lionhearted girl ♔

queen; swordswoman, medic, 17. a soldier of taejin's army. dlsclaimer; as this is an au-based rp blog, the portrayal of queen in this roleplay may not reflect game canon.

[queentaejin]

Falling To Pieces | Queen and Faris

[faristaejin]

"Glad to have Queen’s stamp of approval," said Faris, who chortled quietly.

Her arms swinging loosely at her side, she walked beside Queen as the two of them made their way back to camp. Casually, Faris glanced at her companion out of the side of her eye. She wasn’t that concerned; she knew Queen was as strong as they come. 

As they reached the edge of camp, Faris’s mood darkened again. All around them were injured evacuees and soldiers. A determined look on her face, the former pirate turned to the medic at her side. 

"So where are ye headed? Maybe I can lend you a hand," characteristically, she broke the tension by laughing a little, "menial grunt work is all m’really good for in these situations." 

Her fingers fiddled with the sword and tried not to feel inadequate. She found that she had to remind herself of the speech she gave Queen. All soldiers had their strengths and hers was on the battlefield. Cleaning up the mess that followed… Well that was something for Queen and her peers to worry about. 

Doesn’t mean I can’t help however I can, Faris thought, squaring her shoulders a little as she did so. 

[queentaejin]

As the pair re-entered the camp, Queen's face fell when she saw all of the casualties from the recent incident, injured villagers and exhausted soldiers alike. It would be a long couple days ahead of her and the medical team as they treated each person, but with newfound confidence she realised that this was why she was here.

In stead of those whom she was unable to save, Queen would go on to help many other people and continue serving the army in that way. As Faris addressed her, she turned to the young soldier. Her willingness to help in whatever way she could, even that which was out of her expertise was amazing, and Queen wished she could model herself in the same way.

"Faris, do you not realise your skills extend beyond fighting and battle?" she asked. "Your empathy and your optimism, they are important traits, especially in a situation such as this."

Traits which I do not possess... Queen thought quietly to herself. After receiving an update on the situation from Serah, she gathered her medical supplies and walked with Faris for a little while before continuing.

"In light of the situation that has befallen the village, there are many exhausted, confused and afraid. But I would like to reassure them that all is not lost," she explained, kneeling beside one of the wounded villagers as she spoke. "Please talk to them, make them feel comfortable. If they are in need of food, water or clothing, provide them with what we have. But above all, remind them that they still have hope."

The words she spoke were ones she even needed to remind herself of. After coming out of that dark moment when she thought she couldn't go on as a soldier, Queen was reminded of the hope the army represented and the light they sought to bring to others. She thought about her own reasons for joining Taejin's Army, and realised there were many people - both civilians and comrades - who still needed her. She wasn't about to give up on herself just yet.

[queentaejin]

ooc; new + ongoing threads

http://queentaejin.tumblr.com/replies

Secondly, if anyone is looking to start a new thread I would be very much interested. It would be good to boost activity within the community again, so do send me a message here (as I am scarcely on Skype) expressing your interest, thank you.

[queentaejin]

Taejin Mission 033: Dancing with Pirates | Tifa and Queen

[tifataejin-blog]

The explosion had caught Tifa by surprise. She’d have several other partners but not ones who used spells like these. She steadied herself as the boat rocked and was quickly by Queen’s side. At the girl’s orders, Tifa gave her a mock salute and a grin.

"You go do what you you need to do, don’t you worry ‘bout us up here!" she gratefully took the potions and stuffed them into a pouch that was attached to her belt, on the side. With a nod, Tifa ran off to help others quickly move some of the supplies that were on deck, away. Directing others but staying above and keeping an eye on the other ship. 

"You heard the lady, everyone get moving. We don’t have time to lounge around!"

[queentaejin]

Queen quickly ran beneath deck, heading for the communications room. Another explosion rocked the ship just then, and she was thrown back against the wall. Scrambling to her feet, she tore open the door and pulled the headset on, turning some knobs and opening the communications channel. "Attention - this is Queen, serving medic of Taejin's Army; we have come under attack by pirates en route to our destination," she said urgently, gripping the wall tightly as she heard more explosions outside. "Caution will be taken to ensure the safety of the ship and our crew. I have given orders not to engage in battle; awaiting further instructions, over." As silence met her on the other end of the line, she began to panic, afraid that her message hadn't made it to HQ. But after a brief period of static, a voice began to crackle over the line. "This is Taejin's Army, confirming we received your distress call. Priority must be given to the supplies to ensure their safe delivery. Caution your crew and ensure everyone's safety; further backup may be provided to you upon request, over." "Understood, we will attempt an escape route and proceed to our intended destination. That is all; a further report will be given once we arrive, over."

Removing the headpiece and closing the communications channel once more, she exited the room and helped the remaining crew to a safe place. All the while, Queen began to formulate some sort of plan - some means of escape without having to start a confrontation between their ship and the pirates' ship.

