Author: Raith, Posted: Sat Sep 5, 2020 11:04 AM, Post Subject: Court Trickster [O][R?]

Raith smiled as he watched the fight through Silence's eyes, the boy was quick and he was clever. Despite being up against seven opponents he wasn't allowing himself to become overwhelmed - choosing his targets wisely for his tricks and talents. Raith was actually quite impressed. The Seven would need to practice with this one regularly so that they weren't caught off guard by illusions anymore, he needed his warriors to be the best and he would not allow for any further mistakes from them. 

The scent of blood filled the arena, Raith and the Seven could pinpoint Jared's location easily now - they didn't need their eyes to know where he was. Caught in the tornado Torsten's head swung round at the scent, given his size he could not move as agilely as some of his brothers, and he snarled as the daggers embedded themselves in his thick fur and muscle - it wouldn't be enough to kill him, but they would cause enough pain to fuel his rage further, and you didn't anger the Mountain unless you were ready to be squashed. Bolivar was not as easy to catch, his lithe body twisting to avoid the daggers thrown in his direction. 

The winds dissipated and the Seven formed a line as they had before, heads lowered, teeth bared, their eyes following the mirror images as they tried to discern which of the three was the real one. At the insults, the Seven threw back their heads as one and let out their almighty, thunderous howls that boomed through the whole of Orme. As one they moved, bounding forward as they gathered their respective elements together… and then they released the energy all at once, straight towards the boulder Jared had created. 

With a smile Raith swiftly stood up, putting Ria in his seat and holding his hands in front of him. As the boulder shattered Raith called forth his Celestial Flames, shielding everyone from the blast (although he allowed the Seven the retribution of their loss as the shockwave hit them). As the magic vanished Raith began to clap. "Well done! I'm impressed boy, you're better than I was expecting, not many could have faced off against the Seven so effectively. You'll have to spend more time with my wolves and teach the Brothers some more of your tricks so that they do not fail me again."

Author: Jared, Posted: Mon Aug 10, 2020 8:57 AM, Post Subject: Court Trickster [O][R?]

Jared wasn't hearing any of the chatter from any of the others. His focus was entirely on the battle with the seven wolves, everybody else might as well be invisible to him. Luckily, it seemed his spell worked on two of the wolves, the ones who he assumed would be easier to trick than the others. But the third one wasn't as arrogant as his siblings. Jared had to cover his ears when the colossal metal fan opened with a deafening 'ZING'. The wolf threw the tornado across the arena and it caught Jared, sucking him into the tornado. His invisibility spell shattered as rocks slammed into his arms and back, causing him to bleed. Great. Now they could smell exactly where he was. For a moment, Jared wasn't sure what to do next. Was he really going to be defeated this easily? He closed his eyes and tried to think up a plan. The young man could remember the words his father once said.

-Never let them see your real tricks. Distract your enemy. Use their strengths against them.-

A smile formed on Jared's face as he teleported behind one of the wolves flying in the tornado. Taking out some of his daggers, he released them towards Torsten, using the fast winds of the tornado to make the attack deadly. He teleported behind Bolivar and did the same. The winds were a challenge to teleport in so he managed to teleport to a safe space in the arena, towards the edge. Jared placed his hands on a boulder to steady himself. His hands glowed for a second before he teleported again to avoid the icicles. He wasn't fast enough and some of the icicles scraped against his arms, causing them to bleed. Jared needed to buy himself more time.

Jared used some of his mana to create two mirror images of himself. Normally he would have done five or six, but his mana was being drained every second. The three Jareds split into different directions in an attempt to confuse the wolves. All it would take was a well-aimed attack from the wolves to reveal the fake Jareds, since his magic on them was weak. He didn't put a terrible amount of mana into that spell and yet his magical reserves were being drained massively for something else. The Jareds were teleporting around the room, trying to avoid attacks.

"You know what's funny?" One of them said, "I think these guys aren't actually siblings. They don't act like it."

"Yeah!" Another Jared agreed, "They are all fighting us individually. Even my baby sister knows siblings are stronger together."

"I bet they can't even combine their attacks into one. That's how pathetic they are." The third Jared said, "A bunch of weakling brothers."

He was hoping his plan would work, otherwise he was a goner. But that was how one lived life. There was a risk to every single thing. If he failed here, then he didn't deserve to make it any further. The real Jared teleported in front of the boulder he'd messed with earlier. The boulder was hot to the touch. It only needed one boost of mana to be triggered. He expected the other Jareds to have been caught and defeated by now. It wouldn't be hard. He prepared his magic for one last spell.

"Are you going to prove me wrong?" He asked.

The boulder behind him was an explosion waiting to happen. All it needed was a trigger.

Author: Raith, Posted: Sun Aug 9, 2020 11:13 AM, Post Subject: Court Trickster [O][R?]

The Seven spread themselves out, heads low as they began to circle Jared, their eyes never leaving their target. Raith could positively feel the power the great wolves gave off. Once they had been proud men, leaders of their respective tribes they had once called one another brother until the Packs had gone their own separate ways. Their valour and position had given them a place in the stars, had made them so much more than they had been as mortals, though it had robbed the Seven of their human forms, ironically turning them into the mirror image of the Dire Wolves they had Bonded within their life. 

Jared's words were lost on the Seven, such niceties would not sway them from the task their Master had given them - Raith had called upon their talents to truly test the boy, and they would not be gentle with him. As he vanished they growled in unison, they might not be able to see him - but that wouldn't entirely stop them from being able to find him. Their ears swivelled upon their heads, tracking the bouncing voice as he teased them, their lips pulled back to reveal their elongated fangs. Kai and Ramman, the most arrogant of all the Seven were immediately drawn into the ploy, but Aither was not so quick to be fooled. As Kai and Ramman turned, snarling, on their brothers, Aither leapt into the air and span, fangs gripping the edge of the Gunsen on his back, whipping it forward. The colossal metal fan unfolded with a deafening 'ZING'. Aither continued to spin, whipping the air around him, as he stopped he swung his head, using the Gunsen to throw the tornado he had created across the arena to gather up anyone in its vicinity… which was most of the arena. 

Kai and Ramman fell victim to the gust, alongside Torsten and Bolivar as the pair had been fending off their fooled brothers. Silas and Yukio stood together, heads down as they avoided the wind, the father of the Frostgarde leapt onto his brother's back and Silas called upon his own powers, slamming the Kama into the ground and calling forth the roots beneath his feet, propelling himself and his brother into the air. The pair worked together, Silas throwing his brother upward, Yukio using the leverage to gain height as he swung the Kusarigama around his neck - the chain hissing through the air and sending a cascade of sharp ice droplets from the scythe end of the weapon. They were going all out for Jared today. 

As Alairia came to join them in the arena, Raith smiled. Her scent immediately alerted him to her presence, and Raith felt calm at the very thought of his lover witnessing another aspect of his powers. It wasn't often that Raith got to use the Celestials at his disposal for what they were good at - Draconis and his Scouts tended to be the only ones he called upon regularly, the Seven and the Twins trained for him but more than that, he had yet to find a need for his ability to call upon the powers of the Heavens. As Ria sat in his lap, Raith let his hand rest against her leg, fingers caressing her skin as he smiled at her. "Pilgrims looking to join under my Patronage. Ferrus will be giving Dala and the girl there, Talia, an education under my roof as part of his occupation. Talia will learn from yourself and Syn in proper etiquette, she touched me without permission," he snarled under his breath. "but she will be useful given her innocence and age. She's Jared's little sister, I'm testing his usefulness with the help of the Seven. To be honest it's been a while since they've had anything of worth to do, I thought it was best to let them stretch their legs, and stretch my new Pilgrim to his limit," Raith grinned, growling softly in his fiancee's ear. 
He chuckled, holding Ria close. "If she wasn't I think I would be seriously concerned that she was ill," he sighed. 

