Divine_Heart

@Acnologia “That’s exactly, right Ms. Kyubi!” He said that with a smile and a wave of his index finger. One would swear that he was weaving it as if there was a prize to present, but nothing came after but his laughter…however short it was. The somber expression returned just as quickly as it left, and he was staring at the cup of tea upon the table, his vision not able to comprehend it, but his ears could hear the ripples it made as if they were waves crashing on a beach. With each twitch of his ears, he would hear the sound of the village, alert of whatever was supposed to come of this night. Well…partially. Right now, he was glad he could have a conversation with someone. “But…all in all, the Usagi were fickle. They preferred almost anything, but battle…or at least, that was my great grandmother’s way.” His hands reached to his mouth for a moment. The violet haired rabbit whispered something lowly with his eyes closed before opening them once more. “Excuse me,” paused and dismissed the gesture, “But, as for ‘her way’, she birthed her own clan while being apart from the village system…or…marriage for that matter. My great grandmother…you see…she had a careful and cautious nature that caused her to be weary of men. She thought that being close to them would breed a pride to fight and defend instead of to flee or retreat. Those two things became the basis for our clan.” There was a silence from him as the violet haired boy reached to his hair. It was a usual display of awkwardness or discomfort from an individual. He had to brace himself, especially now, for what he had to explain since by now, Kyubi would have placed the pieces together. “You see,” he spoke painfully, “That is why my clan is mostly female…with the exception of myself. They invested mostly in procreation and survival, thus they virtually ever take mates…and even if they had…well…” Xenneth paused as he let out a sigh. Obviously, it was annoying him to continue telling the story, let alone even think about the clan history. His hands folded across his lap while his feet lifted slightly to start his nervous tapping habit. Soon, he smiled, gently, remembering that he was being rude to someone who actually gave him the time of day. A rarity in itself. “My apologies,” he excused once more, “I suppose this sounds…barbaric to you. I understand, after all, that is why these ears…signify something ominous to others.” the violet haired rabbit gestured stroking his twitching ears. @Drago Ryder “Of course, Master!” she had responded, but done so with a very warm smile towards Blitz, “No need to be nervous!” Whatever it was, these funny-eared individuals seemed to be no strangers to human emotions. It was a trait usually lost in the age of the ninja, but yet, here they were smiling as they bent over gazing at the shinobi. If he would have given the figure enough attention, ignoring the ears that were shared by the waitresses tonight for some reason, he would have noticed that they were even clad in the most strangest of attire that were shared by even Xenneth himself who was sitting talking to Kyubi. The signature tight suits and thickets of fur that coveted the lower arms and lower legs almost making it seem like a uniform of an animal. “I will serve you to the best of my abilities! Please, allow-” she paused. Gazing upward towards the table where Kyubi and Xenneth was sitting. His cuffed hands falling synonymous with her twitching ears on her head. She seemed to at that moment completely ignore Blitz, and done so with an annoyed look upon her face. It only took a moment before she turned her attention back to the shinobi, regaining her composure as she bowed. “Please, master! Be patient!~” she almost sang in her sweet tone, “I will be sure to serve you soon!” Her tone of voice as sweet as ever, but her walk filled with a pint of resentment as she walked away from the table. @rolle Insettsu’s comments were welcomed with a smile. There was nothing like a little personality in a business setting. “I understand,” she said, “I suppose, it’s just not the women who have to watch their figures.” Unlike the other rabbit that was walking away from Blitz’s table in a huff, this was one gentler in tone and gestures. Even her hand movements were compassionate to the air itself as an open hand would briefly wave carefully to Insettsu’s form and then return to her own lap. Her eyes opened for a moment to reveal their most noticeable trait that would topple almost any visual dojutsu’s prowess: they were a fair shade of blue like sapphire. “If I make a suggestion,” she continued, “How about a vegetable served in a beef broth along with your noodles? The ramen will have such a more robust taste, and not to mention that your vegetables themselves would blend so well to offer a unique flavor! I am sure I can even find the right seasoning for you.” It was more personal than just a simple service, if the ninja could tell, and if it was not, then she was probably the best maid ever hired in the simple establishment. The female leaned over towards Insettsu, her hand gesturing towards the menu and stapled it down as if forbidding him to look at it. “Do not worry, it is not on the menu, but…I would be happy to prepare it for you!” As she said this, the form of the agitated figure walked from Blitz’s table heading to the back of the restaurant. Her eyes rolling as her voice almost carried with the breeze she left behind as she walked in an angry huff. “Does, ANYONE in this place know how to work?!” her frustration seemed to add to the charm as some of the nearby males would whistle seeing her pass by them. Even a glare of her icy stare did not quell the ravenous men that seemed to not care if she upset at the trivial behavior of her brethren. Regardless, it did not stop the rabbit before Insettsu shamefully lowering her head as she stood up straight, correcting her posture, and uttering in embarrassment. “U-umm…my apologies…that you had to experience that.”

@Acnologia @rolle @Drago Ryder A story it was! Maybe that was enough to take his mind off of things. The rabbit sat down, carefully, tugging at the suit so it did not restrain him in all the wrong places. One would say it was nothing more than a training suit with a more elaborate look. Gazing upon the young woman made him nervous, even if he seen nothing but darkness. It was just the feeling that he may have been staring at a young woman or perhaps it was a regular reflex of a male. So, he had shifted his body in the seat, made sure his feet were flat to sense vibrations, and readied himself for a story. “Ms. Kyubi, Earlier you said that you liked my rabbit ‘theme’ when we met. Please, keep that in mind, I hope not to deter you from such an adoration after you hear my story,” he began with a smile, “I guess you can say, by example, that it is more of a ritual than a theme. At least, I think so. The waitresses here, even now, are of my clan. We have a unique ability that is has developed with time. Not like those that are from Noble Families.” His eyes were closed completely as he spoke; something better than shades for someone like him. Even as the rabbit had begun to speak, he could make out in the distance the rabbits that were approaching the tables. Two in particular, two rabbits stopped at Blitz and Insettsu’s table, and strangely enough, they looked almost completely identical except a bundle of feathery hair fallen upon their opposing shoulders. Their age looked to be in their mid-twenties, well over the age of the rabbit that sat before Kyubi. The both asked a similar question: “How can we serve you, master’s?” However, for Hikari, it was different as he sat before Kyubi, smiling happily, “Do you know of the Nobile Families, Ms. Kyubi?” the rabbit asked, “You mentioned that you were a shinobi, so it would be a given. My family, work, even now, as servants. Therefore, we have a habit, even now, of referring to others as ‘Masters’ as we serve them. It has been this way because my family, our ancestors, ran away from the civilization of the village systems before they had established fully.” Xenneth’s smile became weak as he asked, “Do you know why?”

