♢ — LIONHEARTED.

[lockescoles]

“I wanted to protect her… I thought I had. I thought she was safe.”

[doxiical-blog]

goose chase ; // black rabbit.

[highbornoflittlegarden-deactiva]

“You are very welcome Noel-san!” The rabbit smiled. It seemed the boy was still anxious around her. She hoped to help ease that away at least and help him feel more comfortable though. Though the fact he didn’t know where he was supposed to go bothered her a bit.

“Noel-san…Noel did you happen to be given a piece of paper or anything with words on them when you woke up in that room?” When she arrived she had a list of info that declared what her power was, her weapon and her living quarters. Did Noel not receive that?

“Ah, sadly we can’t take the bus. Black Rabbit doesn’t have enough money to get us to wherever we need to go. So my option is to take the train and that way once we figure out where you live we can head there!“

[doxiical-blog]

It was clear that the girl expressed forward sincerity in her actions and aid. In a way, he felt lucky and will remember this moment onward. “I appreciate your help, greatly once again. Thank you.” Due to her kindness, Noel admitting felt protective since she seemed like a genuine character. After all, he was used to and will gladly assist and protect others if needed. Plus, in a place as chaotic as this? ; his actions felt justified.

“Uhhh...I think so.” Scrounging through his pockets, he searches for the texture of paper, a sign that a note was peacefully hiding within his clothes. Though, to no luck -- there wasn’t. “Must have gotten lost in the wind, or somethin.’ I only remember them telling me I lived in delta and got some crummy wooden sword with it.”

He nods along with a nervous gesture. “Don’t worry about it. Going to the train is enough. Also, don’t worry about the pay. Let me offer it as a thank you gift for your help, Black Rabbit.”

[godscath]

          The carvings on the walls had faded with time, but they still cut deep into the stone wall of the cave that was dimly lit by the sun outside. Utena had never bothered to check out the carvings before, had never considered it with how much time all the other thoughts in her head preoccupied her. However today she had found herself with nothing to do, no motivation to take the train to explore a far off district, yet still antsy enough to find her way out of delta. Long fingers running across the engraving of the wall, flecks of stone crumbling onto the ground as her fingers followed along the grooves of the strange letters and pictographs, Utena found herself enraptured by the oddity that was these age old markings.

          Utena had completely forgotten about the rumours however, how the strange oddities on the walls were the supposed link to figuring out the scientists secret behind Hive City. While figuring it out would indeed be a splendid thing–to go back to Ohtori, back to where she belonged with Anthy and Wakaba–she did not think of these things that were so far off from her grasp. She had never seen something quite like this before, there was nothing in her mind she could even compare this to. It was just something all on its own, millenia and galaxies away from her comprehension, and that thought excited her.

          “ Amazing… ” The word found its way effortlessly past her pink lips, eyes still dazzling as she glanced along the aging wall of the cave.

          She imagined herself reading the strange carvings in her own language, the odd shapes and squiggles turning into word and at the thought her heart began to pound in her chest. It was so incredible how the prospect of something literally hundreds of years old being solved seemed to be so thrilling. The only unfortunate thing was that Utena knew that she would no doubt be the last person in the universe to ever figure out something of this caliber. Yet still, the thumping in her chest did not still.

⌘ // doxiical

[doxiical-blog]

Adjusting the last strands of his belt, he sighed in preparation in departing and branching out of his district. One month. It has been a total of an entire month until he was acknowledged as a full-fledged citizen and loyal member to the Hive. Between those days, he has done nothing but take leisurely strolls and secretly plan his escape with his companions. Either way, the hunter despised the city – hated the fact he was trapped and the restriction of control. He thrived for freedom, needed to leave such a glum universe. Additionally, he wasn’t interested in the antiques and novelty of the Hive but was only reluctant in mindless wander. Now that familiar faces and friends have emerged, there was no need to put forth any other effort.

While exploring past the boundary of delta, his thoughts were empty – drawing a blank at his surroundings. Due to his hunter’s instinct, he automatically proceeded towards the mysterious, dark cave. Caves were always an interesting sight and held something hopeful within it. In his eyes, the world felt and looked bare thus far. Once he entered, a distracting vibrant hue strings his sight. A strong pigment of pink was calling out his name, an abrupt sense of curiosity flew through his system. ‘Could it be?’ Hesitant letters posed at his tongue, threatening to come out. ‘If she was here…that means…Serah…Hope…’

Before Noel was able to further speak out, the woman appeared no less than a stranger. He wasn’t mad nor minded because if Lightning was to return – what would happen? What would the consequences or solutions be? “Uh..excuse me miss. Are you lost, by chance?” A stupid question for sure. Anybody with a brain could figure out that she was exploring, likely due to the other’s genuine surprise and floating hands that relaxed against the surface of the cool stones.

