Obscure Harmony ~ The Trapped World

Masquerade · Masquerade, Jul 5, 2012 at 11:48 PM

Clarissia mocked a little shriek as Diago turned the eye so that it was looking at her. She wasn't really unsettled by it, even when he took it out and set it on the counter. Despite making fun of the soup, she was surprised to see him actually taste it. She nearly had to turn away at the sight, holding back more laughter. "I can't help but laugh when you're being so ridiculous," she managed to say, taking a deep breath to calm herself, a large smile on her face. She was glad that it wasn't so bad though such that he was able to eat it. She still felt really sorry for the poor guy though. "I'm not really sure exactly why Masq hates it here, but I think he misconstrued their scatterbrained nature for rudeness before. He seemed a lot more calm when we first got here, so maybe he's over it now that he knows the truth behind their actions," she explained, plopping a frog leg into her mouth. It was slightly firm and the spice was a perfect accent to the natural flavor. She was one for spicy things anyway. Picking up a few potatoes with her fork, she plopped them into her mouth as well. It was all so savory. She closed her eyes momentarily in delight, wishing the food could just stay on her tongue, but she chewed like a normal person and managed to swallow it all. Her eyes opened and were practically sparkling with joy, but she managed to keep her composure.

"As for the festival, I don't know much about it. Masq has all the answers," the girl responded honestly before taking a sip of tea. "All I know is that it takes place on the shores of Lake Anitia, the lake that borders this city. It's just like Masq said earlier. Food, dancing, music. I think it should be fun," she chimed before prodding a few more potatoes onto her fork. She held the fork up pointed at Diago. "Here, try these," she offered, poking her tongue out at him. "I think these will make for a good complement to your soup there."

Masquerade wiped his eyes and face quickly. "N-no, Celestine, please. There's nothing you need to be sorry about. We'll have our time to talk. Right now, I'm taking great pleasure in yours and Diago's company. I'm so glad to have you guys with us," he interjected. He hadn't meant for Celestine to feel bad. "I'll probably talk to Clarissia later on tonight when we get to the inn. There's nothing to worry about." He gave her a reassuring smile to let her know that he wasn't bothered by it at all. It was really the past that just overwhelmed him, truth be told. "And you're right; there are other girls. As they say, every loss only serves to make you stronger. It's like losing a battle with the war being far from over." The analogy seemed unbelievably inappropriate, but then thinking about it a bit more, love truly was like a battleground. He was fighting for what he held true to his heart. There was nothing he wouldn't do to succeed, but his success rested in the hands of the one he loved. Would she accept his love or deny it? I guess I'll be figuring out the answer to that tonight...

"I appreciate you offering to help, but that song I played represented the utmost epitome of my feelings for Clarissia. You saw the effects of it yourself," Masquerade said confidently, trying to straighten himself up. He could still feel the residue from his tears on his cheeks, and his eyes were still red and slightly puffy. "If I didn't win her with that, then the only thing I can imagine would help would be time, even though it already feels like we've been friends for an eternity. It's almost as if I can't remember a time when we weren't friends. But I can wait. You'll find that I'm a very patient man," he stated calmly, his composure slowly but surely reaching its normal state of being. "I might need to talk to you again in the future; I think that would be enough help. And I really appreciate it." The composer bowed his head to Celestine who couldn't have possibly been more kind. It was something he didn't want to take for granted.

Eebit · Eebit, Jul 9, 2012 at 5:25 AM

He grinned wider having made Clarissia laugh. She had a very sweet, charming laugh... It was one that made him want to join in and keep her happy, though Diago knew that the girl was just humouring him. "I'm hardly being ridiculous, Clarissia. Just trying to provide a little... ambience." He pronounced the word 'ambience' in a rather romantic way, adding to the comedy of the situation. It was especially funny watching Clarissia look with such disdain upon him eating the bog soup. "It really doesn't taste that bad, you know." Though he flinched slightly as he came across the crunch of a gnat in the soup... Ugh... once you get past all the weird textures, that is.

He listened, then, to what she had to say about Masquerade's opinion of the Sinerians. "Ahhh... so it's sort of more of a misunderstanding?" he asked, still not entirely sure why the man had had such a bitter past experience with the place. "I guess having all of the cards in your hand makes it a little easier to watch the rest of the game unfold..." he said, idly. "It's good that he's feeling a little more at-ease, though. Sure makes it a lot nicer for the rest of us to see the place without a coloured view of it..." He sighed, longingly as he watched her consume some of the delicious-looking food on her plate. "I'm a little jealous of the way you look right now, Clarissia." Diago teased, almost dryly, though he was still smiling. She offered him a forkful of her potatoes, however, and he quickly retracted his statement, waving his hands in front of him. "Oh no, I was just kidding... don't need to feel bad for me. Hahaha..." though he took the fork anyways.

Chewing the potatoes, Diago could fully understand the admiring sparkle that had been adorning her eyes just moments prior. "Holy damn, they really know how to cook these things, don't they?" he spoke in between bites, passing Clarissia's fork back to her. He swallowed, fully satisfied. "Definitely complements the soup. Wanna try some?" he asked, a mischievous twinkle in his eye, knowing that she was probably a little less interested in tasting what was in front of him, than he was in tasting what she had ordered. "I kid, of course... unless you actually want some. Either way, it's amazing that they can cook as well as they do here, wouldn't you say?" he looked around, making sure none of the locals were listening, "You know... considering... everything." He focused more on his bowl, making sure that he hadn't offended anyone who may have been eavesdropping. Pissed off enough locals today, I think! "Well, either way, the festival should be some good fun, I agree. I must've missed what Masq said about it though... I was... preoccupied." He rubbed the back of his head sheepishly, recalling the events that had taken place a little earlier. "Save me a dance though, will ya?" he blurted out with a quick wink.

He finished up what was left of the meal in front of him, and leaned back into his chair, fairly satisfied to have eaten after such a long day without a meal. The only thing remaining in the bowl were the gnats (which Diago was not particularly a fan of), and a few stray claws. He stifled a burp and politely covered his mouth, craning his neck forward into his collarbone. "Definitely tasty..." he looked over his shoulder towards the door. "It's getting dark, though... and I'm getting a little antsy. Sorry, again, to make you have to pay for such an amazing meal, Clarissia..." he sighed, knowing that he could have paid if left alone for just a few more minutes. Guess that'd've been a bit too immoral for her, though.

---

Celestine looked back to Masq as he rubbed his eyes. "Well... thank you for saying so, Masq, but if we are ever being a burden or you'd rather just be alone with Clarissia, just say the word. We can take a hint..." she pondered what she had just mentioned for a moment, however, and revised her statement, "I can, at least. I'll bring Diago with me, though." she smiled at him again, sniffling slightly. The sun was sinking, and with it, the temperature. Perhaps it had just been that she was on the verge of tears, however... "Love doesn't always have to be a battlefield, Masq... It's a gamble, certainly, but maybe with Clarissia... you'll find some sort of armistice." It was something she hoped for, at least. Having seen so little of the two of them, they connected well. There was a certain distance, however, which was obviously caused by Masq's reluctance to simply speak his mind with her. The unspoken emotion of music can entrance her spirit... but his silver tongue will have to bring him the rest of the way.

She continued thinking about the analogy he had used. Love certainly couldn't always be represented as a battlefield, could it? Clashing emotions always exist... but how can you explain the tenderness? The togetherness? The words left unsaid, and yet the feeling that stirs your stomach and captures your heart...? It all seemed so complicated to her. It wasn't as simple as capturing it in a few words to make a metaphor. Love was just so... beyond anything. Art, words, poetry, and even music... only certain facets of the embodiment could be entrapped by all those forms.

"The effects of the song? It definitely slayed the beast of the river..." she giggled, before realizing that it could also be construed as an insult to his music. "But I guess you overpowered it with emotion." she realized that it was a feeble effort to save what she had just said, and she felt her cheeks warm because of it. "I mean... ah... Well, I don't know. All I can say is it was a beautiful piece... very soulful and heartfelt..." she closed her eyes, remembering the sweet, entrancing sounds that had reverberated from the tangible strings of Masq's guitar. It had been filled with emotion. Reflecting now, Celestine could now decipher the hidden meaning it had held... She stretched out her arms, wrapping them around him. She pressed her face into his shoulder. "You're so silly, Masq. If you've been friends for so long, then what is holding you from telling her?" she withdrew herself from the embrace she had instigated, hands still firmly grasping his shoulders. "Don't be afraid... just tell her how you feel. She surely knows, from the song... now you just need to reassure her. Ask her for a dance tonight; you can talk then!"

Masquerade · Masquerade, Jul 9, 2012 at 6:38 AM

Clarissia laughed at Diago's reaction to the taste of the potatoes and took back the fork when he handed it to her, not hesitating to eat some more of the cheesy, buttered things in delight. At the mention of bog soup even getting close to her mouth, she shook her head quickly, though Diago had already stated it to be naught more than a joke. "I'd hate to rob you of any of that delicacy," she spoke clearly with a rather formal tone, trying to make the bog soup out to be a gourmet meal fit for kings. To touch her commoner taste buds would do it no justice, for her palette was simply just not refined enough. "I'll definitely agree with you on the fact that these guys really know how to cook. I think it's just that they know the ingredients so well since they practically go out and collect them themselves. It's pretty cool," Clarissia chirped as she shoveled down the rest of her potatoes, taking her hot biscuit in her hands to nibble at. "The chefs tend to go all out--part of the whole pride business, you know? Their food just has to be the best food, and I'm perfectly all right with that," she said as she grinned, starting to work on her frog legs since Diago seemed to be heartily draining the contents of his soup. At the mention of a dance, Clarissia slammed a fist on the table as she had to choke down a frog leg. She coughed a few times before wiping her mouth. Surprisingly, most of the Sinerian customers in the place didn't seem to either notice or care about the commotion.

"S-sorry about that. S-sure, I'll make sure to save you a dance," she sputtered out nervously, tacking on a bit of a laugh before gulping down some tea to clear her throat. She polished off her frog legs and pushed the plate away from her. The waiter came and picked up the dishes and crocodile eye quickly, leaving the bill on the table. Clarissia picked it up and took out six gold coins, placing it on the counter as a tip. "Don't worry about it. Money is money. Can't put a cost on a good meal with good company right?" she said, getting out of her seat to go talk to the cashier. She forked over some more gold to him before returning to Diago and grabbing hold of his arm. "Come on then, antsy, lets get to the festival!" With that, she charged out of the restaurant dragging Diago along for the ride.

"I'll keep that in mind, but I think everything's going to be all right," Masquerade replied, still smiling. He hated having to ask Celestine and Diago to give him and Clarissia some space; it felt rude. He would have to take care of things tonight, and that was that. Words of his song defeating the curse serpent reached his ears and he laughed suddenly, trying to reign back in his calm demeanor. "Yes, the power of emotions that courses through music is great--great enough to defeat Saturn's curse...or at least one envoy of it. I appreciate your kind words concerning the piece, but sometimes I feel like I don't deserve such kindness. I'm just able to play; I didn't have to work hard at it or anything. Other people spend lifetimes devoting themselves to bettering their songs, but I'm at the epitome of near perfection, not to say I'm unrivaled or better than anyone else," he added quickly making sure he didn't sound conceited. In reality, he felt like his talent wasn't even his own, but he wasn't going to mention that to Celestine at the risk of sounding crazy. He felt Celestine give him a hug, however, and he smiled as she pulled away, her words still ringing through his mind.

"I'll tell her. Trust me," he reassured the woman. The sky had grown fully dark now as night emerged from nonexistence. More food was being tossed on the grills, and all the torches on the beach were now lit, their flames flickering in a surreal nature in the depths of the dark night. A few of the Sinerians had brought out some instruments: acoustic guitars, flutes, and drums. The sound they played was somewhat tribal, yet possessed a tweak of civility as well. It was a truly harmonic and uplifting sound that offered plenty of pizzazz to the little festival. Even more Sinerians had decided to dance a bit while their young continued to splash around in the shallows of the lake. Masquerade turned his head to the direction of the road to see Clarissia rushing towards him and Celestine with Diago in tow, though by the looks of it, she had a vice grip on him so he had no choice.

Clarissia came screeching to a halt before Masquerade and Celestine, finally relinquishing her grip on Diago. "Hey guys, we got here as fast as we could. Diago insisted we rush over. He seemed pretty excited about the festival, isn't that right, Diago?" she inquired of him with an innocent grin.

