The Discussion

[18:25] Walter Docro says, "..."
[18:25] Yoshiko Taiyang asks, "Did you wait long..?"
[18:25] Anastasia ven Astor says, "...."
[18:25] Olivia Docro exclaims, "He beat me with a newspaper because he was tired of waiting!"
[18:26] Walter Docro says, "Not at all, my dear."
[18:26] Anastasia ven Astor asks, "'My dear'?"
[18:26] Yoshiko pays a glance at Olivia. She kindly waves.
(Yoshiko Taiyang)
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[18:26] Walter Docro says, "Oh - Yoshiko. Have you not told her about /us/? My heart..."
[18:26] Walter Docro exclaims, "I am devastated!"
[18:26] Olivia waves back. A variety of expensive bangles and bracelets jingle as she does.
(Olivia Docro)
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[18:26] Yoshiko Taiyang says, "Had to rush."
[18:27] Walter Docro says, "Worry not. Your endeavor has been swift enough."
[18:27] Walter Docro says, "I have only went through thirty six cigarettes since you left."
[18:28] Yoshiko Taiyang says, "Anything to enchance the flames that you breathe."
[18:29] She stepped to the side now, eyeballing the Imperator with a look of pure unamusement and also a smattering of disdain. She was quiet, unsure where to begin or even what to do.

Part of her own instincts told her to attack, attack, attack.

But she restrained herself.
(Anastasia ven Astor)
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[18:38] Walter idly chuckles at Yoshiko's cunning jest, seemingly being far more regarding of the kitsune retainer's presence than he is of the Lightbringer herself. A joyful beam lain across the kingpin's features in response.

"Glad to see you've traveled safely, love." Flirtatiously, as if to subliminally rub it in Anastasia's face. A curtain of nicotine projects itself past his narrowly gaped lips once he does speak, subtly obstructing view between pair and pair.

"Ah, allow me to introduce her." With some semblance of pride, surprisingly. The imperator gestures to the shorter, lukewarm-faced kitsune with the cap. "This is Olivia. My daughter - I think." A hand looms over the hat, patting down and ruffling her hair with it.

Her progenitor, for whatever reason, was still a secret. Even to him. From the looks of it however, Walter has taken enough of a liking to the youth to address her as her descendant formally. Albeit with his trademark ambivalence.

Jades bolt to the lightbringer shortly, seemingly bearing much less warmth. The predative nature of his stare pokes through subliminally, even if not in full flare.

"I take it you're here to discuss your migration?"

Aloofly, as he idly plucks his cancer stick from his lips.
(Walter Docro)
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[18:46] There's a brief glance paid to Yoshiko when Walter used the term love, a raised eyebrow being offered and nothing more before her sights were set upon the Imperator once more. The smoke from his lips does draw a disgusted nose wrinkle from her but she says naught on the topic regarding his... Habits.

There's a look offered to Olivia, and then it's taken away her focus once more shifting to the man she despised.

His predative stare was met with one of an innate stoicism given by the Lightbringer; in this moment she was a spitting image of her late mother. His stare did not bother her in the least bit and her head rose just a bit higher as a result. The message was clear. Superiority.

"Yoshiko here convinced me to speak with yourself and Tanya. I have no impressions of migrating here, as my people are in Myllenoris." She explained flatly. "But she desired us to speak. As she's my close friend? Here I am." She explained with a wave of her hand to gesture to the Kitsune at her side.

Her oldest living friend.
(Anastasia ven Astor)
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[18:59] "Ah, so quick to deliver a response."

A smile breaks like dawn upon the kitsune's mien. Something about her stern, unflappable façade of pride brings about this semblance of humor about him. Something about her attempt at discipline and pride seems brutally hollow in contrast, it shows in every fiber of her being. In how her chin raised comes into dissonance with her claim.

"Your people are in Myllenoris? My, my. I'm happy to see that you're fixated on protecting your values." And though the charade of sticking up to her mother's vibrant imperiousness could have deceived some into trusting this sense of security. It would never permeate past the gundog emperor's stare.

"So much so that you'd rather mobilize all of your kinsmen into the home of the same doctrine that saw you killed by the tens of thousands." His dominance becomes notably more transparent, now. "And you'd say it with your chin raised high. That you would prefer to become a pet to the bane of grace to your men, and subject them to war further, than return home and work yourselves up from the ground.

Color me impressed!"

An idle, provoking shrug of the imperator. Anastasia's brother's sword rests at his hip, whereas her mother's lays comfortably at his broad back sheathe. The meager born, covered in royal arms.

"And to think I was going to talk about my plans regarding banishing free transit of demonkind. How sad. Not even going to give yourselves a fighting chance - whilst bending the knee all the same?"
(Walter Docro)
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[19:06] "Assumptions, Walter." She said sternly all at once in response to his words. "You assume we bend the knee; but that is anything but the truth. A united front against that demonic threat and those who would see us bend the knee and more is needed now more than ever." She reminded him with a shake of her head.

"I know what they did. I'm more than aware of what they did and what they're responsible for. But the thing you forget is they too are aware of what happened all those years ago... And they're more than ready and willing to make up for it. Alexios? He works tirelessly to do so." She explained.

Perhaps Anastasia's seemingly cold appearance was simply a way to hide her own insecurity, by channeling that stern emotionless stare. The perceived superiority by any and all who looked at her and didn't truly know the real her.

"Are you quite sure your idea of banishing the free transit of demonkind from Osrona's walls isn't just an attempt to win people over to your side, Walter? How is one expected to trust that which has flip flopped more times than a coin tossed during a carnival?"

She leaned forward - just a bit.

"Give me a reason to trust those words, Walter."
(Anastasia ven Astor)
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[19:29] Yoshiko just watched as the exchange between Anastasia and Walter grew. She only hoped it didn't make one of them snap as they were here as told before like adults and discussing like them, too. She only felt bad for the poor Olivia near Walter to watch this but it was a growing experience for them, she thought.

But just after they spoke, Yoshiko would break her silence between the two.

"If I may.. I'd like to give you a slight reason on why you should Anastasia..

We have a better chance of winning this war. Especially since those of Osrona were kind enough to withdraw themselves. Plus, allowing Nobles to return here freely but with a catch. Sadly, there aren't many nobles left to really have this offer go through but you're a still notable one, Anastasia. I do.. respect your decisions, though..."

She turns towards Walter as she explained. Yoshiko was a women of kindness, respect, and understanding. She wasn't one to hold a grudge no matter what a single person did. She followed her tenets sole-heartedly.

".. If the Teraphim are making up for what they did, I see no serious drawback. As Anastasia said before, they're aware of their mishaps and faults and everyone is flawed in their own way but they can correct themselves if they choose to do..

If I'm not mistaken... Is that not what the Osronan Republic is doing now..?

I'm afraid the only ones who aren't abiding by this concept is Theria alone. They've only repeated what they've done in the past... But they can change. Everyone can change and everyone can be understood. We shouldn't dwell too much into the past or our future will only continue to repeat itself..

… That's just what I believe."
(Yoshiko Taiyang)
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[19:41] Walter seems to gripe with her last claims. Truly, he was one with a keen eye for acts of deception, be them from his behalf, as well as others. It was only product of one critical act of divergence: He had been deceived the most.

Perhaps, the world had simply made the presence of the gundog sellsword amidst the Myllenorian forces, even as early as that fateful day. Even as early as the starfall bridge takeover.

His terms had been violated. Word meant nothing. Such was the world that he grew in, the one he had been forced to adapt to.

"And you would believe them instead!?" Finally, a more vulnerable grunt chants back at the lightbringer. In spite of his bravado, more than just a spoonful of humanity and flexibility daggers through his hard-edged exterior.

"Them, who promised me that their efforts would be focused naught on the weak, on the victims of famine!?"There and then, the martyr leader resurrects himself. Trauma, a wound still seared, flaring open to whomever dared poke at it.

