Fantasy ~ Chiaroscuro ~

[SilverFlight]

From the creator of FableWood...

A curious parcel has arrived at your door. A simple box wrapped in fine paper and finished with a ribbon of gold. A sealed letter rests just underneath the elegant bow. You turn the letter over and look at the seal before breaking it: The symbol of a winged lion pressed into red wax. The letter contained is penned in an elegant, looping script and with interest peaked, you begin to read:

My dear friend,


It is with resounding pleasure that I bring you this invitation. Venice is a city of wonder, of magic and golden mystery and never is the beauty and enchantment more entrancing than during Carnevale!


A grand ball will be held throughout the entire city for four days. For four days all shall be flooded with light. Sweet music will echo over the canals and all will be draped in a cloak of finery no other in the world could match.


I invite you to come to this heart of splendor, revel with us in the finery of this event, drink and be merry, dance…fall in love. But if your heart yearns for tasks of a more noble nature then meet me under the wings of the gold lion. I will await you.


Of course you cannot attend this event without the gift I have sent. Please enjoy it, and I anticipate your attendance with unyielding enthusiasm.


Sincerely,


- Di Angelo

​

You set the letter down but before picking up the box you notice a second letter, hastily tucked onto the other side of the parcel. You take this instead and examine the seal. The wax is black as pitch and the symbol of a skeletal hand glints in the light of the dying sun from the window. The ominous fold of paper is opened by cautious hands and slowly you pour over the text.

My dear friend,

The light and life of my city is indeed splendid. Its winding canals carry many wonderful secrets, but do not for a moment think that the golden glow of this grand party reaches every corner of Venice.


Chiaroscuro. There is no light without shadow.


I offer you a warning; come to the city masquerade and take your life in your hands, for everyone wants something, and here in this grandest of wonders, all wear false faces. But if you wish to be a wolf in this masque instead of a lamb, call by the golden gate that keeps the sun at bay. I will be waiting for you there. This game you have been asked to play is old as it is dangerous. Be careful who you trust, pay attention to your allies, stay close to your enemies and above all else…never remove your mask.


- Teshionero
​

You put down the unsettling letter. What could it mean? Was there more to this grand party? Another layer? Perhaps it frightens you, makes you rethink your excitement regarding Di Angelo’s charming invitation…perhaps you are called by ‘tasks of a more noble nature’ or perhaps the darker side of your nature is called by the second letter…


Your attention then falls to the box, the first object of your curiosity. You pull away the elegant wrapping carefully and lift the lid. Di Angelo’s gift sits on a cushion of fine silk, still and silent yet flooded with a mysterious life. A traditional Venetian mask stares back up at you through hollow eyes.

 

[SilverFlight]

((Reserved, please do not post until the introductory post is up.))

 

[SilverFlight]

Blood was beginning to pool on the cobbles, filling the spaces between the stone. "I regret doing that as I did." The man spoke in a gentle tone, the light of the setting sun glinting off of a crimson-stained blade. He removed the victim's pocket handkerchief carefully and cleaned the sword.


"I regret you not doing it sooner. The man was a criminal of the worst kind. My sister is saved because of what you did, and probably every serving girl from here to Milano."


The eyes behind the mask were barely visible but showed a hint of gladness. "Then it is a job well done. I am satisfied I decided to do this myself."


The scruffy-haired youth he poke to looked downcast for a moment.


"I'm sorry, but I have nothing to pay you with."


A light chuckle escaped the mask's frozen face. "Lad, my friends and I do not take from those who have less than we do. Consider it a service, and I hope that perhaps one day I may be able to call on its return?" The boy worked in the docks, right under his rival guild's nose. He would be overwhelmingly useful.


The boy was a bit overwhelmed by the politeness of the gentleman in the mask. "Whatever you wish sir. I could not have done anything alone. I was so lucky to run into you in the markets!"


"That we both were." The stranger cast his gaze out into the bright street twenty paces away. "Quick now, don't be seen."


He ushered the boy to a small wooden ladder that lead to the roof. The boy went obediently, waving at the man from the roof before disappearing.


DiAngelo allowed himself a tiny smile before removing a small square of paper and placing it on the body. The sheet held a miniature winged lion inked in red. The fact that this man had been murdering serving girls was not a secret, but it had never been proven in a Venetian courtroom, so he had been allowed to go free.


"Glad to put a stop to that." He said to himself, strolling confidently out of the alley, dressed already in his festive costume. The jester face smiled cheekily at all who passed it.


The end of the day was a beautiful one. Everywhere masked party-goers strolled or danced down beside the docks. Glittered confetti was hurled into the air and caught in the sunlight as it set the entire scene ablaze with golden light. Violins could be heard singing a merry tune in the distance and the laughter raised about the entire square was intoxicating. Now was the true time for Revelry! DiAngelo ached to join it. But he had another task first.


"A little far from home my friend." He froze as the ice-cold tone seeped into his veins. He knew the voice addressing him. DiAngelo stopped where he was. A man stood by his shoulder dressed all in black. The long beakish nose of his mask was white as bone. "Aren't we?"


"Teshio. I am so sorry, had I known you were home, I would have sent flowers first."


Teshio sneered at the impudence, a gesture lost under his mask, though not from his tone. "It would be so easy to kill you now..."


DiAngelo knew it. he had been careless. No doubt his old enemy had noticed his arrival long before the target had been eliminated and had set up measures to see it done.


"So why wait 'old friend'?" DiAngelo's heart raced. He knew the leader of the hand could not best him with blades so there was another plan.


