( * lost in thoughts. )

[muroyi-blog]

( lissy. )

♚-; Huffing, she crosses her arms and turns away from the emperor. “Hmph, perhaps, but I’d rather be considered beautiful and elegant than adorable. Such an image is simply not fitting for a Duchess! Though I hold not a candle to you nor Her Majesty Cordelia, there are still a few people who look up to me, and I’d like to be someone they can look up to with pride.” Duchess… That title had meant everything to her. It was how her persona came to be, what she crafted it around. Small talk and flattery, it was how she trained herself to be, and while it pleased most nobles, it seemed to be somewhat of a hindrance to Crimson. How was she to act if not her usual self though? Even she did not know, for that was something she had never even thought of being a possibility.

♚-; “To smile and laugh while committing murder… Surely that is not what the people want to see… Besides, it gets my dresses all torn up and ruined.” She wouldn’t say it aloud, for she thought that talks of her being a ‘monster’ and needing to be ‘brought down’ had already reached the emperor’s ears, and so she simply ended it as a matter of her attire getting ruined.

♚-; The real Lissandra, huh? But who was the real Lissandra? Wasn’t this her? Or had she lied for so long that she tricked herself into believing this masquerade was who she truly was. “It’s been quite a while since I have laughed so hard… It will be interesting to see you attempt to do so, Your Majesty,” she says with a smile. At the mention of her crying though, she lets out a brief laugh–however it was her usual cordial and gentle one, not the one Crimson wanted to hear out of her. “Me, crying? Oh dear, the last time that happened, they had to repair my entire bedroom and then some, for I had kicked a hole in a wall with my heel… Ask Zia, I’m sure he’d be delighted to tell you stories about me, though if he doesn’t watch his tongue, he may just lose it.~” Giggling to herself, she finally remembers who she’s in the presence in and coughs into her hand, as if that would make the words she said disappear. “I-I mean, um, I just hope he doesn’t say too many bad things about me… We’ve been together for so long, I know he’s just dying to share some of the… less-than-refined acts I’ve done…”

♚-; Having finally gotten used to the emperor’s playful nature, she does no more than look him in the eye and give him a slight glare; all in good nature, of course. “I’ve no desire to meet anyone. I’m perfectly fine with the way I am, but if you want to try and weasel some other emotion out of me, so be it,” she says, waving her arm dismissively as she closes her eyes.

♚-; “I have fun in many ways, just not the way you deem to be fun. I have always enjoyed being etiquette, and so to practice doing such would be what I suppose you would deem ‘fun’, to me. Is that not enough?” Of course he would compare her to Minh though… But no matter how hard she tried, she would never, and could never, reach that level of… carefree childishness.

♚-; “Is that so? Then how do you view me, Your Majesty? And I am not so fragile that your words could hurt me! …Perhaps they might sting a bit in the moment, given what you say–but nothing I can’t come back from!” As he ruffles her hair though, she growls a bit before fixing it back in place. Did he mean to say that he saw her as a child? Was that it? Was she just a mere child in his eyes?

♚-; Taking off her heels, she sighed. “No, this was further than needed, Your Majesty. Though I must say, I didn’t imagine walking into the royal palace practically barefoot… I hope you’ll forgive me.” She was sure Minh had done this millions of times, but as stated before, it was simply in her nature to act like so.

"You're way prettier than Cordelia." The words leave his lips in a flat monotone, his eyes missing their usual gleam of joy or mischievous intent. Cordelia always sucked the life out of him, even when she was just a passing mention. "I don't think you should make yourself into someone that only exists to please others. That's not anyone I'd look up to, I mean."

"Oho, I hate it when I get dirty myself." He nods. He hated when his beautiful clothes got ruined, it made him even more violent on the battlefield when that happened. "Like I said, don't care what people want to see, only care about what I want to do."

Oh. How delightful. The more someone said it wasn't possible, the more Crimson just had to do it. "I want to see my darling Lissy so happy tears come from her eyes!" And he listens to her go on about her latest breakdown. When she regrets her words, he laughs bright and loud. Ah, if only she was always as honest as she had been merely seconds ago. "Don't hold back, dear. Lucky boy that Zia is, to get to see you at your truest form." He pauses and frowns, "Uh, what exactly made you have such a tantrum, though?"

As cold and clear cut as always. Sheesh, she reminded him of a certain white-haired Commander. Give a guy a little room to try, why don't you? These cool types and their acts. Goodness. "I will try and I will succeed, just watch me."

"People have different ideas of fun, yeah, but everyone should try new things and be more open." Crimson shrugs his shoulders. Lissandra would be tough to break, but he wouldn't quit. "If you don't like comparing yourself to Minh, then imagine being like Basil. He's polite, isn't he? But he's honest and has fun. That's good." It's what any parent would want for their kids. He's so proud! "... I realize I have no life aside from my children, don't bother pointing it out."

How did he view her exactly? He purses his lips in thought for a moment before answering, "I see you as a marble statue, I guess? Pretty to look at, but boring entirely. People come near and far to see, appreciate the hard work, but forget they ever saw it soon after. They try so hard to figure out the meaning behind that statue..." He meets her eyes, "But there's nothing inside it, is there?" And then he directs his gaze away again, "... Does that make sense?"

"I don't care about stuff like that, no pressure. Where would you like to have tea today, Duchess? Once we decide, I'll call for someone to help with your shoe dilemma."

