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In Avalia → 10 days ago Forum: Casual Roleplay
Menzai Isanami





Time: Two days later; Morning
Location: Gaurav
Interactions: Cyrus @Helo, Phia @princess, Darius, Dante @Funnyguy @Alivefalling
Mentions:
Equipment: White Haori, Gauravian luck charm bracelet, Steel Chain Shirt of Deflection (3 uses per day), Disguise ring





Gaurav


Menzai listened to the group in silence, his clawed fingers delicately resting against his chin, as if pondering deeply. Yet, his true intent was to obscure his face from prying eyes. The long haori sleeve normally covering the hand pulled down, the bracelet resting against his wrist.

A battle of consciousness raged within him; at times, the faces of his companions blurred, whether from fatigue or minor hallucination, he couldn't discern. Nonetheless, he pressed on, focusing intently as Cyrus voiced his concerns about searching for his family members.

Menzai furrowed his brow, chiding himself for the obvious slip-up, especially with one of the fairy siblings present, blissfully unaware.

The way they parted did not sit well with the wolf. He felt the need to reconcile this, and soon.

As the brothers received their commendation, despite the awkward and tense atmosphere, they managed to retain some of their spirited nature. Menzai felt a mixture of pride and gratitude for their progress in training, yet a tinge of sadness crept in as he observed them becoming too absorbed in it. It underscored the challenge of finding a balance in teaching others—a task he hoped to tackle when his mind was clearer.

Phia's delighted reaction to Menzai's approval was hardly unexpected, though it amused him nonetheless. He had always been a protective brother, a trait that only seemed to strengthen over time, albeit with some easing of his initial strictness.

Watching the brothers' similar reactions only added to the amusement. As agreement permeated the group, a sense of relief washed over them, dispelling the earlier somber mood.

This marked a promising beginning. Departing the village soon seemed imperative, especially with the escalating chaos, if not already upon them. And then there was the Roc incident—an anomaly worth pondering, considering its unusual hunting grounds.

While the group bantered about fruit slush and enjoyed their camaraderie, Menzai delved into his thoughts, prioritizing his next steps.

After a period of introspection, Menzai cleared his throat to capture the group's attention. Standing up with deliberate slowness, he aimed to convey the gravity of his forthcoming words.

Taking a slow, deep breath to steady himself, he rested a hand on the table for support, his demeanor reflecting solemnity. "It appears we are all in agreement. I extend my gratitude to you, Phia, for this opportunity." he said, offering a brief nod of appreciation, recognizing its significance to him.

"Furthermore, we will be able to further to showcase the customs and wonders of our world to Sir Dante and Sir Darius," he added, acknowledging them with a similar nod.

With the lighter remarks concluded, Menzai closed his eyes, drawing another deep breath, finding solace in the rain's rhythmic patter against the glass. "As Sir Cyrus mentioned, caution is paramount in our search, which reinforces the necessity of sticking together. However, if recent reports hold true, tensions outside the village may have escalated."

Flashes and fragments of the execution haunted the brothers as Menzai struggled to find his voice. They deserved to know the full truth, and more. 'I-' His words faltered, caught in his dry throat once again.

Exhausted and drained, he couldn't bring himself to continue with what he had intended to say. Frustration tinged his clawed fingers as they faintly scraped against the table. It wasn't just the sight of human faces that hindered him; it was the innocence in Phia's eyes that made him hesitant to recount such a gruesome incident.

Menzai's internal struggle was evident to those around him, but with nowhere to safely direct his gaze, he turned his head away. His reflection in the rain-soaked window offered a vague outline at first, obscured by droplets. Yet, as the rain intensified, the images sharpened, revealing the individuals within the household.

Initially, this brought a fleeting sense of relief, until he noticed the spreading inky blackness, tainting the scene. A raspy chuckle grated against his ears, accompanied by unsettling visions of his family and friend engulfed in darkness. 'Do they suffer? The lies? The guilt?' The voice taunted, its eerie joy palpable. 'Tell them...their faces...how amusing.' Or face a banquet of grief and guilt.' The voice's vile words clawed at his mind, leaving Menzai torn between equally unsettling choices.

The window's glass abruptly turned an ominous shade of inky black, followed by a flash of menacing wolf fangs lunging towards him. Menzai recoiled, briefly wondering if it was a genuine threat or merely another hallucination. With his eyes closed, he couldn't be certain.

Upon reopening his eyes, he found the group gathered around the table, everything appearing normal once more. Relief flooded him, allowing him to catch his breath, though he remained slightly hunched over, still recovering from the shock.

Cursing himself internally for the lapse, Menzai stood up, his hand instinctively covering his face as he exhaled slowly. "I apologize." he murmured, his voice strained. He rubbed his tired eyes, admitting, "The recent incidents seem to have affected me more deeply than I realized. We can discuss this further, but for now, I need to excuse myself."

