Mega
Dream Eaters
Posts: 145
Gender: Male
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Post by Mega on May 8, 2019 19:02:46 GMT -5
Charlotte actually lost her footing this time, silently cursing her choice to wear heels. After she got back to her feet, she pulled Strax over someplace she could wrap her tail around him and something else to keep them both from falling overboard. She didn't think she'd have time to completely get him below deck, and she was definitely more of a ranged fighter. So seeing the tower in hot pursuit, she whipped up her fireballs once more, a dark and demonic aura emanating from them as she bombarded the tower with them. And then that dark, sinister presence returned in the mind of Law. It was making itself more obvious to him now, as a series of eyes seemed to appear around him as the same voice said, "She has made the last shot free. Another will cost you..." the voice whispered, the eyes watching Law only visible to him. "Will you trade some of your spoils? Or will your Greed drag everyone down to the bottom with you?" The Voice added, making it's terms known.
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Post by therunawaygirl on May 9, 2019 19:42:55 GMT -5
Neku's request was apparently either ignored, or just not heard. Regardless, the Tower forcing the Harpy to make quick and sudden maneouvers made Neku lose his footing, and falling back to the floor on his back. Out of pure instinct, he held his sword's handle firmly, as if trying to draw strength from it. Whatever was happening now was hard as it was...
Hearing Law's shout about pulling out of that place, and his order for everyone who was hurt to get below deck, Neku forced himself back up from the slippery floor under the thunderous storm. He couldn't lose heart, nor hope. He was getting everyone out alive, no matter the cost.
"Got it!" Neku shouted back, trying to make himself heard over the rain.
Making as much effort as he could to not fall, Neku made his way to the end where he could see the Tower ralling up for yet another attack. Unsheathing his sword and holding it firmly, Neku waited for his chance to dodge the attack. But how? He didn't have anything he could use to jump and attack the rapidly approaching tide of Heartless. Nor any knowledge about gliding or even flying magics that could help. How could he help fend that monster away?
"Dammit... I can't let it get to me...!" he told himself, "I gotta distract it somehow..." Neku looked at Charlotte after she threw her fireballs once more, "She'll run outta power soon..." ...Jump down. "Huh...?" Neku froze for a second. I'll grab you... Jump down... Hurry...! "...Mei...?"
It was as time froze for a second around him. That very familiar voice made Neku freeze in place, breathing heavily as memories began to surface once more. That caring smile... That kind personality... And that soothing voice... All of them were the exact same as before. But... Where was she?
"Mei!" Neku shouted, looking around. Unbeknownst to him, he was the only one to hear her voice. Hurry it up, Neku...! If you don't jump now, I...!
Neku didn't need to be told three times by then. He trusted in that voice. He stepped a bit back, sheathing his sword back, before dashing towards the edge and jumping down the Harpy, unflinching with courage. Mei's voice gave him enough strength to keep going.
Falling down towards what seemed to be an endless pool of darkness, Neku clenched both fists tightly. A glimmer shone amongst the shadows, and a rail of light showed itself for Neku to move on. He flipped his body for his feet to be looking at the rail, and then let it do its job -guide him around the Tower, and showing him a safe path. Neku unsheathed his sword once more, determined to help his friends run away safely.
"I'm not letting you get us, got it?!" Neku yelled, trying to catch the Tower's attention, "I'm the one you gotta focus onto now! So bring it on!" ...I'll keep redirecting the trail so that it can't hurt you, Neku... You do what you know best...! "..." Neku smiled calmly, and even a bit nostalgic, "Thanks... Mei..."
He got in a battle-ready pose after wiping away his rebelious tears, ready for a fight.
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Post by straxeragous on May 13, 2019 3:20:17 GMT -5
Strax did what he could to assist Charlotte with moving him. When she stopped, he slowly and gently unwrapped her tail from around him and slowly and carefully crawled to go below deck, clawing what he could into the boards on deck. He took a deep breath before tossing himself down the stairs, figuring it would get him to safety quicker than trying to climb down the stairs as Law drove. Strax then crawled his way to a bed and pulled himself into it. Here he would lay and wait.
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Post by hoodwink on May 13, 2019 17:07:08 GMT -5
Law cursed silently as he reeled The Harpy through the storm, fleeing from the swirling Dark Tower that continued to rage behind them. As they continued to close the distance between the island and the mist surrounding it, his crew was a wave of motion as they attacked or sought the safety of lower deck. As Charlotte, formidable as always, hurled more demonic magic through the raging storm air towards the twisting mass of Heartless, a voice seemed to flit through the pirate's head. -"She has made the last shot free. Another will cost you..."- Law jolted before the steering wheel, whipping his head around as he searched for the source of the voice. -"Will you trade some of your spoils? Or will your Greed drag everyone down to the bottom with you?"- His piercing blue eyes frantically searched the sky around them. Where is that voice coming from?! Was he finally losing his wits? Had this situation finally brought upon the ruin of the sky pirate's mind? For a moment, the pirate believed he was seeing countless eyes watching him as a powerful presence seemed to suffocate around him.
