partially similar to her father, although her feathers are as bright brass-yellow as a trumpet. She is also the most similar to them in personality, as she is just as harsh, haughty, and entitled as they are. She does not get along with the Greys and never did. Like her youngest sister, Debbie is a singer, although secretly she finds hotel management much more enjoyable.

Debbie is currently divorced from her husband, Palmer Shelton, and recently changed her name back to Twain. It was rumored that their marriage was not the happiest, and for all her sour grapes, Debbie seems to be on the path towards bettering herself, if she could get her nagging father out of her ear. From how it sounds though, she is less frosty now than she was in her youth.

Monty is her father’s daughter through and through, and takes after the Grey’s in all ways but appearances, and has secretly always resented that she did not inherit the Grey’s mane and sorcery. She emulates her mother in personality and appearance, and her father in behavior and life goals, and even her aunt Thes in her tinkering and sense of self, but everyone knows she has always been a “daddy’s girl.” She also misses her “Pops” somethin’ fierce.

Tequila came to live with the Grey’s well into Monty’s adulthood, as she was already in her twenties when she came home from a wedding to find this blue kobold in her Ma’s arms, looking like she was about to ask her father if she could keep a lost puppy. Tequila, although never officially adopted, is considered and treated like a daughter and a sister, and she and Monty formed a synergy that made them perfect for their short times as Sheriff and Deputy. In contrast to Monty, Tequila is more of a Mama’s girl, as being an orphan probably makes her a bit more wanting for a motherly figure. The two formed even more of a bond, as over the five years of Monty’s banishment, it was Tequila and Belle who wrote to each other to keep the family in communications.

If Monty gave two shits about Gemini’s opinion, it would probably occur to her that he would not like Aubrey in the least - not because she’s an assassin, although he certainly would shit himself to learn this, but because she is a human - a changeling? - and even worse, she’s an aberrant? The look on his face if he ever met Grixie would surpass anything he might have to say about Aubrey, and there is a small part of Monty that hopes she might get the chance to see it someday. Callie, however, Monty is sure would love Aubrey and Grixie, and would welcome them into the family with a bear hug that both gals would have no choice but to endure.

Monty has seven cousins, six of whom live throughout Khovaire (four to Debbie and Palmer, and two to Arizona and an ex partner, all of various ages; Faith & Maggie live that DINK life) while one of them still lives in Runswick. Cheddar took to piano, and enjoyed his time with his step-aunt, so much that he still works at her saloon! Monty loves her little cuz, even if they aren’t the closest. Being of similar ages - and both relating to the other for being taken in by another family - Tequila and Cheddar consider each other buddies, even if that comes in the form of some light-hearted familial bullying. Cheddar is a good sweet bard, but his good heart makes him a bit of an easy target. He is currently dating Rigby of the law family, a spunky brown kobold who dreams of becoming Runswick’s first kobold Sheriff.

–

me placing the little hearts between Montbrey: teeheehee

It is very purposeful that monty’s cousins do not have names or designs, but retconning Cheddar as one of them felt extremely natural. He was a well liked kobold that we met for only two sessions, but he has the distinction of being the only character the meek and quiet Tequila has ever bullied (even if it was friendly, and hilarious), and it was so funny to realize how much sense it would make if they were cousins.

and that’s Monty’s family! poor Aubrey and Grixie really don’t know what they’re getting into lmao

#dnd #dungeons and dragons #dnd 5e #eberron #dragonborn #dnd dragonborn #art only #monty #aubrey #tequila #grixie #writing this made me wonder if it would be cool to make aunt faith aberrant but i haven't committed to that yet #but its not gonna stop me from wondering what her spells would be #i almost included the yangs and the o'mallys as i would love to draw them eventually but yall my hand is busted after this one lmao

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freekzout · 8 months ago

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MUSE ASSOCIATIONS.

SPICE. star anise.

WEATHER. brilliantly sunny but bitingly cold.

COLOR. dark red, black, gold.

COLOR OF THE SKY. crimson sunsets that make the tops of the trees look like they're on fire. stars winking through the blaze.

MAGICAL POWER. i think ruth deserves to set things on fire with her mind rather than her nose. she should also be able to talk to and argue with ghosts.

SHOE. suede khaki vans

HOUSEPLANT. mini cactus.

WEAPON. brass knuckles, her cunning, her wit, her roommate's arse.

SCHOOL SUBJECT. english, latin, modern studies.

SOCIAL MEDIA. twitter, also a moderator on the weather channel wiki.

CANDY. chocolate-covered honeycomb, mints. funke laughs at her for this. he's right for once.

FEAR. lost, or forgotten, potential. loneliness.

ICE CUBE SHAPE. stars :)

METHOD OF LONG DISTANCE TRAVEL. power-walking like every other queer (tote bag slung over shoulder) (breathing shortly but silently) loves the subway no matter how much she complains. (there's a parallel there to her relationship with funke that you must deduce for yourself)

ART STYLE. classicism.

HISTORICAL PERIOD. 1990s new york city.

MYTHOLOGICAL CREATURE. dragon (crowd goes wild)

PIECE OF STATIONERY. hardbook notebook and a fresh ballpoint but on her budget it's more like several post-it-notes stuck together and a yellow highlighter with a large ink stain that smudges/stains everything you scrawl no matter how deft one's efforts.

THREE EMOJIS. 🐉🤧👊

CELESTIAL BODY. the sun.

tagged by: @guttersniper!

tagging: you!

#DRAGON LADY. 🐉🔥

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dmsden · 3 years ago

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To Thyself Be True - What beyond alignment makes dragons unique?

Hullo, Gentle Readers. Reaching into my mailbag for another Question from a Denizen, I find that this week comes from my good friend Sammy Haines. He asks, “Here's my question for your mailbag: If you were to remove alignment from true dragons (Chromatic, metallic, heck even Gem)... what would make each Dragon type unique? Like, what makes a green dragon a green dragon? What would a good aligned and evil aligned black dragon have in common? Etc”

Fun question, Sammy! I’m going to remove the gem dragons from this article. They’re neutral, so their alignments fluctuations aren’t as extreme as the colors and metals. Also, to be brutally honest, these versions of them are so new that I don’t yet feel I have a strong handle on them. So, that being said, let’s look at the other ten true dragon-types to see what we can find at their core.

Black dragons are primarily known for cruelty and a fascination for the collapse of humanoid civilization. In a good dragon, this might translate as a willingness to undermine civilizations that are known for their evil and desire to see bad people suffer. I could imagine a black dragon inserting itself into an evil society, helping to bring down tyrants, ruin the economies of those who thrive on cruelty, and generally destroy those who would destroy others. Black dragons would particularly despise creatures like mind flayers or those who live by exploiting the helpless, and they would see to it that such creatures would suffer.

Blue dragons are known primarily for vanity, patience, and valuing people with talents to be part of their networks of servants. They’re extremely territorial, as well. I see no reason that a good blue dragon couldn’t be much the same. Their territoriality might be less lethal, but they’re going to want to know why people are coming into their lands, possibly stalking them for days to learn their nature before deciding whether to wipe them out or gently escort them away. Instead of seeking out talented people like spies and assassins, they might seek talented artists, bards, and scholars, measuring their vanity by the quality of the people they attract.

Brass dragons are very talkative folks. They love to associate with people and find interesting individuals to have excellent conversations with. This even extends to their love of treasures, as they’re going to be most attracted to items that afford them someone to talk to, such as an intelligent sword, or something like a djinn’s lamp. An evil brass dragon might happily resort to kidnapping people in order to have people to talk to. They might ransom their prisoners back, but they’ll take their time in returning them, enjoying the conversation all the while. Or, if the conversation displeases them, they might cut it short...along with the person’s life.

Bronze dragons are coastal dwellers, and they have a fascination with warfare. An evil bronze dragon might become a notorious pirate, pillaging ships in its terrain. It could come up from below, damage the ship’s hull, and simply let it sink before collecting any treasures or goods it wishes. Alternately, it’s easy to imagine an evil bronze dragon becoming a tyrannical sealord, joining in naval battles for a steep price, or bringing a fleet of ships under its command to expand its territory.

Copper dragons are the pranksters of the dragon world; they love jokes and riddles and tricks. Turned on its head, this could lead to a very dark figure indeed. An evil copper dragon might ask a riddle to passerby and devour anyone who couldn’t answer it. They might well develop deadly pranks or puzzles for someone to avoid or escape, leading almost to a Saw like encounter, where adventurers who can’t figure out what the dragon is up to might find themselves in a deadly trap.

Gold dragons are known for wisdom and aloofness. They often take on human guise and become a companion to someone in need, but, beyond this, they withdraw and keep to themselves. An evil gold dragon might become a “friend” to a human, only to ruin that person’s life, or, worse, befriend someone evil, becoming an adviser or confidant. It’s easy to imagine one becoming a cruel adviser to a warlord or evil king, allowing the dragon access to their treasuries, where they will betray their “friend” and consume gold and pearls in vast quantities before abandoning them.

Green dragons are best known for their misdirection and trickery, as well as their forest domains. A good green dragon might become a sort of Robin Hood figure, lurking in a forest to relieve rich passerby of their valuables through various tricks and illusions, then giving some of that wealth to the poor (while keeping some for their own hoard as well). They might insert themselves into the councils of evil lords, using trickery to rob their treasuries, improve the lives of the people under them, or lead to the lord’s overthrow.

Red dragons are best known for arrogance, greed, and tyranny, all things that aren’t generally translated well into good alignment. I would subvert this idea by making a red dragon more of a benevolent dictator. Yes, they would demand the treasures of their “subjects”, but, in return, they would make certain those below them are well provided for and protected. Essentially, the realm’s wealth would belong to the overlording dragon, but the people below the dragon would not want for food or prosperity. They would be fond of flattery, but they would want it to be earned...they might truly crave being loved by those in their care.

Silver dragons are likewise known for their nobility and love of the smaller peoples, things that are hard to translate into evil. Perhaps an evil silver dragon might believe they know best for everyone and impose their will over those around them. They might become tyrants in their own right, taking the guise of a warlord and conquering the lands they claim by force. They might want to be in and among the people of those lands, but as a master, not a friend. They are likely to retain the fascination with human history and humans in general, but they’re more likely to take what they want by force, knowing the fragility of human life will allow them to threaten, cajole, and, if needed, annihilate those who keep them from their desires.

White dragons are known for their animal-like tendencies, being the purest hunters. A good white dragon might adopt a human community, becoming a guardian and provider in exchange for some treasures. They might hunt with some of the townsfolk to bring down powerful prey, and they will wreak a terrible savagery on anyone foolish enough to threaten their extended family.

I hope you enjoyed reading this, Sammy. I definitely enjoyed writing it. Until next time, may all your encounters with dragons be friendly ones.

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ask-fantasy-sanders-sides · 4 years ago

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So given the lightning effects Vee gives off, does this mean he's likely descended from a blue or bronze shadow-dragon?

(( This is the “part two” I was talking about~!))

Well, if Virgil is descended from a Drow Dragon-shifter, he would have a 'tell' specific to his type!

Dragon-shifter descendants can either manifest their parent's Mana or their Might, which changes the way their heritage manifests.

