- Zodiac - [Inactive]

[IAmEnzo]

<-


| Morning |


| Wednesday |


| September 25, 2014 |


| Behind ASH |


| The Soccer field |

​

In all honesty, Dominic didn't feel as if telling James was a smart move. Of course everybody who was dragged into Limbo had a right to know something, but when it came to spirits, life or death situations, and an entire ethereal world, it would have been better kept in the dark. The mysteries surrounding Limbo and the Zodiacs were still fresh and unknown to them, and who knows what James might do with such information?


Nonetheless, James thanked Dominic for what happened that night, as well as reassuring him that James wasn't exactly the useless one in the group. Though, a pipe would do little to help them in case of trouble. "I appreciate it, James." Dominic replied with a warm tone. "But we're still figuring out what's going on. I feel it'll be too dangerous for-.. regular people like you." Oh screw it. It was too late. Dominic had already told James about what he knew - now James would be standing beside him on the frontlines, constantly getting himself in danger when the enemy would eventually mistake him for an actual threat. I'm such an idiot, but whatever. If it came down to it, Dominic would protect him, just as much as he would anyone else around him.


"Ferrari!"


This commanding voice wasn't Phillip this time around, but the team captain himself. "Get your rear over here and do some drills! Stop eating everything up!" Dominic sighed, setting down his bottle for future use. "Excuse me, James." At once, he answered the call by sprinting to one end of the field, beside the large net goal where the team was gathering. The team captain performed a mental headcount of his team members, noticing he was missing a few. "Where's Boris and Reese?" The sound of Reese made some of the team - no, the entire team nervous. "R-Reese passed away." called a geeky team mate. "Really? Ahh, well, RIP. Boris?" The captain's question was directed towards Dominic, seeing as how his piercing glare landed on him. "U-uh, she's coming."


"Remind me why we have a girl on our team? Why can't they just make a female Soccer team like the Basketball Club?" One of the more blunt members of the Ghouls asked a question that received mixed reactions throughout the group. Dominic for one merely ignored it. "I mean, she'll just slow us down." Another teammate spoke up in the girl's defense, sort of. "Girls are faster than boys, dumbass. Now shut up."

| Some time later... |


|

​

|


The entire team had split up to perform their warmup drills. In that time, the bleachers were beginning to fill with both students, teachers, and adults alike. An array of vehicles parked outside the field's entrance and the smell of grilled food indicated that the game was going to be a big one. The Ghoul's first game opening their season. Dominic knew it was important to start strong out of the gates, even if he truly wasn't a sports person deep down.


He was practicing his running by circling the field with the other members. With each moment, the smell of the cooked food further distracted him from the more important of activities. In fact, the entire team was complaining about it affecting them. "Who the hell grills right next to a Soccer game? Are they fans of the 'Away' team?" Asked a boy to Dominic's left. "The 'Away' team is the Bears, and no. None of their fans would dare show their faces here." Dominic tried his best to keep focused on working out, but every time they passed by a certain point on the field, each of the three would get a strong blast of grilled steak and hotdogs. "Guhh-.. that smell.." "I haven't even ate anything this morning!" Dominic's face was showing obvious struggle in the situation.


It's important for you to block out all other senses in the heat of the moment, Dominic. Dominic turned his head to see Kenshi running amongst them, as if he were a hidden member on their team. When they passed by that spot once more, Kenshi broke off, running off of the field towards the source of the smell. Wh-.. what the hell?! Quite the role model, Kenshi! I'm not a part of your group, so I don't have to ignore my senses. Kenshi had already snagged a piece of food from the grill while the cook wasn't looking. Damn you..

​

 

[Kiosk]

Library


~Chattin' with The Dame~

​

Nikky was almost worried Elijah wouldn't show but the entity popped up just like she said she would.


His reaction was great but bittersweet, Nikky wondered why he still had a pouty face. Was he really that concerned? She rolled her eyes, the atmosphere was reminiscent of a certain family member but she felt bad and she absolutely hated that feeling. maybe it was that small piece of her that always wanted people to be happy that made her run up to Chickadee and call for his attention.


"Hey Damian." she ran until she was walking besides him. She blew a stray hair out of her face, obviously annoyed.


"It wasn't my choice you know and besides," She looked forward, "If I can help others, then... hey, why not?" She smiled looking down at her hands.


"Elijah and me got it, so quit all the pouting. I'd rather see you smile."

 

[Crystalline]

<p><a href="<fileStore.core_Attachment>/monthly_2014_05/57a8bf5480f4b_HoshinoShiromiyaIcon2.png.27eefbe97032dbab6d8d2e72bf3e666e.png" class="ipsAttachLink ipsAttachLink_image"><img data-fileid="19302" src="<fileStore.core_Attachment>/monthly_2014_05/57a8bf5480f4b_HoshinoShiromiyaIcon2.png.27eefbe97032dbab6d8d2e72bf3e666e.png" class="ipsImage ipsImage_thumbnailed" alt=""></a></p>


.::Hoshino Shiromiya::.