Without much time to contemplate this possibility, Law was sent into further panic as Neku unsheathed his mighty sword and jumped over the side of the sky ship. "Neku!" Law shouted out over the rain, reaching a hand out to where he had seen the teenager leap. The eyes disappeared around him the moment he had seen the young swordsman jump. Did he lose heart?! The pirate had sworn he had heard the teen shouting out that he had regained himself. Had that been a lie? The pirate was stunned to silence as suddenly a brilliant ray of light seemed to appear below the ship. A long railing of pure light energy had appeared, allowing the young mercenary to seemingly skate along it, wielding his sword in his powerful hands with a confident look as he sped towards the large Dark Tower. That maniac is going to charge the thing?!? Law felt his heart lurch down into the pit of his stomach.
Strax had collapsed below deck, needing the rest to regain himself. The wolf was in terrible shape, at the moment. Charlotte, their main source of ranged cover, seemed to have a toll to pay in order to continue to use her powers...or rather, a toll Law himself had to pay, it seemed. He still didn't fully understand what had happened with the voice earlier. Their last line of defense, Neku, was currently on a suicide mission, charging the twisting mass of Heartless head on. "WHAT THE ACTUAL F*#K IS GOING ON?!?!?!?" The pirate had finally lost his patience, giving into the frustration that had been steadily building during this entire expedition. Absolutely nothing was going according to plan. Damn it! I should just leave the brat behind! Though the thought sounded bitter and without mercy, its sentiment never reached the pirate's heart. Already, his hands were turning on the large steering wheel of the airship, spinning it around so that its side cannons could face the Dark Tower.
"That damned brat!" Law's left hand was flying across the control module beside him, pressing buttons and flipping switches as the powerful cannons below deck began to ignite with power and blast forth their lasers. As Neku charged towards the Dark Tower, sliding across the railing of light, two powerful bursts flew through the air, colliding with the mass of Heartless. The impact caused its trajectory to halt as it jerked in midair, many smaller Shadows falling forth from its form as it did so.
Law hoped it would provide enough of an opening for the young mercenary, who's sword and courage seemed to match each other in size.
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Mega
Dream Eaters
Posts: 145
Gender: Male
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Post by Mega on May 14, 2019 11:25:13 GMT -5
The voice remained silent but the speaker kept their presence in Law's mind... present. It had made it's bid for some of Law's plunder, and if he wanted to risk everything he had without it's aid, it was content to let him do so. It'd be easier to pick through the remains and get what it wanted that way; minus the ship maybe. Charlotte meanwhile was still ignorant of the voice, as it was focused on Law as she concentrated on catching her breath between salvos. Strax seemed to crawl his way below deck so that was one less concern for her. And then that kid did the logically most idiotic thing ever. "NEKU! We were about to leave!" Charlotte exclaimed. They just pulled Strax away and now this? He was too young to be acting like a martyr.
After Law flew the ship into a position to open fire on the tower, Charlotte aimed at a spot on the ground below the tower. And a second later a much larger than normal geyser of steaming, blackened water shot up to slice through part of the tower's mass. In hindsight she didn't know if that had been better or not just yet. But the smaller the tower was the better right? She followed up with a barrage of normal, hellfire balls at the Shadows dropping from the tower.
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Post by therunawaygirl on May 14, 2019 13:38:12 GMT -5
Neku swinged his sword away, blocking and countering the many Shadows tossed his way. He was done with standing back, and seeing those he cared for hurt. He had to give his all. It was only fair in his eyes.
With Mei's aid of guiding the rail of light around, Neku had no trouble getting his distance while still dealing damage. He smirked, as he jumped and clash his sword against a mass of Shadows making the Demon Tower. While Heartless were terrifying on their own ends... Neku wasn't afraid. He had faced stronger foes that the Heartless, after all.
"Your friends are worried..." Mei's voice echoed inside his head. "Let them worry" Neku replied, and then smiled a bit, "Shows they care, y'know? ...But we gotta get outta here. Mei, if they get out, can you---"
"That damned brat!" Neku almost jumped in shock hearing Law's shout, and then quick succession of cannon fire. The mass of Shadows was quick to lose shape, and Neku caught a glimpse of their weak point. Only for a second, as the Demon Tide seemed to regenerate quickly. But he was now determined to get that thing down. Clicking his tongue, Neku imbued his sword in lightning bolts, seemingly stronger due to the raging storm around him. Helped by the rail of light, Neku got close enough to the Demon Tide, and slammed against it. He forced his complete weight over the sword, struggling to make a dent amongst the Shadows. A pair of hands held the sword with him, hands he knew well. Neku looked at Mei, shocked, but the girl smiled a bit, and shook her head.
"Focus!" she said, "We can't lose now! So let me help!" "...Got it!" Neku nodded.
Regaining his reckless courage, Neku forced himself to the limits. The crackling sword, imbued in thunderbolts, began to make its way through the Heartless, and Neku quickly got inside the Tower for a second, quickly spotting the core holding it together. Determined, he held his sword tightly, before tossing it towards the core with mighty strength. He felt due to the gravity below him, and somehow managed to catch his sword.
He just hoped his attack struck true, and the Demon Tower was no longer there. Exhausted, Neku closed his eyes, having pushed himself past his known limits.
A faint light would then cover him, and bring him back to Law's ship, silent.