With a nod of his head and averted gaze to avoid their worried expressions, Menzai swiftly departed from the table, hastening to his bedroom despite his exhaustion.
In Pokémon: There and Back Again → 13 days ago Forum: Casual Roleplay
Tristan Glory












Tristan was nervous and anxious as he watched the battle continuing to unfold and when the flickering glows from the flowers started had him tensing.

Only for it to falter shortly after, leaving the teen disappointed and frustrated.*Hngh! Why didn't it work? Ugh... guess it requires some special conditions?* Thought Tristan; irked by this fact, but this also meant there was something there and it was possible. He needed to figure out what it was that triggered the incident.

Something that he unfortunately had no time to focus on, amidst the on-going battle against a most rather aggressive Lombre. Contemplating whether to try again or not, when he saw Angel getting pushed back; indeed scaring him both from the shock and surprise at Angel's improved nimbleness.

With that bit exchange over, Tristan took a moment to release his breath, having not noticing doing so.

Though his initial plans failed and while Lombre was seemingly landing decent hits, he could see Angel was still in pretty good health, to his relief. And apparently faster?.* Was this a side-effect of the rapid-spin?* The perplexed teen thought. This was unexpected and showed just how little he knew about pokemon and how their moves worked. Then there was whatever Angel nearly pulled off; a feat they would definitely do.

"We still have the momentum! Use Mega Drain!"

The man's words caught Tristan's attention." Tch, we will see about that! Don't underestimate Angel's nimble beauty!" He called back in challenge.

Deciding to put off on attempting the leaves again, instead chose to take on a risk. With Angel's current state and taking into account Lombre's attack..." Don't worry about dodging, Angel! Instead charge and build up speed with rapid-spin and slam into that mega-drain with your all!" Tristan cried out, the teen clenching his teeth at knowingly having her take the hit.

But, if this worked out then the benefits might get him the edge needed.
In Avalia → 20 days ago Forum: Casual Roleplay
Menzai Isanami




Time:2 days later; Morning

Location: Gaurav

Interactions: Cyrus @Helo, Phia @princess Darius, Dante @Funnyguy @Alivefalling

Mentions:

Equipment: White Haori, Gauravian luck charm bracelet, Steel Chain Shirt of Deflection (3 uses per day), Disguise ring




Gaurav


The stoic wolf quietly sat at the dining table, the chatter, much like the mood had been low. The somber, soft rain outside occurred with poignant timing.

Two days have passed and things have not been pleasant in the slightest. The incident from the other night; a nightmare placed aside, though the events of the following day proved no better.

Leaving Menzai at the table, but out of familial obligation, his plate sitting uneaten saved for a single bite of toast, done to keep from worrying the other diners. And even that had proven too much for his current overly sensitive appetite. More precisely to say he had none.

Or at least, that had been yesterday; this morning, however, everything seemed repulsed him. Whether it be sight, sound or smells, like the freshly cooked meal his mother and Phia put so much effort into for them all, the sweetly scented flowers and fruits, the clinking and clattering of utensils or cups. The low chatter from whatever brief conversation that was had during this dreary morning.

Sickening. All of it, for each that he looked at, would only gain him glimpses and flashes of the execution. The acrid pools of blood drowning his senses, netting another revulsion in the pit of his stomach. A stench he was well accustomed to and normally would be unbothered, but what he witnessed and the fears that came about that recording.

A viewing kept private for the elders and select few eyes; appropriately decided with the village already narrowly avoiding an attack just days prior. He, much like his father knew of its contents, and it was one Menzai both detested and regretted, yet his oath left him no choice but to bear witness.

And now, much as the brothers, who for their own understandable reasons struggled to look at or talk to comfortably, was now shared by the wolf. A cruel irony and one he could not escape; being their teacher and having to observe them through training and such.

Through it all, Menzai could only picture them sharing Zora’s fate. Even as they sit at the table now, eating and jesting, to him they appear misshapen..broken. And not only them, but all the humans.

Averting his gaze gave him no comfort nor escape as their scents were a constant, unavoidable reminder that only made it more real; a boon to his canine senses in such circumstances. It was by no fault on their end.

There was seldom any comfort at this table or even in his own home. For just as it was difficult to see the brothers, his parents served no better.

The two, who did their best to be their usual hospitable selves, were struggling, his mother particularly so. The incident was still all too fresh in his mind; mother’s sorrowful, yet thankful wail at learning her son’s fate reverberated in his head at random times. A painful and shameful reminder that burned more harshly from personal reasons.

Then there were the fairy siblings. His horrible handling of that night’s situation and the request, which the two have so far, kindly agreed and kept. The wolf was grateful for this, though it made none of it easier and it greatly saddened him that he allowed his relationship with Phia’s blood family to start so poorly.

No matter where he looked; Menzai would merely see those currently in some form of conflict.

Trapped. In a room, surrounded by judging eyes, the reek of blood permeating from them and everything.

Never had he cursed a candle’s brightness; illuminating their faces. Reminding him.

And just as his appetite went, so too did his desire to sleep. The onslaught of nightmares made sure of that.

