Ionio Hetarioi

[Affiliated with Knight's Vocation]

[volcanicblazer-deactivated20210]

   It was surprising that he’d revealed his name, and even moreso that the name was of a legendary figure. Alexander the Great? From the information Eugene had been flooded with during his first moments of the war, he’d learned that beings called ‘Heroic Spirits’ would be participating, so was it true that he was actually standing before someone spoken of in history books? It was certainly interesting and more than he’d expected. Iskander called himself a Rider, which meant that the two were essentially enemies because of the Grail War, but he seemed nice enough. The smiles and readiness to reveal his name further interested Eugene.

   “I see. So you’re a Servant, then? This war will probably put us on opposing sides someday.” The mention of Iskander being a commander as well was still hanging in his mind, so the Salamander decided to ask about it. “A commander? It seems our appearances aren’t our only similarities; I also led an army before being dragged into this.”

[akingforhismen-blog]

Sure, subterfuge and stealth were the norm for most participants in the Grail War, whether Master or Servant. But Iskander prided himself on not being part of that typical mold of competitors. His approach to the Grail War was much like his approach to conquering the world. Rather than taking this sort of journey's on ones own shoulders, it was better to distribute the burden, the passion, the excitement and glory. To form an army that would shake the earth and make all who opposed them tremble in fear before being swept up in the spirit of conquest. Truly, that was the only way to have an experience such as this.

"Only if circumstances force either of our hands." Iskander shrugged, which was an impressive movement in his massive shoulders. "In truth, there is no need for such scattered fighting when those with common sense and combined passion can come together as a group. An army, even, to claim the Grail." An army which Iskander would definitely be forming in the days to come. Eugene's mention of being a commander only made the king beam wider. "Ah, is that so? Good! Then you understand the joy and intensity of the battlefield. Intriguing! Perhaps you're an incarnation of myself in another life. Would that not be appropriate?"

[volcanicblazer-deactivated20210]

   It was only out of the corner of his eyes that Eugene noticed him, but the appearance alone caused his stride to falter and made him take a second look. The man he’d seen was a great deal bulkier than he was and a big taller, but they shared several features. It wasn’t as though they were twins, but Eugene certainly felt that it was odd considering that he’d designed his player model practically from scratch after using one of the Salamander race standards, and now there was someone who bore a resemblance to him.

   With his curiosity roused, the General turned and crossed over to the other side of the street where the fellow red-haired man had caught his attention. The clinking of his armor likely already alerted his presence, but Eugene made sure to announce himself once he’d came into contact with the other. After stepping around into his line of sight, he spoke, “I am General Eugene. I’d appreciate it if you’d state your name.” Of course, chances of that were slim; this man was most probably a fellow participant in the war, after all.

[akingforhismen-blog]

Just as the other man eyed him from a corner, Iskander acknowledged him with a nod and beaming smile. So, he was back in the war for the Grail, was he? Excellent! Despite the fitting conclusion to his previous foray into this war, Iskander knew that he still had much more to give to his potential Master. Which meant that, as always, he would give his utmost to bringing an end to this war, and creating an army to obtain the Grail.

Eugene? An interesting name. Then again, much of this day and age was of interest to the conqueror. The names, the clothing, the places and technology. It was a fountain of newfound knowledge that the conqueror was bathing in, but at the moment he was currently focusing on this strange doppleganger. Not identical, no. But they shared many similar traits. And as he'd already divulged his name, it was only fair that Iskander should do the same.

"I am known as Iskander the Great, Alexander in these modern times. A Rider-class Servant and participant in the current Grail War. It is a pleasure to meet a fellow commander such as yourself!"

[volcanicblazer-deactivated20210]

akingforhismen started following you

[akingforhismen-blog]

[akingforhismen-blog]

The Darkness is Rising [KV Event]

A pain, almost. A throbbing inside his head. The conqueror thought for a bit, then dismissed it. Was it a fever? But that wasn't possible. After all, he was a Heroic Spirit. Summoned by the Grail. Things like that couldn't happen to a hero. It was impossible. Completely and utterly impo-

But no. Heroes fell all the time, didn't they? Those who had ridden into battle with Iskander. they had all fallen. Each and every one. Every man dies. Even those who lived within the hearts of men. What of then, when those men died? And those that came after? No man was immortal. None would live forever. Aristotle had gone, and Baegos had gone. And Hephaestion... Hephaestion... felled by illness. Poison, more like. A jealous people. A raging, mad, psychotic people that had tried to take away all that was good from Iskander.

