“Huuaaaaaa. . . .” Akito whispers softly at the sight opening up before him. Plants and greenery, almost all common, but with a few rarities, but all inside! A little patch of earth while still inside. The fresh clean smell of it rushes at him as the door opens and he can't help but take a deep breath, trying to take it all in. Looking over as Hiro explains about the indoor garden, his face lit up like a child’s in wonder. Taking the hint he steps down into the garden, his head snapping this way and that causing his hair to sway almost wildly in it's high pony.
“I would love to see the other ones some time. . .” he whispers just as soft as before. His hands reach out, brushing against the tall grasses and the broad fern leaves. It isn't until he is once more addressed by the prince that he realizes he's acting childish and his hands snap behind his back. Turning towards Hiro he snaps to attention and listens intently. He refrains from wondering aloud about the prince's clear distaste for the war, however it does sting quite a bit. 'If he hates the war, and I am it's hero, I do not see this turning out well. Battle is all I know, and if he really hates it. . .I wonder if he already hates me. . .'
Thinking it best not to dwell his eyes drop once the young man is no longer talking to him. “There is not much to share highness. After losing my parents to a raiding party, I was adopted by the captain and have been basically a soldier since. I was only a child, but he agreed to train me. . .I. . .Don't have much of interest about me. . .Sorry. . .” His eyes remain on the ground, one hand coming to slide across the spot where Hoko is resting on impulse. Unable to really think of something intelligent to ask about the prince he blurts out the first thing that comes to mind. “Why do you hate the war?” He catches his tongue right after saying this, taking a step back with his eyes still down. “Forgive me, I just, the way you spoke of me, I. . . .” His eyes press closed as he waits for whatever his bumbling tongue has incurred from this most powerful man.
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Hahah, love the vision :P Anyways, an underground source that provides baseline power would be an interesting aspect. Maybe the angels set it up to help. Perhaps it could provide the bare necessities, and the towns were built around outlets for it. Sound good? That would mean that they would use other forms of power for things like vehicles (Still like the steam idea :P) but there would be a fail safe if the town gets mostly trashed on accident.
I can agree to the corruption. After all, it is human nature *Sigh*
Glad you like the kiddies idea. I don't want the demon getting outed. . . But I will not deny the possibility. In fact, I can see it happening, but then I get sad for the little ones :P
Hmmmm. . .I still like the idea of the angel rushing in to save the church and then stopping dead when he spots the demon dressed as a preacher and with kids hanging off of him with big happy smiles :P The image is just great. . .So, I'd like to stick with that idea. The angel rushing to the rescue only to get stopped by the sight of the demon being a “good boy”.
I see it all very balanced at the beginning of the RP. Basically the war is going nowhere fast and for some reason most see no problem with that. Like my guy. I'm also getting an image of my angel. A minor nobody really. . .Poor guy.
Hmmm. . . . .Church is a two story thing, stone, with one of those round stain glass windows that has somehow managed to survive over the years with only a few repairs. Bug stone cross, the ones with the circle. . .The area outside the town dusty, hard packed dirt not sand, with tufts of grass here and there, the tall tough stuff. It's got a couple swings and a see saw in the side yard along with one of those old spiny disks with the bars. Like a merry-go-round without the animals and powered by kids pushing it. The trade area is a couple dozen yards away and consists mostly of simple but sturdy stalls that are set up on either side of the road leading into town, with a dirt and gravel mixed path leading to the church between a couple stalls. . . The stalls are set up along the road, but not orderly. More of a smattering. . . Oh, and of course, the church has an underground shelter. Fortified stone and strong metal.
What do you think? I think we're almost done and can move on to character soon. . . .Wanna poke at plot a bit though? We have a great idea for the meeting and interactions, but do we wanna think about the greater picture for a little while? Or wait until we know the world better. . . .?
I can agree to the corruption. After all, it is human nature *Sigh*
Glad you like the kiddies idea. I don't want the demon getting outed. . . But I will not deny the possibility. In fact, I can see it happening, but then I get sad for the little ones :P
Hmmmm. . .I still like the idea of the angel rushing in to save the church and then stopping dead when he spots the demon dressed as a preacher and with kids hanging off of him with big happy smiles :P The image is just great. . .So, I'd like to stick with that idea. The angel rushing to the rescue only to get stopped by the sight of the demon being a “good boy”.
I see it all very balanced at the beginning of the RP. Basically the war is going nowhere fast and for some reason most see no problem with that. Like my guy. I'm also getting an image of my angel. A minor nobody really. . .Poor guy.
Hmmm. . . . .Church is a two story thing, stone, with one of those round stain glass windows that has somehow managed to survive over the years with only a few repairs. Bug stone cross, the ones with the circle. . .The area outside the town dusty, hard packed dirt not sand, with tufts of grass here and there, the tall tough stuff. It's got a couple swings and a see saw in the side yard along with one of those old spiny disks with the bars. Like a merry-go-round without the animals and powered by kids pushing it. The trade area is a couple dozen yards away and consists mostly of simple but sturdy stalls that are set up on either side of the road leading into town, with a dirt and gravel mixed path leading to the church between a couple stalls. . . The stalls are set up along the road, but not orderly. More of a smattering. . . Oh, and of course, the church has an underground shelter. Fortified stone and strong metal.
What do you think? I think we're almost done and can move on to character soon. . . .Wanna poke at plot a bit though? We have a great idea for the meeting and interactions, but do we wanna think about the greater picture for a little while? Or wait until we know the world better. . . .?