@Acnologia The rabbit smiled kindly towards Kyubi. “I-it’s a part of the privilege,” Xenneth said pulling out the chair and carefully sitting down. He reached his other hand out, taking a green tea off the tray and sitting it before Kyubi. He reached rubbing the back of his neck. “Being a ‘rabbit’ has its perks after all. We do more than just go into markets and eat fruits and vegetables. Once again…I-I am really sorry for interrupting your day.” He was earnest, but the rest of the atmosphere did not have the matching warmth. Even as the night went on with the jolly men who had their fill of ale and food, but seemed to dull to notice the faces of the rabbits. Their lips moved, their ears twitched, siphoning in whispers that were like cries out in the noisy bar. The violet haired rabbit’s ears twitched as well, but he seemed to retain his composure, eyes staring especially to Kyubi as he genuinely enjoyed their company. He smiled weakly, thinking perhaps he could take his mind off the voices as if they were something in his head. @Drago Ryder @rolle Regardless, the area was still filled with a hint of ominousness that was unmistakable. The rabbits that would be serving one customer the next would look off into the distance as if ignoring the busy night. Occasionally, one would take a glance at the local shinobi and pedestrians in the bar and would either narrow their eyes or evade the contact made with the ninja. One could have brushed them off as prude, but the mask change could not be mistaken as they would change their facial expressions quickly to keep the facade of being joyous workers who took orders and fetched trays. It was only Xenneth who seemed to be genuinely lost in the moment as he smiled to Kyubi and continued their conversation. “So, to repay you, I thought it would be best to cook you something to eat and tell you a story, if you’d allow me. I know it must be weird seeing a bunch of rabbits in your village all of the sudden.” he placed his hands upon the table, a sign that he had nothing to hide as far as anyone knew. He liked the atmosphere; the ability to be able to relax and talk to someone was something reinvigorating and was not easily experienced in these times.

@Acnologia @Drago Ryder A gentle hand reached before his very eyes, Blitz’s vision would be blinded from the words on the pages. The hand was not malicious at all, slow and easily, it had moved to touch the cover of the book. His fingers sliding as they reached for the paper in the pages and lifted afterwards to show the cloudy eyes of the violet haired young lad that was standing before him. “My apologies,” he spoke, “I was curious to know what book you were reading. As you can see…words are lost to me, but the sensation of feeling the covers and the heavy ink on the fresh smell of the pages as I move my fingers. It’s soothing!” He had an innocent smile, but, his bizarre outfit was anything but innocent. The boy stood back revealing his tight body suit that he was serving in. One could have sworn he was preparing to go train rather than visiting as the suit pressed itself against his upper body. However, this did not tell the same story as the leggings that reached to his ankles and reached to his middle toe. His feet were cushioned by his sandals. However, once again, these conflicted as the final touch of the outfit were the strange rabbit ears. Finally, there was the final feature of the white rabbit ears on top of his head, alive and twitching as they were syphoning in the sounds of the ramen shop as was his cotton-like tail was just sitting there. “Please,” he noted, “Can I please serve you? Consider it on the house as I have interrupted your reading. What is it that you would like to eat?” The Ramen Shop seemed to be alit tonight. The residents of the area were particularly excited. The sounds of the criticism of the bar was still there but they were muffled and smothered by the sound of excitement. Their voices were more enchanted and excited as the area had been filled with females that were dressed similar in the style of Xenneth. Much like him, the females were serving Ramen and what could have been thought as sensory dulling drinks that were most likely not for the youth. “Umm…do not mind my appearance, please,” he continued as he held out a pamphlet to Blitz. “Surely, you know of my clan. They are putting on their entertainment tonight as they are staying at the village for one day. We do this in all the five great nations in exchange for work, and as you can see, no one attests as we bring in a lot of the profit. Just, please, enjoy yourself and simply call one of us when you decide what to eat. Trust me, we will hear it.” There was like a hundred heartbeats, but he knew there were many more. If not inside the small shop, they certainly would be within the radius of the area. Hikari could hear them all, along with the whispers of his clan members. Each one of them making him frown a bit, sadly, but he tried to enjoy the night. After all, he was only to be entertainment, and hopefully…that was all. However, among those voices… “O-oh! I-it’s her!” Her voice was like music to his ears that night. Above all the benign compliments and vulgar speech, it was comforting to know that one of few people who looked at him strangely was about. It was comforting. His ears twitched as he could hear whispers of the orders that were coming in and to which table. He closed his cloudy eyes, and opened them as he heard the information he was looking for. Vegetable Ramen? Table twelve? “I-I will take that one!~” He wasted no time sweeping by one of the workers in the shop, reaching and taking the tray in a gentle stride as she was coming towards the general direction of the table. He assumed it was her order, smiling innocently as he did not explain himself to his kinsman. He could make out the faint scowl from the sound waves that came over the face of one of the rabbits working with him that night. “I hope you are not getting involved!” she exclaimed, “Remember why we are here tonight.” He gave no response, nor even moved a muscle. Shutting down, he waited for her to leave, and then afterwards, continued to the table as he stood before Kyubi. His hand reaching down as he presented her with the bowl of Ramen, but stood right before her wearing his bizarre serving outfit while showing that gentle smile, trademark from the earlier hours he saw her in the market. “Hello again,” he greeted Kyubi in his warm voice, “F-forgive me if my clan’s cloths are a little…revealing.” he blushed looking towards the young woman.