Author: Alairia, Posted: Sat Aug 8, 2020 5:42 PM, Post Subject: Court Trickster [O][R?]

”And I would like those newly bundled herbs to be taken to my mother as soon as possible. She is running on short supply lately, and the pregnancy is beginning to literally weigh on her body.” A gentle laugh rippled from Alairia as she walked beside her assistant, Chelsea. The green haired young woman responded with her own light laugh all while writing down notes in her notebook. Alairia and Chelsea walked through the throne room to the foyer only to stop short. The noise from in the throne room while the pair were been working in the Garden Realm had not gone unnoticed. Fiancée of the god felt it had been best to stay out of the way while everything was being sorted through. Seeing that the throne room had been emptied along with the clear summoning of the Seven. Biting her lower lip, Alairia had mischief in her hazel eyes. ”Let us go see what trouble has stirred up,” she said in a whispered tone. Chelsea had an expression of nervousness, but that did nothing to stop Ria from swiftly shuffling out of the Observatory.

Her attire of the day only seemed to accentuate the stark different between her personality and Raith’s. A light wind pulled at the layered white chiffon dress as she half jogged to her future husband’s side. He sat upon a throne on the edge of an arena that had been set up. There were quite a few new faces to be seen at the Orme Observatory. ”Good day, my love. Who are all these new people?” she asked with a sweet tone. Alairia smiled at Raith while moving to sit upon his lap with arms wrapped around his neck. She rested her head upon his shoulder to watch the fight. Alairia would never interfere with anything Raith was handling. It was her job to be at his side to support the momentous position lain at his feet.

Even so, her hazel gaze shifted to Syn. The red haired temptress was resting along a wall with a young girl to watch the fight between young man and the Seven. She saw the vampiress check the behind of the young man who was stretching in preparation of his sparring match. Alairia chuckled lightly when she witnessed the hunger in the woman’s golden eyes. ”Always on the hunt,” she whispered into Raith’s ear with another laugh.

Syn glanced over from Jared’s ass to the Master and Mistress of the Temple. A fanged genuine smile was made towards the couple. They were cute in the assistant’s eyes. She was going to protect them until her last day. Taking her regard away from the couple, she allowed herself to look at Talia. The girl was attempting to control her emotions from the start, but it was going to be a difficult task for her first test. It was clear that she had a deep connection with her brother, Jared, but it was going to lessen if they were to be successful within the Realm. Syn took a moment to pat the girl on the back of the head in encouragement.

Ferrus was going to use his odd magi intelligence to tutor Talia as well as Dala. This would be something interesting to discuss with Lady Alairia later. At least these Pilgrims were slowly working their way into the group. Hopefully, they would be proper additions that could move the plan of her Lord in the proper direction. This was merely step one.

A click of her tongue was made towards the large wolf with fur tipped in red. ”Let’s see what that muscled form of your’s can do, Kai,” she purred at the Flamegarde. The Seven members had once been men, which meant that Syn would have enjoyed flirting and moving with them. Even now, Syn had found enjoyment spending her time flirting with Kai whenever possible. ”Don’t get cocky…at least not right now, Jared. They are extremely powerful. I don’t want to see that nimble ass damaged too badly.”

A muffled giggle could be heard from Alairia as she nestled on Raith’s lap. Syn looked at Chelsea whom stood with notebook in grasp while looking at the Seven Celestials. The clergy girl was new to the temple, and was a good balance to help out the Mistress. Alairia took in a deep breath as she watched things continue forward with the match. It was going to be interesting.

Author: Taliana, Posted: Fri Aug 7, 2020 10:39 PM, Post Subject: Court Trickster [O][R?]

Ferrus was given an assignment, allowing the strange man to make a home in his temple. What surprised Talia the most in this response wasn’t that he was to be her tutor, but that he was to be Raith’s daughter’s tutor as well. Master Raith had a daughter. A million questions exploded into her mind. What was his daughter like? Was she young, or was she older? Was she blind like Master Raith? Would she like Talia? Syn’s voice addressing them snapped her out of the myriad of questions which would not be asked nor answered at this time.

They were officially titled “siblings”, and she was simply “child”. Talia gave Jared one final glance before giving him a smile for luck and hurried to Syn’s side, taking her hand. Lady Syn led them outside and gave Talia her directions to sit and control her emotions. She nimbly scrambled up to sit on the edge of the wall and watched her brother stretch. He was quite limber, but had taught her to stretch just as far as he could. Whether or not she remembered to do it was another story in and of itself. All that was left to do was wait for the trial to begin for her own test to start.

Just as Talia was silently begging for it to not be too difficult, thunder and a steady pounding of something was accompanied by howls loud enough she winced. Kurayo was never quite this loud unless some werewolf or vampire got into a scuffle near them. Master Raith introduced each wolf, and if she understood correctly, each wolf represented an element. What was curious, as well as a bit intimidating for her, was the fact that each of them carried a weapon on their backs or in their jaws. Even as Jared went invisible, Talia could not ease her sense of dread, nor push it away. How could her brother fight all seven wolves? Her small hands gripped the stone wall on either side of her till her knuckles were white. She couldn’t see him, couldn’t smell him and his voice was all over the place. Talia hoped that it would be enough to confuse them until he can get the edge on them.

Author: Ferrus Faustinus, Posted: Thu Aug 6, 2020 3:36 PM, Post Subject: Court Trickster [O][R?]

Ferrus stood unmoving as Raith explained to him that, the sort of inter-dimensional travel, that brought the Tech-Priest here, was also the reason for why Raith was here too. Which was quite an interetsting piece of information to gain. This meant that one of the gods of this realm was an outsider. This promted a question within priest's mind, as to how exactly divinity worked here. Was Raith always always a Divine being? Mayhaps he was just avarage for the realm he came from but here his powers are so that he might as well be a God. Is this what Gods of this realm are? Beings that came to from higher dimensional planes unto the lower one and were worshiped? Questions, questions so many questions. Well he sadly did not have time to ponder them right now, for Raith seemingly assigned a role to him. To be tutor of his child and of Jared's sister. This was an interesting development but not one he was opposed to per se. He only hoped that mayhaps he could convince Raith, to be granted a laboratory/workshop to work at……but that is something to be disscused at a later date. What interested him more was that Raith had a child, he pondered this in some detail for a second. Did this child inherit divine powers of his father? How divine is the child, and by proxy, how much of a divine being Raith actualy is, that he needs a tutor for his offspring? It it his offspring? Mayhaps he adopted a mortal child? While Raith did not strike him as a type of God to do so, he nonthenless could not rule out this possibility seeing that he lacked key pieces of information.

All of the above was processed out in detail within Ferrus's brain in less than a second after he heard of his appointment, to which he replied to it in a manner he saw was best fit to weasel up to his would be patron.
- Oh I am incredibily grateful for this ocassion my Lord. To teach your very own daughter, a great, honour to one such as I. And yes, Education should never be sniffed at, for knowledge is power, and sometimes possesion of it in of itself makes a person far mightier than others.

But no sooner than Ferrus finished thanking Raith, when a bell rung out and God asked him to follow him outside, to see Jared's test, to see what kind of world this is. If Ferrus could he would furrow his brow for just  short momment. He very well understood Raith's intentions, to show off the might of his servants and by proxy his own. Maybe even to scare the priest, make something of an example of Jared if he would to fail his test, to what happens to those who do not meet his strict standards. He had seen this before, hundreds of times if not more, pretty common tactic, well played out and it's lost it's effects on Ferrus over time. He however was not stupid, he would not refuse his would be Patron right now, so he nodded and went along to see Jared's test unfold before him.