Yeah, I agree. A fairly small number of kinds of beasts that have been tamed. And since the towns are so isolated and put in places with natural protection, the further they move out from the village the more unusual the beasts.
I agree about the town set-ups. Maybe a few more open places on the open plains and stuff, but most places deep in wilderness and away from other towns.
Yes, humans, good. Agreed.
Okay, so were going with the “Magic is within” rather than “The magic is all around us” setting. I can work with that. . . . .Hmmmmmm. . . . . .I like the superstition thing :P
Oki, oki, oki. . . . Do we wanna poke a plot a little bit, or is it character time?
I agree about the town set-ups. Maybe a few more open places on the open plains and stuff, but most places deep in wilderness and away from other towns.
Yes, humans, good. Agreed.
Okay, so were going with the “Magic is within” rather than “The magic is all around us” setting. I can work with that. . . . .Hmmmmmm. . . . . .I like the superstition thing :P
Oki, oki, oki. . . . Do we wanna poke a plot a little bit, or is it character time?
As long as you let me throw in rivers and lakes and the like without having to prove it exists(Since likely it won't) then I think we can work this :P The coven is actually less like a witch coven and more like a well established underground society that already has several footholds in the larger townships, and one small one in the smaller inland villages. There still aren't enough for them to be a major power, but they are moving along well. I would have to research a bit to figure out the war stuff, but sounds okay for now.
Hmmm. . . .I think we've got almost enough to get started. The other setting we can build as we go along. . . .For the plot. I was thinking that your guy being left behind would actually be a significant thing, signaling that something not right is going on, and maybe even he not being the only one. Like, some time down the road finding almost a trail of newborns leading to something. . . . .Ideas? I don't wanna lay out the plot completely, but does this sound like a good vague idea?
Hmmm. . . .I think we've got almost enough to get started. The other setting we can build as we go along. . . .For the plot. I was thinking that your guy being left behind would actually be a significant thing, signaling that something not right is going on, and maybe even he not being the only one. Like, some time down the road finding almost a trail of newborns leading to something. . . . .Ideas? I don't wanna lay out the plot completely, but does this sound like a good vague idea?
I find the idea of forming a universe where the first races to either travel or be pulled into space happen to be the "perfect" races to rule the entire universe. I little. . . .Convenient, but not impossible. I would like to note a point of interest that, on the whole, your main species seem to have almost exclusively a kind of hive mentality, making them interestingly compatible and bringing up questions on just how, or I should say what, you personally see as a perfect ruling body.
Oh, and by individual ruling bodies I meant the personal laws each planet holds. Like, the council runs the empire, but the Uetie have their sub rulers of the queens and so forth. You know, now that I look at it, you yourself state several times that there are multiple governments so now I am confused. . . . .
I can not say with 100% certainty that I completely understand all the math, but despite my lack of full comprehension, it seems sound. I'm not just saying that. It really looks quite comprehensive.
I am not sure what to make of the fact that they break their own rules of noninterference. I may be getting just a little to Star Trek but it seems a little wrong for such an expansive peace oriented ruling body to carry on a "Do as I say, not as I do" policy.
That's all I can pull off the top of my head. Sorry if any of this is wrong/annoys you.
Oh, and by individual ruling bodies I meant the personal laws each planet holds. Like, the council runs the empire, but the Uetie have their sub rulers of the queens and so forth. You know, now that I look at it, you yourself state several times that there are multiple governments so now I am confused. . . . .
I can not say with 100% certainty that I completely understand all the math, but despite my lack of full comprehension, it seems sound. I'm not just saying that. It really looks quite comprehensive.
I am not sure what to make of the fact that they break their own rules of noninterference. I may be getting just a little to Star Trek but it seems a little wrong for such an expansive peace oriented ruling body to carry on a "Do as I say, not as I do" policy.
That's all I can pull off the top of my head. Sorry if any of this is wrong/annoys you.
England and Romania, sounds good! So, do we want there to be a large central city and then smaller provinces ruled by the local barons and such however all under king's rule, or the kingdom all being ruled directly by the king with only the equivalent of a mayor in each town? Also, how big, relative to the surrounding kingdoms, do we want our kingdom? The local head honcho badass? The small kingdom surrounded by bigger bully kingdoms? I was also wondering about racial rivalries. . .Oh, and did I mention I wanted to be the warrior? I forget. . . .
I like the ides of the kingdom being kinda small but with a decent fighting force. Not really interested in joining the infrequent wars that break out in the surrounding kingdoms however often times ending up as the battlefield for these conflicts. As such the kingdom has gotten very good at rebuilding. I see social stigmas between the races. Not too sever however with most people believing in the stereotypes about the other races(i.e. Dwarves smelling and drinking a lot, elves being naturally arrogant, beastmen being uncivilized, ect. . .) But those are my thoughts. Yours?
For magic do you wanna go with the base four, base six, base four or six with their sub divisions, or come up with our own oddball set of magics? Oh, and if you have no idea what I'm talking about, feel free to ask :P
I like the ides of the kingdom being kinda small but with a decent fighting force. Not really interested in joining the infrequent wars that break out in the surrounding kingdoms however often times ending up as the battlefield for these conflicts. As such the kingdom has gotten very good at rebuilding. I see social stigmas between the races. Not too sever however with most people believing in the stereotypes about the other races(i.e. Dwarves smelling and drinking a lot, elves being naturally arrogant, beastmen being uncivilized, ect. . .) But those are my thoughts. Yours?