~At Cafe Maria~


~With Akira & Shun~




​

Hoshino smiled over at Akira, and nodded in response to her introduction. "The pleasure is mine," Hoshino spoke politely, and then she heard the giggle that escaped her lips. Due to Akira's more mature sounding voice, it was a surprise - but, it was nothing less than pleasant. "What a cute laugh," Hoshino complimented her sincerely, and then put up an apologetic hand. "I've got to get back to work, but I hope we can talk again sometime!" She stated in a euphoric nature, and then she made her way back to where the orders were being set out. They kept coming out one by one, but the big rush seemed to be calming down as time passed on by. This made Hoshino breathe a sigh of relief, due to the fact that she knew Cassandra must have been stressing out. As she walked past her, exchanging orders, Cassandra stopped her with a gentle grasp to her shoulder. "Thank you for applying here," she began in a grateful tone, "I'm really glad I'm not one of the only waitresses anymore."


Hoshino just shook her head, which caused her mystical white hair to cascade over her shoulders elegantly. "Don't worry about it," Hoshino spoke kindly, and, with that, they parted ways to continue working once more. It was then that a small quiet time arrived, when all the orders were delivered and nobody was really waiting. However, the newer customers - those like Shun and the girl with him - were still waiting to be served. Hoshino hesitated and held Gom close to her torso, but eventually she riled up the courage to make her way over to their table. They seemed to be in intimate conversation, so she simply walked up to them quietly, waiting for a silent moment between them before speaking up. "Have you decided on what you'd like to order?" Hoshino asked politely, hugging Gom close to her as she tried to maintain her cool. For some reason, knowing Shun was a host as well was exciting, but she knew she had to hold back her curiosity. She felt so compelled to talk to him.


It was then that Hoshino slowly began realizing things she didn't quite understand before. Suddenly, her memorization skills improved drastically. She didn't have to go back and ask any questions to her customers; they said their order once, she knew it like the back of her hand. Hell, she pretty much memorized the orders of everyone in that place all in one go. Cassandra was impressed by her, and Hoshino was sure she was wondering how she did it. I've always had nice memorization, but this.. This is different, she realized, which is when she began wondering if this is another weird ability that came with her Zodiac. I've really got to try contacting Cecilia later, don't I? Hoshino realized, suppressing a shiver. Instead, she simply smiled warmly towards the customers before her, and not a trace of discomfort or worry could be seen on her face. She simply waited for them to order, meanwhile her mind was running a million miles a minute.





I've really got to ask about all of this stuff sooner or later.

 

[The J]

As Dominic walked away, James felt... he felt useless. he had wanted to be able to help Dominic and the others involved with the Zodiacs. Before now, he'd never really been interested in helping people, more interested in their money, really. Now, as soon as he wanted to help, he'd been shot down, and basically told he couldn't handle it. it almost felt like when he got pissed off at Dom before, and he snapped back at him. He'd been so sure he could help somehow, but Dom wasn't going to let him.


"Dom..." He said weakly, as Dominic walked away, half reaching out for him. But he hadn't heard, as James looked on at him as he went to do some drills, feeling downfallen at Dominic's reaction.


He actually saw Dominic... as a role model, was the best way to put it. He looked up to him, in a way. He was almost heroic to him, stopping Damian, then him and the others taking down hierophant like they did. Well, now he wasn't sure quite what he thought of him any more. he'd finally got Dom for a chat, and as soon as he did, Dom told him that he was useless to him. Not the world greatest hero, exactly, James thought.

 

[Dead]

-Front of the School-


-Interacting with Sam-

​

Alice rolled her eyes when Sam laughed at her own lack of knowledge of sports especially a sport that is so well known around the world that everyone should have at least some knowledge in. Puffing her cheeks out a bit, pouting at Sam but then he apologized, Alice accepting his apology but still felt useless for the game. Then Sam made another offer for her, he offered to assist her in learning more about soccer but IF she lead him to the library.


The offer was childish but it was a fair one but Alice didn't know if it would really benefit her but she did need to learn a thing or two about soccer. Finally make her decision, Alice accepted,"Fine, I'll take you to the library and in return, you have to help me improve in soccer." Alice said, flicking him on the forehead,"I'll be waiting at the school gates for ya then." Alice said and went off towards the field, waving goodbye to Sam as she left,"Remember!" Alice called out and ran off.

---------


-Soccer Field-


-Interacting with No One-

​

Running down the stairs, Alice ran over to the bench where the coach sat at, her jersey messy from changing in the locker room so fast,"S-sorry for being late Coach!" Alice said and looked over at the field to see everyone were running around, Dominic among the many bodies. Looking around her, she couldn't believe how tense the place was, the people who came to watch all line up to see the game,"Wow... I never thought it would be like this." Alice thought amazed at how a soccer game worked.

 

[TerraBooma]

Heading to the Bleachers


By himself

​

Sam grins as Alice heads off to go and TRY to play soccer, He himself heads to the bleachers, full of fans, to be honest Sam's surprised at the amount of fans from the school, because as far as he was aware, Soccer was just a sport, nothing special right? He sighs, hoping that the crowd doesn't get that rowdy. Apparently his school team was going up against the Bears, and the crowd was a bit uneasy. He intends to ask around but never gets the chance as everyone keeps offering him food when he gets close to them. Sam guesses that the school has a strong fanbase and hopes things don't get out of hand...With a shrug he finds a seat in a relatively unoccupied part of the bleachers, pulling out his laptop and doing some research on both teams while he waits for the game to start.


(Crap post pressed for time.)

 

[The J]

Still feeling pretty awful about what Dominic said to him, James saw another boy sit relatively near him. Looking to the right, he saw him on his laptop, and he realised that he was that guy from before, the one who was also joining security club. Sam, was it?