@Acnologia “That’s even better!” he countered, “If people have to fight, I am much happier that someone like you is out there to make sure they are okay.” The young Usagi smiled warmly as a chuckled escaped his lips. He had heard of Medical Ninja, but not actually seen one in person. The clan was mostly distant from anything entirely cultural from the world of shinobi, until recently, but he digressed. He had the honor of meeting the young woman, and it was enough for him. She was kindly, and so it seemed to also reflect to her role in battle. Hearing this, as well as her disinterest in his motif, he had weakly displayed his joy for her lack of judgment. For some reason, the expression seemed as if it was pitying her. “I see. You are too kind, Miss.” he commented, stepping lightly to her side. He twirled the bags in hand, sealing them, as he grown silent for only a moment. “I am Hikari Usagi, a member of the Usagi Clan. I am here tonight working with my family Ms. Kyubi. If you please, come to the local Ramen Shop, tonight? I fear that if you stay here talking to me…” he leaned over with his voice become even gentler than possible. “You may be mistaken for a promiscuous woman…” His face did not change, remaining as still as ever. His eyes had a look of shame to them as he spoke to her, as if he felt sorry for whatever destiny this young woman entangled herself within. Still, he was more than happy to have met her, and hoped he could at least see her again one more time. Even if he had said none of this, the feeling from just standing in this market, this village, and meeting at least one person who spoke to him – it was relaxing. “Goodbye for now, Miss!” He begun to walk away, heading out the market with a few pieces of shimmering change that he left walking out. He did not care for the change, or even for the fact that he did not get the young woman’s name. Perhaps it was for the best.

It was not the tailor’s fault. It certainly was not. Nor was it the manager, the pony at the register, nor was it the many shoppers who happened to see the final draft of the design. This certainly could not be blamed on the pony who fetched the material, nor even the Princesses for that matter as not even they may have conceived possibly this misfortune. Certainly though, someone had to answer for this, and it was the very same stallion that got up today and gazed into the mirror with a sigh. Still, he could not believe it was a mistake that was missed and unaccounted for. “No one to blame but myself…” It was true, but still, someone could recognize him by now. Divine Heart’s irregular wing span certainly was the talk lately ever since he joined the royal guard, and so were the unusual display of skills. It had only gone to show, that when it came to being the odd one, it was nothing short of like having a joker card always on top of the deck. His hard work had come to notice, and although it may not have been a trophy, or an award, it was good to see that he at least got a welcome to one of the newest trendy clubs in Canterlot. He was not a clubber, but it could not hurt, right? The very statement made it so that he was the reason he was walking up towards the entry right now. The large doors were intimidating, as well as the atmosphere. He preferred to walk about the night looking for one of the quietest of coffee houses, studying lore, but this was a new world for him. His choice of colors was of valor coated red, one of the not so best choices when going out into the mysterious night. His hooves were aligned with a black gentle leather that comforted them, and not to mention made them seem stylish. His mane was only tamed by the blue goggles that held his feather blonde hair back into place, or attempted to as a majority of it escaped off to the right side of his head. Still, his furry white face shown some distinct wonder as he looked about, even as he approached the front doors. “Umm…” a very first impression presented to the security if he was trying to be convincing, “My name is Heart. The first is Divine. I think I am on your list.” his voice strangely young, but it was the hesitation in it that caused that. He waited patiently, but not with excitement. It was not like this was his scene. But he had no one but to blame for coming here but himself, after all.

@Acnologia If ignorance was bliss, this young woman was nirvana. “No,” his head shook gently. His violet strands of feathery dyed hair remained in place, “Nothing of the sort I am afraid. Though, I heard it is a courageous way of life. Something that eludes me.” He sounded unhappy even as he smiled. His slow movements a mixture of wonder and melancholy as he reached back once more. Just beyond his reach of the fruit bin was an assortment of vegetables. His right digit tapped the side of the barrel. It only took a single wave of sound for him to identify the difference between a cucumber and a carrot, and so he reached over grabbing the orange veggie…from the mid-center of the barrel where his perception reached. He pulled it, presenting it along with his strange motif that the young woman probably could have noticed by now. His rabbit ears atop his head that twitched with each puzzling movement from his tapping, then to his sway of his body. His smile brandishing as he held the veggie close to his face. “I guess you can call my kind ‘entertainment’ miss,” he began, “Or at least, that is what they refer to us as. I am visiting from the Earth Country. My clan is nomadic, so we do not affiliate with villages and their militia system. In other words, I am simply a traveling with my kin.” Kindly exclaiming, the whispers still polluted the store. His ears could hear every voice speaking of the young rabbit speaking to the young woman. It was common, no matter had it been himself, or his family, the world of shinobi and other worlds alike ran parallel with their opinions on the Usagi Clan. However, it was easy for the young violet haired boy to ignore. Even more so now that he was talking to someone who seemed less judgmental and more kindly.

“No need,” he replied kindly, “I should do better at not interfering with someone’s shopping.” He said that in a joking manner of course, his misty eyes staring straight as he had taken his time walking to the bin. The steps he made were smooth and with a stride, conveying just how easy going. His smile cool and reassuring, regardless of the whispers. It was not until his ears twitching, noticing Kyubi still in his vicinity that he had become interested in her. After all, not many who seen him or his kin would simply reply so kindly to him and still be around afterwards. As he reached to the bin, sorting through the fruit, he had mused with his pressed lips. “Excuse me, ma’am!~” he sung, “You are a shinobi, yes? I noticed your footsteps.” Maybe that was where her fearlessness come from? The Rabbit heard so much about the Land of Fire shinobi. He had observed her promptly as if he had eyes on the back of his head. His ears had twitched hearing her breathing, her heartbeat like a symphony that would tell of her details from the length of the hair to the single movement of each toe had she made one. However, the color of her eyes, hair, and the pigments of her outfit was lost to him. The blackness of the void was always there for comfort. Regardless of just how morbid his fate was, the rabbit still had a radiant aura. The smile that matched was clear as day as he turned, watching Kyubi and reflecting her image into his hazy irises. He patiently waited for the response of the female, intrigued by her solemn nature. Now, he was only curious to know if she honestly would speak to him in that “disgusted” manner or not.