[muroyi-blog]

( draze. )

“I’m always up for a fight, just hit me up when you’re free.” Oh how he adored the thrill of battle, feeling the adrenaline rush through him, burning inside of his veins. He got a rush out of it like nothing else.

Acnologia snarled at the other Emperor, tail thrashing about. The dragon wondered how on earth this fool became the Emperor of Melantia, smoke escaping his maws.  He didn’t seem impressed as the kanji for his species appeared, before becoming the likeness of one. A simple snort was his only response. 

Meanwhile Draze looked mildly impressed, eyeing the dragon of light in the other’s hand. “It is quite nice. Wish I could do that.” he answered. He admittedly wasn’t very creative with his powers, or rather, wasn’t the artistic sort at all. But he could always admire this sort of then.

“Sadly my fire’s only good for burning stuff.”

“Will do, then. Are you a fan of double battles? I can do one on one, but my child Minh likes to join whenever he can.” He worked at his best when Minh was his teammate. The two had a habit of being delightfully extra with their performances, making the deaths of many into a show to be applauded, equipped with music and actors.

Crimson smiles, “It’s all I’m good for.” His only other power was manipulating sound, and that didn’t really have much offensive ability. Summoning through words, however, could be used that way if need be. Though he preferred singing to fighting any day. “Fire can be used for more than burning, be it bodies or wood.”

He continues stroking the white dragon’s head, “Fire is passionate, beautiful, unrelenting. Many performers use fire to entertain. Fire breathers, for instance. Have you breathed fire before? Even if you haven’t, you can still entertain with it.”

He grins playfully, “If you get more creative, you could certainly steal even more hearts.”

[muroyi-blog]

Side-eyeing Minh’s competition. “If my baby gets hurt, I’ll attack fully -- even at the cost of another war.”

[muroyi-blog]

( lissy. )

♚-; “I-I wasn’t being loud!” Though she says this, she quiets down her voice to a whisper anyway, though she still attempts to shout at the emperor. Rolling her eyes, she glares at the other slightly. “Must you drawl out your words like that, Your Majesty?! And enough with calling me Lissy!” Though she is very insistent on him–and everyone else who uses that nickname on her, she secretly enjoys it. It’s much less formal than her full name… but no, she would never admit to such a thing; she had an image to keep up after all!

♚-; “Wh–why is that the first thing you bring up Your Majesty?!” It was always a shameful time when Crimson saw her on the battlefield… Such a thing hadn’t happened in a long time, but she tended to get… overzealous and sadistic when fighting. It was one of the reasons she, and many others, considered herself a monster. “Is my current state truly so despicable that you wish to change me? What is there that I must work on?” She wanted to be the best she could be, and though she already thought herself on the brink of such a thing, if her emperor wanted something to be changed about her, then so be it…

♚-; “Your Majesty!” Slapping his chest, her face is obviously flushed, and she glares at him angrily, though it is much less frightening when her cheeks are tinged red and she looks like she wants to hide under a blanket. “I-I won’t make any funny faces! I’ll simply admire the empire is all! I’m not a child!” The familiarity yet superior position of Crimson’s always threw Lissandra off… How could she possibly act like her usual self when her emperor was… like this?

♚-; “You may think it funny, but I would appreciate not being mocked like so, Your Majesty… To tell a woman to her face that she is not your type though… Really, you must be more gentle with your words; if you were anyone else, I would’ve punched you and been done with it already.” Perhaps she shouldn’t have said that, but considering how her emperor acted, she doubted he would punish her in anyway for saying such a thing.

“I must, it gives effect to it. I shall never stop calling you as such, my dearest Lissy. It’s rather adorable and denotes we’re close, don’t you agree?” Although, if she were to ever get genuinely upset with him, he’d most certainly cease the very second she asked. But so far the two of them had never been genuinely angry with one another.

“Fufu, does that embarrass you? Your bloodlust is in good place, I get excited myself too.” He had a habit of grinning even when he was covered in blood or killing someone up close, looking as if he was always having a good time -- which he was. For some reason, fighting was a most splendid occasion for him, as much as he tried to avoid a war between Lucae and Melantia.

“Currently? You’re perfect. I don’t find you despicable. Just missing something. Something that brightens you up. Being perfectly imperfect is wonderful too, you know. You ought to try it.” Crimson hums, flashing her a gentle smile. “Personally, I want to see the real Lissandra someday and then some. I want to see her when she messes up and when she cries, when she smiles with the full force of her being and when she laughs like she won’t laugh harder ever again in her life.”

He pauses and then looks down at her again, winking playfully. “Don’t you want to meet that girl inside you too?”

Everyone’s pure self, from their inner child to their fault ridden adult. He wanted to see within everyone he met.

“Oho... Is that so? You should have fun, don’t hold yourself back. Like Minh.” Despite Minh being nearly an adult, he had no qualms about being himself (thank god) and lived like he was still full of childish wonder and life.

As she scolds him for being so blunt, he arrives at the palace gates and sets her down carefully, making noises to assure her that he was listening. “Oh, I’d never be so direct to anyone else. I don’t view you the same as other ladies. And no, I’m not saying I don’t see you as a woman, before you yell at me again.” He reaches out to ruffle her hair, laughing. “Anyway, I’d never dream of hurting you deeply, so I would never toy with your delicate maiden heart. Now, shall we go inside or would you like me to carry you further in?”