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Post by hoodwink on May 20, 2019 18:33:15 GMT -5
The storm raged on, pouring down among the ragged crew as the world beneath them seemed to fall apart into darkness. As Charlotte and Law provided openings for the reckless mercenary, the Dark Tower shuddered as Neku's large sword erupted into lightning. It was the only source of light other than the booming in the sky, blinding in the darkness as the teen tore through the Tower, into its core. As the large sword hurled through the mass, striking its core, Law spun the large steering wheel before him expertly. The Harpy swooped through the dark skies, swift and steady due to its Captain's stern concentration, just as the Dark Tower erupted in a burst of darkness that shook the sky. Though the airship was swift and sturdy, it shook violently as the wave of darkness from the explosion rippled forth, forcing it backwards. Gritting his teeth, Law kept his feet firmly planted to the wet boards beneath him as a burst of light revealed Neku to have been moved safely to the ship deck.
"What the hell?!" The pirate blinked in surprise, balking openly as he scratched the back of his soaked head. The teen was fast asleep, exhausted as the rain poured down on his exposed figure on the empty ship deck. The thunder boomed once more as the man's piercing blue eyes squinted at the young boy. Just what was that...? For a moment a scowl emerged on his face, though there was a humorous light in his eyes. "Damned brat went and fell asleep after a stunt like that?!" There was a slight pride in his chest. He couldn't help but be impressed at the teens sudden show of courage and strength. His gaze shifted to the demonic woman onboard, who had aided them with her powerful and otherworldly magic. What was that voice...? He still felt it, eyes watching him, though he couldn't see them anywhere. For a moment, the storm as the only sound. What had once been a large island shrouded in a mystical fog was now a sundered wound upon the world. Swirling purple and black darkness gaped beneath, with only a few remnants of land floating faintly among the turmoil. "We need to get out of here!" The pirate shouted to Charlotte, the only remaining conscious crew member.
"Can you take Neku downstairs? I'll get us out of here!" Already his hands were rapidly moving the steering wheel, the small airship turning and continuing its voyage up and over the mist. He couldn't waste time wondering about the curiosity of his crew, there was still work to be done. The storm continued on, a rumbling steadily filling the air as The Harpy finally managed to sail through the storm and out of the mist bound island. Law blinked in surprise and awe as a brilliant sunshine blinded him. Raising a hand up to shield his eyes, the pirate gasped as he looked around him.
Once breaking through the mist, the world itself was not a raging storm, decaying into darkness. The open blue sea greeted him below, a high sun beaming down from a clear sky, free of clouds. Turning to look over his shoulder, Law grimaced as he saw the gigantic orb of dark mist swirling rapidly behind. Hm...whatever that was...it was contained to the island...? But how long would that last? Just what had this voyage stirred up among this world filled with plundering raiders and treasure seeking adventurers? A sudden heaviness weighed upon Law's shoulders as he grit his teeth, fixing his gaze back ahead of him, towards the bright horizon ahead.
"Whatever! A pirate takes what he pleases, and doesn't fret the small things!" He had gotten the treasure he had been seeking! That's right! I'm immortal now! His voice was confident, the sentence spoken with his chest. If only he felt as confident as he sounded. The voyage hadn't gone anywhere near according to plan. Law hadn't experienced any Heartless on this world until now, wondering how there could be such a place harboring such darkness. It's just like my world... The thought of that day came back to him. He had been greeted by a large swirling storm of darkness, much like the one he had just escaped from.
His gaze lowered to the wheel, lost in thought. I wonder...why I couldn't escape the first time?
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Mega
Dream Eaters
Posts: 145
Gender: Male
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Post by Mega on May 21, 2019 11:39:43 GMT -5
Charlotte would watch in disbelief of what was going on. This defied logic on so many levels. She hadn't given the kid enough credit. But she was tired, wet, sore, anxious, and had more questions than answers. She'd sleep on it. She tiredly waved up at Law to acknowledge she heard him, her more devilish features sinking back as if they never existed in the first place. Charlotte would pick Neku up, making her way down to the lower decks as the sensation of being watched creeped up her spine. Was probably just her frazzled nerves.
Law would still have the feeling of being watched, and an uncomfortable chill up until the sun broke through. The presence faded, leaving behind a sense of irritation as the sunlight seemed to drive it away. It seeme dlike whatever it was left him alone.
Charlotte would manage to get Neku (and later Strax) into a bed or somewhere else comfortable. "You're all idiots fueled by bravado," she muttered in the nicest way possible. She had her taste of adventure. It had not been at all like she had imagined it, which she should have assumed from the get go. Would she have had a different opinion if she hadn't the luxury that she had growing up? As she went to her own room to collapse and fall asleep, she briefly thought back to that strange sense of being watched. It couldn't be- could it? She thought of her baby sister for whatever reason. Oh well, her adrenaline was gone and her body felt like it weighed a ton. Time for some well deserved beauty sleep!
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Post by therunawaygirl on May 21, 2019 13:48:11 GMT -5
"I heard her! You have to believe me, Neku!"
A voice kept haunting Neku in dreams. Tori. One of the two he last saw, before being thrown out of his world. In a storm much like the one he'd just seen, Neku went blindly chasing after his friend, who claimed to have heard and seen another. A friend they both cherished.
"Tori, knock it off. You're just---" "I'm not lying! I swear I heard her! Mei's here, somewhere, I know it! I have to find her!" "..."
Neku groaned a bit in sleep, shaking a bit. A bit of sweat broke through his forehead, even after all he'd been through. And soon enough, he was awake. He looked around, disoriented, trying to get his bearings together before making a move.
"What...?" he looked around, "This is... Below deck... Right?" Neku groaned once more, holding his head with one hand, "Damn... My head's spinning non-stop..."