"Them, who coerced me into marching under the pretext of toppling the crown, only for their forces to gut through child and woman alike!? Would you attribute all of it to a single harbinger!?"

An arcanium sole stomps down on the floorboards, resonating with the weight of an elephant.

"This Alexios can try to sell himself as whatever he so choses. But even he is not immune to the fundamental mistakes of his worship."

He huffs. Finn, in his commended pursuit of truth, had also failed Walter that day.

Somehow, he meets Anastasia's with the same open heart he had once used on a numbed High Lady.

"To them, humans will never be their equal. Why is it that they rest guised and protected by the Vale, whilst your men have been relegated to the outer rim of their cottages?

Would you truly think their acts of kindness to be no more than condescendence and herd shepherding? And you'd rather continue to fight that war on your poor conditions, even at the expense of your people, within their terms, instead of finding solace in returning to the city that saw you given birth?"

(Walter Docro)
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[19:43] Walter Docro says, "to be more than*"
[19:55] Eventually, her loyal friend speaks her mind. Anastasia turns to regard Yoshiko with an indifference silence on her visage, debating her words carefully. Anastasia understood perhaps more than anyone present that Yoshiko held an unshakeable kindness, understanding and respect for everyone sans for those who steeped themselves in darkness.

She held a wisdom, as befitting her race's origins. The wit of a celestial fox.

So her words were not merely discarded as folly.

Eventually her gaze shifted back to Walter, staring at him in silence as he seemed to change from that smugness of his into something more vulnerable. Admitting the mistakes against him just as well.

"... I believe them because they've made honest efforts to help." She said, solemnly. "Alexios traveled about as a doctor; and when Aeliana attempted to give command of our people to him… He refused, and insisted she pick up her birthrate. To lead our people." She added, inhaling deeply before her eyes dipped shut. She remembered her own words to her niece quite well enough - You can't run from who you are. Eventually does her gaze open and she shook her head.

"After what happened in Osrona…" There's a trailing her words, as if Anastasia didn't want to remember that terrible, terrible night. When she was awakened and forced to evacuate from a burning city; just a child, with no parents. She didn't want to remember. But she steeled herself. "They have not gone out to butcher anyone." She said, pointedly. Odin. "They have not engaged in war except for those who harbor darkness and Demons. The past is the past; and while we should always remember history in order to not repeat it, there is merit in also forgiving those who earnestly work to make a difference going forward and who work tirelessly to mend those mistakes." She admitted.

Her gaze was averted towards Olivia now, regarding the smaller girl quietly before a sigh escaped her lips.

"They want to enslave humankind - beastkin, it does not matter, Walter." She said, staring a proverbial hole through the young girl before eventually her gaze ripped away from her, and landed back upon the Imperator. "Do you want that for your daughter? To have experiments thrust upon her, because you refused to take a stand against those who would see even you fall in line behind them?"

"The Teraphim are moving into the Vale to provide housing for my people, and I cannot think of a greater sacrifice than willingly moving from your home into another one in order to welcome others. So no - Walter. You may consider me a fool, but I do not think their acts of kindness are anything but that. The desire to work together to make sure those who come after us aresafe."

There's a hand that waves, out towards the door of the building itself.

"I can find solace in returning to the city when the constant reminder of those who took what remained of my family is within high positions in this very city...? Who took people I loved from me?" She questioned. Vulnerable words spoken by the typically aloof Lightbringer; raw emotion welling within her face at that moment.

"Every single fibre in my being is telling me to strike you down for what you did. As payback for Odin and Atlas as well - but I'm not fool enough to try within a city where you command the troops." There's a pause, a brief glance offering to Yoshiko before she turned back. "I would not disrespect Yoshiko when she brought me here for peace out of anything else."
(Anastasia ven Astor)
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[20:38] This wasn't a moment for Yoshiko to really speak up. She had this discussion arrangement for the both of them and not herself entirely. Of course she would pitch in here and there to give her thought on the matter. Especially since tensions were at an all time high.

But it did seem to Yoshiko that Anastasia was at least keeping her mental in check. She knew that Anastasia wanted to grip her Dragon Slayer the very moment she laid eyes on Walter. However, those hands appeared to rest near her side. Albeit, taut.

Walter made good points and so did Anastasia. Yoshiko's gaze only fluttered between the two in silence. She was calm, as one who possessed a light within her should be.

She was mild every situation she was in. There was always a warm pastoral feel about her presence.

"I'm glad that you found it in your heart to refrain from reaching for Balmung, Anastasia.. A Lightbringer that cannot hold their emotions is not a Lightbringer at all in my opinion..

But... I fail to have anything to add. My mind is empty but what will be the final verdict I wonder when this all comes to an end?

The reason I came here was to insist on having Anastasia communicate on the offer that was suggested and put down for Osrona. I expected the unexpected and knew tension was going to grow if the two met face-to-face... I would have not done so if I didn't realize this.

But disagreements and agreements are only made when it is discussed between both parties and I'm at least grateful that is how it has been going so far.

… Do you both agree?"

Her eyes gloomy, flickered between the two giving them both her equal attention. "If anything.. I would rather you both in good hands of your respected establishments. To live and prosper amongst your people. History can be renewed by making a better future. However... those of Theria are making that troublesome.

I believe it is time to make a change.. I just hope instead of this we can be dedicated to do so," she voices.
(Yoshiko Taiyang)
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[21:04] Though for an instance Walter seems to lose his cool, it devolves naught in an ominous spreading of dread, as was usual from him. In fact, ever since the clockwork heart had replaced a piece of his humanity, the kitsune's temperament rarely spiked up with nudity. Often, the entire atmosphere around him would warp and be syphoned of its naturality and color.

Yet, griping with Anastasia had been different. Unlike his otherworldly, serpent-like patterns of seduction, smugness and oppression, this seems naught to be a one sided ordeal of manipulation.

The disagreement between them both seems legitimate and symmetrical. Walter's concern and hurt ego ring not in grand notes, but monophonic wails apt to hear from a mortal.

"Tss…" He seems to simmer down. Not via virtue of oppression, but actual distress. "The same could be said about you all. The same could be said about Aschea's ambassadors. Alexander and Odin destroyed my family, too. I was merely a vehicle of that same karma. War is hel, the moment you step into the battlefield, you're bound to nothing else than fate."

Perhaps, those same ripples would echo back to take what was his once more.

"Tarian was what it was. I was protecting my interests, my estate and my family. I'm finished with everything I set out to do in that battlefield. I plan naught to instrumentalize Theria or the Coven's bravado any further. But, these are simply words - it matters not if they mean nothing to you."

"I killed neither Odin or Atlas. I killed Del. I killed Alexander. Their deaths were swift and mostly painless - perhaps too much so for their baggage of sins." Walter's demise would likely not be as forgiving, were it to come, for he was aware in every step of the way of his own undoing. "Such is war. Such is law. If you fail to make peace with it, and instead choose to heed the call ofuntamed cholera, then you'd be no less uncivilized than Misha."

Surprisingly, Yoshiko is heeded to. There's something soothing about the stance she's taken. Even the overbearing imperator can vibrate in that same frequency, even if complementarily. There was no point in fighting.

Another cigarette lit, another piece of mind. He knows Anastasia knows best, he's betting on it.

"But, surely that's not you. Let this be our agreement, then. You, as well as your kinsmen, acknowledge Osrona as mine via your reluctance to reclaim your right to live here. And as such, no efforts to take it from my grasp will be carried out from here on out. Permanently, effective as of today. This extends to Myllenoris.

In exchange. We'll withdraw from the pact of beasts, vow not to bear arms in the war of the last laugh. There's nothing to be gained from appeasing the interests of demons, we can agree on that much."

Was it a surprise? Walter's idea had always been to keep them as tightly leashed pets. Perhaps, his agenda would remain in a very similar vein. Had it ever not?