All these thoughts, fears and worries plagued Menzai’s exhausted mind, leaving him little else but to stare into his cup of water. Only there could he avoid their gazes, instead seeing his reflection.

Staring down at the mostly smooth surface, a visage stared back, those violet eyes normally sharp looked faded and a bit glazed over while heavy shadows contrasted starkly against the nearly sickly pale complexion.

The sight of his own disheveled visage staring back, the only distraction he had and as his mind filled with questions and uncertainties to the point of flooding, the realization came that this place..his home no longer felt…right.

His home. A place once of safety and comfort, now felt suffocating and small. It was then that he would take notice of the shadows. Like mere flickering wisps as first, but each passing secondly seemed to grow and envelope the room, almost as if a living mass.

Even with the crackling flames, the shadows encroached, swallowing up the surroundings slowly. Masses of thick tar like ink dripping and oozing across the table, down the floors. Eventually spilling over those surrounded by the table.

Phia banged her spoon over and over on the table with an enthusiasm that bordered on excessive, effectively halting all conversation in its tracks

A familiar raspy laugh started alongside a sudden pounding sound his head, his reflection rippling as the world around him was being swallowed up. With each pound heard had the laugh become harsher and louder and constricted his breathing more and more until he felt like his chest and ears were going to explode when-

"I have an idea."

Phia's words pulled him from the mental storm that had threatened to engulf him as his breathing returned to him. With it, shortly came recognition; remembering that they were merely eating breakfast.

Remembering as well that there was one at this table he could bring himself to look at. For while faces of those around him carried those wisps of shadows, Phia's alone shone bright like the candle, and much like the small fire, it was her trying to lift up the mood.

He would offer a smile were that he had the strength to or actual reason to do so. Still, he was thankful for any reason to not be left in his mind, where only confusion reigned.  

"I think we should bring the fliers we made to River Fairy Kingdom to help Cyrus find his family. There are many fairies there, and rumor has it they have riverfruit slushes." Phia had longed to visit there more often, only successfully sneaking over there once or twice. Menzai always dragged her back and she had never been certain why. Nonetheless, her proposal hung in the air. Her eyes sparkled with anticipation as she continued, "Plus, Dante and Darius have been putting in so much effort during training sessions lately. It's high time we showed them a bit of fun."

Listening as the excitable Fair detailed her idea with an enthusiasm perplexing to have in this current mood. Seeing her speak confidently was uplifting.

The wolf spent the next minute doing some contemplating, his right forefinger gently tapping his cup at intervals as he did so. The idea of venturing to the fairy kingdom following the execution did not sit well with Menzai in the slightest.

" Hm, yes I suppose-" Cutting short as his voice came out rough; only now realizing just how badly parched his throat was leaving him needing to take a sip." Apologies, mhm. As I was saying, perhaps it is time we, as Phia suggests, pay a visit to the fairy kingdom. There, perhaps we may be able to help our guests." Motioning in their direction as he stated so.

His attention then turning to Dante and Darius as he thought over what Phia said regarding their training. Said training had become more intense, made harder by the banning of footwear and socks. As they were earth mages, Menzai sought to help improve their connection to the planet and to toughen their soles. As with the looming threat now hovering all the more, meant their growth needed to improve.

And training alone was not enough. They needed to gain experience that this forest, while could offer would be too slow and each passing day made the risks of attacks to the village all the more feasible.

As much as he wished to keep them all in Gaurav where they could be safe, it would only ever be temporary, just as it is keeping the full extent of the recording from the group. That, he knew keeping to himself would only serve to make friction, but for his mother and Phia's sake chose to wait until a better place and time to do so and this trip was just the opportunity.

Most of all, however, it was simply that Menzai could not feel comfortable being in the village.

He needed to get out.

" And I do agree. Sir Dante and Sir Darius have been making exceptional progress. And as I'm sure our guests are probably ready to set off as well. So I see no reason to allow some..as Phia kindly put it...fun." Pausing to read the reaction, taking note of his mother's excused absence, the sound of dishes being washed coming from the kitchen. A small bitter sigh left his lips.

Clearing his still somewhat throat." However, I must state one condition. If we are to make this trip and with the reports from yesterday, things may still be a bit...tense. As such, I must ask that we stay as a group upon reaching the kingdom, or in the case of separation to stay in pairs. If there are no qualms with this condition and whatever issues that may arise shortly that can be discussed, then the only thing left would be to prepare." A nod of his head, his piece done, leaving the table open to see what the others had to say.

Now he could only hope the River Fairy Kingdom was currently safe.
In Pokémon: There and Back Again → 21 days ago Forum: Casual Roleplay
Tristan Glory












Tristan could only watch with anticipation and much like Angel, found himself confused at what happened with the leaves. Besides that, however, the Lombre was getting in the hits; more frustrating at the old man's caution around sing.

This left him to drop sing, at least for the time being, and with the battle still going, giving him no time to try to think on what he witnessed. Whatever the strange incident was, a risky path was visible.