Those who manifest Mana are born as spellcasters (sorcerer or wizard) who specialize in the elemental magic of their parent, either dark magic from the shadow dragon mutation or the element of the base dragon type (fire, ice, lightning, etc). Those who manifest Might have physical mutations to match the distinctive traits of their parent dragon type, and are incredibly stealthy (more so than drow usually are lol) and naturally give off an intimidating aura.

~~~

The tells are as follows: (Keep in mind, these are specific to the non-shifter children of Drow Shadow-Dragon-Shifters.)

Black Dragons

Mana: A natural talent for necromancy, fear spells, and acid magic.

Might: Thick black hair, unnaturally pale skin on the face and hands, a foul smell. Difficult to grow muscle mass or gain weight. Have either black wings or black fins. Higher tolerance to acid.

Personality (both mana and might): Tend to be more unfazed by death and suffering, and have a high pain tolerance. Enjoy playing with or fixing broken things, exploring ruins, and learning history. Tend to be sorcerers, warlocks, rogues, or artificers.

Blue Dragons

Mana: A natural talent for evocation, teleportation/movement spells, and lightning magic.

Might: Rhino-like horns growing up from their noses. Large, powerful blue-and-black wings and barrel-chests. The smell of sand. Dark-colored hair and at least one dark blue or black eye. The fastest fliers.

Personality: Tend to be vain and talkative, like to show off their skills and looks at any possible opportunity. Adore jewelry, piercings, and tattoos. Drawn to the sound of rolling thunder. Tend to be bards, rogues, or warlocks.

Brass Dragons

Mana: A natural talent for enchantment, communication spells, and fire magic.

Might: “V”-shaped, brass-and-black glider-like wings. Extremely pronounced cheekbones, and owl-like feathers growing from their necks, shoulders, and backs. Radiate heat like nobody’s business. Red irises. Better tolerance for hot temperatures and lightning/thunder damage.

Personality: Extremely, extremely talkative. Get annoyed when they are not the center of attention. Make sure everyone around them is healthy and well-rested, and will incessantly bother them into taking care of themselves if they aren't. Can’t stand to be alone. Don’t blink very often. Tend to be bards or rogues.

Bronze Dragons

Mana: A natural talent for weather/water-controlling magic and lightning magic.

Might: Black claws and jagged teeth. Teal tiger stripes on their skin. Bronze-and-black wings and/or eel-like fins along their torso and limbs. Smell of the ocean. The ability to swim in running water.

Personality: Preference for martial combat. Drawn to the sea. Curious and inquisitive, also very stubborn. Love to organize things and collect old coins. Tend to be bards, rogues, or fighters.

Copper Dragons

Mana: A natural talent for illusions and enchantment, defensive magic, and earth-molding spells.

Might: Flatter, less pronounced noses. Thick skin and copper-and-black, “U”-shaped, glider-like wings. A proportionate version of the copper dragon’s prehensile armored tail. If older, turquiose-green tinted pupils. Better tolerance for hot temperatures.

Personality: Sociable and humorous; love riddles, jokes, and people who make them often. Enjoy entering in battles of wits just to amuse themselves or others, even purposefully taking faulty stances to make the debate more fun. Don’t like violence, or people they can’t read. Adore any and all gifts from friends, and the taste of poisonous prey. Tend to be sorcerers, rogues, or bards.

Gold Dragons

Mana: A natural talent for evocation, battlefield manipulation spells, and fire magic.

Might: Golden or black eyes with no pupil or iris. Golden antler-like horns, claws, and whiskers, all tipped with black. The ability to fly through magic. Their hair reflects golden in sunlight. Better tolerance for extreme temperatures.

Personality: Single-minded and determined, and tend to be solitary. Have a passion for elegant combat. Tend to be paladins, rangers, or rogues.

Green Dragons

Mana: A natural talent for illusion and enchantment, mind-manipulation spells, and poison magic.

Might: Forked tongues and smatterings of green snake-like scales. At least one yellow eye. Green-and-black wings. Better tolerance for poison damage.

Personality: Duplicitous and talkative. Despise being left in the dark about anything, and having secrets kept from them, but keep most of their own personal information close to the chest. Fear violence, and enjoy being the smartest person in the room. Delight in being able to talk their way into and out of things. Value trust over everything else. Tend to be bards, rogues, or spellcastors.

Red Dragons

Mana: A natural talent for evocation, destructive spells, and fire magic.

Might: Red-and-black slightly-frayed wings, and proportionate versions of the red dragon’s horns. Glowing eyes. Smell of smoke. Better tolerance for extreme heat.

Personality: Prideful, greedy, and glutenous. Delight in having power and exercising it over others. Very, very quick to anger. Tend to be barbarians, rogues, or sorcerers.

Silver Dragons

Mana: A natural talent for support and defensive spells, and ice magic.

Might: Silver hair, and pupil-less eyes with silver or black sclera and silvery-purple irises. Silver antler-like horns, that turn purple towards the middle and black at the tips. Soft-furred, weasel-like tails, that fade from white to dark purple to black. The ability to fly through magic. Better tolerance for extreme temperatures.

Personality: Soft-spoken deep thinkers. Adore socializing, but usually prefer to absorb whatever’s going on around them rather than be the loudest voice. Enjoy keepsakes and friendship bracelets. Incredibly glutinous. Tend to be bards, clerics, monks, or rogues.

White Dragons

Mana: A natural talent for necromancy and/or ice magic.

Might: White-and-black wings. Unusually tall and well-muscled; More strong, durable, and dexterous than their peers. At least one eye that is some shade of purple or ice-blue. Able to swim in running water, and better tolerance for cold.

Personality: Prefer to avoid social situations, and tend to hate talking, going days or even years avoiding it. Extremely good hunters, and don’t trust food they haven’t hunted themselves, preferring the taste of fresh meat to anything else. Extremely loyal to those who win their trust, though this trust is not easily or quickly won. Tend to be rangers, fighters, barbarians, or rogues.

!! Note !! : As part shadow-dragon, ALL of them have natural skill in shadow-manipulation magic, Mana AND Might-focused!

#long post #Game Lore #long answer #lets roll #not as long as the last one tho #this story is VERY dragon-centric #I got a LOT of the changes to the dragon’s designs from tumblr user filibusterfrog! Go check out their blog!

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chispas-and-broken-bindings · 3 years ago

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Daario, you blue-bearded rogue - Part 1

A small reminder that this dude:

has fuck all in common with book!Daario. (the other rando they cast didn’t either).

I feel like taking a stroll through memory lane. Won’t you join me?

We are introduced to Daario in A Storm of Swords, in which we get a wonderfully detailed description of him in Daenerys IV:

Daario Naharis was flamboyant even for a Tyroshi. His beard was cut into three prongs and dyed blue, the same color as his eyes and the curly hair that fell to his collar. His pointed mustachios were painted gold. His clothes were all shades of yellow; a foam of Myrish lace the color of butter spilled from his collar and cuffs, his doublet was sewn with brass medallions in the shape of dandelions, and ornamental goldwork crawled up his high leather boots to his thighs. Gloves of soft yellow suede were tucked into a belt of gilded rings, and his fingernails were enameled blue.

I mean, I love him already. Tiger Beat heartthrob material for sure (because remember, Dany is all of 14).

But you know, a girl has to play it cool. Wait for that first gift...oh! Girl doesn’t even have to wait for another chapter....lucky thing.

"Khaleesi," he cried, "I bring gifts and glad tidings. The Stormcrows are yours." A golden tooth gleamed in his mouth when he smiled. "And so is Daario Naharis!"

Alright, man. I see you. Go big or go home. I dig it. When I was fourteen I just wanted a boy to make me a mixed tape. Dany digs it, too. Wait, no she doesn’t...

Dany was dubious. If this Tyroshi had come to spy, this declaration might be no more than a desperate plot to save his head. "What do Prendahl na Ghezn and Sallor say of this?

Okay, fair point Dany. You are a khaleesi. Your standards are obviously higher than mine. Daario, your move:

"Little." Daario upended the sack, and the heads of Sallor the Bald and Prendahl na Ghezn spilled out upon her carpets. "My gifts to the dragon queen."

Viserion sniffed the blood leaking from Prendahl's neck, and let loose a gout of flame that took the dead man full in the face, blackening and blistering his bloodless cheeks. Drogon and Rhaegal stirred at the smell of roasted meat.

oh....well, that is off-putting, to say the least.

Right Dany?

Dany?

I said that is off-putting...right?

Dany laughed. She liked the swagger she saw in this Daario Naharis. "Draw your sword and swear it to my service."

Heyyyyyookay. So this guy is a sellsword, and he’s doing sellsword stuff. That’s all Dany sees in him, I’m sure. She wouldn’t actually, like...fall madly in love with a guy whose second attempt at a gift is this:

They watched Oznak zo Pahl dismount his white charger, undo his robes, pull out his manhood, and direct a stream of urine in the general direction of the olive grove where Dany's gold pavilion stood among the burnt trees. He was still pissing when Daario Naharis rode up, arakh in hand. "Shall I cut that off for you and stuff it down his mouth, Your Grace?" His tooth shone gold amidst the blue of his forked beard.

Right?

We’ll just have to see. (also, I forgot about that shiny gold tooth, but don’t fret, I’m pretty sure it comes up about as many times as his forked beard does)

#Daario Naharis #Daenerys x Daario #Book!daario #Dark dany #dark!dany #dark daenerys

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silvormoon · 4 years ago

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Soulmates

For Soulshipping week, here’s one for the prompt “Soulmates”. Past Life Juudai and Yubel go on a little adventure, and Juudai gets his fortune told.

The two children pressed themselves against the wall and tried to stifle their giggles as they waited. The sound of laughter and cheerful talk drew closer, and then five of the castle maids strolled past in a cluster, all of them chatting happily. One of them, at the fringes of the group, happened to glance to her side and noticed two people hiding in the shadows. She gave them a smile and a knowing wink before hurrying to catch up with her friends. Juudai grinned.

“Come on, let’s go,” he told his companion in a whisper, and the two of them scuttled down the hall in the opposite direction.

“We’re going to get in so much trouble for this,” Yubel whispered, but they were still smiling as they said it.

“I know,” Juudai whispered back, “but we’re doing it anyway, right?”

Yubel nodded.

Actually, what would probably happen would be that they would be scolded and obliged to do extra chores and lessons tomorrow, but Juudai didn’t mind. He had done so before and would doubtless do so again. Privately, he thought his parents approved, although custom dictated that they never actually say so. They probably would have worried more if Juudai had been the sort of boy who took orders meekly and did everything he was told. Someday he would be ruler of his kingdom, and would have to think for himself and know which advice was worth taking and which should be disregarded. Right now, he knew which rules were fairly arbitrary and therefore breakable, like, “You must be in bed by nine” or “you must not play stickball with the serving boys,” and which rules would have serious repercussions if he disobeyed. He would break the former on occasion, but never the latter.

Today, the rule was, “You should not skip classes to sneak into town” and Juudai and Yubel were intent on breaking it. They had arranged for Juudai’s history professor, who was also the castle librarian, to be called away by a small problem among the stacks. While he’d been away, Juudai had slipped out of the room and went on the run. Now he and his partner in crime were on their way to the kitchen, where they knew they could sneak out through the back door through the herb garden.

When they arrived, the castle cook gave them an amused, indulgent look, much the same way the maid had.

“You two scamps again?” she said. “You should be at your lessons, your highness, and you, Yubel, should be at your training.”

“I know,” said Juudai, “but the maids said there’s a caravan in town today selling stuff from the Saffron Empire, and I really want to see. There’s supposed to be dancers and jugglers and stuff and... and everything!”

“Well, I’d like to see them too, but I have my work to get on with the same as you,” she said sternly. Then her face relaxed into a smile. “Oh, well. You’ll be a grown man soon enough, and there won’t be so many chances for you to go out and enjoy yourself.” She turned back to whatever she’d been stirring and said, “Not my job to keep tabs on you two. If your teachers can’t keep tabs on you, that’s their problem.”

Juudai grinned. He caught Yubel’s hand and the two of them darted through the busy kitchen together. Along the way, they each acquired an almond bun, courtesy of one of the junior cooks. Munching happily, they made their way through the fragrant herb garden.

“I guess she’s right that we’re going to have to stop doing this someday,” said Yubel. “I mean, you’re fifteen already. In three more years you’ll be a man. You won’t be taking any more classed then so we won’t be able to skip them.” Juudai shrugged. Three years sounded like a long time to him.

“It’ll be okay,” he said. “Once I’m grown up they won’t be watching me so closely all the time. I’ll still be able to get out and do stuff, at least until they decide to make me king. That’s when I’ll really have to start behaving myself.” He made a face. He hoped his father would stay hale and hearty for a long time. Being a prince was fine by Juudai, but being a king seemed like a lot more work. The idea still seemed to be troubling Yubel.

“I’ll be grown up soon, too, though,” they said. “I’ll have to start doing a lot more work around the castle, then.”

“You’ll work for me, though,” said Juudai encouragingly. “Where I go, you go.”

“Are you sure?” Yubel asked. “You’ll be able to choose anyone you want - all the best people in the kingdom are going to want to work for you.”

“I’ll always choose you,” Juudai promised. “Don’t worry - you and I are always going to be together!”

Yubel smiled. “I sure hope so.”

“No doubt about it,” Juudai promised. “Now, come on. We don’t have all day, and I want to see those jugglers!”

They darted out the delivery gate. A guard there made a half-hearted effort to call them back, but Juudai just stuck out his tongue and kept running. They continued their wild dash for a few blocks, less because they were worried about being chased and more because the buildings closest to the palace were mostly stately homes of nobles and rich merchants, and did not offer a lot to interest a couple of active teenagers. They didn’t slow down until they passed the next gate, which led into the business district. Juudai raised the hood of his cloak. Most of his subjects were friendly, good-hearted people, but his parents had drilled into him how important it was not to flaunt his status as prince in public. All it would take was one bad apple attacking him and the fate of the entire kingdom would change. Yubel would defend him to the death, of course, but...

I don’t want that to happen. I want Yubel and me both to stay safe!

The regular marketplace activities were going on. Juudai had intended to walk straight through to the main attraction, but he couldn’t exist stopping to look at a few of his favorite shops along the way. They charted a zigzag course, stopping here to look in at the gadgets on display in an artificer’s shop, pausing there to admire the rainbow of colored cloth at the drapers, lingering outside a bakery to breathe in the smell of fresh bread. They paused outside the flower shop, not because Juudai had any interest in flowers, but because Yubel loved them. They were so taken by a white bloom with purple flecks on its petals that Juudai bought it for them. Yubel tucked it proudly behind their ear and preened while Juudai made a show of admiring the effect.

But in the end, the two of them couldn’t resist hurrying to the main market square where the real action was. The Saffron Empire was a long way from Juudai’s kingdom, and traders from that realm only arrived here once or twice a year. It was always a big event when they arrived, with their exotic spices, their distinctly patterned cloth, and their tales of faraway places. There was always a lot of competition to get hold of whatever they brought with them, and Juudai hoped that he and Yubel weren’t too late to get any of the good stuff. Juudai had saved some of his allowance for just such an occasion, and he was hoping to find something that would make it worth giving up all the all the other fun things he could have bought with it.