[queentaejin]

Taejin Mission 033: Dancing with Pirates | Tifa and Queen

[tifataejin-blog]

Tifa laughed, clapping her hands when Josh asked the wrong person. It was a fun game, although she ended up out rather early. She enjoyed playing announcer. “Great job, guys!" She was grinning when everyone counted out their cards. She hi-fived Josh for both tying for last.

She hadn’t expected the explosion. Really, shame on her for not being prepared but it came out of nowhere. The day had been calm and there was no sign of anyone else on the water. Quickly regaining her composure and balance, Tifa rushed to the side of the boat alongside her partner. The martial artist frowned and refit her gloves, tightening them.

Getting ready, Tifa turned and quickly helped people up.

"If you can’t fight, get to safety, quickly! Get the supplies into a safe location. Everyone be careful!"

[queentaejin]

The thought of pirates hadn't even occurred to Queen. Analysing the situation, she deduced them to be acting not out of ill intent but defense. They must have been trespassers onto their territory and now they were trying to drive them away. "Attention! Our priority here is defending ourselves and the supplies, not in battle!" she shouted, drawing forth her longsword. "Crew, man the cannons but do not engage in open fire - I repeat, do not engage in battle. Only use the cannons when necessary to defend the ship!" As soon as she said that, someone shouted that three projectiles were heading their way. Summoning three Thunder spells, she released them into the air where they made contact, exploding into hazes of smoke. The boat rocked with the force of the explosion, and Queen turned just in time to see Tifa join her at her side. "Tifa, I need to go below deck and alert HQ of this attack. Will you be okay with holding the pirates off until I return?" Tifa was a capable soldier, so surely she would be alright. Taking some potions from her pouch, she handed them to her. She would have no way of healing herself or others until Queen returned, so hopefully they would be enough until then.

[queentaejin]

Falling To Pieces | Queen and Faris

[faristaejin]

Faris almost shook her head in disbelief at Queen’s reaction to her speech. The medic was unwavering, and in so many ways stronger than Faris herself. Though, as the person who had just dictated on the importance of different soldiers and different strengths, she shouldn’t be dwelling on that, Faris reminded herself.

Accepting her bandana from the other, Faris grinned (though the weight of current events had it wavering a bit), “Well, hey, ye know I’m just returning the favor.” She rubbed at her nose self-consciously while pocketing the piece of clothe again.

She smiled more calmly then, truly appreciating Queen’s unshakeable strength and resolve. Knowing the medic was a Captain with her was a true comfort as always.

Standing up and stretching, Faris looked down at Queen and asked, “So what do ye think of the camp? S’not bad, I think. I wanted a location closer to Agardon but Serah wanted something near a water source. I think it might have been for the best. M’surprised how far out the monsters made it.”

[queentaejin]

In that moment, Queen was truly thankful for Faris' company, both as a soldier and as a friend. It was comforting to know she was somebody whom she could rely on when she really needed to, even moreso somebody who understood the great responsibility of serving as a soldier.

Casting her gaze around, she observed the surroundings which she had failed to take notice of beforehand, being too caught up in the aftermath of her confrontation with Lightning. True to Faris' words, it was a fair distance from Agardon but as the monsters were unpredictable in their number and movement, it was probably safer to keep their distance from the town centre.

"You did well, Faris," Queen reassured the other of her judgement, similarly standing up to her full height and dusting off her skirt. Straightening the rest of her uniform, she now knew what she needed to do. Walking alongside Faris, the pair started on their way back to the main heart of the camp, seeking to aid Serah and the other soldiers.

[noctis-taejin-deactivated201401]

Rhythmic Breathing | Noctis and Queen

[noctis-taejin-deactivated201401]

Noctis, admittedly, was hungry. There was an enticing smell wafting about through the air, and he was willing to bet 100,000 Gil on it that the food here would be more delicious than the green soup he ate back then, cooked by the royal chef. Royal chef he may be, but inedible food is inedible, no matter who cooked it.

As Queen fell into pace with his steps, Noctis listened quietly to Queen’s explanation. He wouldn’t be surprised if Queen didn’t know, he too understands that most soldiers came here on duty, not on their leisure time.

He then nodded, “Yes. I’m kind of hungry too."

[queentaejin]

Smiling, Queen turned her attention back to the market stalls, taking in the sights and smells. Everything looked so delicious, it was hard to decide on what to try first. Furthermore, she wasn't sure what sort of tastes Noctis was accustomed to. She didn't want to make the mistake of choosing something he didn't like.

After much browsing around, the pair eventually stopped at a small cart selling different kinds of meat. Usually she didn't like such heavy foods, but she was willing to make this one time an exception. Ordering two sticks of the Demon's Meat Kebab, she handed some gil to the owner, shaking her head when Noctis tried to pay her back for the snack.