Yet, Angel had already taken some hits and Tristan was still very much a rookie trainer. As expected, he was gulping nervously and frustrated at his opponents continued relaxed demeanor; perplexing to the silver-haired teen stressed and worried over Angel. Still, what he saw fascinated him and the way it pushed lombre back.

Something was definitely there, but yet not enough." We need more leaves." He muttered the thought allowed unknowingly, his hands clenching. The risks and uncertainties of what would even happen, that is assuming it even succeeds were enough to not put Angel through such a tough path

" Hngh..Angel, I know this will be hard, but trust me. For now get your distance then use leafage, try and summon as much leaves possible then give your strongest rapid-spin!" He relayed the orders, anxious to see what happens though if things looked too dangerous he was ready to tell Angel to stop.
In Pokémon: There and Back Again → 1 mo ago Forum: Casual Roleplay
Tristan Glory












The strategy worked though little damage was dealt with Angel looking a little worse off. Angel being a grass type was one good thing with the field buff working for her as well.

Ramos concerns for sing were right as Tristan could already see a good plan of action, but knew his opponent was expecting it. And Angel hardly looked like a pokemon really capable of dodging.

Clenching his hands, Tristan was trying to think on how to handle the Lombre aiming a knock-off, when he took notice of some of the loose leaves left behind. Quickly recalling one of Angel's move and with it a crazy idea.

His time short." Angel! Use rapid spin over your leaves and kick them up at Lombre to throw them off, if it works quickly follow up with a sing if not then try to use the flurry to land in a good hit!" Tristan relayed his order along with a back-up with hopes to at least deal a good blow.
In Pokémon: There and Back Again → 1 mo ago Forum: Casual Roleplay
Tristan Glory












Tristan watched with tense anticipation as he watched the battle unfold and at first the Skiddo seemed to get a hit in, but the growls had done their job. That combined with Ace's embers soon brought down their first opponent. And done so through a genuine battle." Excellent job, Ace!" The teen called out, giving the nervous chick his first bit of confidence boost.

A short-lived one as Ramos called out Lombre, the goofy looking grass/water mon combined with the compliment from Ramos, momentarily stunned Tristan much like Ace was by the fake-out. An seemingly unavoidable move apparently.

Cumbersome, though that would quickly be forgotten upon seeing the water-gun. Knowing this was nothing bad and with fake-out likely still dulling ace's reaction, the silver-haired teen chose to do a switch.

A red beam flashed quickly recalling Ace, followed by re-calling Angel back onto the field." Sorry about the hit, Angel. But, we got the lead and with you we will win. And no better way to start than with a dazzling sweet scent then follow with leafage."
In Pokémon: There and Back Again → 2 mos ago Forum: Casual Roleplay
Tristan Glory












A bit irksome to see the attack failed to land, but the growl seemed to work. Now that his head was clear again, Tristan saw a plan forming after the hint of seeing the skiddoo slowed down briefly by the growl.

With how Ace was, this would be the best approach for the fidgety bird." Quick! Ace fire off an ember at the skiddoo to slow it down then wait till it draws close to dodge back with a growl! Once you land go wild with ember!" The silver-haired teen relayed his orders and hoped for the best.
In 🗡 Roses and Daggers 🎕 → 2 mos ago Forum: Casual Roleplay
Mr. V


Time: Evening
Location: Damien Estate
Interactions: Fritz @JJ Doe, Charlotte @Princess, @Helo Leo Smithwood, @PapaOso Cassius Damien
Mentions:
Attire: ???



Having nothing to add for the moment, Mr V remained quiet and standing at the ready; a servant must be unseen and not heard until requested... or whatever nonsense the head server was prattling on about.

Content with letting Fritz and charlotte chat between each other for the moment as he took this time to scan the room. But not the people, the room itself, taking mental notes of the layout and placement of where things were. At times, however, his gaze kept finding its way onto Percy and Weasel (yes he called him weasel, got a problem? Cry about it) where they could be seen dancing and getting along.

Hints of concern etched the corner of his eyes. Seeing the masked stranger being so close and friendly with Lady Olive was worrying, mostly due to being an ally of Fritz, whom gave no reason to distrust, but without knowing the man's motive on top of the pit of doubt ache in his gut whenever looking at Peter.

Not that he had any right to judge, considering the whole gunpowder request and...well just how he was at this party in general just screamed untrustworthy. Sir Fritz's reaction was the proper one really and it was up to him to keep to his words. As if he would ever intend to hurt someone...outside roasting and roasted like pork these fat juicy pigs will get.

* Mhm...roasted pig...Fuck! Keep this up and I'll be drooling as much as King Edin does after looking at his reflection.* A faint rumbling of his stomach..a rumble that very much sounded like begging.* Ugh, sorry about that, gutsy. I promise to fill you with only the best and juiciest and scrumptiest food.* Only the best for his stomach; another small rumble.* Yes yes and pudding. I'm sure Char or Percy got us covered.* Apparently satisfied with the promise, the bothersome hunger ebbed down.