For magic do you wanna go with the base four, base six, base four or six with their sub divisions, or come up with our own oddball set of magics? Oh, and if you have no idea what I'm talking about, feel free to ask :P
As Enasi moves in close, slipping his hands into the Nightmare Guardian's it is almost too much for the white haired male however he manages to say what he has to, his own hands taking a tighter grip on the red head's than strictly necessary. His own heart, already a wreck from the night before, throbs once more like it has a fresh wound in it at the thought of the little fairy being loose in his realm. However as Enasi moves away, his hands sliding from the grip of those pale fingers he knows that the smaller male is going through his own hell as he tries to process what's happening. For the first time in memory Enasi uses his claws, sinking them first into his counterparts arm, then as the scrap further and further closed his grip shifts to hold just his sleeve.
Seishu understands. 'He's clinging to me to keep himself from rocketing off after the boy. Damn that little brat! Why did he have to turn out to be some interdemensional courier!' He growls low, earning him a set of downcast eyes as Kaila thinks the growl was for him. Seishu reaches out and touches his second's shoulder before slipping an arm around Enasi and leading him to the edge of camp. The rest of the denizens watch them go, settling into their normal routine seeing as their guardian seems busy. Kaila's team follows on his heels, unsure of what's happened but knowing that their master needs them. As soon as they reach the edge of camp Seishu turns on his heel to address them.
“Rue is an fairy minion from the Dream Realm who, as we left, was coming into his power.” He knows half the team has already met the boy, however they stay silent and listen as he states things they already know, and some things they didn't. “All we could really tell is that he was able to fly very, very fast, and I guess just moments ago he found out just how fast he can go. I felt him break into this realm.” The normal looks and sounds of shock and surprise are completely absent from the team as they listen, however the feelings are there, just hiding beneath the surface. “That little guy has been fascinated with me since I arrived at the palace in the dream realm, and I now consider him one of my own little ones.”
Looking off in the direction he felt the energy the guardian bites his lip. “He broke through somewhere near the palace. No doubt Gin will get a hold of him before we can, but I refuse to leave him in that bastard's hands for long.” Looking back to the group he looks over them all quickly before making his decision.'They are not going to like this' “Tiski, Lan, Ran, and Jentou, you are all staying here. I need you to take the camp down and melt back into the forest. You all felt the wave, and Gin might have as well. He may have forgotten the feel, but there is no way he's forgotten what it means.” All but Jentou nod at these instructions, the robed male looking rather confused and more than a little panicked.
Laying a hand on Enasi's he gives it a quick squeeze before gently prying his fingers off and moving over to the youth. Taking hold of Jentou's shoulders he looks him straight in the eyes. “I don't have time to explain further. Jentou, you will stay here. You will do as you are told by Tiski, Lan, and Ran, and you will not follow us.” Jentou sill looks frightened, that is until Seishu leans in and gives him a light kiss, whispering, “I will not let anything happen to Kaila. On my life. On my word.” He seems to calm at this, turning to his brother and giving him a tight hug. Lan, Ran, and Tiski all bow to their guardian before carefully taking Jentou from Kaila and leading him off into the crowd. They understand their silent orders not to let him out of sight.
Turning back to the remaining people he gives Tyar a nod. In a dark flash the boy is gone, replaces by it's normal shadow like form, and an instant later it is gone. Not really bound by the laws of physics in any way, Tyar will be the first of their group to locate Rue and report back to them. Turning back to Enasi Seishu offers him a light smile, kissing him gently before scooping the man into his arms. “Enasi, we will get him back, alive. I swear this to you.” His wings snap out, ready for takeoff. Behind Kaila wings of pure fire erupt, the black and purple flames jumping about erratically while still remaining in the shape of bat wings. As they crackle and writhe the heat coming off of them is almost comforting. With a nod to Kaila, Seishu takes off with his love in his arms, and his second at his back.
~*~*~*~*~
Every nightmare denizen in the area felt the little fairy's arrival, and in no time they converged on the spot. Rue was too weak from the sudden jolt and increasing amount of negative energy seeping into his system to put up much of a fight even if he'd wanted to. However from what he'd learned from Seishu he knew better and just let them drag him off towards the large palace in the distance. Despite the sickness and his captive's less than gentle treatment, Rue can not help but marvel at the beauty of the nightmare realm. However now that he is actually in the palace and facing down the being that took Seishu's realm from him all of his child like wonder is gone.
'If I am really, really lucky I will be rescued before this guy fries me or filets me' He thinks absentmindedly, his head a little light from all the negativity. No longer in direct contact with the ground of the realm helps, but only slightly.
Gin sits silently on the throne, his mind jumping from here to there, unable to decide if this is an attack, a diversion, or an accident. 'A surge of positive energy was reported in the forest of energy, but our scouts fond nothing. Not even a trace of it when they searched the area. There was actually an increase in negative energy. Now, we have this obvious weakling appearing out of nowhere, his entrance doing ten times as much damage as any attack he could hope to achieve with an assault. He's pathetic. Look at him! He can barely stand. . .' Letting out a long breath he snarls slightly, prompting the boy to be brought closer with a wave of his hand.