"Consider it my treat," she smiled, handing him the other kebab. "After all, it is your first time in Oerba Village, is it not?"

[sephiroth-taejin]

Chequered Colloquy | Sephiroth & Queen

[sephiroth-taejin]

“I am glad to know that.” He replied, courteous, albeit raising an eyebrow at the unnatural quickness of her reply. She appeared flustered by his sudden question, and was embarrassed to have been mistaken as a librarian. So, she was simply a normal patron then. It left him wondering about the whereabouts of the librarian, so that he could check out these books before he left. It would not do for him to break the regulations of the army and taint his reputation here; however much it was; further, not that he cared particularly about that, of course.

Still, he packed his materials and smiled slightly at her apology, amused, “That should have been my line. I apologise for my mistake, miss…?” He paused, realising that he did not yet know her name. Nonetheless, he continued, “Your presence was not a disturbance; I was merely browsing before you appeared.” Eyeing the book that she was holding, he asked, “Is that the book you were returning?” Spotting the cover, he was immediately intrigued. Chess? It has been long since I have played against someone. Gesturing towards the book, he asked further, “Do you play?”

Chess had been a mandatory subject for him during his childhood, and it had been one of the few respites he had during this chapter of his life. After mastering the basics, the coach worked on his mind; how to intimidate your opponent, how to remain calm under all circumstances, how to achieve a clear-cut victory with as little hassle as possible. There was no right or wrong answers to be given, only a constant challenge to his decision at any moment. It had been long, and he had missed it; the thrill of facing a worthy challenge. Everything had seemed so dead and dull and he was numb, apathetic to the world around him after SOLDIER’s betrayal of his trust, which was most probably the cause for what had happened during the mission.

He needed a distraction from the storm that was rampaging through his mind. What was done was done. There is no choice but to move on.

As he removed the books from the table, black and white squares painted on the table’s surface unearthed themselves. Such coincidence. “Would you entertain me?” He invited, a small, polite smile gracing his lips.

[queentaejin]

"Queen," she responded coolly, unconsciously smoothing back her hair as if to get a closer look at the man. She couldn't say that he looked familiar, and yet his presence intrigued her somehow. "You may call me Queen."

Peering down at the book in her hands, she hadn't thought to pay attention to it before. But looking at it now, the black and white patterning on the front cover stood out to her, seeming vaguely familiar. She was reminded of afternoons spent in her village, with her father sitting opposite her and a black and white chessboard between them. As her instructive teacher, he imparted all his knowledge, his skills and his strategies to her, honing her mind and training her to think logically.

"I seldom do nowadays," she finally answered, putting aside her memories and returning her attention to the present. "But I am familiar with the game."

Watching the man clearing the table he was seated at, the books shifted revealing black and white tiles underneath, resembling a chessboard. Realising that she had nothing else on, she eagerly accepted his invitation and took the seat opposite him, bowing her head in thanks. It was welcoming to be able to play the game again, and she was looking forward to getting to know this stranger better.

Setting the book by her side (and making a mental note to return it to the shelves later), her hand brushed against a small drawer of some sort on the underside of the table. Inside the drawer was a set of ivory chess pieces, long unused but still delicate to the touch.

Fingering the White Queen between her fingers, she said smoothly, "Very well, sir; I accept your challenge."

[queentaejin]

Falling To Pieces | Queen and Faris

[faristaejin]

Self-preservation was only natural. In the right circumstances, anyone could feel that same instinctual desire Queen had felt. The most basic of sentiments. No, Faris shook her head, that wouldn’t make Queen feel any better. Heck, just thinking it didn’t make her feel better. It was just empty, justifying ideology.

That being said, Queen’s actions were understandable and probably the right choice in their own way.

"Nah, I wouldn’t call ye selfish, just different," Faris finally spoke, “things aren’t that simple, yeah? S’not about selfish or selfless. You and Lightning are just different types of soldiers. Both are good to have around."

Faris paused and reflected on the situation. She almost asked herself what she would have done in Queen’s position but then the answer was too obvious for her to even finish the question in her mind. The former pirate would have charged in recklessly, with barely a thought to her own safety or the practicality of attempting the rescue.

And then what? she asked herself. And this time she took a while thinking of the answer. There really was no way of knowing after all. Perhaps, Faris and her partner would have been able to save the girl and get out okay. Or perhaps at least one of the three would have been injured, or worse…

She glanced at Queen out of the corner of her eye. She and Queen weren’t just soldiers anymore. They were Captains, Chief of the Medics and Chief of the Commandos. Moments like this made Faris question, just how much that had changed things for her and her friends. Did their lives hold a special weight now? Or did these promotions require them to pay special care to the lives of their comrades? After all, Queen’s choice could have saved Lightning as well.