The Seven, Master of Elements bound to massive Wolves that reminded him of tales of Fenris, the barren cold world which serves as home for a very…..peculiar  group of Holy Warriors, Angels of Death that made him think less of angels and more of brutish tribes-people. Which ironicaly might have been what Seven were before being bound to Raith's service and before their tribes….dissapeared….yes that is the best word to use as of right now. Still it was clear that they were feroucious fighters, so much so that he doubted  that Raith intended for Jared to win. Or rather he suspected that the test was less about winning and more about making a good show of losing. He tightened the grip upon his axe and observed in utter silence as Jared darted, clearly taking on a strategy of trickery and illusions, aiming to whitle them down while avoidng their attacks. A Jester's or perhaps Magician's way to fight, he'd only hope that it would work out for him.

Author: Jared, Posted: Tue Aug 4, 2020 2:55 PM, Post Subject: Court Trickster [O][R?]

Jared gave Talia a quick pat on the shoulder, as if to give her some support before she went to Syn's side. This would be good for her. A proper education, training for the world's harshness, and a position. These were the best things he could offer her in life. They would have to work to the bone for these things but it was better than ending up as a miner or a barely paid farmer. But they weren't there yet. They hadn't been officially accepted yet. That carried on his shoulders. If he failed to impress them, the siblings would be tossed out. He couldn't focus on helping Talia at the moment. He had to focus on surviving this challenge and making an impression.

He followed Syn and Raith to the outside arena. The outside would be equally fine. There was more space but then again, a good fighter could adapt to any area. Syn suggested he stretched, which he would but first he had to strip off his shoes. He took the boots and socks off, tossing them to the side. Then he looked at Syn with a mischievous smile. First he stretched out his arms, then stretched his legs by touching his feet. Then he bent backwards, touching his heels. He maintained a good balance and it stretched his core. Then he spread into a split on the ground. His legs were perfectly stretched but he continued with more stretches on the ground. By the time he stood up, he smelled entirely like the ground.

Illusion magic and agility were his best two skills. His mind focused primarily on these skills while waiting for the challengers to arrive. It didn't take long before the thunder of the Seven's arrival made him look towards the seven large wolves. That meant pretending to be other people would be harder, since wolves have a keen sense of smell. His mind churned with strategies but his expression was pleasant, with a smile. Raith introduced the previous prestigious leaders of the Allgarde Packs. Once each of them were called by name, Jared politely bowed to all of them.

"It is an honor to be tested by the Seven." He said truthfully, "My presence is nothing before the greatness in front of me."

In a blink an eye, he was gone. An invisibility spell twisted into his words framed to look like a compliment. His fae and vampire heritage made these trickery spells simpler for him. His footsteps were silent, thanks to the removal of noisy shoes from earlier. His scent was the same as the ground. During his stretches, he had taken care to mix up his own scent with the ground. His breathing was controlled and ever movement was made with great care. All it would take was a single powerful attack to obliterate him. He had to avoid direct attacks at all cost. Jared's eyes targeted Kai, Aither, and Ramman as he prepared his next spell.

"If I toss a stick at these dogs, will they chase it?" He joked with an echoing voice.

It was a little party trick that he'd learned from his father. By making his voice bounce off of objects and walls, he could make the sound echo through the area. Even if they were outside, there were still plenty of walls and stones to use. The Seven would go all out with their attacks, regardless of any insults or jests he threw their way. His spell was finally ready. He targeted Kai, Aither, and Ramman with an illusion spell. This would make them see and smell their allies as Jared for a short time. He didn't know if all of the wolves would be affected, since he was still practicing this specific power.

Author: Raith, Posted: Mon Aug 3, 2020 12:13 PM, Post Subject: Court Trickster [O][R?]

Raith snorted at Ferrus' vague response. "It is important to me if I've asked it; I was born in a world far from here that no longer exists, and raised on another even further still, so the concept of other worlds is hardly foreign to me," he added simply. It was curiosity that had urged the question, that and if Raith needed the information for the future it was better to know now rather than later. At least the man was honest, which immediately stood him in good stead with the Lord of Wrath. "Well, at least you have an intelligent head upon your shoulders to recognise true greatness when you come across it," Raith snorted. "You are welcome to make a home here, I am sure Syn will find your particular talents and put them to good use within my Court; if you are a man of learning, which you sound to be, then you may be of use to teach my daughter and this new girl at least. Education should never be sniffed at," he nodded.

A smile crossed the Blind God's face as his sharp hearing caught the click of Syn's fingers, followed by the sharp ring of the bell located in the Observatory above them in the Watchtower. The Seven would answer. All his Celestials came when called, but of them all, it was the Seven and Draconis who was probably the most loyal… not that any of them would have dared argue with Raith. "Come, Priest, you should understand the type of world you have stumbled upon here," Raith said as he let Syn lead the group outside where Jared would have a better arena to fight against those summoned to test him. The God made a mental note to build a proper training facility, especially now that Pilgrims were answering his call.

Raith settled upon a less ornate throne settled on the edge of the makeshift arena, it wasn't as though he could observe the fight in any conventional sense, but he would see plenty. The God smiled as he heard the thunder of the Seven's arrival, their feet pounding against the floor like a rolling wave, the crescendo of which was answered by their unified howls. Seven large wolves. "Jared, meet the Seven. Once they were the most prestigious leaders of the Allgarde Packs, nomadic tribes who harness the elements and bond with the gigantic Dire Wolves you see before you. The Allgarde no longer exist, the Packs having split into the seven elements represented before you," Raith explained before nodding to the Seven wolves to step forward as he called their names.
"Kai, father of the Flamegarde," the largest of the group stepped forward, sleek, muscled frame shrouded in a cloak of sleek, ebony fur, the tips of which were blood red. His flickering red eyes watched Jared as he stepped into the arena they would fight in, a huge katana upon his back.
"Bolivar, father of the Oceangarde,” the next to step forward was a deep grey wolf, far leaner than his brother, his fur tipped in a dark blue, his fur shifting like waves. His swirling blue eyes fixed on Jared as he took his place beside Kai, an Eku Bo, the ends of which were fixed with metal, upon his back.
”Silas, father of the Forestgarde,” the brown furred wolf was muscled and tall, his fur had an almost mossy sheen to it due to the green colouration to the ends of his fur. Green eyes shimmered and his jaws clenched tighter around the Kama he carried.
”Aither of the Skygarde,” the light grey coloured wolf with sand coloured tips strode forward, all but gliding, his small stature less imposing that his brothers, but the tumultuous storm in his grey eyes spoke of the danger within. Folded upon his back lay a steel Gunsen.
”Torsten father of the Stonegarde,” this hulking mass of a wolf kept his head low as he strode forward, his black fur not as sleek as Kai’s, edged in grey. His deep grey eyes seemed solid like stone, the Otsuchi strapped upon his shoulders larger than he was.
[b[“Yukio of the Frostgarde,” he was sleek like Aither, his fur of the purest white, tipped in a soft blue. His shimmering ice blue eyes barely registered that Jared was ever there, the Kusarigama wrapped around his neck clinking as he moved.
”Ramman of the Thundergarde.” the last wolf was sand coloured, his fur positively buzzing with static charge, tipped golden and flickering occasionally with the Lightening he was associated with. His golden eyes fixed on Jared and he snorted, shifting the Yumi and quiver upon his back.
”Show me what you can do against my most esteemed warriors.”

Author: Syn, Posted: Thu Jul 30, 2020 7:44 PM, Post Subject: Court Trickster [O][R?]