"And have you miss Carnevale? Oh tut tut, I am efficient in my work, not cruel. I know how much you enjoy this drunken stupor. So enjoy it. We shall play the game as we always have. Besides, the er, Signore Cavello was...a thorn removed. For that service I will grant you passage through the markets."


"Most gracious."


"Good hunting my friend. It seems we both have grander business tonight."


DiAngelo looked quickly to his side only to find the other man had vanished. He hated how the hand was so good at doing that. But there was no time to worry about it now. Teshio was right, he did have a pressing engagement.


The Piazza St Marco was as crowded as it was beautiful. Everywhere gleaming decoration hung for Carnevale. There was not a face unmasked and noble ladies and gentlemen were lining up outside lavish households for the grand masked balls that would be held throughout the festival.


The Square DiAngelo had chosen to meet his guild members and the new recruits was much smaller and cast in the shadows of the great buildings. Trails of lilting music drifted lazily to his ears above the din of the distant crowds. This place was much less active, the most prominent feature was a large gilded statue. The Winged lion of St Mark lay with proud wings spread, pointing toward the sky. DiAngelo looked up at the animal's regal face and gave a small nod. This symbol was the soul of Venice. It embodied everything he loved about the city. In one swift motion he jumped and swung himself up onto the lion's back, laying down between its wings. There he waited, the fool garbed in black. To pass the time he took a small flute from his pocket and began to play the little instrument, choosing an elegant tune he remembered from his childhood.

Spoiler

[media]