Eebit · Eebit, Jul 10, 2012 at 8:02 PM

Diago laughed; a good, hearty laugh, almost too loudly. He immediately covered his mouth and glanced around, hoping he didn't just draw some unnecessary attention from the locals, once again. He was a little surprised that he and Clarissia hadn't been asked to leave throughout their meal, but then he remembered that the culture here was a little... different. "Well, it's good, but I guess I don't blame you for not wanting any. Wouldn't particularly overglorify it myself, though it does have a nice flavour to it," he smiled. "You know, for meals like this, I guess the pride comes in handy..." he rested his elbow on the table, placing his chin in his hand. Wonder, though... does that go away if we confront their former God? Are we robbing them of something they want to keep...? He decided that this was a thought best saved for a little later, when the conversation was maybe not quite as light-hearted as it was. On the other hand, though Clarissia had just almost choked on the fact that he had asked her for a dance. He widened his eyes and raised his eyebrows. "Well, now. I was just joking; no need to try and suffocate yourself over it!" he chuckled through the last few words, giving her a little wink.

"Well, thank you all the same... I'll repay the favour next time we're in a town... with any luck, that is!" he shrugged his shoulders. It was definitely appreciated by him that she had found the loose change on her; he had been starving up until that point, so that even the bog soup had been a welcome addition to his stomach. Perhaps if he had more choices, his meal would have been more... aesthetically pleasing, though as he had learned in his past, 'beggars can't be choosers.' A lesson he knew all too well, as sad as it had seemed to him. He was sort of ashamed of his past, though not enough so to abandon his habit of earning a quick buck off of an unsuspecting passerby. He smirked at the thought of this, again. It gave him a rush, being a bit of a kleptomaniac... A habit I gotta break for Celestine though... I promised.

With that, though he had been whisked away, tearing down the streets in tow of Clarissia. The girl had a lot of strength; his arm felt like it was going to be ripped out of its socket! "Gods, Clarissia, slow it down!" he laughed aloud, "There's no rush! I'm not THAT antsy to get back!" but all the same, they were making good pace towards the shore of the lake, where he could see fires blazing, and hear the tribal sounds of the Sinerian instruments. If nothing else, the people of Rizen-dae knew how to entertain themselves. Great cooks, sweet music... Huh, what else can they do? He wondered with about a quarter of his remaining brainpower (the rest of which was spent trying desperately to keep pace with Clarissia without falling over, and keep his arm in its socket) whether Masq would adorn the festivities with his own beautiful music? The song he had played on the night they met... the one that killed the serpent... It was beautiful. Truly beautiful.

---

Meanwhile, however, Celestine and Masq were finishing up their own conversation. "Your talent is obviously one that you must take pride in... to not have to practice to play so effortlessly... why, it's something I could only dream of." Celestine looked at him in sheer awe. His humility was mildly charming, as well, for someone who had evoked such passion from even someone like Diago... It's not every day that you can put that sort of magical touch into an instrument... she thought to herself, truly baffled by why Masquerade was so sheepish about his talent. "With your music dispelling the curse... we will have the world back to normal as though it were nothing." she tried her best to sound optimistic. That was what they all needed; the optimism and the emotional stamina to keep going... though truthfully, Celestine was unsure herself how the journey would go. She still was unsure how four humans could just confront a God, and especially one who had plagued the lands of Sineria...

Her thoughts, however, were once more broken through by the triumphant sounds of the tribal-sounding drums and the beautiful accompaniments. The wild dance of the local Sinerians of Rizen-dae. The smell of the food wafted to her nose... and her fatigue seemed to wash away, replaced by a small burst of adrenaline and hunger. She hadn't eaten all day... "Huh... are you hungry, Masq? I could use some food myself." she smiled, tapping her toe to the rhythm of the drum, despite the fact that she was not much of a dancer herself. She was happy, however. The past couple of days had been a whirlwind - a blur. The Sinerians all seemed fully content with themselves. She sighed... "And yes, you'd better talk to her. Now's as good a time as any to make your move..." she followed his gaze, "...and there they are now, too. Perfect timing!" she grinned, waving down the speedy Clarissia as she made a mad dash towards the festival, keeping Diago in check as she had hoped. "Thanks for watching over him, Clarissia. Hope he didn't give you too much trouble!"

"Hey now, I wasn't a troublemaker. I kept to my promise, just like I said! Clarissia can certainly attest to that." he glanced over at the girl, though he was rubbing his hand now that she had released her grip. "The festival sounded fun; the flames, the drums... and the food here is definitely to die for. I'd heartily recommend the bog soup." he winked at Clarissia, hoping he might be able to trick Celestine or Masq into eating it as well, so he didn't feel so alone. Celestine was onto him, however. "I know better than to try something with that sort of a name, silly." She playfully stuck her tongue out at him.

Diago rubbed his head... "Well, it actually wasn't all that bad. I just didn't know what else to order..." Celestine burst out laughing at him, obviously finding his choice of meal pretty entertaining. "C'mon, cut it out! The waiter was looking at me so readily... didn't want to keep him waiting..." he grumbled, trailing off, finishing indifferently with a simple, "Whatever." It was nice that the four of them had gotten together again; the festival would certainly be good fun. Diago turned to Masq, now, asking "So, you're gonna play for this, right? I'd certainly love another performance..." he smiled, just hoping the music wouldn't cause any of the small Sinerians to explode like the serpent had in the river.

Masquerade · Masquerade, Jul 10, 2012 at 8:35 PM

Masquerade looked to Clarissia at Diago's mention of bog soup and saw her face contort in disgust, but Celestine had already called out the bluff. To him, it didn't sound all that appetizing either. Maybe he would try it some other time. He felt his stomach start to rumble from Celestine's earlier mention of food. It was true that they hadn't had anything to eat all day. Masquerade's hand reached to his back where his violin case was at. He would have loved to play music with the Sinerians; maybe it would actually help him understand them a bit more. For him, music was the greatest form of communication. He could feel the souls of the ones who played it resonating with his own. It was such a deep feeling. He remembered earlier times in his musical career where experiencing such a thing made his body tremble. Sometimes the emotions and inner sentiments would be so powerful that they had made him faint. Regardless, he considered it an honor to be able to play music with others. "I definitely will offer my music to the Sinerians. I see they're lacking violin anyway. But I have to get something to eat first," he explained, blushing a bit as his stomach rumbled again in anger. He turned his head to gaze at Clarissia's face. "And I....need to talk to Clarissia, too." He offered his hand to her.

Clarissia was a bit confused, but took Masquerade's hand gladly. "Diago was certainly good company. It was hardly any work keeping an eye on him," she said to Celestine as she walked away from the duo with Masq. "Have fun you guys! It is a festival after all," she chimed as she walked cheerily next to Masquerade. The night air was invigorating and the music was so catching that she wanted to break out in dance right then and there, but she restrained herself as Masquerade stopped by one of the grills. A rather happy Sinerian loaded a plate up with a few kabobs and handed it to the appreciative and hungry composer. "Wow those look delicious. Maybe I should have saved room for some," Clarissia exclaimed at the sight of the kabobs. They seemed to be composed of seared, barbecued pork, cherry tomatoes, and bell peppers. The smell was absolutely delightful, but Clarissia was stuffed. She followed Masq closer to the water and plopped herself down in the sand next to him.

Picking up one of the steaming kabobs, he munched down on the stick, sliding off some of the pork, peppers, and a cherry tomato with his teeth. It was absolutely delicious--a perfect combination of flavors. His face lit up with delight and he swallowed what he had in his mouth so he could talk without being rude. "Umm...so, I...I had something I wanted to tell you, Clarissia. And, I thought it was obvious by the song I played for you last night, but Celestine set me on the right path." He watched in confusion as a sad look formed on Clarissia's face, but she said nothing, so he continued. "Well, it feels like we've known each other for the longest of times, and I've so thoroughly enjoyed your company. I don't know what I'd do if I didn't have your bubbly, carefree personality in my life. You're a beautiful young woman, and well..." His voice trailed off as a crimson blush plagued his face making his skin feel like it was on fire. "Clarissia, I love you....and that's just the way it is. I...I really want us to be together--" The composer stopped as he heard a few sobs coming from right beside him. Clarissia was crying.

"I'm...I'm sorry, Masq. I should have known this was coming from the song, but I played it off as it was nothing," the girl apologized, tears flowing down her cheeks. "I just...I just didn't want to have to tell you that I don't feel the same way. I like things just how they are with us being good friends, and I don't want anything to change that. I just...don't love you the way you love me," she said, quickly rising to her feet. "I need to be alone." With that, she wiped her eyes and dashed off along the shoreline, just aiming to get away from everything. She knew deep inside that she had broken that man's heart, but she couldn't just lie to him. He deserved to know the truth no matter how painful it would be. There was just something holding her back. She wanted to love Masquerade, but her heart just wasn't in it for some reason. It kept telling her that something was...wrong. Maybe in time she would be able to figure out what it was, but for now, Masquerade would have to suffer and she hated the idea of that. She hated herself. She continued to run, eventually coming to a stop at the far end of the lake's shore where no one was around, and she fell to her knees and cried some more.

Masquerade was stunned. He knew that rejection was possible, but the stinging feeling in his heart--the feeling that it was shattering into a million pieces--was so intense. He could hear the shards hitting the floor of his soul like glass. He had no idea what to think. His mind was completely blank, his stomach taking the opportunity to force some more kabobs into his body so he wouldn't be hungry anymore, but all the while he could feel the aching feeling he had when the last girl he had confessed his feelings to had rejected him, only this time it was amplified to a whole new level, for he thought Clarissia to be 'the one'. "I guess....I guess it just wasn't meant to be..." he muttered miserably as he gazed out over the waters of the lake, trying so hard to suppress the pain that continually built inside of him.

Eebit · Eebit, Jul 17, 2012 at 6:04 AM

Masq's seemingly unconscious touch of his violin case did not go unnoticed by Diago, who continued to smile at the prospect of the man playing his song once more. "Atta be, Masq! We're all looking forward to it!" he grinned, widely. "The food's excellent here. Clarissia, I'm sure, can tell ya what to get, seeing as I have no taste, apparently." he chuckled in his own self-deprecating way, almost nervously, and grabbed his shoulder, massaging it slightly. He looked to Celestine, "Guessing you could use a meal as well, eh? Let's head off, then. I'd love to get a more proper meal in me." Despite the fact that he had just eaten, Diago felt himself feeling rather empty in the stomach department; it would be nice to get a better taste for the delicacies that the Sinerians had to offer... and certainly at this roaring festival, there would be plenty of delicious food to sate their appetites. 'Sides, gives me a little bit more time with Celestine. Can always do with that. his grin faded a little bit, knowing that she was still apprehensive of his advances... But then again... does she really wanna be with me? She was so ready to send Clarissia after me... He shook his head, brushing it off for the moment, his blond hair shaking in a dance out of his eyes. It was truly a wonderful night.

"Glad to hear that he wasn't too much to handle for you, though I knew that you'd be able to handle him if he got..." she looked over to him, almost knowingly, "...out of hand, like we all know he can." At this point, Celestine glanced over at Masq, as well, as he mentioned that he needed to talk to Clarissia and smiled at him, almost with some reassurance. "I guess we ought to leave the two of you be, then. C'mon, Diago; I could do for a bit of food now anyways. It feels like we haven't eaten in days!" with that, she similarly grabbed him by the hand and dragged him, just as Clarissia had before, hair whipping through the gentle breeze back in Diago's face... the latter boy surely had to duck so as not to get whiplash. "Easy, easy! Celestine, slow down! What's the rush?!" Diago could barely manage the words out of his mouth without having the mass of dirty-blonde Celestine hair whisking in and out of his mouth. She glanced at him over her shoulders, "With any luck, something great for those two!" They weaved their way through the small festival, taking care not to have any unfortunate accidents with the people of Rizen-dae. Finally, they began to slow, and Celestine looked to see Masq - with Clarissia in hand - stop for a kebab. The anticipation was killing her. I'm sure it's going to work out right. It has to... I've seen the way she looks at him.

Diago looked at Celestine, glancing from her to try and follow her gaze when he saw Masq and Clarissia departing for the beach. "Ohhhhhhhhhhhhh, you mean THOSE two. I gotcha." She didn't respond. He braced himself for some sort of reprimanding on how he didn't actually know anything about love or romance or whatever-was-happening-between-Masq-and-Clarissia... but it never came. Weird. What's up with her? He took his hand and waved it in front of her face, trying to pull her attention away. "H-hmm? Oh, sorry, Diago... Lost in thought." Not surprising, somehow...

"Well, do you wanna stare at the beachfront? Or do you wanna get some food?" he asked, obviously growing concerned for her health. She had not eaten much the night before; a few simple crackers in the inn back in Cordan, and today, she had yet to eat anything. "I think I'll answer that for you... let's grab some grub, okay?" A worried look crossed his face as she looked at him intently. He moved his hand, tenderly grasping her's in order to shepherd her towards the table. "O-okay..." she conceded, allowing him to bring her to the food table. The smell of all of the delightful treats hit her nose at once, causing a symphony of scents to ravage her brain... and unfortunately, her stomach as well. She felt the shake of her poor, empty tummy waiting to be fed. "Hehe, I guess I'm hungrier than I thought," she chuckled. Diago gave her a semi-smug grin. "Consider how little you've been eating, lately, Celestine..." she shrugged her shoulders, waving off his comment. She clearly didn't care all that much about how her eating habits (or lack thereof) would be bothering her companions. "I'm eating now, Diago. Isn't that enough?" It was his turn to shrug now, allowing the woman to do whatever it was that she pleased.

