The Stormfather He/Him Posted August 10, 2024 Posted August 10, 2024 Quote I’m so happy I got to read this live as you posted it to each other. it’s like finally waking up at the right time to catch a livestream in a different country. 3
The Bookwyrm he/him Posted August 10, 2024 Posted August 10, 2024 Just now, Spark of Hope said: He’s wrong, heswrongheswrongheswrong. …Right? Tinker was always talking about retaining humanity. He’d saved her life several times. He wouldn’t lie to deceive her. She burned her tin. She heard the slight crackle of the speaker. Sure enough, there were inconsistencies with the way the crying sounded. Every muscle in her body relaxed and she fell into Tinker’s chest. Tinker slowly let go of her wrists and wrapped his arms around her. Relief flooded him. Thank the distant moons... He just stood like that for a moment, not knowing what to say. Part of him was acutely aware of the environment, what was supposed to be happening. But... Marewill needed him, didn't she? @Edema Rue Quote Are the other tributes able to hear him talk?
Through the Living Hope Posted August 10, 2024 Posted August 10, 2024 2 minutes ago, The Bookwyrm said: Tinker slowly let go of her wrists and wrapped his arms around her. Relief flooded him. Thank the distant moons... He just stood like that for a moment, not knowing what to say. Part of him was acutely aware of the environment, what was supposed to be happening. But... Marewill needed him, didn't she? @Edema Rue “What are we going to do? I don’t want to fight you, but what’ll happen to us if we don’t?”
The Stormfather He/Him Posted August 10, 2024 Posted August 10, 2024 (edited) Adris, gang owned basement. “Them Peacekeepers gettin’ mighty close to our base, boss.” The sniveling wretch that was his second in command, Druvid, groaned. ”I know. The Rusted headquarters may soon be compromised. We may have to leave this place. Find somewhere else to stay.” Everyone in the small underground bar froze, and looked at him. He rose from his seat, placing his mug of ale down beside Druvid’s. ”Boss, what’r’ya sayin’” Druvid protested. ”We do not have the power to fight the Peacekeepers. We don’t have resources. We hardly have weapons. We’re scrambling to survive this world.” Adris rose his voice. ”Even with our few metalborn, we can hardly escape them when we get found. Fighting them is out of the question. And with our prime assassin gone, put it that horrible arena, we have no real way of winning this fight.” ”So we have few options. We can run, likely be caught and killed. We can fight. Take some of them with us when we go to the beyond. “Or, there are some others who have been having trouble with the Peacekeepers.” ”Surely, boss, surely you don’t mean them Steeles?” Druvid asked. ”The Steeles combined with ourselves would be a powerful force. If we could get our hands on some weapons to arm ourselves, with half-a dozen mistings together, and a few ferrings, we’d be a force to be reckoned with.” He was met by stunned silence in the bar. ”Let’s do it! If we’re going down, the Steeles should go down too!” Shouts of agreement and protest came, but slowly they formed into one solidified voice. ”They’re gonna get Mark killed! We gotta pay ‘‘em back!” @Edema Rue hopefully this is okay. Edited August 10, 2024 by The Stormfather 2
SmilingPanda19 Any! Posted August 10, 2024 Posted August 10, 2024 15 hours ago, Edema Rue said: “Petty,” Gavin mutters. “Petty, petty, petty! All of you, so absorbed in shallow things like family. You can’t fool me. I’ve known real men and women. That’s what I’m making here. Trying is right. All you ever do is try. Until you learn to succeed, you can s-stay away from me.” He stomped off. “I don’t need a father.” Quote Okay I’m trying to reply but I’m tired and feel tipsy “You will marry that government officials daughter! You will become the next head gamemaker! And you will respect your father!” He yells after him, clenching his fists.