[muroyi-blog]

( lissy. )

♚-; “Y-Your Highness, this is very unfitting behavior! P-Please refrain from doing it anymore–Your Highness, are you even listening to me?!” She tries to slink away from him, but with Lissandra in his arms she’s captive to whatever he desires to throw her way. “Your Majesty!” she whines, though her pleas fall on deaf ears.

♚-; “In… In your red? What exactly is your ‘red’, Your Majesty? My heels are red and part of my dress is red as well, wouldn’t any more red be overbearing?” Completely confused as to what Crimson meant, she merely tilted her head to the side, furrowing her eyebrows to show just how confused he had gotten her.

♚-; “I… see.” Well, he was Emperor, and though Lissandra was no Empress it’s not like she didn’t get her fair share of people kissing up to her in hopes of leeching off her status; though of course, she thought herself above them all and was frankly, disgusted with them, so they were always sent out of the castle, usually while hurling insults her way.

♚-; He had heard her?! Even after she went to the trouble of whispering to herself?! Perhaps that was to be expected, but it still took her by surprise… Jumping a bit, she gulps, looking off to the side as she can’t believe Crimson had caught her complimenting him. “Y-Yes, I suppose so… I would most certainly choose you as Emperor though, no matter who else was up for the role. You were the one that changed Melantia and brought your ‘color’ to our kingdom. Those were things I believe only you could have done, and it is for that reason that I follow you, Your Highness.” Modest as well, huh… Well, wasn’t he just the full package. “Ah–I’ve been meaning to, but I’ve been quite busy these past few weeks… A citizen from Elysium visited Clavain not too long ago though, and she offered to show me around, so perhaps I will take her up on her offer when I am able to…”

♚-; Did he just–did he just say she wasn’t his type? At all? Don’t get her wrong, Lissandra had no romantic feelings for the Emperor, but to be told that straight to her face… Frankly, she felt insulted and offended. “Gee, thanks Your Majesty, that really makes me feel a whole lot better,” she says monotonously.

"So loud, my eardrums may begin to bleed... What will I do if I can't hear, my dear? My powers revolve around sound, you know that." It's more whining in tone than scolding, especially the way he pouts as he says it. "But I suppose if it's you I won't mind, because I love you sooooooo muuuuuch, Lissyyyyyyy." He never learns, despite all her shouting.

Crimson hums in reply to her questions, amused by her nativity. "It's an expression. It means I want to change you, to see you be changed by my hands. You do look splendid in red, though, I assure you. Even when it's the blood of others." She was right in the sense of fashion, though. Red looked best as an accent colour considering they both already had red eyes beneath black hair.

"You make my heart race, feel free to rest your head upon my chest and hear so." He teases, though he is thankful for her kind words. He would never choose himself, in fact right now if he could abandon it all he would without hesitation. But that simply wasn't an option considering the circumstances. "Hmmm... I'll make you less busy then. Official business with me trumps all, right? I'll take you. Therefore, you can go as soon as possible and I can see the funny faces you make in awe of things." Well, he had to visit the rulers of Elysium again anyway, so it worked out well regardless.

"That is to say, I'm joking. On being with you the entire time, at least. I'll leave you be while I do other things. But this way, it's convenient for us both, right?" Maybe he'd even bring Minh and Basil along.

"Ohooo? Don't make such a face, my darling. We're not in love, and I'm not saying you aren't attractive, because believe me you are very much so. I simply mean to say that there is no reason to lie and give false flattery. Unless you want me to shower you in compliments and gifts and even court you for the fun of it, then I shall. It'd be rather hilarious to try and date you. In a good way." Not that Minh or Basil would ever let it happen with how much they needed his attention, but it was a joke in all it's entirety anyway.

[muroyi-blog]

( draze. )

“I see.” he answered, flames slowly dying down, though their warm stayed around. Not built for fighting he says, but there’s a part of him that doesn’t truly believe his words. Surely he could do something. He didn’t become Emperor for nothing.

“I’m sure they’re not useless. Maybe not practical but everything’s got a use. Anything’s a weapon if you polish it enough.” He knew that from experience. He didn’t get where he was without adapting and sharping his skills.

The second ‘lizard’ was said by the Melentian Emperor, Acnologia roared, obsidian claws tearing through the earth underneath, the bright orange and red of flames able to be seen through bared fangs. Draze could understand the obscurities the dragon was growling out, calling Crimson quite foul names. 

“He’s not quite happy with being called lizard. I’ll be a bit careful, I’m not sure I could get him off of you if he wanted to attack.” he warned, a hand slithering down and rested on the reptile’s head, trying to soothe the savage beast. The dragon only responded by flapping his large wings, looking away.

“True, true. We should spar sometime, friendly of course. It’d be easier to demonstrate rather than explain.” How does he begin to explain that he fights by singing, bringing his words to life and even teaming up with his beloved son Minh to put on a full course deadly show of theatrics? It was much easier done than said.

Crimson, while unable to understand a word the dragon said, simply threw his head back and laughed, clutching his stomach in delight. Oh, he always loved messing with the stiff types. Even if it was a dragon and not a person.

“Really now?” He says as his laughter dies down, leaving only a grin behind. “Oh, I have an idea! How does this work? Dragon!”

And just like before, the kanji for dragon forms in the air, shifting and twisting until it explodes into white light, dying away and leaving a pure white dragon with pink tinged scales behind a still grinning Crimson. “A friend! Quite nice, don’t you think?” He holds out his hand, and the creature obediently bows it’s head, nuzzling against the palm of the Emperor’s hand.