Blood coursed quickly through Syn’s veins as her anger heightened at the audacity the child had to touch her lord. The growl continued to rumble deep in her chest, though it began to settle. There was luck on the child’s side by sheerly being a child. She knew that Raith would have physically reacted if she had been only a few years older. It took a moment of breathing deep to bring a sense of calm back to her mind. Hands smoothed out her dress for attire to be in proper form once again. Golden gaze shot daggers once more at Jared to make sure that he kept his sister under control before things could get worse.

Syn glanced carefully at Ferrus as the magi-tech man gripped his ax a little tighter. Chin lifted a little higher as her focus was now upon the task given to her from her patron. A feline smile pulled on her ruby lips as she snapped her fingers to call upon the Seven. They were her favorite above all else. There was a lift of her brow at the prospect of teaching the child in etiquette, since Syn was not good with children even in her first life. ”As you wish, my lord,” she responded in a wispy tone.

It would certainly be interesting to see what Lewis could do with the child as well in ways of shadow hunting. It seemed like it would be far more likely to be skills Talia could hone. Few would expect the silent and deadly arts from an innocent face such as her’s…even if she had not a thought in her head of proper protocol.

Long fingers flipped her long tresses over her shoulder before bowing to her lord. ”I shall bring Jared outside to face his competition. I just had the floors properly waxed for once, and don’t want them scuffed up before Lady Alairia has a chance to see them.”. Syn smirked up at Raith as she knew that he would want his queen to be pleased with the upkeep even if he didn’t care. There were still vases upon vases of flowers kept in the main corridors upon Ria’s command. Even Raith hadn’t the heart to have them removed.

”Follow me, siblings. Talia…come to my side child,” she urged with her manicured hand outstretched. It was time to start molding the girl for her chosen path. That path was not hiding behind her brother’s coattails.

Syn led the two out of the temple to an open field that was perfect for training purposes. ”Your opponent shall arrive shortly. I recommend you get prepared…stretch.”. The vampiress had a mischievous grin upon her face again in hopes of seeing Jared stretch his lean muscles while waiting. ”Talia, sit beside me. You must learn to control your emotions despite anything that is going on around you. While your brother is in combat, you will keep zero emotion on your face except for vacant interest. Let no one ever be able to read what you are truly feeling.”. She had brought the girl over to a small stone half-wall where the woman leaned against gently. Position was purposely sculpted to show the muscle definition in her exposed legs as well as the curves of her body. ”Sit beside me to watch what is to transpire without one outburst.”

Author: Ferrus Faustinus, Posted: Sat Jul 4, 2020 6:17 PM, Post Subject: Court Trickster [O][R?]

As Raith spoke of Jared and his little sister, second thoughts begun to come about in his mind. Despite himself he felt a strange sympathy towards the two and this harsh treatment was something that…..made him start to reconsider some things. However he knew that he was now in too deeply to back down. So he observed what happened. Didn't let on what he thought and waited untill Raith would, inevitably turn to him with……orders? Questions? Requests perhaps? The anticipation was such that he almost felt a need to lock down some of his emotional response centers in his brain for fear of showing weakness to his would be employer, nay a divine patron. But he held his own ground and awaited Raith's words.

As soon as Raith finished, a thousand thoughts raced through cyborg's mind. All with singular purpose of answering Blind God's questions best to his abilities while also not angering him with his temdemcy to rant and not divulging any sensetive information that might not be pleasing to him. In less than a second he managed to formulate, what the machine priest had seen as, an adequate explaination for the questions aksed of him. Explainantion that would touch upon all the necessary points while not being too long and ranty.

- Well my lord - he begun - Where I come from is of little importance I am afraid. I do not try to avoid answereing this question, it's just simply that my place of origin is so far away that it has no impact on my current situation. However if your lordship requires more of a detailed explaination of that, I will say that my home does not neighbour Revaliir in any dimensional sense, as it was. As to why I seek employment within your halls………If I am allowed to be honest it was not originaly my plan to do so. I merely sought out an audiance with you to conduct an interview. However when chance was presented, to serve divinity in most direct capacity…….well I just could not let go of that. It's an oppurtunity of an liftime of not serveral! There is so much I could achive in your service, so much I could learn…..so many secrets I could uncover. And as a priest I understant the importance of not underming the Will of the Divine.

Author: Taliana, Posted: Sat Jul 4, 2020 12:06 PM, Post Subject: Court Trickster [O][R?]

At the sound of a hiss, Talia released the god’s hand, recoiling from Syn’s bared teeth and angry voice. She didn’t understand what she had done wrong. Respect was given to him as she bowed, taking into consideration he was called the Blind God. With the pretty crown on his eyes, even she knew that his eyes didn’t see. Even when Jared pulled her away, Talia was still trying to process what went wrong. ”But Jared,” she started to protest, then decided it wasn’t the time for another outburst. ”Yes sir.”

At her place by Jared’s side, where she belonged, Talia edged behind him, to make herself appear smaller. Raith’s voice was soft, yet sent shivers down her spine. He was not going to send her with Jared, no matter how much she begged. As for her task, she was paired with the scary woman to learn etiquette, which did not sound exciting at all. More homework and studies were in store for her, given by both Syn and this new name of Lewis. She perked up at the hint of tasks she may be given, based solely upon taking advantage of her age.

However, first Jared must face the Seven and the Pack… While the titles were vague at best, Talia hugged Jared’s arm to her in fear. He may seem eager to face the challenge, but Talia worried for him. Her mulberry eyes gazed up at him fearfully, taking in his confident smile. She had to throw herself into her assigned tasks… For his sake. Talia straightened her posture and withdrew from behind her brother. ”I am ready too, Ma’am.”

Author: Jared, Posted: Fri Jul 3, 2020 10:46 AM, Post Subject: Court Trickster [O][R?]

Bringing Talia might have been a mistake. They were on thin ice due to her behavior and Jared knew he would have to make up for any errors she made with successes. That gave him little room to make errors himself. But he had to bring her. Else leave her at home all day without supervision or lessons to improve herself. He knew she wouldn't like the etiquette lessons but they were important to learn. One day she would grow up and these skills would provide exactly what she needed. Building her a place in the court would secure her future and make her stronger. As for himself, he intended to get as far as possible. To serve the god to his best abilities and prove his loyalty but to also take his place in the world. 

"Understood My Lord" He simply said. 

He didn't need to say more than that. The god had turned his attention to Ferrus. As they talked, Jared looked over to Syn to see what would be the next step. He mentioned the seven and it sounded like Jared would need to fight them, or at least survive through their attacks. It was where he could show off his abilities but more importantly, prove he was a worthy servant. His mind was focusing on the next task ahead of him. Now that they had made it through the introductions, he would have to do well in order to secure a place at the court. 

"Whenever your ready, miss Syn." Jared said with a smile. 

He expected the seven to be a challenge. This WAS the god of wrath so he expected the test to be deadly. 

Author: Raith, Posted: Tue Jun 30, 2020 3:49 PM, Post Subject: Court Trickster [O][R?]

Raith might have been blind, but that did not mean he could not see. The entirety of Orme was one giant tuning fork, and it was tuned specifically to the God that had created the realm in the first place. Every minute shift in body weight, every involuntary inhalation, the quickening of a pulse - all of it let Raith know exactly who and what had found its way into his realm and what their intentions were. Not to mention Silence. 