Celestine sampled what they had out in the open; the kebabs that Masq had been stocking up on earlier smelled absolutely delicious, so she grabbed a couple of those. She also wanted to try some potatoes, and maybe a little bit of the infamous bog soup, as well. "You... may not like that as much as you think, Cel. It's good, but it could use some other textures to back it up." She nodded slowly, looking up and down the table to see if she had anything else she could counterbalance the soup with... A nice piece of warm bread seemed like it would do the trick. Her plate filled up nicely, she took a seat off to the side of the festival, Diago following close behind, not knowing what else to do. "Want a drink?" he asked, tentatively. She smiled, nodding vigorously in approval that he asked. He decided to go ahead and surprise her on what he chose, making his way back to the table to see what was there. "Hmmm..." he mused aloud, pondering just what he could grab for her. Lemonade seemed promising enough, so he poured out a glass, casting a side-wards glance at the beach where he had thought Clarissia and Masq were... though he only saw the latter, with a slight droop to his posture.

Immediately, Diago was conflicted. Shit. Do I take the drink back first, or do I go comfort my friend? Celestine... will she be mad if I abandon her? She'll be mad with worry if Clarissia is missing... He decided on a whim, turning back to deliver the drink he had grabbed for Celestine first. "Here you are, m'lady! Enjoy... Now, I've gotta use the men's room. Nature's a playground and all that," at this, Celestine crinkled her nose up, which roused a sly, nonchalant grin from Diago, "I'll be right back. Keep eating, okay?" "Alright, Diago... stop babying me." she playfully stuck her tongue out at him, mockingly swinging a punch at his leg in compensation. Diago jumped back, nimbly moving out of the way and narrowly missing a stray Sinerian. He disappeared into the crowd... or rather, as much as one could when one is around two feet taller than the average citizen. He moved towards the beachfront, hoping Celestine would not get up to follow.

He caught Masq muttering to himself as he consumed food on a nigh-constant path from his plate to his mouth. Diago reached out, planting a hand firmly on his shoulder, trying to make sure everything was okay. "Masq. You alright? Where's Clarissia...? Is she okay?" Questions immediately bombarded the poor man, who evidently had something wrong. "What... happened?" he took a seat next to the man, noting the footprints leading away in very elegant bounds with some sort of grace that could only come from Clarissia... "What... What am I missing here, man?"

Masquerade · Masquerade, Jul 17, 2012 at 6:46 AM

Lost in what seemed like an eternal stupor of anguish, Masq found himself looking up at Diago with half of a kabob in his mouth after feeling the man's firm touch upon his shoulder. He blushed a bit, taking the food from his mouth and wiping it along with the tears from his cheeks. He allowed a smile to creep onto his face and even laughed, though it sounded more like a choke than anything. "Oh...it's nothing to be too worried about. It's the natural progression of life. The ups and the downs," he explained as he gazed longingly out over the waters. He felt like a little version of himself was walking around picking up the shards from his heart deep within him. It felt like it would take an eternity to put it back together again. "Well...I have a thing for a Clarissia, and I finally confessed in words my love to her, but she just...." his voice trailed off and he felt the familiar sensation of tears beginning to form in his eyes again, but he refused to cry anymore. He had to remain strong. They were all on a mission, even if it would soon come to an end. "She didn't feel the same way. It's not her fault. She just wants to stay best friends like we are...and I really should be happy with that." Speaking those words aloud seemed to have a positive effect on him and the tears that threatened to break loose found themselves retreating back again. They would not be shed now, no.

The scream of a young Sinerian child playing in the waters resounded through the area and the music playing stopped. From within the lake arose what could only be called a monster of a serpent. The blue and gray scales. The solid white eyes. It was a curse serpent--one that formed at night in the waters of the Sineria River which meant that the river must have ran into the lake at some point. It was a definite disadvantage of being a marshland nation. Regardless, the serpent now gazed down hungrily at the frightened Sinerian girl who was frozen in spot in the shallows. Suddenly, what appeared to be some kind of spear whirred past the creature's head, attracting its attention. It was the human fisherman from before. He was conjuring spears out of sand and hurling them one after another at the serpent, a few embedding themselves in the creature's body. "Someone get the child outta there!" the fisherman yelled out. He needed for the area to be clear to truly take out the serpent.

Standing up quickly, Masquerade heeded the fisherman's call. "I've got this," he told Diago firmly before dashing off into the waters of the lake. The serpent was adequately distracted with having to dodge the spears that the fisherman hurled at it. Masquerade crouched down and scooped the young girl up. "Don't worry; I've got you," he whispered to her reassuringly before getting out of the lake and far back from where the serpent was, releasing the girl and telling her to just go back into town for now. He watched as she ran off before turning around to see the fisherman slam a hand into the sand which instantly formed a large, loaded harpoon gun. Waving a hand through the air, the gun fired the harpoon inside which found itself lodged right into the stomach of the beast. A rope was attached to the harpoon, so there was no getting away for the serpent--at least at that moment. The fisherman had to act fast and he did, reaching into a large pouch on his belt to pull out a huge net. Whirling the thing around his head, he tossed it expertly through the air, the thing descending and wrapping tightly around the serpent. He gripped the rope coming from the harpoon and pulled with all his might, dragging the serpent closer and closer to the shore. When it was nothing but a struggling mass in the shallows, the fisherman drew a large cleaver and slashed a thick gash in the serpent's neck, blood flowing out rapidly and mixing with the waters of the lake.

"What is all the commotion?!" an authoritative, yet small voice resounded as loudly as it could over the ensuing silence. A rather regal-looking Sinerian stepped forward who was definitely older than the rest of them, her long hair having traces of gray in it. She marched through the crowds and approached the spot where the serpent now lay, the fisherman sheathing his cleaver and turning to face the woman. "You did this, Rick?" the Sinerian asked.

"You bet," the fisherman, Rick answered. "Decided to want to have one of the kids for dinner tonight and I wasn't about to have none of that," he said firmly, glancing over at his catch. "If you're gonna thank me, you need to thank that guy too." Rick raised a finger and pointed right at Masq who was forced to the front of the crowd by various pushes to the legs. Rick walked over to him and placed an arm around his shoulder. Masq couldn't help but notice that he wreaked of the swamp and of fish, but he wasn't about to say anything. "This guy right here rushed right into the lake to save that kid. He had to have been just a couple feet from that serpent, I tell ya. Brave fellow." He slapped Masq heartily on the back.

"As mayor of Rizen-dae, I thank both of you sincerely for your assistance this horrible night," the Sinerian woman, who was apparently the leader, said as she bowed her head to the two men.

"O-oh, you're the mayor? That's great because I'm an ambassador from Cordan," Masq said suddenly, taking a step forward. This was their chance to impress the reason why they had come, especially with the attack of the curse serpent so fresh in everyone's minds. "I came here with some others. Come and greet the mayor, guys," he called out loud enough for his allies to hear him. The silence in the area was astounding, so it didn't take much to make his voice clearly heard.

Eebit · Eebit, Jul 28, 2012 at 10:39 AM

Diago retracted his hand from the composer's shoulder, almost as though he had touched something on fire. The man seemed to be struggling - deeply so - in order to hold himself together. The tears were held back valiantly by the floodgate that was his eyelids... though it was clear that it was a losing battle. Diago could almost not bear to see him in such a state. Had that been why he was where he was on the night at Raym Falls? The source of the sheer emotion in his music? "Masq..." he started, almost in a whisper. The rogue hesitated. The familiarity of the emotion he saw in the eyes of his friend mirrored something he had been struggling to follow in his own heart. But... his song... him in general... He opened his mouth to say something more to Masq, but his tongue refused to budge in his mouth. Fuck... Celestine is so much better at this... He sat down, patted the man on the back, and said nothing for a few brief seconds, that seemed to draw on for ages. The salted water of the marsh seemed to be identical to the tears that strained in his eyes. "Man... I'm so sorry..." He gazed out over the horizon line, almost as if searching for answers with his violet eyes. Suddenly, forcefully, he turned his head to meet Masq's eye. "You're better than that. Settling for the way things are..." he shook his head, hanging it low. "I may not know a whole helluvalot about love, but maybe she's just overwhelmed by everything that came at once." He offered, before he retreated within himself again, still holding Masq's gaze...

...Though the thought train was broken immediately by distant, shrill cries of a child in the water. Diago's head snapped in the direction of the commotion, paranoid of what he would see there. All he could see was the towering silhouette of a serpentine being, rising from the sea. The very same species of serpent that they had encountered the night before, framed horrifically by the moonlight, illuminating the most horrifying of its features as it loomed over top of what could only be but a small Sinerian child. Immediately, Diago was on his feet, and he felt Masq take the same instinctual reaction behind him. Someone - a powerful, husky male voice - was already at the defense of the child. He called out, apparently in desperate need of assistance to get the child out of the way as he kept the serpent at bay. It seemed to roar in fury, agitation, and pain all at once as the man impaled it with spear after spear... Diago moved towards the girl, but Masq was already beating him to it, telling him to not worry. Diago's thoughts turned to how he could help otherwise... Celestine...! Where is she?!

He sprung to where he had left the girl, not finding her on the log, but watching the battle and muttering a prayer from afar, almost as though trying to manipulate her Mana in the same way she had to provide a boost of strength to Diago on the first night of their experiences with the Curse Serpent. She seemed intently focused on the man throwing the harpoons, not relenting on the beast as it reared its massive head to plunge down and strike the man. Diago leapt into action, whipping a single shrike at the right eye of the serpent, though it seemed almost futile at this point, as the mysterious man finished the thing off with ease. "Shit..." Diago breathed, watching his sheer, raw power eliminating both the serpent and the panic of the Sinerians... as they returned to a speechless, calm demeanour.

Diago turned back to where Celestine had stood before, but she was already out of sight... Where could she have gone...? he wondered to himself, rubbing his eyes. Had he just imagined her presence, or had she really been standing there, blessing the seemingly-ordinary man who had just singlehandedly eliminated the Curse Serpent that had taken the combined power of the four of them to destroy the night prior? "Celestine?! Where are you?" He called out into the forest, still unsure where she could have run away to in just a short period of time... He looked back to where the man was, and he saw him standing with Masq... as they were approached by a Sinerian who seemed slightly more strong-willed and diplomatic than the others. Slightly dazed, Diago saw Masquerade beckon for him to come closer, joining them.

He caught the mysterious man's name; Rick. Diago surveyed him, glancing him over, as though he was committing the man to his mind. He nodded in approval, bowing his head in his own turn to the man. "Hell of a show, mate. Pretty sure you've got the thanks of everyone." He glanced briefly down at the kill he had made, then back to the weaponry that Rick had used. "Where'd you learn to fight like that?" Diago then realized who the Sinerian was, as Masq introduced him to the mayor. "Oh... Well, nice to meet you, miss mayor, ma'am." He sheepishly smiled, not sure what to say in light of the recent events, considering his relatively minor part in them. Not to mention his... interesting interactions with the Sinerians earlier. He certainly hoped he would not be addressed by the one whom he had picked up earlier... the poor fellow. "M'name's Diago Castellui." He stretched out a hand to the small-statured, yet clearly outspoken Sinerian. "I am one of the ambassadors. Our other two companions... have seemed to have gone missing." He cast a quick glance around, before settling on Masq. "Don't know where they'd have gone, though...?"

---

Celestine, in light of the Serpent returning, had taken her own action, choosing to go find Clarissia, who was nowhere to be found. If she stood off on her own for long, it was pretty clear that she was going to be attacked by some horrible creature. After all, who was to say that the curse could not act twice in a night? What if it got worse? Celestine was certainly panicking. Especially after she saw Diago with Masq, and not Clarissia. What happened between the two of them? Did I... did I make him ruin things? She was on the beach now, having crept away from the crowd that had formed around Masq and the strange, yet incredibly powerful fighter with his sand-spears. She was okay to not be noticed by anyone right now... she needed to find Clarissia first. Hopefully nobody saw her as her blonde hair flowed in the moon's light, dress fluttering equally, billowing with the speed she was taking against the gentle breeze. Just a few hours ago, she had been encouraging Masq to take action with Celestine along the same beachfront... how STUPID had she been?

She saw footprints that led far into the deep of the night. Was Clarissia okay? Was she being followed...? Thankfully, Celestine was able to keep up with the dancer with a decent amount of ease. She had stopped running, and finally, the older girl caught up with her. "Clarissia...?" Celestine called out to the girl, who was crying herself into some sort of stupor. "You alright...?" She hated the thought of the group being torn up like this so soon after things had seemed to be going so smoothly... Especially at her own hands. God, she was so ignorant. Forcing Masq's hand to try and get him to cause some sparks to fly where she thought they should...