The chatter of the horde became whispers… Something akin to it at least. Everyone knew the procedure when the rabbit ears had become present in any of the great nation’s villages. Kohonagakure was no exception from that rule as they followed the unspoken word as if by religion, marveling at the figure who had walked down the streets. Bodies would motion to the sides of the streets as if waves parting, and the small child’s eyes were covered and motioned away in mid-stride. The parents would make sure that they were not in the meeting path of the rabbits whenever they would come, even if it was just a single one. Still, the day was lovely, even with hostility. So, it did not affect the single rabbit that went down the street. His violet hair cascading upon the beautiful woven kimono. The embroidery was glistening in the light as the sleek obsidian pattern ran along the edges as trim, and patterned to be what seemed like the paw of a rabbit upon his back that seemed broad. However, the form of the figure seemed so delicate as his pale face had brandished a warm smile that made the heart-shaped marking on his right cheek stretch ever so slightly. However, his most captivating feature, his hazy faded eyes, had life in them even though they saw nothing but pure darkness. Even still, he seemed capable, more so to even wander into the nearby market place that he desired. “That aroma was here…” his gentle voice projecting the innocent, curious thought. He had walked, lightly, stopping in his trail right behind the female, Kyubi. “There you are!” He called out with his gentle feminine tone of voice. They clearly was around the same height, unless she would take notice to the standing rabbit-like ears on his head that seemed to twitch as he stood there behind the shinobi. His hands were concealed in the large sleeves of his robe, but he dangerously revealed his gentle demeanor as his relaxed shoulders and charming smile remained upon his face. It was not purposeful, but rather a clan trait if anything as the rabbits were known to have been quite beautiful. “Eww! Already she’s claiming one!” “In such a public place? Those rascals have no shame!” “Well HE needs to go back to his hole with the rest of ‘em!” “Wait! They CAN be male?!” It was enough to get gawking eyes and vile whispers. His ears twitched, hearing each one, but he seemed to ignore them. They were as clear as day to anyone, even if the rabbit had used the active ears upon the top of his head or not. However, that would not keep him from his goal as the figure had broken the bridge that was his hands across his body from under his sleeves and gesturing with one of the limply hanging clothes like a hand to the female in his general direction before him. “Those fruits behind you, ma’am.” he continued, “I-I desire it you see, but I can wait until you are done browsing. It is not all that important.” It seemed the only thing that stood between the rabbit-like figure in the market and a bin of assorted exotic fruits was Kyubi. True to his word, with a smile, he stood there awaiting patiently for herself to be done browsing. OOC Notes: Since no one else posted, I will do so myself. Now Listening To: Nothing at the moment.

((Sorry, was waiting twenty-four hours to make sure everyone posted. Looks like that's all of 'em. Gonna keep doing that.)) @, @@The Cerberus, @@BloodDrops, @@Hazard Time, @@Pripyat Pony Wow! A suspicious lot weren’t they? Well, Arcana could not blame them. For all they knew he could have been some sort of mole. No one liked those. So he decided to oblige the jailed Crystal Pony. After all, it was only polite to address a lady’s request. “Well, I suppose my name may be something of value to you my dear. It is apparently what you all ask of me. My name is-” Interrupted… He did not have the chance to say it, nearly biting his tongue. The jester had not enough time to turn and see what clinched and dragged him. He was only left with a glare that could freeze the soul that he would have had. His eyes meet the serious expression of the Zombie, this time, a piece of his cloth in her teeth. His large coat was now tore enough to fully expose the right leg on his flank. The cutie mark that was exposed revealing the two-toned jester’s hat. He smiled as he turned his hind towards the gates. Obviously, he had stirred the rage of the undead. @, @@BloodDrops, @@Hazard Time “Oh? My manners.” he spoke to the zombie, “You have my thanks. Certainly, I am not ignoring you. I am returning the favor to you and your group, as per our agreement. You see, I was not simply amusing myself, but making sure your escape plan goes sound. No flattery for favor of any kind. You see, this dignified crystal mare has a way about her that surely makes her tongue dangerous…a tongue that we can use to woo our guards. After all, you don’t quite see prisoners with a physique like hers and seem to be here for being anything less than clever.” Arcana said this as he trotted past the crystal pony. A lift hoof lifting and pressing upon the gate of the mask. @, @@The Cerberus, @@Pripyat Pony “As for this enigmatic relic, no doubt does it possess great power. Its existence in this infernal place and its dialect are proof of it. I know nothing of it, and I have lived over centuries! Isn’t he just…fascinating?!” The pony had smile that was like a child in a trance, stroking the bars of the cell in place of even touching the mask. Nothing intrigued him more than relics that were older than himself. They were like treasure awaiting to be dust off and used at disposal. Turning his head to the Siren, he continued on, breaking his powerful self-inflicted trance he had with the ancient mask. “Melodies aside,” Arcana continued, “We should liberate these two as well. There is a certain trio of creatures that will be coming here shortly, and it will take more than a song and muscle to be rid of them. I can already tell you now, we have very little chance of leaving here without them. The Princess of Friendship has already made sure not to make things easy due to Cerberus having quite the curious nose and leaving his post.“ Arcana stared at the three locks on the crashed cell bars that was once the door to his cage. For the first time, he made a face that was not his best look: grim…as were his odds. “Not to mention, time is short. The King and myself are without our magic, and that is another factor that could help have we the means to move these infernal rings. So much to do…” he said sitting there, awaiting for them as if his condition was absolute. He had a dull deadpan of an expression as he stared off to the cells on each side of him where the mask and the crystal pony were captive “…and I warn you, if we await for the sound of the Gryphon’s wingbeat, we may very well meet our doom. Much more terrifying than losing my will to a siren song, right? I hope I have an ear remaining to even hear your song.” He shot a smile to the siren as if he was shooting a bullet to land his point…was he lying? He had to be! He had such a calm demeanor and wandering eyes. Could he be that ready to die? Either way, the pony seemed to not be moving, as if he was certain that he seen the future with his very own eyes. His hoofs reached to his back only to place from his pouch a single card that had the blank features of a ponies profile. With one flip of the card, it revealed the determined expression of ponies pulling a massive carriage with another pony mounting it. They seemed to dash to the distance unimpeded by whatever may have been in their path. “What fate will they choose…” Arcana spun the card from its base as the colors on the image distorted, the sound was a slick sweep across the floor, and the whirling card blew into a circle as if a herd pegasi was causing a whirlwind around the piece of cardboard. Arcana had hummed in amusement as he awaited for them to decide what they would do: take the advice of the strategist, or make a mad dash for the exit.