* Wait, where was I again? Oh right, not trusting the two obviously mysterious guys.* He had no real basis for it; perhaps simply just his nerves being jittery and for good reason. Even trying to think of what he planned for would get his heart beating with frantic nervousness. If one good thing came out of this was getting to see his best friend enjoying herself.

Just seeing her smile and laugh did more than enough to settle and harden his nerves.

Nothing to do about the dancing duo, his attention returned to the group in time to catch Fritz mention something about team?"I thought, now that we’re a team…” A team was it?

Mr. V tilted his head in a pondering motion with an actual audible hm as he pictured the three of them and Lady Olive posing together like some kind of...cheesy detective group? Gang?* Maybe..wait! No! Don't get side-tracked!* He could think up some group name at a later date. Or gang? No, stop, damn it!

Shaking his head to dismiss the potential needless wandering and tried to say focused on the conversation.

“Partners in crime, as it were,” he winked at Mr. V and then focused on Lady Vikena again. “I thought you’d give us a more truthful answer than platitudes you’d offer strangers.”

* Was he winking at me? Wait, he isn't coming onto me is he?* He thought with confusion. With how overdramatic nobles could be with... well everything, made discerning anything the rich did difficult to understand.

“There is a thief wandering the ballroom.” he announced brusquely, “they have stolen my watch and left that in my pocket. We must solve this crime immediately.”

Well, there was one thing any could say about Sir Leo, outside being a typical blowhard apparently is his impeccable timing.* Poetic and ironic, I'd say. Just listen to him roar like a lion...sounded more like a seal's bark.* A sly smirk on the corners of Mr. V's lips.

His amusements made all the better by two things. Those fuzzy lion slippers and the fact the mouthy kitty let himself be pickpocketed.* I swear, by ends night I will shake the hand of whoever pranked the schmuck in adorable lion slippers.* (never insult the slippers only the fool wearing them)

And like that, a mystery case had been dropped unexpectedly on their lap or more forced onto them to say, though taking into consideration of where they were and the kind of important vip currently at this party, some being Caesonia's own queen and Prince freezer.

The mere notion of trying to pickpocket at a noble's party was already foolish to do in any pickpocket's eyes, but the count's? As the experts have told him, only those insane or suicidal would dare try. And while his own experience were sparse; never been one for stealing save for some candy or from really obnoxious asshat.

No, that skill belonged to Percy. But, as much as that spicy woman enjoyed causing her brand of trouble, even she wasn't that reckless.

His attention shifting back towards the pair only to find his friend embraced so closely by weasel. Gloved hands clenched. A slow, deep breath, clearly not pleased at the sight but tried to keep from being distracted again.* Please give me a reason to punch him. Any will do.* This little hopeful mental remark aside.

* I can rule her out and no servant would be dumb enough to attempt stealing, well except the cutlery of course. Who would pass up free silverware?* Doubtful any from the village could even get within fifty feet of this place let alone inside. Pondering his musings as his gaze shifted onto Peter's; a sharp glare hidden beneath the mask that would leave Peter a sense of being glared at or at least his hoping with the holes being burned onto the back of his head.

"Excuse my interruption... but if I heard correctly, you mentioned a thief in our midst? Surely not! Not here within the hallowed sanctuary of the esteemed Count's domain." He remarked with a touch of sarcasm. "This is quite unexpected. Luckily for you, I possess a discerning eye for these kinds of…shenanigans, and I just so happen to find myself sufficiently intrigued to entertain such a diversion. How could I not offer my assistance?…This is my father’s little gathering, after all.”

* Do these loudmouth tryhards come in pairs?* Briefly picturing Leo and Cassius in a bathroom discussing plans like teen girls and *...wait, let's add the fuzzy slippers too.* Said slippers appeared into the image prompting a muffled giggle from the silent servant.

Besides the bits of snickering and giggles, Mr. V remained quiet as he observed the commotion. Now, he could give them some advice and hints on finding the thief, but why deprive himself of a most wonderful little show of watching the two chuckleheads strain their minds at the mere notion someone could steal from a noble.

A quick glance towards Cassius, whom he could see fixating Char with a longing gaze.* Yeah, this guy is gonna be useless... Very sharp dresser though.* He could not deny the man's slick costume. Wolf though? doe-eyed puppy was probably more accurate to describe him.

And knowing Charlotte, would probably be adorable as a butterfly detective.

Besides, a servant must be unseen and unheard unless requested, yes?

And like a good servant. He remained ready to give service but not his aid.
 
In Avalia → 2 mos ago Forum: Casual Roleplay
Menzai Isanami




Time: Night

Location: Gaurav

Interactions:

Mentions:

Equipment: White Haori, Gauravian luck charm bracelet, Steel Chain Shirt of Deflection (3 uses per day), Disguise ring




Gaurav


A walk that felt long and taxing, became more bearable upon entering his home. The familiarity, the warmth and the myriad of scents; assorted flowers, their flowery aroma gently permeating the air alongside freshly grown berries, a mix of raspberry and strawberry. Though it was the sense of his family embracing him which soothed his bruised and battered body, the seal's painful after-effect lingered all across his prickling skin.