It was why people could not be trusted to govern themselves. It was why his reign had worked so well. Because the people were his sheep. They were his to control, and to slaughter. A name in history was not enough. He had worshipped the gods for so long. Perhaps now they were blessing him. There was power, coursing through his veins. There was strength. Bleeding, aching, painful strength. There was hurt and fear and madness too. But above all, the truth. That to bring this world together, he would have to first tear it apart.

"A king must be... both loved and hated. For it is only in love that a people can live, and it is only in hatred that they can grow stronger. A king must take command. Take charge. A king must stand on the backs of others... unless he cannot trust them Then it is those people he must kick down. What is a king? Not man. Not myth. Not title nor deed. A king is an ideal that his people must aspire to... and the nightmare they must fear."

The darkness had taken root now, and the king once clothed in scarlet red and shining gold was now swathed in red and black. Alter Iskander had awakened, and Fuyuki City would know no peaceful nights.

[akingforhismen-blog]

OOC: Wow holy cripes how long has it been since I was here. HRMM!

Well, if anyone wants to continue those threads I left (I am so sorry), don't hesitate to message me while I try and get this muse to work!

[orderedtolive-blog]

Introduction

[orderedtolive-blog]

“That’s really nice!” Waver smiled, wondering what kind of warriors these three were. They must be really brave, or else Alexander himself wouldn’t think they suited his grand army. But then, he did recruit Waver…

“This war is going better than the last one, don’t you think? You even have a quiet master,” he said. Gosh, the king knew he could be whiny.

But then his smile faded a bit when he thought of his new servant. He sighed, Berserker’s bright red suit coming to his mind. “Well, I wish my servant would only want to serve,” he commented, annoyed, “but I’m glad his ego doesn’t seem to be as big as yours.”

Summoning another king would be just as hellish, he thought.

And with that, he took a mindless sip of his beverage, later discovering it was too much. Waver coughed heavily, cursing everything about it. Even the little green olive at the bottom. It looked so easy to drink when everyone else did it…

[akingforhismen-blog]

It was good to see Waver enthusiastic and cheerful. After all, Waver was his closest living companion, and it warmed Iskander's heart to know that the young man was showing enthusiasm rather than whining about something or other to do with the war. "Indeed, although I can't say much about the accommodations. Unlike you, he can't magically pretend to be someone else, so we had to pretend to be tourists who were dating."

And what a mess that was turning out to be. For some reason, their new "landlord" liked taking notes on the lives of his new tenants. They couldn't have known he was a writer, so his activity was simply noted as suspicious... and more than a little creepy.

The Rider merely raised an eyebrow at Waver's sudden change in mood. "They're really that bad, ah?" If Waver was only annoyed, that was fine. Iskander had a feeling that Waver was one of those people who never ceased being annoyed at something or other to do with life.

And now Waver was choking on his drink. The conqueror had half a mind to whack him on the back, but in that state Waver would probably dislocate his spine. Instead, the Rider merely sipped his own drink and watched the boy struggle. "... Do you want a weaker drink? A Shirley Temple, maybe?"

[akingforhismen-blog]

A Most Joyous Occasion! [KV Open]

[sekishi]

“That’s for sure.”

She grinned, draining the can of its contents. The taste was something she could really get used to.

The world—or worlds, she should say—were full of countless wonders and experiences. The glittering stars that swirled through the depths of the Empty Sea had been a dazzling sight to behold, but Tokyo’s steel towers that pierced through the clouds were just as fantastic. That was something she would never be able to see back home. Her world was one that could never achieve any sort of industrial revolution.

“My birthday? It’s June 20th.”

Her parents had never made anything special of her birthday back in Japan. They were very rarely accompanied with grand celebrations of any kind in the Twelve Kingdoms either—at least as far as she knew. She’d certainly never seen any.

The palace only housed those who were immortal, and many of them simply no longer cared about their age or stopped counting. Perhaps it was more common out in the villages and she had just never stumbled upon one.

Even in her case, her age was never celebrated. It was the length of her rule that mattered. Her current reign of three years was hardly anything to start partying over—Jokaku’s had been twice that before she lost the way. It would be a very long time before anyone in Kei started celebrating her time.