"Hey," he called to him, "You're Sam right? I don't think we've been really introduced, my name's James, and I'll be joining you as a newcomer to security club. It's a pleasure to meet you."


James felt as if he might have been a bit too forthcoming, but hey, he was going to be on the security team with him, he needed to be on good terms with him - and besides, it's much easier to con someone who thinks that they can trust you...


(Sorry for the short post, not really sure what else to write...)

 

[TerraBooma]

Bleachers


Talking to James

​

Sam looks up from his computer at the James, he smiles. "Yah, we met a few days ago. Nice to get to talk to you James, I guess that means the headmaster let you in too?" He laughs. "It was stressful for me, he interrogated me pretty well." He looks back over the field. "You know any of the players? I know Alice, if you've met her, and I think...Dominic was his name? Dominic...Darien...something like that right?" Sam wishes he could remember the name more as he seemed to be one of the people doing whatever they were doing with Alice. "He's on the team too, I saw him practicing.


So far Sam likes James, he seems alright, if a bit forward so far. If they're going to be rookies on the security team he'll need to trust him to have his back, and so far James hasn't done anything exceptionally off putting. At least not yet. Sam still has only made one friend, Alice, although the number jumps to two if you count Akira, whom Sam doesn't know what she thinks of him.

 

[The J]

Bleachers


Talking to Sam




​

"Uh, yeah, I guess I know Alice a bit, and Dom fairly well. I probably know a couple of other people on there as well. So, you met many other people than me, Alice, and Dom?" James asked him, wanting to get to know who he might get into bad books with if Sam were to discover his tricks. he was also mildly curious, and this would help make him trust him, this idle chatter. He didn't imagine he had many friends at this school, being that he hadn't been here long. Then again, James hadn't really been at the school long himself if he thought about it, due to, well... dying temporarily...


As he said the name of Alice, he noticed a slight flicker of something in his eyes. As if... as if liked her. Not just in a friendly way. As if he really cared for her. That would be interesting to watch playing out...

 

[Zage Finnian]

Zage had went into town to try and find a part time job or just explore and get to know the town better. She walked around the town square and went into shops to look at all the neat trinkets they had to display. She bought a few and continued her walk to find a nice cafe that was hiring. After seeing that a cafe called 'Cafe Maria' was hiring she smiled and walked inside, a little bell ringing as she opened the door.

 

[zombifiedkitt]

<p><a href="<fileStore.core_Attachment>/monthly_2014_05/BeFunky_farra.jpg.jpg.46cd3e8aa8973185f9c76322b5d2bb13.jpg" class="ipsAttachLink ipsAttachLink_image"><img data-fileid="19289" src="<fileStore.core_Attachment>/monthly_2014_05/BeFunky_farra.jpg.jpg.46cd3e8aa8973185f9c76322b5d2bb13.jpg" class="ipsImage ipsImage_thumbnailed" alt=""></a></p>


|Farra Rei|


In the infirmary.

​

"I did get a Zodiac through a dream. The portal thing was my fault, I didn't realize that it had sucked you in by accident. "


Farra smiled. "Hey, that wasn't your fault! That was a pretty entertaining experience, if you ask me." She stopped talking, as Hotaru continued.





"Is everyone okay? From the blackout, I mean. Why the sudden questions? How did you get that drink from your dream? ...Where is everyone, anyways?"


Farra answered them, one by one


"As far as I know, nobody except for you has been hospitalized. Secondly, I'm asking so many questions because I want answers. Thirdly, (Is that a word?) this thing called Nexus gave it to me. Weird, huh? He said--It said-- that it's main purpose was to aid me. And lastly...everyone's elsewhere. Technically, I'm not supposed to be here, since the school is closed."


Farra stopped for a moment and thought, Maybe I could try something...


"Hey, watch this!"


She said slowly to Hotaru. She turned away from the bloodied bed and said loudly.


"Hey, Nexus? I need some---aid, yeah!"


Farra sat down on the bed and waited.


//TOOK SO LONG SORRY//

 

[Father Voltaire]

Damian peered down at Nikky with disapproving eyes. All this talk of her having a Zodiac only made him wonder what would happen if she joined the fray... It may be Damian's pessimism but he didn't trust Nikky risking her life. He didn't trust anyone doing it matter of fact. He'd rather just himself do it. Better himself than the others. He wasn't new to losing someone, but he was new to losing a friend to death. That he knew would probably scar him. These are the first real batch of friends he's ever had and he didn't want them throwing their lives at monsters and other spirits that could just take them away from him at any given moment. "Nikky. I already know this is just going to turn into a back and forth argument. So do me a favor, keep behind the lines if you can. Don't be a hero now that you've got a Zodiac. I don't want to see you torn apart by some rabid demon or something. I fear that enough just being around you all." Elijah pouted and floated over in front of Damian, looking like she had a bone to pick. "Hey, hey you stubborn Goth! Don't go counting us out! Who made you boss, eh!? Girl may need to get used to my powers and all, but doesn't mean she's incompetent! Watch! We're going to end up savin--" Damian walked around her, completely ignoring the Zodiac entirely. They were a couple of block away from the Library, and Damian was focused on just getting inside and avoiding this argument altogether. He stopped at the corner, waiting for his light. "As much as you are probably capable I don't need someone else endangered over these Hollows and such. This was all my fault in the first place." Elijah turned her her head back at Damian, mouth agape in shock that he just pushed aside everything she was saying. "You have bad taste in guys, Nikky." Elijah snapped, arms crossed.

