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361

Cross Effects 1.0 Archive / Re: Cross Effects - Sign Up, Discussion Page

« on: August 07, 2013, 12:48:38 PM »

Well I was writing my piece when OPOI posted. The note piece might be more important than I originally thought.

[Spoiler]

362

Cross Effects 1.0 Archive / Re: Cross Effects- The RP

« on: August 07, 2013, 12:44:56 PM »

I can set a broken arm, I just won't be none too gentle about it.

"Huh..."

The familiar rubbed his temple once again. Maybe he should have let the blond woman do it, after all. Her expression had been strange when he distanced himself from her at first. Maybe he should apologize? A gift could do bu-...

However Lancer brought him back to reality.

Sure you want me to do it? It'll hurt like a bitch.

"What's a bi-...Uuuuarrrrrrgh!!!!" The yell escaped his lips with all the might he could muster. Ruu jumped repetitively in a comical manner when the Servant did what he was supposed to do. Definitely, he should have trusted the Landlady. Promising himself to never choose Lancer over her again, he closed his jaw on the Ex-Servant's own arm as repayment.

---

Isa walked away from the group who had already started to argue again. Her steps were slow and measured as if asking others to not notice her depart. It felt a little awkward to go like that after what had happened. She wanted to stay with them because they were people of all horizons. She had much to learn from them, she knew it. But as far as her will to go with them was strong, Vanessa took precedence here. It had always been like that and will always be.

With a chant only up to a whisper, she started converting od in prana, effictively concealing herself in a shadow of light. With seconds passing, she soon would disappear from eyesight, magical or not. Thoughts would be unable to reach her too. She closed her eyes, building another spell. Isabella projected a mental image of the boundaries surrounding the quarter and saw herself already moving across the maze of buildings. Focusing her mind on the trail of subtle prana emitted by different gematria icons she left on her way here, she broke them from where she stood, making them shining with intense darkness. Only few magus in Clock Tower could sense these as they were an archaic form of magecraft only the twins bothered to study in their whole department.

For Isabella's eyes, the world had became a blurry mix of shades and radiance. Sounds were distorted and she could barely understand what was being said by the group few meters away from her. The twin ignored the discussion, which she wouldn't understand anyway, and searched for an hint which could indicate Vanessa's exact position. Usually those were difficult to miss given how the older sibling liked to show off. And indeed it didn't take much time to spot her. The shining beam piercing the sky wasn't where Isabella had parted ways with Vanessa but it wasn't that far from their previous location. However, Isabella would have to run quite a bit before reaching this new location.

She grumbled, feeling her prana being drained at an alarming rate. The teenager fell on her knee as the bond with her sister sank in her mind. She knew it was only an illusion for herself, the bond the twins had, sharing Vanessa's own condition with Isabella. But as much as she knew it was not her who was tiring so fast, she still felt the effect as if things were happening to her. It was their curse and their blessing. Being able to share basically everything with someone that close had to be paid in some way. Unfortunately the sisters didn't have a the ability to exchange thoughts between each other. However, it would apply for basically everything else. Pain, illness, exhaustion, emotions too. And it would increase the closer they would be to each other, indicating Vanessa's prana level was in red. She had to be fast.

With a glance over her shoulder, the adolescent girl bit on her tongue.

Thank you for your help. You might know my master, she's Rin's sister, Sakura.
If not I'm sure she'd be more than happy to meet such a kind girl like you.
She might be quite protective of you, though, she's like that with children.[/center

Rider.

And I'd be more than happy to be your sister.

Hakuno-san.

No problem.
What I feel about that kid and his opinions are less important than my Master and Rin's safety, and the safety of everyone else here, including you.

Archer.

Yeah, definitely.
I hate imposing on Forest like this, but I'll be using that apartment complex as my base of operations.
When you're ready, come visit me.
We're going to have quite a bit to discuss, believe me.

Tohsaka-san.

I can't take this, it's too important to you. 
Thank you though. 
I've been fine this long, I'll continue to muddle through.
Besides, I have my own guardian on my side.

Forest.

That naivety will put you in danger someday.
But...when it does, I'll try to be there to help.
People like you...are what I fight for.

Shirou.

She'll miss them. Each of these people had something special. Isabella wished to know them more and learn from their experiences. But she didn't have the choice.
And worse than that, things didn't seem to go so well.

Most of you are older than me, guys. Show some restraint.

Isabella shook her head. She had played her part and tried her best. All she had to do now would be to go help her sister. Yet, she didn't move. There was still something she could do. Looking at her hand she frowned for an instant. The silvery piece Forest refused. She had made a mistake in proposing it to the Vampire but she didn't regret her attempt, even after the blond brushed it aside. However, there was a person who may need it even more than her. Someone who would feel probably alone even, in presence of others. Especially in presence of others.

Her gaze fell on the guy and she knew what to do. She wrote another word and without a sound slipped both pendant and piece of paper in his trench-coat pocket, with the  purpose of him finding it at a moment when he would be alone. With a satisfied smile for herself, she then took off.

----

What's written on the note.

