AnasAbdin
Xuebing Du
he wasn't even looking at me and he found me
Kaledo Art
Lint Roller? I Barely Know Her
occasionally subtle
Claire Keane
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RMH
Sade Olutola
pixel skylines
JBB: An Artblog!
titsay
ojovivo
shark vs the universe
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we're not kids anymore.
NASA
noise dept.
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@sir-valen
"Alright, that's about it, I'm retiring"
"Holistone is now in the hands of @sir-valen, good luck"
Oh, come on, General. You're not that heartless are you? We've been so busy here in Holistone already, and now you want to dump even more work on me?
Nope. Absolutely not. Try again in about a decade.
A flash of blue flares before the knight. From it steps a Stern Essail Guard, sword drawn. She is covered in a faint purple glow.
"Halt, Toplander. You are hereby under questioning in the name of the Queen. I recommend you cooperate unless you desire fatal consequences."
Woah, easy there. You know, showing up unannounced and threatening someone with a sword isn’t really the best first impression.
But since you’re clearly not from around here, let me give you some friendly advice.
(In a swift, decisive move, Valen disarms the intruder.)
Don't try and extort the guy known for his speed, especially when he's still got his weapon on him.
Now, are you going to introduce yourself properly, or would you prefer we have this conversation while you're behind bars?
"Silence, Toplander! Since you choose not to cooperate, I shall take you to the High Priestess by force. She shall cleanse your corrupt soul!"
The Stern Guard unsheathes a dagger from her waist. She lunges at the knight as swiftly as his own disarmament. The glow surrounding her flickers with each attack.
"Where have you hidden the stolen texts?!"
(Valen parries each blow). Listen, lady, I don't know anything about your 'stolen texts'. But what I do know is that I'm not going anywhere with the likes of you.
So if you want to drag me back to your High Priestess, then you're gonna have to try harder than that.
A certain Wilder lady in dark armored garbs comes rushing in just after Valen had wiped the floor with the Essail guard's face.
"Whew! Looks like I missed the show, Capt! Knew you could wrangle that one, he's a rowdy fella. I have 'fellow' guards more diplomatic in their approach and he's not one of them sadly enough. Oh well." She approaches Valen. Stopping by the Essail, tapping and pressing the sole of her boot on his back before simply stepping over him.
"Had quite the worthy delays. Its why I wasn't able to report back as soon as I can. Gotta sell the act of being one of the Sal'thorin folk, y'know? And get this, an Essail guard actually attempted to attack the General! Quite ballsy I say, but hey, I think that guard could use some familiar company behind bars hm?"
She tilts her head at Valen. Placing her hands on her hips, "I'll fill you in more on the situation in a bit but in a nutshell, their ringleader, High Priestess Velara is going nuts because a bunch of texts in their archives went missing. I imagine documents very important enough to get them crawling out from underneath the rock and scuttling all over the surface of Esperia. Anywhere and anyone they can get their hands on just to find those papers. I don't know if Merlin filled you in on the situation in Ironhold Bay and Sal'thorin, especially after Hogan nearly got executed in the latter, but I say things are getting very.. very eventful." A smile cracks from the lips of the seemingly deadpan serious Lieutenant, giving way to the lighthearted oddball underneath.
[No one here knows how she looks like despite her going around and stuff, so here she is]
- Dame Anona.
[Anona Moss of the Heroic Order. Lieutenant of the Solitaires]
Wow, Anona. It's been over a month, and you haven't sent me a single report. I was starting to worry that Azkr- Akzar-...That dragon the Magister told me about had eaten you or something.
(Sighs dramatically). But no, you just couldn't find the time to write to your poor Captain who was left worried sick about your safety...
Heh, just kidding. I know you can handle yourself. You wouldn't be my second in command if you couldn't.
Welcome back to Holistone, Dame Anona. It's good to finally have you back with us. Things have been pretty quiet here without you around to liven things up. I was actually starting to get a little bored.
Now, you were saying something about a high priestess and missing documents? From that look on your face, I can already tell that this is gonna be interesting.
With Dora leading on the Dragon Chasers, they move quickly through town and out the gates. Once they are past the bridge over to Remnant Peaks, however, they leave the path and disappear in the shrubs.
"We'll need good weapons, too." they surmise and slow down in pace to look for some sturdy sticks. For a short while they remain under the trees.
"Look, I've got a nice one!" one of the boys exclaims and shows off his stick. Dora sighs, looking at her own less impressive stick. "Okay, you can be the first one in, then!", she responds and even takes out her small crystal lamp. "And this will lead our way straight to the dragon!"