[muroyi-blog]

( draze. )

So far, Crimson seemed… alright. Of course, he doubted that he would show his true colors so soon. That would be foolish, and Draze didn’t think for a second that Crimson was one. He would have been disposed of by now, most likely by Cordelia.

Part of him is surprised that she hadn’t yet, or maybe she was just biding her time. Or, he wasn’t going to fall for her tricks. Either way, things were going well.

Acnologia’s golden eyes (so similar to the Emperor beside him) narrowed, midnight scales gleaming in the low light, revealing shadowy purple undertones. Clearly he wasn’t trusted. 

Draze smiled and waved it off, not looking for gifts. That wasn’t what he came for. “Don’t got to get me anything. Sadly the one thing I can give you right now would be some fire.” he replied, as flames ignited over him, vivid reds creating a brilliant aura around him.

“Though I doubt you’re looking for a living campfire huh?”

“Ohhh. Most of my people like gifts.” He shrugs, flowers and gems falling from his fingertips, slowly dissolving into black smoke. It was more like that was the only way he could get their attention. Whatever he had to do.

“Fire is useful.” Crimson hums, impressed -- and it shows upon his features. “I don’t have any offensive skills like that. Actually, I’m not built for fighting at all. But I make it work.”

He raises a hand to point at Draze, “I’d like it if I had a skill like yours. But only as an addition to my pre-existing powers. I rather like my abilities, as useless as they may be.”

And then he can’t help but laugh, “Although, I won’t reject your campfire offer if you mean s’mores are included! Those are the best~!” Oh. Oops. Damn, and he’d tried so hard to be serious and clear cut to look good in front of the other! “Ohhh, boooooo! Well, no point in playing mature now. Hey~ Can I ask about your lizard friend there?”

[muroyi-blog]

( lissy. )

♚-; “First you insult me then you compliment me?! B-But Your Majesty please refrain from calling me cute! Quite frankly it’s embarrassing…!” To be called cute by her Emperor… She was only thankful for the position now, as she prayed it would keep the red tinge on her cheeks hidden from the other’s point of view.

♚-; His words irked her, for she did not think being cordial was ‘boring’. What was wrong with being polite? It was simply how she acted. “Well then, I apologize for being a ‘static image’, but this is who I am Your Majesty… I cannot change my personality so quickly.” Not when she had spent years building this one up.

♚-; She felt like his words were aimed at her, but she said nothing of it. A brief laugh is given before she speaks, “That way of thinking… It’s no wonder you’ve gained the love and trust of our citizens; changed Melantia by the better… You are a gifted Emperor, Your Majesty; we are blessed to have you lead our kingdom.” Perhaps she hadn’t given him enough credit; there was much she could learn from him, but was that truly what she wanted? To be a leader?

♚-; Squealing a bit at the sudden shift, she gazes at him as he speaks, a small smile forming on her face. “And I suppose you are one such man; the selfless one who creates and shapes,” she mutters under her breath, for she would rather be caught dead than caught sincerely complimenting Crimson, harsh as it sounded.

♚-; Rolling her eyes at his play on words, she immediately becomes flustered again. “Your Majesty, that kind of talk is highly inappropriate!” She shouts, giving him a slight slap on the chest

“Haha! It’s how I keep people hooked. Don’t you know that game of cat and mouse? Reel ‘em in just enough but never let them get it completely?” Crimson laughs before pressing his cheek to Lissandra’s, cooing adoringly just to piss her off. “But you’re sooooo cuuuuute to meeeee! It’s only embarrassing if you never hear it, so I will simply say it so much you eventually brush it off!”

He didn’t think being polite was bad or anything. Politeness and respect were musts! But when someone is just... emptily polite and only concerned about their image and job, wasn’t that just dreadful? People should be more interesting than that. “Oh, don’t get me wrong. I adore you, Lissy. But I’d love to dye you in all shades of colours. You’d look good in my red.”

“Why thank you. It’s nice to be thanked by a noble. They rather despise me unless it’s women looking for some momentary fun.” Which he wouldn’t exactly deny he partook in, but he preferred commoners -- they were more honest and sweet, easier to be with for longer. He was still friends with some of his past relationships.

“I wouldn’t say I’m completely selfless. I’m not an ideal Emperor or one I’d choose myself actually. But! The lesser of two evils, no?” Better him ruling Melantia than Cordelia was what he was trying to say. “You... have you ever been to Elysium? They’re definitely the ideal.”

Awww, what a pity. Back to being scolded. He rather liked Lissandra when she was gentle with him... It was a nice change. “I’m joking, don’t get so worked up, Lissy. I like strict and to the point women who give you a hard time pursuing them... or adorable and kind that try really hard ones. You’re not any of those.” Men were also an option, but he did prefer women.

[muroyi-blog]

( draze. )

@muroyi

There was a certain electricity running through his bones as the Emperor of Lucae made his way to the border of the rival empire of Melentia. A meeting between the other Emperor was made, as they had yet to meet one another.

And Draze would be lying if he wasn’t partially excited to meet his Melentian counterpart. A man by the name of Crimson Redd. He half wondered if his hair was red as well, at least for the sake of irony.

He didn’t go alone. Acnologia wouldn’t let him; the black dragon insisted on going with him, as he didn’t trust the other one bit. Not that Draze blamed him, or minded the dragon’s company but, he would have liked a bit more faith.