And what had it caused, but an eruption of the emotions that could have been? A ruination of the friendship they had? What had once glided smoothly on clear waters would now be sailing through a storm. Celestine cursed herself for not trying to wait. She had imprinted her own emotions onto the man. And what had that brought him? Apparently, nothing but a future few days of awkward, strained communication... Does this... jeopardize our mission to purge the curse...?

Masquerade · Masquerade, Jul 28, 2012 at 3:45 PM

"A pleasure to meet you as well, Mr. Castellui," the mayor said politely, taking Diago's hand with her small one and giving it a quaint shake before releasing it.

Rick faced Diago and gave him a wide grin. "I learned to fight like that out on the sea," the fisherman explained. "There are some pretty crazy things out in those waters, and if you're not prepared, you're gonna get wiped out. I learned that the hard way," he explained with a hearty chuckle. "Ya know, I retired from a life at sea and came here to the marsh for some fishin' and huntin' alligator and such. Found out there are worse monsters here than out at sea! I'm kinda well-known 'round these parts as such. Not many humans ever stick around these parts for too long, but I decided to hang back. I got quite a life here and the Sinerians are thankful, no matter how prideful they are!" he exclaimed, laughing at the discontented look that crossed the mayor's face, though he wasn't too particularly fazed by that because he knew that she knew it was the truth. He had spent many years in Sinerian and even went as far as to learn their language--there were few humans who even dared try and learn, but he was successful. He figured he'd need it if he was going to spend the rest of his days in Sineria, though travel would always be an option for him. He had yet to find a good woman, and as thus, had no family, but the lack of obligation was such a free feeling that he wondered if he'd ever want to relinquish it. Regardless, he was intent on living his life to the fullest in the marsh until he wished for something greater. For now, he was happy, and that was enough for him.

"Hmph, you may as well be a Sinerian, Rick," the mayor shot back at him in a somewhat playful manner. "You live here and you speak the language. You're just a little...taller than we would like." A smirk beset her previously calm and regal visage before turning to face the crowd. "Has anyone seen the other ambassadors?" she called out to them. The crowd chattered for a few moments before many shakes of the head could be seen in reply. The mayor sighed before turning her attention back to Diago and Masq. "I apologize. My people have never been great at noticing things. How hard is it to miss two tall people running about?" She felt like burying her head beneath the sand in shame. Prideful just like the rest, she still possessed wisdom of the years she had under her belt, and she knew being so oblivious was a hazard. The rest were just too young to realize and thus would indulge in it openly.

A sudden thought occurred to Masq. "Celestine probably went to find Clarissia because she had run off after.....well, she ran off," Masq started to explain, but faltered. It was something he'd rather not bring up in front of the entire town and the mayor. "She must have been all alone when the serpent attacked; she could have gotten hurt if the thing had chosen to attack her instead," he added, a huge cloud of dread hanging over him making it hard to breath. "I'm sure they'll both be back soon."

In the meantime, Clarissia looked up with her blurry vision out across the lake. She had run pretty far away from the festival, it seemed. Turning her head, she noticed that Celestine was the one who called out for her. Wiping her eyes quickly, she stood up and brushed the sand off the back of her outfit. She tried to regain her entire composure just as quickly, but that was a futile endeavor. "H-hey, Celestine. What's going on? I thought you and Diago were hanging out at the festival," the girl said nonchalantly as if trying to strike up casual conversation. In the distance, she noticed not many people were celebrating, but instead forming a solitary crowd on the shore. She could make out the figures of Masq and Diago...and some other guy. And was that a Sinerian talking to them? Her gazed drifted to the waters and she shrieked at the sight of the dead serpent there. With its size, it was easy to make out. "A-ah! Wh-what is that?! Was there another attack?" she asked in a panic. She hadn't heard anything over sound of her own crying and the world of despair that had consumed her entirely. She should have went and helped, but had chosen to let herself wallow about in feelings of guilt and anguish. A blush of shame crossed her face and she wiped her eyes and cheeks some more, though she could still feel the tearstains upon her face.

Eebit · Eebit, Aug 16, 2012 at 6:28 AM

The mayor had been curt and as courteous as Diago had come to expect from the race of the small Sinerians. He smiled as she returned his handshake in equal politeness, lips curving upwards into some sort of half-smile, half-smirk. Her grip had been fairly loose; not that it particularly mattered to the man. After all, her hands were at the very most about half of the size of his own. He retreated a couple steps, as though to get a better vantage point of all parties present. Rick. Masquerade. The Mayor. The Sinerians of Rizen-dae. It was a significant amount to take in after the whorl of events that had taken place on the day. Rick spoke again, heartily chuckling. The sound of his voice was almost raspy - powerful, as one would expect from someone so grizzled and toughened up by the waves of the sea. Diago beamed in sheer admiration. The wind had died down, so that his hair was covering up the starstricken look in his violet eyes. "You've definitely got one incredible aim on you. Amazing fighting... I'd definitely love to go fishing with you sometime... but maybe once I've gotten my bearings a tad." He chuckled on his own. It was clear that Diago had a long way to go before being even half as talented as the man in front of him...

But this only made Diago smile wider. It was the sort of adventure like this that he hoped would, in turn, lead him a much stronger life. The life that he wanted to live. He had rushed into this sort of thing before, with Celestine, but it had never quite led to the sort of circumstances that it had now.

With Masq, Celestine, and Clarissia at his side...

But then again...

He rememebered the circumstances leading up to the attack from the Serpent. He turned his head slightly to look at Masq, who had almost seemed to meld off to the side, absent in all but physical presence. The man's coal-black hair was ruffled from his incredible show of saving the Sinerian child. His face seemed almost expressionless, as though the adrenaline flow had entirely passed through him once he had relaxed. Shit... He almost wanted to comfort the man further, but it seemed that he just wanted his own space. He surely just wanted the night to end... And who could blame him? Diago grimaced, chest falling from the surge of sudden excitement. It pained him seeing his new friend like this...

The Mayor asked about the other two ambassadors. "Well, I'm sure it didn't seem like an important detail in the middle of everything going on over here," he nervously laughed. The Mayor made him a touch uncomfortable; he did not want to get on her bad side, of course. Especially considering they planned to try and approach this diplomatically. Something Celestine had said rang in his ears. 'Don't be so rash, Diago. Think about things...' his cheeks reddened slightly, though it was a minor involuntary action that would likely go unnoticed due to the reddish glow cast by the remaining torches of the festival. "I can go look for them. They can't have gone far." The rogue looked at Masq, who had managed to speak. "I'll be back in a flash." He said, more to his friend than anyone else in the immediate company.

And with that, he walked slowly away, glancing down the beach. After getting past the complicated dance of varying levels of pressure left over from the brief skirmish with the Curse Serpent, the footprints faded away to reveal a pair of mismatching prints, just noticeable in the sand. One pair had begun to vanish due to the water, and the other was much more recent. Celestine. He thought, and continued ploddingly down the beach. He was, after all, in no rush to be in the awkward spotlight of speaking with the Mayor. He yelled out into the distance, startling the nature around him, "Celestine? Clarissia? Are you out there?!"

---

Celestine let out a deep sigh, finally having caught her breath after sprinting the distance in order to make up for the head-start that Clarissia had gotten in the scramble back at the remains of a festival gone awry. The night... it had fallen like a sheet from the skies, and with it had appeared the Curse Serpent again. Celestine shuddered visibly, as though something cold had crept up her back and was now breathing warmly on her neck. She turned away for a second. "Well... I'd use the term 'hanging out' sort of loosely..." She stared blankly up at the sky for a moment, as though searching for some celestial guidance that would lend her the words to recount the events. "Yes. The serpent came back." The carcass of the monstrosity that seemed to perenially plague this land was, in fact, clearly visible. The blood it had released was a blanket of crimson staining the beachfront area where the festivities and the mirthful, oblivious joy of the Sinerians had been just minutes before. The solemn silence left after Celestine's last comment hung powerfully in the air, giving a ringing in her ears. In a hushed whisper, she slowly continued, "A man from the sea... nobody really saw him coming, I think. He felled the beast with ease - a far cry from our efforts back at the Falls..." She almost spat out the word 'beast,' as though it were hot on her tongue and she needed to release the word with utmost haste.

The older girl shrugged. "That's unimportant, though. Are you...?" she gestured, almost unnoticeably, to silently ask if the other girl was unharmed in the midst of all of the chaotic downspiraling that had happened recently... though between the tears staining her face and the almost gasping sobs escaping her mouth, it was pretty obvious that something else had happened. Not a terrorizing serpent, perhaps, but Celestine knowingly reached her arms out to comfort the younger Clarissia. "If you don't want to say... I understand. Just let it out, if you so need to..." The girl was warm in her arms, still seemingly shaken by whatever it was that had caused her to fall to such a state. Oh... I hope I didn't make a mess of things... She thought to herself, almost dizzy with the feeling of guilt rising up within her. It hurt her heart so to have interjected herself in between to friends in an effort to (in her eyes) give them a hand... It was too soon... too soon...

The words echoed throughout her head as nothing but the dying sobs and the distant sounds of Sinerian wildlife and those speaking far away by torchlight could be heard.

But a few seconds later, a call broke through the silence of the night. "Celestine? Clarissia? Are you out there?!" Diago! Celestine thought instantly, slowly relinquishing her embrace of Clarissia. She turned her head over her shoulder; his silhouette was still fairly distant. "We're here!" she called, almost hollowly. "We're here..." she repeated, this time much quieter, as though reassuring herself that she was still physically present. The young man broke into a jog, making his way to the two of them. "Are you two alright?" he asked, genuine concern evident in his voice after the attack of the Serpent. "The Mayor... she's back at the festival. She wants to meet us and..." he looked at Clarissia, voice trailing off. She bore a similar look of anguish to what the man he had turned away from had worn moments prior. "Did I interrupt something...?"

Celestine simply awarded him with nothing less than a blank, harsh stare.

Masquerade · Masquerade, Aug 17, 2012 at 12:15 AM

The mayor sighed as she watched Diago run off to gather the other two ambassadors. She turned to her people and gave them all a hardened glare. "I would ask that you all return to your homes!" she commanded loudly causing the crowd to murmur just a bit. Some were already filtering out of the area. "Things have grown too dangerous this night for festivities. Go!" The authority in her voice was ultimate and the small Sinerians began to actually run away as if the serpent were still alive or something. They didn't scream, but they certainly didn't waste any more time on the lake shore. Only a few Sinerians lingered to quell some open fires and gather up their instruments before promptly taking their leave. Evoking the wrath of the mayor was not a good idea no matter who you were. She turned her gaze, a bit softer now, to Masq. She said nothing, but instead began to dread the conversation she would be forced to have with these ambassadors. The problem was obvious; the serpent had appeared somewhere in Lasala, and Old Dalen had figured out that it was a Sinerian problem. There was no point in delaying the inevitable. "Young man, I know why you and your compatriots are here," she said firmly.

Masq seemed a bit taken aback by the woman's words. His attention had been drawn by the rest of the Sinerian people departing the area. The hazard was indeed too great this night. However, the musician couldn't help but to feel a bit irked at this woman. If she knew there was a problem, why were they not taking care of it? "Yes, I see. It's...a bit more complicated. I was a witness to the serpent attack that occurred at Raym Falls back in Lasala, along with the ambassadors that came here as well. Your actions...we can understand a dispute just fine, but when other regions start to suffer, that's when it becomes a problem." He had hoped he didn't sound too harsh. He wasn't looking for a fight, but his stance needed to be as firm as his resolve. There was not an inch to be given in this situation.

"And what would you have us do about it?" the mayor replied lightly, crossing her tiny arms across her chest. She raised an eyebrow quizzically, almost challengingly.

"Remedy things with Saturn. That's the only way," Masq stated simply, even though he knew that this situation was not one that could be that easily rectified. However, they needed to get something started. For every second they delayed in negotiations with their god, there was a chance that someone could die because of their pride, selfishness, and carelessness. As tolerant as Masq was, he would not stand for endangering so many lives, especially the lives of their own people. How could they not see that change was needed?

"I can tell that you know that is easier said than done," the mayor replied, slightly amused. A smirk formed on her face. "It cannot happen. We have rejected him to the point where he'd rather have us dead. However, if someone unaffiliated with him or us were to go and speak to him in our place, perhaps something could be worked out," she explained. She didn't figure it was too much to ask for. It was better than sending a squad of Sinerians to negotiate. They would probably be eliminated as soon as they stuck foot in Saturn's domain. The ambassadors, however, would still be in danger of elimination, but less so than a group of Sinerians. There was essentially nothing they could do. This was the only plan that had any chance of working.

Rick tapped his foot against the sand, a disconcerted look crossing his rugged and handsome face. "You're goin' to send them off to the Pinnacle?" His eyes sharpened as he gazed down at the mayor. He shouldn't have been surprised, and in reality, his question was more rhetorical than anything. Of course things had become that bad, and of course drastic measures were needed as a result. Still, anyone venturing to the throne of an angry god would find their very souls at risk. Rick didn't like the idea of sending these innocent ambassadors up to the Pinnacle were Saturn resided.