After a bit of back and forth, all kids are sorted with sticks and they are about to continue with their hunt when they hear wood cracking in the distance.
"Sshhhh! Was that you?" Dora stares at the distance fiercely but her words are aimed at her friends. "No, we didn't move at all!" they whisper back. All eyes scan the area but nothing can be seen.
"You think he's there?" one of them suggests. "Sir Valen?" Dora gulps and hums before she continues. "Fighting him will be tougher than going against the dragon. He took me straight to prison in the attic last time. He knows no mercy!" The other kids offer some sympathetic nods. "It is best that we avoid him. And I have an idea!"
The kids shuffle closer together, lowering their voices again.
"One man against us four. Let's split. It will be impossible for him to follow all of us! Be quiet and clever. Time to beat him with his own weapons! Heheheh. We meet again down by you-know-where."
Stifled laughter fills the air before the kids chaotically ran away from each other, only to cross paths a few trees further away and then finally disappear in four vague enough different directions.
Splitting up so I lose their trail, huh? Guess they're smarter than I gave them credit for.
Hmm. It seems like they all plan on meeting up in the same spot afterwards, so it doesn't really matter who I follow.
But it's probably best to keep a closer eye on Dora. She's always had a bad habit of getting herself into sticky situations, and since she's their new ringleader, she has something to prove too. That combination feels like a disaster just waiting to happen.
Geez, when did babysitting become part of my job description?
(Valen chooses to follow after Dora).
Ratting me out to The General wasn’t cool, you know? But since you’re letting the raccoon stay in the Mystical House, I guess I can forgive you. Huh? Of course you agreed to it, Magister. I’m sure your amnesia is just acting up again. Anyway, it’s too late now since he’s already made himself comfortable in the library. Who would have guessed that your diary made such a good snack? ;)
Anyway, gotta head back to work. Have fun with your new friend.
From, @sir-valen
Oh you think you're so funny...
"Better Valen?" Wow, Magister, I'm hurt.
(Dramatically) To think you'd replace me so easily, after everything we've been through together...
Weren't you leaving?
Hello Valen. I hope you're not overwhelmed by all the tourists coming through and the ware inspections? It has gotten quite a lot more busy now that we've established new trading routes...
In any case, I hope you're doing well, and I wouldn't mind helping out with the paperwork. After all, I was the one who brought up the idea of establishing this business opportunity.
I've got some free-time on my hands.
Sincerely
~Rowan
Oh, hey there, Little Man. Or should I call you 'young master Rowan' since you're here on official business?
I can't say you've made my job easy. Inspecting every caravan, documenting every trade, making sure passengers are in the right place, and keeping an eye out for your would-be assassin has sure kept me on my toes. Not to mention that Holistone is busier than it's ever been now that it's a trade hub. There are so many new people, it's a little hard to keep track of.
But that's not really a bad thing. You've sure made this place a lot more lively, and the stuff you've been importing is really cool too. It feels like this was just the boost this city needed to put us on the map.
Not to mention, you and the Magister have been running yourselves ragged. You've been scrambling from one end of Esperia to another trying to make this plan work. I'm not heartless enough to make you do paperwork after all of that.
Don't worry, Rowan. You just focus on taking a break, I think you've earned it. If I need help, I can always go bother The General.
He wasn't here for most of the project, so it's only fair I get him to pull his weight now that he's back.
A flash of blue flares before the knight. From it steps a Stern Essail Guard, sword drawn. She is covered in a faint purple glow.
"Halt, Toplander. You are hereby under questioning in the name of the Queen. I recommend you cooperate unless you desire fatal consequences."
Woah, easy there. You know, showing up unannounced and threatening someone with a sword isn’t really the best first impression.
But since you’re clearly not from around here, let me give you some friendly advice.
(In a swift, decisive move, Valen disarms the intruder.)
Don't try and extort the guy known for his speed, especially when he's still got his weapon on him.
Now, are you going to introduce yourself properly, or would you prefer we have this conversation while you're behind bars?
"Good night, Valen." Lavi murmurs as they step out of the tavern but as she turns to leave the other way, she looses her footing and stumbles against another late night visitor. "Oops, my apologies."
Woah, easy there. (Valen reaches out a hand to help steady Lavi before turning to the other visitor).
Sorry about my friend here. We've had a long day, so we're a little tired. I guess she didn't see you there.