“Wow, look at all this,” he said, as he took in the caravan wagons with their bright bunting. He knew that while on the road they purposely made themselves look drab to avoid attracting bandits, but they made up for it when they reached town by covering themselves with flags, banners, ribbons, and shining brass bells that set up a constant tinkling in the breeze. Juudai turned this way and that, trying to take in every flash of color. “Where should we go first?”

“I think they’re selling knives over there,” said Yubel.”And that one has jewelry, look! The colors on those enameled bracelets are so bright! I wonder how they do it?”

Yubel ended up buying a small wrist cuff worked with a design of red flowers and gold bees against a backdrop of twining vines. Juudai admired a selection of knives and other hardware, finally settling on a belt buckle in the shape of a dragon. Then they wandered around a bit, looking at this and that, occasionally chatting with a merchant but mostly just moving on. They bought some sort of grilled cakes filled with unfamiliar flavors and nibbled them while they watched a pair of tumblers put on a show. They picked up a few more little trinkets - a bowl painted with leaping hares that Juudai took a shine to, a flute made of wood and animal horn that enticed Yubel, a silk shawl Juudai thought would make a good gift for his mother - and then wondered what else they might find to do. The day was getting on, and soon they would be expected back in the palace for dinner.

“Just one more stall,” Juudai decided. “Where should we go?”

“Um...” Yubel looked uncertain. They turned around, trying to find somewhere they hadn’t been yet.

“You haven’t been to my booth yet,” said a pleasant voice.

Juudai turned to see that a woman dressed from head to toe in blue was watching him with a bright and knowing gaze. Her face was partially hidden by a veil that made her eyes stand out even more in comparison.

“Who are you?” he asked.

“I am this caravan’s... your language hasn’t got a word for it. ‘Seer’ might do. I am the Lady Who Looks in the Water, and I can tell you your future if you like.”

Juudai frowned, puzzled. “What do you look in the water for?”

“Because water goes everywhere. It is part of all of us. It is full of life. If you know how to look at it the right way, you can see many things in it,” she said. “Come. Two copper coins, and I will tell you things worth knowing.”

Juudai and Yubel gave each other a look that said, “Here’s something worth doing!” There were a lot of magicians in Juudai’s kingdom, but none quite like this. It was an adventure, and Juudai was always up for an adventure.

“Sure,” he said.

“Right this way, then.”

The lady led him inside one of the wagons, and he and Yubel followed eagerly. It was a tight fit, so Yubel volunteered to wait outside until Juudai had finished having his fortune told. That was probably the right choice. A table had been set up near the door, with just enough space for a little stool where Juudai could sit down, and a second, more comfortable seat for the lady herself. Behind her hung a blue curtain, but through the gaps Juudai thought he could see a little bunk and a hint of some shelving, which must have been part of her living space. The table itself contained only a pale blue bowl filled nearly to the brim with water.

“Now, your payment,” she said.

Juudai handed over his coins, and she made them vanish with professional speed.

“So. We shall see what we can see,” she said. “Is there anything you would like to know? Your future career? How to obtain a fortune? Or perhaps the name of your soulmate?” She gave him a wink.

“Can you really find all that?” Juudai asked.

“Sometimes, yes,” she said. “Often the water does what it likes. But I guarantee you will see something, and whatever you see, it will be the truth.”

“Okay,” said Juudai. “Show me.”

“Give me your hand, then.”

He did as he was told. The lady took his hand and guided him to touch the surface of the water with a fingertip. It rippled... and went on rippling, much longer than normal physics dictated that it should. Curious, Juudai leaned forward, trying to get a better view of this phenomenon.

He nearly jerked back again in surprise. Somehow, though, he couldn’t seem to take his eyes off what he was seeing. There were images in the bowl, vague, as though they were only reflections, but still comprehensible. He saw an island, bright and sunny, with a volcano smoking at the center of it. People in strange clothes were there, busily taking notes while a man who looked a great deal like Juudai’s own history professor lectured to them all. Then the image shifted, and Juudai saw a figure in dark armor standing before a legion of monsters. Another shift, and now Juudai could see something that was both like and unlike his own face: older, the lines of it sharpened by time and experience, and his eyes weren’t the friendly brown of Juudai’s old, but rather, shining a mismatched orange and teal...

...and then there was Yubel’s face.

“Juudai? What are you looking at in there?”

Juudai looked up to see his friend leaning over his shoulder, trying to peer into the water.

“My future, I think,” he said. “Not that it made a lot of sense.”

“The future often doesn’t, until you see it,” said the lady. She turned to Yubel. “And would you like to try as well?”

Yubel shook their head. “I’d rather go home. I don’t mind getting a scolding from Doctor Chronos, but I don’t want a lecture from the king if I’m not there to wait at table.”

“Oh, darn, you’re right,” said Juudai. “They’ll skin me alive if I’m late to dinner tonight. Thanks, Water Lady, but I have to go!”

He waved goodbye before darting out of the wagon and back into the street. He and Yubel began jogging towards the castle.

“So,” said Yubel slyly, “did you see your soulmate?”

“Don’t think so,” said Juudai. “That’s okay, though. I don’t need a fortune teller to tell me what I already know.”

“What’s that?” Yubel asked.

“That you and I are going to be together forever,” said Juudai.

“As long as we live,” Yubel agreed.

Juudai nodded. That was about all anyone could hope for. Still, he thought, remembering what he’d seen in the bowl, maybe there was life after this one. Some of the court wizards said there was, and Juudai didn’t know enough to disagree with them.

If I have another life, I’m sure Yubel will be there too. They’ll follow me anywhere.

And with that reassuring thought in mind, he hurried home to dinner.

#yugioh gx #soulshipping week #soulshipping #yuuki juudai #yubel #fanfic

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crystalgirl259 · 4 years ago

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The Flame and the Dragon Ch3

Chapter 3: The Library

Far off across the rolling hills and lush countryside, Kai caught sight of the woods, trees alight with leaves of red, brown, orange, and gold, like blazing fire. They were some of his favorite colors. The cliffside rumored to lead out of the valley and past an old castle that had been abandoned for a little over a century, towering over the green and flaming colored landscape. It was almost like it was beckoning the dreamer to join its life outside the sheltered ways of the town.

A smile played across Kai's face.

One day he was getting out of this lame provincial life, and he will never look back. Soon a small grey stone building came into view and both brothers smiled as they strolled up the stone path and through the small oakwood doors. Despite all he had seen in his youth of traveling with his family, Kai found no place more magnificent than Ignacia's library. The building's walls and shelves were lined with books from ceiling to floor like an enormous labyrinth.

Some were so high that tall ladders were placed on casters at different intervals.

Though small, books were everywhere and these were no ordinary books. These books were bound in leather or velvet with strong locks and clasps of brass and silver. Their spines were studded with jewels that glowed in the pale light of dozens of candles hanging from the enormous iron-clad chandeliers hanging overhead. The floors were polished wood. In the center of the room and the labyrinth of shelves sat several desks carved from wood with matching chairs.

At the head of the library stood a much more ornamental desk with vines engraved into the side of the wooden slab.

Sitting behind it with an eccentric smile, an elderly man rose to his feet, a long grey mustache falling from his face while his rich brown eyes gleamed from behind a pair with thin black glasses. When he saw them he gave them a friendly smile.

"I was wondering when you boys would arrive." He greeted on a loud, unusual accent. "I'd almost given up waiting."

"Sorry, Dr. Saunders." Kai smiled politely, "Just here to return the books I borrowed." He explained digging through his bag while Lloyd scurried off to find something to read.

"Finished already?" Dr. Saunders asked in feigned surprise.

"I couldn't put it down." The brunette replied with a chuckle, handing him the two books before strolling over and scanning the shelves. "I don't suppose you have anything new do you?"

"Not since yesterday, I'm afraid."

"Alright, then I'll just take this one." Kai requested before picking up a leather-bound book.

"That one?" Dr. Saunders repeated, his fingers dancing over the gold lettering. "Correct me if I'm wrong, but you've checked this one out at least once a month since you moved here, haven't you?"

"Can't help it, it's my favorite." Kai blushed sheepishly. "No matter how many times I read it, it leaves me on the edge of my seat, the ending makes my heart race and I continue getting frustrated when I turn to the last page and I can never read the end; I really wanna know what happens." Kai voiced, unintentionally expressing his obsession. Dr. Saunders's grin couldn't get any wider. The librarian placed a comforting hand on the teen's shoulder before placing his favorite book in his hands.

Kai blinked in confusion but before he could voice his question, Dr. Saunders answered.

"If you like it all that much, it's yours." He said and Kai's eyes nearly bulged out of his skull. He opened his mouth to protest but the words died in this throat. "I insist." Dr. Saunders answered with a wink before the boy could protest. "My job is to make sure each one of these lovely books finds the right person, and if you're not the one for this story, I'm a blind old fool." He laughed. Unsure what else to say, Kai said the only thing that came to mind.

"Thank you! Thank you so much!" He beamed widely. The librarian smiled before starting in remembrance and diving behind his desk.

"I almost forgot." He pulled out a large folder tied with a red string from beneath the mess of his desk, before holding the familiar object out to the brunette. "You left this here yesterday, I couldn't put them down." He grinned as Kai's eyes lit up in recognition and he snatched his folder away and hugged it to his chest.

"Sorry!" The flustered teen mumbled in apology. "They're not very good, most of them are just drafts and such–"

"Kai," A single word from the librarian silenced him, and he looked up to meet impressed and encouraging eyes. "They're brilliant, even for 'drafts'; I've read so many books and I've never seen anything half as good as some of the things your imagination has conjured up."

"Uh, thanks."

"Honestly, Kai, what the heck are you and your siblings still doing in this backward town?" The librarian asked. The question was rhetorical, but no one could mistake the seriousness in Dr. Saunders's question. "You three have so much talent and so much potential it's such a shame you can't exercise your talents at a more credential location." He sighed in disappointment. Kai blinked, then nodded at the compliment.

"We're working on it." He replied. "Nya's hoping to win the Inventor's Contest this year, if this pulls through we might finally have enough to move."

"I'm surprised it's taken you so long." The librarian smiled. "Your parents left you everything."

"Yeah, but that's our savings, it's more than enough to live on but not move away and continue living in a new place." Lloyd chimed in, carrying a small stack of children's books of his own and placing them on the table.

"I tell you boys this place has changed since Vincent passed; FSM blesses his soul." Dr. Saunders sighed sadly. "I knew it was only a matter of time, since no one from that family seems to take after him, and then Morro rolls in–" He continued, only to stop when Kai suddenly growled under his breath at the man's name. Dr. Saunders decided not to press the issue anymore. It was true though. For the past year after their father passed away, the three remaining Smiths had put away their parent's inheritance and started saving their earnings until they could afford to leave.

But the shop hadn't been doing as well as it had when Vincent was the Duke.

Nya, being the overly ambitious and determined sibling, was dead-set on winning the fair this year. Then they could move to a place where they could finally pursue their dreams. Dr. Saunders finished checking Lloyd's books and placed them all in a bag for the little one to carry. Lloyd quickly followed Kai who paused in the doorway to let his little brother pass. He gave the librarian another smile and wave before running to catch up with his little brother...

#ninjago #ninjago zane #ninjago cole #ninjago kai #ninjago lloyd #ninjago nya #ninjago jay #The Flame and the Dragon #lavashipping

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mystique426 · 3 years ago

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DID - Chapter One: Game, Set. . .

"Checkmate." The grizzled minotaur sat back and crossed his arms, a friendly grin stretching across his greying snout. The elven gentleman across from him seemed shocked for a moment before also leaning back with a smile.

"I'll have to admit, I'm impressed. Not many others can last more than twenty turns against me, let alone wipe the floor with me like that," he said, grabbing the pint from beside the Dragonchess board and taking a large gulp of its contents. "Where did you learn those skills, my friend?"

"There was a friend of mine who was good at Dragonchess. I took her up on her offer to teach me one day," the minotaur said, reflecting back on fond memories. Suddenly, there was another voice beside him; it was smooth and regal, with an air of importance.

"Well, I hope your mentor was as good as mine," this new voice said. Its source was a tiefling man with pale navy blue skin and bright white slicked back between bone-white horns topped with caps - one silver, and one hammered iron, each one intricately inlaid with gold - and decorated with garnet-encrusted hoops and intricately carved clasps. He had a simple saphire stud earring in his right ear. He wore a simple eyepatch over his left eye, and his leather armor was dyed a navy blue color. A pair of leathery wings rested half-open against his back, and a set of twin tails could be seen twitching playfully along the ground. "Sorry to interrupt your chat, but I would love to play a game against the old brute here. No offense."

The minotaur took a moment to answer, eyeing the creature in front of him. This man wasn't the strangest thing he'd ever seen by far, but the intrigue he felt couldn't be suppressed.

"Sure, I'll play against you," he paused briefly. "But, only if you tell me your name first." The tiefling took a step back from the booth and gave a deep flourishing bow, extending his wings and right arm.

"Nethrei Creed, at your service." His single glowing orange eye met the minotaur's once again.

"Ar'Tarian, but my friends just call me Ar'T." The old minotaur turned to the elven gentleman. "Do you mind?"

"Not at all," he responded, standing from his seat. "I should get going anyway; it's nearly dark, and the missus will be looking for me." He made his way out of the noisy bar, and Nethrai took his seat across from Ar'T. The game began simple enough; it seemed the two were evenly matched.

"I suppose I should be honest here; I didn't simply come over here to play a game with you," Nethrei admitted, delicately placing his pawn into place. "No, I'm after some information, and I believe you can help me."

"What could I possibly know that would help you?" Ar'T asked, sliding his knight to defend.

"I was told you might know something about a mercenary band in this city. . .the Dragon's Wrath?" Nethrei pulled a slip of paper from his pocket and slid it across the table; on it was accurately drawn the symbol of a hammer with horns protruding from either side.

"Where did you hear that name?" Ar'Tarian asked as his furry eyebrows shot up in surprise.

Nethrei chuckled softly as his bishop pushed up. "Let's say for now a little birdie flew by and whispered it in my ear."

Ar'T hesitated and sacrificed a pawn to Nethrei. "What did you want to know?"

"I'm looking for a certain someone among their ranks by the name of Vylhana, a half-elven caster. I heard she was quite skilled with her magic, and I was hoping to learn a thing or two from her," Nethrei explained. "I was told you were quite familiar with the more. . .prominent members."

"I haven't spoken to Vylhana in nearly ten years," Ar'T said flatly, trying to ignore the memories bubbling up in the back of his mind. "I don't recommend you do, either. She's not someone who can be trusted."

"Oh? How interesting. . .I suppose my sources must be outdated," sighed Nethrei as he confidently pushed his queen forward. "From what I understood, you were rather comfortable with the top brass. What changed?"

"I. . .I'm not sure," said Ar'T sadly, absentmindedly moving his rook. "I wasn't there when it happened."