[/media]
~~~


Teshio gave a signal and the man in the window of one of the apartments removed the bolt from his crossbow. They both watched DiAngelo as he turned in the direction of the Piazza St Marco. Teshio himself turned too, but towards the end of the docks, where the gated waterways stood, barring unwanted ship traffic from the city. If one stood on the inside of those gates, which faced to the West the light of the dying sun would look as if it were trapped behind them.


Here Teshio stood, a black, ominous figure, proud and confident and waited for those he had summoned.

 

[Adylyn]

Qwen studied the letter closely. She couldn't believe something so elegant had appeared at her home. Sipping her glass of water she continued to grade her students paper, but the letter she left on the counter seemed to be calling to her. She tried ignoring the piece of paper, but the light from the kitchen seemed to shine on it; like the heavens opened up on the letter.


Sighing she put the piles of unfinished test aside and she grabbed the letter and studied it for a third time. She didn't know why this letter showed up and of all people her. She brought the letter to her desk and read it again, this time just to read. She has a habit of doing that, after all she IS an English teacher.


She picked up the mask and put it to her face. She felt like a completely different person with the mask on. She heard her heart beating in her ears and the world quieted itself.


She took the mask off placed it back in the parcel. She went upstairs and put on her most presentable outfit, a crisp button up shirt with plain black slacks. Putting her hair in a messy bun, she grabbed her purse and the parcel with the letter and mask inside. Instead of hailing a coach, she walked in hopes of something happening. The night was chilly and she regretted not bringing a coat.


The sky was the color of caviar. The wind blew through her shirt making her hug herself for warmth. She wished she was in a coach and not walking by herself in the night. Luckily her pistols were tucked safely in her purse. It's not like she was looking for trouble, but if it came she was ready. Plus she knew how to summon her familiar if needed.

 

[DawnAntalios]

The grand Carnevale. So joyful. So elegant. And yet so lethal for those who are unaware of the dangers of such a magnificent event. It was truly one of the most beautiful nights, as the last rays of the dying sun tried to grab the edge of the horizon to shine just a bit longer the sky turned from red into a much more mysterious hue of purple which heralded the arrival of the night - and of the most wonderful part of the evening, the part when everyone would be dancing and having fun together.


A figure of a tall, slender man appeared on the edge of the horizon as he stepped out from his boat, finally arriving to this vivid, lively city. He stepped up and dusted off his exquisite, finely made long suit - this costume made for the Carnevale itself was quite fitting for him in it he looked both elegant and mysterious - and that was to his liking. The long, tenuous journey finally paid off as he looked at the marvelous sight of the night lamps, the cheering crowd and the festivities. He was quite impressed and was quite pleased as well - as long as he wears the mask which was provided for him he would be able to blend in and move undetected to meet up with that mysterious figure who contacted him. He looked at his fancy outfit and dusted it off as he looked around, searching for his destination. Eventually he decided to just walk around and discover the place for himself.


As he was walking down the streets, marveling in the sights he suddenly heard something rustling behind his back. He did not turn for he knew that it would be pointless to look for the source of the sound, knowing that it would just make possible attacks advantageous against him. Surely enough a moment later a masked figure emerged from the shadows, clapping at him.


" Well well, cold blooded I see. You, my good sir, are not a coward unlike the others. Unfortunately that still means that I need your purse. Just hand it over and nothing bad will happen to you. "


He did not say a word just raised his hand. At first nothing had happened, all that the bandit heard was a faint whisper in the wind, almost as if something had been thrown towards him - but he could see nothing. Ensuring that it was but his imagination he wanted to move forward to collect his price - but few moments later he felt a sting at his neck. He did not know what was happening first, his vision became blurry, his movement slowed down and he could barely stand now as it is. Finally he gave in to the poison as the darkness claimed him, the man collapsing on the ground. The masked man did not say anything but moved onward towards his destination. The bandit would eventually wake - he had neither the time nor the intention to kill this early as he just arrived to this fair city - no, the non-lethal poison would put the man to a good night's slumber but won't harm him. That is if he was wise enough not to cross his path ever again.


Finally he had spotted the lion and a strange, jester-looking man underneath its wings, playing his instrument. He walked next to him, waiting silently underneath the statue. After few moments of silence he spoke. But it was not a scruffy, deep voice which came underneath the mask.


It was of a girl's.


" You have called, and I have answered. " she spoke silently " Names are unimportant for now, not until I learn your true intent. "


She turned her masked face towards him.


" Let us talk. "


@SilverFlight

 

[Mayfly]

Emilia

Carnevale; what a beautiful, simply enchanting word. To some it meant a masqueraded fun-filled night where they lost their inhibitions under the facade of masks, to others, like her, it meant a great night to kill. As she finished gently pushing in the last pin to secure her hair. She'd chosen red today, it was a classic and the blood wouldn't show that much. Carefully inspecting her appearance once more, she decided she was worthy of the public, and grabbed the package she'd received on her way out.


The lady only put on her mask when she made her way through the crowded marketplace, the territory of the Death's Hand. Several stall-owners recognised her by the design of her mask, some smiling, some cringing back in fear. How nice it was to be able to instil these kind of emotions with just your presence. She subconsciously touched her hair to make sure all the pins were still in place.


more soon!!


Shifting her skirts as she strode elegantly on the stone of the marketplace, she made a mental note to remind him to choose a better location. These uneven stone things were not good for her heels. (16th century white girl problems) She swore in french as she almost stumbled, but managed to stay on her feet. As she approached the marketplace, she spotted the shadowed figure, and smiled under her mask. Emilia made her way to stand near him, facing the way she had just come from. "Teshio." she murmured in a way of greeting, curtsying for good measure.

 

[Adylyn]

The cold night air blew through Qwen's clothes easily. Hugging her self she continued down the side walk fighting against the wind. The steady sound of her heels against the cobblestone was heard until she heard something go squish. She looked down and saw a river of red. Bending down a little further she realized it was blood.


Breathing heavy she pulled out her pistols. She held on to them tight and looked around, danger was close by and she felt it. She spun in a slow circle, pistols ready to shoot. If she ran out of bullets she would summon her familiar. She had so much to live for, she couldn't just die at the hands of danger without avenging her mother.


She thought about using her alchemy, but her pistols were the first things she thought of. She looked around again, double checking. Relaxing a little she put her pistols back, this time summoning her familiar so she would feel much safer. She stood there for a minute thinking about keeping her pistols out, but she decided not to, not wanting to draw attention. Maybe she would meet Di Angelo here, or maybe she showed up at the wrong place. She needed to see someone here. Someone to tell her what is going on.

 

[SilverFlight]

Teshio heard a gentle, feminine voice behind him and turned. His eyes caught the light from beneath the mask before he bowed low. "Majesty." He said in greeting though his tone held a note of playful mockery. He had in the recent days been looking for a way to get under Emilia's skin. Things had been somewhat slow in the days leading up to Carnevale and it amused him. "I shall apologize on behalf of the road makers. It seems they had no thought for the complexities of a lady's shoe." One could hear the smile beneath his mask. He had seen her stumble and curse and took pleasure in bringing it up. Teshio had learned a small amount about Emilia since she had joined the guild. He related to her background, coming from the poorer end of life and liked working with her. He checked the area once more, making sure they were alone before his tone became more serious.


"Tonight will be a good night for a try at one of our more...'influential' targets." He said softly. I shall have our new faces prove themselves also. If they are half as competent as they should be, their diversion should be enough for you and I to get the job done." He opened his cloak and drew a piece of paper from a hidden pocket, handing it to her discretely. The paper contained an printed ink advertisement depicting a gentleman with dark hair and a serious expression.


"William Dale, an English trader and owner of the largest mercenary fleet this side of the alps. He uses it to suppress our friends in the lower sea-faring circles. mainly our smuggler allies. Naturally they have asked us to take advantage of his visit to Venice. A good target for cutting teeth."


This meant that he would have the newer members try for this target.


"As for the other...well, I think I shall leave it a surprise for now." The teasing tone came back as he crossed his arms and made another scan for his invited guests.


@Mayfly


~~~


The figure that approached the golden lion statue made DiAngelo pause in his playing for a moment. He saw the man come up from behind and was about to jump down and intervene. But the stranger had things well in hand. It made DiAngelo smile to see such proficiency. It surprised him all the more to hear the soft tone of a woman.


He saw the man that had attacked her stir on the ground.


"Non-lethal poison. My, fortune has favoured me it seems." He did little to hide the fact that he was impressed. 'Let us talk' she said, revealing nothing of herself in her tone.


"Let us indeed." DiAngelo replied politely, stepping closer to take her hand and gently lift it to the lips of his mask. "But I must disagree with you on the importance of names Signora. Names carry weight, they carry information...and they can carry power. I am called DiAngelo, but if you are here you knew this already so pray, shall we make it an even trade?"


The young woman asked of his intent. A fair question.


"I have nothing to hide from you. My organization runs without the trappings of formal justice, but trust me when I say we are for the protection of the people."


He stepped past her to look out onto the square, taking in the raucous celebrations with a careful gaze.


"You must admit it is sometimes difficult to find integrity when so few hold so much of the wealth and power. Justice it seems is only an apparition, appearing at the corner of one's eye without any tangible form when you most expect it." He turned back to her, the fervor behind his belief evident in his voice. "I have taken a personal vow to uphold justice in Venezia. It will be a long, bloody and likely never-ending battle...but I hope, with your help we may yet be able to subdue the darkness that lurks here."