Her mind lingered on the thought of those three years. She was around twenty now, wasn’t she? She certainly didn’t feel it. Or look it, for that matter. Regardless of how many centuries she lived, she would always look sixteen.

“…Though my family doesn’t usually celebrate stuff like that.”

[akingforhismen-blog]

Fine wine and high-class booze was always nice, but for simple gatherings nothing could beat the simple pleasures of a good beer. And it was good to see, or taste, that some things didn't change with the world. In this world of steel and fire, of technology never before known to mankind. But change and progress were always good. They had been a force Iskander had pushed forward during his royal years. Never sit still. Keep moving.

"June 20... A good day."

Of course, all days were a good day, if one wanted them to be. For Iskander every day had been a good day. Barring one. But he would not let that day mar the others. His friend would not have wished for it to be that way. Besides, today was a day for celebration! Not a day for remembering the traumatic past. And there was no better way to celebrate a warrior than to drink.

The only true immortals that Iskander knew to walk the Earth were the gods themselves. Zeus, Poseidon, Hades and the rest, all of them timeless. Everyone else could be extraordinarily powerful, earth-shakingly powerful, but one day even they would be no more than dust in the wind.

"... Doesn't celebrate? Tch." Banging his can of beer on the table, the conqueror shook his head. "Unacceptable! It means we have several years of birthdays to male up for you today, then. Hey, everybody!" The people at the nearby picnic tables turned to see the overexcited conqueror stand up.

"Why don't we sing Happy Birthday for this girl over here? And sing it loudly!"

[mini-pink-terror-blog]

Like a kid in a candy store | Open/Intro | Yachiru + Iskander!

[mini-pink-terror-blog]

He’d been fighting for two thousand years, as far as she could understand - if you’d lived that long, and you were in this war, you had to have been, right? Yachiru’s expectation was that all of the servants were like her - doing their own thing, which would obviously be fighting, until they were summoned to this really important battle. They’d only lost to Ichigo because he’d cheated, so it wasn’t really a loss to her mind, and Ken-chan would never lose again. Of that she was completely and utterly sure.

“But it will work! If they cheat, Ken-chan and I won’t have any fun, so we’ll have to kill them in a single blow!” That was her logic - if they were cheating, they weren’t any fun, and if they insisted on fighting when they weren’t fun, they would be killed. Admittedly, their definition of ‘fair’ was likely to be skewed, when it came to fighting. It wasn’t about honour as much as dying honourably, only fighting people strong enough to stand a chance, and informing your opponent you would fight before attempting to finish the battle. Attacking from behind was fine, if you had already started fighting, but attacking without warning with intent to injure, that wasn’t fair at all.

He seemed similar enough to Ken-chan, to her - they were both big, and had the appearance of being powerful. She wouldn’t have suggested they would fight if she had thought otherwise - the few people who they were friends with were usually those who had fought with them, both as allies and as opponents. “The store… yeah!”

She’d completely forgotten about it, talking to Iskandar. Which store was he meaning? He’d probably regret asking her soon enough, finally seeing one of the best sights in the world. A candy store! One moment she’d be standing beside him, before Shunpo-ing to the door, a large smile on her face. There was simply no way a child could move that fast, but Yachiru had more important things on her mind. Things like candy.

“Yay!” It would be concerning, for anyone in the shop, seeing the little pinkette running around, looking at absolutely everything in the store. “This is amazing! Candy~!”

[akingforhismen-blog]

Not necessarily. It was more like being in a form of stasis, really. Waiting for the summons of the Grail. Being taken back into the world of the living, with the knowledge of this world and its technology... for the most part, at least. Some things still boggled the night, but Iskander was fairly well-adjusted to this day.

"... OH?" Iskander was smiling wide now. The prospect of a challenge like this! A man who could kill in a single blow... there had been an Assassin who could do that, so far as Iskander knew. Or, rather, that the Grail knew. Another helpful feature of being brought forward in time. The man had been Japanese, and had achieved some sort of legendary sword technique. But this couldn't be the same man. Judging from his companion, Assassin was far too subtle for this Ken-chan... Still, to fight and die honorably was a high honor indeed. Iskander had died once in shame, and once honorably. The latter outcome was certainly better, although not dying was the best of all.