"When what happened?" eagerly pressed the tiefling. Ar'T remained silent, staring at the board in front of him. Nethrei sighed and moved his queen once more.

"That will be checkmate, I'm afraid," he said, disappointment dripping from his words. "I did hope you could be more useful to me." He stood and began to walk away when Ar'T reached out and grabbed his arm to stop him.

"I'll tell you, if you wouldn't mind coming with me. There's something I need to show you to tell this story," Ar'T said slowly, standing from the booth. Nethrei smiled and turned to face the minutaor towering several feet above him.

"You have yourself a deal, my friend."

#Descent into Destruction #chapter one #game set #Nethrei Creed #Ar'Tarian #D&D #dungeons and dragons #story #creative writing

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tolkien-in-beleriand · 4 years ago

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The Chronicles of Iniamar - Chapter One

Demetria was a normal village girl, except that no one is really normal. Not anywhere and certainly not in the Buruma village. Nevertheless she did not astound more than anyone would astound just for being. She was happy, funny, full of friends, intelligent and hardworking and of course, full of opinions. The problem with opinionated people is that they almost always are convinced that they are right and forget that other people may have opinions of their own and that they too believe to be right. Haryn was another one full of opinions and Demi never liked Haryn. She found him muzzy, dull, rude, and obviously too cocky, thinking that his opinions were always the truth. But he almost never spoke and when he did it was to swear and give orders and although he was not her boss, she had to comply because she worked in Josh’s tavern and if anyone asked her for a black lapo it was her job to serve. And Haryn was always asking for a pint of something. Once she saw him chug a hornmud of pure alcolino. Maybe if he was sober for long enough he would be aware of how repugnant he was, so he prefered to be always drunk, she thought. Either way Josh liked him – even though none could understanding why – and said that he was an excellent warrior and a very wise man. Demi thought that Josh was beginning to lost his wit because of old age.

Josh was her adoptive father. Due to an accident, that each time that was told had a different nature, she had lost her parents as a baby and Josh welcomed and nourished her. She helped in the tavern since her 14th birthday, before that he never allowed her to work. He said she had to nurture her mind. So he taught her how to read, write and think, although he always said that one can not teach another to think, but could offer him the tools to do so. Some days he would tell Demi that she thought too much but she always could see behind the angry words the satisfaction in his eyes.

The love that Josh devoted to reading was only surpassed by his pupil and even though scrolls were quite rare in the village – regarded as a relic found only with merchants that passed through or in the houses of the most wealthy individuals – Josh always managed to get their hands in some new manuscript with wonderful stories about fey beings and men of the blood of dragons. These were her favourite stories but she read them all including the most boring ones, like those that explained the position of the main villages and castles. Josh said it was always good to know where things are, both to look for it or to avoid it. “No one wants to be face to face with a dragon by chance, eh?” Well, she would not mind. She always wanted to be friends with a dragon.

Her friends in the village always complained of their parents at some point and sometimes even though it could sound indifferent and wicked, Demi felt lucky that her parents died, because that led her to be raised by Josh. He was amazing, intelligent and has always been good to her. He never even mentioned the subject of marriage, for which she was very grateful, and whenever she saw those dark eyes in that kind and thick bearded face she could not help but smile and feel a sense of security. Haryn used to say that it was because she was stupid, since no one is never safe, but she do not pay attention to his pessimism and bad humor. He annoyed her in all possible ways, and yet, she knew that she could always rely on him and that he would never hurt her. Not because he liked her, no! But because of his friendship with Josh that probably compelled him to protect what he called “fire-haired brat”. Once Moren spilled a black lapo mug on Demi dress, smearing it all, and before she could recover from the surprise and accept the apology from the baker, Haryn was already going up against him. Poor Moren did not show up at the tavern for one week and only came back after she reassured him that she was not in any way angry and that Haryn would not bother him anymore.

I do not know if it was because of his angry “friend” or because of the sympathy for Josh, but everyone always treated Demi with great kindness and respect. She always thought they were luck to live in a quiet village like Buruma as she had heard uncanny stories from others neighboring villages. She had many friends there, but her two inseparable companions were Artur and Bernardo. Artur rarely entered the tavern because he was too big and as the establishment was always packed he could not fit in there if he wanted. Artie worked with the blacksmith, pulling his big gear, but at the end of his shift he always passed by the back door of the tavern and Demi always took a little break to talk to him. In their day offs they often get together, the three of them.

Bernardo, as Demi, worked in the tavern and managed to serve customers quite well now, even though he was very clumsy in his first days of work, because he was unable to hold the trays with his big paws. However now he was the most skilled bear to serve tables in the area. Artur wanted a job in the tavern too, but the experience did not go well. At the end of the day he had broken two tables and had kicked a merchant who had hit his hips to request another lapo pint. When Josh told him that unfortunately he could not work there, he said: “Good! You could break a leg in this tiny place”. The tavern was not so small, but Artur was the biggest horse that anyone there had ever seen. To climb the stairs to go to the house on the top floor was not an option to him either.

Bernardo was also as big as a brown bear could be, but he was skillful enough to not let his size get in the way and everybody adored him because he was an inexhaustible source of stories and anecdotes.

When the merchants come to the village, Josh closes the tavern for a whole week, since there is always all kinds of drinks in the fair’s pavilion and then Artur, Bernardo and Demi have all the freedom and money they could want.

In the second week Josh’s tavern would reopen, since the merchants loved its lapo, both black and gold, and usually in that week they profited enough for a whole year. The merchants use to be generous with their money when it came to a good drink.

The merchants passed by once every six months and stayed for two weeks in the village. There were two parties to celebrate what they called Fiftday. The opening ceremony, which took place on the day they arrived, and the closing ceremony, held on the day before they left. Anyway to Demi and her friends every day were party day and they enjoyed every day of the Fiftday. The next one would be in five weeks and they were all excited. Artur wanted a golden cloak to wear at the opening party and Demi was trying to convince him that a golden cloak would not suit his reddish and bright fur but he did not want to hear any of that and she certainly would not give up.

Bernardo was thinking to wear a black leather vest with white fringes and Demi thought it would suit him very well. Demi would wear her white dress with red branches on the hem and on the tip off the long sleeves, with a thin red dragon leather belt as she would not want to be too much. Her hair would be braided with white leather straps because she always thought the white fall right in the middle of all the redness of her hair. She would be pretty for sure.

Demi heard that there would be more than two minstrels this time, which made her even more anxious. The minstrels were her favourite attraction, along with the storytellers. In her secret dreams she always imagined herself married to one of the kingdom’s poetic singers but she never told this to anyone. That is because they would laugh at her and she hated that. However her more urgent concern until the Fiftnight was to change Artie’s mind about the color of his cloak as she needed to sew it soon. She actually thought that she had found a way to convince him.

The day when she would put her plan into action had come. Josh was staring at her with droll and inquisitive eyes. He knew that she hated golden because the contrast with her bright red hair made her look like some kind of what she called tainted flame. And when he asked her what was a tainted flame she simply answered “It doesn’t matter what it is, what is important is that it is what I see in the brass when I wear golden outfits”. In that day she hoped the sunshine outside would accentuate the absurdity of that combination.

– Demi!

It was Artie’s voice at the window.

– Artie! You came earlier today?

– No. What dress is that?

– It is a gift from last year’s birthday.

– I have never seen it. You are marvelous wearing it ant that is precisely the golden that I want for my cloak.

– What? Are you blind? This dress is not anything good on me because red does not suit golden!

– That is what you say. To me that is perfect, like hay and water. It is a matter of taste.

– Taste! No! Unless you want to seem ridiculous.

– I do not care about your opinion on this.

– Please, Artie. I am saying this for your sake.

– But I want a golden cloak. I have already bought the fabric. There is no turning back.

– Ok. I will make you a golden cloak, but not for the party, alright?

– Why not for the party?

– Because I want all of us wearing white.

– Bernie will not wear white.

– His vest has white fringes.

Artie was pensive.

– But I do not have white fabric and I do not want to spend more money with that.

– I’ll buy it for you.

– And you swear that I will have my golden cloak too?

– Yes, I promise.

– Can I wear it in the closure party?

– We will see.

– Alright, then. White it is.

– Thank you, Artie. You are the best. I have to go back now. See you tomorrow.

– Go, ungrateful brat. Preventing me from wearing what I want just because you do not like gold. I like, gee.

She could still hear Artie muttering as she walked away, but it didn’t matter anymore. He would not wear the golden cloak and she would not be in that hideous dress another second.

Demi’s time in the coming weeks was divided between bartending in the tavern, sewing outfits for her friends and reading a particularly annoying parchment about all the mountains north of the Great Fountain. However always she noticed that Josh was not watching she would change her lecture to a scroll about the story of the first men of the dragon blood. The fact that she never really knew if it had truly happened or were just stories made her even more fascinated. But how could it have happened? Is it possible that the dragons would submit to an agreement with men? And why should they? The scroll said to be by necessity, although it did not explain of what kind, but she read others parchments that affirmed that a man threatened the dragons. However, Demi could not believe that any threat could frighten all the dragons, especially the Great Ulmur.

With her mind busy with all these questions, Demi did not realize that she was murmuring and that Josh had come near her so she almost fell off her chair when he said:

– Ulmur could be tall and strong, but I doubt he was a mountain.

– Josh! Are you trying to scare me to death?

– No, but it will hurt you to finish the parchment about the mountains first? It is not so bad.

– But it’s so boring and useless.

– I do not doubt that learning about Ulmur’s secret thoughts is useful, but it is much more likely, lets say, that you have to face the northern mountains than Ulmur and his kin.

– Not necessarily. If anything steer me north, who could guarantee I would not find Ulmur?

– I do.

– And how could you be so sure?

– Because Ulmur is dead!

– Is he though?

– What do you mean? Of course he is!

From the tavern they could hear the sound of a mug breaking and Bernie’s growl.

– Go, leave this and go to work. You have read too much for today. Poor Bernie must be overwrought.

Without wasting any more seconds she went downstairs. She liked her work and enjoyed herself in the tavern and, as she could not read about the men of the dragon blood, she preferred Haryn’s ugly face to the northern mountains’ parchment.

When she arrived downstairs Bernie had already removed the pieces of the broken mug, but he still had an angry face.

– What happened, Bernie?

– How would I know? I was serving a table and suddenly a mug broke on the counter for no reason whatsoever.

– It was the wind – said Haryn.

– It was no fucking wind, because there is no wind! - Said Bernie angry.

– Maybe it was you, Harryn.

– Maybe, but you will never know, will you, brat?

Turning her back to Haryn, Demi tried to calm down her friend:

– There is no problem, Bernie, it was just a mug. Let it be.

– I just do not like this kind of thing. It has to have an explanation, things do not break without a reason. I do not like this, not at all.

– Me too, Bernie, but to get upset will not help it.

Still grumbling Bernie went to serve some tables while Demi was in the counter. She hated to be responsible for the counter because it was were Haryn always was. But she had no choice since Josh was upstairs and only would be back later.

Even if he annoyed her, Demi never ceased to be curious about Haryn. What would he have done to win Josh’s trust? How could he be a wise and a warrior if the only thing he does is drink in the tavern? Although, he usually disappears for a few days from time to time, even though there was no war going on, nothing to fight, nowhere to be a warrior. How old was he? Demi had no idea about any of this and despite hating the way he despised her and the rude way he answered her questions, she never gave up trying to figure out whatever she could about him. She would not ask him any direct question about that though. Demi thought she would have more chance of success if she disguised her interests, so she decided to ask him about the men of dragon blood, so perhaps she could get some information about it too.

– Hey, Haryn! What do you know about the men of dragon blood?

He always looked at her like someone who wanted to kill her just for daring to open her mouth before answering.

– That they do not exist anymore.

He always answered though, even if it was a stupid answer.

– Everybody knows that. But you should know something about when they were alive. Josh says you are so wise.

It seemed that this time he would not answer, but after spending a good few minutes contemplating Demi he started to talk:

“The men of dragon blood were a very powerful kin, which does not exist anymore for over 300 years, more or less. Millenia ago, they mingled their blood with dragons blood through an agreement never revealed and a secret ritual. Shaian and Ulmur were representatives of the two races that started the union, which had to be renewed every thousand years, because the power of the dragon’s blood weakened with time in the dirty blood of men. Something went wrong in the Last Renovation and the human representative of the ritual was murdered. No one knows the name of that human, as though it was the reign of King Tomus, he was found dead in his castle and lore said that the body found was a woman. It is supposed to be his queen, but no one was ever really interested in this matter.

Haryn paused to take a sip of his hornmug and Demi asked more questions.

– But who would want to murder the men of dragon blood? And why? Who could want that? And the dragons, what they did?

– They did nothing, what would they do? There was nothing to be done. The dragons hid in fear of being murdered and waited to see what this creature would do. However nothing has been done and nothing happened. Then the reign needed a new king and a scribe loyal to Tomus took over as king. He was the only survivor with acceptable knowledge to rule. With the shock of seeing the entire royal family assassinated there were no objections to that. Thus began a new royal line. Not nearly as noble as the previous one and with only one-tenth of the longevity of those dragon’s blood, but it is what we have got.

– But who? Who would be willing and able to kill all the line? And why?

– Pshaw! No one knows that, brat! When Auri, the Scribe, took the kingdom he said he would be watching, but luckily for him nothing happened until his death. I would like to see what Auri feather hand would do against Tomus’ killer. Ha! I really wanted to see! Many people has gone missing since all this happened, although nothing that deserved much attention. Some people argue that that evil creature is still amongst us and up to something, but if that is true or not I do not know and frankly do not care.

– Do not care or is afraid? – Demi said mischievously.

His eyes flashed dangerously towards her and this time he did not answer. None of what he had told was big news for Demi, however she needed to beat around the bush to ask what she really wanted to know.

– Wow, how do you know all this? Did you read?

– I have read.

– When you were young?

– When I could.