@DawnAntalios


((@Adylyn can you come to either the lion statue or the gates? To DiAngelo or Teshio?))

 

[DawnAntalios]

A strange wind started to blow, a wind barely noticeable by those who did not pay attention to it... but Violet did feel the change. It was warm and caressing, she watched as it carried the falling leaves of countless trees through the street, the playful leaves dancing around just like the people in the Carnevale. She watched them carefully as they vanished as quickly as they came - they flew and went wherever the wind commanded them to go. She felt the same way... it has only been a couple of years since that bloody evening yet she still remembered everything vividly. The scene burned in her mind with an everlasting vigilance, serving as a warning to her that people are not to be trusted, that she can only win if she remains alone, anonymous. But now DiAngelo wanted to talk to her and asked her name... he even kissed her gloved hand. How could she trust this figure though?


She frowned but she had to admit that the courtesy of the young man was adequate. She expected to meet the leader of a ragtag ruffian gang of assassins, much like the person she had incapacitated while she was coming here - yet here he was, a gentleman dressed up as a jester, his intention is as clear as his killing intent.


" I am not one who sells her trust easily, Senor DiAngelo. " she said rather coldly " But I suppose you are correct. The least I can do is to share this simple name - I am Violet of the D'Gnaara family. Well, what is left of it anyway. "


She listened to what he wanted to say. Frankly she was surprised that he spoke about the defense of people, to safeguard them, to bring justice. She was baffled to say the least but she listened intently before she said anything.


" I have imagined you to be a different person. " she said " I pictured a well groomed man with a silver tongue, coercing others to join his order for glory and fame, to bring prosperity not to the people but to himself. " she looked away briefly before turning her attention to him again " That you are well mannered I have no doubts about, but your intent... is naive and unbelievable to say the least. "


She crossed her arms, bowing her head slightly.


" You can not protect the people - for the greatest danger to them is themselves. " she said " I have experienced it from first hand. Your goals are indeed noble - but what are you willing to sacrifice in order to reach them? What dirty, nefarious tricks or contacts are you willing to use to ensure that others remain safe? Murder? Blackmailing? Lying? "


She knew that she might be crossing a line but she needed to be absolute certain.


" You speak of being just, of being a paragon of virtue - yet look at us. We are well trained killers, I have no doubt in my mind that you have hatched at least a dozens of scenarios how to eliminate me should I refuse your offer. But know one thing, DiAngelo of Venezia: the shadow can never be suppressed. It has a never ending struggle with light for a reason: light can not abolish the darkness, nor can the shadow snuff out the light. The dance you are inviting me into is perilous, everlasting and in the end futile. Even if we succeed it will be but a temporary truce - after our presence is gone from this world the feud will start anew. All our work will be undone. "


She paused for a moment, letting an eerie silence linger for a bit before she replied.


" I am done with nightmares. I have lost everything in my life, but I am willing to rebuild everything. The question is: are you truly the man who you claim to be? Are you truly willing to sacrifice everything for the greater good? "


@SilverFlight

 

[Pretzel Heart]

"My name is Gatto~!"


Though the streets of Venice were bustling more than ever, in the narrow alleys where a lone girl strolled there was hardly anyone at all. This only seemed to strengthen her impudence, forcing her lungs to carry her nonsensical song past the rooftops and into the emerging stars of the twilight sky.


The luxuriously pelted cat that strolled alongside her squeaked in protest to the girl's awful sense of tune. Tutting, she stopped her song and stroll to pick the animal up, cooing as she worked her fingers through its fur. While 'Gatto' hardly paid any attention to her own appearance, she always made sure that her kitty was in top form, even when prowling the dirty streets. An unhealthy pelt makes for an unhealthy cat...Despite having no education, somehow this, she knew.





"So many people, and yet we must find the one!"


Often without company, the girl was in the habit of speaking aloud to herself, often in exaggerated tones.





"Maybe we should go to the busy streets, first. Then when we catch him...then we can come back here."


She smiled in her unbalanced fashion, her beautiful eyes collapsing into sinister slits. In happiness she spun around, the cat still cradled safely in her arms, doing a sort of strange jig for the alleyways and the night.





"What ho--- what's this?"


Her feet had brushed against a figure lying on the ground.





"Had too much to drink already?"


She kicked the man with a force much stronger than a curious passerby. Thinking about her one-time fiancee always brought out the malice in her, slipping through the cracks of her mind in these tiniest eruptions. Still, no harm was done. The man was dead.


It was then that the girl noticed the dim lights were reflecting off of a bright pool flowering from the figure's chest. Her mouth opened into a gasp as her nose finally registered the most stark smell out of all the city's odors.


Blood.


It had scarcely begun to coagulate, so the murder was quite fresh. Of course, the girl knew none of this, and instead marveled at the beauty of the scene, her expression not unlike that of a tourist admiring a famous work of art. Her eyes took in the shine of the blood and the playful way it bobbed over and through the nooks and crannies of the cobblestones. The cat began to squirm, though the girl continued to hold it close. Closer.


Without realizing it she had crouched by the body, edging to it as near as her sweeping skirts would allow. Somehow still managing to balance her hold on the cat, as if in a trance, she reached out and picked up a piece of paper lying near the stab wound. On it was nothing but a neat ink drawing of a winged lion. Suddenly, another image flashed through her mind, of another winged lion adorning one of letters she had earlier received. Being unable to read, she had used them to start a nice little fire in the withering remains of her family's garden. But she remembered the lion. Her eyes never left its face as it began to melt, becoming nothing more than a red stain. The fire's flickering glow had made the mask that laid in the accompanying package gleam as if slick with blood itself.