(Turns back to Lavi) You alright, Lav? Don't tell me you spent so much time behind a desk that you've forgotten how to walk. I might have to carry you if that's the case, and no one wants that.
Unless you do. I won't judge.
"Oh hey Valen! Fancy seeing you here! It's been a while, I hope you've been well,"
(Linnie walks up to the knight, brushing his streaky hair from his eye, a new addition, a blue and gold sword, hanging from his hip.)
"Oh, I did want to ask you for some advice...I recently got this...back- I recently got this back and I'd like to try to relearn how to use it so I don't look like an idiot the next time push comes to shove...Have you got any pointers?"
(Linnie gestures to the blade with a sheepish shuffle, a slightly nervous laugh in the back of his throat.)
[ @themiscellaneousarchive ]
You want me to teach you swordsmanship?
Wow, Magister. I'm honoured, really.
I never thought the great Merlin would come to little old me for lessons, especially not when The General would be happy to help. I just know he'll be green with envy when he finds out about this. But don't worry, I won't rub it in...
Too much.
Anyway, you're in good hands. Old Stormcaller and I will make a warrior out of you in no time, knight's honour.
Lesson one: Straighten up a little, Magister. Wielding a sword is all about confidence, and that posture isn't doing you any favours either.
Lesson two: There's no better way to learn than first-hand experience.
En Garde!
"Ah well, yeah perhaps we keep this between us huh. Anyhow, from what I remember hazily, my original way of fighting wasn't too different from yours,"
(And well I can't quite face Hogan about this, it's embarrassing...)
(Linnie listens, a hand resting on the hilt of the sword, his expression almost betraying his thoughts)
"Right, good posture, of course,"
(His tone turning to self loathing, Linnie draws the crystalline blade, the sunlight through it casting blue spots of light on the ground and he holds it in in front of him)
"Hm? Wait-"
(Linnie steps back as Valen lunges, swinging his sword upwards and the sparring ensues. Linnie seems to be struggling, something is distracting him, so much so that he is quite easily disarmed. He rolls his eyes, shaking his head)
"Dammit! Now's not the time, I'm trying to focus!"
(His voice, quiet , but not quiet enough, rubbing his left eye. He wipes something away with a sigh and summons the sword back to his hand)
"Sorry Valen, shall we go again?"
That's the spirit. I'd have been pretty disappointed if you gave up that easily.
But, uh...you ok there, Magister? You seemed a little out of it.
"I- You heard me, huh?"
(Linnie shuffles, brushing back his hair, lowering the blade)
"Uhm...So the same thing that happened just before Mirael pulled me aside after she helped defeat that hypofiend back at Franz's place, happened just now..."
(Wow well done. Brilliant explanation.)
"...I got a memory back. I'm fine, I promise, wasn't a painful one,"
(Even though it's mixed with one that's not mine...)
"Anyways, shall we continue?"
(Linnie raises the sword up again, ready to go)
If you say so, Magister. Though it seems like your eye is looking a little brighter than before. At this rate, it won't be long until you've got a matching set again.
But for now, let's see if those new memories of yours can help you keep up. Shall we?
"Oh hey Valen! Fancy seeing you here! It's been a while, I hope you've been well,"
(Linnie walks up to the knight, brushing his streaky hair from his eye, a new addition, a blue and gold sword, hanging from his hip.)
"Oh, I did want to ask you for some advice...I recently got this...back- I recently got this back and I'd like to try to relearn how to use it so I don't look like an idiot the next time push comes to shove...Have you got any pointers?"
(Linnie gestures to the blade with a sheepish shuffle, a slightly nervous laugh in the back of his throat.)
[ @themiscellaneousarchive ]
You want me to teach you swordsmanship?
Wow, Magister. I'm honoured, really.
I never thought the great Merlin would come to little old me for lessons, especially not when The General would be happy to help. I just know he'll be green with envy when he finds out about this. But don't worry, I won't rub it in...
Too much.
Anyway, you're in good hands. Old Stormcaller and I will make a warrior out of you in no time, knight's honour.
Lesson one: Straighten up a little, Magister. Wielding a sword is all about confidence, and that posture isn't doing you any favours either.
Lesson two: There's no better way to learn than first-hand experience.
En Garde!
"Ah well, yeah perhaps we keep this between us huh. Anyhow, from what I remember hazily, my original way of fighting wasn't too different from yours,"
(And well I can't quite face Hogan about this, it's embarrassing...)