Rue does his best to keep his footing however at the last a minion plants her foot in the middle of his back and knocks him face down on the floor. The denizens around the room laugh and Rue has to remind himself that these are precious ones to Seishu. 'They are just misguided right now. Some may even be spies for the ones who are fighting to restore Mister Seishu to the throne Pushing himself up carefully he looks up at Gin, those cruel eyes sending an unpleasant shiver through his body.
~*~*~*~*~
Walking down the hallway humming to himself Cho doesn't suspect a thing as he makes his way towards the medical wing. His lover hasn't eaten in well over twelve hours and he is determined to make that adorable furball eat something. However he pauses, steaming tray in hand, and his hair suddenly rising up. In a flash he whips around in time to see Rasha in cat form racing down the hall towards him. Despite only being a cook Cho has excellent instincts and without qualms he drops the tray off to the side and opens his arms. An instant later Rasha crashes into him, human form, knocking them both to the ground.
Though not quite to tears yet, the dream is clearly into full panic mode and Cho does his best to calm him down. Making soft shushing noises he rubs the boy's back with one hand while the other holds him in a rather awkward hug. From down the hall a ball of blue fire races to the scene, skidding to a halt only inches from the two on the floor. Crios kneels beside them, mimicking Cho's actions as he asks, “What happened? What's wrong!?” With their guardian gone to the other realm everything is on high alert and the sound of the crash put Crios almost over the edge. Despite his tease that Harper needs to relax, the doctor has been unable to take his own advice, on the inside at least.
Seishu understands. 'He's clinging to me to keep himself from rocketing off after the boy. Damn that little brat! Why did he have to turn out to be some interdemensional courier!' He growls low, earning him a set of downcast eyes as Kaila thinks the growl was for him. Seishu reaches out and touches his second's shoulder before slipping an arm around Enasi and leading him to the edge of camp. The rest of the denizens watch them go, settling into their normal routine seeing as their guardian seems busy. Kaila's team follows on his heels, unsure of what's happened but knowing that their master needs them. As soon as they reach the edge of camp Seishu turns on his heel to address them.
“Rue is an fairy minion from the Dream Realm who, as we left, was coming into his power.” He knows half the team has already met the boy, however they stay silent and listen as he states things they already know, and some things they didn't. “All we could really tell is that he was able to fly very, very fast, and I guess just moments ago he found out just how fast he can go. I felt him break into this realm.” The normal looks and sounds of shock and surprise are completely absent from the team as they listen, however the feelings are there, just hiding beneath the surface. “That little guy has been fascinated with me since I arrived at the palace in the dream realm, and I now consider him one of my own little ones.”
Looking off in the direction he felt the energy the guardian bites his lip. “He broke through somewhere near the palace. No doubt Gin will get a hold of him before we can, but I refuse to leave him in that bastard's hands for long.” Looking back to the group he looks over them all quickly before making his decision.'They are not going to like this' “Tiski, Lan, Ran, and Jentou, you are all staying here. I need you to take the camp down and melt back into the forest. You all felt the wave, and Gin might have as well. He may have forgotten the feel, but there is no way he's forgotten what it means.” All but Jentou nod at these instructions, the robed male looking rather confused and more than a little panicked.
Laying a hand on Enasi's he gives it a quick squeeze before gently prying his fingers off and moving over to the youth. Taking hold of Jentou's shoulders he looks him straight in the eyes. “I don't have time to explain further. Jentou, you will stay here. You will do as you are told by Tiski, Lan, and Ran, and you will not follow us.” Jentou sill looks frightened, that is until Seishu leans in and gives him a light kiss, whispering, “I will not let anything happen to Kaila. On my life. On my word.” He seems to calm at this, turning to his brother and giving him a tight hug. Lan, Ran, and Tiski all bow to their guardian before carefully taking Jentou from Kaila and leading him off into the crowd. They understand their silent orders not to let him out of sight.
Turning back to the remaining people he gives Tyar a nod. In a dark flash the boy is gone, replaces by it's normal shadow like form, and an instant later it is gone. Not really bound by the laws of physics in any way, Tyar will be the first of their group to locate Rue and report back to them. Turning back to Enasi Seishu offers him a light smile, kissing him gently before scooping the man into his arms. “Enasi, we will get him back, alive. I swear this to you.” His wings snap out, ready for takeoff. Behind Kaila wings of pure fire erupt, the black and purple flames jumping about erratically while still remaining in the shape of bat wings. As they crackle and writhe the heat coming off of them is almost comforting. With a nod to Kaila, Seishu takes off with his love in his arms, and his second at his back.
~*~*~*~*~
Every nightmare denizen in the area felt the little fairy's arrival, and in no time they converged on the spot. Rue was too weak from the sudden jolt and increasing amount of negative energy seeping into his system to put up much of a fight even if he'd wanted to. However from what he'd learned from Seishu he knew better and just let them drag him off towards the large palace in the distance. Despite the sickness and his captive's less than gentle treatment, Rue can not help but marvel at the beauty of the nightmare realm. However now that he is actually in the palace and facing down the being that took Seishu's realm from him all of his child like wonder is gone.
'If I am really, really lucky I will be rescued before this guy fries me or filets me' He thinks absentmindedly, his head a little light from all the negativity. No longer in direct contact with the ground of the realm helps, but only slightly.