The man crosses his arms, laughing to cover-up his apparent humility. “Just kidding. So, what are you doing in a place like this?”

[aquaticnut-blog-blog]

    That isn’t so bad, his reaction when she explained her reasoning. A quiet sigh of relief slipped past her lips as she relaxed a little. He didn’t mind her blabbing either which Asahina found to be a bonus and the anxiety she felt faded away rather quickly. “I bet if there’s a modeling agency, you would be.” There would have to be a place like that here, right?

     “I’m Asahina, Aoi. It’s really nice to meet you Noel!” She smiled at him an takes his hand, gently shaking it.

[doxiical-blog]

Eyes widen at the girl’s comment – he never guessed that his physical appearance was potentially a distraction. The word. ‘modeling’ didn’t strike much impact to his previous memories but he nodded nevertheless, sheepishly laughing. A hand rested upon the chill surface of the back of his neck as he began to speak, “ah, thank you miss.” He wasn’t sure what else could have been added to his statement. Though, he was tempted to exchange a few nice words himself, it was likely to come out a bit…

“Nice to meet you Asahina! If you don’t mind asking…how long have you been at the Hive?”

[robvalentines]

i couldn’t save her.

[visravana]

✠ for god’s sake /noel+bisha/

[visravana]

Little thought was invested in the idea that he disturbed her, considering she had very little at the moment. Similar to him, she also hadn’t come up with a specific direction that she would stroll down sooner or later. Today, she idealized one in which didn’t involve company though, the past few days involving plentiful interaction within the mansion she resided in. 

“There is no need for you to do that… I was planning to observe as I wandered around here.”

Clearly stating that for him, she watched him insist, attempting to hopefully win her over with his words. Peer pressure and influential streaks affected poorly on the deity, usually having her own mindset and opinions ready to either agree or object. Fortunately, she also was someone that was open minded to the voices of others’. It was utmost important for a god to let themselves be open to one and all, after all. As prior stated, with no schedule to follow along, she supposed it wouldn’t have hurt to change routes for today.

“However, I won’t decline your offer. If you insist on going together, then there is nothing wrong with that.” Beckoning targeted at her to make her move, she gradually followed beside the man, while names were being exchanged in between.

“Bishamonten- my name is Bishamonten. It’s a pleasure to meet you, Noel.” Crossing her arms as she glanced at him dubiously, she added, 

“Well, where shall we go? As I’ve said before though, I know little of what they have to offer…”

[doxiical-blog]

Noting the neutrality of displayed emotions, he was unsure whether or not he commented something wrong. At times as busy and compact as the festival, it made sense she may have grown agitated by his existence. Before he decided to completely walk away, her voice hooks his attention once more. ‘Observe?’  In one way or another, the woman’s mannerisms reminded him of how Lightning appeared to be. Now that he was examining her more, the two could be mistaken for long lost sisters. “I don’t have any ill intentions, I was just offering assistance since I thought it be beneficial in this case.”

As expected, his words flowed harsher than he intended it to be. Despite the anxiety dwelling within -- ears perked at her words. He crosses his arms, nodding. “Look, it’ll be fun, promise. I’m not all that bad, miss.” The man chuckles at the thought of envisioning him as an evil individual. Even if he tried, Noel was truly too ‘protective’ for his own good.

“Bishamonten?” ‘That’s quite the mouthful.’  Even so, there was something unique about her name, he hasn’t heard of it before but then again, the names Hope, Snow and Noel weren’t labelled as ‘common’ either. “Pleasure’s all mine, Bishamonten. Hey, uh...” It was a stupid request, but might as well ask. “Do you have a nickname, by chance? Maybe something a bit...shorter? If you don’t have one, it’s no big deal. I was just...nevermind.” Embarrassed by his abrupt commentary, the hunter shifts on his heel, beginning to follow a random path, a direction that’ll hopefully be a smooth recovery.

Turning his back from her, he continued onwards, geasurting her to come along. “Better catch up, before I’m gone.”

[robvalentines]

Right. You got it. I’ll track her down.

[doxiical-blog]

goose chase ; // black rabbit.

[highbornoflittlegarden-deactiva]

“Hmm…sector two is an industry district so there might be some nasty fumes in the air. Oh we better take the train then, its faster than walking!” Black Rabbit walked faster as to point in the direction of the train as well as to the building that was the station across the street. 