– How old are you?

– Older than you – said Haryn getting up and leaving. At the door he shouted: – Tell Josh to meet me at the village’s entrance in an hour, would you?

– He is busy, I do not know if he can make it.

– Just give him the message!

– Hey, wait! Just one more question!

He stopped impatiently.

– Yes?

– Why the dragons did not make a new agreement with Auri?

Haryn stared at her for a good while before he said:

– Because they did not like his hair colour – and left slamming the door.

This is chapter 1 of one of my books (continue under read more) and I’m putting it on here in the hopes that someone will read and give me some feedback.

Also you all know about my financial problems so if you can share this with my Patreon link I would really appreciate. There are some public stuff on there so if you have the time please have a look and consider helping.

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CHAPTER 4 (Patrons only)

The weeks before Fitftday passed quickly to Demi with all the sewing she needed to do, all the trouble convincing Artie to not wear the golden cloak in the closure party and her working in the tavern. She did not see the time passing. The fact Haryn was absent also helped that because without his scowl around the environment became much more pleasant in Demi’s opinion. Two days before the Fiftday at the end of her shift Moren told that at least two storytellers would narrate the story of the Last Renewal and finally reveal the secret ritual of the dragons. Every Fiftday at least five storytellers and even some minstrels show up clamming to reveal the dragon’s secret ritual and everyone goes to hear, including Josh and Haryn. Every year Demi always choose her favourite version and then hit the scrolls trying to confirm its veracity, but this never resulted in any discovery and so Haryn would always call here a moron for even thinking about believing all that bullshit. Her favourite version was the one told last year: the dragon swallowed the representative of men and then spit him in a burst of fire. Demi was anxious to see what crazy story they would invent this time.

In the next day Josh dismissed her from work to finish Bernie’s and Artie’s outfits in time. Bernie’s had to climb the stair at least two times to prove his vest, until he was completely satisfied. As always, he thanked Demi with a big hug and a touch on her nose with his snout. She loved it. Now Artie was not so easy. As he could not go up and Lot, the blacksmith, did not allow him to go to the tavern during working hours, Demi had to take his cloak to him. Fortunately the cloak was perfect and she did not have to go all the way again. Like her dress, Artie’s cloak was white with red and black branches on the fringes.

– How did you like it, Artie?

– Wow! Oh mine! Wow! – Was all that Artie could say as he turned to all sides and tried a quick trot to see how the cover would be at the wind.

– I’m happy you liked it. See, now you have this lovely cloak, the cream-colored one to the closure and the golden outfit to wear whenever you want.

– My golden cloak is already done?

– No, not yet. I prioritized tomorrow’s outfits, but it is almost done.

– Can I stop by to see it latter?

– Sure, Artie. Now let me take the cloak back home. I still have to make some adjustments at the clothes to the closure party and Lot is already trowing a sulk, look.

– Sure… see you later. – said Artie as he approached Demi, who took his cloak and went back home prancing. In the distance you could already see the large pavilion, almost ready for the merchants. Demi could not imagine greater happiness than the one she was feeling at the moment.

On the night that preceded the start of Fiftday the tavern had always a smaller movement and at eight o’clock Josh had already closed the doors and left to help in the final preparations of the pavilion. Demi, Artie e Bernie gathered in the shed at the bottom of the tavern which, for the next two weeks would be Artie’s and Bernie’s house. All Fiftday they did that, it was easier that way. Demi, after making sure that the outfits were impeccable, went down to arrange the last details with her friends. As she was leaving for the side door she collided with a large and strong figure. Before she could scream he clapped her mouth and said:

– No screaming.

It was Haryn. Stupid and muffler Haryn. Demi’s heart was racing and beyond scared she was very, very angry.

– Are you crazy? How could you think you could do this, you moron?

– Do what, exactly? Open and close doors and pass by it? I think so.

– You damn-ass! You almost scared me to death!

– Seriously? I thought you were brave and were not afraid of anything. – He said in a mocking voice.

– You are a jerk, a fucking jerk! And I will tell Josh about this.

– Uh! Now I am scared. Where is he? I need to talk to him.

Demi thought about not answering, to turn her back and pretend he did not exist, but she knew that if she did that Josh would be disappointed. So she took a deep breath and reply:

– He is in the pavilion.

Haryn turned around and left, without a word, and she still shaken by the scare yelled:

– Why did you come back, huh? Nobody misses you. You should never return.

He stopped, gave that hideous grin, and replied:

– Missed you, brat. – And he kept walking.

Demi could not believe the audacity of that hateful man. She would talk to Josh. At least he would have to tell her why she had to tolerate Haryn. He owe me at least that. Her blood was yet boiling with fury, so it took some while before she left and went to the shed to meet her friends.

The Fiftday finally arrived. Demi woke up anxious and happy and chose a light dress for the day, it was hot. Josh had already left, so she ran to wake up Artie and Bernie, but both were already up and cheerful.

– It is so damn hot! I will not wear clothes during the day so my party outfit will stand out even more at night. – said Bernie.

– So cocky, Bernie.

– Gee! I can use my golden cloak, can I, Demi?

– No, Artie. It is warm and in this sun you will blind people with that thing.

– I do not understand all this nagging about my cape.

– I am not nagging, I only think that it does not suit you.

– After the Fiftday I will wear it every day just to taunt you.

– I know.

– If you have already finished to pick on each other, can we go?

– Sure!

When the three friends arrived at the pavilion the stone clock on the center had not marked ten am yet, but there were many people and more coming. Many merchants have had their tents set up and many more would come.

Bernie was already standing on the front of a honey tent and Demi and Artie knew he would spend quite some time there.

Come on, Artie, let’s take a look in those fabrics, if Bernie need some money he will find us.

And so they spent the morning. They lunched in the food tents because it was the only chance they had to eat typical food from distant places. There were fruits only found in the north and there were strange meats. But all of it was delicious.

In the afternoon they continued their reckoning of the tents and its spices and other goods. One of those had a collection of stones of different colors and sizes. Sure there were sapphires and emeralds, but also stones that were not jewels, which were used only to decorate the house and Demi loved those.

One was a lot like Demi’s red hair and Bernie was blown away with the resemblance.

– Demi, you must buy this one – it is so you. If you do not buy it, I will buy it for you.

Demi was staring at the stone and seemed not to hear Bernie. It didn’t even look like a stone, it was like a very thick piece of red glass, very red.

– Where does this stone come from? – Asked Demi.

– It comes from one of the high mountains of the dragons, girl. My husband found it in one of his trips and when asked by a traveler he swore it was from the dragon’s mountains. He swore, girl.

– All right, never mind, it was just curiosity. I will take it.

– Very good, very good. Anything else?

– Yes, I will take these black and blue stones that are similar too.

– Very good, very very good, child. It is three coins.

When they moved away from the tent, the woman was looking at the three friends with eyes full of curiosity, but none of them noticed that, because they were jabbering about what they shopped in their day of festivity.

– Well, looks like it is time to take our acquisitions home and prepare for the opening party. – Demi said.

– Already?

Demi laughed. – Artie, we still have fourteen days of Fiftday, you will have time enough.

– I know, but the first day is the best it is so cool.

– Yet the party is coolest. Lets go, I have to wash my hair.

It was past four o’clock when they reached the tavern and found Josh and Haryn talking quietly. Demi hugged Josh and pretended not to see Haryn, who was with his mocking smile as usual.

– How was the first day? Did you bought anything? – Josh asked.

– Just some little things. Everyone knows the merchants keep the best for the end.

– True.

– Well, I will help Artie to take a shower and then I have to wash my hair.

– Sure have, it does not even look like red anymore, but brown because it is so dirty. – Haryn said, with a smile.

Demi did not reply, just gave him a stare that would have paralyzed a dragon and for a moment she thought she saw his smile break and a glimpse of fear in his eyes, but that was only an impression. Josh was quiet, he only nodded his head to the stubbornness of those two.

After helping Artie – and even Bernie – to get clean and fragrant, Demi went upstairs to take her bath. She was supposed to meet them at seven. Aisni, a village girl that was friends with Demi, would help her with her hair. For the first time she decided to do something with it for the party. Her original plan was to braid it with ribbons, but Aisni suggest something different and Demi loved it.

When the girls went down, Artie and Bernie were already waiting. Artie wearing his white cloak and his shining fur and Bernie with his black and white vest over his clean and brushed brown reddish fur. Haryn and Josh also were ready to go. Josh as usual was pretty well dressed, but with simplicity and Haryn did not seemed to have taken a bath or changed his clothes. Everyone looked when Demi came because she was stunning. Her white dress was made from a drawing she had seen in a history book about the lineage of the men of dragon blood. It was white with red branches on the hem and on the tip of the sleeves, a modest cleavage and long and wide sleeves from the elbow. Her hair looked like waves of red with thin white ribbons.

Demi was elate with the way Artie e Bernie looked at her and Josh was delighted with his child. So much that you could see a tear wanting to jump out of his eyes, but what dazed her the most was the look she saw in Haryn’s eyes. She did not know what that was, but for the first time she felt he was not mocking her. This lasted only a few seconds, because Haryn turned on and walked out.

– My daughter, you are beautiful!

– Really, Demi, you look like a princess. – Bernie said. – And you too, Aisni, are very pretty.

The girls laughed. Aisni have a golden hair that fell in well-defined curls until up half of her back and wore a blue dress that look like the sky. She tied her hair half-up half-down with a ribbon that matched her dress.

– Thank you! But you are only saying that because you are my friends. Aisni is really lovely.

– Well, Demi, right back at you! There is no problem. We are all very beautiful and we are going to the party!

Everyone nodded excited and left. Haryn was not at sight, but when they approached the central tent, where the party would take place, Josh pulled back and found him near one of the large trunks that supported the tent. Demi looked at Haryn, still not understanding what had happened just before, and yet she felt even more uncomfortable, even though he had not even cast a glance in her direction since. Anyway it was a party day and she did not want to spoil things thinking in that unpleasant man.

Many people were already coming to the celebration, all well dressed. The opening and closing parties of Fiftday were the only ones that took place in the village, so almost everyone were there, even the sick made an effort to be there.

The group of friends hang out near a tent that sell mead and everyone bought a cup. While they were drinking, laughing and chatting the band began to play; soon after Ethan invited Demi to dance and so she went. Then Bunn appeared and asked Aisni to dance while Artie and Bernie were squirming in their seats and calling that dance.

– Wow, Demi, you are so beautiful! – said Ethan.

– Thank you, Ethan. – she replied, blushing. She liked Ethan and knew he liked her, but she was too shy to admit it to him or to anyone else, including herself. Either way she was glad to know that he liked the way she was.

Demi danced three songs with Ethan and then got back to her friends. Aisni was there too and the girls were all secrets and giggles.

– What the hell do you whisper so much? It sure must be very very funny.

– Actually, Artie, we are talking about very serious stuff.

– Sure, like we do not know you are talking about boys.

– We are not! No way! – said Demi, blushing. She did not want that her friends thought she was a silly girl who wanted a boyfriend.

– It is alright, Demi. – Bernie said. – It is normal that you will want to talk about boys.

– But I am not! – She said even more embarrassed.

– Then lets not talk about that anymore! – Bernie said. But he and Artie were still having a blast with it, because they knew how Demi was angry about these subjects.

– Artie and I will take a walk, be back soon.

After they left, Aisni asked her:

– Why didn’t you tell them?

– I do not like to talk with them about that. They would not understand.

– Of course they would, Demi. Admit it, you are ashamed.

– No way! It’s just it’s not their business.

Aisni knew Demi very well so she knew that she would never admit it, but it was funny to see how blushed she was because people knew exactly what she wanted to hide.

– Come on, Aisni, let’s take a walk too.

They started to circulate among people. However they did not saw any signal of Artie and Bernie or even Josh, but Haryn was yet in the same spot, talking with an outsider, probably a merchant. He seemed unconcerned and almost happy. Demi had never seen him like that. She kept watching him for a while until Haryn turned around and looked at her and the contempt was again in those eyes. Demi pretended not to care and kept walking, looking at the other side.

Short after that Ethan showed up asking to speak to Demi. Aisni encouraged her to go and left. Ethan gave Demi a red flower that made her turn the same color.

– That is lovely.

– That is for you to remember me when you are at home.

– I do. – she said hastily and immediately regretted. – I remember all my friends. – she complemented awkwardly

– I know – he said and he was smiling – Demi, you know I like you, right?

She did, but she would not tell him that. In fact she did not know what to say. She opened her mouth and closed it again, she looked away and saw that Bunn was also talking to Aisni, who was smiling. Did all Buruma kids decided to profess their love today? When Demi looked again to Ethan he was much more closer and before she realized it he was kissing her.

It was a quick kiss, but it felt like an eternity to Demi. It was her first kiss; she had been kissed for the first time and she liked it. She summoned up the courage to look at him. He was smiling and was holding her hands – although she could not remember when it had happened. She smiled back.

Demi had never thought about having a boyfriend, at least not one that was not a great minstrel or storyteller who had traveled the world. Yet now she was there with someone that made her feel different, someone she would not mind to call boyfriend. While all of this was crossing her mind she saw, over Ethan’s shoulder, Haryn looking directly at her. Once more he had that smile that mocked her and Demi instantaneously knew that he had seen it all. She was upset and let Ethan’s hand go.

– Is everything okay?

– Yes, it is nothing. Let’s take a walk?

– Sure.

Demi could see that Ethan was confused, but she needed to walk away from Haryn’s side, so she walked fast and Ethan had to hurry to catch up.

– Did I did something wrong, Demi? If I did, I am sorry.

– No, you did not do anything wrong. – She said still walking fast. When they were far enough from Haryn she stopped. She was very annoyed. Why should Haryn ruin everything? That moment only concerned her, her and Ethan, why he had to be there and spoil everything?

– Demi, what is it?

– Nothing. I was just surprised, that is all. Sorry, Ethan. – She sat on a nearby trunk.

– You do not need to apologize. It is alright if you do not feel the same about me. – He said with a sorrowful voice.

– No. No, it’s not that. Like I told you, I was just surprised. I… I like you too, Ethan. – she murmured and blushed.

– Do you?

– Yes.

He was smiling again. – Can I sit with you then?

– Of course you can.

After a while she had forgotten about Haryn and all. They were there talking for a long time until they realized that the music had stopped, which meant that it was time for the stories. Then they came nearby the stage and Demi said goodbye to Ethan. Just ahead were Aisni, Artie and Bernie.

– Where were you? – questioned Bernie.

– Out there. – Aisni knew she was with Ethan and they looked at each other with a smile. However there was no time for questions because the minstrel was on stage and had strummed his harp.