As he approached the border, he saw the man he had been expecting. Acnologia stayed close, both of their eyes lock onto the other Emperor.

“Crimson, I take it. About time we meet. Heard so much about you.”

If Draze was excited, then Crimson was ten, no, a hundred times more ecstatic. Though only a year apart in age, his rival Emperor was known for the respect he garnered from his militia and people alike with his mature yet warm image.

Crimson was the stark opposite, just like black against white. He was loud and friendly, teasing and pushy. While he could hold himself to a higher standard if the situation required it, it was all a waste of energy he could be expending on more fun tasks (like bothering Delilah or playing games with Minh). Sadly, because of that, he wasn’t exactly well-liked by other nobles.

Thus, he admired Draze for being able to juggle being friendly and mature at once. It made tons of people adore him, did it not? Most people he was surrounded by were sick of Crimson themselves... A tragedy for someone who lived on attention like he did. Though was that was really the ideal image... for himself at least? A regal Crimson just didn’t fit, did it?

He had to wonder what Lucae was like now, from a personal standpoint. Both Emperor and Empress were just as perfect as follows with the kingdom of White’s ideals. Although, perfection is just a mask for darkness more often than not.

The light of White could rid darkness, whereas the shadows of Black allowed light to thrive and illuminate the world. Crimson had always figured the two kingdoms were a lot like that. Not so simple as Good or Bad, but merely two weights on a gray scale that kept the world even. Where light existed, shadow was there. Lucae and Melantia. And then there was the world that let them form and coexist together. Elysium.

Yanked out his distant thoughts abruptly, like the way Alice tumbles into Wonderland, Crimson snaps his gaze from the sky to ahead of him, smiling politely and bowing with a hand to his heart just slight in greeting.

“Yes, Crimson indeed! I, likewise, have heard quite a deal about you.” His eyes flick away from the fellow Emperor to the beast, trying to withhold a grin. If his counterpart was so cool... he had to act cool too...! Ah, but he really wanted to see that dragon up close. What a pity.

“I’d give you flowers,” And the word forms in the air, lines slowly and beautifully shifting into shape, dropping roses into an outstretched hand. “or gems,” And it forms again, though this time rough and stiff as it shapes into crystals of varying colours, falling into the other held out hand. “but I have no idea as to what you like.”

[birillia]

tyrant

[muroyi-blog]

( yang. )

@muroyi

The day when he was demoted, was the day he had seen Spadia’s grounds for the last time. That is what he thought. Only now he could see how mistaken he was.

His firm footsteps and clicking of his boots echoed through the tall but relatively narrow corridor of the Emperor’s castle. Nobles. Nobles everywhere. Is that kind of queue? Is that just a random crowd? One thing was sure - there was a lot of them in such small area. Men, women ( few seemed relatively pretty ), even few brats. As if on call, the chitter chatters ceased and the great gossiping began. ( Pawn this, ex-Commander that— Lowly people. ) Some attracted to his still fine looks tried to pull him aside with coy gazes and sweet words, yet he remained stern and wholly focused on his objective: tall, heavy doors on the very end of the corridor, a little masterpiece of Melantia’s craftsmanship behind which the very King himself awaited.

He entered ( or rather was let in ) and a simple nod towards the Emperor is all he has to give on the topic of royal Savoir Vivre. That high-ceiling office with the checkered floor ( it has always been a pain to his eye ) and pitch black walls of dark marble he knows too well. Perhaps better than the current owner. Oh, how it brings back memories. ( One of the accompanying attendants pointed him a chair but he did not take the seat. Instead, its back would make for a perfect hook for his jacket, although later. The ex-Commander shall be fine on his feet with the coat tossed across his shoulder. )

“I have received the ‘invitation’, your majesty.” His hand rummaged in the many pockets of his attire and soon pulled out a letter in a snow-white envelope with the King’s crimson seal broken. He tossed it towards the royalty, letting it slide slowly across the solid wooden desk and reach the sender. “What may be that ‘urgent matter’ mentioned there that apparently requires my assistance? I am really curious, your majesty.” Explanations. He demanded explanations and a reason he could give to his long journey all the way from Clavain.

“Ohooooooo... As serious as I’ve heard.” Crimson nods slowly, a wide smile at his lips that looked more like a cunning cat with a plan’s than something of the genuine sort. His chin rests upon the palm of one hand, propped up on his desk by the elbow while the other hand drums it’s fingers upon the wooden furniture.

By the time he came to rule, Yang had been long gone. All he’d heard were rumours here and there, though nothing concrete. And Crimson was a man who preferred the truth rather than passed around mixed and chopped up pieces that no longer made sense. However, being a Pawn now, the two rarely came into contact... but it would be unlike Crimson if he allowed status to get in the way of his curiosities.

“Were you not taught social etiquette as a Commander? Smile, smile.” His words leave his lips in a jovial tone, but not quite as energetic as he typically was with most. Didn’t the ex-Commander know about Melantia, more than Crimson himself did? Pointless to mess around, not only because of that, but because it felt like it’d go to waste on such a stiff man.

He’d work on opening him up. “So! Don’t be so cold. It gives me shivers. Is there something wrong with wanting to see you?”

The hand that had previously creating idle rhythm on the desk rises to swirl his index finger in Yang’s direction, a little pout forming at the Emperor’s lips. “You should sit, I like talking. And I have a lot of questions. Likewise, you can ask me anything you like. If you walk out on me, I’ll cry like an abandoned lover.”