"At least, we can be consistent with our resolution from this conversation."
(Walter Docro)
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[21:12] Walter unzips.
(Walter Docro)
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[21:18] Yoshiko's words were true - perhaps the day that Atlas had died, and when Tyranny had come up and spoke those fabled words was the day she had truly become a Lightbringer.

Bad year, Anastasia?

There's a sharp inhale from the Astor as her gaze swept to her friend.

"... I agree." She relented, albeit hesitantly. The idea that disagreements and agreements could only be had when discussed between both parties was a fair point and eventually she'd look back to Walter.

"I'm not here to debate on whether or not my brothers destroyed your family, Walter. But Odin was not responsible for any perceived destruction. He was innocent." She defended; she could not wholly defend Alexander's actions. Not here, if they wanted to move forward in any such way. "You killed good and kind people regardless. But you're right in that it was war." She conceded that. For who else wouldunderstand the misery of the battlefield and war besides someone who had been trained rigorously since childhood for such a thing?

But, when the time came for them to strike an agreement...? Anastasia shook her head. For who was she to make an agreement of such magnitude without her Queen? When she knew Aeliana would refuse, and Alexander would turn over in his grave.

"No." She said simply. She traced her steps forward, stepping ever closer to the chain-smoking Imperator. "That isn't the agreement, Walter." She said. Never once had she addressed him as his title, for to her? He did not deserve as such. "It would be remiss of me to agree to let you control my childhood home - my own birthright - with your own two..." She trailed off, stopping herself from using the apt term she wanted to use. Greasy. "... Hands. I do not acknowledge that Osrona is yours. Not now, notever." She said.

She drew ever closer, beginning to pace about.

"You'll withdraw from the pact of beasts not because of some stupid agreement; but because it's the smart thing to do for everyone that is not a Demon." She reminded him, gently. "You will vow not to bear arms in this upcoming battle, and that includes Misha as well." She said, turning to him to set those emerald optics on him. Misha had taken enough from her. From her people.

"There is absolutely nothing to be gained from appeasing Demons except for the insane thought process that they would view you as their equal once they conquer everything and expect those who survive to kneel."
(Anastasia ven Astor)
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[21:30] To her lengthy, zealous response? Walter blows a cloud. To him, Anastasia had missed the point completely.

"Or what? You'll all die faster?"

He shrugs, idly dismissive of a far less flexible response. This very mindset, to him, had marked the end of Old Osrona. The same unwavering drive that had seen Serea die, Alexander lose all that was rightfully his. Every innocent lose their lives.

"I'll do what I want. You can't stop me. You can only convince me to consider otherwise."

Eyebrows raise. Walter sighs, they had failed to identify his leverage.

"No one's ever claimed my view of the world to be such.

But demonkind is hardly an infinite source of fuel. You and them will wear one other out in battle."

Meditatively, he puffs on smoke. An interesting scenario to read into.

"Where will that leave me? With the opportunity to turn this whole continent under my heel with minor effort?

Have you ever considered that? What if I simply chose to stay on the sidelines while you all continue to experience the horror that is war? Would being shielded by our revenant embrace in labor not be wiser?

Do you trust demonkind to be more clever than myself?"

He chuckles.

"You have no leverage, Anastasia. At least Sethon knew to read best into where he stood. You'd rather run in blind? Keep your wits about you."
(Walter Docro)
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[21:46] There was a stop of those oppressive metal boots against the carpeted flooring, as the Lightbringer paused at the Imperator's statement.

You can't stop me.

"You sound like a small child rebelling against their parents." She commented towards his statement, her head dipping into a cant. Her voice shifted into something akin to a small mock, even here in Walter's 'home turf', "You can't stop me - that's what you sound like," She said, the tone dropped for her usual flat and dry tone once more.

"You expect me to kneel to you in exchange for my people being safe. Alexander would turn over in his grave if I did so - so would Odin." She said, though there was a little thought to that. Would Odin truly do so, if it meant their people were safe guarded from calamity? Odin had always kept the safety of their people at the forefront of his mind, after all.

"You could very well swoop in and pick up the pieces after we war ourselves to death. That's true." She said. Once more, she began to move, she brushed past him and his chain-smoke with relatively ease, hands at her sides as she paced. Back and forth, to spin upon her heel and repeat the process.

"But even if people opt to migrate here and join you to be safe guarded, how do you know the Demons won't turn on you...? Mmm? They could very well conquer the Vale and then since Nysea is abandoned, they'll set their sights on the next closest thing..." There's a pause, her steps having brought her in front of the hulking Kitsune, and there a finger was lifted to prod against his chest.

"You."

Her hand pulled away as she had made her point, and she shortly thereafter returned to her own pacing.

"Demons are capable growing to the point where they take on human forms - I honestly don't discredit those filthy monsters of having the capability to be more clever than you."

There's a heavy sigh that falls from her as he mentioned the fact she lacked leverage and he once more mentioned Sethon.

"... Agreements are the result of a compromise, Walter. I am..." She grit her teeth; there was a tense look offered to Yoshiko and then back to him. "I am trying here, with you." She said.
(Anastasia ven Astor)
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[21:46] "Hm."

Yoshiko continues to keep her silence when the two bicker and quack at each other. For a moment she felt as if she should've butted in but then she kept her lips closed. When these two specifics were talking like this, it could only go in one direction. So, Yoshiko was patient in having her to turn to talk.

It wouldn't be now.

Seeing as things were getting closer to a verdict. Their disagreements were still there floating around like bubbles that suddenly popped after the other spoke. Each offer thrown down and each word spat with such ferocity.

There was a keen eye kept on the Astor. Her steps were analyzed and so was her very stance. Gauging at what she would next. The same was for Walter but less so. Yoshiko found something that was similar for the both of them. They were both loose bolts in the past but it seems something has changed them to where they'd less burst out. The Taiyang didn't know what it was for Walter but for Anastasia? It was the Fox herself.

Either way, Yoshiko kept her silence for the time being.

"I suppose it'd be best if I just watch... While I'm here nothing could really go wrong."
(Yoshiko Taiyang)
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[21:58] Aethern walked through the door of the dojo, expecting to see some adventurers training yet as he passed the doorstep his heart sunk. The man wearing all black. The infamous one, presumably having a standoff.

Romulus stared at the trio completely dumbfounded yet for some reason not bolting through the door. He was simply idly watching and listening to the man's speech, feeling cold chills go down his spine.

The way he acted. The way he was unbelievably full of himself. The way he underestimated demons. The way he was playing with the powers beyond human understanding... It made Romulus sick.

'So all the rumours were true.' - the young man thought.

He felt droplets of sweat, realizing he just heard things his ears propably shouldn't witness. Selena. He had to tell her. The Osrona was the real danger to them. And then his gaze moved to the blonde woman.

Aethern took a step back, his breath quieter than a whisper. He was backing of like a cat, not daring to make a noise. One step. Two steps. Three... Almost there. Almost free from this deathtrap...

The silence has been pierced. His heart stopped. His feet were immedietely pierced by the spikes of coldness. His fingers went numb. The floorboard. The flat wooden plank betrayed him. There was no way they didn't hear it.

He went pale right then and there, just praying that everyone will just ignore his presence.
(Romulus Aethern)
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[22:14] More general lackadaisicalness, albeit feigned, sits comfortably in his reaction.

"Rolling in their graves. Yes. They're dead, we killed them. Their failure to comply was the deterrent, I thought that much was clear." In general smugness and arrogance. Even lacking an extra tingle of self awareness in his response. "And perhaps, what you say bares some sensibility to the potential outcomes. Duly noted, they would naturally rebel, even if we indoctrinated them into submission."

All things considered, she was no fool. For a second, he had underestimated her points. There were clear holes to be poked, however. There were counter measures, too much under the Imperator's sleeve. Too much to be revealed.