Spoiler for Hiden:

You're the only one who can forgive yourself. Whether you decide to do it or not, just know that I do forgive you. It might not be much considering I don't know of your past, but there's a reason to that. From what I saw, you have potential to do good things. You just happen to have lost your path, but that's okay!! People make mistakes all the time. Sometimes it's harmless. Sometimes it can break people apart. Things are rarely simple and being human is suffering. All you can do is, try your best and strengthen yourself for the next time.

Archer is proof enough that you're not a bad person at heart. All you need, is to orient your life in a more positive way. You can make amend for the suffering you spread in the past by admitting your mistakes. Honor the departed by showing you have learned something from them.

Can't do anything about the guilt though, one could argue it's your own burden to carry. That's what the pendant is for. For the times when you feel lonely or unable to overcome an hurdle, just remember that I'm rooting for you, no matter what others think.

Have great expectations of you, Emiya Shirou.
See you soon, Isa.

363

Cross Effects 1.0 Archive / Re: Cross Effects - Sign Up, Discussion Page

« on: August 06, 2013, 08:28:27 AM »

Mille and Ruby promise fun stuff.

Things I'm waiting for now:
Rin and the new magical girl confrontation.
Sakura meeting MoS Shirou will definitively be an interesting event.
Oh and when does Dark Archer appear?

364

Cross Effects 1.0 Archive / Re: Cross Effects - Sign Up, Discussion Page

« on: August 01, 2013, 10:39:09 AM »

Isa gives diabete.

Note: Isa has not left the place yet.(in case you want some reactions to your reactions)

365

Cross Effects 1.0 Archive / Re: Cross Effects- The RP

« on: August 01, 2013, 10:38:02 AM »

"Aye, but it could heal wrong if it's not set properly. As to why, I don't know.  Fore's a bit daft when it comes to stuff like this.  She invited a hound like me to live with her; so I can't understand how her mind works."

The last part wasn't reassuring in the slightest but the familiar kept it to him.

Voices, all around him. Strong emotions. Echoes reverberating though the alley. Powerful people were all gathered here and exchanging words, but Ruu wasn't able to catch up on the conversation. He was led by Lancer to a woman with blond hairs and pale skin. The familiar extended his mind forward to read her. But he was unable to reach her. This made him a bit worried. His ability didn't work on mysteries and the like but she looked human. She didn't give the strong aura Eagle had either. Not even similar to Wolfy. Plus, what Lancer said earlier about her didn't help. Also, she had a particular scent. Nothing outrageous enough for him to consider her a threat on the spot but she was... different.

"This is Ruu.  I was daft and caused him to break his own arm.  Can you set it?"

The familiar stepped back at these words. Not so eager to let her touch his broken limb. It was itchy and Ruu didn't like being touched when he was itchy. The elegant figure crouched to face him, violet-blue pearls looking at him.

"I'm Forest, may I see your arm?"

The familiar shook his head and hid behind Lancer in a very childish behavior when faced with the unknown. Worried silver eyes peered as he nervously pressed his hand againt Lancer's. Anxious and not willing to obey, he pronounced one word.

"Scary."

There were no hostilities behind his reaction, only the simplest of suspicion. However, he recalled the warm expression Lancer had when he mentioned his Landlady. Even when they arrived, he seemed pleased to see her again. Maybe, she wasn't all that bad. Ruu gulped and threw a stressed glance at Lancer as if pleading to not leave him alone. Then, with reluctance, he approached Forest and raised a trembling broken limb.

Isabella looked at the scene but had to step aside for now. She smiled to herself while wiping her tears. Things came very close to the critical point. Fortunately, Archer had been reasoned by Hakuno-san and Tohsaka-san. Rider seemed to have calmed down enough as well. Plus, she would get her prana. With that man's and his little companion arrival, Forest's mood improved as well. Satoshi and Shirou probably had things to discuss. Well, it seemed to be the case for everyone, really.

Which means I'm not needed anymore.

She only had jumped in the argument randomly, after all. Vanessa would probably create trouble if left alone for too long. As much as she wanted to go visit Forest's "stronghold", she couldn't. Not yet. She sensed her sister's tension and felt uneasy. But she kept it hidden behind a mask.

"Well, with things settling down, I really should go." She declared cheerfully. The girl leaned towards Rider and gave her a surprise hug. "Take care of you and the little guy, okay?" Her voice full of warmth. "I would like to meet your Master someday." She smiled to the Servant as they separated. Hakuno-san was next. Isabella literally jumped in her arms. "Keep your spirit up. And never ever change." She fidgeted in Hakuno's arms."Aww, I wish your were my other sister." With a more restricted enthusiasm she looked at Rin. "I wish we could discuss things thoroughly, about this place especially, but It will have to wait, Tohsaka-san." Then, the towering Archer. Her voice dropped a little when she faced him. "Thanks for not attacking. Must have been difficult. I'm glad you acknowledge value in people opinions." Yes, this man was very different from Shirou. Regardless of them being the same person at some point. "Keep your Master safe but don't look at her as only someone to protect. You're partners, right?" She threw him a wink before walking away.