"No, that's fine," Masq quickly interjected. He was grateful that Rick was sticking up for them, but there really was no need. "It's a good thing that I figured it would come to this from the very beginning," the musician added confidently. He appeared much stronger now than he had when he was crying just prior to the serpent attack. It was imperative that he show up the mayor for whatever reason. They were issues of their pride. It was pride that landed the Sinerians in the situation they were in, and now Masq sought to wound it somehow. If people outside of Sineria solved their problems, how much would that hurt them? They weren't strong enough or diplomatic enough to deal with it themselves, so they had to rely on others to get the job done. A brutal sting to their egos, it would be for sure. Hopefully it would be enough to prevent problems in the future, but with how stubborn the Sinerians were, there was no telling.

"I'm glad you're up to the task. I'll send you off to the Pinnacle when your allies return. I do hope you are prepared," the mayor said, nodding her head in affirmation.

The words coming out of Celestine's mouth were astonishing. Clarissia found herself trembling at the thought of someone single-handedly taking down such a vicious creature. However, it seemed the attack of the serpent didn't seem to be Celestine's prime concern. She felt the woman embrace her and didn't fight back. The tears had stopped flowing, but her cheeks were stained with them. She hated the feeling of it on her skin. "I-I'm fine," the girl replied reassuringly. True be it that it was obvious she was distressed, but she didn't feel like talking about that now. It was nice of Celestine to worry about her, but the serpent was priority number one to her. Luckily, Diago came running up from afar, and she felt Celestine release her allowing her to step back. He mentioned something about the mayor waiting for them on the shore in the distance. Clarissia gazed down the strip of sand and realized that the people had gone. There were only a few lingering behind. She couldn't tell what they were doing, but it looked like they were doing some cleaning up or something.

"N-no, you weren't interrupting anything, Diago," Clarissia said with a lighthearted laugh, genuinely joyed for some reason. She wiped away the tears from her face and straightened her outfit a bit before taking a deep breath to recompose herself for good. Giving the rogue a determined gaze, she nodded. "You said the mayor was waiting right? We probably shouldn't keep her waiting." With that, she took off dashing across the shore back to where the festival was held before it was interrupted. As she ran, she didn't look back. She didn't want to be stopped. She didn't want to be asked about what had happened. She wanted something to keep her mind off of what happened this night, even if it meant going back to Masq whom she thought she would not be able to face again, and perhaps she wouldn't be able to face him. It would take all of her willpower not to burst into tears again, and the guilt would bring the crimson blush to her face--a blush of shame. She had broken that man's heart and there was no excuse for it.

No excuse.

Eebit · Eebit, Aug 22, 2012 at 8:51 AM

Celestine saw Clarissia seem to take an apprehensive step backwards from her, retreating slightly into the night's grasp. As though the light of the moon would provide her with the comfort that human touch could no longer satisfy. Her still-damp face was glinting with the winking mirth of the watchful eye in the sky, high above. Oh, lady moon... why do you torment us so? Her thoughts wavered to it. Perhaps she lamented love-loss herself - eternally a reflection of something that was thought to be so bright... so cheerful... so warming. The sinking feeling that consumed Celestine's inner being was almost unquenchable. She looked downward, ashamed to have gone off on her own little mental tangent with two people who were supposedly her friends in her direct presence... But how can she consider me a friend after having done this to her...? And Masq... she remembered his glowing expression, clear to see in the dying sunlight. Oh, how the moon had caused for the turn in emotions. From warmth and passion and excitement to the cool, harsh rejection. Celestine stifled a sob. Thinking like this was going to get her all wound up... and it was not something she could cry about. It wasn't her rejecting someone who loved her. How could she pretend that she could comfort the girl, when this was ground she was afraid to tread in herself...?

And Diago. Oh, Diago... He had been so kind to her, always. The time she spent with him on their way to Raym Falls... all the way until now. It all seemed like such a blur... Could this be why he had called her on this adventure? Was he harbouring some sort of powerful, deep secret like the one Masquerade had unloaded this very night? A jolt in her stomach made her wince and look away. The simple thought pained her. She could only imagine what was going through Clarissia's mind now...

An eerie, awkward silence filled the air, as Diago glanced back and forth between the two girls. Both not daring to look the other in the eye, as though he had brought about something shameful. "Well uhh... I can go and tell them you guys wil-" he was instantly cut off by Celestine. "NO! ... No. That's alright, Diago..." she started to say, before Clarissia finished her own sentence. The older girl nodded weakly, as though she had little more to say. She was still averting her gaze, which struck Diago as... odd, to say the least. He would have expected the two to have been fast friends, not waging some secret, underground war. She just seemed so... distant. What's been UP with her tonight...? She's been so on-edge... Before he could open his mouth to speak anymore, they seemed to already be raring to get back to the main site of where the shambles of the festivities remained.

It was certainly a quiet walk... a slow, agonizing walk of nothing but deafening silence to fill Diago's ears, and certainly the ears of the two girls as well. It was hard for him to bear the silence, but it felt... awkward. Clunky, even, to bring up conversation at a time like this. He had seen the look in Masquerade's eyes when the composer had confided the secret of his tears to him. Perhaps that was what made the tension so great, like the strings of the man's violin? Diago could only guess... but he tried nonetheless to lighten the mood with the conversation that he so dreaded. "So... guess we're not celebrating tonight?" He rubbed the back of his head, sheepishly as usual. He knew he was awful with the conversation and the small talk, much preferring to let his actions do the talking... but he just could not bear the accursed silence between the three who were supposedly friends any longer.

Celestine spoke first, regardless of whether or not Clarissia had a piece to say. "Diago, it's not the time for that, I think..." Though she began forcefully in her tone, almost chastising the poor boy for his efforts. She turned her head midway through the sentence to face him, seeing the look of sheepishness and desperation on his face, and conceded by wavering in her tone, finishing the sentence meekly so that her voice was nary more than a squeak. She let out a sigh. "No... I-I... suppose not." She said, obliging his sudden-seeming thirst for conversation. The closer they got to the grounds of the festival, the more Celestine dreaded having to face Masquerade for having given the man her advice... which had gone awry. Miserably awry. Her violet eyes were very deep with worry, as could easily be read by the expression plastered on her face. Her dress swayed in the wind as she slowed down in her pace... before coming to an abrupt halt. She spun to Clarissia, with an almost pleading look on her face. "Please... don't be mad at him... he didn't do anything. It was me. I told him to tell you... I'm so sorry." She started off whispering, and barely managed to stammer out the last part before crumpling to her knees. Diago stopped, turning his head back to see the older girl almost begging for some forgiveness. Over what...? he wondered, walking over to her himself.

"Celestine... it'll be okay. Let's just get back. I think it's just been a long day for everyone..." He said, softly. Lifting the girl to her feet, he supported her, waving for Clarissia to move on ahead. 'We can catch up...' he mouthed to the girl, holding Celestine close as she choked out small tears. Diago was unsure of what to do, but before long, the girl seemed to regain her composure. "It'll be alright..." he cooed in her ear, trying to make everything alright for the both of them. He stepped lightly forward, trying to urge her along. He did not want to have to leave Masquerade and Clarissia alone with the Mayor... it simply seemed strange. He was unsure of how their mission would be dealt with, or even compromised, in the event that the goings-on of the humans were getting in the way.

Do Sinerians even have relationships...? Diago wondered, idly. With their attention spans, it seemed almost... He shook his head. Why was he thinking that, of all things, at this very moment? Obviously the most important thing he had was right in his arms, and he was ignoring her. "Celestine... what happened? You know... back there." He gazed down at her with a look of concern. Her eyes were decidedly red from the tears that had so suddenly broken free of the dam that was her emotional wall. He held her stare, before sighing lightly. "It's okay. Forget I said anything. Let's just..." he motioned towards Clarissia and Masq, as well as the Mayor. Celestine wordlessly picked herself up, out of Diago's arms. It felt almost... saddening to relinquish the girl from his arms. Diago grimaced, and stood up himself. He swayed slightly, steadying himself after holding the position he was in for the past couple of minutes... though it seemed both longer and shorter than that.

Time is a cruel mistress... he thought to himself, sagely. It was a rare moment for him to catch a wise thought full-on.

The pair finally met up with the Mayor and their friends. Nobody spoke for a couple moments... until Diago finally broke the silence, impatient through all of the whirlwind of conflicting emotions. He had weathered the storm thus far, but he was running out of patience. It had been a long day for all of them, and he was not sure if continuing on for more would be a good idea until the night's end. Perhaps travelling at the break of day would be a better idea...? A tinge of said impatience laced the rogue's voice as he vocalized the question on everyone's mind...

"What now?"

Masquerade · Masquerade, Aug 23, 2012 at 3:41 AM

Clarissia made sure to keep her lead on Diago and Celestine, slowing down her pace a bit when she realized they weren't in a terrible rush which was okay. She kept her distance while Diago tried to stir up conversation, but everything that came out was tainted by the somber atmosphere in which the whole night seemed to be saturated. There was no room for mirth or cheer. Not anymore. What had been such a festive time had dissolved completely into a miserable whirlpool of heartbreak and terror from the threat of the curse serpent. They continued on with Clarissia in the lead who was intent not to say anything. She really hadn't had enough alone time, and that was all she wanted to be right now: alone. However, as things became so dire, it appeared that a bit of time to herself would be too much to ask for. She didn't slow down when she heard commotion behind her, but she did sigh and turn her head long enough to catch Diago mouthing for her to just keep going which she had planned to do regardless, though she was worried about Celestine. She couldn't fathom what could possibly be wrong with her now, granted the night seemed to be taking an immense toll on each and every one of them. Thoughts of having to face Masq began surging through her mind, and she already knew that he would have pulled it together in order to do the negotiations with the mayor. He'd look like he always did, but inside she'd know there was naught but pain--pain that she caused him.

I wonder if he could ever forgive me. I just want us to be able to stay friends, Clarissia thought solemnly to herself. The sight of a rather regal-looking Sinerian who must have been the mayor, Masq, and some other guy who looked like a fisherman approached fast and soon she would be among them. Already she could feel tension draped about her shoulders like a thick shawl. Her feet stopped moving when she drew near enough to them. "Sorry for being so difficult to fine. I needed to be alone for a bit," she explained herself quietly, though Masq knew exactly why she had disappeared. Clarissia faced the mayor and nodded her head to the short woman. "You must be the mayor. My name is Clarissia. It's a pleasure to meet you. The others will be here shortly." She turned her head to see that Celestine had recovered and her and Diago were now approaching as well.

The mayor gave her an affirming smile but said nothing until the other two ambassadors joined them. The plan had been set, and she was more than happy to relate it when Diago asked the inevitable. "It has been determined that since it is too dangerous for any Sinerian to negotiate with Saturn, you ambassadors will be going to the Pinnacle as our representatives in the hopes that Saturn will be less willing to destroy you than he would any of us," the mayor explained simply as if the plan were to be extremely reasonable despite the extensive danger. However, she had made it clear that this was their only hope, and since the other regions were in danger as well, they may as well work to resolve the problem in this way.

"Yes, I hope that is all right with everyone, but our hands are tied," Masq said sadly, frowning. His gaze fell upon the mayor. "How exactly do we get to Saturn though? Where is he?" He had heard them mention 'the Pinnacle' several times, but he had never heard of such a place during his travels which was odd for he had visited nearly every region. Surely he would have come across it or at least word of it. Back when he had visited Sineria before, talk of Saturn was minimal let alone the place where he resided, so he didn't even hear about it then.

"Easy. Saturn lives in the Pinnacle. Look above you," the mayor said without gazing into the sky herself. Wavering in an odd distortion in the night sky, there appeared a strange, upside-down mountain with a large rectangular entrance in the mountainside. The mayor snapped your fingers. "As to how you shall get there..." Everything seemed to twist and turn and warp in the eyes of each of the ambassadors. The colors faded in parts while growing more vibrant in others, and then mixed together in weird patterns such that it didn't even look like they were on the shore of the lake any longer. And they weren't. The mayor was gazing at the empty spaces in the sand where the ambassadors had been moments prior. "Good luck, ambassadors of Lasala. I do believe you will need it." With that, she nodded to Rick who just stood there dumbfounded. She knew that he was adamantly against this plan, but what else could be done? He would get over it, just as she would, for she didn't particularly like having others take care of her own problems and the problems of her people. But this was the time to let pride go, or at least to loosen her grip on it. It was for the safety of her, her people, and the world.