@@BloodDrops He looked to the destroyed cell door and then to the Zombie. “…well-noted.” On both counts: her kind as well as her skill were simply astonishing. No doubt the loss of pain receptors as well as limitations the body has when live were fueling that benign display of strength. He started to change his mind: this group of creatures were more useful than he thought. However, a little brash and brute, but a little less brainless than the rest of the individuals that were within the prison. The cocooned changeling had seemed to become inactive, and therefore, useless. Arcana had trotted proudly in a refined manner as he had looked about his surroundings. There was much more clarity than in his cell. Thus, it opened up his eyes to more possibility, more potential, and even more of the individuals that were in the prison. Not to mention more dangers. Still, Arcana was charmed upon getting a more up-close perspective of the group. Passing the Zombie, he stood before the figure that given off an aura like no other. No doubt he felt this feeling centuries before: anyone would know a King (or a tyrant) just by standing in their presence. With a bend of his knees, he lowered his head in a royal bow that would make modesty just a word. @ “My lord,” he said before standing up and passing around the King in a loop, “Certainly you should trust this matter to me. I know a king, and if I know anything about a royalty, they must put faith in their chancellor.” The words Arcana offered were of his own time. Centuries ago as he retained his lived serving many for the purpose of being instructor. If there was anything he appreciated more than the finesse of an organized battalion, it was to impress royalty with his service and intellect. “You asked my name before,” he noted, “But certainly a king doesn’t worry of such things. Not when he simply desires victory. Thus, I promise that and my alias when we leave this hell.” Not many could see the bigger picture: not like him at least. So he caught the last of the question as he gazed to the particular cells of two creatures in general. Smiling, he had replied to the last of the dialogue between the Siren and the Zombie. @@Pripyat Pony; @@BloodDrops “Not quite yet my little zombie,” he said brandishing a smile to the pony and the mask while approaching their cells, “…insurance is a must when making history my dear. Just as we need a siren, we also need a trustworthy face…and the maiden.” He joked…in some small sick twisted way. Though, his smile was more amused at the sight of the two in their cells rather than his own words. Still, even if they had little time, Arcana’s perception was clear down to the last second. It would take a moment for him to recruit whom he needed, a minute to deal with the warden and the impending three-headed mutt. Not to mention the inevitable escape if his plan went well. The liberation would be something to talk about for the ages. He would not miss his chance to make history inside this prison and out! @@Hazard Time @ “My lord, your beautiful diplomat rests right here in your cell,” Arcana addressing King Vlakor while gesturing a hoof to the Crystal Pony, “You clearly do not belong here: your appearance is of a noble and you trot with a pride in your hoof that speaks as if you are almost equal to a King. Certainly, your talented is wasted here, and may I ask your name?” @@The Cerberus “…and certainly, yours as well. Your origins quite intrigue me.” A mask was meant to be worn, and a beautiful mare was meant to rule. No doubt persuasion and coveting the face of society in some way was among their talents. Arcana was being kind and formal, but the truth of the matter was he already had treason in his mind…and not just for when he escaped. His composure tamed, body still as stone, he stood noble in the red flaring lights that went off in the prison; blanketing his face as he waited as still as a statue for them to respond. The sound of beating hooves could be heard and cries in the prison were reaching across the facility with hands that craved freedom. However, they were useless for the moment. Arcana’s eyes were set on these two.

For the moment? Kingdom Hearts...

@@Spellvamp | @@BloodDrops | @@Pripyat Pony | @@Handsome Changeling | @ The sound of a hoof knocking on the metal locks on the bars were like a bell chiming in the prison… “New? Not quite.” The caged pony drew back his hoof after placing their attention on the locks, “Freedom keeps me from joining your corral, and from the sound of things, you all aim for a freedom much higher than myself. Regardless, it is very amusing to find that we have things in common if not a lovely voice like your ‘Siren Friend’ there.” He was flirty, but only for a moment. Flattery was just as good as currency in any situation as one of the books he shoved to the edge of his cage was “Deities, Myths, and Lore: Legends of Old Equestria.” “My name is of no importance…not to a lot like you. Your freedom is, and so, that is of the utmost priority, correct? So, dare I say, freeing me is nothing but a very small price to pay. Then you all can go back to your lives. Spending time, giving out your own brands of justice, revenge, and the like?” He paused as if awaiting for the group to confirm his suspicions. However, he knew he did not need to. To anyone in this place, the chance at freedom was as good as a pile of bits. And if that was the case, he had a mountain… “I guarantee your freedom.” he continued, “All you have to do is guaranty mine…and if I fail, call my claims a ‘jest’ then call me a ‘fool’ and feed me to your friend if you must.” The pony approached the bars and tilted his head to the nearby pony-eater. After doing so, he leaned his right shoulder blade to the bars of his prison. His affect unmoving and mild, but his smile was gentle and filled with an unsettling confidence. His eyes shifted from the group, awaiting for them to take the weight of his offer: one that trumped the ‘what if’ that they were probably trying to put together. However, compared to their fancies of escape, he knew his vision trumped their fantasies.