And if he had doubted the child's strength before, the conqueror did no longer. The speed in which she had entered was absolutely inhuman. And not just the "excited for a candy" fast, but truly blinding. If that man had even a fraction of her speed, it would certainly make for an interesting match against a chariot as fast as lightning. Still, how was he meant to keep track of the little one? She kept bobbing and weaving through the crowd, out of sight for long stretches of time.

"Don't go too far ahead!"

After all, he doubted she had her own money to spend on sweets.

[akingforhismen-blog]

And So I Say, Are You My Master? [Closed]

[crystalicemirrors-blog]

In retrospect, such quick acceptance of strangers was one to be further observed. These situations did not tend to end very well for any of the people involved. Any suspicion could immediately be quelled by the sight of Mr. Suna’s humble abode. It didn’t look anything at all like the home of someone who could become hostile at a moment’s notice. No, it was more along the lines of an average person who’d just so happened to be a good samaritan.

Inside, it would seem that Haku’s story would prove to be just a little too convincing. He’d been used to being called a female in the past, but to this extent? He was almost prepared to explain that he was, in fact, a boy, but stopped just short of it. Mr. Suna’s assumption had inadvertently filled in a few more gaps in their story. If a female persona would need to be kept in order to remain relatively inconspicuous, then so be it.

And more pieces of this deceptive puzzle were beginning to fall into place. ‘Yuki,’ a native of Japan, and ‘Alex’ hailing from a land that sounded odd and distant. To not be able to travel to that area because of stolen possessions attested to the distance between Japan and that America. This story was making more sense by the second.

It was probably best that Iskander gave his words last. Was there anything else to say, apart from volunteering to assist in trivialities? Haku simply remained silent, awaiting the next words that would come out of someone’s mouth, supporting the Servant’s statement with a brief and… almost dainty nod.

[akingforhismen-blog]

They would have to look into the history of the man housing them one day. Snoop amongst his things, see if he had any unusual secrets... it was a necessary thing to do, if one was unsure of whether a tenant was secretly a serial killer who targeted young women and burly men or not. Either that or a conman... Nevertheless, Iskander was sure that he'd be able to take on this stick of a guy. Unless he was a Master. But since there weren't any marks on him, and Iskander could sense no energy of a Heroic Spirit, the man was merely a mortal threat... if even that.

Hopefully, his Master wouldn't mind staying a woman for too long. It wasn't like they would actually share a room. That was what a Servant's spirit form was for. But it seemed like Mr. Suna might have mind-reading powers, because-

The apartment's small, so you'll need to share the foldout sofa bed... I'm not sure if it'll both of you, though. Anyways, I have work. See you two in a few hours. No shenanigans!

At the abrupt exit, Iskander released his pent-up laughter. "Well "Yuki", seems we've gotten ourselves into a lot of trouble. Let's hope his work keeps him away from home more often!" The pat on the back the conqueror gave his Master was a bit more like a whack. It seemed to be the de facto strength setting for the Servant. "You're pretty good at acting though. Good job! Where'd you learn that?"

[akingforhismen-blog]

An Army To March Through The World! [First Open]

[themagicaldolly]

Knowing Midori, if she had been in that time period, she would’ve found a way to join anyway. Probably something cliche’ like dressing up like a man to be accepted. All that is to be said is that there would be lots of shenanigans. All of them actually. But it would end well. It usually did with Midori involved. Usually, anyway.

Obviously they would have to have story telling time. They could exchange battle stories and embarrassing things that happened with their companions. Midori had plenty of those. Some of which she may have caused. Her companions were too easily riled up sometimes. It made for amusing stories at least.

She watched silently as the bulls ran off to rest, or whatever they did in that other dimension. By the time they pulled off though the two of them were surrounded by people with cameras of all sorts. Fortunately Midori was used to this kind of thing, actually photo shoots in cons were a lot more rowdy than this so it took all of ten seconds for her to start posing.

“I made mine! It took a long time but it was super fun!” She managed toanswer all of their questions easily and quickly while also doing most of the pose requests that were shouted out. Such is the prowess of a cosplay con idol! When she noticed Iskandar’s speechlessness, she nudged him and whispered to him. “You’re supposed to pose silly! They like it a lot!” Obviously he needed lots of help with his idol skills.

[akingforhismen-blog]

Either that, or she could have tried to emulate the Amazons and become a fearsome female warrior in her own right. Midori was certainly welcome to try. Women could become just as respected as men; wasn't the legend of Atalanta who sailed to search for the Golden Fleece? And there were a number of women who had joined the Ionioi Hetarioi before the Grail Wars. All of them just as formidable as the men, and maybe even more ruthless.