Neku then turned a bit to stand up, but didn't. Instead, he remained seated on the bunk bed, looking at the floor. The sheath for his sword was still with him... But his sword wasn't. He probably dropped it on deck after falling unconscious.
"I guess... hearing and seeing her wasn't a dream, either..." he muttered, uneasy, and then sighed, "Where are you two...?"
A few tears showed up in his eyes, but he refused to let them drop. Neku quickly wiped them away, and then laid back on the bed, looking at nothing in particular. Just when would he see his friends again, and when would he be able to return home? He had no idea...
A faint glimmer remained near Neku's sword, which was still on deck due to him not sheathing it back. Mei looked at the sword near her, but one she knew couldn't grab. Her physical form wasn't there... She'd lost it, perhaps forever. But that still didn't bring her down. She looked at Law with curiosity, and chuckled a bit. Standing up, she walked towards him, not really expecting him to see her. But if he did... Then maybe she could ask him something.
"..." Mei closed her eyes, and cupped her hands on her chest, "I really do wish I was stronger... Maybe Neku wouldn't feel so helpless if that was the case..." she muttered, looking out towards the sunny sky with a smile, "At least, I can still see him..."
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Post by hoodwink on May 21, 2019 14:46:55 GMT -5
As Charlotte removed the fainted teenager from the deck, Law was grateful for the respite from all of the rain they had endured. Already his clothes and hair were drying, which he was thankful for as he fumbled into his jacket pocket. For the first time in a moment, the pirate finally had the time to enjoy one of his other true loves in life: rum. As he undid the flask top and tipped some of the contents into his mouth, a horrible taste filled Law's mouth. Almost as though it were full of ash and sand. Spitting and choking profusely, the pirate blinked back tears as he coughed, shaking his head in irritation. "Damned thing went foul on me!" Looking up, the pirate swore he saw something approaching him, only for a moment. It almost seemed like an odd reflection of light...
But then it vanished, almost as though the disturbance had never happened. The pirate blinked in confusion before scowling down at the flask in his hand. "Yeesh...makin' my brain foul too, I'd say..." With a discontent sigh, Law continued to steer The Harpy far away from the cursed place they had visited. Already the large raging storm of darkness that had consumed the island was a faint dot in the distance, one the pirate could hardly see over the horizon line. The airship was so fast and far away already, that Law didn't notice the shift of the sky behind him, the dark swirling clouds that had begun to form and swirl around the large dome of darkness that had engulfed the island they had pillaged.
The mass of swirling darkness continued to twist and writhe in fury as it expanded out, finally bursting as countless creatures of the dark were scattered throughout the world. Unbeknownst to Law, who continued to look ahead as he sailed for Port Royal, the sky above the island had grown a foul dark purple, thunder and lightning swirling around it as the barrier was broken. It seemed whatever had been confined to the island had finally been prodded and poked enough to come out of its harboring. The crew couldn't have possibly known the deeper effects their expedition could have.
Adventurers rarely did.
As the crew sailed safe and sound over the blue ocean and matching sky, the pirate wondered about what other adventures and heists awaited him. There was a smirk on his face as his dazzling blue eyes looked onward to the sky, excited for what awaited them.
After an eventful voyage, The Harpy sailed into the crowded ship port at Port Royal. Having lowered the airship into the sea, Law steered it through the calm waters of the bustling town ahead. Finding a suitable docking spot, the pirate anchored his ship in the water, allowing it to seem like a normal ship. The rotors on it were sure to draw some odd gazes, but the pirate didn't mind. It wasn't as blatantly obvious as flying the damned thing. Satisfied with his docking, the pirate leaped from the raised steering platform onto the main deck, avoiding the stairs to go over the raised banister instead. Landing on the deck, Law noticed the large sword Neku used lying on the deep red wood. Ah... he musta dropped this... Law grinned a bit as he lifted the sword, surprised at its weight. Yeesh...that kid... The pirate chuckled to himself before resting the blade on his shoulder, taking it with him as he made his way down the stairs, cupping a hand around his mouth.
"AHOY, MATEYS!" There was a humorous tone in his voice as he hollered to wake his sleeping and resting companions. "We've arrived, safe and sound!" The pirate was feeling mighty pleased with himself, having moved the chest of gold he had acquired into his captains quarters earlier. Already his coin purse was bulging, and the pirate had hardly made a dent in the glittering treasure. "You all did great! None of you died!" He gave a hearty laugh as he rested the large sword outside of Neku's room, right against the doorway. Afterwards, the pirate rudely knocked loudly on all the doors before making his way back to the stairs to return to the main deck, yelling all the while.
"EVERYONE GATHER! We're getting some much needed celebration and relaxation!" Law beamed. This was his favorite part of treasure hunting, spending some of the loot. He planned to take his crew members out for one last hurrah, as means of celebrating their victory. "There won't be a single tavern around that will be safe! Ha ha!" The pirate waved his hand as he leaped onto the side banister of the airship, keeping balance by hanging onto one of the sail ropes. Gazing out over the bustling town, Law couldn't help but feel at peace. The sun was lower in the sky but still bright, it was later in the afternoon. They could feast and drink and sleep easily tonight. They had all earned it.
None of them could possibly know the turmoil that they had unleashed.