[muroyi-blog]

( lissy. )

♚-; An impressive liar, this Emperor was, for even Lissandra couldn’t detect the reasoning to his kindness and almost aloof nature, though he played it off as being more carefree. What else did she expect though? If the Emperor of Melantia were so easily found out by one of his subjects, he would not be a rather worthy Emperor, harsh as it may seem.

♚-; “A se–a seal?! First Zia calls me a weasel, and then a rat and now you call me a seal?! Can’t you all at least choose better animals! And I don’t care if they think I’m cute or not–I’m not supposed to be ‘cute’ anyways! I’m supposed to be elegant and graceful, I’m supposed to have an aura of regality–all, of which, are currently being shattered by you tossing me over your shoulder like a pair of wooden planks!” The kicking and punching stopped, but she still furiously yelled at Crimson nonetheless.

♚-; “It matters not what is personal; you are my Emperor, Your Majesty, whatever you wish shall be done–and lucky you…” Pouting a bit, Lissandra crosses her arms. Crimson was the Emperor everyone loved, for he had started a new age in Melantia. He had promised the people change, and he was faithful to his words, gaining him the love and affection of many. Truthfully, the Duchess was a bit jealous… his words seemed genuine, while most of hers were nothing more than polite small talk, but was that really such a gap as to their own citizens wanting her head?

♚-; “It should be the other way around, Your Majesty! You are the Emperor, and I a mere Duchess; I should be the one spoiling you, which I would happily–I mean, which I would do if you would just set me down! And they are not cold nor distant, they are simply the truth!” As the horrendous nickname shows up again though, a groan is released from her lips. “Must you keep calling me 'Lissy’? That sounds like the name for some sort of pet! And I am nice to you! …Probably!” 'Nice’ was a poor choice of words, 'distantly respectful’ was more like it.

“Well, you’re flopping around like one! I can hardly call you an elegant creature if you act less than so, Lissy.” A rat did fit her well, though. He’d say that was the best fit for her. No offense meant, but Lissandra wasn’t exactly a woman of honesty. “Only someone who’s trying too hard to be something they’re not would deny what they are... You’re cute and that’s that.”

Lucky he was indeed! Finally his Duchess had settled down. Goodness, she should be this passionate when he wasn’t carrying her. “You should get like this more than just when you’re upset, you knooow? Otherwise you’re just a static image, a boring copy.”

Maybe, he supposed, her people would like her more if she was more genuine and passionate. But some people are born to be copies, otherwise how would people like himself stand out? Background characters, nameless NPCs... they were also useful in making him shine brighter.

“Wrong. An Emperor’s job is to make his people happy. We take up these positions of power to lead people to happy endings, not so that we can be spoiled and pampered. Anyone who believes such is a failure as a leader. A leader must carry the weight of his followers, not the other way around.”

He finally shifts Lissandra around so she’s in a bridal carry, smirking down at her once she’s settled safely in his arms. “Spoiled brats can’t lead kingdoms, it’s the selfless men who create and shape them. Those who are self-centered will only bring destruction.”

He lifts his head back up, wine red eyes sparkling with amusement. “Lissy is Lissy. Because you’re hissy all the time. If you’re nice to me, I’ll call you Lissandra -- in any kind of voice you like against your ear? Fufu, just kidding.”

[muroyi-blog]

( lissy. )

♚-; She meant no disrespect when thinking this, but when the words ‘Emperor’ or 'Empress’ or simply even 'royalty’ were brought up, the demeanor that Cordelia exuded was much more what she would have imagined than if you brought up Crimson. Royalty was royalty for a reason, were they not? Yet he consistently kept up with the commoners, talking to them, even hanging out with them–and she could’ve sworn he knew some by name. That made him all the more popular with the people, but she felt that wasn’t his intention–to gain absolute fealty, it was just who he was as a person, and that perplexed her all the more.

♚-; Lissandra would never admit it, but from time to time, his personality was a welcome change from all the formalities of meeting with nobles and such; despite that though, whenever she had the… 'pleasure’ of being with the Emperor though, at times she felt more like a babysitter than a Duchess looking after part of the kingdom in his stead. Couldn’t he save his informalities for when he played with Minh? Though she supposed if he were to suddenly be done with his seemingly carefree attitude and put on a more serious one, she would worry and, possibly even be frightened.

♚-; It all happens so quickly that all she can do is open her mouth and stutter, never getting a single sentence out. Even if he was her Emperor, this was highly inappropriate! Kicking her legs and swinging her arms against her back, she makes her protests very clear.

♚-; “Y-Your Majesty, what are you doing?! This is unbecoming behavior for someone of your station; what shall we do if someone catches you doing this?! And must you have thrown me over your shoulder?! I told you I would meet you at the castle–are you even listening Your Majesty?!” Over and over she repeats her disagreement with the situation, yet it seems her words fall on deaf ears, for he was already on his way.

♚-; “I can handle myself Your Majesty, I told you we could continue talking at the castle if you wished! Now unhand me!–P-Please…!” Nearly forgetting who she was talking to, she felt that Crimson wouldn’t mind, but to her, speaking to him like that would have hurt her immensely, for this was her Emperor she was speaking to… Even if he didn’t seem like one.

He was well aware that most of his followers found him to be like a babysitting gig rather than anything else, though he found that fact quite depressing. He’d never come off as a child in his mind. Playful? Of course. But Crimson had always displayed his skills openly, proving there was no need to worry if he could not hold his own -- because he could, and he could do it so well.