There were always a musician and a storyteller for which night of the Fifday and, as expected, the minstrel of the opening night would recite a story about the Last Renewal ritual. He said that it was the true story of the ritual which had been told to him by one of the Dragons of the north. All was silent and so he began.

He sang about the threats and wars between men of old and dragons and also about how they had reached an agreement to unite their blood, although he did not explain what the dragons gained with this union. Then he told about the ritual: a macabre dance in which the man would have to mutilate his own body and throw himself in a bonfire burning with dragon’s flames. And when the spirit of the man left his body it would be trapped in a bottle full of dragon’s blood. To renew the covenant, the kingdom’s heir should drink from that bottle. At the Last Renewal, the messenger who brought the bottle was ambushed and killed by an errant group, he said, and that was what went wrong then. This terrible song also said that such misfortune occurred because the one who would participate of the ritual was a woman, not a man.

Demetria looked at Josh and Haryn and both of them were having fun with that rubbish presentation. People applauded, most likely out of pity and not for any other reason. It was the worst version that Demi had ever heard.

– What the hell was that? He completely ignored the fact that Tomus was murdered on the same day, but invented this bullshit about the messenger’s accident. Seriously? A spirit trapped in a bottle of blood? Even the dragon barbecue version is more acceptable.

– I agree. That was the most idiotic version I had ever heard. – said Artie.

– My father tells that when he was a boy he heard of a version that said that a man and a dragon held hands and gave one hundred little hops together. – Aisni said and the four friends roared with laughter and only managed to stop when the storyteller was beginning his tale.

He told about a damsel that had fell in love with an enemy warrior. Demi had listened that story a million times, because everyone liked to tell it. However, for the first time she did not mind listening a love tale. Her heart was touched by the fate of the lovers and she wondered what the hell did Ethan do to her. Either way she was happy.

They said goodbye to Aisni, who went home with her family, and the three friends returned to the tavern. Demi was hoping that Haryn was not there, because she did not want to see him. It was eleven o’clock by the time they got home. Josh was there but not Haryn to Demi’s relief.

– So, how about tonight? Did you like it?

Everyone started talking at the same time. Josh smiled knowing that, as always, they had loved everything. Well almost everything.

– My goodness, what was that version of the ritual?

Josh smiled. – One of the worst I heard, I think. It wasn’t even well plotted.

They remembered the version of the little jumps and everyone started laughing again.

– Sure, I heard that, said Josh. – I remember that the poor minstrel could not finish his song because of the public’s laughter.

– Which was the best version you have ever heard, Josh? – Bernie asked.

He thought for a few minutes before answering:

– I think it was one I heard when I was still very young, and was not living here yet. It was a version that spoke of the invocation of a powerful spirit, but I do not remember it correctly, I should have written it down.

– Sounds a good one – Artie replied and after a moment when they were all pensive, Bernie said:

– Well, I think we should sleep because tomorrow will be a busy day and we still have fourteen versions to listen to.

– Yep, it is true. Goodnight to all and see you tomorrow. We can go a little later tomorrow, right, Demi?

– Sure.

After they left, Demetria remained there and Josh asked her if there was something wrong.

– No, nothing. – answered Demi. She did not like to hide anything from Josh, but she did not want to tell him about Ethan. Not now, maybe another day. Anyway as she was talking with Josh she decided to ask about Haryn.

– Dad, why are you even friends with Haryn?

– This again.

– You never gave me an answer.

– I like him.

– But why? He is ignorant, insensitive and irritating.

– Daughter, Haryn is nothing like that, you just do not know him very well.

– Of course I do! I have known him since I can remember.

– Not the same Haryn that I know. And that is enough of that! I know my words will not convince you of anything but I guarantee that one day you will change your mind about him.

– That won’t happen.

– I know that you think that. Good night, Demetria.

– Goodnight.

Demi was pissed again. Her father would never tell her nothing about Haryn and that was annoying. She could not understand that. Haryn was probably fooling her poor dad. Either way, as she was climbing to her room, her mind flew to Ethan and more pleasant thoughts and she remembered how good it was to have someone who liked her. It was a good feeling that drove her to sleep, despite Haryn.

When Demetria woke up she was startled. She had dreamed about the story told the night before: but in her dream she was the damsel and Haryn was the warrior. She was mad at herself for dreaming such a silly thing and was convinced that this nonsense was motivated by Josh’s words. She tried to forget that stupid dream but she could not, especially when she went dawn for coffee and found Haryn talking to Josh.

– Good morning, little brat! Are you alright?

The mocking tone of his voice was even bigger today. Demi did not answer. She walked through the tavern giving up her coffee and going to meet her friends. But they were not there.

– Where are Artie and Bernie?

– They have already gone. I was going to tell you but you passed like a rain. They asked to warn you that since you were taking too long to wake up they were going to wait for you in the pavilion.

– In the pavilion? But it was their idea to sleep until later!

– Demetria, it is almost two o’clock in the afternoon.

Demetria froze. She could not believe that she slept so much, particularly because it was such a poor quality of sleep as it produced such an unpleasant dream.

– It seems like so many kisses last night stunned you, eh, brat. – Haryn said clearly amusing himself.

Demetria was about to kill him. What right he think he had to discuss her life like that?

– Fuck off, Haryn! – She said slamming the door.

– Why did you tease her so much?

– It is fun.

– She hates you.

– I know. And she must be hating me even more right now. – Haryn said with a sorrowful look.

– Probably. And if I did not know you I would say that is exactly what you want.

Haryn looked at him but did not reply.

Demi left the tavern and began to cry. How such horrible man could exist? How could he ruin everything? She sat on a log and cried out all her anger. When she raised her eyes Artie and Bernie were there.

– How long have you been there?

– Since you left the tavern. What happened, Demi? – Bernie asked sitting down next to her. Artie was just in front of her.

Demi realized that if she was going to tell they about what had just happened she would have to tell about the previous night and she did not know if she wanted that. However as Aisni had said they were her friends and they had the right to know.

– Ethan kissed me yesterday.

– We know.

– How?

– We saw it.

– Did you? But… oh, okay. So, Haryn saw it too. And you know how horrible he is. He just told Josh about it.

– But… you think Josh would not be fine with that?

– It is not that! He has no right to talk about my life. He is a detestable and disgusting man and I hate him, hate!

– Calm down, Demi. He likes to tease you. If you did not pay attention to him he will stop, you will see.

– But I can’t!

– Well, you have to try, right? After all Josh likes him and Haryn will still be around for some time.

– And how could you know that? Demi asked, annoyed. – He could die tomorrow or today!

– If that is what you want to believe, fine.

Demi was pissed off with her friends now. They should take her side and agree with her and insult Haryn with her, but no. They preferred to try do get her to forget and let it go. She stood up wiping her eyes and left without saying a word. Both of them followed her and they knew that she would be in a bad mood all day long.

After they have silently walked for a while, Aisni showed up and Artie and Bernie decided to take a walk to leave the girls alone. Demi told Aisni what had happened and she emphatically agreed with Demi who felt a little better. After that the conversation returned to the adventures of the previous night. Aisni told Demi that Bunn had asked her to be his girlfriend and that she had accepted. Demi was very happy about that and then she told Aisni about Ethan. Aisni was sure that he would ask Demi too.

– Will you accept?

Demi thought about how well she felt about him and the change that she had felt last night before answering.

– Yes, I think so.

The two friends walked until they found an agglomerate of people gathered around Bernie. He was telling one of his stories: the one of a great magician that had grown tired of his spells and decided to live in the mountains with giant birds. Demi knew the story, even so she stopped to listen, because Bernardo’s voice was somehow magical and could charm anyone, even those who already have listened to him before. All those people around Bernie were looking at him with great admiration and no one could hear a single sound but his voice.

When he finished everyone applauded and asked for more stories, but he said that that was enough for a day. Demi approached him to apologize for her previous behavior but before she could say anything he said:

– No need to apologize.

She stopped and looked at him curiously. He started to laugh and opened his arms.

– You stubborn girl!

She ran to hug him. – You silly bear!

Aisni and Artie were talking excitetedly as they got close to Demi and Bernie. Demi turned to try to apologize to Artie but he also rapidly said that there was no need.

– What is the matter with you two?

– Simple! We just know you too well.

– Apparently more that you should have.

– Oh you have no idea!

Everyone laughed.

The afternoon casted its last lights but tonight no one would go home. The night fell and the lamps began to be lit and the stars were already shining in the sky. It was however a moonless night. Ethan and Bunn arrived and Artie e Bernie gave then some alone time with the girls.

That night Demi did not care if anyone would see her holding hands with Ethan. Josh already knew, her friends knew too and that was what mattered. As Aisni had foreseen, Ethan asked Demi to be his girlfriend that night and she said yes. That night they did not hear the ritual version or some story. Not that night or any other of that week.

In the next week, Josh would open the tavern but as always he dismissed Demi and Bernie of any work. Yet when was time for the stories he was always there. It was his greatest pleasure to hear the absurd versions of the last ritual. Demi suspected that he kept a record of all the versions he heard after having forgotten his favourite.

On the first night of the second week, even Demi and Ethan went to hear the stories, as it was in the last week that the best singers performed. On the second night, the minstrel chanted a song about an ancient war and everyone was keen to hear the story as they knew it would be about the Last Renovation. Until that moment of the Fiftday there had not been stories about that, only songs so the expectations were great. Even Josh and Haryn looked anxious and exchanged some meaningful looks.

When the narrator took the stage there was absolute silence and Bernardo let out a low roar.

– What is the matter, Bernie?

– I do not know, but there is something about this guy.

The minstrel had black hair and black eyes but was pale as the moon. He was wearing plain blue clothes and Demi could not see anything that stood up in him but she believed in her friend and immediately disliked him because bear’s eyes were more argute than human’s.

When he started to talk his voice was like a mesmerizing song and no one could look away or stop listening:

A long time ago there was a very wise and powerful being and he walked freely through the mountains and forests of our world. He served no one and was a friend to all and for that reason his soul was ashed to see two of his favorite peoples at war: men and dragons. Being so wise he decided to propose an agreement between both, an alliance. They would bound themselves through blood and thus they would never make war against each other again. With this blood alliance men’s life would be longer, they would be more beautiful and powerful and would also have access to the knowledge of the nature and the world that only the dragons possessed. On the other hand, the dragons would gain all the knowledge acquired by men through the reading of scrolls for years and years and the wisdom that came from such knowledge, they would also gain the potential to have sentiments, to love, and the capacity to think rationally. The dragons were not entirely convinced that the alliance was worth it but Ulmur, the Great, persuaded them that above all they would have peace. The price of the alliance however was high. Both Ulmur and Shaian, the high king of man, would have to sacrifice themselves to make the union possible. No one ever knew how this wiseman convinced them to agree to it but the sacrifice was made and the union between races was done. About this initial ritual I can tell you nothing but it must be symbolically renewed every thousand years when the moon appears into the sky crowned by the five stars of life. So, every thousand years, a human and a dragon representative both females will meet each other on the Union Glade where the wiseman would evoke Ulmur’s and Shaian’s spirit with a drop of blood of each of the representatives and some litany in a strange language only known by the wiseman himself. When the spirits show up the human should make a decision: to gestate the child in her womb or put her in a dragon’s egg. If she chose the first option all she had to do was receive the breath of Ulmur and Shaian. But if she pick the second option she would have to sacrifice herself – like Ulmur and Shaian did – to guarantee a secure gestation in a safe dragon egg which would hatch when it was time. Not before nor after. For this reason the chosen female dragon was picked among those who have recently hatched an egg, for she had to bring her last hatched egg to the ritual and was fundamental that it was no part missing in it. When this was the path chosen by the human she would have to kill herself with a specific dagger brought by the wiseman and her blood would have to be collected in the dragon’s egg. Only then Ulmur and Shayan would blow the egg. This option had never been chosen until the Last Renovation. Tomus already knew the danger that was upon his lineage although the source of his knowledge had never been discovered. Some think that the bound with the dragon’s blood was behind this, but we will never know. The fact is that when he had to send his queen to the ritual he already had a plan to save at least one of his lineage. He sent with her a maid that was very much alike his wife and this woman should return as his pregnant queen after choosing the first option. Tomus knew that the ones who wanted to exterminate his line had knowledge about the ritual and he also knew that they would be waiting for his wife to murder her and his heir shortly after having killed him in his castle. But the queen decided to sacrifice herself choosing the second option and placing her child safely in a dragon’s egg. And so was her maid who was sent to death as if she were the queen. That was how at least one descendent of the lineage of dragon’s blood was saved. If the egg has already hatched I can not tell you but I can assure you that you have heard for the first time the true story about the ritual between dragons and men.

No one applauded. People did not even seem to breath. The minstrel bowed and left the stage. Bernie and Artie were silent and exchanged a look, and Demi realized that they were astonished.

– What is it?

– Demi, we need to go home now! – Artie said.

– Why? What is it?

– Nothing, Demi. – Said Bernie calmly. – But like I said there is something off with this guy and this story pissed me off. Can we go home, please?

– But that was the best version I have ever heard. It also looks like that one that Josh forgot. – Demi said looking around for Josh but he was not there. – Where is Josh?

– He had already gone home, can we go?

– Yes, but I need to find Aisni, she will stay at my place tonight.

– You must go with Artie and I will find her and take her home. – Bernie said.

Demi was completely lost but she did not argue because she noted that her friends were on edge and even she, without knowing why, was feeling restless. She was still holding hands with Ethan who did not understand a thing.

– Can I walk you home?

– I think so.

Demi, Artie and Ethan went to the tavern and as they approached they heard voices inside. Artie came inside to let Demi say goodbye to Ethan.

– Well, I guess I have to go. See you tomorrow then.

– See you. – But Ethan did not seem to want to leave.

Demi kissed him on his right cheek then his left and then his lips.

– Until then. Goodnight!

Demi was feeling sad but she did not know why. Maybe it was just her friend’s commotion but she wanted to cry. Before she reached the tavern’s door Bernie showed up with Aisni and they all went in together. Josh and Haryn were murmuring fast and Artie was attentive to their conversation when Demi and the others entered the room. They immediately stopped.