Orme positively resounded with the movements of the child as she launched herself forward and grabbed Raith’s hand without permission - she was lucky she was young, for Raith metered his response despite his immediate disgust at this lack of manners to one in his position. Had she been an adult he would not have hesitated in breaking every rib in her torso and stealing the breath from her lungs - even Syn had known better than to touch her patron without properly settling into her role… and even then she knew better since he held no affection toward her whatsoever. 
The man snarled, lips curling back to reveal his own extended canines - not Vampiric in nature, but predatory nonetheless. With a harsh flick of his wrist, enough to show the girl her strength and reinforce her place in his Halls, Raith tore his hand from her grasp. 
Thankfully for the child Syn was on hand to deal with her quicker than their Wrathful Lord might have, and in a far more gentle way than he, despite her tone. As Jared spoke Raith turned his attention toward the boy, his image somewhat unnerving when you knew you were being stared right into without the use of eyes. ”While I applaud eager servants I do not tolerate ones not versed in proper etiquette,” he said softly, each word laced with black ice that spoke louder than he was, ”I will not send juveniles into the shadows, regardless of how eager they may be. Syn, call upon the Seven, let us see boy holds out against the Pack shall we? His sister will take lessons from you in etiquette of the Court, she can train with Lewis so that we might make use of her. She may not venture into the shadows but in the light a child is seen as weak and in need of protection, she might hold some use so long as she can learn to hold her foolish tongue.”

Raith turned his attention to the last of the Pilgrims, ignoring the siblings entirely now. ”You do not belong. Where are you from and why seek my Halls for employment? I am a generous patron, I see loyalty well rewarded, but anyone who seeks to undermine me will swiftly understand why Wrath is my domain.”

Author: Ferrus Faustinus, Posted: Thu Jun 25, 2020 2:25 PM, Post Subject: Court Trickster [O][R?]

As Raith arrived and begun to spoke, affirming the notions put forward by Ferrus, the previously mentioned scholar and ex-priest studied his would be lord. Nothing escaped his gaze, as two green ligths that seemingly served as his eyes locked unto God of this realm. And at a first glance he seemed more like a mortal than a god, however looks can be quite deceiving. Not to mention the blindfold, he heard from the locals that God residing at the the top of Volcano was a blind one, however he was not sure if it was a literal or figurative statement, now he knew and was all the more grateful for it.

However he was quickly pulled out of his trance by the fact that Talian rushed up to Raith and grab a hold of his hand. Some small part of him cringed at this, as it was somewhat of an blatant show of disrespect towards a god, however Ferrus could not blame the girl for this. Despite being an Vampire, she was still a child, with all the good and bad that came with it. He could not feel any sort of animosity towards those who didn't knew any better. However it would also appear that Syn, the temptress that greeeted them held no such ideals as she hissed in anger at the young one.

For a brief momment Ferrus wished to step in and maybe de-escalate the situation. Try to reasson that, Talia just didn't knew any better and as a child she would be naturally curious and eager. However he abstained from the idea. As with all servants of the divine Syn might be resistent to seeing reason, too caught up in her reverance to her god and his attempts at de-escalation might only lead to further tensions and maybe even bad impressions that might make his stay here difficult, or even might lead him to being kicked out or worse…

So he remained in the back, watching in silence as Jared steped in and pulled his sister away from Raith. As ever he only observed and straightened out his posture in anticipation of mayhaps take off his crimson cloak so everyone could better see his form. Afterall it would make sense to be more open about certain things. He pondered that as he continued his quiet observation and gripped his Omnissian Axe tighter.

Author: Jared, Posted: Thu Jun 25, 2020 11:18 AM, Post Subject: Court Trickster [O][R?]

It seemed that Syn was slightly more willing to accept them. Then the god, Raith entered the room. Just when Jared thought things were going well, his little sister ran over to the god of wrath and held his hand. She had done it faster than what he'd been expecting. Great. Still Jared showed little emotion beyond a pleasant smile as he reached for his sister and pulled her away from the god. 

"Now Talia, you know better than to approach people you don't know." He said to her. 

This time he held her hand firmly so she wouldn't try that again. At this moment, he wasn't angry at her. It was his own fault for not teaching her that just because they were working for somebody or were in an alliance with another, that didn't mean they were friends with that person. Jared gave a small bow to the god of wrath but that mischievous smile remained on his face. 

"Apologies my lord, my sister is just overeager to serve." He said, "Speaking of which, what is the best way to prove our skills to your court?"

He swiftly turned the topic from his sister to the next steps with just a few words. Jared expected the god and Syn would want to have them prove their skills in more detail. After all, a few spells and words were hardly enough to be convincing. Ferrus, himself, and his sister appeared to be useful but it would be impossible to tell based on looks and little performances. Then there would be the issue of trust. Could the god trust in them to carry out his orders without betrayal? These were things the god would have to think about when building his court. Things that Jared had already thought about the second he heard about the court. 

Then there was Syn. If he wanted to get into the good graces of the god, he would have to ensure that relations with her didn't go sour. She was a dangerous woman who was clearly skilled, else she wouldn't be there. His mind was already concocting plans and figuring out paths to build upon. But his mouth was silent and he had nothing but that glint of ambition in his eyes. 

Author: Syn, Posted: Wed Jun 24, 2020 7:02 PM, Post Subject: Court Trickster [O][R?]

Syn wouldn’t deny the intrigue that she felt when looking into the hollowed eyes of the magi-tech thing. He was of a complete unknown origin to the vampiress, which meant there was untapped potential for her Lord. What could they get out of the creature/man if they put their minds to it? A mischievous smirk crossed her red stained lips while looking him up and down for the moment. Oh the plans she could make for the man.

Tip of her tongue rested on her elongated fang while glancing back at Jared. It was an odd matching for a vampire to have a younger sibling that they protected. Vampires were not the ‘pack’ kind. When she looked into the male’s eyes she saw what she needed to see: ambition. There was no shrinking away from what was laid out before them. Even if they dared to go after it now, Syn would see if they survived what Raith had planned out.

She laughed almost hollowly at the comment of the volcano and then for the child to be a wolf. ”Oh handsome, you can’t comprehend the Wolf’s Den you have walked into.” Her tongue slowly slid over her exposed fangs as she waited for Jared to give another response to the proposed question she had given. Attention was fully focused on the male. The flicker of his own reflected mischief almost made her purr in delight. ’Show me what you’ve got,’ she thought.

The vixen did not jump, but the heated breath against her ear made a shiver ripple down her spine. Elegant fingers reached for the jester’s card. The purr echoed in her voice as she said ”I guess it is mine now.”. Oh she was going to like this one for sure. Jester card remained grasped between two long fingers while waving it back and forth slowly. ”All talents I would like look into your….particular talents.”

Ferrus spoke next with that unnatural voice of his. It was unsettling on its own, let alone his outward appearance. Pointed ears twitched slightly at the sound of the back door from the Watchtower opening. She smiled again with a satisfied expression. A slight bow was given as her lord and liege joined the gathering. ”Yes, sire, these are the Pilgrims that have stated that they are willing to do what you will.”. She held up the jester’s card with a wiggle of her brow. ”Talents are not lacking in this group.”.

Clicking of her heels resounded once again as she moved around her Master to stand behind a step of his left shoulder. Golden gaze piercing from a shadowed brow at each of those that were before the god. Syn hissed with bared teeth as the sister child dare grab Raith’s hand. ”Know your place,” her voice had turned from a sultry moan into a flame filled rage. ”Lord Raith is our GOD that we have pledged to. Not our friend.” Syn shot a look towards Jared to remove Talia before potential injury was sustained from not keeping a distance from the deity.

Author: Taliana, Posted: Tue Jun 23, 2020 9:40 PM, Post Subject: Court Trickster [O][R?]