 

[TerraBooma]

Bleachers


Talking to James

​

Sam pauses to think at James's question, not noticing any of what's going on in his head. "I met some others, Akira's alright, and I there was a girl yesterday named Hoshiro...who else..." He snaps his fingers. "Nikky as well I believe, I met her when some guy tried to steal something or other from her a few days ago."


So far James is alright, although Sam can feel a wave of something coming off of him, while its not enough to deter him from talking he's starting to feel a bit wary of James, who seems to be plotting something, not that Sam knows what, or even if he IS plotting something for sure. But there's just something odd about him, he just can't place it. "So." he continues. "You know anything about the security club? I don't know all that much to be honest."

 

[The J]

"Ah, well, I know roughly the same as you, as I'm new to it. It's my first club, actually, because I, uh... I was ill for a long time."


Then, James thought back to when he ran out the morgue, and saw Damian kill Red.


"Actually.. I suppose I knew about Red a bit. He was the old principal's son, and head of the club. Dud you hear what happened to him?"

 

[TerraBooma]

Bleachers


Talking to James

​

Sam shakes his head, a curious look on his face. "Nah, I transferred late because of some papers being put in the wrong pile, we have a new headmaster though right? Meaning something happened to the old one, and I assume it involved his son Red?" Sam heard a few rumours about the old principal but he doesn't really know what to believe, so James probably knows more for sure. "Why the change in headmasters?"

 

[The J]

James thought back, back to Red's death. It was a long while ago now, but it still burned fresh in his mind. Red, dressed like a tramp and with the face to match, had shot twice at Damian, one shot being blocked by his shadow. The other hit his shoulder, while Damian retaliated with spikes of darkness, shooting them at Red. He never stood a chance, and was dead pretty soon afterwards, while Damian ran away. He still didn't know why Red shot him, he had never really asked.


"Red... he, uh... he died, poor guy, and his dad left to grieve. That's all I know about what happened to him, really. I have no idea, what happened to the security club. I imagine they elected a .ew head, and moved on."

 

[Kiosk]

On the way to the library...?


Interacting with the Stubborn Goth

​

All that she was saying or trying to say just went in one ear and out the other to him. He Isn't a bad guy, she knew this. Just... stubborn.


"If you're just going to wave off everything I say then don't bother coming along with me." she didn't look at him but focused her eyes on the light, waiting for it to change. "Though you'll probably come along anyways because you're worried about me or some crap..." Nikky had to deal with this kind of thing all the time. Being told to hold back or not do what she wanted to for the sake of others upon request. She was finally getting out of that slump and here Damian was telling her to do it all over again. If she was going to risk her life it would be her choice and her choice alone.


"And shut up. For crying out loud, it isn't your fault and if it was, who the hell said you could just carry the weight of the world on your shoulders?!" She remained quiet for a moment looking at the pavement.


"You're just so... Ugh!" she struggled trying to find the right word until she finally just gave up and took a moment to cool own before continuing, "And if you're really concerned then just cover me when I need it because no matter what you say, I'll do what I want." Nikky sighed and closed her eyes, "I mean it, don't try and get in my way." it came off as a threat, maybe empty, but Nikky didn't bother correcting herself.

 

[Azukai]

|Cafe Maria|


|Shun : Ashlei|


The Truth: Part 2

​

Under any other circumstance, the presence of a zodiac at his side would have easily garnered Shun's attention toward the girl wishing to take his order; however, with new hindsight of what had occurred in the past, Ashlei's declaration had sent Shun's mind into whirlwind of emotion that hindered his usual calm composure.


"You have been using my parent's funds to finance your college tuition."


Shun's tone was cold as he spoke his understanding of the situation. Upon hearing his words, Ashlei quickly shifted her gaze to the table, and without further conversation, simply sat shaking with the hint of tears welling in the corner of her eyes. Taking his friend's aversion and silence as confirmation for his declaration, Shun let out a deep sigh in response to the sudden light that shined new understanding on several mysteries that occurred in the past.


"So the bargain my mother was referring to was the payment of your tuition at the cost of watching over me...no...at the cost of bringing me back to my parents."


Shun broke into a fit of laughter as everything suddenly made perfect sense. Ashlei's past attempts to reconcile him with his mother; his mother's words concerning his friend's existence; and even his father's declaration from the call.


"S-Shun, I-I di--"


"You didn't mean for me to find out? You didn't wish to hurt me more than my own parents have? The very parents you more than well knew would only use you, and yet you still chose their help?"


At this point in time, Ashlei had entirely broken out into a fit of sobs from Shun's harsh conclusion; however, rather than fall under the pressure of the situation, a look of defiance mixed with her sorrow as she opened her mouth to counter argue the one-sided declarations of her friend.


"D-Do you think I-I had a c-choice? I-I don't have a golden card that pays for my life. Art is my life, and I was given an opportunity without a way to take hold of it.


I have dreams, Shun, something...something, you haven't had nor would understand. I was given an opportunity and I seized it. Can you blame me still?"


Shun was never one to lose composure in nearly any situation in life; however, as Ashlei chose to target his existence with her words, a peculiar feeling seemed to overcome his self. The words of his friend brought about a wave of past memories which in turn brought feelings of hatred and rage to replace his usually calm emotions.





