OliveYou

To Hold Back The Dark

Hwei Iosusa

^{Dogfall | @HyliaIncarnate}

---

Far before the bells began to toll, Hwei was awake. In a nook of the soldier's barracks, as far away from chaos as one can hope, he sits, head bowed, before his altar. He's been at it for a few hours; he sleeps rarely these days, preferring to spend his time in fervent meditation than unaware in sleep. The younguns need it more than him. Instead, breathing in rhythmically the scent of heady incense, mantras whispered beneath his breath, Hwei asks the gods once again for mercy.

When the bells toll, he is ready. Putting out his incense and rolling up the contents of his altar - a tiny carved figure, an incense holder, a mat, a tiny book of prayers, and two smooth, dimpled stones - into a small pouch, he gets to his feet, passing by others as they prepare their equipment for the battle ahead. He, however, has precious little to prepare. "Earthly things are but a burden," goes the saying. Still praying, he arrives at the gates just in time to watch Algrimar's flames light up the night sky.

Hwei takes a moment to reflect on such a sight. Surely, the flames of eternal punishment must be similar to these flames of pure evil. In order to escape such judgement, Aleathen's directive is clear: fight on the side of the light. Hwei focuses his energy, priming his body for battle. His senses, heightened by his spiritual state, catch the conversation happening at the side gate, left unguarded by the sigil. A traveler, begging for protection?

No. Hwei would be foolish to disregard the way his skin crawls at the voice of the stranger outside their gates. Assuming the stance of speed, he darts towards the gate, vaults his way up the wall, and throws himself down to the other side with his leg outstretched, intending to hit the Grim (for what could it be, but a Grim?) square in the face. He doesn't know if his kick connects, but what matters is that the darkness is kept out.

"Strongholds aren't strongholds if they are opened, you know," he says, feeling the goddess's blessing filling him, spilling over the brim, heart as sturdy and peaceful as the walls at his back. "Aren't you a sneaky one, though? It almost worked, too."

Apotheosis of the Leviathan (a 1x1 mecha kaiju mashup RP between Stern Algorithm and OliveYou)

Cal rolls his way over to Daphnis and begins his check. Daphnis - as always - seems to resist being touched by anybody, but she begrudgingly lets him complete his checkup without resistance. She makes a face as Tirapon enters the lab, not doing anything to hide her own distaste. In this case, Phoebe can sympathize. Having someone in your head is weird. Tirapon is quiet and unobtrusive, but even so, Phoebe would rather keep her thoughts to herself.

"All done," Cal announces. "No injuries present. She's good to go."

Upon being granted their freedom, the remaining three titans turn to each other.

"I'll probably stay here," Atlas says quietly, never one to draw attention to himself. "Me too," Calypso says.

Phoebe frowns. She knows there's no reason to go along, and that she'd most likely be a nuisance, but... this is her chance to see a kaiju up close! Maybe there's something to be gained. Maybe, if she studies it hard enough, she'll learn what's been holding her back from a full transformation during practice. There's got to be something she's missing. And truthfully, she wants to see Talos in action. She can only attribute it to the kaiju blood in her, making her eager for a fight, even if she's only watching.

"I'll come," she says, praying that Dr. Park's offer was genuine, and ignoring Daphnis's scowl. "I want to, um, study the kaiju's attack patterns."

"I'll accompany," Cal suggests, seeing the sour look on Daphnis's face and wanting to preserve the peace inside the Achilles. Even if Phoebe's intentions are good, anything can set her off. This way, he can keep an eye on her. "Just in case you need any care last-minute."

---

Anvi rolls through the diagnostic tests easily, keeping the nervous energy out the best she can. Thankfully, now she can roll her eyes at Dr. McCulloch's speech. She couldn't care less about the secretary's choices for this battle, nor for the weird CETM politics Dr. McCulloch seems to be embroiled in. She's seen the power of the titan kids, and she's seen Hyper Man X. As far as she's concerned, the aliens aren't going to care if they're killed by a monster, a mech, or an alien. Whatever gets the job done.