"Thanks for the invitation Forest, but I left my sister behind and she needs someone to keep her in check before a disaster happens." The twin produced a pen and sheet of paper from her pocket and scribbled on it. "Here's my number. Feel free to share it and don't hesitate to call me if something happens." She took a second before looking at the vampire. "I'm a magus so I'll help you as much as I can." With that said, she took the pendant she had hanging above her top and presented it to the Vampire. "Here." For her, the flower shaped piece of metal meant more than life and she was genuinely reluctant to part ways it. But she had promised to hand it down to someone who would really need it. "It's a Snowdrop, a friend of mine once told me its symbolism was hope and consolation. It helped me when I felt down. Some people are tough, but we all have time when we need a little help. I wish you to have this for now." The gift was a mean to convey her wish for support and hope for Forest. The adolescent girl eyed Lancer. "Be nice with her, 'kay?." She petted the head of the familiar. "You too." To which Ruu answered with a curious tilt. After that, she had only two persons left to discuss with.

She closed the distance with Satoshi. With a whisper only loud enough for him to hear. "You are compassionate and undertanding." She glanced only for an instant in Shirou's direction. "He may be difficult to deal with but he will need you." With a simple nod she approached the Second Magus Killer. Their eyes met but the teenager didn't waver. She frowned and slapped his face strong enough for people across the street to turn in their direction. For a moment, her eyes were only filled with bitterness, then her expression broke in something full of compassion. "That's your punishment for your "mistake" earlier." She said calmly. "Did you feel my anger behind it? Are you getting angry yourself?" The girl took his hand in hers and smiled gently. "That's what humans feel, emotions aren't something thrown away so easily. You may have lost a lot to become like you are now. It may hurt a lot but you shouldn't throw away what makes you one of us." She raised his hand in order for him to touch her face. "See, that's what human warmth feels like. Do you remember? What you lost as a human being can be regained. You're not a machine. You may not redeem yourself but you can start by forgiving yourself. " She paused a second before surrounding him with her arms. "Each person is precious, there may have difficult choices to make but, you should think with your heart before logic." Isabella teared up for him. "The people you lost would want you to be happy as well, don't you think?" She stepped back from the magus and grinned. "You should just apologize to Hakuno-san."

Finally, Isabella raised a hand casually. "Don't be too harsh on him, guys." She paused an instant. "Even if things were a little too tense, I'm happy to have met you all. Hopefully, we will spend time in a more productive way on our next encounter. Be safe."

366

Cross Effects 1.0 Archive / Re: Cross Effects- The RP

« on: August 01, 2013, 05:01:21 AM »

Vanessa looked with interest at the obvious law enforcement unit which surrounded efficiently the man, who, an instant earlier, was still engulfed in a coat of flames. The men were heavily armed and worn protections. They even had a freaking tank with them.

"Sure seems to take the matter seriously. Well, if he's responsible for the earlier explosion, I don't blame them."

Distracted, she didn't notice the terrorist getting up and drawing a blade. 

"SOLAR STRIKER!!"

"...What?" Surprised, she looked at the man supposed to be taken into custody. She saw him jump and then, all the rest happened in slow-motion, the guy reached the ground once again, his weapon biting the asphalt. Next moment, a strong arm enclosed around her waist and she was forced to evade the area through the only safe place at the moment, the air. "Hey, what are y-..." But she was cut by the powerful explosion which was triggered by the previous attack on the enforcers. Covering her face from the blast of wind which followed the detonation.

"Ah, thanks." She said, realizing she could have been killed. "Saving my life and all, I owe you o-..."

But she was once more interrupted by a thunderbolt which missed them by a thread as his savior dodged with a flap of his only dark wing. Vanessa sensed something above them and pointed a finger to the clouds.

"Be careful, something's coming!!"

However, the lightning strikes summoned missed them, spreading all around the area.

Why does he throw a random spells around? He is trying to deceive us. She shook her head, getting angry.

"We can't let him run amok. If it keeps up, he will end up killing someone."

She didn't know if that unknown man heard her. After all, he had completely ignored her earlier. She weaved her left hand before his face, gathering his attention.

"As thankful as I may be, could you let me go? I can't do anything if I'm carried around like a potato bag."

A minute or so passed, then he finally landed, much to the teenager relief.

 

"What's your name?"

There, you can talk after all.

"Name's Vanessa. What's yours?"

She looked around for explosive man and when she found him, she smiled.

"I'll help you capture this guy." She closed her eyes, focusing her mind on the task.

A gust surrounded her as she triggered her magic circuit switch, hair's flowing she started to chant.

"Two faced being of the paradox hear my plead. From shades raises the refined light born from deep within. From radiances crawls the unholy thread of corruption."

Body heat increased and a painful yet familiar sensation numbed her limbs for an instant.

"One verse for the sacred. One verse for the cursed. Five oaths under the dark sky. Come forth, five pillars of light, πεντάγραμμον φωτεινός!!"

With a sudden flash, a boundary field expanded under Gatou, for an instant pulsating.

"Be ready to strike when I create the opening."

The teenager made a gesture, as if manipulating a whip of some sort. Tremors started as the spell reached its final step. Five pillars of light raised to the sky before encircling the target. Magical energy shook the ground stronger as the columns of prana converged at the center of the formation and exploded with intensity in a demonstration of raw power. The after effect was a vertical beam of light piercing the clouds above their head. Vanessa pointed towards the middle of the artificial light.