The red mask that the girl now wore.


Having not read the letters, of course, she could maintain no connection other than the strange image. And yet, in her heart, there was something...





"Venice is going to be quite dangerous this time of year, yes indeedy!"


She chimed, picking up her song and dance from earlier and leaving the man, already partially forgotten, to continue to flower and rot away. The paper she tucked into the top of her dress.





"We'd better find our birdy before someone else snatches him up."


Finally listening to the protests of her cat, 'Gatto' allowed the creature to once more pad alongside her as the pair made their way towards the town square. Having little mind left to possess, she was fully faithful in the threads of fate that would bring her and her would-be lover back together, hopefully weaving a tale of intrigue and excitement to wrap them around the Carnivale like mastheads to a ship, ending in a perfect, beautiful red bow.

 

[Adylyn]

Qwen continued on her way down the road when she came across a lion. Of course it was a statue, but it startled her a bit. She cautiously approached the statue, she fascinated by the detail. It was cold enough that she could see her own breath. Anyone could have thought she was smoking. She hugged herself, she could feel the pistols pressed against her body. Summoning her familiar seemed like a good idea right, but she refused knowing that it could bring trouble.


She stood there waiting as the night got colder and her toes lost feeling.


The guy's name was Di Angelo....right? She thought to herself over and over again. She hugged herself even tighter feeling nervous and self conscious. There's a reason I'm here. I was chosen for a reason. She had to keep reminding her self that or else she would've bailed, but thinking about what happened to her mother only made her stand up straighter. She wasn't going to let this self change her mind any time soon.


Pretty soon she was filled with confidence and loosened herself up. She wanted to make a good first impression and didn't want to be seen as weak. I'm strong. She thought to herself. I can do this. Nothing is going to stop me, not even my own negativity. By then being cold left her mind and stood by the statue waiting. Her chin held high. This is a new beginning. She thought to herself. You have to be ready.

 

[SilverFlight]

"Violet." He said the name delicately, as if appreciating a work of art. It was her last name he truly contemplated however. He had heard it before. A gruesome scene described on paper in a report sent to the city guard. The Lions (or DiAngelo rather) took the liberty of copying notable reports when they had the chance and this one had come up as one of the more interesting.


He gave a sad laugh when she called his goals far-fetched. "You are right." He replied simply. "I have no proud counter-argument, no righteous defense that would ever elevate my intent beyond wishful fancy...but perhaps I can defend myself and my truths with a tale?" DiAngelo walked slowly back to the statue and sat on its base, the paw of the great golden lion resting on the stone just by his head.


"I killed someone today, a noble, well-known for replacing his female servants quite frequently." He regarded her now and his tone changed, grew darker just as his eyes did, and he continued. "The servants of neighboring estates could hear the screams coming from that house...who knows what he did to them before they died. Before the man came to our attention they had fished eight bodies out of the canals not a hundred paces from the house. The youngest was just sixteen. So tell me Signora, are my goals so naive...when suffering is right before me and I have the power to end it...is it so foolish to step in, to stop the slaughter at eight and make sure that no more innocent girls are tortured?" He stopped there, feeling the emotion in his own voice. He realized he was angry at himself for allowing those eight to die. Watching the strong prey on the weak woke a rage in him that was almost alien.


"The blood on my hands is beyond measure by now, but how much blood is on the hands of those who just stand by? I know that there will always be darkness, it is the nature of man. But the Lions of St Mark are not just men. We are an idea. As we fight, we inspire others to do the same, and when death finally catches us there will be more to take out place...just as I took the place of my master." He stood again and turned back to her, a renewed resolve strengthening his tone.


"So yes, I am willing to give everything I have, everything I am, for the hope that I have made a difference even in just a few lives. For to do nothing while knowing I could...that would be an evil greater than any done by those I kill."


His gaze shifted upwards to the face of the lion staring regally out into the harbour just beyond the square. DiAngelo offered his hand to Violet then. It was an invitation to stand by him, to join the Lions of Saint Mark.


"I only take evil from this world Violet my dear. If you choose to walk away from this, I guarantee you will do so freely."


Another figure caught his eye not moments after he had finished speaking. DiAngelo caught her attention with a small wave and bowed to her in an elegant fashion. Though he would not move until he had Violet's answer.


@DawnAntalios @Adylyn

 

[DawnAntalios]

Violet remained silent, her eyes following DiAngelo behind her pale white mask. She had learnt not to trust anyone, especially not someone who was an assassin just like her. She remembered the day well when she first committed a murder. She tracked down a wealthy trader who was stealing back his merchandise from his clients and was terrorizing the poor. She was but a small girl who pretended to be interested in a trinket - and the moment the man let down his guard she ended his life. Those beady eyes and his cries reverberated in her head to this very day, yet she did not regret doing something like that. He was a monster, and she was the one delivering justice - just like DiAngelo explained his story.


Crossing her hands she frowned.


" No. " she said " Those who have the power yet act not are not innocent, just as you explained - but they are not guilty either. Many just afraid to do what is right, many just dare not to persevere against overwhelming odds. Just look at us. " she said, touching her mask as if she was to remove it, but in the end she decided against it.