"Dreams? I haven't had dreams since they were ground to dust, burned to ashes, and scattered over my hollow self. You were given support throughout your life; you were given love and happiness that developed your self; you were given an opportunity to seize your desires and make them reality!"


Aimlessly smashing his right hand into the table, the small tea cup, holding his complementary water and unfortunate to be in the way, was shattered into several small pieces while a small pool of blood began welling under his pierced hand; however, even with his new injury, Shun continued his fit of insanity without care for the multiple pains that afflicted him.


"What was I given?! I was given the golden key to a world that was defined for me! You want the golden card that pays for my life, then take it! I have resented everything about my position since the time of my childhood.


Oh wait, I forgot the funny part, hah. I wasn't given a childhood was I?!


I was given the responsibility to become the perfect heir. The precious son who could become everything my parents wanted, but nothing that I wanted; Clay in the hands of my parents, the artists. That is what I was..--"


A sharp pain cut the words from his mouth as he reached with his right hand to apply pressure against the side of his now throbbing head. Time would pass in partial silence with only the sounds of Ashlei's sobs filling the void. Taking a quick glance around the cafe, Shun noticed the attention he had garnered from his sudden outburst, and the blood that was slowly dripping off the table and from his now blood soaked face.Unknown to himself, Shun would have appeared as pale as a ghost and his body would have been trembling beyond that oh normal chills. As his gaze would meet with the pained sorrow on his friend's face, horror would overtake his own appearance before he would quickly reach into his pocket, retrieve two twenty dollar bills, and leave them on the table.


"I'm sorry for the commotion and the cup."


Rising to his feet, Shun hurriedly exited the cafe without another word, leaving Ashlei to her tears that would last for several minutes more until she too would follow in suit and depart in silence.

 

[Crystalline]

<p><a href="<fileStore.core_Attachment>/monthly_2014_05/57a8bf562e3a3_HoshinoShiromiyaIcon2.png.f0a5c98fbfdd66d33acfb27e70c7c775.png" class="ipsAttachLink ipsAttachLink_image"><img data-fileid="19390" src="<fileStore.core_Attachment>/monthly_2014_05/57a8bf562e3a3_HoshinoShiromiyaIcon2.png.f0a5c98fbfdd66d33acfb27e70c7c775.png" class="ipsImage ipsImage_thumbnailed" alt=""></a></p>


.::Hoshino Shiromiya::.


~At Cafe Maria~


~With Shun~




​

Hoshino was left in a complete state of awe as she looked upon the chaos unfolding before her. S-Shun..? Hoshino's voice wouldn't work as she simply spoke his name in her thoughts. She listened to the commotion, watching as the mayhem the two created grasped the attention of nearly the entire cafe. Parents money.. Is Shun's family wealthy? Hoshino wondered, and though she wanted to reach out to him, put a comforting hand on his shoulder, and act as some sort of voice of reason, her body just wouldn't move. She simply held Gom close to her torso, watching and listening. It was clear that Shun didn't get along with his family well and had no desire whatsoever to return to them, for Hoshino could tell that he had a strong distaste for them. In fact, 'distaste' would probably be an understatement. The look in his eyes was that of something closer to sheer hatred.. Though, Hoshino could also detect a hint of sadness within his deep irises, as well.


The girl before him didn't seem to have wanted to hurt him with what she was admitting. In fact, it seemed like she regretted it and was completely ashamed. Still, it appeared that Shun was far too hurt to show any mercy. He just yelled at her, appearing to be in shock and denial about the whole ordeal. The girl was tripping over her words terribly, and with each and every sentence stuttered, Hoshino could feel her heart breaking. It was times like this that she almost disliked her ability to walk in another's shoes. Both of the roles here were filled with so much pain and agony, and Hoshino could understand it all. In fact, as the conversation - or, more so a heated argument at this point - progressed, Hoshino found herself relating more and more to Shun. What the other girl did wasn't exactly wrong, but it could be viewed as a form of betrayal. Hoshino couldn't imagine how used Shun must have been feeling in that moment.


"D-Do you think I-I had a c-choice? I-I don't have a golden card that pays for my life. Art is my life, and I was given an opportunity without a way to take hold of it. I have dreams, Shun, something...something, you haven't had nor would understand. I was given an opportunity and I seized it. Can you blame me still?" The girl cried.


"Dreams? I haven't had dreams since they were ground to dust, burned to ashes, and scattered over my hollow self. You were given support throughout your life; you were given love and happiness that developed your self; you were given an opportunity to seize your desires and make them reality!" Shun exclaimed, and Hoshino winced at the statement. She could understand, for her mother treated her the same exact way. Her dreams and aspirations, put down, reduced to ash and scattered, tattered pieces..





She understood him so much that it hurt.


"S-Shun--" Hoshino finally spoke out, but it was then that he slammed his hand on table blindly, resulting in him shattering a tea cup caught in the crossfire. His hand began to bleed, but even then, he acted like it was nothing. He continued to go on, and Hoshino shut her eyes tightly at the fervent rage within his words. "What was I given?! I was given the golden key to a world that was defined for me! You want the golden card that pays for my life, then take it! I have resented everything about my position since the time of my childhood. Oh wait, I forgot the funny part, hah. I wasn't given a childhood was I?! I was given the responsibility to become the perfect heir. The precious son who could become everything my parents wanted, but nothing that I wanted; Clay in the hands of my parents, the artists. That is what I was..--" He finally cut off, for pain seemed to finally catch up on him. He pressed a hand against his temple, seeming to have developed a headache.