"What are you waiting for, I can't maintain him inside forever!!

Indeed, such grand scale spells weren't just for showing off. The prana cost was heavy and worse than that, throwing around a tower beacon in the middle of the place would surely gather all kind of attention. Fortunately, people would not have to worry about material destruction. The spell was just a strong barrier which prevented people to go in or out without her permission. It was clearly impressive but at the price of being usable only when she was at her top.

Still, it would have been way easier if Isa were around.

Not that she thought about it, where did her twin sister go?

367

Cross Effects 1.0 Archive / Re: Cross Effects - Sign Up, Discussion Page

« on: July 31, 2013, 04:44:48 AM »

Xam, I'd like you to update(even if it's short).

368

Cross Effects 1.0 Archive / Re: Cross Effects- The RP

« on: July 30, 2013, 11:46:36 AM »

"Uuoruuocon eh?  Well that's a bloody mouthful.  Let's just call you Ruu for short then.  People call me Lancer."

The small individual answered to that with a neutral look. "Wolfy Lancer." He then nodded."Uuoruuoc-... Ruu will remember it." He corrected himself just in time

"Nah, Fore's not my Master.  As fond as I am of her, I wouldn't want her my Master even if I was a Servant.  She gives me a place to stay, a roof over my head and all the spirits a man could ask for.  So, you could say she's more of my Lady, one I dedicate my spear to." 

"Even though she destroys every fucking pack of smokes I get, Brigid's Titties."

"..."

Ruu noticed the positive change that bloomed on Lancer's face, frowning slightly for himself. He kept silent, envying the man without realizing it.
For a being like him, concepts as simple as friendship, love or any kind of attachment were superfluous. He could experience a variety of feelings but affections and the likes were beyond his understanding. He protected nature and creatures that were unable to defend themselves but it was only applying his purpose, by doing so, as much as he felt the urge to do so, it was only emulation. No real wish existed in him because he was far from being human. Only a tool denied of free will.
Still there was something fascinating which he could only share through his natural empathy ability. The simple warm he felt was something precious, something he wanted to feel again, something he longed for. And this desire translated as a painful memory for him, right now.

The pain would be tenfold that would he extend his sense towards Lancer, that's why he didn't try reading him. Instead, he rubbed his temple in a manner that he hoped would chase away the unfamiliar sensation but nothing happened.

"Come on, let's go meet her.  She can help with your arm."

Ruu noticed the arm extended in his direction and blinked. He accepted the hand and got up, and they started moving. His eyes didn't meet the ex-Servant as he wondered why Lancer and the Landlady would consider helping him.

"Why would Landlady want to fix Ruu's arm? It doesn't belong to her." His limited knowledge of social interaction showed up like a beacon, impossible to miss. Even with this confusion in mind, the familiar didn't let go of Lancer's grip. He did accept to follow the man knowing that he could heal by himself. "It can heal by itself." He added clumsily.

----

"I can't only imagine it, I've lived in such a world. I've seen the very same people revered as heroes for murdering people on the whims of the gods. I've seen 'hero' after 'hero' come seeking out me and my sisters even as we lived in seclusion on our island, just to claim the glory and spoils of defeating us. I killed every single one to protect my sisters, until I eventually turned into a real monster"

There had been anger and bitterness in the tone in such a genuine display that it triggered Isabella's guilt.

"I'm sorry, I said something rather insensitive. Didn't mean to remember you of something bad." She said on an apologetic tone.

Her eyes focused on Rider for a bit.

"I am not a Caster, no, but in my time knowledge of magic was normal even for people who didn't specialise in it. I am no expert, but I can at least teach her the basics."

Made sense. Some heroic spirits could be very old, those of the legendary Age of Gods era would have especially extended knowledge of not only magecraft but magic as well. She expected as much.

"As for my master, well at this precise moment she's either making love to her husband...

That, she didn't expect however. Isabella became crimson at the mention of such an act. Not only was she no good at romance stuff, but it was even worse when it was dropped in the middle of a conversation. Turning her gaze on the ground without knowing how to react to that, she listen to what the Servant still had to say.

"...frantically searching for a way to rescue her son or telling off her sister for screwing up and sending us here in the first place. It depends if they've got word to her yet.

She'll probably find a way to this world eventually, her sister does possess the ability to traverse dimensions, and nothing will stand in the way of her protecting her children.

Yes, Rider, as Shirou's son called her, mentioned a child earlier. Apparently, Emiya Shirou was the father, well another Shirou was, and the Master was the mother. What happened to Rider and the kid was kinda similar to what happened to her and Vanessa. Although in their case, it was mostly thanks to her sister's limitless curiosity.

"But, until she does, I'm without a prana source, and I can't trust anyone else to release me from any contract I might make when she does arrive. And, this place is too dangerous to leave her little boy unprotected. She would never recover if any harm came to him. So, I need prana."