Yet, before he can elaborate, a single finger pokes at the debauchery enzyme's chest, coming into contact with the outer rim of his surgery scar.

Only there, the supernatural geist unleashes straight into Anastasia's subconscious, for she had unknowingly loomed her digit over the spirit of avarice's recipient. Walter's torso, specifically under that point, caged the clockwork heart. A cosmic entity of malice lain therein briefly spreads her influence into her conscious.

Traumatic images quickly flash before her eyes. A captured Walter fails to break free from imprisonment at Ilsa's feet. Finley, his sworn friend, yells out orders. Sudbury burns to the ground. The dog headed ruffian can only stare in agony.

Mana is actually leeched from her body as it happens, all so quickly, enough to be no more than a light spaz or twitch. Electricity. Once she breaks contact, the feeling is gone, and Walter is no more than just another man.

The flavor is bitter. He's compromised more than just his ethics. He's compromised his very soul. The imperator has made peace with it, yet the ache and void lingers. The Astor learns all of it through that alone.

Yet, he continues. No immediate hostility to be found.

"We've designed a restraint. This is confidential, it could be of use to you one day, were you to reconsider.

Demons are bound to their nature, so as long as the ones who made them have them bound to worship.

A magi of sufficient power and mental faculties should be entirely capable of exerting his will over it through our mechanical trinket. Soul binding, a leash proper. Something that reminds them of their place at all times."

Did Osrona have the sufficient technology to achieve said feat...?

…How?

"Either way. You've chosen war. Unfortunate, we'll cross that bridge when we get there."

A sigh, followed by a deceptively natural beam, it iscast more predominantly at Yoshiko.

"Safe travels home."
(Walter Docro)
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[22:46] Now would've been a good time to open her mouth. But there was some restrained and little to no hesitation. The decision was near. What could the two come up with. Yoshiko would be content with either other. It wasn't her decision to make only one she should hear between two superiors of their respected homes.

There was only spared glances at any sudden amounts of movement. Walter would do his own thing and so would Anastasia as she walked closer to the Imperator with her voice being raised but calming at the same time. At least they listened to the fox to talk it out rather than let any sudden adamant feelings override them.

Any normal person would've already grown impatient and butted in when they need not. But Yoshiko has sat in places among hours upon hours, still and without disruption.

This? It was nothing.

She stood there calmly watching the two continuously without flaw. Not a single speck did she figure she'd speak or move. Her hands rested in front of her. Her expression sat deadpan on her visage with a mere wave of her hair whenever she persisted to move it.

But soon as the verdict was made, Yoshiko nodded feeling as it was best to finally speak her mind.

"I suppose we have it.. Nothing within this range could come easy. Even a talk such as this one can not achieve what we wanted in the end. I, Yoshiko Taiyang, am fine with this..." She speaks as if this would be the end knowing full well that it wasn't. There will be more moments like these in her lifetime. Yoshiko felt as if she could see that much into the future.

"I would, however, like to ask if I may engage more into what these methods you speak of. As one who follows Jiuweihu, a Goddess that blesses all Kitsune, I dare not sabotage anyone that I am against and conflict on even grounds but wish to sway away from conflict altogether.

But maybe... the day will come where we can sit and come to anagreement. I'm also sure we will not leave here today with frivolous comments and be content on what was spoke here.." A mere glance was paid to the male behind her. She could feel the chill from the warmth she radiated alone.

"To our own, I suppose... Goodbye for now, Imperator Walter. We shall meet again soon, of course. I know how much your day exceeds differently when I am around. Especially in temperature," she spoke beaming to him as well before glancing at Anastasia to see what she would say.
(Yoshiko Taiyang)
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[22:48] He finally listened to her warning. Her repeated warning. Perhaps... She had under estimated his own craftiness. Her finger collided against his chest and all at once she felt it, she saw it. She experienced it.

Emerald gaze widened, and there she stood, stuck, transfixed as if a frozen statue. Much as mana was pulled from her, that cosmic-esque entity seemed to connect them in that moment and as Anastasia twitched momentarily, Walter would bare witness to her own experiences.

Osrona burning while a crying child - herself - was forced to flee. Odin's death and Aradia's sobbing. Her battle against her very mother who had been overtaken by pride. Her questioning August on why he left and those tumultuous emotions she had experienced. Her losses, time and time again. Alexander and then too soon afterwards Atlas' death.

The indecision of Anastasia's mind versus her heart as Walter held that mechanical sword above her brother, threatening his very life and how she had not acted then. How she had acted in the event of Atlas' own demise and yet the outcomes had been the same.

They shared pain and they shared anguish in that short, short timeframe. It's only as her finger pulls back does the feeling fade. But there's a quietness about her, staring at the Kitsune Imperator curiously, as if she didn't know what else to say in that moment. Did she even have any clue as to what Walter had seen from her own side? Did he know what she had seen? There was no telling.

"... I-..." She stopped herself short. Perhaps for the first time ever, the Lightbringer was at a loss for words. The information that Walter shared seemed to shake her from her trance, and for a moment she considered the possibilities of such a thing. But.

Could he use it upon humans as well? A frown decorated her visage, considering the implications of such a barbaric act.

"... I have to choose war, to protect my people and what remains of my family. Just as you do as you do due to your own reasons, I have my own." She stated, perhaps more polite than she had spoken previously.

A new found respect perhaps for the Imperator, given those things she had witnessed?

"Perhaps... Soon... An agreement can be reached. It's just unfortunate it could not happen today."

With that said, she'd move to head towards the Kitsune now, a deep sigh overtaking her.
(Anastasia ven Astor)
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[22:54] Kokito steps inside the dojo...

Walks all the way to where he is not close to the closer group.

Sort of a perfect nirvsns state...

Then he watches Docro, for a bit. Now there was a beastkin that feared not to give itself to its wants. He'd probably have a kinship... But that might have been years before.
(Kokito)
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[22:57] Okay. Right. No one was shooting at him. He took another step back, raising his hands and showing open palms. And another. And another... He was almost there. Almost out of this god forsaken dojo. He opened the door simply leaning his back against it and... disappeared behind the wooden planks.
(Romulus Aethern)
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[22:59] Kokito blinks in disbelief at the act of the man. Why did he backed away? He was curious, but did not felt like pursuing it.
(Kokito)
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[22:59] Yoshiko Taiyang says, "We shall be leaving now.."
[23:34] The spirit of avarice thirsts. It breaks through not only Walter's ego, but Anastasia's own, feeding on the surface of her memories, recollections of anguish and impotence, they're shot straight into the imperator's own thought stream by syringe-like pressure. A cacophony of the lightbringer at her least graceful, broken and beaten, emotionally scarred. Not unlike himself at his most sensible.

These episodes, much like his own, had fueled her to survive this far. In some, if not most of these, he had been a present influence in one way or another, if not the main deterrent or cause of contention.

The phantasm of guilt looms over, albeit briefly. Yet it dies wailing, as the imperator's cosmic geist swallows even him.

His lip briefly gapes. The phenomenon thus far unseen by even himself, being the cornerstone of the transmundane that had made it possible. The vehicle of said event. Walter had no answers.

Serea's wraith brings her blade crashing down. It comes into contact with Walter's own weapon, the mechanical angel. Anastasia, younger, farther away from becoming a seasoned knight, brings her own to the struggle. They overpower her.

It rings as a question mark. They had connected, somehow. Either by polar dissimilitude or undeniable traits in common.

"You..." He stutters, making a false start to reach for his hand, though he stops himself before actually grasping it. Walter turns on his heel, breaking up his pace of breathing, as well as concealing his countenance from view.

The imperator's face had narrowly collapsed. It would take him a minute to build it back up.

"Whatever." Aloofly, not quite managing to muster his more elegant, thespian-like, villainesque façade, the crook breaks up their interaction with more casual flare. As if they were mere acquaintances.

"Just, stay out of my way. I have more than enough to do in here."