– Demi, I am glad you are here. You must be tired.

– No, I want to know what is going on.

– Not today. It is late and it is no big deal. – Haryn said and gave her a meaningfully look, without mockery and without calling her a brat. Demi knew that she would not hear anything from them that night.

– Okay then. Let’s go to sleep, Aisni.

Aisni was a little bit confused but she had no idea of what was happening so she accompanied her friend up the stairs wishing a goodnight to everyone.

– What are they arguing about?

– Nothing much, it must be to decide if they will open the tavern tomorrow.

– Ah. Today’s version was any good? I did not hear it.

– It was okay. – Demi did not know what to say. She thought that all the fuzz and apprehension were about the story and she did not want to talk about it with Aisni.

– Wow, I am really tired, are you? – said Demi.

– Oh goodness! I am whacked. – Answered Aisni.

Demi gave Aisni the bed and laid down on the straw mattress beside the wall. She was thinking that she would not be able to sleep but she did not remain awake for long. She must have been very tired after all.

In the middle of the night she woke up with Haryn shaking her:

– Demi, wake up! Wake up damn it!

– What is it?

– You have five minutes to get some things. We are going on a trip.

– What do you mean? Who? Where are we going?

– No time for questions right now, hurry up or you will regret it.

– I cannot just leave Aisni here.

Haryn looked at her for a moment and after a curse agreed:

– Alright, wake her up and bring some clothes for her too. Do not forget to get some winter clothes and some food.

Demi did not have time to ask anything else and by Haryn’s tone and the fact that he called her Demi she knew there was no time for stubbornness.

She woke Aisni up and with as few explanations as possible convinced her that they were going to do something unusual and fun and that it was a surprise. She took what she could, according to Haryn’s instructions, and then she went downstairs to warn her friends about it but they were already waiting for her.

– Are you going too?

– Sure. Are you ready?

– I am. I think so...

At that moment, Haryn hurried out and said:

– Let’s go. Josh will meet us later. Come on.

It was still dark and there were many stairs in the sky and there were much time before dawn. Everyone seemed in a hurry, so Demi also hurried, making Aisni keep up.

After walking about twenty minutes they were almost leaving the village. It was then that Demi looked back and saw a very bright light.

– What is that?

No one answered.

– Haryn, what is that? – she yelled.

– Fire.

– We need to go back and warn them, it is spreading and it will get into the houses! – Demi was desperate but no one else seemed to care, other than Aisni, who was terrified now.

– We need to go back now! – Demi yelled, and stood still. Haryn turned around looked into her eyes and said:

– They are all already dead, Demi. There is nothing we can do about it.

#my writing #patreon #writers #book #help

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devilreno · 4 years ago

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BOLD any which apply to your muse! Italicize any that apply to an extent. Remember to REPOST! Feel free to add to the list!

tagged by: @frostweaved thanks, friend! tagging: @sweettifalockhart // @cosmicfyres (Tae) // @greatxgospel // @fraxcxccl // @cavusvitae // @inanisvitae // @skyfallenxsoldier // @stingslikeabee // @sixba // @reno2ndgun // @roseusuitta // @argxntcm // @sometimesrufus // @lacunxa (Rude) // @xxvernalagniaxx // @sharp-shot aaand anyone else who hasn’t done this

[ COLORS ] red. brown. orange. yellow. green. blue. purple. pink. black. white. teal. silver. gold. grey. lilac. metallic. matte. royal blue. strawberry red. charcoal grey. forest green. apple red. navy blue. crimson. cream. mint green.

[ ELEMENTS ] fire. ice. water. air. earth. rain. snow. wind. moon. stars. sun. heat. cold. steam. frost. lightning. sunlight. moonlight. dawn. dusk. twilight. midnight. sunrise. sunset. dewdrops.

[ BODY ] claws. long fingers. fangs. teeth. wings. tails. lips. bare feet. freckles. bruises. canine. scars. wounds. burns. spikes. feathers. webs. eyes. hands. sweat. tears. feline. chubby. curvy. short. tall. normal height. muscular. slender. trained. piercing. tattoos. strong. weak.

[ WEAPONS ] fists. sword. dagger. spear. scythe. bow and arrow. hammer. shield. poison. guns. axes. throwing axes. whips. knives. throwing knives. pepper sprays. tasers. machine guns. slingshots. katanas. maces. staffs. wands. powers. energy. magical items. magic. rocks. mud balls. powered armor. cannons. ballistics. lasers. // bruh... EMG

[ MATERIALS ] gold. silver. platinum. titanium. diamonds. pearls. rubies. sapphires. emeralds. amethyst. metal. iron. rust. steel. glass. wood. porcelain. paper. wool. fur. lace. leather. silk. velvet. denim. linen. cotton. charcoal. clay. stone. asphalt. brick. marble. dust. glitter. blood. dirt. mud. smoke. ash. shadow. carbonate. rubber. synthetics.

[ NATURE ] grass. leaves. trees. bark. roses. daisies. tulips. marigolds. lavender. petals. thorns. seeds. hay. sand. rocks. roots. flowers. ocean. river. meadow. forest. desert. tundra. savanna. rain forest. caves. underwater. coral reef. beach. waves. space. clouds. mountains.

[ ANIMALS ] lions. wolves. tigers. black panther. eagles. owls. falcons. hawks. swans. snakes. turtles. ducks. bugs. spiders. birds. whales. dolphins. fish. sharks. horses. cats. dogs. bunnies. praying mantises. crows. ravens. mice. lizards. werewolves. unicorns. pegasus. dragons.

[ FOODS/DRINKS ] sugar. salt. candy. bubblegum. wine. champagne. hard liquor. beer. coffee. tea. spices. herbs. apple. orange. lemon. cherry. strawberry. watermelon. vegetables. fruits. meat. fish. pies. desserts. chocolate. cream. caramel. berries. nuts. cinnamon. burgers. burritos. pizza. ambrosia. // Ay, yes, he eats errything lol in the options at least

[ HOBBIES ] music. art. watercolors. gardening. smithing. sculpting. painting. sketching. fighting. fencing. archery. riding. writing. reading. composing. cooking. sewing. training. dancing. acting. singing. martial arts. self-defense. electronics. technology. engineering. cameras. video cameras. video games. computer. phone. movies. theater. libraries. books. magazines. cds. records. vinyls. cassettes. piano. violin. cello. guitar. electronic guitar. bass guitar. harmonica. harp. woodwinds. brass. trumpet. flute. drums. bells. playing cards. poker chips. chess. dice. motorcycle riding. eating. climbing. running. sightseeing.

[ STYLE ] lingerie. armor. cape. dress. suit. tunic. vest. shirt. boots. heels. leggings. trousers. jeans. skirt. jewelry. earrings. necklace. bracelet. ring. pendant. hat. crown. circlet. helmet. scarf. neck tie. brocade. cloaks. corsets. doublet. chest plate. body suit. gorget. bracers. belt. sash. coat. jacket. hood. gloves. socks. masks. cowls. braces. watches. glasses. sun glasses. visor. athletic wear. eye contacts. makeup.

[ MISC ] balloons. bubbles. cityscape. landscape. cosmos. light. dark. candles. war. peace. money. power. percussion. clocks. photos. mirrors. pets. diary. fairy lights. madness. sanity. sadness. happiness. optimism. pessimism. realism. loneliness. family. friends. assistants. co-workers. enemies. loyalty. smoking. drugs. kindness. love. hugs.

#—𝐺𝑜𝑡𝑡𝑎 𝑗𝑜𝑖𝑛 𝑖𝑛 𝑡𝘩𝑒 𝑓𝑢𝑛. (dash thingy)

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captainkurosolaire · 5 years ago

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Interview : Captain Kuro Solaire

► Name ➔ “Captain Kuro Solaire”

► Are you single ➔ <Laughs audibly.>

► Are you happy ➔ “There’s always a reason. The eye of mine has the knack to see beauty where all wind directs.”

► Are you angry? ➔ “Seems like a waste if was right now, better left to channel in bed, no?”

► Are your parents still married ➔ “The ole man still wears the band but he lacks the resolve of goodbye to which is parted. We’ll get him there. Better fer everyone for a step of anew.”

NINE FACTS

► Birth Place ➔ “Shite-side of Ul’dah.”

► Hair Color ➔ <Clears voice> “Pitch black like my soul of crippling realization of reality is an empty void.and I am the abyss -- Oh sorry about that! I picked this up in the corner of Quicksands.” Tosses a scripture diary back to the corner of the Tavern.

► Eye Color ➔ “Gold like the finest of Glint.”

► Birthday ➔ “6th Sun of the 6th Umbral Moon”

► Mood ➔ “Lustin”

► Gender ➔ “Let me check...” <Moments later after pulling his pants from him>��“Aye, bonafide man, still.”

► Summer or winter ➔ “Summer.”

► Morning or afternoon ➔ “Dawn”

EIGHT THINGS ABOUT YOUR LOVE LIFE

► Are you in love ➔ “Very”

► Do you believe in love at first sight ➔ “If the compass points me, I am obligated and directed to learn of why I am in that destination. There needs not th’ question of belief.”

► Who ended your last relationship ➔ “Time’s scar as often I am stolen from”

► Have you ever broken someone’s heart ➔ “Do ye see, what I am? Even my hands are inadequate and only tailor to those who trust a broken to hold a heart fit meant to rule Kingdoms.”

► Are you afraid of commitments ➔ “It’s another fancy word fer gambling is that not?”

► Have you hugged someone within the last week? ➔ “Geez, I wish. Who could ever indulge me in such kindness.” <Fake sobs> “Oh sorry, another scrap of paper I found in the other corner!”

► Have you ever had a secret admirer ➔ “Not sure why they’d be secret, I literally have my crotch visible all the time nearly, like why blueball yerself? That’s sadism.”

► Have you ever broken your own heart? ➔ “That thing is in pieces, I failed it. But despite it coal and black, I entrusted it elsewhere to a mender and caretaker who is better than, I, to take care of it for ideally eternity.”

SIX CHOICES

► Love or lust ➔ “Feverish Love that leaves a Lust forever.”

► Lemonade or iced tea ➔ “Neither unless fill that with alcohol.”

► Cats or Dogs ➔ “I’m a pussy preferred kinda guy. -- But ye know having a b*tch isn’t too bad either. Did I just f**king get censored? Seriously who keeps creating that beeping!?”

► A few best friends or many regular friends ➔ “More the type to trust treasured friends in my company, the backstabbing leaves quite a road on my back, I dislike.”

► Wild night out or romantic night in ➔ “The wild suits me”

► Day or night ➔ “Day.”

FIVE HAVE YOU EVERS

► Been caught sneaking out ➔ “Learn t’ not get caught when I was a lil’ scamp”

► Fallen down/up the stairs ➔ “Rum. - Enough said.”

► Wanted something/someone so badly it hurt? ➔ “So; is my Greed, my breed o’ blood n’ flaw.”

► Wanted to disappear ➔ “Become Free”

FOUR PREFERENCES

► Smile or eyes ➔ “I’ll extract both to my whim and maintain thy attraction.”

► Shorter or Taller ➔ “So... Challenge or Kink? Fun, regardless.”

► Intelligence or Attraction ➔ “Well intelligence goes along way, I mean one of us is gonna need it, I don’t carry that attribute! Now. I’m, more of a crackle my knuckles and burst the door open type of bloke.”

► Hook-up or Relationship ➔ “Neither, a bond, is my pref.”

FAMILY

► Do you and your family get along ➔ “Ye looking to apply to the crew?”

► Would you say you have a “messed up life” ➔ “Ha, that is what it means to be free. Chaos follows and disarray what is normal is no longer a thought to worry, that is the beauty, that is the puzzle I uncovered that I implore all to.”

► Have you ever ran away from home ➔ “Ye think the Brass tacks was gonna keep me there? They could hit some cardio instead of just standing like statues all Sun’s pass.”

► Have you ever gotten kicked out ➔ “I push the envelope for entertainment.”

FRIENDS

► Do you secretly hate one of your friends ➔ “Hate is dangerous especially for me, I wouldn’t be able to contain it as a secret.”

► Do you consider all of your friends good friends ➔ “They trust and handle me that far to be considered a friend to me so therefore, I consider them personally as crew, at that point. Now if they scorch or back-stab me, eh, so is the pirate life. We talk about it later after I beat em’ around. But they’ll always be cherished. ”

► Who is your best friend ➔ “My wives.... And Sol, I suppose.”

► Who knows everything about you ➔ “I don’t even know everything about myself, though I’d say the Moon knows me more than anything.” Tagged by : @lavender-hemlock (Thanks gorgeous.) Tags below cut - Also tagging anyone/everyone that may want to take this.

Tagging these lovely spirited treasures - @witch-hause @shur-kha-ffxiv @aylamoenwyb @roxinova @the-ruby-rogue @fracturedfantasia @under-the-blood-moonlight @ruviquutea @xiv-endora @ala-mhinyan @ashura-amariyo @raspberry-rebel @valde-draesia @yuki-yukichan @zahkis-ffxiv @zhauric @theredlilycrew @desertwildcatte @seaborne-xiv @cahli-tia @eorzean-ladies @eorzeasfrozenknight @daughteroflyrre @paleshadeofrose @velarishiku @veloxaraptor @lulubell-vixen @lulu-ffxiv @viridian-dragoon @dragon-sound @wildgirlcinna @megotama @cadrenebula @luckiselki @fated-fallacy @aliapohno @alesanapetrova @foxracinggurl @autumncabbit @autumnslance @moth-to-a-flame-ffxiv @moonstruck-ffxiv @gal-the-violet @shroudblessings @shard-kilamarii @ghostlyfoxangel @smolcatte @temujin-gesi @brytedarklyt @sibutum @mai-takeda @rina-astraea @merosmillionmains @valiant-flower-kamelia @vayduh @jax332 @issa-arwa @grave-touched-kitsune @enlightened-palace @mischiefandmystics @az-ffxiv @lavenderlarksong @yvainethorneathidrial @tanh @brandt-highwind @samurai-from-another-land @ze-dominant-demon @rhev-it-up @benes-diction @hingan-fox @clouded-vxle @neko-lareine @lukawarrioroflight @morha-ffxiv @yokasaris @sweetly-cet @lilac-memorials @raspberry-rebel @snowcoeurl-xiv @michikodhol @vysaldhe @thorcatte @kyrie-silverwings @under-the-blood-moonlight @zhauric @ladyrivienne @yorushikka @kri-babe @red-hare @lihzeh @rael-eryut @weaveroftruth @tales-of-nine @sakuramoonffxiv @tales-of-wanderer-sal @jkehytia @sivanawra @thelastwintermere @east-to-the-sea @final-aria-fantasy @saakyo @the-gunsmith-cat @ssytxiv @kiyi-ghale @moonstruck-ffxiv @smolcatte @kha-merc-ffxiv @antoinautfierlaine @skysinger-musings @resistance-ranger

#Memes answered #Big-Bang Tag Bomb

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zdbztumble · 5 years ago

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“Jewel of the Seven Pokemon!” Chapter I

I’ve had the basic idea for this fic for over a year. It’s one part Fright Night (1985), one part Bram Stoker book, and one part standard BW episode! (And a little bit of Pokeshipping thrown in, because it’s me.)

With any luck, I’ll get this finished within the month of October, with the finale published on Halloween. That may prove unrealistic, but in any event, do enjoy the first entry in my first chaptered Pokefic!

(Also available on FF.Net and AO3)

---

“Joy!” Cilan cried. “Exquisite! Rapture!”

“Does he have to celebrate out loud?” Iris asked dryly. Ash had the feeling she was talking to herself, so he didn’t bother to answer. He was pretty excited himself – the detour back to Virbank City wasn’t something he’d been crazy about at first, but when Cilan told them that they could get into one of the real, working film studios, Ash was all for it. The studio was even one Ash had heard about growing up in Kanto – Worldwide Pictures, one of the biggest movie companies in the world, with a backlot tour that showed off all sorts of famous sets and live shows! Ash could still remember the big, glossy magazine his mom had shown him, loaded with photos of the tour. The linked-up tram cars, the Little Kalos set, the robot Sharpedo; it had all been there.

It wasn’t here now. As soon as they’d arrived, a nervous-looking kid in glasses was out by the gate, explaining to a disappointed crowd that the trams were down for repairs, and that the usual tour wouldn’t be possible.

“B-b-but don’t worry!” she stammered. “T-to make up f-f-for it, w-we’re offering w-walking tours! As long as you follow the y-yellow lines on the ground…”

“WALKING TOURS!?” Cilan threw himself at the attendant. “Do you mean to tell me that we can freely roam one of the most storied film studios in history!?”

“Y-yes – well, you can’t go just anywhere, but –”

But that was all Cilan had needed. He whisked Ash and Iris along into line, nearly tore the pack off Ash’s back looking for the money for tickets, and now led their way through the backlot of Worldwide Pictures on an absolutely beautiful day. It was cool but not cold, the sun was bright, the studio lot was full of excited fans following the yellow lines in small groups, and every now and again, they caught a glimpse of a costumed actor or camera crane being rushed inside one of the huge stages. Cilan kept up a running commentary on everything they passed. Ash understood about half of it.

“Do you see it, Ash?” said Cilan, throwing an arm around Ash as he pointed to a long tan building with a curved blue roof and open doors. “That is Stage 28. It was the first soundstage built in this region, nearly a hundred years ago!”

“Wow…it’s that old?” asked Ash. Movies weren’t something he usually thought about as having been around for that long. I don’t think I’ve even seen any movies older than my mom…

“Ash, Worldwide Pictures is the oldest of the major film companies in Unova!” said Cilan. “It was an innovator of the early days of cinema, the first to relocate to Virbank City from the east, and during the Golden Age of Virbank, it was the studio for mystery, thriller, and horror pictures.”

“Really? Awesome!” It had been forever since Ash had seen a horror movie. The last one was back in Sinnoh, the really weird Alto Marian one with all the bright colors that Dawn thought was so scary that –