She could see the coy smile, the sensual way she rested against the dragon. Talia could identify a hunter when she saw one, and this woman was a huntress of some kind. The child could also see the questioning curiosity and judgment in those golden orbs as to the reasoning for her being in the god's throne room. Yet, she stayed silent, if a little disappointed as the vampiress explained that the dragon was merely a statue, a piece of decorating art.

The odd stranger began to explain how he would offer himself to the court and the god behind it. There were long words she did not quite understand in his speech, leaving her wonder what a chronicler was. What did they do? How were they royal? While he did explain the first half of her quiet questions, it did not explain the second half. Soon enough, the vampire began speaking once more. At the words of "peaceful and happy living", Taliana looked up at Jared and stuck her tongue out at him with a smile.

Since when was life so peaceful for them? Happiness came whenever it could, if one could find it, the feeling always fleeting. Talia clung to his arm, not ready to let herself be alone in such an unknown realm, as she chose to remain silent about her ability to help on missions. Who knew what kind of woman this Lady Alairia was anyway? Jared, however, was explaining his reasoning for bringing her along and showing off his skills. Should she try and reveal her capabilities? Would it allow her to go with Jared on missions?

Time to share her pyrotechnics were over, however, when the cyborg agreed with Jared about the treacherous climb and the (rather fun) maze. As he asked his question, though, the child's attention was grabbed by a new sound. Someone else had entered the room. He answered in place of the woman, his words telling Talia exactly who he was, and finally put a name to the woman's face. Before Jared could react, Talia released his hand and darted forward, grabbing the deity's hand. "M'lord!" She pulled the back of the god's fingers and pressed them against her forehead, holding the position momentarily before looking up at him. For a grown man, he was pretty, she decided innocently. "The crown on your eyes is very pretty! May I touch it? Oh, is Syn right? Is your dragon really a statue? Who is Lady Al… Alair… Alairia? Can't I go with Jared on missions? I can be useful! We make a good team! I promise."

Author: Raith, Posted: Fri Jun 19, 2020 11:06 AM, Post Subject: Court Trickster [O][R?]

My my, how loud his home was becoming. 

Raith smiled a little as he pulled on an open chested shirt and settled his ornate blindfold across his face - he was well known through Revaliir as the Blind God, but past experience taught him that the blindfold whittled down the inane questions about whether or not the name was literal or not. He didn’t have the time or patience for small talk or niceties at the best of times. His time was precious, and his attention fleeting if you were not worthy. 
From his place in the Watchtower he could not hear the conversations being held between his Envoy and their guests, what he could tell was how many of them and how they were feeling - his entire domain was created as a beacon of defense for himself and his Queen, and of course now his adopted daughter. The God of Wrath could not see in the conventional sense, so he had ensured he could see in the unconventional way instead. 

He left the Watchtower, taking the stairs for once rather than shifting location of the doors to take him directly to his Throne Room. He entered just as a question was posed by the being whose body weighed heaviest, his movements the most obvious to watch given his stature. ”Well put, you are correct, whatever divine order I give to those looking to make a home here I expect to be carried out immediately and without the need to ask twice,” Raith stated simply as he strode across the room to join the group. ”I take it these Pilgrims have answered our call Syn?” He asked his envoy, not feeling the need to introduce himself. 

Author: Ferrus Faustinus, Posted: Thu Jun 18, 2020 5:46 PM, Post Subject: Court Trickster [O][R?]

Ferrus listened intently to what the lady vampire had to say, and it was just about what he had expected. Warnings of how this endeavor is not for the faint of heart, of how they will have to do things some would consider Evil. Truly a rather banal and plain talk. Ferrus knew from the momment he heard "Vampire Court", that an easy and peaceful life was not an option if one would join it's ranks. That morality would be thrown out into the trash on more than occasion. That much was obvious from the start……however this was not the reason the man obscured by an crimson cloak seen all of this with such nonchalantness. True reason was that……he never was a moral person, nor was his life ever peaceful and easy. He has invested most of his life into seeking out secrets and knowledge, a pursuit that would leave those faint of heart in the dirt…..or worse. He had to do many a despicable things, not out of plasure or need to do them, but because they were necessary and necessity oft is not equal to a higher moral ground.

So, after Jared was done showing off his ability to teleport, and listed out his quite interesting skill set, Ferrus steped forth. His visage still obscured mostly by the red cloak, hiding away more of his foreign-to-this world features. He looked, with his two glowing green lights that stood in place of his eyes, straight into the golden orbs and begun to speak.

- My lady, like my companion said, if we wanted an easy life we wouldn't have chosen to climb up a volcano and trudge on through a maze completely blind. - His tone was now considerably more serious than before, although the voice itself still was an unnatural one - And it would be naive of us not to expect for a price to be paid for joining this court. Unsavory tasks, despicable actions and acts of evil will be asked of us, but we…..I am ready to carry them out. My conscience is already burdened with such things and few more will not make an difference. Besides…….those tasks will be given unto us by an divine will and what divine ordain must be done, should it not?

Author: Jared, Posted: Thu Jun 18, 2020 12:51 PM, Post Subject: Court Trickster [O][R?]

After life on their own, he knew that they would never have a peaceful life. They were half vampires. Never to be accepted in a normal vampire world but never to be allowed in the human or fae one. Everywhere they went, they would be in trouble. And then there was the truth that he couldn't protect his sister forever. She had already been exposed to performing crimes of thievery and had seen enough violence for a lifetime. At least here she would get rewards for those deeds. Ambition glittered in Jared's eyes as he knew this was the place to get higher in life. 

"I don't think I would bring my sister to a temple on a volcano if I was worried about safety or peace." He stated, "I'd rather have her learn to be the wolf than the victim." 

He knew the Coven was going to be doing things considered evil but if that was what they needed to do in order to succeed, then so be it. Jared decided to demonstrate his abilities. A hint of mischief passed through his eyes before he teleported behind Syn. There was a double in his place that would keep her attention and make it seem as though he never left. Jared whispered gently into her ear.

"Is this your card?" 

As he spoke he handed her a beautiful jester's card. The jester's card was unique. The jester was dressed up in colors but had a mischievous cat like smile. Behind the Jester was the moon and darkened creatures staring up at the jester with wide empty eyes. Jared teleported back near his sister and let Syn keep the card. He had plenty more where that came from. 

"My talents are in performances like dancing, singing, and espionage." He explained, "Thievery and assassination's are other performances I have experience in. Ever court needs a Jester." 

A professional fool. A trickster with open ears. Somebody who could get into any place, whether it was a local tavern or a gorgeous palace. Slipping in and out of places without even needing to give a real name. His magical abilities assisted in his work and he had many tools at his disposal. Right now he was being upfront about his abilities but this would be the one and only time. 

Author: Syn, Posted: Wed Jun 17, 2020 6:06 PM, Post Subject: Court Trickster [O][R?]

Long, elegant digits drew circles on the edge of the throne as her arm was dangled over the distinguished chair. Her gazes lingered on each of the pilgrims that had made their journey to the temple. It was still intriguing to her that they all had made the trip in similar time and fashion. The rumors had only been put out into the network a short time ago; to already have some takers was interesting. Hopefully, her patron would be pleased with the selection available.

The vixen’s smile softened as she allowed her body’s curves to rest into the carving of the dragon. Index finger tapped upon the obsidian as she listened to each of them speak of how they had come to Orme. Gold orbs shifted to the little girl that was designated the handsome man’s sister. Her brow lifted in curiosity of a child being brought to the temple of Wrath…but then again it was not her family or choice.