His throat clears with a glottal attack before he shifts back to the duo. Walter was ridden by vague curiosity.

"And don't die."
(Walter Docro)
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[23:34] Walter Docro says, "her hand*"
[23:43] Again, she's out from nowhere, stumbling about whiles taking long, idle drags from her cigarette. There's even a nice wake of smog in her path, the smell of the underground, thrown together with some rotten blood and topped off with the scent of a chimney pipe. - It's sickly.

She's going to miss what these three were on, no rhyme or reference to the convo.. She can only assume things. So she'd march right on up and around to near on Walter's side, almost trying to stomp on that cat..-

A half-assed point between the two Nyseans. "Who'd a tout'? Teraphim's were s'noble that even this lot got sick of'em." A fizzle between her lips as she almost loses her cigarette on the cracked, squeaky cackle to follow.

And then a look up to Walter with her brow going, only a glance.. Nothing much to come of it.

"S'shame we didn't let'em all in sooner.. Saved 'lotta trouble.." Smirking, she'd pinch at the base of her cigarette with a puff, watching on a little further.
(Misha)
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[23:51] Walter's stutter, and his attempt to grab her hand went noticed, vaguely, but she doesn't quite register it. She had returned to Yoshiko's side and it's only as that sickening smell of the sewer, the acrid cigarette smoke and the rotten blood that alerts her to the Razuka's presence at first.

There's a twist on her face away from peering at her retainer, to eyeball Misha. The small moment Walter and Anastasia had shared - unbeknownst to the other - is forgotten about, swept away to the wayside in favour of the one who had slain the person she had loved. Two people she had loved. One familial and the other that much closer.

"... I haven't gotten sick of them. We haven't gotten sick of them, either. Don't presume you know me or my reasons." She said, her voice low. The emotional energy from the Astor was at an all time high. Whereas with Walter there was an aloofness to her manner of speaking and her actions, with Misha everything morphed and changed.

Emotions flooded her face - anger, pain, resentment. So many failures. She did not move to leave from her spot now, as if gravity itself had welded her to that very area.
(Anastasia ven Astor)
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[00:04] Yoshiko paid Misha a glance. There was no hidden emotions residing within her and frankly, she did not pay the girl's words any mind. Only a mere smile was given other than that.

"Mm... We've overstayed quite long enough. I can also assure that Anastasia will live for as long as I see fit. It is.. my duty to protect her after all.

Plus, I suggest you do not leave too much on your plate, Imperator Walter. I do remember what you said earlier.. A talk with little to no politics? Years have been stressful and if my Grandfather has taught me anything, stress needs to be relieved over a bit of... leisurely chit-chat."

Yoshiko smiles and then turns towards to Anastasia with a hand being placed on the taller women's back. "I'm sure you're ready to go.. You've been through... a lot."

She awaits the Lightbringer's acceptance to finally depart.
(Yoshiko Taiyang)
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[00:13] Yoshiko's hand was placed upon her back and even despite the Illuminated's peaceful and soothing words...? And her encouragement to leave - Anastasia continued to stand there. Her gaze never ripped itself from Misha.

The arms at her sides were tense, hands curling into fists.

The look on her face said it all - there was no need for words at the end of the day, was there? You killed them. Several moments pass by and for a while it appeared as if she wouldn't say anything even within that tense silence. And yet...

"You should leave." She said, her voice strained. It was directed at Misha there was no question about it. Anastasia knew she was firmly lodged in their territory, even if she could capitalize upon something the chances of a clean escape were slim. But still.
(Anastasia ven Astor)
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[00:22] Her first mention was met with a wave of the hand, turning to see Yoshi go about ignoring the majority of her.. Mish could only go with it, shrugging even, puffing at her life-quickening stick.

It's a little draw out, Mish even goes to pick away at one of them big, mousey ears in the meantime, not being one for manners or even keeping still.. - She'd go back all the same on mention of them leaving, it was more than a pleasure to hear.. It even seemed like the scummy rodent was making a move themselves.. Till the noble spoke.

There's a freeze on spot, scruffy brow raising up to only key in her stare at Anastasia. "Come 'gain..?" Big, war-torn ears twitch and make it all too obvious she heard it, even the expression on her face twists and turns into something of a snarl.

But.. Within seconds it seemed like she'd already thought about it, stepping on a little further to get right in the noble-woman's face. - Should Yoshi step in on or not, she'd squeak up. "Y'best 'ope y'packed yer green paint." And with it, Mish seems to explode out in all red again, blood and the feel of the after-math of an old, bloody battlefield take over their noses.

She'd let it all drag out a little longer.. But the rodent seemed to have made up her mind here.


(Misha)
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[00:36] Yoshiko didn't really have the need to ignore Misha. She just didn't know how to feel after all these years being close to her for such a long time. But it didn't seem to matter right now.

"Perhaps.. I wasn't clear on what I said prior." Yoshiko takes a moment to step in between the Astor and Mouse. Yoshiko didn't intend for any fighting here today. Especially since the whole reason Yoshiko was here was to prevent things like this with words.

"We shall be making a departure safely… No bloodshed needs to be made here and no more vile intent from the both of you. A childish action shouldn't lead to something morbid.. It's happen too many times on too many occasions.

So can you both... please refrain? I'm not demanding... I'm asking, nicely."

Yoshiko glances at both waiting to see what they both did. Hopefully things got better before worse. But if need be, Yoshiko would call upon some sunlight if things did head in that direction.
(Yoshiko Taiyang)
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[00:43] He's still somewhat flabbergasted, and therefore stunned by the recent violation of his soul's expense, and its relegation to little more than a channel between the phantasm and lightbringer. A filter, at most. He winces, struggling to snap back to his senses, incapable of fully assembling his persona from the shrapnel and bits spread.

Tension continues to spike up, and Walter is beginning to experience the recoil of droll numbness. Tinnitus carves and drills at his ears. His breathing has all but accommodated a decent pacing.

He can only bring himself to appeal to the one thing the entire continent could subject itself to from time to time in his wake.

Intimidation.

"SHUT UP. ALL OF YOU."

In clear distress, Walter huffs.

"I've had enough. Misha, let them go."

He finally turns, scowling at the most assertive pair. Yoshiko seemsto get an all abiding pass, for she rarely proved to be a nuisance. Even her pleas of silence and retreat were serene.

"Anastasia. Get out of here right in this moment. I won't repeat myself."
(Walter Docro)
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[00:52] {Item} You drop TRAITOR.
[00:52] {Item} You picked up TRAITOR. Dropped by Yoshiko Taiyang..
[00:53] {Item} You drop Jiuweihu's Epitome.
[00:53] {Item} You picked up Jiuweihu's Epitome. Dropped by Yoshiko Taiyang..
[00:53] {Item} You drop Dreamline Bomb.
[00:53] {Item} You picked up Dreamline Bomb. Dropped by Yoshiko Taiyang..
[00:56] Misha stepped forward as if she were frothing at the mouth for battle, and as she aimed to get right in her face there's a brief shake of her head.

"... I'm not going to hit you. I'm not." She said, her gaze averting away from the Razuka for the time being. Yet it was written all across her face - her jaw tightened, and with it, her hands clenched into fists. Knuckles white. She was going to throw a swing.

Right at her jaw.

"The hel I won--" She began, fist lifted. She's stopped by the timely stepping in of Yoshiko, pleading for peace. To leave. She earnestly considered it for a mere few seconds before her fist lowered itself. The brimming of starlight that had only just began to manifest around her form dimmed away as well.

If there was someone who could convince Anastasia to do something without force? It was the Kitsune standing between Misha and herself. Her own thoughts were disrupted by Walter's sudden forceful yell, and her gaze moved to the Imperator now curiously. His order of her to get out of the city right in that moment brought a look of amusement to her features, harkening back to the words he had only spoken moments prior.