" Do you think we could do what we do if we had lost anonymity? Or we could hide behind our masks no longer? " she mused " Perhaps yes... but we may never know. We are the sword in the shadow, the swift hand of justice, yet even we would be vulnerable should we get exposed. Some just do not have the luxury to act or the will for it. We are just lucky - or unlucky - to be able to be such mercenaries. "


She looked at the statue just as DiAngelo did. As she gazed at the magnificent golden lion she slowly nodded for herself. She saw the true colors of this organization now... what they wanted to conceal, what they wanted to hide and show. From but a simple speech she had deduced what she wanted to do - what she had to do. Slowly and steadily she walked up to DiAngelo.


" The world will never cease to be corrupted, DiAngelo of Venezia. " she said " The world will always have a deep, festering wound, one which will plague humanity for all eternity. There will always be lords who strive for oppression and there will always be slaves who will suffer their tyranny. "


She hesitated then stepped forward, taking his hand.


" Yet even though I know how dark this life is, how malicious are the intent of those whose soul are corrupted by money - I wish to fight. I wish to fight for if we do not stand up for he weak then no one shall. I know that this war will never cease. I know that this malice will never end. Still, now more than ever, I want to do something to set things right - through blood or other means it matters not. "


She fell to her knees.


" I would be honored to join the Lions of St Mark. I pledge myself to you here now - and I vow that I will serve until my dying breath. "


Just as she finished her vows she heard footsteps - someone was getting near them. Without hesitation she raised from the ground, her hand reaching for her poisoned needles to throw at their uninvited guest... but then paused when she saw how she was dressed. The girl - supposedly a girl, a mask was covering her face as well - was well dressed and seemed to be unarmed. Obviously Violet knew that an assassin hides weapons in plain sight and she was no fool - she was aware that the newcomer did arrive with some tricks up in her sleeve. Still, she appeared to be friendly for now so she lowered her weapons.


" It appears that your call did not only reach me. " she spoke to DiAngelo " It appears the young mistress has also come to join the ranks of the Lions. "


She tightened her grip on her needles.


" Well, for her sake I hope she does share that intent. "


@SilverFlight @Adylyn

 

[Mayfly]

• Emilia
• Aura

• 
  
  
  
  
  
  
  "Majesty." Emilia almost flinched at that, but years of practice prevented her from even showing any form of irritation. She let out a light, melodic laugh at his banter (what), and readjusted her footing. Habitually, she scanned the surroundings as Teshio began speaking. Her tone slightly mocking, she replied, "Who knows? They might help more than we'd have expected." She turned away to watch the sunset, then twirled back to face the marketplace again. "I hope you've chosen some good ones, Teshio."
  
  
  Arching an eyebrow as he discreetly passed her the piece of paper. With dainty, agile fingers, she unfolded it and saved a mental image of the printed man. He looked rather harmless, though that wasn't always the case. "I suppose so. One can only hope that the recruits do not fail their first mission." She folded the paper up again and slipped it into one of the hidden pockets in her dress, where she was hiding a few knives as well. As he continued, she made an irritated noise. "You know I absolutely despise surprises, don't you? Do tell." she replied, her tone playful.
  
  
  @SilverFlight
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
• 
  
  
  
  
  
  
  Aura put down the two letters, smiling to herself. What an interesting party this would be! Though how'd she manage to smuggle all her weaponry into such a grandiose event would be a questionable subject. She rushed to her closet and dug through for a dress that would certainly be fashionable enough for this, though something that would be good to move in would be great.
  
  
  An hour later, she was seated in front of her mirror, doing up her hair. There came a knock on her door, and a voice identified itself from the outside. "Come in!" Aura replied, giddy with excitement. Her maid, Bianca, let herself in, closing the door gently behind her. She caught sight of Aura preparing for something, and furrowed her eyebrows. "Are you going somewhere, young mistress?" The blonde turned, still pulling her hair into a braided bun, a elaborate pin held between her perfect white teeth. "Hm?" She picked up the pin daintily with slender fingers and jabbed it through her bun, patting it a few times to see if it would hold up. "Ah, I'm going for the Carnevale, Bianca! Would you like to come along?"
  
  
  Confused, Bianca walked to her mistress' side, staring at the lady's reflection. "But your father- His Maje-" Aura laughed, and stood up, gathering her skirts. "Father won't mind, Bianca. Tell him I insisted, and that if he dares punish you I shall lock myself in my chambers and not come out till you are returned." Bianca shuffled uneasily. "Are you sure, Aurelia? Don't you need an escort?" Aura grabbed her guns and her crossbows, stuffing it into a satchel. She stepped past her maid, and turned back to give the servant a bright smile.
  
  
  "When am I ever not sure?"
  
  
  When Aura bounded through the gates, however, she realised how unsure she actually was. She had her sights on the Lions, definitely, but could she bring herself to kill anyone in the first place? The blonde wondered if she was making a good choice doing this. No matter, she was here to enjoy a party regardless! Who knows, she might even be caught in the drama! That didn't sound particularly pleasing, to be honest, but Aura was all about having fun. She wandered the streets, oohing and aahing at some of the decor that had been put up.
  
  
  
  
  
  

 

[Adylyn]

Qwen saw who she was supposed to meet a the lion statue. He bowed to her in an elegant fashion, she bowed back, but saw another person standing there also. She had become a bit shy gave her a small wave daring herself not to speak. She had no idea what she could say to them. The two seemed to have been in a conversation before she came along and interrupted them.


"I am here to join the Lions of saint Mark guild." I've received the letter not too long ago."