And yes, story telling time seemed a fine idea! Hopefully with more companions and a lot more drink to go around. After all, two completely sober people weren't going to have a lot of fun telling stories. But three, four, five or even more companions made for a fine evening of tales of bravado, and amazing escapades.

Pose? Well, he certainly knew how to do that... Turning his look of confusion into a confident grin, he began to pose and flex his muscles to oohs and aahs of admiration. "This was crafted by a good friend of mine!" Which was true. His blacksmith was one of his greatest allies, and a member of the Ionioi Hetarioi besides. But it seemed convincing eno-

"What anime are you cosplaying from? I've never seen that costume before!"

A slight pause, before he responded with gusto. "It's called Heroic Spirits! The adventures of great heroes from he past, who have been revived in the modern day! It wasn't successful, and copies are quite rare... but it's probably one of my favorite shows. I'm playing Iskander, the Great Conqueror!"

[vasidra-archived]

*:addo ajjalani [ open ]

[vasidra-archived]

A conqueror. One that she had never heard of before, no songs or tales of war stories or even a mention. He called himself the King of Conquerors — Iskander the Great. With such a title she found it odd how she had never even caught wind of this man, but she had to remind herself once more that many of the inhabitants of this city did not come from her world, but if he did hold such a title than she would at least acknowledge the fact that this man must have been quite a character during his life time if he truly was the “King of Conquerors”. Dany couldn’t continue to waste her time wondering about his life and his achievements as he revealed to her that he was indeed a Servant.

An enemy, and it was very possible that he was here to harm her in some way — but if that was the case, wouldn’t he have done so long ago? It would have been wise if he hadn’t even revealed himself to her but instead he had, and she could only question whether he had an intention to fight or not. Her gaze slowly shifted down to her gloved hand, almost as if staring right through the fabric and looking upon the markings that were settled behind it. It would only take a second to summon the Archer class Servant … she kept that in mind as she turned her stare back to the Rider and nodded.

“Indeed, Ser, I am a Master in this war. … And where is your own?”

[akingforhismen-blog]

Perhaps it was because of her land being far away from his own. It was a wonder; Macedonia and Persia, Asia and Egypt... on the map he had seen upon his arrival in Fuyuki City, Iskander had marveled at how small they had been. These lands he had spent his entire life conquering were but a fragment of the world now before him. What a sobering thought, but also an enlightening one as well. Still, the white-haired girl seemed warier now, and with good reason. To meet an enemy taller and stronger than you was frightening indeed. But small as she and her dragons were, Iskander wouldn't count her out in a fight. It didn't pay to underestimate one's opponents.

An enemy, yes... but only in name. After all, in this war his strategy of recruiting was working far better than in the Fourth. Besides, despite his love of conquest and glory, Iskander was still rational. He knew the value of having followers and friends. After all, what was a king without his people? Nothing but a lonely fool. His eyes darted to the glove she was staring intently at, his suspicions confirmed. What kind of Servant did she have? It would be interesting to see... but that would involve starting a fight with an undefended Master, and there was no glory for cowards.

"My Master? ... Who knows? Probably at home, or skulking around. It's not like I'm gonna drag them around with me every time I go out. Besides, I already have money to shop so there's no need!" Accompanied with a cheerful grin.

[akingforhismen-blog]

A Most Joyous Occasion! [KV Open]

[sekishi]

“Eh—”

She blinked, nearly dropped the drink in her hands.

Two thousand. Being an immortal herself, the age was nothing short of impressive. Many of her companions were at least several centuries old, but she had never associated much with anyone claiming to be over a thousand.

However, in this world, the age was quite clearly out of place. This man had to be either positively scrambled in the brain—which wouldn’t be too shocking, really—or caught up in all this Grail business. Both seemed equally plausible. It was probably best to just ignore the implications of the comment and play along.

“…That, err, must make this a pretty extraordinary birthday, then.” She chuckled and took a gulp out of the can. It tasted much different from what she expected. Of course. Beer and wine were completely separate things—it was a mistake to assume that it would taste similar to the latter.

“Can’t say I’ve met anyone that old before.”