"I'll do what I want." She repeated his words right back at him - a proverbial flipping of a table, perhaps. But Yoshiko's plea to leave was met with a nod. She would never listen to the screaming of someone like Walter - but Yoshiko? Another matter entirely.

"... Let us depart, Yoshiko." She murmured.
(Anastasia ven Astor)
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[00:56] Walter Docro says, "I changed my mind."
[00:56] Walter Docro says, "Do what you want, Misha."
[00:57] Walter Docro says, "She must have forgot."
[01:04] As Ana had Yoshi, Mish had Walter. If anyone was stopping the rat, it'd be Walter..- And even then, Mish was gunning for the cat when Ana's Waltery barrier was put up.. Yoshi certainly wasn't getting in her way.

Indeed frothing away with red dribbles to show for it, twitching eyes and another feral growl for good measure.. Just waiting for a chance..- They're ALMOST let go, even after the rat dropped out a couple whips of blood.

And.. Then the noble spoke…

Mish didn't even need Walter's permission, she was already spewing out all sorts of red rot from all over.. Her clothes stay black, no longer.

"GIVE'US A 'UG." Arms reached outward, Mish's bloody expression now going to be matched along with.. Bones. They tear out from her flesh right on the mention of an embrace between them.. Should surely stir up some memory of Atlas.

The scummy rodent was going to plow through anyone in her path, Ana being her destination.
(Misha)
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[01:06] It's as Walter gives Misha the go ahead, and the Razuka was already ready to attack anyone standing in her way did Anastasia attempt to grab the Kitsune in front of her by the arm - and fling her out of the way.

She refused to let Yoshiko take a beating for her sake.
(Anastasia ven Astor)
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[01:08] And Yoshiko refused to let Anastasia take a beating at all. Conflict in general needed to be eradicated.
(Yoshiko Taiyang)
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[01:15] {ITEM} Traded item with Anastasia ven Astor: Chocolate Pudding
[01:23] Yoshiko was pretty clear on her words. She didn't want any conflict to stir and she just wanted for everyone here to leave here with no further vile intentions.

Words... It didn't seem to work this time. Only when it promoted battle. Yoshiko of course was one who was a protector. A zealot of a goddess that wanted her to spread her light with peace and understanding. She knew Misha could one of these days change but she still went at a slow pace it appeared.

"A hug... Of course, an embrace is what you want then I suppose an embrace is what you'll get. An embrace of the sun and her warmth.. Once this is over, I will forgive you for your current action..

For now..."

Yoshiko's form gained a bright glow. So bright, the room appeared like the roof was teared right off and the summer sun was emitting light into room. It was all a form of protection and shield of light forced the mouse to stop in front of her.

If she had to do something lethal in this situation, so be it. It was to protect the Astor behind her. Today was not the day for her to be left alone.

Not when she was given so much.
(Yoshiko Taiyang)
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[01:29] {Lost Dangerous RPB against Misha}
[01:29] * You have been awarded 1 Roleplay Points! *
[01:29] ** Misha has inflicted an injury upon Yoshiko Taiyang. ("Temporary Injury", "Temporary Injury", "Temporary", "Duration: Medium (4 days)") **
[01:39] And.. She got her hug. A warm one at that.

The rat leapt out with open arms and was soon blasted right away by a scorching hot arrow of pure fire, near melting a hole in the very center of her chest.. It garners a loud, painful squeak that dissipates into nothing..- Just as she did with the noble there, she'd vanish.

Poof, a cloud of red smoke being all that's left of the rat.. Soon to come back around to poor Yoshi.

That's where she gets her proper closeup. - The raging rat now returning the blows in kind with the utmost force, no longer bare fisted either.. But paired with weapons that curl around her fingers, bony looking, knuckle dusters.. Sticking to those mafiosa roots.

Her cigarette wasn't only lit for her during the fight either, it melts away as ash in her cake-hole.. A fox's flames going to always burn just that extra bit more.

However they'd not last forever, Mish eventually coordinating her movements well enough to surround the old friend in a ring of her miasma, having all that putrid rot and horrid stench close in around them.. Not slowly either, though if not for quick thinking or even their powerful flames.. Yoshi would've been melted alive. - This just seemed to skim her arm.

And taking advantage of her weakened state, the rat sends a final, rock hard knuckled backhander across the face to out her of her path..- Mish was still out for noble blood.

She knew the poor noble tried to fight her own battles.. But mocking her seemed all the better. - They always made it easy to do. "S'always yer sevants first, ain't it?!" A cough and a splutter, Ana can know what to expect from the scumbag of a rat.
(Misha)
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[01:53] Yoshiko remembered it all like it was yesterday. When she was beat down by Misha when she was younger, twice. All because she was friends with Anastasia. It didn't bother her at time since she was only a child that seemed to only cry and be naïve when she didn't need to be.

But all that blood, the stench, the pain.. The kitsune was use to it by now. If she wasn't, she wouldn't be succumbed in a protective glowy layer of light that protected her wherever she went and whenever she wanted to defend something.

But despite her strength and power, Yoshiko wasn't truly one to focus on battle strategies. She wasn't a sucker for conflict like Misha was. Only when she was provoked like earlier would she ever engage in battle. This being one of those moments that just kicked it for her.

But she was injured and treated like a ragdoll even if she landed some lethal attacks onto the rodent with swift accuracy. It didn't matter. Not whenher opponent had been doing this long before Yoshiko got into battle.

"You're... still forgiven."

A measly choke erupted from her lips as she laid on her back defeated and gripping at her bloodied arm. Who would've thought a day of needed peace and discussion would turn into this.

It all fell to shreds.

But Yoshiko still attempted to release as much words as she could before the light in her eyes would black out.

"You're still blinded by madness... You never tried to forget the past and all you do is dwell in it.. But all can be forgiven if you just..." She didn't get to finish. Not when she blacked out.
(Yoshiko Taiyang)
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[01:54] {Item} You picked up Stir Fry. Dropped by Misha..
[01:56] Fool.

Poor lethargic, inconsequent, slow, old fool.

Perhaps, in an attempt to merely have Anastasia shut her prying, smug, overextended mouth, he would have enabled Misha to aggress against the only one who he'd only not want to see wounded as a result, but actually had qualms with seeing felled at all.

"Yes."

With frustration, as he retrieves his military cap and places it atop his head. The tip is lowered enough to hide the upper half of his face, mostly obscuring his gaze from being directly regarded.

"It is always the servants."

That cholera slowly but surely mutates, enervated, growing with each gloomily chanted word. A black gloved hand curls up into a fist, tightening. A trademark gesture of his, since Walter would ball up his hand, simply to avoid seeing it empty.

"And you'd target them all the same, Misha? I am quite disappointed." Withseverity, he gestures at the razuka.

There's no apologetic demeanor from his behalf. Though anger stirs him all the same. The menacing curl of his lip accompanying his scowl hints at such being the case. Dismally, the imperator treads towards the pair.

"Lay off her. Now." That pale orange glow flares up in vibrancy. There's a soothing quality to it, even. The imperator looms over Yoshiko, a hand over the area of her wound. Being unconscious, the illuminated would likely not even feel the procedure.

"..."

Walter would do something, unless the Lightbringer had different plans.
(Walter Docro)
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[01:59] There's a desperate breath that comes from her. She had tried to move Yoshiko out of the way, to take the battle on herself for the Kitsune did not need to be injured in the process of Misha's own rampage. There's an angry glare paid to Walter, worry creasing her brows before she watched.

The Kitsune proved true in her power, and yet - … Misha still won out. While it didn't appear that Yoshiko actually suffered anything permanently disabling, it still rocked at her soul that such a sacrifice had been made to keep her out of harms way. A desperate attempt.

Her heart raced in her chest, recognizing that she was facing an impossible uphill climb against failure after failure. As Misha turned towards her and made that snide comment there's a brief pause.