He liked joking he was being taken care of, but the Emperor always ended up spoiling others, simply making childish excuses for them to come along with him. Let them think they’re the adult, that they’re in control... no?

That was Crimson’s specialty -- fitting into every situation so he could learn everything about someone. What they thought was simply entertaining a fool of an Emperor was Crimson’s way of analyzing others, learning their weaknesses and strengths to plan his overall success.

But he did love people genuinely and want to get to know them. Knowledge was just useful, you know?

“Stay still, Lissy. I could drop you if you keep flailing like a seal. It’s not cute... to people watching at least. I think you’re at your cutest when you’re screaming at me.”

He says he’d drop her, but it’s clear he wouldn’t. He’d rather let her fall on top of him, getting most of the pain himself, than let his people be injured in any form. “Sorry, I thought a bridal carry was too personal? Anyway, it’s fine. You know I don’t care if they see me. The people love me anyway.”

“A Duchess should allow herself to be spoiled by her Emperor... It’s my job to do so. You’re hurting my poor heart with such cold, distant words.” And then a whine slips past, “You’re always so nice to Ziaaaa and Marbhhhh, be nice to me toooooo, Lissyyyy.”

[muroyi-blog]

( lissy. )

@muroyi

♚-; It wasn’t often that Lissandra visited Spadia, and it wasn’t often she ran into her Emperor either. As soon as he spotted her, he immediately ran up in order to speak with her. As Emperor, he could do whatever he wanted, but as someone who had built Melantia into the reigning empire it was today, she was always thrown off at his casual way of speaking; she simply didn’t see it fit for someone of his caliber! She was impressed by him, perhaps even amazed by him, and so to hear his way of speaking (excluding his antics with Minh) always threw her off.

♚-; As the two continued their way to the castle (for she had intended to stay the night), her foot got lodged in a crack in the sidewalk. Forcibly pulling it out, it was no struggle for her, however by doing so with such hurried strength, she broke her heel. A distressed sigh is released by her as she picks up the broken fragment of her shoe, how unfortunate… It was one of her favorites too.

♚-; Bowing towards Crimson, Lissandra begins to speak, “Embarrassingly enough, it seems I’ve broken a heel, Your Majesty… I would love to continue our chat, but I cannot walk like this, so perhaps we will have to put our conversation on hold for the while. I’ll meet you at the castle, yes?” And with that, she turns to go to one of the nearby stores in hopes of buying a new pair to walk with. It wasn’t like she was trying to get rid of Crimson–don’t get her wrong, she adored both Melantia’s Emperor and Empress, but his informality could sometimes be a little too… odd and, dare she say, overbearing, for her tastes. It was a personality type she was unused to, especially coming from someone that high of a rank.

Lissandra was not the first (and nor would she be the last) to find Crimson’s behaviour unfit (and unbecoming) of royalty. But, Crimson had come to believe, who had decided royals had to act so reserved and cold compared to commoners? What made them more than human? Besides, wasn’t it stifling to be surrounded by people with no flare nor fire, passion nor sparkle? People did not change countries with practiced beliefs and rehearsed speeches, after all. It was those who broke away from the mold that shaped history and never died -- for their names were never forgotten.

He had achieved all he had because of his personality. If he was not such a social person, so interested in speaking to anyone that caught his eye, then Melantia would still be in the way he found it when he came to rule.

Not that anyone bothered to see past an Emperor from their title, right?

Would they still idolize him if he wasn’t this interesting? Would he still catch their eyes and would his name still leave their lips in awe? No. Because then he’d be the cold and boring Emperor that was always a passing mention in history books. Then Melantia would still be on the brink of destruction.

He simply saw it his goal to change history, turn countries upside down and spark a revolution that preached love and joy, acceptance and creativity. Why be Black and White forever? Who said a chessboard couldn’t be red and purple, yellow and blue, pink and lavender!?

Melantia would never be a cold and dark kingdom of darkness as long as he was alive and kicking.

But he liked Lissandra -- quite a lot, truly. Because she was amusing. So dedicated to formalities and tradition yet so passionate herself. He wanted to dye her in bright colours. She was like a balloon to be popped. Therefore, it was splendid to spend this much time with her.

Laughing merrily, he swoops ahead in front of her, stopping her from walking any further. “You should watch where you’re going, Lissy. Not to worry, though. I can assist in a way that will not separate us. Though I could easily visit the store with you...” He steps forward and wraps his arms around the Duchess, picking her up as if to princess carry her... yet he throws her over his shoulder casually.

“I’ll carry you home~ And get a royal stylist to help you with your shoe issue.”

[muroyi-blog]

HELL FUCKIGN YEAHHHH GUESS WHO CAN POP IN FOR A BIIIIIT!!!! THIS GUY!!!!!!!

[muroyi-blog]

@devowr​

“Kaaazuuukiii! Guess who’s in charge of me today because everyone else is busy or won’t respond to my whining!” Crimson shouts merrily as he barges in without a care in the world. He’d been hoping to target Rai or Delilah today, but those weasels had successfully dodged him. Sadly for Kazuki, this meant the moment he arrived in Crimson’s scope he was his new target. What an Emperor, huh? “It’s you! Lucky you! You get to spend a day with meee!”