Edema Rue she/her Posted August 10, 2024 Author Posted August 10, 2024 15 hours ago, The Bookwyrm said: Tinker squeezed his eyes shut against the cries. "I know." I know. He opened his eyes and regretted it. The sight of Marewill, eyes red and brimming with tears, holding a bloody knife...the pain, the despair... She's... she's actually going to do it, isn't she? Something in him broke. Snapped. ... Tinker became aware of the faintest lick of power, in his core. In desperation, he reached out to it. A sensation burst through him. The air briefly flickered around him, giving him the sensation as if he'd been suddenly jolted, although he hadn't moved an inch. A strange sense of deja vu overcame him and faded in a split second. A web of blue lines pointing from his chest flickered into and out of his vision. A burst of strength ran through his veins, then left just as quickly, leaving him almost fatigued. But at the forefront of his attention was the split-second enhancement to his physical senses. A flash of brightness, an overwhelming scent of sweat and fear, the coolness of the arena suddenly becoming freezing. And the screams of a young girl suddenly piercing, deafening. Loud enough to hear the unnatural, mechanical static of a speaker laced in the voice. ... The burst of power faded as instantly as it had come. Tinker barely had time to process what had happened. But his head snapped up. He lunged at Marewill and grabbed her wrists, holding them steady. "Mare," he said urgently. "That's a speaker. They don't actually have her. Burn tin; listen. Trust me." @Edema Rue Quote *literally cackling* Yeah, the other tributes can hear him. 10 hours ago, Lotus Blossom said: Quote Think like a boxing ring? So it has like a rim, but they can all see it from their own platforms. 6 hours ago, The Stormfather said: Quote Same thing I told Lotus, you guys are watching but can’t get to them. 6 hours ago, The Bookwyrm said: Tinker slowly let go of her wrists and wrapped his arms around her. Relief flooded him. Thank the distant moons... He just stood like that for a moment, not knowing what to say. Part of him was acutely aware of the environment, what was supposed to be happening. But... Marewill needed him, didn't she? @Edema Rue 5 hours ago, The Stormfather said: Adris, gang owned basement. “Them Peacekeepers gettin’ mighty close to our base, boss.” The sniveling wretch that was his second in command, Druvid, groaned. ”I know. The Rusted headquarters may soon be compromised. We may have to leave this place. Find somewhere else to stay.” Everyone in the small underground bar froze, and looked at him. He rose from his seat, placing his mug of ale down beside Druvid’s. ”Boss, what’r’ya sayin’” Druvid protested. ”We do not have the power to fight the Peacekeepers. We don’t have resources. We hardly have weapons. We’re scrambling to survive this world.” Adris rose his voice. ”Even with our few metalborn, we can hardly escape them when we get found. Fighting them is out of the question. And with our prime assassin gone, put it that horrible arena, we have no real way of winning this fight.” ”So we have few options. We can run, likely be caught and killed. We can fight. Take some of them with us when we go to the beyond. “Or, there are some others who have been having trouble with the Peacekeepers.” ”Surely, boss, surely you don’t mean them Steeles?” Druvid asked. ”The Steeles combined with ourselves would be a powerful force. If we could get our hands on some weapons to arm ourselves, with half-a dozen mistings together, and a few ferrings, we’d be a force to be reckoned with.” He was met by stunned silence in the bar. ”Let’s do it! If we’re going down, the Steeles should go down too!” Shouts of agreement and protest came, but slowly they formed into one solidified voice. ”They’re gonna get Mark killed! We gotta pay ‘‘em back!” @Edema Rue hopefully this is okay. Quote Yup, that’s all good! …is this part of Bookie’s plot or do we have two separate revolution things? @The Bookwyrm 2 hours ago, SmilingPanda19 said: “You will marry that government officials daughter! You will become the next head gamemaker! And you will respect your father!” He yells after him, clenching his fists. Gavin doesn’t respond. I don’t need him. I never have. He hated that something in him still hurt.
Through the Living Hope Posted August 10, 2024 Posted August 10, 2024 3 minutes ago, Edema Rue said: @The Bookwyrm Gavin doesn’t respond. I don’t need him. I never have. He hated that something in him still hurt. Quote We all have a PM 2
The Stormfather He/Him Posted August 10, 2024 Posted August 10, 2024 Adris, alleyway ”Zebtir, ready yourself. They’re coming.” Adris said to the nearest Steele. The troupe of six, including Adris, was fanned out in the alley behind him. Himself, a pewterarm, was preemptively burning, as was Tradith, the Steele’s pewterarm. A Soother from the Steele who had given her name as ‘your nightmares’ held two knives at the ready. A Coinshot and a Lurcher, Ashan and Bathri, stood perfectly still, though everyone knew they were as dangerous staying still as they were with a weapon. A seeker, Finis, from the Rusted, as well as Adris’ two actual friends, Arme and Lertie, a tineye and a Smoker, both had small glass daggers. The group, the metalborn of both gangs unified, were prepared for war. ”A few more moments.” Arne said, hearing the footsteps of the peacemakers approaching. Quote Eddie, what kind of equipment do Peacemakers have? And how big of groups would you say they travel in? If you don’t know I’ll just put them in groups of six-ten for smaller groups and 10-20 for larger forces. @Edema Rue
Edema Rue she/her Posted August 10, 2024 Author Posted August 10, 2024 48 minutes ago, The Stormfather said: Adris, alleyway ”Zebtir, ready yourself. They’re coming.” Adris said to the nearest Steele. The troupe of six, including Adris, was fanned out in the alley behind him. Himself, a pewterarm, was preemptively burning, as was Tradith, the Steele’s pewterarm. A Soother from the Steele who had given her name as ‘your nightmares’ held two knives at the ready. A Coinshot and a Lurcher, Ashan and Bathri, stood perfectly still, though everyone knew they were as dangerous staying still as they were with a weapon. A seeker, Finis, from the Rusted, as well as Adris’ two actual friends, Arme and Lertie, a tineye and a Smoker, both had small glass daggers. The group, the metalborn of both gangs unified, were prepared for war. ”A few more moments.” Arne said, hearing the footsteps of the peacemakers approaching. @Edema Rue Quote Honestly…write your story? Make it believable, if it’s ridiculous I’ll veto it but it doesn’t really matter to me. 1
Through the Living Heir he/him Posted August 10, 2024 Posted August 10, 2024 @Lotus Blossom The spike speaks into your mind: All right. I’ll give you one moment to decide. Do you want to win, or do you want to die? @Edema Rue The spike speaks to “Corin” as well, seeming like it’s whining. These people are boring. Give me something else to do. Quote I’m back! You don’t honestly need the spike to cause conflict, but I’m happy to help.