Still. Hearing that little speech gives Anvi some newfound courage. She settles Talos right above the water and accelerates forward, leaving a satisfying wake behind her as she advances to The Gate. There's no sign of the kaiju yet, but the sensors on her screen are going crazy, giving her red signals that do nothing to calm her nerves. She braces for impact, waiting till she's almost over the kaiju to dive into the ocean.

That is, if it doesn't surface first.

Apotheosis of the Leviathan (a 1x1 mecha kaiju mashup RP between Stern Algorithm and OliveYou)

Anvi squints through the heavy pressure as it settles on her brain. She's still not used to the sensation, but she assumes it's a good thing. Not that anyone bothers explaining anything to the pilots.

"You got it," Anvi says, relived that Dr. Yunus is giving directions instead of Dr. McCulloch. Honestly, she sort of expected two combatants to be chosen for today's mission; safety in numbers, and all that? But it's just like the CETM to throw its talent into the deep end. Even so, it's still better than the streets of the UK.

Anvi maneuvers Talos to the elevator and into the sunlight. It's mid-morning, and the waters of The Bay look almost inviting, even when surrounded by weapons and military facilities. Seeing it in the light makes Anvi's stomach feel a little funny. This is real; this isn't just a spar or a simulation. She's not usually afraid of a fight, but even with Hyperian protections and super strength, she's forced to face the very real danger of this invasion. She's seen the wreckage. She knows what these things are capable of.

No, no. Anvi flexes a giant metal fist, finding comfort in the sensation of human and mech acting as one. It's go time.

Apotheosis of the Leviathan (a 1x1 mecha kaiju mashup RP between Stern Algorithm and OliveYou)

Dr. Park's words sting like venom, and it's only by clenching her fists and biting her tongue that Phoebe resists the urge to blow up in his face. It's not fair. She's trying her best every sparring session, and she's getting better, she is! But compared to way Daphnis slides into her kaiju form - as smooth as smooth can be - Phoebe is the ugly duckling. An awkward, stuttering failure.

"Understood, sir," Daphnis says, smugness oozing out of every pore. "I'll show Madam Secretary where she went wrong."

When Dr. Park's back is turned, Calypso reaches for Phoebe's hand and pats it once, silently shaking her head. Phoebe knows her sister thinks it's better to grin and bear it than face repercussions, but Phoebe just can't help herself. She can feel her antenna raising off her scalp and the heat building in her face. Everyone in the CETM is playing favorites and she's so sick of it!

Before she can open her mouth and get herself in a heap of trouble, she hears the voice of someone she knows:

"Medic reporting for duty."

From down the hall, Cal appears, and Phoebe's mood instantly brightens. The medic may look unfriendly, but he's surprisingly good at listening and giving Phoebe advice when she feels like she's about to explode. He raises his hand in greeting.

"Perfect! I need a check up right now," Daphnis says, her usual snooty tone mixed with a sense of honest urgency. Is she actually nervous?

"Mm," is Cal's only response, and as he passes Phoebe, he gives her a little wink. "Dr. Park, anything in particular you'd like me to check up on?"

To Hold Back The Dark

Hwei Iosusa

---

21 - 5'10 - Dogfalls

Light Bearer

---

Personality:

• Relaxed
  
  
  • Although beating back the evil hordes can hardly be called a simple task, Hwei approaches it with a sort of carelessness that often invites scorn. Underneath his can't-be-bothered attitude, though, is a strong sense of identity and indeed, "inner peace," that fuels him in his quest to restore light to the world. His calming nature spills out onto those around him, filling them with a sense of peace in otherwise hopeless situations.
• Curious and open-minded
  
  
  • Hwei has always wanted to travel the world. Sure, the conditions may not be perfect, but with the goddess's blessing protecting him, he can't think of reason to hide away at home. He is open and friendly with new people and new experiences, even when perhaps he shouldn't be. He gets distracted easily.
• Noble
  
  While Hwei would never call himself a hero - that's a bit too serious for him - he can't turn a blind eye to the evil of the world. Witnessing much of the destruction first-hand lit the fire inside him, and watching the brave sacrifices of the light bearers convinced him to join the fight. Whenever possible, he will try to save others. He has a particular soft spot for children.