Isabella looked at the Servant with a brand new appreciation. She didn't want to steal prana from people, but she had no choice but to resort to it. All came down from the simplest of need. Prana would be an issue for most Servant cut from their link formed through the pact of summoning with their Master. Like Rider said, without a prana supply she would have to repeat this process. Which explained why she was reluctant to fight against the sword freak. She couldn't afford to spent what she had left, without risking to disappear and thus condemning the child to end up alone.

Far from what she initially judged her. The magus bowed slightly.

"I misjudged you, for that, I ask your pardon."

She wanted to add something but Hakuno chose that moment to speak up.

"Thank you very much, both of you. And thank you for healing me, I appreciate it."

The girl seemed to cheer up, something pleasing Isabella.

"That's not much." Answered the fourteen year-old with an impish grin.

"Isa's a pretty name. It's nice to meet you too! I'm Kishinami Hakuno. Most people just call me Hakuno, but if you have a nickname for me, that's fine too."

Isabella smiled strangely at these words.

"Well, thanks. However I'm not sure how I should call you. You're older than me and obviously japanese. So, erm... I'll use Hakuno-san if you don't mind." The black-haired girl added with a grimace. "Though I do not recommend asking for a nickname to my sis."

It would indeed be a bad idea. Her older sister's were so lame after all.

I'm fine, thanks. I do need a prana supply, though, if you're still offering."

Isabella nervously bit on her lip when she heard what Rider said to Forest.

Such a measure wouldn't help in the long term. She thought, peering at the Servant.

With the end of the spell cast on Hakuno, the twin walked.

Last time they stopped before it escalated thanks to Forest intervention. That's why Isabella decided to stand by her side, clearly stating where she stood in that argument. From up close, the italian girl could see the whole extent of the gorgeous woman. Although pale in complexion, she looked genuinely hot. Even as a girl, Isabella had no shame admitting she was impressed, even after interacting with Rider which was also a jewel in her own category. But in spite of her good looks, there was no mistake she was a vampire, and a pretty powerful one, at that.

The magus studied her discreetly. Not a lot people could get that close to a Dead Apostle in her world. Although a vampire, it seemed like the woman standing here was able to keep her soul. The whole idea was strange and a bit destabilizing. How many adventures did she live? What amazing things did she saw? How could be the point of view of an immortal?

"..."

She had tons of questions for her but now was not the right time.

Two people suddenly appeared. The first one, was a tall man with a solid build, gray eyes, white hair somewhat reminiscent of Emiya Shirou. The other, she was surprised to recognize.

"Tohsaka-san!" The girl waved a hand in pattern to salute the superior magus. Even though it had been years they had met, the japanese genius left such a strong impression on the twins that there would be no way they would forget her. "It's been a while." Smiling like a little girl, she could not help fidgeting where she stood.

That's pretty much when Hakuno dashed to the man, efficiently tackling him an affectionate hug. She heard Hakuno's words and Archer's declaration of loyalty and couldn't help but smile even as a bystanders.

"That's pretty cute, don't you thi-...Huh?" She stopped when he saw Forest's face.

A glimpse of sadness appeared for an instant and Isabella understood without words. Loneliness. For someone like the magus, who always had her sister to rely upon, it was difficult to apprehend how alone people could be, especially after becoming... different. Did she have to deal with discrimination all the time? Did she had to stay on the move? Did people despise her because of her nature? How many times did she have to prove her worth? Did she had to bury her lover? Did she see each of her friends wither and disappear? Did she ever found people who understood her? Did she even felt happiness at all?  As other thoughts raced through her mind, she felt deep sadness for the woman standing here and tears rolled over her cheeks in a non-stop stream.

In an attempt to show support for Forest, her fingers sealed around the woman's palm in a gentle gesture. Cold feeling transmitted to Isabella but didn't let go.
Something simple, but meaningful. Only an instant, sharing a little of her own warmth in the vain hope it would alleviate the pain. After a moment, she cut the contact while looking down.

With the back of her hand, she wiped her face in order to gather some dignity again. She wasn't that emotive usually, but the overall tension had gotten the best of her
and when she let the guard down, she cried silently for someone she barely knew yet understood enough that Forest felt pain without, maybe, a way to express it.

Of course when Archer walked to Forest, the twin slightly stepping back from the Servant's presence. Then, the guy looked around and let the question he had kept for him until now.

"Anyone care to tell me what exactly happened here? While I doubt this alleyway was particularly charming to look at to begin with, it looks like an absolute mess now."

"I think we shou-...."

She was, however, cut by the voice of the Shirou who had been so quiet, Isabella almost forgot about him.

"Well...it's a bit hard to explain..."

He seemed to search his words.

"Let's just say your Master was attacked by Rider, then stopped by the vampire over there. I...misinterpreted the situation, and attempted to save her in the most painless and least damaging way from what I perceived to be a bloodthirsty vampire and a soul-eating Servant. Let's just say it snowballed from there..."

Isabella sent an alarmed look at Archer, fearing a bold reaction.

"Wait a second it wa-..."

But it seemed she wouldn't have time to speak this time again, Rider jumping immediately in.

"What do you mean you attempted to save her? You tried to put a bullet in her head. If you were so determined to save her as you claim, why didn't you attack what you percieved as the actual threats, rather than the innocent victim? That's what a real hero would do, what the Shirou I know would have done.