Edema Rue she/her Posted August 10, 2024 Author Posted August 10, 2024 3 minutes ago, Dragonheir said: @Lotus Blossom The spike speaks into your mind: All right. I’ll give you one moment to decide. Do you want to win, or do you want to die? @Edema Rue The spike speaks to “Corin” as well, seeming like it’s whining. These people are boring. Give me something else to do. They’ll be dead soon enough. Then a smaller voice. Protect them… Don’t. They don’t have to die. Wait. I’ll give you the signal if something needs to be done.
Mags she/they Posted August 11, 2024 Posted August 11, 2024 (edited) On 8/7/2024 at 8:20 PM, Scars of Hathsin said: Dougella, HG Arena Dougella watches as the bits of cloth and other matter disappear, in an explosion into the other realm that had been shown to her. She laughs nervously, her mind awash with heady adrenaline and something else. It's called investiture, you can consume it through a metaphorical breath. The little being of ink says on her shoulder. Like Breaths used for awakening? Similar. She sheaths the sword that lay forgotten in her hand, and as she does so, notices the glowing mist coming from her skin. Just another side effect, it will go soon. The little being says. "What is your name?" Dougella asks putting her hand up to her shoulder to give him a stable platform. Pigment, HG Arena Pigment stands onto it, shifting his size as he does so, to appear a bit clearer to her. "The name is Pigment" he says looking around at the surroundings. Looks rather different to the Cognitive he muses to himself, taking note of both the people, and objects. He points to Corin. "That is the guy that is asking for bets right?" Dougella nods at him. "Who do you think will win?" Dougella, HG Arena Dougella looks at the thing that called itself Pigment in her palm. Who do I think will win? I don't know She glances at Corin again, noting the indifference in his gaze, and a small amount of pain that was locked behind the stony facade. What are they doing to you? She counts the bets that were made in her head, Mare is down by a bet. She yells across the arena. "I go for Mare" hoping to make the fight more even. '' She looks across the chasm, at the platform which Sharp was on she watches as he seems to contend with mental enemies. What is happening to him. "He is in the process of changing, just like you" Pigment informs her from his resting place in her outstretched hand. She grins, "Are then any more of you?" she asks towards Pigment "Yes" he smiles @J. Magi @Edema Rue Sharp watched this unfold. He relaxed a little, knowing Dougella wasn't in immediate danger anymore. But still, he was faced with his lack of choices. Tinker and Marewell had come closer, and were talking about something. He didn't catch what they'd said. Would they really fight? Would they try to rebel against Corrin? Corrin would just kill them. Sharp couldn't do anything. He couldn't do anything. He couldn't do anything. He couldn't do anything. He couldn't do anything. He couldn't do anything. He couldn't do anything. He couldn't do anything. He couldn't do anything. He couldn't do anything. Sharp tightened his hand around the knife in the pocket of his coat, anxiously wondering if he could hit Corrin with it from here. But then his fingers brushed the pockets other contents. He pulled out the pair of ruby dice. Kryn had filled them with stormlight--investiture Sharp couldn't use--earlier, hoping to use them as makeshift spheres. But Kryn was gone know. They glowed softly under his gaze, and suddenly he had an idea. A stupid idea. Sharp held the dice between his thumb and finger, lifting them over his head. "Hey casino guy! these important?" He tried not to let his nervousness show, but his voice did crack. Maybe they were worth something. Maybe they'd shock Corrin. Maybe they'd stall him. Anything he could do to help, was enough for Sharp. @Edema Rue Quote You mentioned the dice in a flashback, I'm trying to stir up drama. If it doesn't work, or I misunderstood sorry lol 4 hours ago, The Stormfather said: Adris, alleyway ”Zebtir, ready yourself. They’re coming.” Adris said to the nearest Steele. The troupe of six, including Adris, was fanned out in the alley behind him. Himself, a pewterarm, was preemptively burning, as was Tradith, the Steele’s pewterarm. A Soother from the Steele who had given her name as ‘your nightmares’ held two knives at the ready. A Coinshot and a Lurcher, Ashan and Bathri, stood perfectly still, though everyone knew they were as dangerous staying still as they were with a weapon. A seeker, Finis, from the Rusted, as well as Adris’ two actual friends, Arme and Lertie, a tineye and a Smoker, both had small glass daggers. The group, the metalborn of both gangs unified, were prepared for war. ”A few more moments.” Arne said, hearing the footsteps of the peacemakers approaching. @Edema Rue The sound of hard boot falls rang through the alley. Much