"No." She said solidly. "She's my closest friend." She muttered, her voices underlaid with a snarl. The light of Alph exploded outwards around her; she knew she couldn't falter here. She had to remain calm but just how close Yoshiko had been to being truly, irreparably injured haunted her. So too did Atlas' death. Something she had actively engaged in against Misha and failed.

There was a twitch, the Astor's magical circuits straining and burning under an unknown pressure but through it all, the power she was calling upon was growing greater and greater. Wings of twinkling rosegold exploded outwards from her back, a look of delirious pain breaking through that façade of anger and concern. It hurt - every single time it hurt, but she still did it... If only to protect those she cared about. Her own people. She'd take the pain, and she'd take the suffering.

"... You should have let me take the hit, Yoshiko," She said quietly through grit teeth. There's a shake of her head, the Astor going for something she had never touched even though Esbern had given it to her as a care package to the Knights. A bottle, with red liquid in it was produced. It was uncorked - and even as Misha prepared to engage with her...? She hesitated upon drinking it. She knew what it did; it dulled the senses, it let one's emotions take over. Throughout her entire life she had suppressed her emotions.

Love doesn't exist for me.

That red liquid would disable all of that for her. She'd be like a rampaging beast the entire time while she was under it's power, and Anastasia had been nothing but duty bound. She was a Lightbringer, and that duty meant steeling her emotions for logical thinking.

The potion was promptly recorked and put back away safely. Not today. Today she needed her faculties; she needed her thinking. She couldn't be an uncontrolled beast within the heart of Osrona. Against people who wanted to destroy her.

"Don't.... You ever...." Those wings of celestial light propel her into the air within the building proper, Balmung drawn in a sound of steel escaping from scabbard, before she scabbard too was retrieved from her free hand.

"EVER HURT YOSHIKO AGAIN!"

She lunged towards Misha as Walter saw to the Kitsune's well being.
(Anastasia ven Astor)
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[01:59] Walter Docro says, "I'm tired of you all."
[02:00] Anastasia ven Astor says, "You're the one that got this to happen, Walter."
[02:04] The rodent was already on the way, slowing down on spotting Ana.. Take, something.. Lovely.

Even after Walter's words, this little act only enabled the rat to fight on some more.. Self defence, clearly! Bones dropped off and are promptly replaced by new ones, the noble welcomed into a new, cold embrace.

"S'wrong drug fer you, pup.." Snickering, the rat has no time for a new ciggie..- So she'd carry on.
(Misha)
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[02:04] Misha says, "you got his"
[02:08] A pair of unnaturally bulky hands wrap over the blistered, bloodied arm of the kitsune.

"Hardly. You ran your mouth, knowing what your retainer would do for you. You underestimated me. This is a price you're paying, one of guilt.

Of indiscipline."

The molecular-altering properties of the kitsune's irradiative aura envelop it, enhancing cellular duplication, provoking the tissue to heal itself at an incomparably fast range.

He seems sunken into concentration as he does so. The bout about to ensue between the pair seems lost on him. Yoshiko eats up his whole attention.

"... you deserve better."

Cursing below his breath, as she's healed.

"... so much better."

(Walter Docro)
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[02:13] Jaeger eats Cameo.
(Jaeger)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

[02:13] Jaeger departs.
(Jaeger)
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[02:26] And once again.. Another child was welcome with bone ridden, open arms..- One day, Mish would learn that she was only ever going to eat another burning pushback that ruined her suit further.. But there's no squeak, no sound.. Only a fine, red mist.. Just as many times before.

It seemed that the noble had improved somewhat.. since their last scuffle.. Now Mish wasn't all that weakened from a variety of battles, they were on more even ground.. And the blondies performance was all the better.. Or was it the drugs?

A dashing assault is met with a hard haymaker punch, not just pushing her nose off, but most likely cracking it! It's all exhausting.. You could only repeat the same all over, melt the flesh to punish it further.. It's not only that, throughout their whole bout, the rat seemed to be leeching off the girl.

There's a constant blood flow crossing through the air between them, unnoticeable to some.. But maybe not this lot. It all stems from Anastasia and feeds into the rat. Invigorating her.. Filling those sickly, pale cheeks with colour.. With the connection? Comes an equal downside for Ana.. Everything Mish gains, the girl loses.

The exchange lasts long enough between the pair.. Rage fuelling even Mish now as it's all taken straight from the source. What it ends with is Ana outright collapsing as her system is overtaken with not just a lack of blood.. But an infection of Mish's own.. That'll certainly stick.

"Y'shud' be losin' yer tongue fer that.. Noble." The connection is broke, Mish leaning down to throttle Anastasia .. Only for a journey over to Walter.

Where she's dumped. Mish up and lighting herself a soothing cigarette to pass off this joint rage.. She's looking far too healthy. - Less pale, more colour! Stolen for now.
(Misha)
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[02:29]
{LOAD GAME}

[02:41] She was operating on emotion still, yes - but it was less cloudy emotional onslaught as it had been against Atlas. Precise movements were made as the Astor fluttered about on wings made of starlight; and there was one moment where stars twinkled around her, Anastasia purposefully throwing a feint in order to goad the Razuka into a more tense state.

That was when she struck - that searing arrow hitting her square in the chest. The flowing blood brought Anastasia weaker and weaker, the Astor looking paler than usual.

And yet the opposite could be said for Misha. She looked less sick.

Despite being a born and bred fighter, Anastasia was not invincible - she was only human. She fought until she couldn't even stand up any longer due to Misha siphoning her blood away from her, and she collapses. Limp.

Her breath was uneven, shallow and panting and there's no move to register what happened as she'd unceremoniously dumped in front of Walter. Eyes flutter with a faint sickly recognition of the Imperator's words.

"... I didn't want her... To..." She struggled to answer. There had never been a weakness like this she had felt before in her life.
(Anastasia ven Astor)
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[02:45] Luxa Vandran says, "Hmmm..."
[02:45] Luxa looks at everyone
(Luxa Vandran)
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[02:45] Luxa Vandran asks, "Whats goin on?"
[03:04] Or what, you'll all die faster?

Yes. The answer might have just been a yes.

Anastasia instead of knowing when to cut her losses, or acknowledge her lack of leverage, had absolutely shot herself in the knee again. The rat scourge of Esshar had tainted Anastasia, as it had every other bold Nysean who'd dared repeatedly slight her.

Yoshiko is wholly out of harm's way, her arm now cleansed of chained blistering and rot. Even the most abrasive of influences could mend, with the right focus. Explosion magic was no exception. And the bout's outcome, he can only contemplate in lethargy.

Anastasia, lain at the imperator's feet. Misha, just about as self accomplished as any would expect. No reprimand in wake of her victory, unlike in the aftermath of her trumping over the Taiyang.

Jade and pearl in his stare, as the kitsune looms his stare over the Lightbringer. A nod cast at the newly appointed commander of the military police, though his gaze would not follow, instead droning its scope over Serea's child.

"Lesson learned, I take it." Walter's pristine, prismatic arcanium heel raises, looming over her anemic pale facial features. Lingering just a few inches away from it. "You'd die here."

SLAM.

The floorboards resonate, as the kingpin's hulking weight comes crashing down, not over the knight's head, but directly beside it. Wood cracks completely from the force in an otherwise casual effort.

"But..." His tessitura, droll, explains. "There would be nothing for me to gain if you did."

Yet, the lithe lion is all but hauled up just yet. Though her consciousness is likely on its last embers, the Imperator makes no distinction of it. Instead, continuing to trace after his agenda to wherever it may lead them.

"You're one of their stronger ones. It would be a disservice to my stance in the war if I rid them of your support, wouldn't I?"

Walter lights a cigarette, leaning over to the High Keeper's face. Lackadaisically puffing out a curtain of nicotine between the two. He had not forgotten the interlocking.