Then, the entire cafe went silent. The only sound that could be heard was the sound of the girls agonized cries, and even Hoshino felt like getting a little teary. Instead, she simply looked over towards Shun, whose face was coated in crimson. "S-Shun, you're--" Hoshino began, but was cut off by him speaking suddenly again. He left forty dollars on the table - which was much more than Hoshino needed - and apologized for the bedlam. It was then that he made his departure, and that was also when Hoshino shot a look at Cassandra. It seemed to express her want to go after him, for Cassandra nodded in response. "It's break time, anyways," she stated with a shrug and a smile, trying to lighten the mood. "Free cheese cake for everybody!" Cassandra declared, and immediately the mood of the cafe was fixed. Relieved about that, Hoshino grabbed the money and made her way out the door as quick as she possibly could.


"Shun!" She called out, and began running after his figure down the sidewalk. "Shun! Wait!" She continued to call until she caught up with him. She put her hands over her knees, catching her breath before continuing to speak. Once she did, she held the money he left out for him to take back. "Are.. Are you--" she began, though she knew what she was about to ask was a stupid, stupid question. Obviously he wasn't alright or okay or anything close to it. With pursed lips, she looked at his injured hand and let out a small breath. "You.. Should get that looked at," was all she could say, though her expression showed her concern and worry - not to mention how much she understood everything he just said. She figured now wasn't the time to talk about it though. All she wanted to do was be there for him, at the very least.


She just.. Couldn't leave him alone; not after what she just heard.


Please, please feel better.

 

[IAmEnzo]

-->


| Afternoon |


| Wednesday |


| September 25, 2014 |


| ASH |


| Infirmary |

​

On cue with Farra's words, Nexus materialized for the two to gaze at. He left behind a digital effect, like a distortion, after his appearance. "Ms.Rei? I am your helper, not your trophy." A glitchy-sounding sigh escaped from the robot as he waved around the room, not exactly focused on the smaller girl, but on the room itself for a moment. "Blood on the bedsheets, as well as your friend, Ms.Nakamura. Are you injured?" Regardless of the girl's answer, Nexus scanned her anyway.

| Cafe Maria |

​

The quickened pace of Shun's heart as well as the tempered atmosphere he caused bought the attention of Bastion. As a mask, there wasn't anything he could do to appeal to Shun other than merely calling out his name in a worried thought. Shun..

| Behind ASH |


| The Soccer Field |




​

By now, warmups had been completed. Thankfully Alice had made it on time before it ended. The activity did well to avoid tiring out the players, but enough to shake them out of their early morning fatigue. A school bus pulled up, swinging open it's double doors to let out a torrent of teenagers. Their uniforms sported the enemy team, and their attitude toward winning was no different than the home team. In no time, the bleachers were nearly full and the small driveways were crowded with parked cars. The games were officially about to begin.

​

 

[zombifiedkitt]

"Ms.Rei? I am your helper, not your trophy." Farra rolled her eyes and opened her mouth, but the floating bot took the words out of her mouth. "Blood on the bedsheets, as well as your friend, Ms.Nakamura. Are you injured?" Farra sighed. "That's why I called you down here!" she exclaimed. "Can you help Hotaru with her bloody problem?" She flushed, then stammered, "N-not that problem, the fight during the blackout. Get her some clothes and maybe some new bed sheets...please." She blew a strand of blue hair out of her face. "And don't call me Ms. Rei, please...it's too formal. Just refer to me as Farra."

 

[Father Voltaire]

At the corner of Brookfield's Free Library|Arguing with Nikky




​

Damian sighed, and let the light turn green. Despite it changing, he stood there and let Nikky pass. It seemed Nikky didn't understand the implications of these battles and what having a Zodiac could entitle. "If you don't want me to get in your way then I apologize for warning you about how fast these Hollows can take your life. You saw Hotaru didn't you? Never mind it. This is going on deft ears anyway." Damian turned tail into the other direction of the school and left Nikky to the library herself. He didn't feel like arguing with someone who hasn't seen what facing these demons are like. Nikky didn't quite understand the possibilities of what could happen due to a few rookie mistakes. It no longer concerned Damian. As he was walking back into the direction of the school he heard whistles blowing, and could hear the sound of something being hit. He turned his head to the source of the nose and saw that the yard was open. There were two groups of people in sports uniforms playing what looked like, "Soccer? There's a game today? Despite the school being closed? Doesn't Dom' play soccer?" Damian tapped his index finger on his lips. He should probably spread the news that Nikky has a Zodiac to Dominic anyway. Better now than when there's an actual Hollow attack. "And if she has one, who knows who else got one. These Zodiacs seems to be appearing in groups, if my guess about Alice, Hotaro, and Dom' are right." Damian didn't feel like navigating the campus to go hit the yard, so instead he slipped into his shadowy form and slithered about the ground. It took a half a minute but he emerged under the bleachers. Walking around the sides and climbing his way up, he got a good view of the field and he did indeed see Dominic playing with his team. "Funny. I don't remember him saying he had a game. Whatever. I guess I'll watch." Damian hunched over and watched the game, bored but it was something...