closer then the peacekeepers. Behind the gathering of gang members and rebels, another group emerged from the buildings shadows. At their head was a tall, sturdy woman. She wore a sleek white blouse and a matching white suit coat over it. On any one else, they wouldn've looked odd with her practical grey trousers and leather boots. Not on her. The coat had a patch on the shoulder. A house coat of arms, made up of a pair of intense silver eyes overlaying a gold coin. An near ancient insignia. No one had worn it in nearly a hundred years. She grinned, perfectly painted lips framing pearly teeth. Her long black hair shifted in the breeze. "What do we have here?" Her voice was girlish but it had an unmistakable edge. "Any army?" Her elegant pale hand tightened on the dueling cane she had leaning against her shoulder. "Are you, by chance, looking for fellows?" The men behind her, a good dozen at least, lowered their weapons. "You aren't the only ones looking for a fight with the so called 'Peace' -keepers tonight!" Her vicious grin tightened. "I am Sharanna Aurum McDonald. Representative of The House. Mind if we join you?" @The Stormfather --------------- The village finally came into view, after what seemed like an endless dirt road. It was smaller then Sharlin had expected. Smaller and dirtier. Sharlin didn't mind, she was small and dirty herself, after all. She double checked the tip in her pocket, her reason for coming. Yes, there were whispers of rebellion here. One of their kids had gotten taken for the games, it seemed. She could work with that. The House could work with that. Sharlin skipped up to the first house, her bag bumping against her back as she did so. She knocked a cheerful little tune into the door, and brushed the dirt off her crest patch on her jacket. The thread it was made of was actually metallic--gold for the coin, silver for the eyes. She'd always wondered who's eyes those were. A tiny, old, dead part of her considered calculating how much it was worth. That doesn't matter, she reminded herself as she waited for an answer from the house, I don't have to worry about that anymore. @The Bookwyrm Quote Alright guys, I hope this works as a jumping off point. Notes: Spoiler -Yes, the description of The House's crest is new, though I've had it in my head for a while now. Just pretend it was there during the threnodite-cyto-smedry era as well. It's a silly aesthetic retcon, I know, but it's also cool. so. -Yes, the items in the crest have lore significance. If you can remember where they're from, your a legend. -Yes, Sharlin isn't on the most recent Mcdonald family tree. She's a brand new character, and I'm working on her as she goes. She'll get a place on the tree soon--don't worry! Spoiler the white coat is also an extremely obscure reference I'm having fun lol Edited August 11, 2024 by J. Magi 1
Edema Rue she/her Posted August 11, 2024 Author Posted August 11, 2024 9 minutes ago, J. Magi said: Sharp watched this unfold. He relaxed a little, knowing Dougella wasn't in immediate danger anymore. But still, he was faced with his lack of choices. Tinker and Marewell had come closer, and were talking about something. He didn't catch what they'd said. Would they really fight? Would they try to rebel against Corrin? Corrin would just kill them. Sharp couldn't do anything. He couldn't do anything. He couldn't do anything. He couldn't do anything. He couldn't do anything. He couldn't do anything. He couldn't do anything. He couldn't do anything. He couldn't do anything. He couldn't do anything. Sharp tightened his hand around the knife in the pocket of his coat, anxiously wondering if he could hit Corrin with it from here. But then his fingers brushed the pockets other contents. He pulled out the pair of ruby dice. Kryn had filled them with stormlight--investiture Sharp couldn't use--earlier, hoping to use them as makeshift spheres. But Kryn was gone know. They glowed softly under his gaze, and suddenly he had an idea. A stupid idea. Sharp held the dice between his thumb and finger, lifting them over his head. "Hey casino guy! these important?" He tried not to let his nervousness show, but his voice did crack. Maybe they were worth something. Maybe they'd shock Corrin. Maybe they'd stall him. Anything he could do to help, was enough for Sharp. @Edema Rue @The Bookwyrm For a brief moment, the mask shatters. Corn suddenly looks young. He looks heartbroken. He looks furious. “Give those back! Give…” his voice cracks. “Please, he never…” then his face hardens. His expression turns bemused. “Why should I care about some silly dice?” Fool. You’re getting in the way. Your friends will be punished for this. You will not touch them. You will NOT TOUCH THEM! Corin turns away, his movements jerky and his face twitching as he’s caught in the internal struggle. “Get out—you must die—don’t hurt them—Fight, tributes.” Corin spat angrily. “Fight. Now.”