“The train is available for all the people living in the city and you don’t need money to pay for a pass or ticket. It is free, though it takes about thirty minutes to get through each sector. As there are six sectors in total, it takes three hours to go through the entire city by train, and it is a one way trip. It does not go counter clockwise, but it is the main transportation of the city besides a taxi, scooter, bicycle, car or motorcycle.” She explained in detail as the light for the street turned green, allowing the pedestrians to cross the street.

“If there are any question you need answering Noel-san, Black Rabbit will do her very best to assist you.” Her tone was utterly polite and filled with the desire to be of assistance. As someone who had been through the same situation, she found it best to have a helping hand.

[doxiical-blog]

Since it was still his first day to the Hive, he was still unfamiliar with the sectors, names and overall distinctions of the city. Although Black Rabbit claims to still be a rookie, she is clearly a bit more accustomed in comparison. “Sounds goo--” Immediately, the other races off, her sights set on boarding the train as he reluctantly trails behind.

He carefully listens to her comments and explanations, genuinely intrigued. As they take a break between their jog, he nods -- subtly signaling that he was listening and appreciating her assistance. “Great, thanks for telling me. I think that’ll come handy in the future. I still don’t really know where I’m going.” Since she was the first person he met since his arrival, Noel finds himself a bit nervous in hopes he wasn’t coming off too unapproachable. Although, assuming what she was spouting were names of vehicles, it was difficult for him to picture any of them as they were unrecognizable. “’M not sure what most of those are. But, I do know what the train is so I guess that’s fine, right?”

Noel’s attention averted as the girl begins to speed forward. A sign indicating the bus stop was nearby, a vibrant yellow-tone catching his view. “Thank you, I really appreciate it Black Rabbit. But, I think we’re easing in to the bus stop soon.”

[doxiical-blog]

salty shaking ; // closed.

[saravalt]

      In the absence of the homemaker, carrying out the necessary errands had become a responsibility that had been willingly taken up. While certainly not suited for tasks of this nature, without experience never would the solider become accustomed to modern day habits that even a child could properly do. Such was the purpose for her stationary position before the proprietor of fruits, cerulean hues surveying the spread as mind attempted to place a name to each of the produce. As a good deal of them no longer existed in her world, it was rather time consuming and had caused expression to appear distinctly focused, the very reason for the misplaced faith that the stranger would have in her.

      ❝Is this place not a good shop? It’s my first time shopping for fruit so I simply picked the first store I could find. Although ..❞ Gaze shifted towards the bruised items, a dubious lift of a brow conveying that the choice was being second-guessed. ❝You .. might be on to something. Still, you should pay for that apple. Just because it wasn’t what you were looking for doesn’t mean you should mistreat someone’s merchandise. Once you do that, I’ll help find a better shop for the both of us.❞ Leaving little room for argument, the careless handling of the apple would not go without reimbursement.

[doxiical-blog]

At first, he was unsure if he scared the woman off with his attitude on fruits. He didn't have much knowledge upon them besides his adventures from the beginning of his journey at the Hive. To his surprise, the stranger stayed nearby, exceptionally interested between their discussion and his silly inquiries. “It was just a thought. I’m not really familiar with ‘food’ stuff anyways. I usually just eat whatever I find in the wilderness.” And it was true. Throughout a grand portion of his time was spent through venturing in the wild and protecting residents from vicious monsters. A brief sigh pasts his lips as he gingerly places the apple back into its previous position. “I didn’t eat it or anything, so would you be mad if I put it back?”

Per usual, balancing between social interactions were generally uncomfortable since Noel wasn't as keen or familiar with casual mannerisms. Nevertheless, the other didn’t show any signs of discomfort -- instead she even offers to find a different shop. Both useful and beneficial. The hunter laughs, pointing towards the entrance of the market. “Good idea! I mean, the Hive is a pretty big place, huh? There’s no harm in checking out the other places, anyways. C’mon, it’ll be quick and we could get a great deal on some better fruits.” A disgusted draws on his feature as he side eyes towards the display of multiple batches of apples, bananas and watermelons. Before continuing any further, he walks out of the market gesturing the girl to follow his lead.

[bravexcalibur]

the name’s machina chicken mcnuggets

[doxiical-blog]

And I’m Swaggy Daddy Noel.

[kousuisetsu]

moirasburton’s color meme: ↪ serah/noel + 1700s (pale blues & pale pinks);

requested by epherians.

[doxiical-blog]

overdue ; // closed.