Gin sits silently on the throne, his mind jumping from here to there, unable to decide if this is an attack, a diversion, or an accident. 'A surge of positive energy was reported in the forest of energy, but our scouts fond nothing. Not even a trace of it when they searched the area. There was actually an increase in negative energy. Now, we have this obvious weakling appearing out of nowhere, his entrance doing ten times as much damage as any attack he could hope to achieve with an assault. He's pathetic. Look at him! He can barely stand. . .' Letting out a long breath he snarls slightly, prompting the boy to be brought closer with a wave of his hand.
Rue does his best to keep his footing however at the last a minion plants her foot in the middle of his back and knocks him face down on the floor. The denizens around the room laugh and Rue has to remind himself that these are precious ones to Seishu. 'They are just misguided right now. Some may even be spies for the ones who are fighting to restore Mister Seishu to the throne Pushing himself up carefully he looks up at Gin, those cruel eyes sending an unpleasant shiver through his body.
~*~*~*~*~
Walking down the hallway humming to himself Cho doesn't suspect a thing as he makes his way towards the medical wing. His lover hasn't eaten in well over twelve hours and he is determined to make that adorable furball eat something. However he pauses, steaming tray in hand, and his hair suddenly rising up. In a flash he whips around in time to see Rasha in cat form racing down the hall towards him. Despite only being a cook Cho has excellent instincts and without qualms he drops the tray off to the side and opens his arms. An instant later Rasha crashes into him, human form, knocking them both to the ground.
Though not quite to tears yet, the dream is clearly into full panic mode and Cho does his best to calm him down. Making soft shushing noises he rubs the boy's back with one hand while the other holds him in a rather awkward hug. From down the hall a ball of blue fire races to the scene, skidding to a halt only inches from the two on the floor. Crios kneels beside them, mimicking Cho's actions as he asks, “What happened? What's wrong!?” With their guardian gone to the other realm everything is on high alert and the sound of the crash put Crios almost over the edge. Despite his tease that Harper needs to relax, the doctor has been unable to take his own advice, on the inside at least.
The waves of pain fade back slowly like a retreating tide, and once more Alexi Vandros falls into his natural state of calm. Somewhere in the back of his mind he kind of misses the passion, but at the same time the vicious rending almost makes the passion not worth feeling. Almost. . . . Coughing lightly he spits a few times, trying to get the taste out of his mouth. 'I need to brush my teeth after this. I do no like this taste. I really should not let myself linger on things. It seems that thinking on bad things brings up his negative feelings and I end up attacking myself. . .How unpleasant' With a soft sigh he listens to Erik speak, a faint smile touching on his lips.
His eyes come up, free of the emotions that were there before. Now in their place is that soft little fondness that seems to confuse the vampire so much. “Ah, but you still hate me. . .” He looks to the now clean spot on the floor. “But that is okay. I am use to being hated. I am after all one of those evil slave owners you know. I help billions of people keep slaves in their place every day. . .I'm a bad man. . .” There is no hint of sarcasm in his voice as he says these things, his tone quite matter-of-fact. His eyes dart to the side to follow Erik's re-entry to the pool and when he feels the man close behind him he sits up a little straighter. The touch of finger on his hair is something he is a little more familiar with, Mois having a thing for petting his hair while he's trying to fall asleep on those nights Alexi doesn't feel like sleeping alone.
Carefully he sinks down on to his backside, his legs crossing comfortably beneath him and giving the vampire the access he needs to wet and scrub his hair. His head is only a few inches above the water as he hunches a little, wanting to cover himself up with water as much as he can. He stays silent as Erik works, just relaxing into the feeling. 'This is a nice little thing after all that. . .I should be careful not to upset him any more. I can not brush it off like I use to. . .His emotions have cracked my lock. . .' The hand on his shoulder makes him turn to look at it. He stares at it for a long moment before pulling away from Erik, turning around so he can face the man.
“I can not say this for sure, but if it would ease you, I will try and explain my thought on the matter.” He looks perfectly calm now, the only thing he is feeling is a need to try and help the man understand. “I have never failed. Any goal I have ever set I have achieved, even if it was not how I planned it. I have a reason for being so confident, for never second guessing myself, for my unwavering belief that I can not fail.” He laughs in a kind of sad way. “I know I am human, I know I am fallible. I know that I am capable of making mistakes, but I never have, so I do not have a god complex, I promise. I just do not see the point in doubting myself when my lack of doubt may very well be one of the reasons I have never failed.”
Reaching up he wipes away some suds that threaten to fall into his eyes before continuing. “So you can see how your feeling of failure, of such intense hate at not only yourself, but me as well. It is a completely foreign feeling to me. And you feel them, so, strongly. . .I have never felt passion. Never. I have set goals, had things I have wanted, however I have never felt anything stronger than my affection for my brother and Joseph. I care for all my slaves too, but that feeling is even duller. I do not have intense feelings, I just do not. I never have.” His eyes fall, “Except perhaps when I was. . .There was an incident, but I think that had more to do with how my mother and brother reacted.” He hangs his head a little. “That was not emotion. That was an unconscious reaction to my life being in danger. . .”
Looking back up at Erik he adds with a half smile, “That is actually the closest thing I can compare to the feelings you gave me. It is why I overreacted. The one time I have felt anything more than mildly was mortal terror.” His voice is even, his mind careful to keep the actual images at bay. Turning back around he settles down once more, just in case Erik wishes to continue washing. “Oh, and do not worry. I am feeling better now. With your feelings at rest I do not really feel anything but pleased with the hot water and content with the fact that I am getting cleaner. Also, the plan is set and even with this bonding changing my understanding of emotion nothing will change the freeing.”