She didn't want to say anything that would make her seem like a fool. If she didn't loosen up soon there will be a lot of awkward silence between them. What could she say. She wasn't a threat to them, she was on their side. She had made her decision as soon as she received the letter and nothing was going to make her turn back. She felt her self doubt creeping up on her again, but she pushed it down and took a cautious step forward.


She stood up straighter she needed to think of something to say.


"I know that being here is a great risk, but it would be worth it. After all this is for the people of Venice."


Feeling a little confident in herself, she relaxed a little, but no too much. If she was going to be here she had to be accustomed to meeting new and people and being in her guard at the same time.

 

[Flutterby]

In a cozy apartment in the wealthier area of the city, a beautiful girl flounced into her father's study, done up in her very best with a mask in her hand. Clutched in the other hand was the letter that had come with it, inviting her to meet a mysterious man near a statue. In her haste to get to the party, she had forgotten the other letter and its equally alluring invitation. The mask had been at the forefront of her mind, so the first letter was the one she happened to grab.


"Papa! Don't I look lovely!" She cooed, twirling in front of the wooden desk for the tired-looking man sitting behind it.


Stifling a yawn and not looking up from the mound of papers, the merchant intoned, "Yes dear. As always, you are the loveliest."


Her twirl stopped with the soft, indignant thud of a slipper. "You didn't even look Papa!"


A frustrated hand slammed onto the desk top. "Catalina, I do not have time to flatter you! I'll find a respectable young man to do that in due time!"


A pair of angry green eyes met Catalina's flaming dark chocolate ones, and the man seemed to wilt before puffing up again. "It is high time you learn, Catalina."


His sentence fell on deaf ears, for his spoiled daughter had darted from the room, self-righteous tears welling in her eyes. Back in her bed chamber, she looked stood staring at her reflection as she waited for the tears to fade without falling. As she did, her eyes fell upon the second letter sitting on the smooth marble surface. A wolf in this masque instead of a lamb..


The words echoed in her head, and with the light of rebellion in her eyes, she snatched up the letter and ran out the door, no longer waiting for her beloved brother to escort her. The other letter fell, forgotten, to the floor.


The sound of a door slamming brought Marcello out of his thoughts. He had been standing in front of himself for many minutes, pondering his appearance. For a long heartbeat, he wondered who would be slamming doors around so. Catalina!


Suddenly in a panic, the young man darted to the window, just in time to see his sister, dressed and masked, prancing quickly down the cobbled street. With a curse, he grabbed the letter that had come with the mask, the one that had her all aflutter, and ran out into the street. When he got there, she was out of sight, and he had no choice but to head to the statue and hope she was there as well. He started to jog, reaching the statue as quickly as he dared. Marcello cast his eyes about, finding an elegant young woman and two men, but he did not find the gilded mask his sister wore. He swore and paced back the way he came a few strides, before stopping under the statue with a frown on his handsome features. Damn you Cat..


@DawnAntalios @SilverFlight @Adylyn


On the other side of the city, the beauty trotted through the streets, wiggling her fingers flirtatiously at every man she passed, only to be gone before they could take a second glance. Down toward the docks, she flitted to and fro, until at last she found the proper gate. The figure standing there, accompanied by a woman she hardly noticed, wore the mask of a plague doctor, the most ominous of signs, but it sent a thrill down her spine. I have always loved power and danger, perhaps this truly is my destiny..


In a silky, sultry voice, she greeted him by the given name with a curtsy. "Teshionero"


@SilverFlight @Mayfly

 

[deer]

Walking back to her quaint and serene apartment was sometimes, no, she lied, it's always a chore, especially when she reeked of alcohol and Carnevale season has arrived with all of its grand stupor and bustling festivities. Her lips pursued into a thin line, as her brows arched lightly, and her nose scrunched up as she expressed a look of disdain when she passed an alley that smelled so foul and vile. She really needed to tell someone or rather the person in charge of cleaning the streets of the aroma that lurked around the alleyways of her apartment. Clara Faye wasn't one to like the smell of wet dog and dried blood combined. All it brought was a taste of iron in her mouth and a gag reflex that always happens to her on her travels to or from her apartment. As the young woman of only twenty-two stepped onto the metal steps to her apartment, she sighed a breath of relief, glad to past that god awful section, and was greeted with an all-too familiar scent. The scent of lilac and earl grey brushed passed her nose as she made it inside her apartment. Clara Faye was glad to be alone and in the comforts of her own home that she bought for herself at the age of sixteen. Not only had she taken her captors life but also his fortune. However, she never indulge in more than she could need, taking only what was necessary and saving it for later whenever she needed. It was blood money, but when did that ever matter when that was all she ever knew? The only time she would actually feel completely safe is when she found her parent's murderers and took vengeance on them, herself. Clara wants to see the look of twisted horror and excruciating pain on their face, giving them the same fate they had given her and her family.