---

History: A dancer and acrobat of the floating circus moored in Dogfalls, Hwei enjoyed an exciting life of performing till the abyss came upon the world. Although Dogfalls was protected, Hwei could not ignore the terrible things happening around him, and sooner or later, he felt like he had to do something more than make merry to the people of the city. It was time to join the fight. An encounter with a Light Bearer only strengthened that belief, and it wasn't long after that that he received his own sigil from the goddess of light.

---

Spells and Abilities:

• Martial Arts
  
  
  • Hwei practices a type of martial arts that serve as the basis for his dancing and can also be used for combat. His durability and reflexes are both good. He excels at hand-to-hand and one-on-one encounters, but falters when faced with multiple enemies or long-range attacks.
• Spirit Stances
  
  
  • Hwei can assume certain stances that give him boosts in defense, offense, speed, and healing. They only last for a few minutes, however, and using them depletes his spirit energy. The more rhythmic and fluid his combat is, and the less damage he takes, the more his "spirit energy gauge" refills.
• Spirit Arms
  
  
  • Once Hwei has saved up enough spirit energy, he can manifest extra arms to aid him in battle. They only last for a few minutes but are very powerful. (Sometimes he uses them out of combat to complete menial tasks, like folding laundry and washing dishes.)

---

Weapons or tools:

• Dancewear
  
  
  • Traditional dancewear, consisting of sandals, loose pants, and jewelry. Hwei's weakest point is his chest, which is left uncovered, but he can use the loose scarf around his waist to bait and distract enemies. His jewelry likewise provides a shining effect which can blind enemies.
• Gauntlets
  
  
  • Protect his hands from harm and pack a harder punch.

---

Miscellaneous Information:

Hwei is highly religious and worships quite a few "lesser" gods and goddesses. When he's not fighting or performing, he can be found praying, meditating, or performing ritual dances in front of his pocket altar, which he always carries with him.

To Hold Back The Dark

Cool. Would be more fun to have them all together, but idk what everyone else is thinking.
Is my character approved?

To Hold Back The Dark

Hider

Hwei Iosusa

---

21 - 5'10 - Dogfalls

Light Bearer

---

Personality:

• Relaxed
  
  
  • Although beating back the evil hordes can hardly be called a simple task, Hwei approaches it with a sort of carelessness that often invites scorn. Underneath his can't-be-bothered attitude, though, is a strong sense of identity and indeed, "inner peace," that fuels him in his quest to restore light to the world. His calming nature spills out onto those around him, filling them with a sense of peace in otherwise hopeless situations.
• Curious and open-minded
  
  
  • Hwei has always wanted to travel the world. Sure, the conditions may not be perfect, but with the goddess's blessing protecting him, he can't think of reason to hide away at home. He is open and friendly with new people and new experiences, even when perhaps he shouldn't be. He gets distracted easily.
• Noble
  
  While Hwei would never call himself a hero - that's a bit too serious for him - he can't turn a blind eye to the evil of the world. Witnessing much of the destruction first-hand lit the fire inside him, and watching the brave sacrifices of the light bearers convinced him to join the fight. Whenever possible, he will try to save others. He has a particular soft spot for children.

---

History: A dancer and acrobat of the floating circus moored in Dogfalls, Hwei enjoyed an exciting life of performing till the abyss came upon the world. Although Dogfalls was protected, Hwei could not ignore the terrible things happening around him, and sooner or later, he felt like he had to do something more than make merry to the people of the city. It was time to join the fight. An encounter with a Light Bearer only strengthened that belief, and it wasn't long after that that he received his own sigil from the goddess of light.

---

Spells and Abilities:

• Martial Arts
  
  
  • Hwei practices a type of martial arts that serve as the basis for his dancing and can also be used for combat. His durability and reflexes are both good. He excels at hand-to-hand and one-on-one encounters, but falters when faced with multiple enemies or long-range attacks.
• Spirit Stances
  
  
  • Hwei can assume certain stances that give him boosts in defense, offense, speed, and healing. They only last for a few minutes, however, and using them depletes his spirit energy. The more rhythmic and fluid his combat is, and the less damage he takes, the more his "spirit energy gauge" refills.
• Spirit Arms
  
  
  • Once Hwei has saved up enough spirit energy, he can manifest extra arms to aid him in battle. They only last for a few minutes but are very powerful. (Sometimes he uses them out of combat to complete menial tasks, like folding laundry and washing dishes.)