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Mega
Dream Eaters
Posts: 145
Gender: Male
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Post by Mega on May 21, 2019 15:46:46 GMT -5
Surely not. Charlotte had an unusually "dreamless" rest when she stirred from Law yelling at them to get up. To hell with him, she thought going back to sleep. And then she nearly fell out of her bed as she jerked with a start from Law knocking on her door. How could he be so nonchalant after all the trouble they just went through?! She'd light his ship on fire if not for the thought that this would be a great way for him to make up for nearly getting them all killed- or turned into heartless- whichever was worse. Charlotte would emerge, still tired from their endeavors. But she was feeling much better than earlier as she sneezed once. Why was it so cold down here? She didn't think she'd catch a cold, half demon and all.
"You're too energetic for someone who nearly died not too long ago. And did you even sleep at all?" Charlotte questioned him haughtily, covering her mouth as a yawn formed. Sneaky things, yawns. It was much warmer up here. Now that their lives weren't in danger any more, she suddenly felt like something about Law was different. Well besides how she thought one would act after a near death experience, she could tell just by looking at him. But she just couldn't think of why off the top of her head. It was like a nagging sensation at the back of her mind. "No longer living," a thought creeped into her mind.
She blinked and visibly looked confused for a moment before shaking her head. "Did you say something?" She asked Law curiously.
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Post by therunawaygirl on May 21, 2019 16:08:20 GMT -5
Neku looked lost at the floor, trying to make sense in what had happened. That all faded away as Law loudly knocked on the door. Remembering that he and Strax were technically roommates, Neku looked at the other bed. Sure enough... Neku sighed, uneasily.
"Guess someone's not waking up anytime soon..." he mentioned.
With that said and done, Neku pulled himself back up. He went to meet Law and Charlotte back on deck, with a nonchalant walk, like usual. He just didn't want to appear weak, even after the stunt he managed to pull up.
"Feeling any better?" a voice asked -Mei. "H-Huh...?!" Neku looked around, worried, "M-Mei...?"
Again, he'd be making no sense with the others not hearing or seeing her. But she was there, looking at him. Mei smiled, calmly, and walked towards the edge, with Neku seeing her with a lost expression.
"I'm not sure if the others can see me... It's weird, getting used to all this..." Mei admitted uneasily, "But I'll stay here a little longer. Looks like you could use a hand or two." "...Heh..." Neku snickered, looking down, "'Preciate it."
Neku sighed, and then looked at the two adults on deck. He couldn't help but smirk uneasily at them. It was somewhat reassuring that they were concered about him before, but he wouldn't show it. Instead, he'd just be his usual self -a sarcastic self.
"...Heh... Ain't this a happy reunion..." he muttered, smirking a bit.
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Post by hoodwink on May 21, 2019 17:00:20 GMT -5
As most of his crew began to form on deck, Strax's voice rang within Law's mind. -"I'll be resting more...I haven't fully recovered yet."- It seemed that the werewolf had pushed himself much too far, facing off against the Captain Heartless by himself. Sigh...pretty much all of this crew is reckless... A smile came to his lips as Charlotte's voice rang out. "You're too energetic for someone who nearly died not too long ago. And did you even sleep at all?" Her tone caused him to laugh merrily as he brandished a broad smile at the sleepy woman, his gold tooth flashing. "Not at all! Why, I feel better than ever!" Somehow, the statement was true. Despite all of the fighting and staying up to fly throughout the day, Law didn't feel tired at all. His mind felt sharp, alert, and his vigor was much in tact.
"There's never rest for the wicked, love~" He laughed again before hearing Charlotte's question. "What? Yes, Charlotte, I've been talking this whole time! Have you not been paying attention?" The pirate wore a grief stricken expression as he fanned a hand over his brow and his other to his chest, feigning heartache. "You're distractedness wounds me!" It seemed the pirate was in high spirits, despite the oddities occurring with himself. He was just excited for some food and drink. Weird...I don't feel hungry, though... The thought escaped him as Neku emerged on deck, seemingly having a conversation with someone Law couldn't see.
"Shit...seems Neku hit his head harder than I thought..." The pirate groaned, resting his hands on his hips. One hand rested on the handle of the weapon holstered on his hip. Old habits died hard. "Just how are we supposed to celebrate with everyone either passing out or going crazy?!" Law threw up his hands as he turned away from the two, heading towards the side of the ship where his ramp had stretched down to the docks. "I, for one, am going to the nearest pub! I'm ready for a feast!" His excitement reached his eyes, brimming and shining blue with limitless possibilities. He was a very rich man now, after all.
Rich and immortal. Life couldn't be sweeter~ The pirate couldn't remember a time he had felt this happy. Even while drinking. His mind flashed to the liquor in his flask, which had somehow gone sour. He hadn't ever seen rum do that. That damned island probably messed it up... He was definitely excited to get some liquor in him. It had been a very long two days, in his opinion. He headed off of the docked airship and through the crowded docks, walking with an extra pep in his step as he looked around for the nearest tavern. He hoped the crew members would follow, though refused to look back over his shoulder.
He did have the pride of a Captain, after all.
Finding a lively tavern warm with light and the din of conversation, Law looked up at the sky. It was a deep orange and red. The sun was beginning to set. Law felt a smile creep into his lips, appreciating the coming evening. Walking into the tavern, the pirate shouted out to the barkeep for three rounds as he found an empty table for them to sit. "You lot can get whatever you want. It's on me!" He was excited to burn the coins in his purse.