[praefecusarchive-blog1]

“It will take some time to adjust to,” Hope said. Not just for Noel, but for himself as well. Unfortunately, having to adjust to the city meant that going back to their world wasn’t a near occurrence. Being here while their world remained in a state of havoc…the thought never left his head, whether it occupied most of his mind or remained a concern that came and went. Hope wondered if the Noel standing in front of him knew of what happened or if the brunet hailed from a time different than his own. “Serah’s also in the city. Have you met with her?”

[doxiical-blog]

Sincerely, he was unsure what to make of the situation presented to him. In retrospect it might have seemed like a gift to see an ally with him (which it is, no doubt). In Noel’s own way, he wished Hope was safe and living blissfully at home rather than in a crummy, congested location. Either way, time was ticking quickly and there must have been some sort of craziness back at their hometown(s).

Playfully punting the director’s shoulder, he laughed lightheartedly. “Hey man. Don’t worry about it, alright? We’re going to get through this mess together and find everyone, I promise!” An unlikely promise, but the grin never vanished from his face -- he was hopeful. Though, his ears perked at the familiar name recognition. ‘Serah’s here, too?’

“Serah? Y’mean our Serah? Well, I haven’t met with her or even seen her at all. Is she here? Where did y’last see her? Woah, woah. Are you...positive you saw her? I mean, there’s tons of people here y’know.”

[aquaticnut-blog-blog]

     Oh man, was she wrong? Rubbing the back of her neck, Asahina gave him a sheepish smile. This isn’t the first and no doubt the last time that she will think someone is something and be wrong about it. It’s just a little embarrassing because she worried about making them feel uncomfortable.

    “I’m sorry. You just look really cool with your clothing style, it’s unique and, well, you look really handsome too!” She grinned at him. The swimmer really hopes the last part wouldn’t make him feel awkward. That would only make her feel worse and start to wonder if keeping her mouth shut would be a wise move.

[doxiical-blog]

The abrupt compliments from the other resulted in a flustered expression. It was kind that somebody thought of him so highly but a bit embarrassing. Instead, he laughed it off -- offering a warm smile. “Ah, thank you, really! Seriously, don’t worry about it. Sort of wish I was famous, now.”

Noting the quietness from the stranger, he offers a friendly handshake. “Name’s Noel Kreiss, by the way. May I ask what your name is, miss?”

[astmrec-deactivated20190606]

Hive Five’s Burgers; //closed

The Hive Five’s Burger Joint? Now serving triple decker classics, or so the window advertisement says. Well, if anything it sounded better then tofu burger’s at the other joint. He sighed, stepping into the establishment and peering around before taking his time walkin towards the register.

His wooden lance dragged along the floor behind him as he looked at the girl standing behind the register, “Yeah..I’ll have what the window said” he stated, dropping the correct amount of money and moving along, not even listening to the girl at the counter yelling ‘it’ll be done in a few minutes!’

Foster, hoenstly did not care. It could be done in a year for all he cared and it probably would still be mediocre at best. Yet, just as Foster was allowing himself to get comfortable within a booth a call of his order rang out and he sprung to his feet as if going into battle. Yes, ah, a battle for his stomach to calm the fuck down. He quickly made his way to register, reaching for the bag the girl was holding just to be intercepted by another hand. This hand, however taking ahold of his own.

“Oh hell you, you twat, I don’t think so!” he grumbled, raising his eyebrows at the individual who was currently holding his hand. He narrowed his eyes at the taller lad, shaking his head as he muttered, “If this is your way of hitting on me, it isn’t gonna work, love. Food comes before men..and even women for that matter!” He brashly pulled his hand out from the other’s grasp, making a small 'hmph’ noise as he grabbed the bag, pulling it very dramatically away, and, just so happening to manage hitting the other in the face. “I am so not fucking sorry!” He stated.

[doxiical-blog]

Today was one a continual uneventful day that occurred in Noel’s life. Much was occurring between sectors and since his arrival, he’s done absolutely nothing but sit around and wonder about ‘home’, friends and the desire to understand his calling to the Hive. On his infamous casual stroll, neon pigments captured his attention -- intensely zoomed photographs of burgers feeling a powerful craving wash over him.

And without a word, the hunter enters the food-joint ; aromas of fresh french fries as well as general -- meat filled the atmosphere. Here and there in the city, he would drop by and settle for a quick drink of coffee but, it was honestly his first time being at a place like this. ;

On the other hand, the line didn’t seem too long as he continued to follow the remaining people that were trailing behind. Observing peculiarly, the young gentleman had tasseled raven locks, and seemed like he was in quite a hurry to get his order completed and start eating right away. Interestingly enough, their fashion tastes were complete opposites while Noel was decked in his usual attire. It was a bit intimidating but the moment between them was over -- as the stranger waited for his pick up.Once it was his turn, he leans on the counter, pointing at the opaque sign outside the store. “I’ll take whatever picture was shown outside, please.” After all, these advertisements did seem to work as he was clearly attracted to it.