He thought to take it somewhat slow but knew that the group lagging behind would be coming along shortly, too drained for any more interaction for the night. Only pausing briefly to wash and clean his blood-stained right hand, the cool water stinging his palm; a faint, but sharp intake though thankful for it helped distract from the headache pounding persistently so.

Taking notice of his Gaurav Charm gently hugging his wrist softly clinking and splashing. The charm, consisting of five fangs, each tied to the hair-thin silver strand of spider thread; three of them adult while the remaining two were from adult. Each of them were sharp, save for the smallest at the center, clearly not a wolf’s tooth, but stranger yet, were the ruby red lines seemingly etched throughout it.

The unpleasant thoughts creeping at the fringes, claws scratching faintly still. It seemed whatever had stirred was quite yet finished.

Footsteps nearing the front door reminding the wolf, who then carried on his way towards the main hallway connecting to the room. There, he paused briefly; gazing at the door to his parents room; even as the pounding persisted, he wished to check on them.

Their heartbeats confirmed no irregularities and with it came a bit of relief which lightened the pressure assaulting his body currently, albeit only slightly.

A moment more lingering, Menzai quietly made for his bedroom, the door plain and the least assuming of the door save for a few claw marks at child height.

Hand paused briefly on the doorknob as he acknowledged them, a slow, drawn out exhale through his nose.

An audible wince leaving the battered wolf’s lips, now safe in the privacy of his den. Whatever pretense of strength he had held was finally allowed to rest, though with it came a crushing weight, his own haori, it’s fabric normally light as snow now felt like lead.

His body now sagged forward, tired eyes peering into the room without really seeing.

Vision blurred, head pounding fiercely; shadows crept the edges of his eyes…a low hissing whisper rasping against his flickering ears.

Whoosh

A stark glint suddenly caught his gaze, immediately letting out a small surprise gasp from shock. Heart pounding in his chest..or was it the rap of his mind until he realized it was the mirror placed on the back wall.

And like that, he was back in his room. Dark and quiet save for Menzai’s slight panting. Yet, even without light, the wolf had the room (and the entirety of the house) memorized.

A saving grace in this moment for Menzai’s head was pounding like drums that kept building tempo with each passing second; before long it felt as if the room was spinning.

Unsure of what else to do, he trudged his way through the darkness, each step feeling as if walking through tar.

An unknown amount of time later, a semi-heavy thud followed by the faint clacking of something being knocked over. Some quiet fumbling before his clawed hand found the box of matches, experiencing the first difficulty with the loss of his hand.

A most frustrating and poorly timed experience as both the pounding and his breathing continued to worsen; panic beginning to course icily through his veins. Each failed strike would increase in frustrated aggression

Strike; pant

Strike; Pant!

Strike! Gasp

Strike! Gasp!

Stri-

The warm glow of a newly lit candle crackled to life, illuminating the wolf who had just been gasping, now crouched over the desk and with it finally found the ability to breathe; sweat spilling down his face.

Menzai could do little else but remain crouched, hovering over the candle as he feared doing so might allow the overwhelming sick sensation curling within to take over.

Just as well, with his head still a cacophony of pain, leaving him to work on regaining his breath first before attempting elsewise.

Minutes passed; time he attempted to spend thinking over the events that occurred today though as expected; proved difficult with his mind in such a frazzled state.

Nor the immense weight bearing down on him. So much so that, once the wolf regained his composure, had carefully pushed off the desk where he would gingerly undo the haori, finding himself needing to almost peel the fabric from his skin as if it had nearly melded to flesh.

A relieved sigh as the apparent heavy robe was dropped over the edge of the desk, it’s damaged sleeve barely hanging on by a few threads. A fair representation of how he was feeling in this instance.

Was it over? Menzai could only hope as his barely conscious body wobbled weakly, held up only by his sole arm now. The lack of weight from his left side easily felt, though it was the unsettling sense of still being there, much like the phantom limb phenomena he read about.

A flurry of sickness and confusion wracked the injured wolf’s body; skin feeling hot and cold all over as if inflicted with the flu. He barely acknowledged the shivering or anything around him as he tried to focus on the lone flickering flame, the only protection grounding him.

Slowly the poundings started to die and ebb and with it so too the sensations wracking through him.

Quieter and quieter until the crackling candle and gentle breathing were all that remained. Relief etched his face, thinking the ordeal over finally.

Tap tap tap

The tap of finger on glass. Barely perceptible, and only due to his hearing, was he able to pick it up. The relief, once more turned to confusion.

Scrt scrt scrt

Again…but this time it was closer to claws scratching against glass.

Scrt. scrt Scrt!

On the sound persisted; like nails to a chalkboard to the wolf, whirled in place or as much as capable without removing his arm, being the only thing supporting him.

Turning his head sharply to and fro, scanning each part of his room with slow and deliberate scrutiny.

Nothing.

He was alone. That had not changed and yet the scrt scrt scrt kept clawing with no source seemingly in sight.