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Mega
Dream Eaters
Posts: 145
Gender: Male
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Post by Mega on May 23, 2019 18:30:17 GMT -5
"Better not have gotten cursed from that island..." Charlotte muttered under her breath as Neku came up and seemed to be talking to himself. And Strax must have still been exhausted since last night. "Be that as it may, you definitely owe it to us all to treat us," Charlotte said putting the entire matter of hearing a weird voice behind her. Seemed like Strax would be staying in bed. Unlike Neku who seemed to be playing it up as no big deal. All men couldn't be this dense right? Neku was still young as a matter of fact! Law seemed to be lost in his own little world at the moment as he headed off, as if expecting them to follow.
"How about we lighten his pockets?" She smirked to Neku before finally following after Law. She was definitely going to follow up on that. But she would lag behind Law enough for Neku to follow after her as she followed after Law. "Good. Because I am famished for some hospitality," she grinned wickedly at Law as she took her seat. A fool and his money would soon part ways.
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Post by therunawaygirl on May 24, 2019 14:33:29 GMT -5
Neku tucked his hands in his pockets, hearing Law talk behind his back. He couldn't help but laugh a bit though. Mei also laughed a bit uneasily, since both of them knew that the others couldn't see her. Maybe they should keep it down for a while...
At the mention of lightening Law's pockets, Neku laughed. Charlotte really did amuse him, in that regard. But Law was the one to set the offer to begin with, so why not oblige?
"Can't really say no if the other's payin', can I?" he asked back, chuckling.
Neku then followed Law down the airship to the tavern. The ambiance was somewhat familiar now, but maybe it was because of the time spent in that world altogether. He couldn't quite point out why that was the case, though... Mei patted his shoulder, and simply smiled, reassuring Neku a bit.
If she was there, albeit not physically, then Neku had no need to worry.
"So? What exactly was that 'feast' you were plannin', cap?" Neku asked teasing, "Not that I'm too hungry, but I am curious." "You're not hungry after that, really, Neku? Mei asked, amused.
Neku just smiled uneasily, not really wanting to reply to her question. Instead, he just listened to what the others were going to say. If anything, he didn't mind what they'd order, so long as it wasn't alcohol. After all, he was still a teen.
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Post by hoodwink on May 27, 2019 16:47:47 GMT -5
As the other two took their seats, a worker of the busy tavern brought over a platter of three glasses for them. One was a short and stout glass, filled with a dark amber liquor, which Law immediately reached for gluttonously before the worker even removed the first cup. As they slid it across the table to Neku, the teen would find it was a fruity beverage made from local ingredients of the islands. "Don't worry, it's not alcohol." Law reassured Neku with a smirk. He knew the kid was a stickler for certain things. For Charlotte the worker brought over a thin, medium sized glass, which was filled with a honey colored liquor with a shining amber on top. Reaching over, the worker used a match to light the drink on fire, causing a flash of heat to erupt from the cup. The pirate laughed heartily. "I figured it suited you, Charlotte~"
It seemed Law was certainly in high spirits, as his face was alight with a boyish delight as his blue eyes sparkled. Calling over the worker, Law slipped a few of the Aztec coins into their pockets as he talked into their ear, cupping his mouth so that the others couldn't hear. He had mentioned a feast, after all. For a moment, the worker jolted back in surprise, stuttering as they spoke. "R-really?! I-is that r-really necessary?" Law scowled at the worker, causing them to simply nod their head before hurrying away from the table with a "Right, sir!" As the pirate went to lift his own drink to his lips, Charlotte flashed him a look that caused him to jolt upright in his chair. "Good. Because I am famished for some hospitality." That devilish look could only mean one thing! She's plotting to rob me!
The pirate barked out another laugh, slapping the table as he put his cup down, pointing at the woman with a wicked grin. "Ha! That's the spirit of a pirate talking!" They were all a crew. Though many of them came from different walks of life, Law had seen all of their worth throughout their journey. These were the people he knew he could trust his back to. Well...for the most part...they are rather reckless, though... His heart was light, turning to Neku as he heard the teen's voice over the din of the busy tavern. "So? What exactly was that 'feast' you were planning, cap? Not that I'm too hungry, but I am curious." For a moment, Law looked dumbfounded, blinking a few times at Neku before screwing his face up in a look that might remind one of a scolding yet concerned elder. "To hell with that!" Law pointed at Neku with a determined look. "You'll eat, damn it! There's no way you don't need food after doing all of that!"
Crossing his arms a bit, Law gave an annoyed Tch! as he looked the other way, almost sulkily. For a moment, the pirate mumbled to himself, resting a hand on his forehead with a sigh. "Kids these days..." Regaining himself, the pirate flashed a gold toothed grin at the young mercenary and the devilish woman at his table. "There'll be something for everyone, no matter what kinda stuff you like!" Finally, the pirate lifted his glass in the air towards the middle of the table. "Cheers! You lot did a fantastic job with the s&^t show that all was! Ha ha!" Laughing heartily, the pirate tipped back his glass to swig the rich rum that awaited him. The moment the liquor hit his tongue, the foul taste of ash entered his mouth, causing him to choke and sputter for a moment, grabbing at his throat. Spitting the liquor out onto the floor beside him, the pirate had a confused and furious look on his face as he wiped his mouth with his free hand. "The hell did that trash put in my drink?!"