[muroyi-blog]

( marbh. )

     “ I may call him ‘Papa’ but I don’t see him as a true father. It’s just so if anyone is curios who I belong to it seems obvious. “ Marbh shrugs, looking at Crimson. The way the man went on about ‘family’ grinded the teens gears. “ But then again, I’ve never had a family. My parents ditched me. “ The teen looks up at the ceiling to avoid eye contact, sensing that the Emperor would make a fuss about it.

     There’s a giggle from Marbh as Crimson comments on how other people’s opinions were a waste of his time. “ I suppose you really don’t care. “ Covering their mouth with a hand, the teen grins. “ It would be super nice of you to dye part of your hair white but don’t waste such time on me. “ 

      Sliding away to twirl across the floor, the child nods to the other. “ Ohh, First Rook? So yes, all of your so called kids are higher rank. “ That just seemed wonderful for Marbh, but their brief attention span forced them to change moods towards the situation at hand. “ So…. he’s a sheltered child? He hasn’t lived!” Marbh turns and grins, the grin their way of saying ‘i hope i meet them’. 

       Marbh’s attitude drops as Crimson expressed the notion of him talking on their level could not be met. “ I could always tell you what it’s like stealing from everyone because you need to survive, only to give your food to the smaller kids who cannot fight. “ Both hands disappear into their sleeves, much like Raicleach. “ But it would be a waste of time. Mostly mine. I need to train more. “ A small excuse for not wanted to talk their sob story was one of Mabrh’s main talents. The teen avoided talking for long at all costs if possible.

      Fishing a small chess piece from their pocket, it’s obvious it’s made from iron. The piece is heavy, and worn from years of hiding in the teens possession. It’s carefully engrave with thin details, but Marbh’s used it more than once for replacing the weight of someone’s bag of gold. Eyes flicker back up to Crimson as they speak.

      “ I like everything I can steal. I don’t need any of it, or care for it once I have it, but stealing itself is a thrill. “ Marbh tilts their head, bouncing the chess piece carefully. “ Blacksmith work. I think someone told me it’s what my dad did when he lived in Melantia, but I love making small metal knickknacks and carving tiny details into them. “ Marbh shrugs, their interests were simple but tedious and require patience. 

       “ Lissandra always plays with me… “ The teen shifts, tilting their head the other way to think about Lissandra. Marbh understood when to calm down to appeal to the Duchess, and was also prone to acting like the Duchess was nothing but another person. Rank was of nothing to the duelist.

"Belong to...?" Crimson echoed, the words leaving his lips in an awkward sort of tone -- one that expressed well how confused and off-put by the words he was. "Kids don't belong to people. Kids aren't something to own and use. Kids..." Need to be loved. Need to be given a place to grow beautifully and bloom like roses. "... I just don't get it."

He raises a hand to tug at strands of his hair, eyebrows furrowed in intense concentration. "My parents didn't abandon me in the way yours did," He begins slowly, avoiding eye contact. "but they abandon me emotionally. They weren't even parents. They were just a stupid sperm donor and an idiot who gave birth to me."

He didn't understand them to this day. How they could ignore him and push him to be an Emperor for their own gain. He'd done it, though. Because, as a young and innocent child, all he had wanted was for his parents to love him, to say he had done a good job, that they were proud of him.

But they hadn't said that. They never would. "... Kids don't owe anything to parents who don't even bother to love them. What's the point of bringing someone into the world if you don't want them? Why put an innocent soul through that? Children aren't puppets to live vicariously through or punching bags to take out your anger on. In a lot of ways, kids are smarter than ugly, sinful adults."

He turns his head to look at Marbh and smiles, "That's why family is important to me. Not a fake one that abandoned me, but one that will always be with me. One that shares love and happiness together. Otherwise it's not a family. It's just a sick excuse for a group of people that sadly share genes. I turned my trauma into fuel for a dream." One that even expanded into Melantia as a whole -- make the entire kingdom a wonderful place for everyone.

Clapping his hands together, Crimson tries desperately to dispel the heavy mood. "You know, you're easy to talk frankly to! Minh's a little too... innocent and mentally fragile after what he went through. You're way more firm and cold about it." He shrugs, "I also don't like talking to people about myself. It shows weakness, an opening for people to come in so they can manipulate you to your fall. But I'll... meet you halfway or whatever."

"As for my hair, you just say the word and I'll dye it. I've always liked the colour white anyway. I think your hair is nice." He drums his fingers on the desk, laughing softly when Marbh remarks again that all his kids were of higher rank. "They didn't get those ranks because of my bias, if that's what you're thinking. Minh became First Commander because of me and Basil was designed to be a Rook actually. But, in Basil's case, the scientists keep him locked up almost all the time. It's my pushy whining that got them to let him live like a normal human being. I like sticking my nose where it doesn't belong and pissing off those fuddy-duddy elders."

While Marbh describes street life a bit, Crimson quietly listens -- though it's as quick to end as it started. "Hohhh? Done already? Hm. You're right, I don't know about that. All I've ever done is grow up too fast. You've done that, but to a more drastic extent."

He then points at the chess piece Marbh fumbles around with, genuinely curious and it shows on his face with child-like wonder. "Did you make that? Oh... Wait! What am I saying! You like to steal just because of the thrill? Can't you just find something else that's just as thrilling to replace that habit?"

And back to Lissandra they were. "Lissy plays with you? How lucky you are. She never gives me the time of day! Although, not many traditional Melantians exactly enjoy my less than royal personality."

[muroyi-blog]

tfw

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