But, no, not you. You didn't even attempt to save the girl, your very first act was to try to put a bullet in her head. Even if we had been what you thought we were she was not going to die immediately. But, you knew that if we did fight there could be massive destruction, and you tried to prevent it in the most efficient way you know, which was to attempt to take out the source of conflict. The fact that that source was a human being didn't seem to factor into your thoughts one bit. She was just a number to you, nothing more.

And, to top it off, you have the gall to twist the truth to try to turn her servant on the very person who saved her. The only person here who ever had any designs on her life is you. All I wanted was to take a bit of her prana, I had no intention of killing the poor girl."

Isabella rubbed her temples, at that reaction. While Rider said the truth, she knew it would only serve to aggravate the situation. She walked to Archer, trying to get his attention.

"Please, listen to m-..."

This time, it was Forest who spoke.

Yeah, the reasonable thing to do would have been to attack the fucking monsters, not the victim!  Buuuutttt noooo, destroy the food source to keep the monsters from fighting.  Good plan, lad, excellent sodding plan."

Fair points were given, in the mean time Rider turned to Shirou's son.

"Whilst you're obviously from a world very different to my own and I can't work out who your mother could possibly be, you're still Shirou's son, and you seem to have your head screwed on right unlike that idiot over there. If you need help in 'punching the stupid' out of him, I'll be more than happy to join you."

"Please everyone, just wai-..."

Forest wasn't finished.

"Look, I understand your path hasn't been an easy one, possibly with Joss Whedon levels of tragedy and angst, which I know the reference just went right over everyone's heads here, but! Innocent blood isn't something that should be so easily shed.  If you're going to be here in my city, then you're going to play by a better set of rules than that grimdark vigilante bull shit."

"..."

Who's Joss Whedon? Thought the teenager before shaking her head. Then it was Shirou's son to talk.

"my name proper is Satoshi Alexander Emiya Pendragon. I am the prince of knights, king of heroes, heir to the house Einzbern and the dragon. The second of my titles was earned defeating Gilgamesh and stripping him of such. Emiya Shirou is my father and my mother is Arturia Pendragon the king of knights, most know her as king Arthur, history got the male part wrong because Merlin used magic. And no, Rider usually thinks about any current book she's reading. As for my world every one is alive, I would give a full list but that would take too long for the current situation  but my grandfather and your master are very much among them as well as Rin there being the head of the mage association. As to the issue here I'm afraid your outrage is a little misplaced. While killing innocent people is wrong tactically speaking it was Shirous only choice, I say this because I'm well aware of what happens to a person drained by vampirisms cold touch, both in the case of your method Rider as your sisters attacked me and by the standard vampire means. Also please keep something in mind Forest, you are a western vampire, the eastern ones are much more horrific when you are drained by them, you can become a zombie, ghoul or even another vampire but eastern vampires have little in the way of self control due to their bodies constantly deterioration leaving them in agony. It's not a  thing I would wish on any one , Shirou did what he thought was right and given that I understand what it is to be powerless I can't blame him for picking the option with the best odds of survival and spare a victim torturous pains. Also Rider you'll have to accept that worlds like his counter balance yours and mine, cosmically speaking you cannot blame him for the hand of fate. More importantly though  is the fact that he sugar coated it which says that he thinks what he does is at it's basic level wrong. This means he isn't completely gone and I think you of all people should see the merits of a second chance" his small speech finished  he waited for those who would protest."

Well, for someone who didn't talk much until now, he sure gave his opinion.

Shirou chose this time to answer.

"Thank you...Satoshi. If nothing else, I'm glad that you're not another idealistic idiot like I used to be, and can actually try to see the bigger picture."

The smile appeared only briefly. A pause. He looked at Forest.

"Well...I better explain myself a bit better.

First off, You say shoot the monsters. If I could have, I would have taken it. But, let's be honest, do you really think a bullet to the head would stop you, who had appeared at the time to be a Dead Apostle, and Rider, a full blown Servant? Well, maybe you, I don't know what you're capable of, but definitely not a Servant. If anything, it might cause one of you to run away with the girl, or feed on her quicker so you could gain power quicker, be it prana or blood. And I wasn't going to leave Hakuno in your hands so you could make her into your Dead slave, or in Rider's hands where she would suffer a fate worse than death. So your suggestion is out. Unless you think it would have been a good idea to shoot a Noble Phantasm into an alleyway literally next to the city centre on the off chance that I manage to kill at least one of you."

He made some points, explaining himself. His attention shifted to Rider.

"And you. You have some nerve to lecture me on my choice, to be outraged at my actions. The one who should be outraged is me, you say I have no sense. That what you're the one responsible for saving Hakuno and thus bears no blame in this matter. How dare you! You were only going to take a little bit of prana? That's bullshit and you know it!"

His anger raised in a sudden burst as he closed the distance with the purple-haired girl.