His eyes come up, free of the emotions that were there before. Now in their place is that soft little fondness that seems to confuse the vampire so much. “Ah, but you still hate me. . .” He looks to the now clean spot on the floor. “But that is okay. I am use to being hated. I am after all one of those evil slave owners you know. I help billions of people keep slaves in their place every day. . .I'm a bad man. . .” There is no hint of sarcasm in his voice as he says these things, his tone quite matter-of-fact. His eyes dart to the side to follow Erik's re-entry to the pool and when he feels the man close behind him he sits up a little straighter. The touch of finger on his hair is something he is a little more familiar with, Mois having a thing for petting his hair while he's trying to fall asleep on those nights Alexi doesn't feel like sleeping alone.
Carefully he sinks down on to his backside, his legs crossing comfortably beneath him and giving the vampire the access he needs to wet and scrub his hair. His head is only a few inches above the water as he hunches a little, wanting to cover himself up with water as much as he can. He stays silent as Erik works, just relaxing into the feeling. 'This is a nice little thing after all that. . .I should be careful not to upset him any more. I can not brush it off like I use to. . .His emotions have cracked my lock. . .' The hand on his shoulder makes him turn to look at it. He stares at it for a long moment before pulling away from Erik, turning around so he can face the man.
“I can not say this for sure, but if it would ease you, I will try and explain my thought on the matter.” He looks perfectly calm now, the only thing he is feeling is a need to try and help the man understand. “I have never failed. Any goal I have ever set I have achieved, even if it was not how I planned it. I have a reason for being so confident, for never second guessing myself, for my unwavering belief that I can not fail.” He laughs in a kind of sad way. “I know I am human, I know I am fallible. I know that I am capable of making mistakes, but I never have, so I do not have a god complex, I promise. I just do not see the point in doubting myself when my lack of doubt may very well be one of the reasons I have never failed.”
Reaching up he wipes away some suds that threaten to fall into his eyes before continuing. “So you can see how your feeling of failure, of such intense hate at not only yourself, but me as well. It is a completely foreign feeling to me. And you feel them, so, strongly. . .I have never felt passion. Never. I have set goals, had things I have wanted, however I have never felt anything stronger than my affection for my brother and Joseph. I care for all my slaves too, but that feeling is even duller. I do not have intense feelings, I just do not. I never have.” His eyes fall, “Except perhaps when I was. . .There was an incident, but I think that had more to do with how my mother and brother reacted.” He hangs his head a little. “That was not emotion. That was an unconscious reaction to my life being in danger. . .”
Looking back up at Erik he adds with a half smile, “That is actually the closest thing I can compare to the feelings you gave me. It is why I overreacted. The one time I have felt anything more than mildly was mortal terror.” His voice is even, his mind careful to keep the actual images at bay. Turning back around he settles down once more, just in case Erik wishes to continue washing. “Oh, and do not worry. I am feeling better now. With your feelings at rest I do not really feel anything but pleased with the hot water and content with the fact that I am getting cleaner. Also, the plan is set and even with this bonding changing my understanding of emotion nothing will change the freeing.”
Alexi lets the water calm his nerves, the story obviously having disturbed the other male, however by his very nature the human decides to wait until Erik speaks to try and begin conversing again. 'I know when I am upset I like taking a minute to compose myself before speaking. It helps keep me from emotional outbursts, and as he is a much more powerful man with a raging temper, I am glad he sees the wisdom in waiting' However as the vampire starts talking it becomes increasingly clear that he'd not waited quite long enough.
As Erik's voice grown in volume Alexi has to refrain from covering his ears and tucking his head into his chest. Images from his past flash before his eyes reminding him of a time he's much rather forget. His heart slides up into his throat and he fights the panic without moving a muscle other than the involuntary ones. His eyes never waver from a spot in the water, his gaze a million miles away, however as the echoes of his voice fade his thoughts begin becoming coherent once more His attention is caught for an instant by an odd colored gleam in the water and as he glances at it he realizes just how angry the rebel leader is and if he were not collared Alexi would be actually afraid for his life.
Falling back on his front of a calm collected man who doesn't let himself get ruffled he begins answering the questions and accusations in a soft hollow tone. “The others captured in the raid were put to work in one of my factories. Since I arranged the sting and financed it I was given every magical that was captured. None were killed, though a few are still recovering from near fatal wounds. It was one of my stipulations in aiding the strike that they try to preserve life. They were successful in that.” His breathing is shallow but he plows on, ignoring the slight waver in his voice every few sentences.
“None have been broken, and I have no plan of letting it happen. They have my top notch control devices, and as much as you hate them, you can not lie and tell me they are not more humane than breaking.” He shifts a little, moving ever so slightly away from Erik subconsciously. “As for the importance of this, as far as you are concerned there is no good reason, so it is pointless to share it with you.” His voice is still calm as he finally manages to look over at the larger male. “I am a selfish spoiled brat who is used to getting what he wants and has decided that what he wants is the end of all this foolish race idiocy with the money and means to do precisely that, or at least give your long down trodden fellows a chance to live their lives completely freely if not in complete happiness.”