[akingforhismen-blog]

The look on her face was priceless... but that was probably because she didn't understand the nature of Heroic Spirits. To be a Heroic Spirit was like being in stasis. Waiting until such a time as they were summoned forth into the world. Which meant hanging around and twiddling one's thumbs for two thousand years... which sounded terrible. Iskander couldn't even remember what the afterlife was like, though. Perhaps like Okeanos.

Wasn't it the obvious conclusion? After all, Alexander's time in the annals of history had ended at the far too young age of 33. Not enough time for him to truly conquer the entire world as he had hoped. It was why the Grail had brought him back; his indomitable will, bombastic nature and far-reaching dreams had given him the status of Heroic Spirit.

But he couldn't fault her for the surprise. It wasn't every day you met a man well over 2000 years old. Technically speaking. Instead, he merely savored the beer. This was the drink of Egyptian kings, wasn't it? And he had been a pharaoh as well. How appropriate. 

"There's a first time for everything. Meeting new people, seeing the world... even being in Japan. But when's your birthday? I want to know how many people I'll have to buy presents for today!"

[orderedtolive-blog]

Introduction

[orderedtolive-blog]

“You say that, but this is exactly what we’re doing, right?” he said, refering to the ‘heart-to heart conversation’. “You just don’t want to admit it, so you even ordered alcohol!” Silly king. Did he really think he could fool one of his greatest subjects?

He decided to not even comment on the part about getting taller. Time itself should do the trick, and if it didn’t, so what? Really, he had more important things to worry about other than being taller than bookshelves.

But overall, Waver was just glad he could fight alongside him.

“So, how many people has Your Majesty gathered so far? Aside from me, of course,” he was expecting to hear the other say he didn’t find anyone yet. The last time he tried to, well, gather the other heroic spirits, didn’t quite work out.

Waver didn’t mind getting ‘something with an umbrella,’ because he had never drank before and he wasn’t stupid. “You know, you’re just as rude as ever. I bet your new master didn’t even try to change your ways,” he said, jokingly.

[akingforhismen-blog]

Smiling wryly, the conqueror couldn't suppress his laughter. "I guess so! But heart-to-heart's such a weak term for it. These are discourses. Assemblies, even!" Grand terms for a grand king. Still, the king should have known that it wouldn't fool Waver. They had been Master and Servant, but also follower and leader. Friends. And good friends could read each other better than anyone.

But his grin grew even wider at the mention of the allies he had gathered, mostly because this time it had actually worked. Mostly because the people he had spoken to weren't knights or kings, bound by the oaths of those two kinds of people. It was only three right now, but three was a lot better than the last war. With great aplomb, he held up three fingers.

"Three. But it's better than nothing. One girl of the Caster class, and two Masters. The two Masters are close and I helped to reunite them, but I don't know how powerful their Servants are yet. Much more successful than the last Grail War, don't you think?" Iskander laughed happily as the drinks arrived. A bottle of beer for the king, and a martini for his companion. "That's the strongest they have?" He seemed a tad doubtful, but began to drink before wiping his mouth on the back of his hand.

He shrugged. "If he wanted to do that, he'd have to use a Command Spell. But he's quiet. His only wish is to serve... which is odd. I mean, I know you follow me, but we can also be equals. My Master? ... I'm just not sure." A pause, as he drank his beer. "What's your new Servant like? I want to know what to expect when we meet!"

[akingforhismen-blog]

And So I Say, Are You My Master? [Closed]

[crystalicemirrors-blog]

It was fortunate for the both of them that Iskander could fill in the holes that Haku might have left in his explanation. Fate seemed to be smiling on the two, since the stranger on the inside was both amiable, agreeable, and for the most part, gullible. Whatever Rider said would have to be remembered for future reference. Stolen bags made it easier to explain why the two had been ‘robbed’ in the first place.

When Mr. Suna accepted the two into his home, it seemed that they had caught a bit of a break. It was better than remaining in the darkened alley, that was for sure. Iskander was quick on his feet with an alias to cover his true identity. In hindsight, alternate identities should have been discussed prior to this predicament. The only thought about a different personality… Well, it was worth a shot.

“Yuki Shien. Please, just call me Yuki. I insist.”

…Yuki. Considering Haku’s androgyny, a feminine sounding name to match his feminine looking appearance might just make his character seem even more interesting to Mr. Suna. To be thinking so swiftly, as this very act of deception determined just how trusting this man would prove to be. The shinobi began trying to think of a response to the man’s second question, about where they had come from. Perhaps he could simply skip over that, and let Iskander pick up from there.