Mags she/they Posted August 11, 2024 Posted August 11, 2024 (edited) 6 minutes ago, Edema Rue said: For a brief moment, the mask shatters. Corn suddenly looks young. He looks heartbroken. He looks furious. “Give those back! Give…” his voice cracks. “Please, he never…” then his face hardens. His expression turns bemused. “Why should I care about some silly dice?” Fool. You’re getting in the way. Your friends will be punished for this. You will not touch them. You will NOT TOUCH THEM! Corin turns away, his movements jerky and his face twitching as he’s caught in the internal struggle. “Get out—you must die—don’t hurt them—Fight, tributes.” Corin spat angrily. “Fight. Now.” Sharp's heart sped up--he hadn't expected that to have such an effect. Should he push harder? Would that wake Corin up, or make things worse? He decided to take the chance. There was nothing else to do. "So they are important," He called, loud enough for the entire arena to hear. "Why?" He carelessly threw them in the air and caught them. Sharp hated using triggering Corin as a tactic--there was some flicker of humanity in his reaction--but he was also forcing them into a death tournament. Sharp would use any advantage he was given. Maybe if he got Corinn talking, fighting himself, Tinker and Marewell could do something with the extra time. Edited August 11, 2024 by J. Magi
The Stormfather He/Him Posted August 11, 2024 Posted August 11, 2024 37 minutes ago, J. Magi said: Sharp watched this unfold. He relaxed a little, knowing Dougella wasn't in immediate danger anymore. But still, he was faced with his lack of choices. Tinker and Marewell had come closer, and were talking about something. He didn't catch what they'd said. Would they really fight? Would they try to rebel against Corrin? Corrin would just kill them. Sharp couldn't do anything. He couldn't do anything. He couldn't do anything. He couldn't do anything. He couldn't do anything. He couldn't do anything. He couldn't do anything. He couldn't do anything. He couldn't do anything. He couldn't do anything. Sharp tightened his hand around the knife in the pocket of his coat, anxiously wondering if he could hit Corrin with it from here. But then his fingers brushed the pockets other contents. He pulled out the pair of ruby dice. Kryn had filled them with stormlight--investiture Sharp couldn't use--earlier, hoping to use them as makeshift spheres. But Kryn was gone know. They glowed softly under his gaze, and suddenly he had an idea. A stupid idea. Sharp held the dice between his thumb and finger, lifting them over his head. "Hey casino guy! these important?" He tried not to let his nervousness show, but his voice did crack. Maybe they were worth something. Maybe they'd shock Corrin. Maybe they'd stall him. Anything he could do to help, was enough for Sharp. @Edema Rue The sound of hard boot falls rang through the alley. Much closer then the peacekeepers. Behind the gathering of gang members and rebels, another group emerged from the buildings shadows. At their head was a tall, sturdy woman. She wore a sleek white blouse and a matching white suit coat over it. On any one else, they wouldn've looked odd with her practical grey trousers and leather boots. Not on her. The coat had a patch on the shoulder. A house coat of arms, made up of a pair of intense silver eyes overlaying a gold coin. An near ancient insignia. No one had worn it in nearly a hundred years. She grinned, perfectly painted lips framing pearly teeth. Her long black hair shifted in the breeze. "What do we have here?" Her voice was girlish but it had an unmistakable edge. "Any army?" Her elegant pale hand tightened on the dueling cane she had leaning against her shoulder. "Are you, by chance, looking for fellows?" The men behind her, a good dozen at least, lowered their weapons. "You aren't the only ones looking for a fight with the so called 'Peace' -keepers tonight!" Her vicious grin tightened. "I am Sharanna Aurum McDonald. Representative of The House. Mind if we join you?" @The Stormfather --------------- The village finally came into view, after what seemed like an endless dirt road. It was smaller then Sharlin had expected. Smaller and dirtier. Sharlin didn't mind, she was small and dirty herself, after all. She double checked the tip in her pocket, her reason for coming. Yes, there were whispers of rebellion here. One of their kids had gotten taken for the games, it seemed. She could work with that. The House could work with that. Sharlin skipped up to the first house, her bag bumping against her back as she did so. She knocked a cheerful little tune into the door, and brushed the dirt off her crest patch on her jacket. The thread it was made of was actually metallic--gold for the coin, silver for the eyes. She'd always wondered who's eyes those were. A tiny, old, dead part of her wondered how much it was worth. That doesn't matter, she reminded herself as she waited for an answer from the house, I don't have to worry about that anymore. @The Bookwyrm The Steeles and the Rusted quickly lower their weapons. Adris steps forward. “I’d happily join any form of resistance against the capital. But first, I do believe we have some scum to deal with.” Flaring pewter, Adris’ fist cracked against the head of one Peacekeeper, and the Steeles and Rusted burst into motion. From every rooftop, every alleyway, every window and crack, there was coins launched, daggers thrown and a whole two gunshots. (From the same gun. They only had one.) The three dozen crooks and criminals, beggars and thieves, soldiers and assassins, all unified struck forwards. A formation (great choice of word upcoming) formed. A wedge with Adris at the head, the metalborn fanned out behind him with Gerad, the Rusted sharpshooter standing behind them. There was an empty place in the formation, one of the man they wished to save. The fight began. HG Arena Whispers floated on the wind. Like the shade that his ancestor had become. Formless. Yet there. Mark stood tall and swept his blade in front of him. He could feel something, deep inside himself. The familiar pattern of battle faded into him, and his Blade shifted into the dagger he was all-too familiar with using. His eyes shut, and he could picture the scene. The Rusted, fighting. The battle between gangs that had been a long time coming. Except… something was off in his vision. These were no Steeles he was fighting. It was something else. Something he did not know. Then the killer opened his eyes.