When the girl spoke, the red lips of the vampiress curled upwards in a smile that was reserved for the littles. The girl had gumption. ”I know that it looks real, but that is testament to the talent of the artist. This dragon is a statue, nothing more, dear girl.”. Syn stroked the cold stone as if it would prove her words true. ”That does not mean we do not have the assortment of beasts within the walls of my Master’s home. Our Lady Alairia has quite a group of charges. I am sure if we ask, we can see them all.”.

It was the cyborg that was her focused fascination. What in the seven hells was the creature? Syn allowed her one hand to play with an earring while listening to the metal man. A chronicler for Lord Raith? Not exactly what her deity had had in mind for this little gathered group, but could have advantages.

Syn brushed her hair over her shoulder before moving down the small dias with the clicking of her heels. She first made her way to ‘metal-man;’ tracing a long digit along his cloak while walking around him. ”You would be an interesting add considering your appearance. Quite the unique member, you would be.”. The vixen stopped in front of Ferrus with a predatory grin upon her features. ”Our lord has some particular jobs he will ask of the Coven I am putting together. Will these duties be something you would object to less than savory tasks?”. Her question was posed to all in the room.

She backed up from the magi-tech creature in order to move over to Jared and his sister. ”This Coven I’m creating is not for the light of heart. It will not be for those that are looking for a peaceful, and happy living. Though I am sure that my Lady Alairia would take care of your little sister on those sort of missions.” Syn did not want to put the girl into a dangerous position, but this Coven was going to have to do certain things that would not be appropriate for a child….even if Syn had done such things at a younger again than this girl.

Author: Ferrus Faustinus, Posted: Wed Jun 17, 2020 12:30 PM, Post Subject: Court Trickster [O][R?]

An Vampire Court…..well well if that wasn't a suprise. If Ferrus still had them he would have probably raise his eyebrows at this one. He didn't have the most stellar history with the members of the vampire-kind…..to be honest more often than he had to, more or less, wipe them out whenever encountered. Still he had to get that audiance with the God residing here, the Master of the lady who seemed more than comfortable with exposing her ample assets with her reaveling choice of clothing. An Vampiric Temptress, hungry for some carnal pleasure it would seem from the way that she looked at one who named himself Jared. He felt a tinge of sympathy for his fellow traveler. He probably sought out this court for his safety and safety of the little thing clinging to him, but it was clear from they way that Bloodsucking Tempress gazed upon him that he would find more safety in a sewer, rather then in her company.

Oh well no matter, he thought, they were vampires and it was of little interest to him as to what vampires do behind closed doors…….aside from probably tearing eachother to shreds. He had to focus on what was truly of import, namely the opportunities that would be afforded to him if he was to join this court. He would be able to have an daily contact with a God and would benfit from a literal divine protection. Plus if it was a Vampiric court it would certainly mean an easy access to well…..Vampires. Afterall, a chance to dissect one always eluded him, but here he could finnaly get his hands one and see what makes those bloodscukers tick on the inside. There was also probably nigh unlimited amount of resources he could probably manage to gather for his experiments…..if he plays his cards well enough and endears himself to the Master of the court, as well as Knowledge and secrets a God has to certainly have.

Oh so many glorious possibilities, he barely could manage to contain himself. But he could not get ahead of himself, he still needed to join this court, he had to present himself to the best of his abilities before the Temptress, as she was certainly one that would recommend to her Master who would be worthy to join this little nest vipers. He turned his gaze towards the lady vampire and spoke out in his unnatural, artificial voice that was nonthenless jovial and cordial in tone.
- Curiosity brought me here my lady. I heard from the locals that a living God resided here and I just had to find that out for myself! For one rarely gets an oppurtunity to meet a God, afterall. And to me, a scholar who prides himself on seeking out knowledge and secrets, on preserving them and maintaining them…….well that just made it all more harder to resist. And while I had no prior knowledge of the formation of this court, I would too also want to serve in it. For all good royal courts ought to have Royal Chroniclers, those whose duty it would be to put down on paper the goings on of the court and the great events that are certain to transpire during it's existance. However if that's not enough, for me to be allowed in, I would also like to add that I also posses other talents and skills. Like engineering, medicine, blacksmithing, arcane arts and the occult. And even after all this my request shall be denied than so be it, all I ask of is that it would be given proper thought and that it would be judged fairly.

Author: Taliana, Posted: Tue Jun 16, 2020 10:08 PM, Post Subject: Court Trickster [O][R?]

Patience was a virtue. Even in Jared's line of work. As a result, Talia did not balk, nor did she fidget as she stood still at his side, waiting for what was to happen next. She quirked her head to the side as the strange, unnatural voice came from the cloaked stranger, but kept silent as she often did. While the stranger seemed jovial enough, appearances can often be deceiving. 

Instead, her eyes were drawn to where heels clacked against the floor. Talia had seen that dismissive look upon many before, just as she saw that mischievous, hungry look to her brother. Her hand tightened around his fingers. It wasn't that she distrusted the woman, but that she feared that one day, a woman would bat her eyelashes and lead him astray. Still, this was a woman who he was trying to acquire information about the Vampire Court, a court that could help them.

"I can be of use to the Court too," she said in a matter-of-fact tone. "I know you're not the master, but may I play with the dragon? Or at the very least pet it?"

Sometimes… Patience was hard to practice.

Author: Jared, Posted: Tue Jun 16, 2020 9:49 PM, Post Subject: Court Trickster [O][R?]

"Maybe. But we'll have to as him later." Jared said with a soft smile to his sister. 

When the hunched over figure wrapped in a crimson cloak drew near, Jared positioned himself in front of his sister, in case the stranger got any ideas. When the stranger spoke it was jovial and friendly but unnatural. Jared kept a weary eye on the stranger but realized that he wasn't going to attack them outright. He watched as the stranger bowed as a greeting then decided to speak. 

"Jared." He introduced himself, "And she's Talia. Nice to meet you." 

His words were brisk and to the point. Whomever the stranger was, they would have to be careful. Unlike humans, fae, or even vampires, he didn't seem to have any easy to exploit weaknesses. Before he could ponder this new puzzle, a stranger stepped into the throne room. Jared first could hear the sound of her heels clacking against the floor before she revealed herself. Her eyes scanned the group but made a particular stop at himself. Then she spoke with a purring voice as she inquired to their visit. 

"A little bird told me that a Vampiric Court would be set up under The God of Wraths' rule." He explained, "I would like to take this opportunity to serve him in the court. This little one here is my sister. I bring her with me as much as possible." 

The main reason for joining any Vampire court was simple. Safety. It was an unfortunate truth that the majority of the world would kill a vampire the second they saw one. A vampire court gave them numbers against these foes, when by themselves they would have to rely on raw strength. As for why he chose this one, it provided a unique opportunity. Many vampire courts cared more about breeding than pure talent. With this one, they might have a shot to expand and prosper. 

He waited to hear the stranger's explanation but kept his eyes on Syn. Jared noticed that her eyes lingered and had a glint of…mischief. He'd seen it before. Despite her lovely dress and the fiery red hair, Jared had to focus on the business at hand. It was never a good idea to get distracted when figuring out the details of work. Especially when it involved working for a god. 

Author: Syn, Posted: Tue Jun 16, 2020 8:59 PM, Post Subject: Court Trickster [O][R?]

It had been a long day. That encapsulation of the day was a complete and utter understatement. Syn listened to the water as a small splash of water rippled through her large bath. Long tanned legs were exposed to the air as they hung over the side of her porcelain bathtub. Her golden eyes watched as droplets of water fell to the floor, where she was certain a small puddle was forming. At the moment she didn’t care. She sunk further into her tub until she was fully submerged. Red hair floated around her like a halo until finally the vixen resurfaced for a gasp of air. When above the water again, a silent servant was standing near the door of the bathing room. Syn made no effort to cover her naked form while lifting a brow of question towards the man. ”Visitors have made their way through the maze and into the Temple,” his voice subtle, yet a firmness to it. Syn filed that away for later in hopes to make him use that tone with her again. ”Fine. I will be down in a moment. We shan’t bother our Lord with this until deciphering their reasons for being here.”