[akingforhismen-blog]

It was how a partnership worked. Two people filling in the gaps for each other. Harmonizing. At the very least, it told Iskander that their partnership would be a fruitful one. The way this man had accepted them into his home so readily was more than a little bit suspicious. However, if he tried anything stupid then the conqueror would deal with him quickly. 

The stranger raised an eyebrow at the young man... woman's name. So it WAS a woman before him. Straddling the line between beautiful and handsome, just like half the J-rockers populating the charts. Rubbing his chin as the larger of the two sat down on a tiny couch, Mr. Suna decided to forget his suspicions.

"Yuki-chan, Alex-san, it's a pleasure to have you in my humble home. Although may I say, Alex-san, that you should probably take better care of your girlfriend in the future."

The last comment had been added by the apartment owner almost as an afterthought, which brought a derisive snort from the Rider. His girlfriend? What kind of flimsy story was that? Then again, it made sense. The cross-racial companionship, Iskander being a take charge person in their encounters... Putting a 'protective' arm around his "girlfriend", the big man grinned.

"I'll be sure to remember that when we get back to America. Yuki is a native, but I'm alright at Japanese, and I've always wanted to visit her home. So we decided to travel here for vacation before our stuff got stolen." A slight shrug. "Still, if you need anything from us, just go ahead and ask."

[orderedtolive-blog]

Introduction

[orderedtolive-blog]

Once again with the friendly but violent pats on the back, but Waver was just so used to it now and all he had to do was breathe deeply. It still hurt, though.

He followed Iskandar to whatever place he had in mind, still feeling like this encounter seemed really unreal. The king probably didn’t imagine Waver would stay in Japan, much less in this city.

“You don’t greet a friend by noticing how tall they are, especially when it has been just a few months ever since you saw them, stupid.”

“I was chosen again to participate,” he said in a low voice, still feeling like he was about to cry, and reluctantly continued, “but I don’t think I have a wish anymore.”

Being recognized as a loyal subject, and more importantly a friend, by Alexander the Great was already enough for him. “And this time… things are much different. Too many people involved.” When they finally sat down, Waver cleared his throat, serious.

“I don’t want to fight for anything, if it’s not for your dreams,” said the retainer. “That would be my wish for the Holy Grail.”

He kind of expected to be made fun of, but he wasn’t ashamed of his wish.

He had also been playing with the videogame Rider bought, since the king himself never got around to it. But they had more important things to talk about.

[akingforhismen-blog]

If Waver had ever complained, Iskander might have tried to change his habits. Just a little bit. Try to ease up... if only slightly. Then again, maybe not. Waver needed to learn how to take whatever life threw at him, even if it was only the pseudo-violence of his good friend and king.

Where they were actually headed was the nearest bar. Waver needed to relax a little, and a bar was also a good place to speak. Too much noise and too much of a ruckus made it a difficult place to listen to others in. This way, any familiars and hangers on wouldn't be as well-informed.

"I greet a friend the way I want to greet a friend! What would you have me do, kneel down till I'm your height and have a heart-to-heart conversation?" Ahh, Waver. Still the same as ever. It was good to know that even after what had happened, they could still be friends.

A slight pause, as they edged closer to where the conquerer wanted to go. "No wish? Not even to grow taller?" A joke, but not a particularly funny one. Waver really did look upset, and perhaps now was the best time.

By the time they sat, the king had heard his wishes. He sat there thinking, for a long time."... I would be honored if you fought alongside me. As my follower, and as my friend. I was actually about to ask if you would." The magus had already proven his bravery and ingenuity to the Rider already; after all, they had once been bonded as well. It was only a formality to even ask him to serve alongside the king.

"But this means you are now a part of my army. And this time it's working! I'm managing to gather the troops, bit by bit. This calls for a celebratory drink, don't you think?" Calling the waitress over, the conqueror grinned before stating his order. "A bottle of the strongest thing you have... and for the boy, maybe something with an umbrella?"

[akingforhismen-blog]

An Army To March Through The World! [First Open]

[themagicaldolly]

Like all girls Midori had her dark magician moments. Every once in a while she’d find herself unable to resist the urge to pull a good prank or two. Nothing horrible, usually something harmless like tapping people on the shoulder and making them think they were imagining things or using her magic to impersonate a haunting. But again, harmless little acts of mischief, she was a teenage girl after all, that never really bothered anyone.