* * *

Masq felt like he was tripping on something as the colors of his reality began melding together such that shapes didn't even exist anymore. He felt sick to his stomach and his body felt displaced from everything. It was just him and the others in a vortex of swirling colors. His thoughts were completely scrambled, and he severely hoped that the others were faring better than he was. Eventually, and fortunately, Masq began feeling some sort of order forming around him. The colors seemed more...real as they started reforming. Shapes became evident once again, and when Masq was able to blink a few more times, he realized he was in a new place that was definitely not the shore of Lake Anitia. Standing up slowly, Masq realized that he was standing in some sort of hall. The scene behind him was a key to him figuring out that he and the others were inside a mountain passage, for the entrance was just off in the distance, while the hall delved deeper into the mountain. The composer remembered gazing up at the weird upside-down mountain in the sky before completely losing his sense of reality. The mayor mentioned that it was the Pinnacle--the place where Saturn sat upon his throne to rule over Sineria. As such, it must have meant that they were in the Pinnacle now. The mayor must have sent them there somehow. How she managed such a feat, he had no idea. All that mattered was that they had a mission now, and there was no escaping it.

"G-guys?" Clarissia questioned aloud, her voice echoing off the walls of the hall. It seemed that the area was lit by torches on the wall that continued on as far as the hall did. However, the stone floor and walls nor the torches were the focus of Clarissia's attention right now. She dearly hoped that the others were okay, but she didn't have the chance to ask because they were now in deep trouble. She pointed ahead of them to two humanoid beings wearing silver armor. Their bodies were naught but silhouettes that looked like cuts out of the night sky shaped like people. They wielded threatening, nondescript swords that they didn't look afraid to use. Behind them was a floating sphere of light that shined so brightly, and yet remained tainted with a strange aura of darkness--just a faint mist that trickled around its form. It looked...corrupted.

Masq's thoughts were still muddled from the trip, but he heard Clarissia's voice and he grew immensely wary when he noticed what she was pointing out. Reaching behind him, he flipped open his case and whipped out his violin and bow. "We'll take a break after this. It looks like Saturn isn't too intent to have us intruding in his home," the musician said forcefully, definitely taking charge even though his balance was still extremely shaky. He hoped he could hold out until he managed to fully get himself together.

Chapter 01: Arrival

Location: The Pinnacle - Entrance

Objective: Defeat all enemies!

Background: ~Kiri~

{w} {w} {w} {w} {w} {w} {w} {w} {w} A
{ } {t} { } { } {t} { } { } {t} { } B
{ } { } { } { } { } { } { } { } { } C
{ } { } {C} { } { } { } {O} { } { } D
{ } { } { } { } { } { } { } { } {C} E
{ } { } { } { } { } { } {G} { } { } F
{M} { } { } { } { } { } { } { } { } G
{ } { } { } { } { } { } { } { } { } H
{ } {t} { } { } {t} { } { } {t} { } I
{w} {w} {w} {w} {w} {w} {w} {w} {w} J
-1---2---3---4---5---6---7---8---9

Masquerade (Composer)
HP: 15/15
MP: 30/30
DD: 0/10
Atk: 1
Def: 3
Int: 7
Spr: 4
Evade: 1%
Move: 2 cells

Clarissia (Dancer)
HP: 20/20
MP: 25/25
DD: 0/10
Atk: 5
Def: 2
Int: 3
Spr: 3
Evade: 5%
Move: 4 cells

Cruxor (Fallen Star)
HP: 35/35
MP: 55/55
DD: --/--
Atk: 3
Def: 4
Int: 10
Spr: 5
Evade: 1%
Move: 2 cells

Otul (Astra Knight)
HP: 40/40
MP: 20/20
DD: --/--
Atk: 7
Def: 4
Int: 2
Spr: 3
Evade: 3%
Move: 3 cells

Galvan (Astra Knight)
HP: 40/40
MP: 20/20
DD: --/--
Atk: 7
Def: 4
Int: 2
Spr: 3
Evade: 3%
Move: 3 cells

{w} - Wall (cannot be occupied)

{t} - Torch (cannot be occupied)

Players may start in columns 1-3!

Eebit · Eebit, Sep 10, 2012 at 3:04 AM

{Diago starts at G3}
{Celestine starts at E2}

Diago grit his teeth in a mild state of frustration, grinding them together in an almost impatient way. It would seem that, instead of resting to work off the incredible turn of events - and not to mention the sheer amount of travelling that had been done - the group would be setting off to the 'Pinnacle,' something the rogue had little to no knowledge of. Go figure. His clenched teeth relaxed slightly when he let himself recall that such was the life of adventure that he had always dreamed of... though he worried for the others. It was quite clear that Celestine was harbouring some feeling that had simply bubbled over at the wrong time. Clarissia seemed to be reserved within herself - something that conflicted immensely with her typically-cheery and bubbly demeanour. Masq himself also seemed quiet... but this was almost what Diago had come to expect from the composer. He was calculating the situation, silently planning... or perhaps some other machinations were brewing within his mind.

They needed rest. The emotional fatigue was going to set in on them soon. If nothing was done, it would slowly end up as a futile effort. But... they were ambassadors. It would be impossible to back down from the request now. Just as Diago was going to assert that they needed the night's rest, Masquerade interjected. The rogue stared at him with a withering gaze that he had not intended to be quite so forceful, and muttered under his breath, "He's right." It was definitely not how the night was intended to end. Louder, he spoke again. "As much as I feel we need this time to rest..." he glanced nervously at his companions, who each seemed to show no sign of backing down from the task, or were averting their eyes entirely, "Saturn must be reasoned with. The situation grows more dangerous..." he trailed off, casting a sidelong glance at the Curse Serpent that lay motionless and bleeding on the shoreline. It was needless to say that his sentence would have finished with 'as each night passes.'

Celestine coughed awkwardly at the sight. It was clear that the night's events had had quite the effect on her, and she was only just now beginning to settle down from her realization of what she had done. The mayor asked them to look up, and Celestine was stricken with awe at the strange sight above her. ...How did I not see this earlier? Diago reached over to her and grasped her arm. She felt his grip - warm, reassuring, comforting. As though he could understand her thoughts. She blushed sheepishly and looked into the sand once again. The mayor spoke again, trailing off. Celestine glanced up at her, as the colours and shapes became less defined. She shivered rapidly, feeling Diago relinquish his grip on her arm. Everything became a blur. A prismatic array unfolding around her as everything faded into itself. The world was a frenzy of light, colour... it scared the girl. Not knowing how else to react, she screamed out...

"DIAGOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOooooooooooooooooo!"

He winced, hearing his name called out but no longer being able to feel her at his side. The sand beneath his feet had collapsed. He had no idea how to react, and so... he did not. The period of time which he was experiencing this strange sensation of floating seemed to be endless and yet instantaneous. Both taking an eternity and ending all too soon. It was truly bizarre. He was suddenly very conscious of the feeling of solid ground beneath his feet, as he collapsed to the ground - his legs not yet ready to support any weight from his body. As he lay in a sort of half-crouch, he became painfully aware of just how naked and... normal he felt. The stony cold of the floor beneath him was so different from the sand of the shores in Rizen-dae. He looked around, as his vision slowly adjusted to the low light. Masq was present behind him... and...

"G-guys?" Clarissia. The voice of the girl rang true throughout the strange, gaping maw of a hallway they seemed to be standing in, seizing his attention. Diago was immediately reaching for his katana - rusted as it was - and arming himself. "The hell are those things...?" He could hardly discern their forms. Outlined by the radiant light, he could see that they were armed as well. Perhaps this was the Pinnacle that the mayor spoke of...? If so, it was clear that he had been expecting to have visitors... and they were not exactly welcomed in his domain.

Celestine stood in between Clarissia and Diago, slightly back from the immediate fray. If they needed backup, she would certainly provide it. The astrologist noted the appearance of the adversaries they faced - almost like stars, armed to the teeth and standing in their path. If Saturn can make even the stars his warriors... what does that say for us...? She grimaced in a mild despair, the same one that she had yet to overcome, but she shook her head. Her blonde hair waved and shimmered in the light cast outwards by the spherical... thing in front of her as she attempted to clear her mind. It was all happening so fast...

We've got our work cut out for us...

Masquerade · Masquerade, Sep 10, 2012 at 5:25 PM

Chapter 01: Arrival

Location: The Pinnacle - Entrance

Objective: Defeat all enemies!

Background: ~Kiri~

{w} {w} {w} {w} {w} {w} {w} {w} {w} A
{ } {t} { } { } {t} { } { } {t} { } B
{ } { } { } { } { } { } { } { } { } C
{ } { } {C} { } { } { } {O} { } { } D
{ } {E} { } { } { } { } { } { } {C} E
{ } { } { } { } { } { } {G} { } { } F
{M} { } {D} { } { } { } { } { } { } G
{ } { } { } { } { } { } { } { } { } H
{ } {t} { } { } {t} { } { } {t} { } I
{w} {w} {w} {w} {w} {w} {w} {w} {w} J
-1---2---3---4---5---6---7---8---9

Masquerade (Composer) *MELODIC SOUL [2]*
HP: 15/15
MP: 30/30
DD: 0/10
Atk: 1
Def: 3
Int: 7
Spr: 4
Evade: 1%
Move: 2 cells

Clarissia (Dancer)
HP: 20/20
MP: 25/25
DD: 0/10
Atk: 5
Def: 2
Int: 3
Spr: 3
Evade: 5%
Move: 4 cells

Diago (Rogue)
HP: 25/25
MP: 20/20
DD: 4/10
Atk: 7
Def: 4
Int: 2
Spr: 4
Evade: 5%
Move: 4 cells

Celestine (Astrologist)
HP: 20/20
MP: 30/30
DD: 0/10
Atk: 1
Def: 4
Int: 6
Spr: 3
Evade: 1%
Move: 2 cells

Cruxor (Fallen Star)
HP: 35/35
MP: 55/55
DD: --/--
Atk: 3
Def: 4
Int: 10
Spr: 5
Evade: 1%
Move: 2 cells

Otul (Astra Knight)
HP: 40/40
MP: 20/20
DD: --/--
Atk: 7
Def: 4
Int: 2
Spr: 3
Evade: 3%
Move: 3 cells

Galvan (Astra Knight)
HP: 40/40
MP: 20/20
DD: --/--
Atk: 7
Def: 4
Int: 2
Spr: 3
Evade: 3%
Move: 3 cells

{w} - Wall (cannot be occupied)

{t} - Torch (cannot be occupied)

Player Phase 1!

Masquerade moves to F1.

"They're warriors of Saturn!" Masq spoke up to Diago in a hurried tone all of a sudden, his voice much louder than he had intended. Said warriors would show them no mercy. They were most likely inorganic creatures programmed to carry out Saturn's will which meant they were immune to the emotional faculties typically possessed by creatures capable of rational thoughts like humans. This was something serious, and with Saturn as pissed as he was, there was no way this would end well if they didn't give it their all. Masq sidled over so he had a clean shot at one of the knightly beings. Raising his violin to its playing position, he placed the bow upon the strings and began to rapidly play, the notes coming out short and sharp, fiery hot. The heat around him seemed to intensify and the strings were set ablaze. "Now, the power of music shows its fiery side!" The heat becoming too dangerous to keep so close to his face, Masq stopped playing and swung the violin through the air in front of him sending a blazing stream of fire straight forward, hopefully taking the knight in his sights completely unaware. After all, did Saturn know what they were truly capable of? Masq didn't know if this particular god was omniscient, but the deity at least knew they had arrived at the Pinnacle with a mission, granted it was meant to be a peaceful one.

"I just hope the fact that the Sinerians sent us doesn't rub Saturn the wrong way," Masq said, his voice and tone dropping the vigor it possessed before. They had to make the most out of this trip because there was no coming back. They would succeed...or they would die.

Masq uses Searing String on Galvan! 7 Fire Dmg! (INT) [Chance of Burn]

MP: 22/30

Clarissia moves to E6.

Clarissia drew in a sharp breath. Hearing Masq take charge and hop into the midst of battle the way he did made the shame burn her from the inside out. How could he be so strong after what had happened before at the lake shore? And here she was still immensely distraught by the occurrence. Could she really handle herself? N-no point...in dwelling on i-it... More tears threatened to break free, but she would NOT have it. Not now. A fire wavered in her gaze amidst the watering, and she dashed forth towards Saturn's minions with no regard. Stopping before the two knight-like beings, she felt the power of Masq's music inspire her next move. She raised a single leg out so that it was nearly perpendicular with her body which was now perfectly balanced upon a single leg. Twisting slightly back, she performed two pirouettes, her outstretched leg smacking the knights easily once, and then again of course. She lowered her leg and stood strong and firm...at least from the back. Her face was still a portrait of confusion, her eyes a battlefield for the fires of determination and the sea of agony that fought endlessly within her. The break that Masq mentioned sounded promising. It was the only thing that kept her going because being shoved into battle with the way things were was probably the worst thing that could have happened.

"I...I don't care who you serve or what your purpose is, but I'll take you down one by one if I have to," Clarissia whispered to the beings in front of her, glowering at them with mixed resolve. She had no idea how big the Pinnacle was. Where on earth would they even find Saturn? Was he at the summit? Or in some kind of hidden chamber perhaps? She didn't look forward to the prospect of having to search for him, but the sooner they found him, the better.