The normally calm and reserved wolf started showing desperation and fear.

But saw nothing to warrant. For his room offered no real hiding place, being plain and simple that consisted of a single bed that with a single glance could tell had not been slept on. A single bookshelf holding only two books, the desk Menzai currently leaned against where three photos rested, the center one having been knocked over revealing what had fallen previously.

For a moment he thought to place it back when….

Scrt Scrt Scrrrrrrrrrt!

A pained whine came from the wincing wolf as the drawled out scratch continued.

So loud, now revealing its source as Menzai spun around, where at first he thought to glimpse a terrifying beast standing just outside his room, causing Menzai to try and take a defensive stance, but succeeded only partially as any further would surely make him drop without the desk supporting him.

Realization dawned on him seconds after…what he thought was merely his reflection.
Menzai finally caught a full view of himself and what he saw was far from pleasing. For his skin was nearly ghostly pale and colorful bruises (majority healed by Phia, thankfully); soaked in cold sweat, making the tattoos inscribed over his upper body and back stand out in darker contrast.

i.pinimg.com/originals/da/83/f1/da83f…

( LIke this though the portion of the neck is more at the nape of his neck giving a faint resemblance to a collar)

i.pinimg.com/originals/aa/2a/e7/aa2ae…

(The middle and bottom ones inscribed over his abdomen and lower stomach)

They stood out, like black ink on a blank canvas that seemed to still let off the faintly dark violet glow. Along the etched lines, signs of minor red burns and wrinkling as if they had been digging and burning into his flesh.

Though most eye-catching was the tattoo etched onto his breast, directly over his heart.

th.bing.com/th/id/OIP.9zngdt-W_Tbm-pE…

( LIke this but the wolf in between the twin crescent moons overlapping)

Much like his own eyes, it shared a tiny red glint and were any to take a good, close look might find the tattoo almost appearing like an inky black hole spearing through.

The sister’s blessing….and his curse.

Nothing of what he saw of himself looked pleasing to the eye; images of Darius and Phia’s faces flashed through his mind as he was forced to take in his own gruesome and sickly visage.

All the while, he sought to avoid looking at his left shoulder, but no matter how he tried, the reminder could not escape him.

Scrt! Scrt! Scrt!

It came, yet again. That insufferable scratching sound and then his gaze rested upon his own face.

The pale, sweat soaked face stared back with uncertainty and fear, his breathing beginning to pick up.

Eyes widen in shock as he finally saw it.

Monster


Scrt! Scrt! SCRT!

A set of huge, black feral wolven claws scraped at the mirror’s surface, almost as if scratching at his reflection.

Just then, a wolf’s face flashed and overlapped over the left side of his face then pushed against the glass. Black fur rustling; eyes glowing a fierce bright crimson stared back, malice and bloodlust dripping from its rankled maw.

Scrt! Scrt Scrt!.....Groooowllllllllllllllllll.

Scratching; a bone chilling growl permeated the air astride the acrid stink of blood filling his nose like before, only stale.

Menzai found himself rooted in place; unable to process or understand what he was witnessing as he soon felt pressure gripping down on his body or was it his heart; uncertain if it was fear or the seal.

Whatever it was he was feeling, one thing was for certain. This…this apparition? Beast? Whether real or not…was dangerous.

Blood! Rage!

That feral voice rasped yet again in his mind; clawing and scraping.

It was then that black smoke began to form at the bottom of the mirror; rising like black smog, the stench of blood permeating now mixed the rancor of death filling up the mirror till it surrounded his body in the reflection.

Kill! Danger! Spared them…WHY?!

The ephemeral wolf spat wickedly, rage and lust dripping in it’s every words.

Intruders…threatened…..must protect….why?

Why Deny us…Deny me!

It’s voice slowly became more coherent, as if this beast…this monster was gradually improving or gaining strength and at an scarily alarming rate as it's aggression grew in ferocity every time Menzai denied the mirrored beast.

Denied me…allowed them to live!….Why?!

Protect….must protect…isn’t that……all that matters?!

The beast clawed and snapped at the glass; all the while gradually enlarging and becoming more monstrous; fur sharp like razor sharp needles and rows of vicious teeth sprouting in its maw, all dripped in crimson poison.

You…desire to protect…only to fail!

The wolf growled out; this time, however, almost out of wicked glee as if relishing in his fearful denial.

no.

Menzai whispered in response.

A cruel gravelly chuckle rumbled out of the beast, it’s tongue dragged over the surface.


Failure…only failure awaits without me…

no

You need me…

No

Weak….far too weak….but not me….

No.

You can’t deny me

No.

You can’t run from me

No.

Lies….all the lies…but I know

No.

Wanted to tear….rip…thrash….kill...but you denied us

No.

Wretched Fairies….they will take her…

No


They want to take her from us! Let me end them!

No…

KILL TH-

NO!

Menzai exclaimed in fury, refusing to listen any further to the monster's disgusting mockery; having finally gathered his strength combined with the shock of the beast’s murderous declaration.