Well, the thing with the knot was brilliant. Takes someone with guts to do something like that. Midori was the kind to rush in without thinking and get herself into a jam before somehow, with luck unheard of, get herself out. Usually be bewildering others with her somewhat brash and straightforward personality. But that is another story all together.

It was probably a good thing that no one really thought anything of it otherwise there’d probably be an issue with the SDF. And honestly, the SDF could be a real hassle to deal with. Especially when you’re trying to be friendly and they just want everything their way or everyone who opposes them dead.

When Iskandar motioned for her to follow Midori, with a grin that could make the sun seem dull in comparison, she hopped out easily and jogged towards him. Before she reached him and he put away his flashy chariot, she turned and gave the oxen a little affection, petting their heads and scratching under their chins before prancing over to Iskandar to explore. Even if they were oxen, magical ones at that, they deserved a little appreciation for their work. At least she thought so.

[akingforhismen-blog]

It wasn't as if the conqueror was a saint, either. There was a reason he was a conqueror, after all. He spilled blood, fought, swore and engaged with vice like the best of them. And yes, he was prone to playing idiotic jokes and teasing people at the most inopportune of times. Still, to have an army one needed to make sure the people within it were trustworthy. Either that or easily dealt with.

If that was the case, they would certainly have many stories to tell. She certainly would have made a good warrior for Iskander in the past. Well... technically, she probably wouldn't have been allowed to take part, but she had the attitude of one. Both ferocity and curiosity, courage and tenacity. That was what it took to become a truly great warrior. That and the actual ability to fight.

The sight of the young girl treating the bulls so well was an amusing sight, and a very sweet one. Iskander couldn't recall the last time anyone had treated the oxen as pets, rather than a means to get from one place to another. Come to think of it... it was about time he showed them a tad more respect. Maybe later. Drawing the Sword of the Kupriotes, Iskander slashed a rift in space and watched as the bulls went through.

As soon as they had done so, a giant mob began to gather around the two companions, taking pictures of their clothing and spreading their excitement. "Where did you get your costumes from?" For once, the conqueror was speechless. "... Costumes?"

[akingforhismen-blog]

A Most Joyous Occasion! [KV Open]

[sekishi]

“…Is that so?”

Youko tilted her head to the side. Of course, different people had different tastes, but there had to be a better spot for this than a park. Folks wouldn’t exactly be too happy about some boisterous man and his friend drinking up the place.

She sat down at the table, looking up in surprise at the mention of other people. Was he planning to rally up every stranger he met for a drink? With the little she knew about the guy, she wouldn’t put it past him.

Not really caring for what she chose, she picked up a can at random. A faint oh escaped her mouth as she saw the label—Kirin. Funny how out of all the brands of beer out there, something called Kirin would be the one she’d end up with. She smirked.

“Ah—that’s right. Cheers!”

Until now, it hadn’t occurred to her that Iskander might not even be speaking Japanese. Everything was automatically translated for her and, similarly, everyone automatically understood all that she said. She really needed to start making an effort to distinguish languages—especially with a setting like this.

“So,” she cracked open the can and smiled, attempting to make small talk. “How old are you today, Iskander?”

[akingforhismen-blog]

Iskander didn't care enough about the opinions of other people today, his reasoning being that it was his birthday. Which meant he had the right to celebrate his birthday at whichever location he pleased. Even if it was a very public place with many families. Besides, this is what men did! Or at least... what many in his army had done after finishing a particularly difficult battle. Stay in a public place with barrels of the finest drink and share a memorable evening with the people of the local town.

Holding a couple of six-packs in each hand, the conqueror grinned at his newfound companion before making the rounds of the tables and families, as well as the solitary men and women. At each he cracked open a can, handing it to the nearest legal adult. Some flat out refused, some hesitantly accepted, and some took it with a cheer and a toast. But none of them could ignore the forceful and boisterous personality, and he always left them with a smile and friendly laughter.

Finally, Iskander made his way back to his table to see his new companion picking out some beer. Following suit, the king opened his own can of beer and began to drain it. Wiping his mouth with his arm, the conqueror answered the question with no hesitation.

"Biologically? 34. In truth? Two thousand, three hundred and sixty-eight years old!"