Clarissia uses Tourner Deux! Hits Otul and Galvan! 2 hits! 5 Dmg per hit! (ATK)

R-Ability Background Music activates! [MP Cost -50%]

MP: 18/25

Eebit · Eebit, Sep 13, 2012 at 7:50 AM

{Celestine uses Leo, the Lion on Diago (G3)! Bestows Bravery!}
{Celestine's S-Ability Generosity activates! MP Cost reduced by 25%!}
<MP: 24/30>
{Celestine moves to E3 [E2 - E3]}

{Diago moves to G7 [G3 - G4 - G5 - G6 - G7]}
{Diago basic attacks Galvan (F7)! 2 Hits! 11 ATK Damage (each hit)!}

"Warriors of Saturn?" Diago growled out, repeating Masq's statement. "So he's expecting us...?" he shook his head, looking disdainful. How long would they need to be climbing this Pinnacle now? He had no way of knowing... it was so surreal. A new battleground for them, in place of fighting the Curse Serpent for two nights in a row. Saturn is bringing the fight to us... with proxies. Pitiful. Diago shrugged, relaxing. He gazed over to Celestine, before a bolt of fire raced between them. Diago jumped backwards slightly, caught off guard. He looked for the source... and immediately saw that it was the charcoal-haired musician, playing another song for them. This time, however, it seemed to embody the fire... Of course! The rogue grinned, glancing back at him. In spite of everything, Diago found it utterly hilarious that Masq had almost singed him alive. However, it was absolutely no time for joking and messing around. He resumed his purposeful gaze on Celestine, hoping she would grant him with her strength. Her blessing. Allowing him to fight further...

Celestine watched idly as Clarissia launched into an attack on the two star-warriors. She was in awe of the continual air of gracefulness that the dancing girl portrayed, even while flying rapidly into the heat of the battle. Still feeling guilty about her actions from beforehand, the astrologist grimaced as she watched the dancer kick outwards, with an intensive vigour. She's channeling her emotions into the dance, no doubt... She strained her ears to hear the girl speak, only just catching narrowly the ghastly whispers of the echo from the expansive hallway they stood within... Clarissia was right - they had to take down these guardians... whatever it took. With that thought about her, Celestine looked to Diago. He seemed to be watching her, almost with a certain amount of expectancy. "Oh... right." She nodded to him, before shutting her eyes firmly...

The picture of the burning Lion was fierce in her mind's eye. An otherworldly, warming glow against the blackness of her inner eyelids. It was strange, seeing the constellation come to life in her mind as she prayed for a blessing to be once again bestowed to Diago. Leo... provide us with your great strength... Allow us to progress with our mission of finding peace between the scorned deity Saturn and his people... The Lion roared in response - something that made her wince backwards as her hair fell upon her face. A slight gasp escaped her lips as she opened her eyes. Diago was glowing with the same red aura of the Lion, signifying to the girl that she had succeeded in her prayer. She gave a curt nod to Diago before stepping forward, readying herself to embrace the battle's flow.

The rogue, however, took a very different approach from Clarissia. Instead of immediately blitzing the enemies and attracting their attention, he sidled along the edge of the hallway, taking care to move soundlessly. His clothes did not ruffle, and his footfalls were so quiet that one would need to be focusing on nothing but them in order to hear. He approached, before diving immediately into an attack, feeling full and confident. He jabbed into the closest knight, careful to not hit the spinning Clarissia, and plunged his katana into the depths of the seeming construct. Whatever 'warrior of Saturn' this is... s'not gonna slow us down for long. He pulled out a singular shrike, and dug it down the outer shell of the guardian, raking its skin with the four points. The red aura that empowered him left a light glaze of the same hue where the weapon had just been. Diago grinned, wickedly. "Show us what you've got, Saturn. If it's a fight you want... we'll bring it to ya." Despite their peaceful intentions, Diago was not in any disposition to deal with hindrances such as these guards.

Not now. Not after tonight. We all need rest... and we cannot be peaceful with the God if we cannot be peaceful with each other.

Masquerade · Masquerade, Sep 13, 2012 at 8:20 PM

Otul takes 2 Dmg!

HP: 38/40

Galvan takes 20 Dmg!

HP: 20/40

Galvan evades Burn!

Chapter 01: Arrival

Location: The Pinnacle - Entrance

Objective: Defeat all enemies!

Background: ~Kiri~

{w} {w} {w} {w} {w} {w} {w} {w} {w} A
{ } {t} { } { } {t} { } { } {t} { } B
{ } { } { } { } { } { } { } { } { } C
{ } { } { } { } { } { } {O} { } { } D
{ } { } {E} { } { } {C} { } { } {C} E
{M} { } { } { } { } { } {G} { } { } F
{ } { } { } { } { } { } {D} { } { } G
{ } { } { } { } { } { } { } { } { } H
{ } {t} { } { } {t} { } { } {t} { } I
{w} {w} {w} {w} {w} {w} {w} {w} {w} J
-1---2---3---4---5---6---7---8---9

Diago's Bravery has 2 turns left.

Enemy Phase.

Cruxor attacks Diago! 10 Dmg! (INT)

Cruxor waits.

Otul moves to D6.

Otul attacks Clarissia! 7 Dmg! (ATK)

Galvan uses Haze on itself! [Evade +10%]

MP: 14/20

Galvan waits.

{w} {w} {w} {w} {w} {w} {w} {w} {w} A
{ } {t} { } { } {t} { } { } {t} { } B
{ } { } { } { } { } { } { } { } { } C
{ } { } { } { } { } {O} { } { } { } D
{ } { } {E} { } { } {C} { } { } {C} E
{M} { } { } { } { } { } {G} { } { } F
{ } { } { } { } { } { } {D} { } { } G
{ } { } { } { } { } { } { } { } { } H
{ } {t} { } { } {t} { } { } {t} { } I
{w} {w} {w} {w} {w} {w} {w} {w} {w} J
-1---2---3---4---5---6---7---8---9

Galvan's Haze has 5 turns.

Player Phase 2!

Masquerade (Composer) *MELODIC SOUL [2]*
HP: 15/15
MP: 24/30
DD: 1/10
Atk: 1
Def: 3
Int: 7
Spr: 4
Evade: 1%
Move: 2 cells

Clarissia (Dancer)
HP: 15/20
MP: 18/25
DD: 4/10
Atk: 5
Def: 2
Int: 3
Spr: 3
Evade: 5%
Move: 4 cells

Diago (Rogue) *BRAVERY*
HP: 19/25
MP: 20/20
DD: 6/10
Atk: 7 --- 11
Def: 4
Int: 2
Spr: 4
Evade: 5%
Move: 4 cells

Celestine (Astrologist)
HP: 20/20
MP: 24/30
DD: 0/10
Atk: 1
Def: 4
Int: 6
Spr: 3
Evade: 1%
Move: 2 cells

Cruxor (Fallen Star)
HP: 35/35
MP: 55/55
DD: --/--
Atk: 3
Def: 4
Int: 10
Spr: 5
Evade: 1%
Move: 2 cells

Otul (Astra Knight)
HP: 38/40
MP: 20/20
DD: --/--
Atk: 7
Def: 4
Int: 2
Spr: 3
Evade: 3%
Move: 3 cells

Galvan (Astra Knight)
HP: 20/40
MP: 14/20
DD: --/--
Atk: 7
Def: 4
Int: 2
Spr: 3
Evade: 3% --- 13%
Move: 3 cells

{w} - Wall (cannot be occupied)

{t} - Torch (cannot be occupied)

Masquerade moves to F3.

Masquerade uses Searing String on Galvan! 7 Fire Dmg! (INT) [Chance of Burn]

MP: 16/30

Replacing the bow to the strings of his violin, Masq started up his blazing, passionate tune once more, marching forward several feet to get closer to the action. It seemed that Saturn's representatives were capable of dishing out the pain, but the so-called ambassadors were equally as capable. It would be a close match, but Masq was confident as were the others, or at least it appeared to be the case with Diago challenging Saturn out loud. No doubt the deity would be able to hear him, but it managed to lure Saturn out, then that would be great. Time was of the essence here. Masq shook his head as he realized he was still playing, the strings of his instrument on fire. The heat was becoming way too much and he took the bow away, lowering the violin and swinging it through the air causing another jet of flames to blast forward to strike the star warrior directly ahead of him who had covered itself in some sort of weird mist that was hard to see through. Did I even hit it? Masq questioned himself in his mind, keeping his violin down to cool off while tilting his head in curiosity. He flashed a quick glance at Clarissia, wanting to give her some direction. If she attacked in conjunction with himself and Diago, they might be able to get one of the warriors down. Possibly. It occurs to me that we know nothing about these creatures..., the composer thought in a depressed tone. How much can they take?

A certain thought crossed Masq's mind. What if they were being tested by Saturn? Maybe this wasn't exactly an act of aggression. In lore, deities were quite infamous for testing the strength and wills of mortals. Maybe this was just another one of those trials they'd be forced to face. "If it is, then I have a feeling this won't be our only battle," Masq muttered quietly to himself, switching his gaze back to the enemies.

Clarissia uses Tourner Deux on Otul and Galvan! 2 hits! 5 Dmg per hit! (ATK)

S-Ability Background Music activates! [MP Cost -50%]

MP: 11/25

Clarissia could hear the others and see fragments of their moves as she also assaulted the foes, however, she tried to focus on the music that Masq was playing. It was hot and spicy, and she found it much easier to move about when he was playing. His music had always inspired her to dance. In battle or just for enjoyment, his music became her blood. It was pumped through her and allowed her to move. Her heart faltered slightly at the thought, her leg raising and body spinning such that two deft kicks would be dealt to the surrounding astral knights. Something about dancing to his beautiful sounds now made her feel guilty--like she didn't deserve to be able to dance anymore. If it weren't a life or death situation, she probably wouldn't dance at all. She had no right. Not when Masq was around, anyway. Not when he was playing those passionate, heartfelt notes that seemed to ethereally compose his existence. Clarissia lowered her leg and stood firm, muscles tense. The adrenaline was numbing the pain of the sword wound that had been made right on her chest. It was deeper than she had thought, and definitely trickling blood, her mana acting to slow it down a bit as well.

Not looking forward to the pain later though... she thought miserably to herself. But I probably deserve it. She didn't let the horrid feelings show on her face, taking on a more stoic expression instead. The anguish that lie within...it could be dealt with later. She had to continue to be strong for now, and she thought she was doing a good job of that at the moment.

Clarissia waits.

Eebit · Eebit, Sep 27, 2012 at 1:54 AM

{Diago basic attacks Galvan (F7)! 2 Hits! 11 ATK Damage (each hit)!}
{Diago moves to G8 [G7 - G8]}

{Celestine moves to E4 [E3 - E4]}
{Celestine uses Leo, the Lion on Clarissia (E6)! Bestows Bravery!}
{Celestine's S-Ability Generosity activates! MP Cost reduced by 25%!}
<MP: 18/30>

The flames conjured by Masq's whimsical, yet passionate music flew towards him through the air once again. Diago felt lucky that he had not yet been singed by their presence while he and the composer attacked the same beast, but it seemed that - even in spite of the distance - the man knew exactly where his music would be taking him. It struck him as odd, in passing, as Diago had always thought of music as a journey in and of itself. Guess that'd come with playing an instrument with actual skill. All the same, Diago relented in his assault. It did him well to get a moment's reprieve, though it seemed that a mysterious haze had started to form over the enemy. "Heh..." he half-sighed, half-chuckled. "Clarissia, lemme know if you hit this bastard. I'll let you know, as well. Guess and check, here." A little more speaking to break the tension down, even if nobody else planned to speak to one another.

Diago quickly plunged his sword-arm into the fog that was painted in an ominous crimson by Masq's glowing pyre. He hoped to land a deep blow on the star-warrior in order to finish it off. It had showed little signs of being harmed by his first couple strikes, but he hoped that it was not invulnerable. He knew it within him. If the God Saturn was not perfect, and needed to curse his people with living serpents that could be destroyed each night - and occasionally singlehandedly, as Rick had proved all too recently, then surely his personal guards were equally imperfect. This thought driving him like a mantra of some sort, Diago threw forward another of his four-pointed shrikes. The metallic tinge winked off of the torchlight before becoming as a faded memory in the mist surrounding the enemy. Hopefully it finds its mark... and finishes it off. Diago thought, grimly. It was tough enough coping with the rifts between them. Perhaps they had been set up by the God to be eliminated on their adventure? Just how omnipotent was the 'deity?'

Not knowing whether or not he had hit the guardian, Diago continued to sidle along the wall. Back out of view of the monsters, but into the torchlight. At least, he thought, that star thing won't follow me. Or see me leave. He had a subtle hope in him that the companions' combined efforts had eliminated the guardian... but with the haze around it, all bets were off. And that made Diago hesitant to travel far... but on the other hand, the other thing with its tainted light and murky brightness intrigued him. "Any idea what THAT thing is?" Diago yelled back to Masq, who seemed to be the most well-versed in the lay of the land of the group.