Faris squinted her eyes a bit, utterly perplexed by all these musings Queen’s predicament were throwing her into. Finally she broke her long pause, “Ye need to think about what you think is best. If ye regret your choice now, then it’s a lesson for next time. But ye gotta keep in mind that ye did what ye thought was best this time around."

[queentaejin]

Different. That word rung out to Queen, and she tilted her head slightly in confusion. As Faris began to explain her reasoning, she nodded her head slowly, accepting her explanation. Yes, it was true there were many different soldiers in Taejin's Army. In her position, a number of different outcomes could have arisen depending on the soldier.

Unfolding her arms from around herself, she held her head up high, newfound resolve rising in her. She couldn't afford to dwell on the past any longer; she had to keep moving forward. Her choice had been made, and it was only one of many she would be forced to face ahead of her.

"You are correct," Queen addressed Faris, her previous grief forgotten. "What is done has been done; we must look towards the future now."

And part of moving towards the future would be aiding her fellow medics in treating the rest of the casualties. They were doing their share and working hard to fulfil their duty, and Queen needed to do the same. Handing back the bandana to Faris, she smiled shyly at the other.

"Thank you, Faris; for believing in me."

[ingustaejin]

Remedium Silentii | Ingus and Queen

[ingustaejin]

Ingus listened intently while the raven-haired woman relayed ill news. Thankfully, it seemed she knew how to obtain the missing ingredient for the antidote, which was better than nothing. 

"Queen."   He said, whilst topping the plumed hat back on his head. "The pleasure is mine."   After another bow, Ingus turned his body towards the exit and waited for Queen to accompany him. He pondered for a moment, her involvement with him outside of the clinic- for an unknown amount of time. Were there other nurses? Would she be otherwise missed or required by patients or higher staff management? Her willingness to leave seemed to disprove his qualms, but nevertheless, Ingus took it upon himself to insist her stay. "I don’t mean to impose this upon you. If you are required to stay, please do. A simple string of directions is ample enough for me to locate the herbs."

  Ingus addressed her as she lifted what appeared to be a traveling pouch from the back of her chair. The expression on her face revealed nothing, yielding only a perfect posture. Though his words were honest, Ingus secretly hoped that the medic would indeed accompany him. He was a savvy fighter, and was sharp in battle, but lurking dangers lay outside the walls of Oerba. Dangers that he could recall all too well. I do not recall seeing any nurses when I entered… Only the smell of recently applied formaldehyde and disinfectant. Depending on where this woman is bringing me, I may or may not be apt to handle the struggles on his own. If only Father were here…..

Images of his father flashed through his head. He hollered like a demon, and threw himself relentlessly at threatening monsters. Ingus could still remember how he felt back then. In that broken down shack beneath a cliff. The smell of sea water and blood constantly tickling the edges of his nostrils. It was hard back then, living with only his father for company on the outskirts of Oerba. From day to day, Ingus would occupy himself with swordplay and reading tomes passed down from his dead mother.  A wave of emotions washed up on the surf of his thoughts. How ironic it was, that he was to go fight alongside someone that reminded him of his mother. Though, that wasn’t very possible, due to the crippling fact that Ingus never met his mother. Only a set of stories from an emotionally imaginative man. Now that his father had followed his mother into the abyss, Ingus found it hard to picture them both. His father was always around to help him think of his mother, and he could always just look at his dad to know his face.  Ingus exhaled lightly, allowing a single release to break through the barriers of his mind. It was a lot to think about in the few seconds that it took Queen to form a reply, and send it over the curvature of her lips. 

[queentaejin]

Ingus inclined his head towards her in a bow, and she followed with a bow of her own. Such formalities were unnecessary, but she supposed he was simply being polite. Meeting him at the exit, the latter voiced his concern about her being away for an extended amount of time. He did have a valid point, but seeing as the clinic had been mostly quiet throughout the morning, she hoped that would continue until they returned.

"It has been a quiet day for the clinic; hopefully it will remain so until we return with the Echo Grass," Queen replied. "Furthermore, it is safer that I accompany you as the herbs may be difficult to distinguish. I do not wish for your journey to be in vain should you return with the wrong herbs."

A small errand away from the clinic would be a welcome relief, in any case. More than that, there was no telling what kind of danger could be lurking out there and as the saying went, there was safety in numbers no?

Slinging her pouch over her shoulder, she flexed her sword hand and felt the familiar streams of magic flowing through her arm, threatening to spill at her fingertips. Lowering her hand, she turned to face Ingus with a serious expression.

"We must make haste if we wish to reach the herbs before sundown. Would you be against travelling by chocobo for any reason?