Taking off her shoes, Clara had yet to notice the parcel that was placed on her window. Her feet ached terribly from standing so much and wearing those uncomfortable heels. Letting her fingers slip through the curls of her hair, Clara wondered what to do for the night. It was Carnevale and she wasn't needed at the bar, surprisingly, and was let off of work early for the night to "enjoy herself" as her boss told her. As much as she told her boss she didn't need the night off, he insisted her to do so and come back when he called for her. Hearing a slight "meow" brought Clara out of her thoughts as she saw a black cat perched on her window. He always loitered around her apartment, mostly just her window, maybe it's because she fed him or he just liked her company. Either way, she walked over and gently tugged the old window and opened it slowly just a crack to gently pet the little cat. "Hi, Gigi." She named the cat "Gigi" and for whatever reason, the name stuck and she's been calling him that ever since she met the cat. However, as she continued petting Gigi, she noticed him sitting on top of a parcel. "What do you have there?" Gigi responded with a meow as he got off of the package. Cautiously and carefully, Clara took the package in her arms, letting Gigi slip into her apartment before closing the window. Setting the package on the table, Clara stared at it blankly. "Who? What? When? Why? How?" All those questions flowed through her head as she spoke out-loud. She always received letters, never packages, so this made Clara all the more suspicious. Who was looking for her? For what reason? When did this arrive? Why did they look for her? And how did they find her? Taking her chances, Clara decided to open the parcel. Inside was a letter on top with a box and underneath was another letter. The two envelops had different seals on them: one with a winged lion with red wax and another that had a pitch black seal with skeletal hands.


Opening the envelope with the pitch black seal with skeletal hands, she took a deep breathe and carefully read the contents of the letter. However, she couldn't get through the whole content as she froze in her spot when she came upon the phrase: no light without a shadow. Realization dawned on her in that exact moment, it couldn't be . . she thought to herself, as her knees wobbled, breathing staggered, and she felt light-headed. No . . it can't. . The alluring and dark letter in her hand was the end all and be all. This person . . this this. . guild. . was start of her misfortunes and he was asking her if she'd liked to join in his crusade? Clara felt her heart being ripped apart once more, surprisingly, after all these years, never did her heart ache in such a way. She found it hard to balance or even breathe correctly. This. . these. . no, it's just a coincidence. . . right? She quickly snatched the other envelope with the winged lion seal, and soon enough, her assumption was correct. It was them. A more noble nature? Clara scoffed at those lines and tried to control her breathing, wanting to calm herself. They're the infamous guilds that she's been looking for? These two?! . The only question is. . which one had done it? She grimaced slightly, they found her and not the other way around. She didn't expect this to occur to her, so soon. Never would she become "owned" or obey the rules of another person. Clara followed her own rules and marched to her own beat. Never will she bow down to another person. She placed a hand on her forehead, rubbing her temples as she tried to process the parcel she was given. Unconsciously, her hand fell to her right shoulder as she caressesed the mark of remembrance gently. What to do . . Clara? Surely, you can't leave this be. . It's the perfect opportunity but a risky one. But, when did that ever stop you? This could be a trap to lure her out and finish her. However, Clara looked at the two seals once more, gently caressing both of the seals, feeling the importance and reality that it was in fact, not a dream and not a fake. She felt her hands forming into tight fist as she bit her lips. Over her dead body would she ever choose to willingly join into either of those guilds. However, to get to the bottom of the mystery of who killed her parents, she needed to become an insider. Or rather, she didn't need them nor did she want to join in their crusade, but, she had to do what she had to do, with any means necessary. So, would she become a sword to both Mr. DiAngelo and Teshionero? She let out a dry laugh, it's like a game of cat and mouse, only those who are one step ahead can become victorious, no? So what shall it be, DiAngelo and Teshionero? Are you really sure you want to invite lil ol' me to an old game? Clara's expression darkened as a sly smirk formed on her face, "If it's a game you want, it's a game you shall have."

 

[Satan]

Annabelle


Her thin, blistered fingers twirled the sacred like letter in her hands, her emerald eyes reading over the inked words over and over again. The index finger on her right hand continuously rubbed against the black wax imprint on the letter. Delicately setting the piece of paper on her wooden desk, in which was chipped at places and has numerous scratches, Annabelle rubbed her face. She couldn't let her Father know about this..No one as a matter of fact. But why her? She was just a Black Smith. Nevertheless, She stood up and stretched, walking to the window of her bedroom, thinking. Thinking about her decision and why it had to be made. Eventually she came to a conclusion and she knew she had to go.


Annabelle tucked the letters in a cluttered drawer that had a whole bunch of books, paper and pencils stocked in it. After she opened the box, she slip the gift under her desk and sat on her bed. She already finished her work at the shop for the day, that's when she found the letter. It was sitting on her front porch.. good thing her Father decided to close the shop or he would've been the curious one to find it. When she first picked it up, the paper of the envelope placing a paper cut on her thumb, the box itself getting smeared with her blood. Oh well though, right?


When the time came, Annabelle got ready and tied the mask to her face. The moon's light gleaming against the golden colored mask made it sparkle more, along with her blonde hair contrasting with it. Annabelle went to one of her dresser drawers and pulled out her dagger, she actually hand crafted herself. Attaching the weapon to her side, she snuck out the front door and proceeded to the Carnevale. Practically jogging there in her brown combat boots, long black leggings and a flowy skirt over top that reached the middle of her thighs, and a black long sleeved shirt. The night was a bit chilled for her but, she has felt colder.


he came in contact with all of the beautiful lights, different dresses and masks people were wearing. She always love this time of year.. The dancing, romance, adventures for everyone else, they made her feel happiness. Walking, she heard a little "Splsh" noise, looking down to see she stepped in to what seemed to be crimson syrup.. blood. Slowly rising her foot from it, she looked over to see the body. All she did was swallow thickly and walk around it, eventually coming up to a group of people shyly. She licked her chapped lips, knotting her hands together. She felt like she may have been intruding so...she awaited for someone to converse with her first, she didn't want to interrupt anyone or anything.