...Elijah caught up to Nikky, and watched Damian as he walked away. Leaving the two alone. "Hmm... While you're in good hands with me Nikky, he does have a point. Hollows aren't anything to sneeze at. They're pretty ruthless creatures. I'd suggest you get better with using my cello before an attack does happen. They're random and unplanned so it can just... You know. Pop up."

~




​

From his damaged throne in his Limbo Hierophant sat with his leg crossed over the other. He tapped his fingers against the armrest, growing ever more impatient. In front of him, a wormhole opened. From within came his host, holding that tome he used to control the Hollows. It was giving off a faint, blue glow. Hierophant eyed the book, though he wasn't surprised. "More has assigned hosts, Hierophant." Hierophant sat up straight and coupled his hands together. "I know, Dario. More to the slaughter if it's those brats we saw before." Dario flipped a page in the book and his face was stricken with shock and displeasure. "...One of them was Nexus." Hierophant's eyes narrowed at Dario, looking a little more engaged into his hosts words than before. "Nexus? That ball? The Koi fishes other half?" Dario nodded whilst keeping his eyes on the book. "Yes, that Nexus." Hierophant rolled his eyes and slouched back. He squeezed the bridge of his nose and groaned in aggravation. He rose up from his seat and strafed the room. "Fantastic. Now that conduit is running free with some neanderthal, not even sure how the damned thing works! These Zodiacs don't even know what they're doing anymore." Dario growled and slammed the book shut, sharing Hierophant's disappointment. "I'll be working on getting those two ready. Hopefully they shouldn't be too difficult a catch." Dario vanished within his wormhole and returned to reality to embark on his mission. As for Hierophant, he sat back on his throne and rubbed his temples. "This is just becoming more of a pain in my arse."

 

[AiDee]

• Hotaru Nakamura

• 
  
  
  
  • Appearance
  • Health

  • 
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
  • 
    
    
    Happiness
    
    
    ???
    
    
    Health
    
    
    ?????????????????????????
    
    
    Strength
    
    
    ??????????????
    
    
    Emotional
    
    
    ?????????
    
    
    Mental
    
    
    ????????????????
    
    
    
  
  
  
  

Hotaru felt herself shrink inside. Hospitalized? She guessed that it was likely for her to be the only one hospitalized. She rubbed her arm and hugged the pillow tighter. She was called to attention when a new name was mentioned. Nexus? An image of some sort of ball appeared, almost like a hologram. The machine spoke with a low key voice, "Ms.Rei? I am your helper, not your trophy." It spoke! Hotaru blinked a bit as it examined the room, "Blood on the bedsheets, as well as your friend, Ms.Nakamura. Are you injured?" Hotaru was about to respond with an answer through her blood, but the machine seemed to be examining her despite whatever she wanted. Hotaru looked away and clutched the pillow tighter. She didn't exactly like this type of attention. Biting her lower lip, she felt herself getting burned up.


Farra seemed to be speaking with Nexus. Hotaru couldn't hear, all she could could feel was her heart pulsing loudly. The girl huffed out loudly dropping the pillow on the ground. Her cheeks were a bright red as her sight was limited to the ground. She stepped over the pillow and headed for the door. Attention or not, she just wanted to go into her room and die alone.

 

[Azukai]

|Streets|


|Shun : Cecilia|

​

Tears and blood rolled down Shun's face as he stormed through the streets with his emotions in unrest from the scene which had just occurred. The boy in his turmoil wanted to scream at the top of his lungs; however, it was the gentle sound of Bastion's worried voice that pulled his conscious back to reality.


"B-Bastion."


Shun whimpered his zodiac's name as he came to a halt, fell to the ground, and grasped his eyes in an attempt to stop the flow of his sorrows. With blood now flowing from his face and hand, he was certainly a sight for the public to see, yet at this point in time, appearances were beyond his care.


"W-What is w-wrong with me, Bastion. T-That w-wasn't me...I-I...n-not....n-n-o..."


Stuck in the thoughts of his denial, Shun hardly recognized Hoshino's voice as she approached him with the intent to give comfort; however, it was the presence of an additional zodiac that inevitably made him turn his attention to the familiar girl carrying a teddy bear in her arms. As she commented on his hand, Shun looked down at the pool of blood which had welled on the sidewalk from his still open wound, and it was with a simply shrug that he dismissed the injury.


"I-I didn't mean to snap at Ashlei. I j-just...some...I just couldn't help it. I know she did what was best for her own life, and I can hardly hold that against her.


It's my parents at fault, but I still..."


Realizing he was beginning to ramble in a pitiful attempt to justify his actions, Shun shut his mouth and simply sat in silence with his gaze focused on the mysterious bear that seemed to emanate some form of unique power. Changing the topic away from the drama, a weak smile came to Shun's face as he realized the similarity Hoshino now held in terms of the supernatural.


"You got a zo--"


Shun's words were cut off by a highly peculiar scene as a small girl dressed in tattered pajamas seemed to climb out of Gom's now expended mouth and position herself at Hoshino's side.


"From Bastion's description, I figured you would be more stable than a blithering lunatic."


Cecilia sighed at her own words as she stepped forward and began inspecting Shun's injured hand. Touching each minuscule shard stuck in his hand, the spirit decomposed the porcelain's existence, before taking a needle and threading two particular types of thread into the wound. Shun winced at the presence of the needle, but he accepted the girl's treatment without complaint.