Mags she/they Posted August 11, 2024 Posted August 11, 2024 4 minutes ago, The Stormfather said: The Steeles and the Rusted quickly lower their weapons. Adris steps forward. “I’d happily join any form of resistance against the capital. But first, I do believe we have some scum to deal with.” Flaring pewter, Adris’ fist cracked against the head of one Peacekeeper, and the Steeles and Rusted burst into motion. From every rooftop, every alleyway, every window and crack, there was coins launched, daggers thrown and a whole two gunshots. (From the same gun. They only had one.) The three dozen crooks and criminals, beggars and thieves, soldiers and assassins, all unified struck forwards. A formation (great choice of word upcoming) formed. A wedge with Adris at the head, the metalborn fanned out behind him with Gerad, the Rusted sharpshooter standing behind them. There was an empty place in the formation, one of the man they wished to save. The fight began. Sharanna's eyes narrowed. "Of course. Allow us to aid you." Her men moved forward in tight, militaristic lines. They raised their own weapons. Sharana spun her first dueling cane with a flourish and pulled out the other one from her belt. The House members dove in, joining the fight.
Edema Rue she/her Posted August 11, 2024 Author Posted August 11, 2024 3 minutes ago, J. Magi said: Sharp's heart sped up--he hadn't expected that to have such an effect. Should he push harder? Would that wake Corin up, or make things worse? He decided to take the chance. There was nothing else to do. "So they are important," He called, loud enough for the entire arena to hear. "Why?" He carelessly threw them in the air and caught them. Sharp hated using triggering Corin as a tactic--there was some flicker of humanity in his reaction--but he was also forcing them into a death tournament. Sharp would use any advantage he was given. Maybe if he got Corinn talking, fighting himself, Tinker and Marewell could do something with the extra time. Quote My poor baby boy “They mean—everything—nothing to me.” The jerky movements grew more violent. “They were a gift—from a friend—I’ll kill him, boy, and then I’ll kill you, and they’ll all be left without your protection—give them back!” Corin took a deep, shuddering breath. A tiny voice, one he hadn’t heard since entering the arena, whispered to him. You can’t let these people die to protect your own. I won’t let them kill him! If you let them die, you’re as bad as they are. I have to protect him. He’s all I have left. You have honor. I can’t stop it. I’m powerless here. Not powerless. ”You are weak. All of you, too weak. This games must have a victor, and one of you are—please. They’ll kill him. They—” Corin swallowed. “You need—to find—a way out.” He’ll die. Maybe not. They’ll all die. You don’t know that— I said I would protect them! I made promises, Oaths! I’m proud of you, Corin. Though it was hard to tell from a distance, Corin’s eyes seemed to mist over. Then it faded, and he continued calling for bets and a fight. *** “Corin,” Quinn said, his voice breaking the silence of the closed bar. “Why don’t you have a family?” Corin blinked, startled at the question. “I used to.” Quinn nodded. He looked almost wise, except for the smudge of something green on his cheek. “Don’t you want one?” Corin smiled, shoving away the memories of a brother he’d once had. “I got one. You boys.” Quinn blinked, and Corin ruffled his hair. “You’ll get it someday. For now…keep your feet off my tables!” Quinn squealed as Corin shoved him to the floor, running away. Corin chased after, their laughter filling the dark room. This is all the family I need.