---

Weapons or tools:

• Dancewear
  
  
  • Traditional dancewear, consisting of sandals, loose pants, and jewelry. Hwei's weakest point is his chest, which is left uncovered, but he can use the loose scarf around his waist to bait and distract enemies. His jewelry likewise provides a shining effect which can blind enemies.
• Gauntlets
  
  
  • Protect his hands from harm and pack a harder punch.

---

Miscellaneous Information:

Hwei is highly religious and worships quite a few "lesser" gods and goddesses. When he's not fighting or performing, he can be found praying, meditating, or performing ritual dances in front of his pocket altar, which he always carries with him.

Are all the light bearers in one place together, or will they separated by stronghold?

Apotheosis of the Leviathan (a 1x1 mecha kaiju mashup RP between Stern Algorithm and OliveYou)

Standing in the middle of the command center in front of giant screens and the most powerful people in the CETM certainly makes one feel antsy and anxious, if not outright queasy. Phoebe isn't sure whether to feel relived or disappointed when her name isn't called by Secretary Oleander. It's not like she envies the stress and overwhelming expectations placed on Anvi, but at the same time, energy is bubbling underneath her skin, and with it, a craving for a fight. For blood. For war.

It's a feeling so familiar, yet disconcerting every time she experiences it. Maybe Dr. Park will let her spar before they are sent to their quarters for the day; more likely, they'll all watch the attack and dissect it, pick apart the Colossus' flaws and take note of the alien's weaknesses. Then maybe they'll spar.

She hopes so. Beside her, Calypso and Atlas seem unbothered by the Secretary's decision; Daphnis, however, gives a little sniff. Probably thinking that she'd be better suited to the job. Her mood brightens when she's picked as backup. Oh boy, Phoebe thinks. She's probably going to lord that over us for weeks.

She glances to her left, trying not to be obvious as she checks out the pilot chosen for today's mission. She's spared with Anvi briefly before; the girl is wily, and carries a violent streak much like herself, but Phoebe can't imagine how it feels to use a machine instead of your own monstrous flesh and blood to beat back an enemy.

As they're shuffled away, Phoebe steals a glance at Shinobu, who looks as gentle and unreachable as ever. Her heart gives a squeeze despite herself. It's been a few days since they sparred. These days, he seems wearier than ever. The launch couldn't have come at a better time. It's not as if she likes him -- she barely even knows him. But she admires his spirit in the face of so many trials, and his patience despite her many mess-ups during training reminds her of her favorite medic.

Speaking of which, maybe Cal will be in to do checkups today. She wonders if he likes the mechs or hates them.

--

Anvi breathes out slowly as her name -- well, the name of her mech -- is called. Dr. McCulloch is no doubt over the moon about that, even if Anvi is too outspoken (aka, too human) for the Project Colossus team head. But the same thing that makes Anvi a bad soldier makes her a fantastic pilot. She's watched enough alien attacks to know that they don't play by the rules; so then, why should she? Chthonia is just too predictable.

Snide thoughts aside, Anvi does understand the importance of this moment. That's why she suppresses the urge to roll her eyes at Dr. McCulloch and gives her the response she's looking for:

"Yes, ma'am." However, she can't resist flipping her hair over her shoulder on the way out. There's no way she's going to be caught slacking in front of Daphnis, of all people; Anvi hates that snake, and having to work together during a kaiju attack would not be easy nor fun. Now, if it were Ruth-Ann... Looking down at her fellow pilot, currently engaged in twisting her hands over each other over and over again, Anvi pats her head.

"I'll be back soon, okay?" She promises. Ruth-Ann looks up at her blankly, but Anvi knows she's listening. She can sorta feel it, the way she can feel Nils' mind vibrating or the radio-static hum of Chthonia's brain.