The easiest and quickest choice for you would be to gain prana by eating her soul, leaving her a lifeless shell who can only do her best to breathe. Tohsaka managed to save my friend Ayako from this fate, but even now she's suffering from the side effects. She can't sleep at night, and even if she can't remember what happened, everytime she's alone, she's overcome with petrifying fear until someone comes to her aid. Or maybe you were going to go the slow way. Maybe, a tantric ritual with a girl who seemingly had no magic at all. Maybe use your eyes to petrify her so she can't resist, then have your way with her until you were satisfied, on the off chance that you somehow gained mana from a non-magus. And afterwards, to cover up your tracks, you would have no choice but to kill her or take her away to your lair. Is that what you planned to do if the vampire here hadn't stopped you? How on earth could I possibly just let you do that? Yes, call me a murderer, but if I had absolutely no choice, I would much rather kill to save them from such a fate."

He took a second, apparently trying to cool down.

"Lastly...and the thing I find most unforgivable. You claim that you had no choice, that you're only trying to get prana to continue protecting a boy. Well then, out of all the possible secluded alleys, all the possible criminals and so-called scum you could have picked from...why did you decide to attack a schoolgirl who had just walked out of the city centre?"

"..."

Isabella waited to see if he was done. Then, she started to clap her hands in a very loud way as she placed herself between Rider and Shirou in order to avoid another argument. The teenager watched Shirou, then Rider, then Shirou again. When she started to speak up, her voice was low.

"Are we finally done?" She asked calmly. "Because in case you didn't notice, Hakuno-san is safe." She addressed at Rider a glance. "Sure we could spend time pointing fingers about what COULD HAVE HAPPENED." Her voice erupted violently in the alley. "WHAT'S YOUR PROBLEM GUYS??? LOOK AT THE VICTIM. She yelled. YEAH, SHE'S SHAKEN BUT STOP TREATING HER LIKE A CHILD, DAMMIT. SHE'S FINE NOW. SO WE CAN EITHER DECIDE WHO'S THE ONE WHO SCREWED THE MOST OR DECIDE TO MOVE ON WITH THIS TOPIC AND TRY TO FIND A SOLUTION IN ORDER TO AVOID SUCH A RESULT TO HAPPEN AGAIN WHICH IS TO PROVIDE A WAY TO SUPPLY RIDER WITH PRANA."

Teary eyes fell on each of the people present.

"What will it be?" She asked still trembling from her outburst.

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Cross Effects 1.0 Archive / Re: Cross Effects - Sign Up, Discussion Page

« on: July 30, 2013, 11:04:30 AM »

You can post now.

370

Cross Effects 1.0 Archive / Re: Cross Effects- The RP

« on: July 29, 2013, 06:42:10 AM »

A modest pub in one of the most infamous streets in town, itself lost in the depths of a district long discarded by law enforcers. The place was filled with the worst kind of scums you could find, murderers, rapists, slavers, terrorists... It reeked of alcohol, tobacco, sweat and remnants of blood. A paradise for mercenaries as the owner also was the middleman dealing with the bigger contracts around.

It's in this shady place, under a buzzing bulb barely giving any light, seemingly about to die out, that the two men were exchanging words. Both were sitting at the table, each savoring his own drink with more of less moderation.

Larger and taller than his interlocutor, Touzaki Shuya gave an appreciative grin when tasting the mead. He had removed his vest and everyone could see in details the solid build barely kept in check by his sleeveless t-shirt. But most people were uneasy since his stump was clearly exposed to anyone present. A self-inflicted wound which gave birth through a long and refined process to the large and solid katana sheathed by his side. The weapon was fitting its wielder, truly an extension of himself, in more than one way.

"Not bad". He said, filling his own glass with the brown liquor. "That's at least one thing this place can offer."

The man facing him, emitted an amused sound. Not particularly handsome, especially in comparison to the wild charm the half-demon exuded,  his face hidden behind a pair of sunglasses and a genuine smile. The man was dressed up for what looked like an important meeting, his gray tuxedo attracting the eyes more than Shuya's missing limb. The man was playing with the liquid poured in his glass as if trying to perceive its secrets.

"You seem bitter, hybrid." His tone was measured, having a drop of joy, yet not to the point to be insulting. "Did something happen to darken your mood?" The mockery was obvious in the last one but the mercenary didn't pick on that.

Shuya gulped down and let slip a grimace as he remembered what happened earlier.

"Just something I'll take care of later." He answered darkly. "More importantly, what do you want of me, Valken?"

The other man became serious all of the suddenly, a strange contrast with his previous behavior. Getting up, he walked up to the battered jukebox sitting not too far from the table, inserted money and set a bunch of songs to play. As he sit back, his smile returned.

"Yeah let's talk business now." He provided an envelop which Shuya grabbed at once. "I would like you to find this one and deliver it to the place mentioned here, in two days from now on."

Shuya looked at both the photo and the sheet of paper detailing an address. After a second, his eyes darted at Valken in a suspicious pattern.

"You cunning fox, observing me all that time..." He grinned like a devil. "What do you plan to do?" His voice low, telling to not joke about it.

Valken's answer came on a neutral tone.

"Can't tell something about that, only the middleman, as you know."

The mixed blood let his gaze wander over his drinking companion's face for a bit.

"Won't be easy. How much do I get out of it?" He asked with greed.

Valken shrugged apparently amused.

"How much do you want?"

"Don't care about money."

"What do you want, then?"

"Gimme a worthy opponent."