[noctis-taejin-deactivated201401]

Rhythmic Breathing | Noctis and Queen

[noctis-taejin-deactivated201401]

Well, this girl seemed just to read through him, and Noctis nodded. “But perhaps it will be good for a change of pace once in a while, don’t you agree?" Seeing tall buildings everywhere and every day will and can be tiring enough; hence the reason he actually quite welcomed this change in atmosphere. Still…he somehow missed being surrounded by metropolis cityscape.

As he followed Queen into the town, a major wave of nostalgia hit him. People bustled out and in the shops, children with no care of the world played around, various wares offered by the shops and peddlers, Noctis couldn’t help but to wonder if only it was still the same back in his hometown, he wouldn’t go to this length to leave his country. However, fate dictated differently for his hometown, and all he could do is to go with it.

"Queen," the man asked his companion, “Is there…any special delicacy here?

[queentaejin]

She had almost forgotten how much she missed the sights and sounds of the quaint little village. In many ways, it reminded her so much of her home with the simple market stalls, friendly villagers and young children weaving in and out amongst the crowd. She smiled to herself as a little one bustled past her side, seemingly engaged in an intense game with some of the other village children.

"Indeed, I do welcome the change of pace. It has been so long since I was last here, being occupied with my soldierly duties," Queen remarked. "So I must thank you Noctis for allowing me to accompany you here."

An enticing smell wafted through the air at that point, and it came as no surprise to either of them that they had reached one of the market streets filled with food stalls. Now that she thought about it, she was a little hungry. When Noctis voiced his question, she could only assume that maybe he was feeling similarly peckish as well.

"Eh? Delicacy..?" she repeated, slowing her pace to fall in step beside him. "I cannot say... usually my visits to Oerba Village are on duty, so I seldom stop to enjoy the food market. However now that you mention it, some of the other medics have suggested one or two of the dishes here. Shall we go take a look?"

[queentaejin]

Falling To Pieces | Queen and Faris

[faristaejin]

It was interesting seeing Queen this way. The shock value came from the fact that Queen was usually so composed and professional. She did so well at remaining unphased by whatever life in Oerba threw at her. Faris was almost tempted to think that this breakdown was “not like her at all."

But then, in so many ways, Queen was still classic Queen even in her current state. Even the way she finally broached the task of explaining her ordeal was so like her. "There were plenty of options. I just chose the wrong one." In her mind, she had already broken it down the story into strategics. It was such a logical explanation of what was clearly causing this emotional reaction.

Little details like that made Faris have all the more respect for Queen. At times, she questioned whether or not modeling herself after Queen would make her a better Chief for the Commandos.

When Queen finished her explanation, Faris let out a breath. It was a difficult burden to bear, feeling that you had let another down to their death. Faris could understand that on some level, though she had never had someone die on her watch while a soldier.

"A lot of people died today," she spoke, breaking the silence that had followed Queen’s story, “Guess that doesn’t really make ye feel any better though… S’not like the bigger picture really makes the smaller one any prettier."

She chewed on the inside of her mouth a bit, mulling over how best to comfort Queen about this. It really wasn’t her area of expertise.

"Lightning sounds like a brave soldier, willing to risk her life to save anybody," Faris paused and shot Queen a significant look, “but you are too. Ye signed up for the Army, and ye came here today. That means you’re willing to risk your life too. We all are. We just risk our lives a little differently.

"S’not like our jobs to come out here and risk our lives for no reason. We’re risking our lives to save people and we each have to make our own choices about how we’re gonna save lives. Ye made a choice that made sure ye could live longer to save more people. That’s all."

[queentaejin]

When she broke down like that, she couldn't help but feel a little embarrassed. She was supposed to be professional and level-headed, but somewhere in the whirlwind of emotions she had completely forgotten all about keeping her walls up and her true self hidden. Wiping a stray tear from her cheek, she forced herself to look at Faris again as the other spoke. Her reasoning did make sense, but she still felt as if she had let so many people down, including herself.

"Does... that make me selfish? For putting my own life above the safety of another?" she murmured quietly, hugging her arms around herself.

Even if a lot of people had died today, that wasn't what bothered Queen. It was the fact that she didn't even try to help the situation, before things had fallen too far to be fixed. If she had been less logical, less calculating about the issue - or maybe she had just been scared. She was afraid of letting her emotions rule her judgement, fearing that they hindered rather than helped. But in this recent mission, they could have done more good than harm.

It was a difficult burden, forever having to be reminded of the life she failed to save. In a way, it made her question her role as a soldier, made her nervous in the case that she would be assigned to a similar mission like this in the future. But then again, whether she chose to serve as a medic or a ravager, either way peoples' lives would be in her hands. In her work as a medic, she knew there were some cases even she couldn't treat.

With that in mind, Queen knew there was no time for mourning. There was still much work that needed to be done, in both this mission and future ones. She couldn't afford to let one mistake let her down; she refused to let the same mistake happen twice.