Mags she/they Posted August 11, 2024 Posted August 11, 2024 (edited) 7 minutes ago, Edema Rue said: “They mean—everything—nothing to me.” The jerky movements grew more violent. “They were a gift—from a friend—I’ll kill him, boy, and then I’ll kill you, and they’ll all be left without your protection—give them back!” Corin took a deep, shuddering breath. A tiny voice, one he hadn’t heard since entering the arena, whispered to him. You can’t let these people die to protect your own. I won’t let them kill him! If you let them die, you’re as bad as they are. I have to protect him. He’s all I have left. You have honor. I can’t stop it. I’m powerless here. Not powerless. ”You are weak. All of you, too weak. This games must have a victor, and one of you are—please. They’ll kill him. They—” Corin swallowed. “You need—to find—a way out.” He’ll die. Maybe not. They’ll all die. You don’t know that— I said I would protect them! I made promises, Oaths! I’m proud of you, Corin. Though it was hard to tell from a distance, Corin’s eyes seemed to mist over. Then it faded, and he continued calling for bets and a fight. *** “Corin,” Quinn said, his voice breaking the silence of the closed bar. “Why don’t you have a family?” Corin blinked, startled at the question. “I used to.” Quinn nodded. He looked almost wise, except for the smudge of something green on his cheek. “Don’t you want one?” Corin smiled, shoving away the memories of a brother he’d once had. “I got one. You boys.” Quinn blinked, and Corin ruffled his hair. “You’ll get it someday. For now…keep your feet off my tables!” Quinn squealed as Corin shoved him to the floor, running away. Corin chased after, their laughter filling the dark room. This is all the family I need. It had worked. Well, only for a little, but still. Sharp kept pushing. "You can have them back! I'll give them to you. It's that simple." He took a shakey breath, unsure if Corin--the human part of him at least--could still her him. "Postpone the duel, I'll come give them to you." Quote I'm sorryyyyyy Edited August 11, 2024 by J. Magi
Through the Living Hope Posted August 11, 2024 Posted August 11, 2024 52 minutes ago, Edema Rue said: For a brief moment, the mask shatters. Corn suddenly looks young. He looks heartbroken. He looks furious. “Give those back! Give…” his voice cracks. “Please, he never…” then his face hardens. His expression turns bemused. “Why should I care about some silly dice?” Fool. You’re getting in the way. Your friends will be punished for this. You will not touch them. You will NOT TOUCH THEM! Corin turns away, his movements jerky and his face twitching as he’s caught in the internal struggle. “Get out—you must die—don’t hurt them—Fight, tributes.” Corin spat angrily. “Fight. Now.” She didn’t move. 17 minutes ago, Edema Rue said: “They mean—everything—nothing to me.” The jerky movements grew more violent. “They were a gift—from a friend—I’ll kill him, boy, and then I’ll kill you, and they’ll all be left without your protection—give them back!” Corin took a deep, shuddering breath. A tiny voice, one he hadn’t heard since entering the arena, whispered to him. You can’t let these people die to protect your own. I won’t let them kill him! If you let them die, you’re as bad as they are. I have to protect him. He’s all I have left. You have honor. I can’t stop it. I’m powerless here. Not powerless. ”You are weak. All of you, too weak. This games must have a victor, and one of you are—please. They’ll kill him. They—” Corin swallowed. “You need—to find—a way out.” He’ll die. Maybe not. They’ll all die. You don’t know that— I said I would protect them! I made promises, Oaths! I’m proud of you, Corin. Though it was hard to tell from a distance, Corin’s eyes seemed to mist over. Then it faded, and he continued calling for bets and a fight. *** “Corin,” Quinn said, his voice breaking the silence of the closed bar. “Why don’t you have a family?” Corin blinked, startled at the question. “I used to.” Quinn nodded. He looked almost wise, except for the smudge of something green on his cheek. “Don’t you want one?” Corin smiled, shoving away the memories of a brother he’d once had. “I got one. You boys.” Quinn blinked, and Corin ruffled his hair. “You’ll get it someday. For now…keep your feet off my tables!” Quinn squealed as Corin shoved him to the floor, running away. Corin chased after, their laughter filling the dark room. This is all the family I need. So we’re not the only ones they’re using as pawns… 2
Edema Rue she/her Posted August 11, 2024 Author Posted August 11, 2024 4 minutes ago, J. Magi said: It had worked. Well, only for a little, but still. Sharp kept pushing. "You can have them back! I'll give them to you. It's that simple." He took a shakey breath, unsure if Corin--the human part of him at least--could still her him. "Postpone the duel, I'll come give them to you." Quote I’m literally like bawling but also cackling he’s so broken— oh also the bold isn’t another part of him, it’s someone from the capital who’s possessing him “I don’t want—I don’t need them.” Corin swallowed. “Find a way out,” he whispered. “I’ll try—for as long as—” He retreated into the darkness. Out of sight, the battle resumed. Stop this foolishness. No.
Mags she/they Posted August 11, 2024 Posted August 11, 2024 Just now, Edema Rue said: Quote oh also the bold isn’t another part of him, it’s someone from the capital who’s possessing him Quote Yeah, I assumed that, but Sharp wouldn't know that 1 minute ago, Edema Rue said: “I don’t want—I don’t need them.” Corin swallowed. “Find a way out,” he whispered. “I’ll try—for as long as—” He retreated into the darkness. Out of sight, the battle resumed. Stop this foolishness. No. "You-you sure?" Sharp was loosing his grip. How was he supposed to fight? He was trapped on a tiny stone pillar. Shaken, he put the dice back in his pocket. At least he'd escalated whatever was happening in Corin's mind. He'd said he'd do his best, Sharp would have to count on that.