Swallowing hard his voice falters a little bit as his emotions surge, mixing with the pain of Erik's hate and loathing driving like a dagger through his innards. “I have little interest in what you think of me, or have thought of me in the past, however whatever else I have done or will do in my life I ask you not forget that I have devoted my short existence to your cause, dealing with people I would rather see floating face first in a vat of excrement then have to even be in the same room with.” He can feel his tears welling up as the dagger in his guts twists. “The slaves will be freed, and by your own hand so many more will be given the chance to recover from the hell they have been put through at the hands of my race, so please forgive me if I do not completely hate my race and put a few of your precious soldiers through the hell of a good meal, warm beds, and no chance of getting killed in the few weeks before there will no longer be such a thing as slavery beyond those who I am asking you to help me save.”
The pain finally becomes too much. The mix of his own resurfaced horrors and Erik's hatred combining chokes off his words and his hand snaps over his mouth. Sanding up he manages to turn and lean forward over the tiles outside of the tub before his stomach turns inside out, painting the tiles with bile and whatever remnants of breakfast remains in his stomach. Once the bout passes he drops to his knees on the inner ledge, sobbing lightly. “Oh god Erik, this self loathing and hate. . . .How. . . .God. . . .” His hair falls into the upchuck as he curl up against the edge of the tub, his forehead resting against a clean spot on the floor. His hands cross over his middle as wave after wave of painful emotions besets him.
As Erik's voice grown in volume Alexi has to refrain from covering his ears and tucking his head into his chest. Images from his past flash before his eyes reminding him of a time he's much rather forget. His heart slides up into his throat and he fights the panic without moving a muscle other than the involuntary ones. His eyes never waver from a spot in the water, his gaze a million miles away, however as the echoes of his voice fade his thoughts begin becoming coherent once more His attention is caught for an instant by an odd colored gleam in the water and as he glances at it he realizes just how angry the rebel leader is and if he were not collared Alexi would be actually afraid for his life.
Falling back on his front of a calm collected man who doesn't let himself get ruffled he begins answering the questions and accusations in a soft hollow tone. “The others captured in the raid were put to work in one of my factories. Since I arranged the sting and financed it I was given every magical that was captured. None were killed, though a few are still recovering from near fatal wounds. It was one of my stipulations in aiding the strike that they try to preserve life. They were successful in that.” His breathing is shallow but he plows on, ignoring the slight waver in his voice every few sentences.
“None have been broken, and I have no plan of letting it happen. They have my top notch control devices, and as much as you hate them, you can not lie and tell me they are not more humane than breaking.” He shifts a little, moving ever so slightly away from Erik subconsciously. “As for the importance of this, as far as you are concerned there is no good reason, so it is pointless to share it with you.” His voice is still calm as he finally manages to look over at the larger male. “I am a selfish spoiled brat who is used to getting what he wants and has decided that what he wants is the end of all this foolish race idiocy with the money and means to do precisely that, or at least give your long down trodden fellows a chance to live their lives completely freely if not in complete happiness.”
Swallowing hard his voice falters a little bit as his emotions surge, mixing with the pain of Erik's hate and loathing driving like a dagger through his innards. “I have little interest in what you think of me, or have thought of me in the past, however whatever else I have done or will do in my life I ask you not forget that I have devoted my short existence to your cause, dealing with people I would rather see floating face first in a vat of excrement then have to even be in the same room with.” He can feel his tears welling up as the dagger in his guts twists. “The slaves will be freed, and by your own hand so many more will be given the chance to recover from the hell they have been put through at the hands of my race, so please forgive me if I do not completely hate my race and put a few of your precious soldiers through the hell of a good meal, warm beds, and no chance of getting killed in the few weeks before there will no longer be such a thing as slavery beyond those who I am asking you to help me save.”
The pain finally becomes too much. The mix of his own resurfaced horrors and Erik's hatred combining chokes off his words and his hand snaps over his mouth. Sanding up he manages to turn and lean forward over the tiles outside of the tub before his stomach turns inside out, painting the tiles with bile and whatever remnants of breakfast remains in his stomach. Once the bout passes he drops to his knees on the inner ledge, sobbing lightly. “Oh god Erik, this self loathing and hate. . . .How. . . .God. . . .” His hair falls into the upchuck as he curl up against the edge of the tub, his forehead resting against a clean spot on the floor. His hands cross over his middle as wave after wave of painful emotions besets him.
Still a little out of it from the ruler's mistake Akito doesn't really notice the empress practically glowing with joy at the sudden subject of wedding planning, nor the almost predatory look in her eyes as she begins plotting his outfit for the big day. Instead he remains lost in thought, his fingers running over and over the feline rodent curled up against his midsection under the cloth. The images flashing before his eyes start drowning everything else out, however as the prince finishes and stands he automatically rises to his feet, offering a bow to both the rules and his own father.
Shaking his head lightly he takes a breath, pushing his past back where it belongs and does his best to stop staring at the floor as he follows the prince out. His left hand comes up automatically to settle on the spot where his sword is tied, his thumb hooking over the braided thread, while his right hangs loose and at the ready. He nods vaguely at the prince's first comment however as the emperor chimes in with his two cents he comes completely out of his funk and turns a brilliant shade of crimson. His eyes fall once more to the floor, a part of him praying that his bangs will be enough to hide the color.
His visibly jumps when the taller male pats his shoulder however he manages a cough and a quick glance added to a nod before his body completely seizes up. At the sound of his name a curious feeling comes over him. He relaxes ever so slightly, the flush fading, and his eyes come up to meet the prince's. 'No one. . .No one calls me by my name. At least not my first name, not like that. . .' He pulls a shy smile, his free hand coming up to rub the back of his neck. The general rolls his eyes a little, standing up to move a few cushions closer to the married couple to make talking easier, however he is still a handful of seats away out of respect.