[queentaejin]

Falling To Pieces | Queen and Faris

[faristaejin]

Faris had always known Queen to be an unflinching individual, stalwart and difficult to shake. Something bad happened out there. The grave thought passed through her head as her eyes widened, surprised by the shaky reaction from the medic.

It took a while for Queen to speak and Faris made no effort to urge the other into speech any faster. It was clear that the other soldier was having difficulty summoning up the words. Faris waited patiently for the explanation that she knew would come. Both parties knew there was no avoiding what subject at this point.

The Commando got another surprise when Queen turned to her with a tear running down her face. It seemed the issue at hand was even more serious than Faris had imagined. She listened to Queen’s words, trying to discern what could have happened that left her friend in such a state.

She removed her hand from Queen’s shoulder, not wanting to put more pressure on the other at this time, “It was crazy out there today. Whatever you say ye did, m’sure there weren’t many options."

Faris reached into her pockets and pulled out a bandana that served well enough as a spare handkerchief and held it out to Queen, asking in the kindest voice she could manage, “What happened?"

[queentaejin]

She hated that she had to appear this way in front of Faris. Weakness was something she had always refused to show, and to be breaking down like this in front of one of her comrades, it was something she hated herself for exposing. That cool facade she had spent so long building up and maintaining was gone, which frustrated her.

Even then, Faris seemed understanding; she didn't press, didn't pry where she wasn't meant to, nor did she judge her for her behaviour. It was somewhat welcoming, and came as a small relief to the medic.

"There were plenty of options," Queen choked, clenching her hand into a first. "I just chose the wrong one."

Taking the bandana from Faris with a small word of thanks, she took off her glasses and dabbed at her eyes. Her fingers clenched around the small piece of cloth as she forced herself to meet Faris' gaze.

"There was a survivor left behind in the ruins; a young girl whose mother had charged me with the task of saving her," she began carefully, the unpleasant memories of the recent mission causing her stance to falter. "When we did find her it was already too late - we could not risk saving her without endangering our own safety. Miss Farron and I had a disagreement; she wanted to save the girl in spite of that danger, while I could only think of saving ourselves."

Queen's shoulders began to shake, and her stance wavered again. Her next words were a forced whisper, fresh tears staining her cheeks as she struggled to maintain her composure though she was quickly failing at doing so.

"I... I let her down, Faris. I lacked the same resolution as Lightning did. If only I had been stronger I-I could have changed things. I have failed as a soldier... I am meant to protect people, not let them die!"

[noctis-taejin-deactivated201401]

Rhythmic Breathing | Noctis and Queen

[noctis-taejin-deactivated201401]

On the whim of Queen’s gesture, Noctis then looked ahead. The village of Oerba - was nothing grand like his country, certainly. There are few tall buildings, almost no car, as if it was the traces left by ancient civilizations…But something rung to him, as if it was a familiar atmosphere that welcomed him back to home. Ah, Noctis would be lying if he said he didn’t miss his home - his father who grew ignorant and docile for the past few years and his friends - his citizens, but now that he strive to prove himself, Noctis must not let emotions interfere with his course of actions.

"…It was beautiful, at the least," Noctis answered Queen. The village bustled with business and people, but something was unsettling. Perhaps it was because of the monsters in the wild that could attack the village anytime?

[queentaejin]

Seeing the village of Oerba coming into view in the distance, it occurred to Queen that it had been a while since she last visited the village. Between her own missions and duties, she hardly had the time and rarely a decent excuse to visit.

Watching Noctis' face, he didn't seem awed by the sight, but then again it was to be expected as the village really did not have a lot going for it. In spite of that, she was able to appreciate the simplicity and traditional charm of the sights.

"True, it is a very beautiful village," Queen responded, smiling slightly. "I know it does not seem like much, especially considering our earlier talk about crystals and the like in your home country."

Entering the town, she welcomed the change in pace that the village markets offered and the range of wares on sale. It wasn't long before her earlier doubts surrounding her origins were soon forgotten.

[ingustaejin]

Remedium Silentii | Ingus and Queen

[ingustaejin]

Upon entering, Ingus was met by a pungent scent that tickled the interior of his nostrils. From what he could discern, it was a mix of disinfectant and sterilizer. It wasn’t long before a woman approached, and addressed him in a formal manner. Ingus turned to her, removed his plumed hat, and bowed his head.

"I am Ingus Lumine, of the Commando Division." He lifted his head, and held the hat at his side. Locks of hair, as glorious as the morning sun, gleamed in the fluorescent light. "And I am in need of aid."

From within the shadows of his cloak, Ingus withdrew a single sheet of parchment. He briefly examined the scribbled notes before handing them to the weary-eyed woman.  Echo-Herbs, Echo-Grass, the spell Vox/Esuana, and a glass vial. With these, I can make and Echo Screen to fix this troublesome problem. Hopefully the clinic stocks Echo-Grass, due to its normally unneeded nature. 