Slamming the cup onto the table, Law stood from his chair, causing it to skid back loudly behind him, turning a few heads in the tavern. "The food'll take a second...I'll be right back..." His voice was more of a growl as a furious scowl emerged on the pirates face. Law made his way from the table towards the bar. He was in no mood for these shenanigans. Not one bit.
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Mega
Dream Eaters
Posts: 145
Gender: Male
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Post by Mega on Jun 5, 2019 11:39:58 GMT -5
Charotte was as always, out of place in this joint. And it was only recently that she was really able to go out and explore on her own. This was more her sister's thing, she remembered some tales that started with a brawl breaking out, and her throwing everyone involved over her shoulders into a table- she called it "suplexing." Apparently it was all in good fun but she couldn't fathom why someone would find the idea of getting broken bones, or a bloodied nose "fun." She briefly remembered one of the few times she had gone out with her sister and instantly felt a chill. Her sister looked like a completely different person once a brawl broke out- over Charlotte of all things, which was flattering in her mind. But she instantly thought better of being on the recieving end of those eyes of hers.
She was brought out of her thoughts as drinks started to arrive. She blushed slightly with a pleasant smile when he said it suited her. This was more what she was used to- minus the third wheel. Charlotte didn't wait too long for the fire to die down, elegantly taking a sip. She was going to enjoy this as long as she could. "It'll do~" she said coyly, clearly just messing around with him.
"Probably mostly sea food if I had to guess. It's a port town after all," Charlotte commented to Neku. It was hard to be pessimistic with the drink in her hands, and compared to what they all had to deal with. Whatever it was, she'd be looking forward to it. She was however surprised by Law suddenly spitting his drink out after they toasted. Was it really that bad? Hers was fine. She glanced at Neku for a second opinion before Law excused himself and headed to the bar. Charlotte wasn't an expert on business. But it seemed conter-intuitive to give your customers poor product. And surely it would have been rectified by the server after Law generously tipped him.
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Post by therunawaygirl on Jun 6, 2019 17:22:58 GMT -5
Neku found himself laughing. Loudly. Law's comment, plus Mei's previous tease, were just enough to break the tension within him. He found himself laughing so hard, he began to cry a bit.
"Okay, okay!" he said, wiping off the tears, "I'll eat something. Thank god I ain't a picky eater..." "Not like you had a choice, anyways..." Mei teased once more.
Neku grabbed his drink, and raised it high up in the air with a smirk. Alongside Law, he shouted a cheer before drinking. Sweet, and tropical... Sorta nostalgic, really. After giving it a sip, Neku lowered the cup down, and smiled. Mei also smiled, calmly. At least, he wasn't too depressed over what had happened... In fact, one could say he was grateful.
"Thanks for the---" "Pfffft"
Neku perked up, as he saw Law spit out his own drink. In confusion, Neku frowned as the sky pirate began to shout about his drink, and how the waiter somehow put something inside. But what? For him to spit liquor like that...
As Law left to meet with said waiter, Neku reached over to his cup. Curious, Mei moved towards him, sitting where Law was seated, and looked at Neku with curiosity.
"Hmm..." Neku sniffed a bit, and then gave it a light taste, "...Tastes like alcohol to me..." "You think something's off?" Mei asked. "I mean... He doesn't look like the guy who'd go around without a drink in hand... But I wonder why..." "...What do you think happened?" "Beats me, but Imma go find out."
With that, Neku jumped from his seat after Law, hoping to at least be able to avoid conflict. Sword safely in his sheath, he at least held a weapon to defend himself. And, not to brag, but Neku considered himself quite fast even with the weapon's weight. If Law wanted to get serious, then he'd have to fight Neku, without holding back.
"Oi, Law! Wait up!" he shouted.
Mei, on the other hand, remained by Charlotte's side, even if she couldn't see her. Worried, she looked back at Law's drink, and looked inside. Seeing nothing wrong with it, she began to wonder a bit. Why did he spit it out?
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Post by hoodwink on Jun 11, 2019 15:14:41 GMT -5
Over the general din from the crowded tavern, if one were paying attention, the sounds of shouting and gunfire could be heard faintly from outside. It seemed most patrons within the communal watering hole were immersed in their own doings, as none really seemed to notice or turn a head. Law was one of these patrons, pushing his way through the crowded eatery, making his way to the bar with a scowl on his face. ”The dolt! I’ll castrate ‘im!” The pirate was grumbling to himself, his heavily ringed left hand resting on the holster of the long gun on his hip. The hell did that bastard do to my drink?! Ignoring the annoyed or angry grunts from those he pushed out of the way, Law finally managed to make his way to the crowded bar.
Many of the wooden stools were filled, some customers standing around those sitting, in order to be heard and seen by the two barkeeps. Said barkeeps were busy rushing through the crowded bar, passing an assortment of drinks one way or another. ”Oi! Barkeep!” Just as Law began to shout out angrily to the man that had served him, the pirate heard Neku’s voice over the general din of the tavern. ”Oi, Law! Wait up!” Looking over his shoulder, he saw the young mercenary making his way through the crowd towards him. ”Oh, great…they messed up the kid’s order, too!” Growling to himself yet again, Law shouted out as a nearby customer pushed past him, stealing his spot at the bar.
”Aye, you piece of sh-“ As the pirate began to grab at the stranger’s shoulder, readying his free hand in a fist, a patron near the window of the tavern screamed as the glass was broken. Flying through the window was a Port Royal guard, adorned in the typical colors of red and blue that government officials wore. The paddings on their shoulder were torn, the front of their uniform mangled and destroyed from what looked like claws. Forcing themselves upright, a loud snap was heard as their long gunpowder rifle was revealed to be broken underneath them.