Celestine, on the other hand, maintained a firm silence. She was hesitant to speak to Clarissia again, since it seemed that she wanted most just to be left alone to her own devices - the dance and Masq's songs, both carefully woven arts that Celestine was silently awestruck because of. Diago stood far away, but she still heard his voice reverberating off of the walls. He had an air of feistiness about him. Ready to keep on kicking at the can until it was out of sight and out of mind. She thought back to how he had plead with her on the beach to keep going... and, embarrassingly, how she had recently called out to him. He was keeping strong. She had to do the same.

She inhaled sharply, shutting her eyes again. She felt the Mana rushing through her as she attempted to envision the powerful lion once again. Stepping forward and reaching out with both hands, she thrust forward an aura of power towards Clarissia, who was still mid-step in her dance. The girl's brown hair and ribbons were twirling about, but it would seem that the Lion's roar in her mind would reach her too late before the power augmented her own natural grace as well. It seemed that, once again, Celestine was inadequate at what she did. She sighed, letting out the breath she had not known she was holding. The hot air blew a stray bit of hair away from her face from her forceful movements. I'm too slow... I-I... need to work faster. She put on her best determined look, and readied herself for whatever duties she was put up to next.

Masquerade · Masquerade, Sep 28, 2012 at 12:49 AM

Otul takes 2 Dmg!

HP: 36/40

Galvan dodges both of Clarissia's attacks!

Galvan takes 18 Dmg!

HP: 2/40

Galvan evades Burn!

S-Ability Star Blessing activates! [Bestows Protect]

Chapter 01: Arrival

Location: The Pinnacle - Entrance

Objective: Defeat all enemies!

Background: ~Kiri~

{w} {w} {w} {w} {w} {w} {w} {w} {w} A
{ } {t} { } { } {t} { } { } {t} { } B
{ } { } { } { } { } { } { } { } { } C
{ } { } { } { } { } {O} { } { } { } D
{ } { } { } {E} { } {C} { } { } {C} E
{ } { } {M} { } { } { } {G} { } { } F
{ } { } { } { } { } { } { } {D} { } G
{ } { } { } { } { } { } { } { } { } H
{ } {t} { } { } {t} { } { } {t} { } I
{w} {w} {w} {w} {w} {w} {w} {w} {w} J
-1---2---3---4---5---6---7---8---9

Diago's Bravery has 1 turn left.

Clarissia's Bravery has 3 turns.

Enemy Phase.

Cruxor attacks Diago! 10 Dmg! (INT)

Cruxor waits.

Otul attacks Clarissia! 7 Dmg! (ATK)

Otul waits.

Galvan moves to G7.

Galvan uses Gravity Plunge on Diago! 7 Dmg! (ATK)

MP: 0/20

{w} {w} {w} {w} {w} {w} {w} {w} {w} A
{ } {t} { } { } {t} { } { } {t} { } B
{ } { } { } { } { } { } { } { } { } C
{ } { } { } { } { } {O} { } { } { } D
{ } { } { } {E} { } {C} { } { } {C} E
{ } { } {M} { } { } { } { } { } { } F
{ } { } { } { } { } { } {G} {D} { } G
{ } { } { } { } { } { } { } { } { } H
{ } {t} { } { } {t} { } { } {t} { } I
{w} {w} {w} {w} {w} {w} {w} {w} {w} J
-1---2---3---4---5---6---7---8---9

Galvan's Haze has 4 turns left.

Galvan's Protect has 3 turns.

Player Phase 3!

Masquerade (Composer) *MELODIC SOUL [2]*
HP: 15/15
MP: 18/30
DD: 2/10
Atk: 1
Def: 3
Int: 7
Spr: 4
Evade: 1%
Move: 2 cells

Clarissia (Dancer) *BRAVERY*
HP: 10/20
MP: 11/25
DD: 6/10
Atk: 5 --- 8
Def: 2
Int: 3
Spr: 3
Evade: 5%
Move: 4 cells

Diago (Rogue) *BRAVERY*
HP: 10/25
MP: 20/20
DD: 8/10
Atk: 7 --- 11
Def: 4
Int: 2
Spr: 4
Evade: 5%
Move: 4 cells

Celestine (Astrologist)
HP: 20/20
MP: 18/30
DD: 0/10
Atk: 1
Def: 4
Int: 6
Spr: 3
Evade: 1%
Move: 2 cells

Cruxor (Fallen Star)
HP: 35/35
MP: 55/55
DD: --/--
Atk: 3
Def: 4
Int: 10
Spr: 5
Evade: 1%
Move: 2 cells

Otul (Astra Knight)
HP: 36/40
MP: 20/20
DD: --/--
Atk: 7
Def: 4
Int: 2
Spr: 3
Evade: 3%
Move: 3 cells

Galvan (Astra Knight) *CRITICAL* *PROTECT*
HP: 2/40
MP: 0/20
DD: --/--
Atk: 7
Def: 4
Int: 2
Spr: 3
Evade: 3% --- 13%
Move: 3 cells

{w} - Wall (cannot be occupied)

{t} - Torch (cannot be occupied)

Masquerade moves to F5.

Masquerade uses a basic attack! Hits Otul and Galvan! 7 Dmg! (INT)

Diago had inquired about the strange spherical creature that was firing blasts of light at the poor rogue. At his friend's request, he peered more closely at the thing, but really never had encountered anything like it before. It was extremely reminiscent of a star like the ones you would find in the night sky. "If I were to guess, I'd say that is a star plucked from the heavens that Saturn breathed life into. Now, it serves him, of course," Masq called back to Diago, hoping the fellow would be satisfied with that answer, for it was really just an educated guess. That's what it looked like anyway. "I mean, think about it. It would make sense," he added, taking a few steps closer to where the melee was taking place. A single chord echoed throughout the area, a wave of consolidated neutral mana pulsing outwards to buffet the star-knights that were in range of hearing it. Getting a better look at the knights, Masq had to admit that they looked pretty cool. One was on the brink of destruction while the other seemed to be going strong. He glanced over to Clarissia to see that she was taking quite the beating, and so was Diago for that matter.

"You guys pull back if you have to in order to recover," Masq spoke up, keeping his violin at the ready. So far, he felt in pretty good shape. Untouched. He wasn't the most sturdy fellow around, but he'd rather take some hits than see his friends fall at the hands of Saturn's warriors. He was aware that Clarissia had a dance that could be helpful to them all, but she'd probably need some...background music. Masq placed the hand with his bow in it to his heart to feel that it had started to race. He recalled so many times in the village where he would play his songs on his violin and she would just dance along which drew in even more people. They were quite the duo, and very popular in Cordan. Masq loved to watch her dance just as much as she loved to listen to his music. They were practically made for each other, and yet, she had rejected him somehow. He quickly removed his hand and erased the rather stoic look on his face and replaced it with one portraying a sort of determination to get this mission completed. What would happen after their encounter with Saturn, however, remained a mystery. Could he honestly go back to Cordan and live there like nothing had happened? Watch as Clarissia maybe fell for another guy? To see her in the arms of someone else...it would just be too much for him. Looks like I'll be moving on...maybe get off this continent entirely. There's still a whole world I've yet to see out there... he thought bleakly while trying to maintain the facade that he was perfectly okay.

Clarissia moves to D5.

"My foot didn't manage to thwack the hazy one, Diago," Clarissia was sure to reply promptly. Her foot had only slammed into one being twice in the same position. The other must have dodged the attack completely which slightly disconcerted the dancer. She heard Masq's call about backing off, but she couldn't now. That would put Celestine in danger, and...she wasn't going to be having any of that. Nimbly, Clarissia dodged around the main target of her assaults, the healthier astral knight. Once she had come to a stop, she gripped one of her ribbons and raised it up, bringing down on the astral knight like a whip. The material it was made out of caused it to flutter freely when in constantly changing motion, but when forcefully directed somewhere, it became much more firm, mingling with the force at which it was swung to create a pretty effective attack. She retracted the ribbon and let it dangle down while maintaining her stance. Even with the boost that Celestine had blessed her with, it would take a lot more effort to bring this thing down on her own. She'd need backup, but by this point, the strange star thing Masq and Diago were talking about seemed to be the biggest threat. What are we supposed to do? she groaned mentally, the stress of the night's events weighing down on her heavily. Thoughts of Masq confessing his feelings, the curse serpent, and then the trippy voyage to the Pinnacle all surged through her mind like a wild storm causing her head to pound with a dull ache. She desperately needed a break.

Clarissia attacks Otul! 8 Dmg! (ATK)

Eebit · Eebit, Sep 28, 2012 at 5:39 AM

{Diago moves to E8 [G8 - F8 - E8]}
{Diago basic attacks Cruxor (E9)! 2 Hits! 11 ATK Damage (each hit)!}

{Celestine uses Virgo, the Virgin on Empty Cell (E7) [Targets Diago (E8)]! 6 Holy INT Healing!}
{Celestine's S-Ability Generosity activates! MP Cost reduced by 25%!}
<MP: 9/30>
{Celestine waits...}

Masq had answered him... but Diago was almost upset by the answer given. "Is that where the darkness comes from, then?" Saturn had plucked the stars from the night sky, enslaving their beauty to bend them to his very whim. It was unfair. Unjust. Not right. He had tainted something so beautiful with his touch. Perhaps this was why the Sinerians had abandoned him; not due to their own stubborn ways, but his corrupting influence... "Would I be right in saying that?" Diago pondered, speaking more to the guardians themselves this time, though he expected no real response. How could something so typically inanimate respond to him?

He had been wrong about the star warrior, as well. It had followed him and plunged its blade right into his core, hurting him a little more than he had been expecting. The rogue grimaced in pain, having not expected the guardian to see him shuffle away to what he had assumed was out of its range, especially with that ominous mist blanketing its form. Diago recovered from his wincing, and grunted as the blade was withdrawn. Thankfully, the wound did not draw too much blood, but he pressed on it all the same. An open, infected gash was what he needed least right now... though his undershirt was going to be worse for wear after this fight. The blood soaked through into his jacket, expanding slowly to reveal its presence in a deep shade of crimson. Too late, Masq warned him and Clarissia to step back from the front lines. "Heh... no sense in giving up now. Gotta keep pushing, eh?" And push he did. He looked back at the cloud of fog that was now following him, but heard Masq's music pick up into another, less passionate tune.

Hopefully that'll take care of the first star warrior... Diago thought to himself, with a faint hope that he would be able to redouble his efforts elsewhere. The fire that had been kindled within him by Celestine's Mana and presence in general was beginning to fade... and Diago knew he would need to act quickly, lest he end up as a dead man in his efforts to bring peace to the land of Sineria. "No..." he muttered aloud, to nobody in particular but himself, and perhaps the object ahead of him with its tainted shimmer and darkness in light. "Doesn't end like this. Not for me." Diago grit his teeth and powered through his wound, pouncing towards the tainted star. Was it even a physical object, he wondered? The power it let out was certainly not tangible... but hurt just as much. Diago threw another of his shrikes, directly where he assumed the source of the light was. Whether or not it would harm the being was entirely up in the air, but still, Diago pushed forward, unrelenting in his assault. The katana was brought powerfully down upon the star that had been tainted by Saturn, emitting the last of the sparks within him as the reddened blade met its target. His violet eyes twinkled with the sparks of a renewed faith in the battle, as he felt a more holy light come over him...

Moments earlier, Celestine recognized that it was her turn to step up to the plate. Masquerade seemed concerned for Clarissia and Diago... it pained her to know that even though Clarissia had not reciprocated his emotion towards her, Masq still cared deeply for her. She knew she had opened a wound that could not be repaired by mere time... not without intensive care and dedication. She solemnly bowed her head in prayer once more, allowing the dirty blonde hair to fall over her eyes as she let forth a mental call... but this time, she looked to a different astral being to answer her prayers.

Virgo... holiest mother and watcher of the light... hear my call now. Bless us, your children, as we venture forth in the name of peace. As we attempt to mend relations between a deity and his people... She shook her head, knowing how odd it sounded when they were fighting against the very deity's creations. But she looked up all the same, seeing a holy light waft over Diago, glimmering around him as the light seeped into a centralized point within him, purging him of his wounds. The light would act as a remedial salve to the deep swords wounds and the scathing of some unholy light. She nodded, looking over at the dancing girl, who seemed to be dealing with injuries of her own. "Hold on, Clarissia!" her voice raspy and hoarse from misuse, she cleared her throat. "I'll help you next... stay away from the guards!"

She could only hope that the other girl would take this as an offering of her sincerest apologies... she had ruined something. Something better than what Celestine herself deserved. She felt suddenly very alone within herself, as though she were out of place not only in her surroundings, but in her very being as well. She choked slightly, a tear threatening to well up in her eyes... What will happen... when this 'peace mission' is over?

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