Leaving the command room for the loading dock, Anvi smooths down her skintight flight suit. It's a fine suit - moisture-wicking, high-tech, polymer blend, all black - but it makes her feel naked without Talos's protective shell around her. She throws her hair into a quick bun so it doesn't get in her face and steps onto the loading elevator, watching the lights flash and the bay doors open, throwing light on the mech stationed in the garage - her very own.

She's not nervous, not really. Maybe it will sink in later, the weight of it all; but right now, she's just anxious to get into the mech and get this over with.

Talos's purple coating is lovely and burnished, and she runs a hand along the surface before entering the cockpit. The space inside the mech is small, but Anvi squeezes herself into the pilot's seat without issue. Her comms activate automatically, and she takes a moment to get comfortable, wiggling around in the seat until she feels secure. The door behind her closes with a hiss, locking her into the mech and her mission. She reaches for the controls, reveling in the feel of it all: the handles, perfectly shaped to her grip; the gentle hum of the core, its roar blocked by her earpieces; and most of all, the rumbling, rattling, swelling feeling of so many pieces of machinery working in perfect harmony. It's no wonder why Ruth-Ann loves it in here. The technology on display is magical.

Anvi pushes her thrusters forward, and Talos comes alive.

"Let's get this show on the road," she says, letting the eagerness bleed into her voice. "Where am I going, Doc?"

Shoujo⁴: Hatsukoi Reunion

I return!!!! Once again, many apologies for the delay. I hope this post can re-spark the fire a little bit!

Shoujo⁴: Hatsukoi Reunion

🇫‌ 🇺‌ 🇯‌ 🇮‌ 🇪‌ 🇮‌ 🇰‌ 🇮‌ 🇨‌ 🇭‌ 🇮‌

^@Vertigo

---

When lunch rolls around, Eikichi is doing a bad job of staying nonchalant. He can hardly sit still, fidgeting like a small boy in the doctor’s waiting room. Maybe now, him and Suzuka can say more than five words to each other. In fact, now seems like the right time to break up his groupie and rescue her from a sticky situation—

“Ohohoho!”

—then again, maybe not.

The sudden appearance of Arashiyama is enough to make the already busy classroom a pandemonium, and Eikichi watches in awe as his classmates all but salute the third year. With that speech, maybe he should too. Arashiyama has always been… intense. He’s not scared of her, of course not — but he is wary. She commands attention in ways he’ll never be able to. And that makes her a threat, if she ever decided to turn her wrath upon him.

Glancing back at Suzuka, he sees that Mikako has gotten ahold of her first and seems to be spoiling her. Not surprising. Suzuka has always needed someone to take care of her, after all, and Mikako has always been motherly. It’s just…

Well, it used to be him.

And it’s not that he’s jealous! But there’s always been a shard of hope that Suzuka would return, just like there’s always been a tiny Suzu-shaped hole in his chest since she left. He imagined their reunion a little differently, though. Has he changed so much that she doesn’t want to be friends with him anymore?

That thought is weird and hard and not fun, which is why he does what any 17 year old, when confronted with such confusing feelings, would consider the logical course of action: he goes outside to sulk. Eikichi grabs his lunch, sneaks out of the classroom (Easy, since Arashiyama-senpai is speaking in a voice loud enough for three of her), and stalks out into the hallway. He’s so busy feeling sour and bittersweet and lonely that he doesn’t notice the figure barreling toward him—

Wham!

—till it’s too late to stop. Knocked to his feet by an unknown assailant, and already in a not-so-pleasant mood, Eikichi’s first reaction is to lash out.

“Ow! Watch where you’re going! This is a school for humans, not cannonballs!” he snaps, rubbing his head, which feels like it just collided with a steel beam. "Didja forget the part about no running in the halls?"

It's only when he's picked himself up from the ground that he recognizes the unstoppable force in front of him. Wait, isn't that Ryuu? The one everyone whispers about getting into fights and stealing purses and breaking up gangs? The one who's bad news?

Eikichi groans. Of all the people to run into, it just had to be the delinquent, huh?