This was a list of unsavory characters… As Arcana watched the many of the individuals outside his cell, he seemed to be vastly disappointed by this place. There were crooks, cons, and carnivores of all kinds. Not to mention the fiends, fakes, and flawed! Not to mention the list of characters that were not far from his cell. They had seemed to become very enamored with each other’s presence. Say what they will, sure they seemed like they hated each other’s guts, but anyone who stood around each other’s presence for this long either was a part of those “mean girl” cliques or had a common goal in mine. The common thing a group like that had in common: this place. “Can I make them into my fools?” the jester thought to himself as he looked to his cell, the bars adorned by three locks. “Or is this a task that even fools could not undertake?” Arcana twisted his lips curiously. It had been a while since he had been in such a predicament. He was locked in his cell with three keys. His motions were limited as a fail-safe. His very presence was just as dangerous as his moving lips. He had used both in the days of old in order to move masses, monarchs, and mere ponies that sold their soul for knowledge. He gave it, and then he claimed without hesitation! Thus, the wise-pony decided to try what he was best at: playing the fool…for now. @@Spellvamp “Then your value is small…” Arcana chimed in. He had a nonchalant smile as he sat shadowed by the bars of his cell looking to the group. @@Spellvamp | @@BloodDrops | @@Pripyat Pony | @@Handsome Changeling | @ “I hate to admit it…phenomenally, but even the Princess of Friendship did not make error the power numbers had to accomplish.” Arcana kicked at the book in his cell in a dreary and very disgusted manner. He treasured tomes and books, but the sight of the manuscript was like filthy in his eyes, “Thus, I do not think you should go eating, enchanting, or forsaking potential variables…not just yet at least.” The pony had been sitting on his hind in the cell moving his hoofs to and “fro.” It was only until he finally finished talking that he stood up on all fours. His marvelous brown cloak and trench coat – tattered at the edges. His hat on his head matched as the rim had become worn with time and hardship. His goggles were cracked on the right lens, but there was no need for them: he could see the group he was focusing on clearly. Sure, their squabbling was unlike the others in the prison: loud and even more friction than usual, but weren’t the diamonds always in the rough? “You all gather here outside my cell, but for not the sake of kinship…or even friendship even. So tell me,” he chimed, “What disdain causes you to gather here outside my…’comfy’ little prison.” His sarcasm as obvious as his curiosity, but his intentions not clear just yet. He seemed to have a thing for bartering his usual commodity: knowledge. He just wanted to know just how much they were willing to pay him back after just a sample.

Those creatures had been talking a while now, and that was probably for the best. Their eyes were toward one another: spite, a mix of hesitation, but the unmistakable whiff of hate! It was usually the favorite palette of the unicorn that would use every little self-serving emotion to rile up the masses, but here, it was pointless! Watching a few prisoners argue with one another was like watching a bunch of “has-beens” who failed to place their footprint in history. Not those rumored stained glass pieces that were in the throne rooms: those were humiliating! The true mark of history was in the books! That’s where Arcana belonged! He loved the chapters he turned behind the bars of his cell. There were many scrolls, tomes, and proverbs based off his heroic combat strategies in battle. But those were all his heroics were, in the midst of war where he would plot, plan, and ensure the victory of the masses. He played in the shadows, and it was perfect! History talked about genius, admiration, and respect! That…was not any of these criminals making noise. Arcana did not care for them – none of them. Not the siren did not know when to be silent, nor the kings that (he most likely convinced some other monarch to wage war against) were too pompous for their own good. Arcana had lived too long a time, and so he did not have an interest in the relics of Tartarus. His fascination ceased the moment he had set foot in the prison, and then became bored when he looked left, right, and rested on the insides of his cell. Now he was hearing voices that were not his own, padding of patrolling foot prints, and not to mention the bellowing of beasts of the prison. All backdrop noise to his studies as he continued to breath in the scent of book pages and listened to his voice speak the text within his mind. “How naïve…” his voice calm, and regal…but with a hint of disgust. “There was actually a Princess of ‘Friendship’ crowned. Equestria wants to forget that in the time of monarchy, there was battles waged on end. There was death, hate, and the hunger for revenge. How naïve to think that ‘Friendship’ could exist in these times.” His hooves moved a set of cards on the floor’s surface. “Such a fate is not possible for Equestria. History will repeat itself.” Arcana looked almost in pity at the card beneath his hoof and flipped it face-down. It was an eye sore of a reminder. He felt sorry for the living, and envied the dead. He would turn the pages in the book looking for a word that would be even less sickening than the last. He failed…on all counts. Thus, Arcana had turned to the cover with a slam, shoved the book aside to reveal the face that was “The Vital Points of Harmony” and dared to do what he cared the least for: looking outside his cell. “Perhaps I shall hear of others’ mundane stories in this place…”

“Great!” Not great! The young boy had sold the sarcasm with a smile and a brush of his right hand through his long hair. He thought he could at least go the opposite direction or some other direction that the other local trainers were most likely not heading. He did not plan on making friends, nudging shoulders, and talking about “that one time” or even making a memory close to it! However, there were some things he would just have to swallow, and his mouth was still parted open after a slight sigh of a breath. “W-well…we should get going. Thank you very much, professor!” A skip of his foot could have been mistaken for enthusiasm as he walked out the door, but the wooden sandals were unkind to him at that moment. His uneasiness made him almost miss a step as he thought about the discomfort of his path. He was being somewhat hypocritical, he knew this, but he did not want to interact to such a great degree on his path to make a more suitable name. The young boy had tucked the items away in the shoulder bag, including the Pokeball the Bulbasaur had been in. With one glance, he could tell that the small grass-type was ready for action; any order whatsoever. At least he had one he could accept as a friend and find comfort in it. He walked to the outside of the lab, thanking the Gods once again, but this time for the beaten dirt that was under the sole of his footwear. He continued walking as he had lifted the small top of his bag for just a glimpse at the Pokedex. A map feature was good for showing the area as far as local Pokemon were common at, but even more so was to apply common sense and context to where the ferry most likely would be. It would be easier to ask, but a little hard for people to forget his face once he did. So he kept to his natural senses: his ability to navigate himself across a layout and the smell of the breeze that came to his nose. The scent of waters and green life were. The island was surrounded by water it seemed, and so the scent was abundant. It only taken him a moment to get to the edge of route one, his hand guiding him through the air aimlessly as he tried to reach for the nearest person, and grasping the most likely person that looked like a ferryman. “Excuse me, but…when is the next ferry across Route One, sir?” The Bulbsaur looking up attentively to…whomever this was.