Akito lets out another light cough before making a slight gesture that Hiro is free to lead the way. Once they are on the move Akito finds himself relaxing a little more with each step. The beauty of the new world being presented to him draws him in and makes him both forget where is is, and realize he is so far from anything familiar. Each new mural and tapestry makes his widen, soft sounds of amazement and awe finding their way out. The view also keeps him from focuses on the man guiding him, helping immensely in his efforts to purge the visions of sharing a room, let alone a bed, with the beautiful you man before him.
~*~*~*~*~
After the prince and his betrothed are out of sight the emperor chuckles softly. Looking to his wife he murmurs, “Not exactly the most enthusiastic lad. Looked down right terrified of sharing a room with Hiro.”
The empress clicks her tongue lightly. “He's probably just a little nervous about looking a fool. Though, our Hiro is a nice boy, he won't be cruel to the poor boy.”
They both look to the general who, after overhearing their hushed comments, lets out a single laugh. When he spots the monarchs looking at him he straightens his gaze. “You have a different opinion general?” The emperor asks, a light tone in his voice. It's clear he wants in on the joke.
Looking down at his food the captain smiles once more. Careful to keep his face neutral and his tone unsuggestive he clears his throat and says, “Aki has a very active and vivid imagination. At your highness's inference, and the way you said it, I am sure Aki jumped to the same conclusion anyone would and as he is entirely without experience he was set into a panic and became very self conclusion.”
The emperor's eyes go wide. “I know I have been long from the field, but has the army really changed so much?! By his age I had my fair share of experience. Is there now something against such things?”
The general shakes his head politely, the expression on the empress's face a mix of exasperation and disbelief. “No highness, Aki is an anomaly. He's been fighting since before he could lift a sword, and never really fit in like the rest of the warriors did. He didn't care about such things. He was to focused on the fight to risk a night of compliance.” He knows he's just making excuses for his son, but he also knows that he's at least partially right. Akito simply wasn't interested when the whores and town girls made their way around camp, offering their services. In fact, after checking them out closely to make sure they are not assassins in disguise, he would often leave camp entirely and wait until most everyone was asleep before slipping back to the captain's tent to pass out on his bedroll in the corner.
Shaking his head lightly he takes a breath, pushing his past back where it belongs and does his best to stop staring at the floor as he follows the prince out. His left hand comes up automatically to settle on the spot where his sword is tied, his thumb hooking over the braided thread, while his right hangs loose and at the ready. He nods vaguely at the prince's first comment however as the emperor chimes in with his two cents he comes completely out of his funk and turns a brilliant shade of crimson. His eyes fall once more to the floor, a part of him praying that his bangs will be enough to hide the color.
His visibly jumps when the taller male pats his shoulder however he manages a cough and a quick glance added to a nod before his body completely seizes up. At the sound of his name a curious feeling comes over him. He relaxes ever so slightly, the flush fading, and his eyes come up to meet the prince's. 'No one. . .No one calls me by my name. At least not my first name, not like that. . .' He pulls a shy smile, his free hand coming up to rub the back of his neck. The general rolls his eyes a little, standing up to move a few cushions closer to the married couple to make talking easier, however he is still a handful of seats away out of respect.
Akito lets out another light cough before making a slight gesture that Hiro is free to lead the way. Once they are on the move Akito finds himself relaxing a little more with each step. The beauty of the new world being presented to him draws him in and makes him both forget where is is, and realize he is so far from anything familiar. Each new mural and tapestry makes his widen, soft sounds of amazement and awe finding their way out. The view also keeps him from focuses on the man guiding him, helping immensely in his efforts to purge the visions of sharing a room, let alone a bed, with the beautiful you man before him.
~*~*~*~*~
After the prince and his betrothed are out of sight the emperor chuckles softly. Looking to his wife he murmurs, “Not exactly the most enthusiastic lad. Looked down right terrified of sharing a room with Hiro.”
The empress clicks her tongue lightly. “He's probably just a little nervous about looking a fool. Though, our Hiro is a nice boy, he won't be cruel to the poor boy.”
They both look to the general who, after overhearing their hushed comments, lets out a single laugh. When he spots the monarchs looking at him he straightens his gaze. “You have a different opinion general?” The emperor asks, a light tone in his voice. It's clear he wants in on the joke.
Looking down at his food the captain smiles once more. Careful to keep his face neutral and his tone unsuggestive he clears his throat and says, “Aki has a very active and vivid imagination. At your highness's inference, and the way you said it, I am sure Aki jumped to the same conclusion anyone would and as he is entirely without experience he was set into a panic and became very self conclusion.”
The emperor's eyes go wide. “I know I have been long from the field, but has the army really changed so much?! By his age I had my fair share of experience. Is there now something against such things?”
The general shakes his head politely, the expression on the empress's face a mix of exasperation and disbelief. “No highness, Aki is an anomaly. He's been fighting since before he could lift a sword, and never really fit in like the rest of the warriors did. He didn't care about such things. He was to focused on the fight to risk a night of compliance.” He knows he's just making excuses for his son, but he also knows that he's at least partially right. Akito simply wasn't interested when the whores and town girls made their way around camp, offering their services. In fact, after checking them out closely to make sure they are not assassins in disguise, he would often leave camp entirely and wait until most everyone was asleep before slipping back to the captain's tent to pass out on his bedroll in the corner.
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