Water splashed from the tub as she lifted her legs high to exit the tub. Back turned to allow a robe to be wrapped around her shoulders. Syn had a mischievous smile upon her lips, but business was always to come before pleasure. As she turned away from the attendant, her fingers traced the male’s arm to indicate later intentions.

The assistant took little time to get dressed considering her clothing was far from being elaborate. Syn wore her tight fitting black dress that barely covered the ample curves of her ass. Straps were thin to hold them over her shoulders, along with a deep cut V to accentuate the cleavage. Black high heeled shoes clicked on the marble floor as she made her way down to the throne room from her private quarters.

The scents in the air told the vampiress that there were now three pilgrims that had made their way to the throne room. A well sculpted brow lifted in curiosity of what could have brought all three at once to her Master’s home. Few were able to get through the maze, let alone three at the same time. Manicured red nails flipped the high red pony tail that was tied perfectly at the top of the back of her head. She allowed her nails to brush the silver large hoop earrings that adorned her pointed ears. Her outfit wasn’t the best one she had, but for a quick pinch it would work.

Clicking of her heels announced the red haired vampiress’ arrival into the throne room. Three oddly mixed arrivals waited patiently, though two of them seemed connected considering the way the girl clung to the man. When her golden gaze fell upon the man, her smile exposed her canines in delight. He was handsome. The other male in the room was odd to say the least. Her ‘fascination’ was not heightened in the least.

Syn cleared her throat while moving across the room. Hand grazed the outline of the obsidian dragon in a sultry way before her elbow rested on the throne’s back. ”Well, well, well,” she purred at her guests. ”It’s not often we get so many in one little pack. Pray tell me what brings such a group of fine travelers to my Master’s abode.”. Her eyes shifted from person to person, though they lingered longer upon the young man. Head tilted slightly to the side in a predatory way with a glint in her eye.

Author: Ferrus Faustinus, Posted: Tue Jun 16, 2020 7:18 PM, Post Subject: Court Trickster [O][R?]

Ferrus was never one to easily back off from anything, no matter how dangerous, harsh or even un-called such thing could be. However this situation in which he was now was……well it wasn't too much but it did made him have instinctive second thoughts. Thankfuly his body and instincts served him, not he them, so he could easily supress his mental weakness for as long as he needed to and oh boy it seemed that he would need to keep them supressed for a while. When he heard of an gate to a domain of an God to be located on this here Island, he almost could not contain himself. Another living God to meet, oh how stimulating. The power he must have and knowledge he must posses, truly an oppurtunity of an liftime if not several! He took off immedietly to have an audiance with this god……despite all the warnings local gave him. 

Now he knew that he should have heeded them. If he did he would have been better prepared. Oh well at the very least the worst part, the hellish climb up a active Volcano, was now behind him. Now he had to deal with being blind in a maze. 

To be frank he had no problems with being blinded, he had to deal with such circumstances many times before and had gotten used to using his Omnisian Axe as a walking and support cane. However having to navigate a maze while blind?  It was something else. 

"No matter." He thought. "I just need to be persistent and clever about this." 

And so after a long while (Telling exact time in a maze while blind is rather difficult) Ferrus managed to leave the accursed maze and moved on towards the Citadel. He however had noticed that there was someone else up ahead of him. Another pilgrims perhaps? Oh well might as well get aquainted. 

Soon Jared and his sister could see and hear an figure approaching them. Said figure was hunched over and also completely obscured by an crimson cloak. Only exception being gloved hand clutching a strangę ornamental pole-axe. Said weapon's head was composed of a fairly normal axe blade and a spear head. …but also a strange ornament in place of an hammer head on the other side of the blade. Said ornament appeared to be half of a massive cog with an half of an skull sculpted inside it. The Pole-Axe would also Spark with energy from time to time. 

- Ah hello fellow travelers - he greated Jared and his sibling. The tone of his voice was jovial and friendly, however the voice itself was weird. It didn't sound natural, like it was produced by vocal cords. It also lacked an eatheric echo which was common with magical communication. It didn't sound right, like something inaninate trying to copy emotions.
- I assume you too have came here to have an audiance with the God residing in this realm? If yes I must say that I am quite excited to meet you. Oh but where are my manners. Please excuse me. - He said as he bowed down slightly  - My name is Ferrus Faustinus, pleased to meet you. …?

Author: Taliana, Posted: Tue Jun 16, 2020 6:40 PM, Post Subject: Court Trickster [O][R?]

Talia enjoyed to stay by Jared's side. He could hardly go anywhere without her being nearby. Her large mulberry eyes gazed up at him seriously. "Yes, Jared." A small hand slipped into his, a firm grip tying her to reality. Once they stepped into the maze, something she would have loved solving, her world went dark. Jared's hand told her that he was still there, despite the lack of light to tell her otherwise.

"Jared, why does the ground tickle?" she asked as they felt the vibrations. They walked and walked, having had to double back twice. Talia thought she was beginning to understand the trick of the maze by the time they made it out. Large towers stood high above them, lava bubbled somewhere below. She climbed onto Jared's back when offered, if only to gaze up at the Celestial Citadel in wonder. Jared marched on ahead, up to the large steel doors and into more darkness.

When the hall opened into a circular room, Talia's breath was taken away by the large dragon that sat in the center, it's claw on the marble throne. As desperate as she wanted, however, she knew better than to run up and investigate a large, fire breathing reptile. So, as she climbed off her brother's back, Talia tucked her hand in his again. "Do you think the master would let me play with his dragon?" she asked curiously, giving Jared a pleading smile.

Author: Jared, Posted: Tue Jun 16, 2020 6:23 PM, Post Subject: Court Trickster [O][R?]

A young man stood in front of the gates that lead to the Raiqi Labyrinth. He had done his research beforehand about the temple from other people who had successfully visited and those who failed. He knew ahead of time that the maze would be dark and almost impossible to navigate through. Jared smiled and shoved the gates open. He looked at his side to check if his little sister Taliana was with him. Another reason that he had done his research. He wouldn't have brought his sister unless he was certain that he could protect her from the dangers of the temple. 

"Make sure you stay by my side sis." He said to her, "Don't let go of my hand for any reason. Got it?"

He walked with her down to the maze. It was just as dark as he'd been told. Lowering himself to the ground, Jared touched the surface and focused on what he felt. The vibrations through the ground were clear. Standing back up, he began to travel through the maze. As a child he adored puzzles and riddles. Instead of playing kickball with the other children, he would play with mazes and magic. After two dead ends, he figured out the trick and managed to guide the both of them to the end. They were free, finally! It was a fun little game that he enjoyed, despite the two failures. Seeing the path ahead of them, Jared knelt down to the ground. 

"Here. Get on my back and I'll give you a ride." He said to Taliana. 

Once she was on his back, he ensured she was safely on and stood up. Jared climbed his way towards the Celestial Citadel. Eventually they got to the doors. The doors were made up of blackened steel. The constellations seemed closer now than ever before. But that was not why there were here. He shoved the doors opened and entered the citadel. Jared walked through the hallway, still carrying his little sister on his back. It wasn't until they entered the throne room that he put her down. Once Taliana was on the ground, he took a moment to observe the room. It was owned by a god, that was crystal clear. Jared ran his hand through his hair as he relaxed for a moment. 

"Looks like we finally made it." He said with a smile.