It wasn’t until now did Ingus get a chance to further examine the woman. She had long, raven hair that was parted on one side with a beryl clip. Several renegade obsidian strands hung down to her amaranthine flooded eyes, which were encased in wire framed glasses. Thin eyebrows were arched with both concentration and slight curiosity, until dispersing into the bridge of her nose. Her face, strangely luminous, carried an ashen tone to it, which only seemed to augment the vividness of her features. 

An interesting composition of ebony and ivory. 

Ingus thought to himself, while a wave of humorous irony and nostalgia rushed over him. His father once described to him am image of his Mother, using ‘An interesting composition of ebony and ivory’ as the clearest example. While the odd comparison conjured curiosity within Ingus, he thought nothing more on the matter.  "A Black Mage incurred silence unto several of the citizens. Unfortunately, a simple Echo-Herb or Vox is not enough for this." He explained in a professional tone, whilst withdrawing another sheet of paper from within his robes. "I have here the precise written complaint."

Ingus held the complaint within her reach in case she wanted to glance at it, though it only carried unimportant details of his encounter with the Black Mage.

[queentaejin]

Returning the bow with a small nod of her own, she listened carefully to the youth's introduction before taking the scrap of parchment he offered to her. It was a set of instructions for a medical remedy of some sort, and from first glance it seemed to be a powerful counter for Silence that extended beyond the usual Echo Herb or Vox spell.

Glancing up towards the mage - Ingus, was it? - she now understood his request for her assistance. Being a commando, he lacked the knowledge of a medic as well as access to the healing spell required for his remedy.

"I see," Queen began, processing the information she had been given. Most of the ingredients she needed for the potion were here on hand, but as the parchment had already suggested, the only item the clinic didn't stock was Echo Grass.

"Aside from the Echo Grass, I am able to provide the ingredients you require," she continued, straightening her glasses. "As stated, Echo Grass is seldom required for most remedies and as such the clinic does not currently stock said herb."

Handing back the parchment, she shifted her weight to her left, smoothing back some hair from the right side of her face. At least, now she had something to occupy the rest of her afternoon. A request as serious as Ingus' couldn't be ignored or waited upon.

"However, I know precisely where we may obtain some Echo Grass, though it is a fair distance away," she explained, reaching for the pouch hanging on the back of her chair. "My name is Queen; allow me the pleasure of accompanying you on your quest."

[queentaejin]

Falling To Pieces | Queen and Faris

[faristaejin]

Faris blinked in rapid succession. Well that confirmed that something was wrong. Good to know her hunch had been right on. She watched the back of Queen’s head for a moment, wondering what the best thing to do in this situation was. 

Queen had been there for her when she had had her breakdown and uncharacteristic emotional outburst. But was that really what Queen needed right now? A shoulder to cry on, a welcoming ear? The medic was already a reticent individual, maybe she really did do best coping on her own.

The frown on her face deepened at this thought. No, she was sure that everybody needed to let out their frustrations and feelings from time to time. Queen was no different. And sure there were other ways of working through stuff. Hell, Faris herself generally preferred working on her boat or sparring, but that didn’t mean talking it out wasn’t necessary from time to time.

Perhaps Queen really did just need sometime to herself, but that wasn’t the impression Faris was getting. Reaching out, Faris put a hand on Queen’s shoulder and turned the medic to face her.

"S’not a burden, Queen," she said firmly, “we both know I’d be returning the favor, listening to ye now. And ye don’t have the look of someone who’s ready to move on by herself. So tell me," she nodded her head in the direction of the battlefield, “what happened out there?"

[queentaejin]

When Faris put her hand on her shoulder, Queen flinched quite badly. That reaction in itself was more than enough to tell Faris that something definitely wasn't right with the medic. She sifted through all possible responses in her mind, attempting to find a way around her, to avoid the question.

But alas, it was too late. Faris' words seemed to confirm her fears, and she tried harder to keep her back turned to the other, hoping to cover up the tears that had begun forming at the corners of her eyes again.

Moving on was always a difficult task for Queen; being the person whom she was, she tended to dwell on things for a long while even after they had passed. This time was no exception, she thought as she shakily turned to Faris, a tear trickling down over her cheek.

"Faris I..." she choked, struggling to form her next words. "I-I made a terrible mistake..."

[ingustaejin]

Remedium Silentii | Ingus and Queen

The day had not begun as blithe as one would have liked. Upon exiting his quarters early this morn, Ingus was confronted by bleak skies and rigid air. Having no responsibilities to attend to today, the Red Mage took to the streets at an attempt to find a cure to his monotony. The streets were filled with lifeless dead, whom wandered aimlessly from vender to vender. Ingus was surprised to see the amount of people out at such an early hour, and found the contrast of liveliness to life equally astonishing.