The Stormfather He/Him Posted August 11, 2024 Posted August 11, 2024 Quote Just to clarify can we say that some peacekeepers have rifles and some are kinda like hazekillers? 1
Edema Rue she/her Posted August 11, 2024 Author Posted August 11, 2024 1 hour ago, The Stormfather said: Quote For sure!
The Bookwyrm he/him Posted August 11, 2024 Posted August 11, 2024 2 hours ago, J. Magi said: The village finally came into view, after what seemed like an endless dirt road. It was smaller then Sharlin had expected. Smaller and dirtier. Sharlin didn't mind, she was small and dirty herself, after all. She double checked the tip in her pocket, her reason for coming. Yes, there were whispers of rebellion here. One of their kids had gotten taken for the games, it seemed. She could work with that. The House could work with that. Sharlin skipped up to the first house, her bag bumping against her back as she did so. She knocked a cheerful little tune into the door, and brushed the dirt off her crest patch on her jacket. The thread it was made of was actually metallic--gold for the coin, silver for the eyes. She'd always wondered who's eyes those were. A tiny, old, dead part of her considered calculating how much it was worth. That doesn't matter, she reminded herself as she waited for an answer from the house, I don't have to worry about that anymore. A young man, probably in his early to mid twenties, tall and with a sturdy build, opened the door. He wore sturdy leather clothing and had a simple rifle with a wooden stock strapped to his back, and had a bandolier filled with vials of various colored spores. "It's you," he said. "Come in." The house was small; it looked only like a central living area, with some bedding in one corner and a fireplace in the center. No extra rooms to speak of. Despite its tiny size, it was crowded with men and women dressed similarly to the one who had opened the door; protective clothing, some rifles, pistols, a few bows and crossbows. A scant few had vials of metal or bracers on their arms, but almost all of them had vials of Aether spores. They looked dirty, downtrodden, but nowhere near defeated. There was a low conversation going on, and it was clear these people had spirit. Jokes were told, laugher existed; despite the air of solemnity about the gathering, these people were happy. And determined. In the corner, near the fireplace, were three children; two girls that looked to be in their teenage years, and a young boy that was about ten. Despite their youth, and despite the fire in their eyes, it was clear they had been through a lot in the past while. A woman, still young but clearly an adult, sat near them. She was clearly carrying a baby, by her large belly. Probably due soon. Leading the discussion between the warriors were two older people; a man and a woman. The way they sat together might've led Sharlin to realize they were husband and wife; if she payed attention, she'd notice their features in the faces of the three children, and the young woman. The man looked up as Sharlin entered. "So," he said, and the conversation filling the room died down. "You're the representative of the House?" Quote We might have to say that this part all happened in the past, if we want this group to be the ones who rescue them. ----------------------- Tinker gazed up at Corin, his arms still around Marewill. Something's wrong...he doesn't have possession of himself. He felt his fists tighten. But what am I supposed to do?
Lotus Blossom she/her Posted August 11, 2024 Posted August 11, 2024 Quote *cackles in revolution* Amyra dropped low on her platform, craning to see the battlefield in a better light. Her teeth grit. It doesn't matter who wins. Mark and I bet on the same tribute. So either both of us are advantaged. Or both of us are disadvantaged. .....or, they don't even pit us up against one another. For some reason, the thought of killing Mark was a clear image in her mind- the slice of his throat, the slit of his chest, the gaping wounds torn open, the blood flooding the ring- and it made her stomach churn with nausea. Bile built in the back of her throat, her eyes fluttered, suddenly too heavy to hold them open, her mind pounded on tempo as blood filled her skull. She was dizzy and over-heating and all she wanted to do was fall and close her eyes and disappear back to the casinos where she had so much power, so much confidence. She hated the idea of killing him, fulfilling the dream that haunted her every moment, with so much burning rage that she felt sick. Had she really cared for this poor tribute so much? She had once thought that she would never care for anything- anyone. How foolish she was. Perhaps her life wasn't just about setting the hopeless free. Perhaps her life's path wasn't set on unlocking the chains of the wretched. Perhaps she wasn't just a Willshaper, but also a person of her own, a person who's life could wind and twist in unknown ways, a person who wasn't stuck and trapped in bets after bets... A person who could care about someone, about something, more than a game of cards and a glass of alcohol. A person who could love someone else, and die for it. Or kill for it. No one was coming to save her now. Everyone had hated her, or left her in the dust. But Kayra was right. She would've done the same, if one of her connections was trapped here on the dirt of the hunger games arena. She would've done the same. 1
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