"A favor in payment for your knowledge has now been given, Bastion."


After directly speaking to the mask who was in their presence, the spirit returned to her host's side where she stood glaring in irritation. Forcing the girl into her other view, Cecilia held out several red threads before Hoshino's eyes before stuffing them into Gom's storage.


"You have much to learn girl. You need to collect whatever threads you can find, not go off attempting to comfort your crush in his insanity. Threads of blood are especially rare, considering I forbid you to attempt your power on the living."


Without another word, the spirit reopened Gom's mouth where she climbed back into its existence and returned to her home in Limbo from whence she came. Before she left, Shun whispered a small offering of thanks before continuing to sit in silence, slightly dumbstruck by the interaction which had just occurred.


Are the other zodiacs all that blunt?





Shun's thoughts were amused as he questioned Cecilia's personality to Bastion while slightly chuckling at his understanding of the event. A small smile had returned to his face as the sorrow from before seemed to have mostly passed.

 

[Crystalline]

<p><a href="<fileStore.core_Attachment>/monthly_2014_05/57a8bf56711a1_HoshinoShiromiyaIcon(2).png.05a4b76f6b3db612cde31c505778de4a.png" class="ipsAttachLink ipsAttachLink_image"><img data-fileid="19402" src="<fileStore.core_Attachment>/monthly_2014_05/57a8bf56711a1_HoshinoShiromiyaIcon(2).png.05a4b76f6b3db612cde31c505778de4a.png" class="ipsImage ipsImage_thumbnailed" alt=""></a></p>


.::Hoshino Shiromiya::.


~Streets~


~With Shun~




​

Hoshino pursed her lips together as she listened to Shun speak, for his words were broken. His eyes were even filled with shimmering tears, and he was on the ground helplessly. Hoshino held back her urge to pat his shoulder or something, and she could tell that people around them were starting to stare. She just shot them all glares - glares she had no idea she was capable of putting out - and sent them all back on their way. With slight shock at her defensive actions, she shook her head and looked back at Shun, her eyes back to their normally gentle and sincere nature. "I-I didn't mean to snap at Ashlei. I j-just...some...I just couldn't help it. I know she did what was best for her own life, and I can hardly hold that against her. It's my parents at fault, but I still..." He stammered, which made Hoshino want to comfort him even more. "I know," she stated, showing him a small, understanding smile. "I know, Shun. I'm sure she'll understand, too," she stated, and then she allowed the silence to take over for a brief moment. She pursed her lips together.


"You got a zo--" He began to say, which made Hoshino tilt her head. What was he sa-- she began to think, but then was completely taken aback by the presence of Cecilia. She just hopped right on out of Gom, and Hoshino nearly dropped the teddy bear in utter shock. "C-Ce-Cecil--" Hoshino stammered, taken aback completely by her sudden appearance. "How did you--" she began, but immediately shut her mouth. Relevant questions only - don't even bother with that one. Hoshino thought, shrugging as she let out a sigh. Though, what surprised her even more was the fact that she actually talked to Shun. "You can see her?" She questioned out loud, though she meant to keep her wondering in her thoughts. She looked questioningly between the two, and then it clicked - other hosts could see other zodiacs. With a nod, Hoshino's expression showed realization. I'm still very new to this.. I wonder if Shun is, too? Or does he know what we're supposed to do? She wondered, casting him glances as Cecilia stitched him up.


It was soon after that Cecilia forced the sight upon Hoshino, causing her to blink rapidly for a few seconds. "W-Wha--" she began to say as she rubbed her aching eyes. Her vision was a little blurry for a moment, but it cleared up soon enough for her to see the threads Cecilia held before her face. After she looked and recognized them, Cecilia stuffed them into Gom's mouth and into his storage. "You have much to learn girl. You need to collect whatever threads you can find, not go off attempting to comfort your crush in his insanity. Threads of blood are especially rare, considering I forbid you to attempt your power on the living." She spoke, which made Hoshino pout slightly. "H-He's not my crush," she protested at first, but then bit her tongue. "But.. Okay," she spoke, not willing to continue to argue with Cecilia. Hoshino knew what she was capable of - hell, she was still a little shaken up about getting her eyes stitched up in that hellish nightmare the night before. After that, Cecilia disappeared back into Gom.


At least Shun seemed happier after the visit. Hoshino looked over at him with her twinkling crimson eyes, glad to see him laughing again. "I'm glad you're feeling better," she spoke in a tone as sweet as sugar. She smiled up at him warmly, and then hugged Gom close to her Torso. "That was Cecilia," she began to speak. "Is that what you were going to say, earlier?" Hoshino questioned, referring to the 'zo' he didn't finish. "Zodiac?" She spoke, curious about everything he knew about them. She debated on whether or not to switch back to her turquoise gaze, but she figured she'd keep the sight on to avoid the aches and blurs. "I can pass these off as contacts, right? It hurts a little to switch between sights," Hoshino stated, pointing at her eyes with her free hand. She let out a slightly nervous giggle, her blood red gaze shimmering as she looked over at Shun. She could see all his threads, and the threads of all the things around them. It was all so amazing, and she found herself wanting to mess with them all.


Again, unfamiliar urges came to her as she hugged Gom once more, and she began rocking back and forth like a little girl would as she awaited Shun's response.