(Linnie listens, a hand resting on the hilt of the sword, his expression almost betraying his thoughts)
"Right, good posture, of course,"
(His tone turning to self loathing, Linnie draws the crystalline blade, the sunlight through it casting blue spots of light on the ground and he holds it in in front of him)
"Hm? Wait-"
(Linnie steps back as Valen lunges, swinging his sword upwards and the sparring ensues. Linnie seems to be struggling, something is distracting him, so much so that he is quite easily disarmed. He rolls his eyes, shaking his head)
"Dammit! Now's not the time, I'm trying to focus!"
(His voice, quiet , but not quiet enough, rubbing his left eye. He wipes something away with a sigh and summons the sword back to his hand)
"Sorry Valen, shall we go again?"
That's the spirit. I'd have been pretty disappointed if you gave up that easily.
But, uh...you ok there, Magister? You seemed a little out of it.
Ratting me out to The General wasn’t cool, you know? But since you’re letting the raccoon stay in the Mystical House, I guess I can forgive you. Huh? Of course you agreed to it, Magister. I’m sure your amnesia is just acting up again. Anyway, it’s too late now since he’s already made himself comfortable in the library. Who would have guessed that your diary made such a good snack? ;)
Anyway, gotta head back to work. Have fun with your new friend.
From, @sir-valen
Oh you think you're so funny...
"Better Valen?" Wow, Magister, I'm hurt.
(Dramatically) To think you'd replace me so easily, after everything we've been through together...
*something tiptoes nearby... something small, orange and pink, something with eight legs, something with endless love for you... little coos are heard from somewhere near you, a plastic sword that goes in fancy drinks falls to your feet*
Huh? What's this?
A tiny toy sword...?
Hold on, this looks familiar.
(Ominous crooning sounds).
Oh, hey there, little guy. Is this yours? (Valen hands the small plastic sword back to the octopus).
(Happy octopus noises).
Heh, no problem, lil buddy. Now that that's done, how about we get you back to where you came from?
My Valen...Love my Valen...Stay with my Valen...
Wait, you can talk?!
Dora and the kids run off 'to do something else' ... until they are sure to be far away enough.
"He's on to us! By Dura's cookies! Okay, we need to take the long route. Back to the main square, out by the south gate, hop over to Remnants and then back down to the river."
As Dora reminds her friends in mischief about the route again, she keeps looking about to make sure the knight isn't suddenly popping out of nowhere. Still, she lowers her voice to a whisper for the final part.
"We all know where the new cave is! Ready to face that dragon? Because I sure am! Let's go!"
Excitedly they dash off, forgetting about their voices, screaming again in anticipation of epic battles and heroic victories.
Geez, have these kids never heard of being subtle?
At least I don’t have to worry about them being my subordinates one day. With big mouths like that, they’d never get accepted into the Solitaries.
Still, what’s all this talk about a dragon? Last time I checked, there weren’t any of those just hanging around the Remnant Peaks. I'd better keep following them, just to make sure they stay safe.
(Mumbles) The General really needs to have a talk with their parents.
(Valen continues to follow the group, his presence unnoticed).
If you came across a magic lamp and genie came out to grant you three wishes... what would you wish for? (But remember the classic rules: no kills, no revivals, no love, no more wish wishes. But you get a free undo should you not like the result! ;-) )
Three wishes, huh?
Well, obviously I’d wish for more free time, less paperwork, and an endless supply of snacks...
Heh, just kidding. I’m actually pretty happy with my life the way it is.
Besides, using a genie to get whatever I want feels kinda boring. There’s no sense of accomplishment or even relief at finally getting something done.
I prefer to work for my goals. So if I want more free time and less paperwork, I’ll have to do it the old-fashioned way. By whining to The Magister until they do it for me.
What do you call a short mother?
A minimum.
(Sighs). I'm sorry to tell you this, Magister...
But when it comes to humour, you're the one who falls short.
may a humble civilian offer the handsome knight a simple kiss on the cheek
That's a pretty bold request, don't you think?
But, since you asked so nicely, I don't see why not.
Heh, well...
You got your wish, now what? I mean, the least you could do is buy me dinner after that.
Woah, are you ok? You're looking a little red.
I wish I could tell you a compliment, but I am just so glad you are handling your work (and yourself) so perfectly that I have no words that would sufficiently express my admiration.
You seem a little tongue-tied, Magister. Don't tell me that my presence alone has you all flustered.
But no worries, I hear you loud and clear.
And I'm truly honoured that you appreciate my efforts thus far.
Now, if you could just write a nice long report on how helpful and hardworking I am, I would love to give a copy to The General. He'd never believe me otherwise.