A loud scream came from inside Stage 28, sending shivers down Ash’s spine and a frizz through Pikachu’s tail. “Ah,” said Cilan. “It seems such a film is under production as we speak!”

“You think?” asked Ash. Even with the doors open, it was hard to see anything inside the stage, and other than the scream, Ash couldn’t hear anything but a general busy murmur. And when the scream came again, it didn’t sound like something from a horror movie. It sounded excited.

At a third scream, Pikachu perked up. His left ear twitched, and he started to sniff the air. “Hmmm? What’s up, Pikachu?” Ash asked. Pikachu hopped off his shoulder and scampered inside Stage 28. The yellow lines on the ground marked the stage as OK to enter, so Ash didn’t think twice about following.

When his eyes adjusted from the bright sun outside, he saw a massive set, an old-fashioned opera house with balconies, painted backdrops, gold decoration on red walls, and a huge brass chandelier. There was a film crew up on the opera stage, huddled around the camera as they quietly reviewed a script. The bigger crowd was in the seats, as a well-dressed man talked about the set – how it was almost as old as the soundstage itself, that it was originally made for some old movie based on an even older Kalosene book (Le fantôme de la tour Lumiose, or something like that – Ash couldn’t really understand it) and all the films it had been used in.

Pikachu sat on the armrest of one of the chairs in the row nearest to the stage doors, still sniffing. Ash wanted to help him find whatever it was he was looking for, but Ash couldn’t smell anything strange. He couldn’t really see anybody that well either; except for the guide, everyone had their backs to the door.

“…And three years later,” the guide was saying, “this set was used for the theatre scene in Blasko – The Un-dead.”

A member of the crowd jumped up. “OOH! That one’s my favorite!”

It was the same voice that had screamed earlier. Ash was right – it was excited. And it was familiar. With a happy cry of “Pikachupi!” Pikachu leapt from chair to chair until he reached the figure – a tall, scrawny girl in a sleeveless yellow hoodie, short shorts, and ginger hair pulled into a side ponytail.

“Pikachu!” she cried out as the Pokémon hopped into her arms and nestled into her neck. “Wha – where did you come from? Does this mean – oh, hi Ash!”

Ash gave a weak wave in reply. His head felt so dizzy that he couldn’t think of what else to do. Who would think he’d run into somebody from home in a giant movie studio in Unova – much less Misty?

POKEMON: BEST WISHES! “JEWEL OF THE SEVEN POKEMON!”

It really is a small world, thought Iris. They’d run into friends and rivals from Unova all through their journey; now, apparently, they were running into Ash’s friends from his home in Kanto. His best friend, even.

Iris wasn’t sure what to make of her yet. Pikachu obviously loved this girl; he hadn’t left her arms since she and Ash had come out of that old stage. Ash was lit up like the city lights too. He and his friend were chattering back and forth so much, Iris and Cilan still hadn’t had a chance to even give their names. They were somehow on the subject of how creaky the floorboards were in Ash’s room back home, when his mother would fix them, and how Misty was over there so much more often than Ash these days that maybe it should be considered her room (“Is not!” Ash insisted. “Is too!” Misty claimed.)

“So – you’re Misty, huh?” said Iris once they finally took a breath. “We’ve heard a lot about you.” You and five other people, she thought, but Misty’s name was the one that came up the most whenever Ash talked about his other traveling pals, her and some guy named Brock.

“That’s me!” Misty winked and struck a pose. “The world’s greatest beauty, and Water-type leader of the Cerulean City Gym!” Pikachu gave a happy cry of approval, one Iris couldn’t find it in her to match.

“‘World’s greatest beauty,’ huh?” she muttered. There’s a lot you could say about a claim like that… Axew’s snort told Iris that he agreed with her.

“And I know you two,” said Misty, with another wink. “You’re Iris, obviously – the future Dragon Master.”

“Oh – Ash said that?” Iris looked over at her friend, who shot her a cheeky grin. Iris covered her surprise with a pose of her own. “Well, at least he’s telling his friends back home the truth.”

Misty chuckled and turned to Cilan. “And that must make you –”

“Cilan, at your service!” he spun around and bowed. “Fellow Gym Leader, Pokémon Connoisseur, Film Connoisseur –”

“Annoying Connoisseur,” Iris cut in, and took some pleasure in watching Cilan deflate. Ash and Misty chuckled, then turned back to each other. “It’s great to see you again, Misty,” said Ash, for the third time since he’d brought her out. “But how’d you end up in Unova anyway?”

“There was a raffle in Cerulean City for a free trip to Worldwide Studios,” said Misty. “I wouldn’t have entered normally, but they made all my favorite monster movies. Blasko – the Undead, Creature from Heart Lake, Bride of the Sableye –”

Iris slapped a hand to her forehead. Great – another Film Connoisseur… “So you won?” she said, hoping to make a long story short.

A frown flickered across Misty’s face for the first time, but she nodded. “My sisters complained, of course, but I’m overdue for a vacation, and they agreed – eventually – to do their fair share and watch the Gym for a few days.”

“Sisters?” Iris asked.

“Misty’s three older sisters,” Ash explained. “They’re the –”

“They’re the internationally renowned water ballet act known as the Water Flowers of Cerulean City,” said Cilan, instantly recovered. “A popular attraction, though I’m afraid my brothers and I considered them a somewhat shallow taste when they last toured through Unova.”

“Shallow, huh?” Misty raised an eyebrow. “Well, those are my sisters you’re talking about…and they’re so shallow, they couldn’t make a puddle.” She laughed, and so did everyone else. “But forget about them – we’re here, at Worldwide Studios, and there’s so much to see before the autograph signing!”

“Autograph signing?” Iris, Ash, and Cilan all asked together, Pikachu and Axew chirping along.

“You didn’t know?” Misty seemed blown away by the thought. “Later this afternoon, on the set of his new movie, Bela Christopher is signing photos!”

“BELA CHRISTOPHER IS HERE!?” Even by Cilan’s standards, it was a ridiculous scream. He looked ready to faint, and Misty looked ready to jump the soundstage behind her.

“Who’s Bela Christopher?” asked Ash, and Iris was with him. She loved her some movies – even if she wasn’t a Connoisseur of them – and she’d never heard the name in her life.

“WHO’S BELA CHRISTOPHER!?” Misty and Cilan cried together. They looked to each other, as if they couldn’t believe the question, then rounded on Ash so quickly he took a step back. “Ash,” Misty sighed, “he’s only the greatest living star of horror and fantasy films around!”

“He’s a renowned Galarian actor and war veteran going into his fifth decade as a performer!” said Cilan.

“When Chisel Studios in Galar started remaking all the great monster movies, Bela Christopher played all of them,” said Misty. “He’s played Blasko the Vampire more times than anyone!”

“He also gave a fine turn as the great Galarian detective, Mycroft Abode!” said Cilan.

“He has a Bisharp that he uses in all his movies – it was great as the witch’s familiar in Pokémon Horror Center –”

“He’s an operatically trained singer whose albums cover everything from the great Alto Marian operas to heavy metal –”

“He just came back to horror films after a ten-year break with Reversal Mountain –”

“And he’s set to portray the evil wizard Saul of the Rainbow in the long-awaited adaptation of –”

“OK, OK, we get it!” Ash cried. He looked as exhausted as Iris felt. Was “he’s famous” not enough of an answer for these people?

“But that’s still hours away,” said Misty, instantly back into giddy mode. “And I haven’t even made it to the Little Kalos village yet. C’mon, Ash –” she set Pikachu up on her shoulder and linked arms with Ash – “I’ve still got so much to tell you! And you still haven’t told me what happened to that Victini you ran in to…” She led Ash down the studio road, heedless of his sputtering.

“Looks like we’ve picked up another kid,” Iris sighed, shaking her head. “Right?” She looked to Cilan; he still seemed worked into a frenzy. “Er – Cilan?”

“…How could I not have known Bela Christopher would be here signing autographs!?” He threw his hands to the sky and dropped to his knees. “The finest of all the Mycroft Abodes in cinema, and the only man to have played Mycroft’s brother too! There’s no time to lose – we must find out where that set is!” He sprang back up and took Iris by the hand.

“Shouldn’t we just follow Ash and MistyyyyIIIIEEE!” Iris screamed, led against all instinct down the studio street – in the opposite direction from their friends.

***

“Oof! How are you gonna get all this home to Cerulean City anyway?” Ash huffed.

“Don’t be silly, Ash.” Misty gave a dismissive wave of her hand before tossing another box onto the stack. “It’s only a few souvenirs.” That said souvenirs were piled tall enough that Misty couldn’t see Ash’s face anymore didn’t mean anything – that was all packaging. She’d make it fit her luggage when the time came.

“Now let’s see,” she said, taking a lick of her ice cream cone before offering Pikachu one in turn. “We’ve seen the Little Kalos village – I can��t believe how detailed that church façade was, it’s so convincing! – the live werecanroc make-up demonstration, the clock tower set, the Lure Hotel –”

“And we’ve been in every shop along the way,” Ash grunted. “C’mon, Misty – give me a break!”

“Relax, Ash,” Misty giggled. “We’re in the line for the autographs.” She was a little disappointed in how short the line was – they weren’t exactly first at the door, but she and Ash were pretty close for showing up just a few minutes before the set opened. The last classic horror convention Misty had attended in Kanto had a similarly slight turnout. It’s the same everywhere, thought Misty sadly. People just don’t appreciate the beauty in these things. It was Tentacool and Tentacruel all over again.

As soon as he heard they were in line, Ash dumped all the boxes off to the side, and made a big show of stretching and lurching over, as if in pain. Misty rolled her eyes. What a baby – they couldn’t have been that heavy. While he was bent forward, she gave him a thump to the back of the head. He whipped up and glared at her. She glared back. And, in a few seconds, they both broke down laughing.

“It’s great having you here, Misty,” said Ash, still chuckling. “It’s just like being back home.”

“Not exactly the same – Brock isn’t here.” The last word Misty had from Brock, he was settling in nicely at his school and looking into apprenticeships in Johto. “To tell you the truth, Ash, I was a little worried about you when I heard Brock wasn’t with you anymore.”

“Ah, c’mon.” Ash brushed his thumb across the bottom of his nose. “I can take care of myself. And besides, Iris and Cilan are with me here, and they’re great. Just wait ‘til you have some of Cilan’s cooking! Brock’s is still great, but –”

“I don’t know if I’ll have the time, Ash,” said Misty. “My trip’s only for the weekend, and just to see the studio. I have to go home tomorrow night.”

“Oh.” It was amazing how much of an open book Ash Ketchum could be. He almost literally deflated before Misty’s eyes. “That’s too bad…I miss hanging out with ya, Misty.”

Misty had long ago gotten over her doubts about Ash’s friendship. The chance of anything more set aside, she felt secure, knowing he was her best friend and she was his, and they could stay that way without a lot of words about it. That didn’t mean it wasn’t still nice to hear them now and again. “I miss you too, Ash,” she said. “I miss traveling. It’s great, being a Gym Leader – but I’d like to get back on the road sometimes.” Back home, the Cerulean Gym was in the middle of a top-to-bottom renovation, all on Misty’s initiative and design. It was tough work, consuming work – rewarding work. But not enough to stop Misty from taking Azurill up to the roof some nights to gaze out onto the bay, and the silvery horizon line in the moonlight.

And if traveling with Ash specifically had another appeal that she still hadn’t mentioned – well, what he didn’t know couldn’t hurt him. Or us.

“Well…at least we’ve got the weekend,” said Ash, perking back up. “And we’ve gotta have a Pokémon battle, at least!”

“You’ve got it!” Misty flashed him a grin and pumped a fist. “Just you wait, Ash Ketchum – you’re gonna get blown away!”

“Oh yeah?” Ash titled the brim of his hat back. “You haven’t seen my –”

“Ash! Misty!” Ash’s friend Cilan was running towards them in a manic rush, with a flustered Iris and her Axew in tow behind. He barely skidded to a halt in time to avoid crashing into them (but couldn’t stop Iris from falling face-first onto the street.) “Have we missed it?”

“Nope!” Misty said brightly. “Three minutes to go!”

“I told you we should’ve just followed them,” Iris grumbled as she picked herself up. Axew shot Cilan a dirty look before disappearing into his Trainer’s hair.

“So what’s this movie they’re making here?” Ash asked. He was on his toes, craning for a look at the still-closed stage doors.

“Jewel of the Seven Pokémon,” said Misty. “From the author of Blasko – The Un-dead. It’s the first time it’s ever been made into a movie!” Positive that Ash – and probably Iris – had no idea what the book was about, Misty started to explain. “It’s based on old legends about Yamask and Cofagrigus – that they were originally from a long-lost region far to the south. The hero is engaged, see, and his fiancée’s father is a famous professor who goes to that lost region and brings back seven Cofagrigus. They all keep together, circling around this giant ruby – ” Misty started to circle Ash, her hands held out and her fingers wiggling – “and the professor and his daughter figure out that the ruby belonged to an ancient princess that the Cofagrigus used to serve.

“They think the soul of the princess is trapped inside the jewel, see –” she placed her hands over Ash’s heart – “and even though the hero warns them it’s a bad idea, they set up this special ceremony under the right star on the right night of the year to enhance the power of the Cofagrigus and free the princess! And it works, but the princess possesses the fiancée, and she and the Cofagrigus start to tear the mansion apart! The hero and his Absol have to do – well, they don’t have a choice – but in the final scene, all the Cofagrigus are gone, the ruby and the professor vanish, and the hero’s left holding his fiancée’s body in his arms. It’s – ah!” Misty clasped a hand to her cheek. “It’s so romantic.”

“Romantic?” Ash frowned. “It sounds like everyone dies.”

“That’s a typical ending for the Gothic Romance genre, Ash,” said Cilan. Misty felt she didn’t need to taste his cooking to approve of Cilan as a good influence.

Not that Ash seemed to get it. “It still doesn’t sound romantic to me,” he said, crossing his arms. “Do they get together as ghosts?”

“No…”

“Then how’s the love stuff supposed to work?”

“You just don’t have the maturity and sophistication to understand, Ash,” Misty said, her nose turned up. “All the best love stories end in tragedy.” Well, all the best ones in fiction, anyway. Real life’s a different story…

“What, so if you got a boyfriend, you’d want him to die?” said Ash. His eyebrow was up, and there was a taunt in his voice.

“Oh, don’t spoil it!” Misty snapped. “I love that book, and it’ll be a great movie!”

“Sure, sure. Just don’t expect me to go with you.”

“Fine then – I’ll just take Pikachu!” Misty gave Ash’s starter a poke to the tummy, and he cooed happily.

“She couldn’t take either of them,” Misty heard Iris mutter to Cilan; she ignored her.

“And after we see the movie,” she told Ash, “I’ll use Pikachu against you in our Pokémon battle!” Just to play along, Pikachu nuzzled her face with his whole body, and wrapped his tail behind her head. Ash might’ve gotten whiny over that in the old days, but he just grinned, turned his cap back, and drew out a Poké Ball.

“Oh yeah?” he said, his voice suddenly much huskier than Misty remembered. “Well, let’s see you two traitors beat – THIS!”

The ball flew out, a bright light flashed, and there before Misty was a small Pokémon, barely taller than Pikachu, with a white face, an aqua body, a seashell perfectly positioned on its chest…

“…It’s so CUTE!” Misty swooped down to gather the Water-type in her arms. “Ash, how could you not tell me you had an Oshawott! Oh, it’s just the sweetest, most adorable little thing ever!” One look told Misty the love was mutual; Ash’s Oshawott had hearts in its eyes, and he threw his little paws around Misty’s neck.

“Well, Ash,” Misty giggled. “I guess that’s two of your Pokémon that like me best.”

“Aww…Oshawott!” Ash whined. Misty, both Ash’s Pokémon, Cilan, and Iris all laughed.

“Ah!” Cilan pointed toward the stage. “The doors open!” The large red doors slid to either side, still revealing nothing as the stage remained in shadow. A young man, dressed just like the guide from Stage 28, stepped out of the dark. His glasses were thick, his expression forlorn.

“Attention – attention, everyone!” he called to the slim crowd. “The production of Jewel of the Seven Pokémon has been indefinitely suspended, and the scheduled autograph signing is canceled.”

#z's fics #pokeshipping #cilan #iris #pokemon: black and white #ash ketchum #misty waterflower #halloween #fan fiction

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