Quietly examining the others following the clear routine of things, a closed, wrinkled paper bag appeared on the table which by the way, was near to him. Without hesitation, the man took a quick glance before snagging the bag but surprisingly enough, another hand was already reaching towards it. “Huh, what? Are you -- ?”

Before any further conversation could have been built, a stinging collision met with his cheek, a bewildered expression crisply written on his features. This strange man just punched him -- out of the blue? Noting the stranger’s grip on the burger bag, he straightens himself up. “Well gee, thanks for -- that. Damn, I haven’t been in a fight in that long.” A small smirk curves his lips as he crosses his arms, glaring at the man. “Y’know, you could’ve just asked if I grabbed the wrong bag. Hey man, why don’t you get that temper of yours a fixing?”

[robvalentines]

I’m going to make it happen.

[doxiical-blog]

overdue ; // closed.

[praefecusarchive-blog1]

The sudden hand on his shoulder took him by surprise and that surprise turned greater when he realized the one behind the action was Serah’s time travelling companion. The number of familiar faces Hope encountered since his arrival was slowly growing and while he was grateful he needn’t go through this alone, he didn’t know that if all of them being in this city was a good thing per se. The city wasn’t exactly paradise.

That aside, what did he mean by ‘took you long enough’? “I never realized you were here, Noel. How long have you been in the city?”

[doxiical-blog]

Equally exchanging a moment of their genuine surprise towards one another, a sense of relief covered over the man from reassurance that the person who was stranded here was a solid acquaintance and Serah’s trusted friend. Either way, a friend of Serah’s was an ally nevertheless. Some time has passed since they both met together but despite so, Hope always kept his composure -- quite admirable in retrospect.

“How long?” Chuckling at the other’s response, he shrugged, “to be honest, not too long but it felt like I’ve been trapped in this hell forever.”

[visravana]

✠ for god’s sake /noel+bisha/

[visravana]

Briefly as he occupied himself to gain posture at her presence, she took that quick moment to observe from head to toe. His attire, nonetheless, was quite peculiar. Somewhat outdated, though it was one in which she had never seen before. Rather unique, if she put it simply, but she supposed he had originated from another planet and time. Such perks were frequent around here, including herself- therefore she didn’t judge wholly. When asked whether she was an employee, however, lilac optics fluttered lightly until shaking her head.

“My apologizes, but I am not. I’m rather as clueless as you are as of where or what I should do now.” 

Reasons of why she came here was out of inquisitive nature, not having much planned other than taking a quick glance before her departure. However, she had hoped that there would be cherry blossoms here to commemorate a fellow family member. It was why she hadn’t left so soon, the goddess hadn’t given up in finding one just yet. 

Of course, she wasn’t inconsiderate to leave him be with an unsatisfied answer. Which was why she intended to suggest a different option.

“If you are in need of an escort, I would not mind bringing someone to accompany you around the festival.”

[doxiical-blog]

A silent moment fell between the two as curious glances were being exchanged. Usually between fairly new interactions, the conversation grew one-sided focusing upon the other party rather than having it directed towards himself. In this moment, discomfort built upon him as he began speaking to the woman. Through his silent judgement, she appeared reserved and calm  despite being in such a crowded environment where there were only sounds of whistles and an infinite loop of chatter. Either way, he hoped that their interaction wouldn't become awkward especially on such a momentous occasion. “That so?” It was difficult to mask the genuine astonishment that escaped from his tone. “Hmm.”

Apprehension crossed his features as now he was unsure how to assist her in this point in time. Since he was the one that approached her first and (embarrassingly) mistaken her as an employee, it was only justified to attempt to search for a solution for their conflicts. 

“Hey, we could try to come up with something and maybe work it out together?”

Whilst listening to her proposal, he nods leaning closer to hear her words. A bit confused, he crossed his arms - frowning. “Woah, woah! That’s not fair, aren't you a bit lost too? Unless you’d prefer the formal ‘tourist’ then that’s cool. I’ll head with you I mean...what if you get lost right? Y’know what they say, ‘two heads are better than one.’” With a lopsided grin, the hunter gestures to her; “say, before we go off - may I ask what your name is, I’m Noel in case y’were wonderin’.”