Valken emptied slowly his glass before throwing Shuya a glance as he stood up, preparing to leave.

"In that case, you won't have to search far. Partner's pretty strong."

The half-demon stood up quickly and looked at the man with a threatening aura.

"If you lie, I'll find you, you know it."

Even werewolves would have been scared by the murderous intent but Valken let it slide on him like water.

"I'm not lying."

Shuya let out a curt laugh.

"Then you got a deal."

371

Cross Effects 1.0 Archive / Re: Cross Effects- The RP

« on: July 27, 2013, 08:01:09 AM »

"N-no no, Kitty knows that it was a misunderstanding, you don't need to break any more limbs!"

 "Kitty wants you to get that arm fixed as soon as you can, alright?"

Ruu nodded.

"Understood."

"Just make sure to ask what's going on before you do this sort of thing in the future. And try to get that arm fixed properly."

The familiar didn't understand why they were making such expressions.

"It will heal if Ruu waits. It always does."

The familiar just sit up where he stood. Looking at the sky as if he had forgotten about his surroundings. However, when  Rin spoke again he answered without looking at her.

"You can go now. Just please get that arm fixed, and listen to Mister Asshole's advice!"

"Will do after it heals."

Of course, it would take days for that but time wasn't an issue for the familiar.

"Be careful, Kitty." He added, almost absentmindedly.

His focus on healing required for him to fall asleep. He was about to use the self-hypnosis right when someone landed before him.

"My Landlady would be right pissed if I left you with a broken arm like that, boyo."

Ruu recognized the blue-haired man from before, which triggered a weird expression on his face, akin to a smile, but not quite.

"Ah, Wolfy!"

He tried to salute him with his broken arm before realizing he could not. Still, he was curious about something.

"What is a Landlady? Is it like Uuoruuocon Master?"

The familiar was for some reason able to relax in presence of the warrior of the spear. There was a wildness in him that put him at ease, him who was a creature born to be close to nature. The curiosity devouring him as seconds went, the familiar bit on left sleeve.

----

"Honestly, you're worth a thousand times what that idiot is. You know, you remind me of my master, in a way. You're a very strong girl, emotionally and magically. But, most importantly, you seem like a good person, with a good heart. Even if you were completely powerless, I would rather the world be full of kind and determined people like you than assholes like him."

Isabella gave a calm nod at that.

"Agreed." Seems like trusting the Servant was the right call. "Could you imagine that? A world full of morons like him? I would rather have a zombie breakout than that." She said on a cheerful tone.

"If you want, I can help train you. I helped my master learn after the war, and now she's one of the most powerful magi around."

Blue eyes stared in Rider's direction with surprise.

"Excuse-me but you don't look like a Caster." She hesitated an instant. "Did something happened to your Master?" It may have been the reason the woman had to give chase to others in order to gather some prana. She didn't want to pry too much into privacy but it sure would help if they could contact the Master. Servants were supposed to get energy from their Masters, after all. If she was in danger, maybe helping the Master would solve the problem of prana for the Servant.

"Is everyone okay?"

Isabella jumped literally when words cut her thoughts.

It was the psychic lady. Isabella didn't notice her approach. She wanted to answer when the blond man decided to take control of the situation. His outfit had obviously known better days and was a bit too large for him. He gave some sort of advice and turned to the magus killer.

"And as for you Shirou, if you did try and kill that girl Kiritsugu says I have to punch the stupid out of you and grandpa is not someone I intend to disappoint."

What?

This guy is the son of Emiya Shirou? Now that she looked carefully, there were similarities. However there was a more pressing matter.

"I don't think threatening him with a punch will help, no matter who you are." She let out loud enough for the guy to hear her.

Isabella wouldn't bet on the likeliness of Shirou stepping down with that.

372

Cross Effects 1.0 Archive / Re: Cross Effects - Sign Up, Discussion Page

« on: July 27, 2013, 05:48:13 AM »

Thanks. Also, it's "duly"

That level of pun, mate.

373

Cross Effects 1.0 Archive / Re: Cross Effects - Sign Up, Discussion Page

« on: July 27, 2013, 02:59:58 AM »

Dully noted.

However Mike, you don't need to moderate yourself. If an issue arises, just point it out. It's for the better.

374

Cross Effects 1.0 Archive / Re: Cross Effects - Sign Up, Discussion Page

« on: July 27, 2013, 01:25:55 AM »

Wait a second. You wrote yourself that she didn't want to fight him. Then you tell me later she would have attacked when he lowers his guard. Of course I'd assume she would rather avoid to fight if given the opportunity. Especially when another guy jumps in and starts to talk to you.

If you feel that I sealed away your actions and/or dialogue, then post anyway, I will edit what needs to be. It's kinda late to tell me this though, would you have done so earlier, I could have removed/edited my post(s?) before others reacted to it.

If the pace is an issue to you guys, I'll just post once per week(or less if need be).

375

Cross Effects 1.0 Archive / Re: Cross Effects - Sign Up, Discussion Page

« on: July 26, 2013, 08:34:17 AM »

Ruu uses sad puppy eyes.
It's not very effective.

More like . . . https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VLnWf1sQkjY

Make it happen.