“The fray?” Orchid asked, “N-not…exactly..” He was hesitant to explain, and so he did not. There were some things that some people were just meant to remain ignorant about. So, the violet haired boy had listened to the professor as he had glided over the Pokedex that was placed before him. He delicately grabbed it with two fingers, a fortunate display of its design as he lifted it slightly with his fingers to show how slim and sleek it was. The first target, of course, was the Bulbasaur that was sitting upon the table. He was already familiar with the common statistics: the average weight, height, and type. However, new variables were there! “Latent Energy?” he inquired to the professor, “As in – the energy needed before evolution or relative to…something else?” It was an interesting subject! The Pokemon World had professors that were studying many fields when it came to what they wanted to know about Pokemon. There were theories conducted on evolution, expansion of present species, not to mention dormant evolution. He was intrigued by the subject that the professor brought up, but even more so by the Bulbasaur that was attentive towards him. The young boy closed the Pokedex with a simple flick of the wrist that pressed his thumb to the corresponding button and gazed at the other two with a smile. …a dismissive smile. “Well, I have made my choice, ” he noted to the small audience, “We will be partners. There is so very much for us to learn! Care to come along?” The Bulbasaur nodded, and it was in a truly intrigued way. Its eyes stayed upon Orchid as if there answers to mysteries in his very blue eyes. With that, Orchid turned to the professor, taking the one Pokeball that was among the items that were meant for preparation. His hand straddled what seemed to be a hefty shoulder back that slumped along to his waist. His power was in his legs, so his hips would bare the weight. There was also the free right hand that stroked the Bulbsaur’s seed upon its back. The left finished packing away the items while the right hand opened freely to press a thumb in his palm to observe the texture through his touch. “This seed seems pretty large above the average. Your ability has to be Chlorophyll.” It was a rare ability for a Bulbasaur, and it was like a sign from the Gods that this was meant to be! A Pokemon that was a Grass-Type and Poison-Type was just what he needed! Not only that, but a Bulbasaur with a rare ability to absorb the sunlight meant that he would have the healthiest of flowers that would grow upon his back. It meant that there was a lot of potential that would come from this pairing. “Well, Professor, I hope your research goes well.” The violet haired boy said (whether he got his reply or not), “I will be sure to transmit some interesting data from Pokemon to you if it ever comes. Before I go, what are the closest routes that are near your lab and where did the other trainers embark to?” he asked.

I love how informed you are. That means it can make this easy, even for me. Before I answer, I would like to state my credentials and work seeing as I am a Psychology Major, but probably less educated than some: i am a Psychology Major/Sociology Minor with a special interest in Psychological personalities and Media. I researched the topic of Bronies with Professor Chadborn at SELU and I work as a Mental Health Specialist. Severe conditions just as the ones you describe: Schizophrenia, Autism (across all spectrum), and BPD are life-long, of course, but can be managed. Depression and Anxiety can vary depending on the person's environmental factors and current situation. it is hard to say which ones prevail and which ones still have trouble managing since people are so varied among themselves. They do not experience the same factors as one person might to the next. However, you can mark what contribute to it. For an example, a person with depression with a support system has more of a chance of prevailing in conquering their depressive state than someone with no support, no regulation, and no treatment. No, you cannot treat something by simply telling someone to "be happy" or "be positive." If anything, it takes time and effort from a very caring support system, a specialist/professional, and/or a very careful use of medication with therapy to heighten the chance of success. PTSD (If I recall since I do not have any client like this) varies as well. What are we talking about: nightmares, a certain situation, or a response to a certain presence, etc?

The world ended yesterday…but today was just a little bit better. It was the usual yesterday as he went down the checklist in his head: making sure his cards had his face on it, but a different name he was accustom to, making sure he answered to one name and never the other, and not to mention the obligatory movements across one region and making sure his passport said one of those names that made a scowl come to his face. He heard a number of them already, and each one to the last made his expression become as straight as the letter “U.” But, for now, he just wanted everyone to settle with “Orchid.” So that is just what Orchid thought about in his head: who he would be, what he would do, and not to mention what in the world was he doing on a plain between the Pikachu Fanatic collecting a horde of cute dolls talking about her trip to Kanto that completed her collection and the snoring Mountain Climber that smelled like rocks, boulders, and obviously were not the most pleasant remains of a Golem’s stone rear. If he had not had the window seat, none of this would not have made sense, but yet, between gazing at the passing clouds and walking into the Medowrue Pokemon Lab, it started to make sense. Science! The “Wonderful World of Pokemon” (as they called it), was a place full of potential, simply because there were so many species and combinations. There was a living Venus Fly Trap! There was a lot of things you could do with that! When Orchid was young, he could think about those things: what the acidic composition of the saliva could do when combined with the poisonous make up of a nasty Pokemon made of waste, what the potential hallucinating effects the smell of a gas spewing Pokemon could do when heightened by the effects of a paralysis-type powder. The thought of seeing someone going into a seizure was… …well, underwhelming. That was probably why his parents were idiots! Drugs and weapons came to mind, but those formulas were like a bane to the brain! It was knowledge he could do without, just like the waste of space that his parental figures were in a jail cell. A hatred brought him here, but yet it was not apparent as the smile was on his face the moment he stroked the pen to sign his alias, slid the clipboard gently as the curtain of cloth paved with flowers had drawn back to his lap leaving the secretary to look over it. “Thank you!” he said charmingly, “…and sorry for being late.” He was late, and the beaten path leaving the lab had told him that many of the trainers had come and gone, whether it was one hour ago or one decade ago. He would take his time, no matter how long it would take him to begin his journey today. He had taken his time going to the lab's center to see the Pokemon that were left; his silk garment sweeping the floor gently as if he was floating, but the knock of the wooden flats struck the floor to tell another story. It was to be expected that he was. After all, he had to make sure he said good-bye to yesterday…forever. Types Selected: Grass | Bug | Poison | Fairy | Ghost | Fire | Dragon

His ears were not twitching... He had to minimize his Chakra flow as much as possible. He did not have the strength to keep up his jutsus for long. The violet haired boy braved walking around as he could faintly hear the sounds that were so crystal clear to him in the past. His hands moved around as if he was completely shrouded in darkness...in which case, he was. Each faint step and each stab of the staff into the terrain gave him a short range projection view for him to follow where he was. He was not going to be found by them, not yet. "They were not strong or anything," he thought to himself, "...and they were naive." Every little little word that spurred out the groups mouth as Xenneth had fought made him cringe more than any kunai piercing the flesh ever could. His lips twisted remembering them persisting about covering one another and their ties. Sure, he was fighting as they spoke, but within a mile or two, it was like screams to his very vulnerable ears. Surely, even his clan's highest power with her all-mighty hearing would hear the roars of those relentless ninja and their babbling. "They were just luck this time." he told himself, dismissive of their rants and ravings. He perched his back to a nearby tree trying to regain his strength. He just needed a little time to concentrate and regain his strength as he hugged himself while trying to remain quiet, listening to his surroundings.