To put an end to this, Menzai had quickly followed this rebuke by grabbing his haoi and tossing it over the mirror.

As the robe draped over the glass surface, the remaining seconds of visage from the wolf came with its most wicked chuckle yet with an almost cheshire smile, or as close as a wolf could with those crimson eyes glinting with terrifying glee.

Hahhhhh *black smog exhaling from its twisted maw*….hide and run…ignore me…but the day will come…..you will regret letting them live…until then….I shall dream... for the day I shall savor.... the taste of our enemies…

“ Enough….foul beast and return to your slumber.” Menzai sought to challenge confidently, but could only manage a tired whisper.

Then a most unsettling sound between that of a raspy growl and laugh as Menzai saw a single eye staring back, filled with nothing but repressed malice and anger all directed at him. A spine tingling cold filled the grip pressing down on him at all sides.

None may take her from me…any who dare shall feel my fangs….

With the haori finally covering the mirror fully, the horrific sounds and smell of blood vanished.

Next thing the wolf knew he was slumped against the desk; breathing haggard and rough as his body ached and burned in numerous ways. HIs body is shaking from this terrifying experience with a part of him hoping this to be merely a nightmare.

But he knew this to be real..whether in his mind or not.

The monster that had been in deep slumber; now awake and biding it’s time. Parts of him started to doubt and wonder if he could even trust..

No!

He refused to let this…this…. Beastly instinct to stop him. Now here... not now. Not after coming so far! Not after sacrificing his arm!

No matter how difficult or painful, Menzai would not give in to his own instinct’s extremities. For he was Gaurav’s Guardian and he would do everything to keep his pack safe.

To keep her safe.

These thoughts pushed the cruel words from his mind; comforting him. Enough so to afford him enough energy to stand up, where he would pick up the knocked over picture.

Lifting it up, revealing the picture of a young Trinity and Menzai lounging together against a tree, a book on the boy’s lap. With it came the charm that had been hers with its four fangs; one being his own.

A painful twinge struck his heart as he held them gingerly in his hand. A rush of emotions he had long since buried away started flooding through him.

Such that he could normally resist, but in such an abysmally weak state, it was proving overpowering.

Long pass having had enough this night, Menzai hastily placed the picture back in its place in between the other two. The left picture showcasing the Isanami family pre-Phia all huddled together and much like the previous one, the young boy cub could be seen smiling brilliantly.

The remaining picture had Phia hugging Menzai’s side, but unlike the other photos and to Menzai’s own dismay, could see himself neither returning the hug or smiling.

A heavy sharp exhale through his nose; regretting how he had treated her at first and now it was forever saved in this picture. There were countless better ones…

But these were the ones he kept. Further reminders of his resolve and now with Phia’s original family, along with the brothers would be under his care.

Gripping both of the siblings' charms in his hand, the beaten wolf allowed himself to slump down to the floor; back to the desk.” I must be strong. I will endure through it all…long as I breathe, I will not allow any to harm my pack...not from unknown evils…nor myself..” Clutching the charms in his hand to the point the fangs could be felt against his palm.” For them…for Phia.”

“ For you…Trinity.” Whispering his promise, voice cracking at the end as hugged the charms to his chest, a comforting blanket.

Quietly, the wolf sat there, slumped against the desk. Sleep did not come easy, but the comfort of the charms and exhaustion allowed sleep to take him.

Tears spilled with sullen bitterness and longing.
In Pokémon: There and Back Again → 2 mos ago Forum: Casual Roleplay
Tristan Glory












The silver-haired teen had been stressed and thrown off from all the unexpected surprises. Yet, the soothing sweet scent and witnessing Angel not only succeeding with the strategy, but did so beautifully at.

Now pumped and his mind relaxed once more, Tristan regained his composure with a delicate brush through his silky soft hair." Absolutely splendid!" He called out the compliment which only added to the delight of praises she was getting making her giggle and blush.

From there, Tristan held up her pokeball, quickly recalling her." Stunning work, Angel." Pleased to see this battle going better than the previous one so far. And from it, the teen felt a strange sense of excitement and a teen like him living the rich like him having experience many, but none of them could compare to now.

* Is this what a real battle is meant to feel like?* And if just this was satisfying then..how would victory feel.

A victory earned by his hands and not his family.

Determined and eager to see how this goes, Tristan moved to replace the pokeball.

A red beam of light as a scared chirp rang out as Ace stood revealed with a surprised like squawk.* Ugh....I really got to work on Ace's scaredy-cat antics.* Something he had no clue on; have to wait for later." No need to fear, Ace! Your opponent is asleep! Just keep your distance!"

His trainers words helped Ace to see, that indeed his opponent asleep which did help comfort the fiery birb." Ace! Keep your distance and let loose embers, but first a growl for good measure! Make sure to keep your guard up too!" Tristan gave the orders.

One thing was evidently clear. Rushing into direct battle was definitely wrong, defensive and range was the safe bet until he had Ramos on their last leg, only then would he risk a full confrontation.
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