Overall, the soldier seemed to be in poor shape. They were bleeding from several gashes that had gotten through their uniform, sweat pouring down their face, adorned with crazed and wild eyes. Clutching one arm, which must have been broken, the tavern had grown silent in the sudden commotion. All eyes had fallen to the soldier who had barreled through the window, crashing over the table of the nearby patrons who had been enjoying a few rounds and food, collapsing onto the floor. ”R-run! ALL OF YOU! S-sh-SHADOWS!” Just as suddenly as they had entered the tavern, the soldier was shouting, rushing to the nearest table of people as they clutched and groped at anything nearby.
”T-they came a-after we s-s-saw the clouds!” Before any in the tavern could make sense of what was happening, the door to the crowded eatery burst open, one soldier in a much better state than their comrade entered while two others patrolled the door. ”Attention, citizens!” The soldier was an older man, tall with a dark and weathered face, lined with wrinkles and scars that showed their experience. Looking over, the stern and composed soldier glanced over to see the wounded man who had been hurtled through the window. ”You should be ashamed of yourself, soldier. ensuing panic upon the public like a maniac!" The wounded soldier's face turned red as they looked at the floor. It seemed they were indeed ashamed of themselves. With a stern cough, the older soldier resumed his attention to the crowd. His voice was steady, deep, spoken with the chest. "There are monsters attacking the Port! All able bodied men, to the docks! Women and children are being escorted safely by soldiers!” The tavern erupted with noise. Some of it was panic, though there were also shouts of excitement mingled into the crowd as many hardy sea faring men rose with their guns or swords drawn.
Instantly the room surged as many crowded for the door, whether to escape or fight. The older soldier that had attempted to make order was lost in the general din, being jostled and pushed out of the way by the crowd. The soldiers at the door attempted to gather order in the exit, their valiant efforts going to waste on the crazed citizens. Law had already began to make his way for the door when the wounded soldier had mentioned ‘shadows’. The Heartless are here now?! The Port had been a place of shelter and safety. What had made it so that the darkness had reached even these waters? The pirate didn’t bother to shout to his companions, he knew his voice would be lost in the chaos.
They’re smart…and capable. Weaving his way through the crowded and panicked tavern with a surprising expertise, the pirate managed his way out of the tavern, hoping his companions would eventually escape and find him. There was a grimace on his face. He had witnessed the Immortality he had gained proving useless against the Heartless. He would have to guard his heart carefully. Entering the outside world, Law was greeted with the sight of many soldiers guiding a large group of women and children through the small city, heading deeper towards the guard barracks. Many other men rushed towards the docks, whatever weapons they owned or could find in their hands. The distant sound of gunfire and steel clashing reached the pirate's ears, towards the sound of the tide.
Luckily, it seemed the Heartless hadn't made their way into the heart of the city yet. We'll have to contain them at the docks! There was a fire burning in Law's heart, thinking of The Harpy as he began to run in the direction of the docks, winding through the bustling cobblestone streets, mingling with the crowd of armed men rushing towards the foe. They better not be touching my ship!
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Mega
Dream Eaters
Posts: 145
Gender: Male
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Post by Mega on Jun 13, 2019 9:29:53 GMT -5
Charlotte likewise examined Law's drink curiously after Neku and reached the same conclusion. Something had been amiss ever since they left that god-forsaken island. She nodded to Neku as he left to catch up to Law and try to diffuse the situation before it escalated. If there was a way they could avoid a bar brawl ensuing she'd be grateful when suddenly, a soldier suddenly crashed through a window. Heartless were here? Well, there were people here. And the creatures attacked people for their hearts, so it made sense. "No rest for the wicked as they say," she mused finishing the rest of her drink.
She got up as the bar erupted into hysteria, people trying to get out and to safety from The Heartless. They were gonna pay for ruining her evening, and keeping her from making Law spend most of his ill-gotten gains making it up to her. It was easy to slip out in the chaos and avoid the awkward situation of being escorted to safety because of her being a lady. Once she was outside she barely caught sight of Law running towards the docks- probably for fear of his ship. His wonderful simplicity was a breath of fresh air. But it was the sky that caught her attention for the moment. There were dark shapes zipping and fluttering in giant flocks of wings and eyes. They were too far for her to make out any details, and she assumed they to be heartless as they seemed to circle the town.
Until she started seeing the yellow eyes watching her from the undersides of rooves. They were very small, barely larger then a grown man's head and covering themselves with bat-like wings, a singular large (for their body atleast) yellow eye peering out. The tiny creatures perched themselves akin to bats upside down where they could and watched. She recognized them and wondered why Shadelings were here of all places. But wait- that was a good thing- right? It suddenly dawned on her that she had lost sight of Neku. But he probably heard them say to go to the docks so he should be fine. She ignored the piercing stares of the Shadelings watching her as she ran toward the docks.
Law likewise would also be watched, albeit he seemed to be drawing more onlookers as a small flock of the creatures would be circling overhead. Until a shot rang off once in awhile and dispersed them. But that's all the shots seemed to do, frighten them for a moment and make them scatter before they flocked back together and followed him. And the largest flock of them seemed to be circling overhead around the docks.
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