@@Yoshikupo ((Sorry...been busy.)) It was still enough for Heart to gawk...at least for a moment. He continued to do so in the inside. Maybe he was imagining seeing those perfect teeth of hers? Or probably he finally was delusional? This place had been stressful and he didn't hink he would cut it. His rough hooves that still was stained with dirt wass not a common thing for him. He was a gentle touch that was light on his feet and swift to boot! Heart pressed his hooves into the ground not believing he had come at least this far. His eyes went to Banner who was beisde him right now for that moment. His own smile coming his face as she spoke about how she sounded saying such things to him. It did not sound corny at all. If anything, hearing Banner talk like this, it was relaxing and breaking him away from his disbelief. Along with the bell that did not save anyone...not even this moment. It went just as quickly as it came, and Banner going with it before Heart could even give a response about the barracks. The time of the meeting was to be at eight hundred hours (I am assuming 8 AM). Before he could gather his thoughts, already he was trying to process the moment they had and more to come as she acstually agreed to train him. "S-sure! I'll be there!" ...she agreed to train with him?!! "Wait...shoot..." Now that was an alarming thought. In hindsight, it sounded good at first, but the thought of disappointing her was set in. He just hoped he could sleep tonight as he walked away to the barracks with his practice sword. It was time to call it a night.

"Oh! M-me?" He was caught off guard. The only thing that was on Heart's mind was the story that Banner had spoke to him. He was not sure, but there was a hint of sadness in her tone that he caught at the end. It puzzled him. Did she not want to be a warrior? Did she not like being a dependable soldier admired by Equestrian recruits that wished to fight on the frontlines? She seemed to understand why her step parents had to fight, but Heart had looked at her thinking perhaps there was something more. Something he just could not see. "I am...nothing special." he said, stretching his dual wings on his left side of his body. "My parents are around and alive. They live in Ponyville. After I was born, Cloudsdale...was not an option for them to live in anymore." he was sad himself saying this, feeling ashamed. Long ago, he felt like an anchor, just like now, sitting by banner. His one side with wings and the right side seemed to be as plain as the flank of an Earth pony. He truly felt like a burden. A disgrace to Pegasi! "I just spent time learning about others. Trying to learn as many skills as possible so I won't drag anyone down...and I've become real good at it too. It took my almost forever to learn what my Cute Mark meant. I guess...I just had to accept I am the way I am, but I have the potential to be better everyday if I just wake up and apply myself. I guess...that's kind of why I like to get to know ponies like you." He looked at her with a weak and awkward smile. He could not help it! It some way, he was trying to express his feelings, no matter how on edge he was teetering to do so. There was more, so much more he could have mentioned: like her hair, that expression of hers that he wanted to fix just to see her smile, and the way she had this strong walk of hers filled with resolve. She was everything he wished he was.. Maybe that was why he had such admiration for her? Admiration that he could not speak of...not yet at least.

"Oh!" he was not sure how to respond. "O-oh!" he was stuck in a loop. He did not want to take her rations. Already, he felt like he was slacking behind her. Then again, looking into her eyes, he felt like he could not refuse. Not out of intimidating, but because he wanted to take any chance he could get to be near her. He reached out the maw of his mouth, taking the packaged baar graciously before he used his hooves to unravel the packaging. "Thank you very much." he mentioned. Taking the first bite, he ignored the somewhat grained taste of the energy bar. It was just like any other health considerate piece of food. It however gave him the chance to chew while he thought of the best question to ask out of the many that went through his head. With a swallow and a wayward gaze to Banner, he decided on one. "You mentioned how you were like me when you were a kid," he began. Somewhat, he was hesitant to go on to ask, "What was your life like, if you don't mind me asking? It's just...you are so strong. I just am curious...and I guess I want to know more about you." his own cheeks burned until the rosy red color appeared on his white furry face. He tried to hide it with a turn of his cheek as he chewed. It was not like he was use to talking to mares...especially one beyond the ordinary like Banner.

"This is not good..." Xenneth's ears were still burning through Chakra, enough to know that Eriza was serious about slaughtering another tribeman. She knew very well he could hear from far distances, so the uttering of another possible murder of his brethren was not even funny. The violet haired boy had paused for a minute...only a minute as he had thought about what she said, but it was enough to give him some clarity. He now had a plan. "They aren't going to win like this..." They were doomed. The Akatsuki would kill them all, whether they had good inside intel from a former member or not. The violet haired boy was not familiar with Wolf by acquaintance until now. Even at this moment, he was thinking a lot about her declaration and resolve. She was so set on protecting her comrades that she went through incredible measure...even if in the end, it was very sparse because of how the end result ended with a lot of injuries. "...but...I don't think anyone died." Xenneth stood down, sitting back behind one of the many trees in the forest. His hands reached out as it touched the mighty body of the tree. Surely, with this distance and Eriza's mind on murder, she would not notice him, and she would probably expect him to head back to his clansman. So, Xenneth stood by, listening from his position as the group had gathered their bearings while trying to regroup. Honestly, he was curious to know how they would act in the face of their near defeat.

"Well..." he trailed off. Sure, there was more he could say, but he was not sure how to express it or even where to begin? She was one of the aspiring examples of a soldier? He liked the philly-like posture even if she was made for combat at heart? Perhaps it was that he wanted to know about her since the day he met her cleaving through the brittle pieces of wood and toppling her enemies in her wake? "I like you..." he winced as if it pained his heart, "...train me. I mean...I would like for you to help train me. I know, there is a lot of procedure and I am not any special rookie, but...you were the first to notice me, and I think you would be perfect in helping me improve more than any other pony." Plus, he would get to spend more time with her, but yet that part was left unsaid. He just spoke with a smile that faded the more he talked. By the moment, he felt like he was being some nuisance rather than a soldier. He was looking at her like some sort of nervous love sick puppy rather than a potential soldier. He turned his head, somewhat dejected. Already, he felt like he was rejecteed when he went over his request in his head.