"I'll be nice." A simper curls at the edge of his lip. It's just about as smug and arrogant as anyone would expect. "Stay here a few days. See how you like it. Reconsider my proposal."

Not like she had a choice in the matter. Not anymore, at least.

A hand gestures to Yoshiko.

"Your retainer is, of course, also invited to stay. I've taken quite a liking to her. You could learn a thing or two from how she weaves her wording."

Walter's fingers snap, then flaps up and down expecting an item. A collar. Gavrill would know of its meaning.

"Naturally, my generosity overwhelms. I might even tend to that wound if you behave, Ana." His cape flutters open, thus revealing a rare, arcanium trauma kit.

"Of course, given that you tame that spirit of yours, and see matters clearly."
(Walter Docro)
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[03:05] The tired rodent would scratch the back of his head as he floated into the Dojo, his beady red eyes flickering around the area, before they locked onto Walter. Specifically his hands as he motioned for some form of item.

Item?

What could he need in this sort of-

That's when his gaze drifts towards Anastasia. "Oh..." He let's out a sigh. "Such a pain in the ass..." He'd grumble, before turning towards the door. "Give me a second, boss. I'll go make one."

With that, the Razuka would float off.
(Gavriil)
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[03:06] Walter Docro says, "Make haste."
[03:06] Trik Gutterrunner asks, "Need-need tyrium, Gavrill-kin?"
[03:06] Gavriil says, "Got plenty..."
[03:06] Trik gives a thumbs up as he continues skulking.
(Trik Gutterrunner)
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[03:16] Was she hallucinating? Perhaps; perhaps not. Regardless, this supposed peaceful talk had ended in the worst case scenario not for Yoshiko, but for the Lightbringer instead. As the Imperator brought that heel upwards, looming over her face there's a tenseness to her injured and battered form. As it slams down, she fully expected it to impact against her - but instead, it connects to the flooring beside her head and the noise was enough to jerk her eyes back open.

Her breathing was still shallow, coming in short pants. The possibility of dying in Osrona was something completely unfathomable to her. This was, after all, her city. Her home. But it seemed death would not claim her - not yet, anyway. Which was surprising, given when she had been tossed down at Walter's feet she had fully expected it.

Of course he'd work out to get something out of the whole ordeal and there was a grimace from her all the same. The exhaling of that cloud of smoke results in a brief choking cough from her, but she didn't even truly have the strength to lift her arm to wave it away.

"... Probably..." She managed to answer. But that niceness he boasted about was something that she didn't want - a scowl crossed her paler-than-usual features for a moment at such implications. She knew Yoshiko was somewhere out of her direct line of sight and there was a shake of her head. "... D-... You don't... Have to stay." She said, struggling to sit up slowly given her injuries.

There was still so much to do - and yet more kept piling onto her shoulders over and over again.

The direct implication that she'd be held within Osrona - against her will, of course - was left unanswered to and untended to. What could she possibly say in response to that beyond making Yoshiko wasn't fretting over her life? Emerald eyes traced that arcanium trauma kit, jaw tightening just a bit at the thought of that item being held over her head.

And in response?

A silent glare was issued thusly to the Imperator. Defiant, but silent.
(Anastasia ven Astor)
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[03:22] After a rather brief excursion down to the sewers, the Rat Artificer, or Ratificer would would return with a few items held tightly within his grubby mitts.

"It was... As much of a pain in the ass, as I thought it'd be..." He'd grumble, as he floated closer, and closer towards Walter, the items he held onto so tightly being offered to the Imperator. "But, here ya' go."

The items being handed over?

Why there were nothing less than a Anti-Magic Restraint, and the remote that went with it.

"Yup..."
(Gavriil)
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[03:26] The Fox was merely unconscious. She had been healed and dealt with for the most part, he vision coming back to her but it was blurry and she didn't have enough energy to muster anything close to a mutter.

But what would happen was the flaming thread connected to Yoshiko's tome and her chest would float near close to Anastasia and bless her with a second of the sun's light. Only to show that she wasn't going to leave her and nothing was going to tell her otherwise.
(Yoshiko Taiyang)
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[03:28] Trik was just quietly watching the scene from afar. Unsure of what was going on, it did seem interesting that things were playing out as they did at the bridge. Once more, Misha stood triumphant over another of Nysea's ilk. Was this what was meant when Walter talked about inviting them back to Osrona with some restrictions?

The twitchy Razuka gnawed on a piece of blue mercury as he always had, sharpening his front teeth. Would anyone miss the Nobles? Would anyone care? Chitters and squeaks followed his voice as he moved closer, nodding.

"Trik want to know-know, what becomes of her and other noble-things? What is plan if not kill-kill? Imperator-lord has more ideas for them, yes-yes? What is purpose in grand scheme-plot?"

Then a pause as he looked at the chunk of ore.

"Trik also wondering, what rights do they have-have in Osrona-city?"
(Trik Gutterrunner)
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[03:33] The oldest rodent properly lit up that cigarette of hers there, having sparked a small match along the tiny box that held it, only to have it fizzle up the tip of her ciggie. - There's a long, drawn out drag from it to follow…

She was brimming with just.. Rotten.. Smug . .- Ness. That's it. A wide grin with her chin held high, smoke dwindling around her.. And her flesh? Healthy as ever, all the vitality drawn out a younger soul and now shown all over her, going as far as to give her rosier cheeks there..

A thumbs up thrown at Gavril there, speedy and ready to answer. "Good job, pup!" More praise is followed by the ruffling of his hat and hair, near on bringing him down to her level.

She could only take a backseat from there, going about her post-coi.-fight smoke.
(Misha)
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[03:36] The collar, as well as the controller find their home within the imperator's clutches. The party rat is met with an approving simper, perhaps being one of the most reliable silvercaps in the entirety of the Authority. Rivaled only by Stavros, with both being second only to Misha herself.

"Good work, Gav."

His tone turns almost playful, then. As those deceptively brutish hands trace around her prone neck, bestowing her new leash onto her. Walter scoots up dangerously close to her face, completely uninvited as he laces the restraint behind her nape.

"I've brought a wonderful pendant, my dearest queen. From the hand and hammer of my finest smith." Playfully, as the ruby-like gem at her throat lights up, hinting at it being active. "I pray and hope it is of your approval, mn?"

He straightens up, loudly snapping his digits once more.

A handful of henchmen gather around the pair, readying themselves to carry the lightbringer away, in order to assess her wounds and deliver rudimentary first-aid treatment.

The imperator speaks up, addressing both them as well as Trik, him being part of the group.

"No harm is to be done to them. EITHER of them. You'll see me quite discontent otherwise."

A nod.

"Grand. Good job, you all. Those who aren't tending to our guests, rest up."
(Walter Docro)
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[03:37] Walter Docro says, "Make sure all demons are aware."
[03:37] Walter Docro says, "I'll gut them myself if they overstep that ruling."
[03:43] Her exhausted form does not resist against the more brutish pair of hands that attempt to fashion her with that anti-magic collar. Never in her life had she experienced such a thing, and it's only as he leaned in closer did she look away as it was clipped together. His words bring her gaze back to him, tired and slow forming thoughts making her shake her head.

"... Don't call me that." She answered through a strained and tired voice. But... That was it. That playful attitude of Walter and his words threw her off guard completely, unbalancing the typically balanced Lightbringer.

There was an irony in a way - how Serea, when she had been Lightbringer had been captured the same as her. Her thoughts turn dark just a tad, wondering if Sythaeryn would swoop down to slay her as just he had done her mother. Yet, Walter's words yet broker brief surprise once more. No harm, and he didn't even attempt to take her weapons fromher.

She considered it, but given who held the remote? There was probably confidence backing his thought process. It had been several minutes and it's only now that she struggles to get up, on her own. Her form was wobbly, still weak, but stubbornly she refused to remain on the ground for long.

What had Appolus called her? Stubborn, stubborn, stubborn.
(Anastasia ven Astor)