Just as Ingus was about to leave the premises, having dubbed the area just as forsaken as his entertainment, a man approached him. He dawned a black cloak that parted at his abdomen, and wore a pointy black hat.  “You, sir.”

The man spoke-

“You are a mage, are you not?”

Ingus examined the nervous stranger, and rested his hand on the pommel of his sword.

“What do you want?”

“Ah, yes. I’ve run into a predicament…..”

The man droned on for several minutes about some magical practices. Ingus could tell he had a silver tongue, and an annoyingly shiny one at that. 

“… Can you help?”

Ingus blinked. Though he had zoned out for a good majority of the strangers speech, Ingus gathered that the man had accidentally Silenced several villagers. Afraid of being reprimanded, he had searched for a cure himself, though came to no avail. 

Under normal circumstances, Ingus would just report the man and be on his way, but today was different. 

There’s nothing better to do. Might as well aid this man in his endeavors.

“I shall help, but only because I have not the authority to berate you myself.”

After that, Ingus dismissed himself from their presence, and made his way back to his quarters. Ingus shifted through several of the White Magic tomes that he kept in search for a cure. He could not cast any of the spells provided, though they may not be much use. The man who committed the accident claimed that he was trying to develop an incurable strain of the spell, and it misfired. Whether the stranger was gloating, or if his words help merit, was beyond Ingus. So, in lure of the predicament, he cracked open an Alchemy/Botany tome and researched some more. It didn’t take long to stumble upon a certain mixture that would surely succeed. It involved making an extract of Echo Herbs and Echo Grass, and combining it with the corresponding White Magic that cured Silence. Being an expert of neither White Magic or Botany, Ingus exited his quarters once more ins search of someone that surely would be. The Clinic.

Ingus respired his frustration, and deposited the pocket map back into the folds of his overcoat. Several hours had passed since he had began studying, and yet the sky remained derelict and the air stark. Forenutaly the Clinic was within sight at this point, urging Ingus to fasten his pace. Once there, Ingus entered the fairly empty area and searched for a nurse, or White Mage of sorts. 

[queentaejin]

It was a quiet day for Queen in the clinic. Visiting patients had been few throughout the morning, and to her own surprise she did not feel like training or studying today. It was most uncharacteristic of the medic herself, which she suspected was due to fatigue. Rubbing her tired eyes, she removed her glasses, setting them on her desk.

Letting out a sigh, she briefly considered going back to her living quarters to retire for the day. Being a quiet day for the clinic, the other medics would be able to manage without her, surely. But as chief medic, she couldn't leave them either.

Closing her eyes and leaning back in her chair for a moment, she heard the faint sound of approaching footsteps. Sitting up properly, she replaced her glasses on her face, straightening out her uniform before turning her attention to the guest.

A youth stood in the entrance, dressed in bright red robes and a large hat. From his attire, she attributed that he was a mage of some sort. Queen began to wonder what business he had in the clinic, running through possible scenarios in her head. Preparing for an upcoming mission? Here to visit one of the other medics?

"Hello," she began, approaching him. "How may I assist you today?"

[queentaejin]

Falling To Pieces | Queen and Faris

[faristaejin]

Hearing Queen say it out loud now, Faris wondered if Serah and Lightning were related somehow. Maybe Farron was just a really common name in some areas of Gran Pulse though. Ah well, s’none of my business.

“That’s good,” Faris replied, smiling a little, “Lightning struck me as a strong one. It’s good to hear she measures up, we need able capable soldiers, especially with our forces so spread out at the moment thanks to this mess here.” She gestured at their surroundings.

The former pirate’s smile faded a bit as she peered at Queen out of the corner of her eye. The medic was fidgeting. That alone was unusual for such a professional individual but paired with what had already seemed like evasive answers to Faris’s conversation was enough to spur a sense of concern rising in the Captain of the Commandos.

Frown in place, she turned to face Queen more fully, “This was a pretty tough mission on everyone. I didn’t have to see too much of the real trouble myself, but I’d understand if ye needed someone to talk to about all this.”

She sighed at the memory of her first encounter with Queen, “S’not like it’d be the first time one of us unloaded on the other.”

[queentaejin]

It was true that after this mission, Queen would see Lightning as a capable soldier; however she wasn't sure if the two of them would ever see eye to eye again. She thought best not to bring the matter to Faris, though it became harder to hold back as time went on.

And then the commando spoke, voicing her concern for Queen's unusual behaviour. Although she prided herself in her professionalism, it seemed she could still be read like an open book. There was no way she would be able to avoid her now.

Lost for words for a moment, she bit her lip and turned away from Faris, holding back tears. However much she wanted to take up the other's offer, she still wasn't comfortable in opening up about her feelings yet.

"I... I could not," she mumbled, eyes downcast and posture tense. "I do not wish to burden you with problems such as mine. Please do not worry, I will overcome this in my own time."