|
Post by hoodwink on Feb 7, 2021 12:21:52 GMT -5
Tori’s Cross-up Magic would succeed in repelling the Darkball’s attack, blasting it and its gnashing maw backwards and into the stream below. Bursting into dark vapor as it collided with the water and rocks, a heart escaped into the coming morning as the group flew onwards through the forest. With Jake’s cutlass lashing out as he soared above the other pirates and Tori’s powerful attacks as she swooped on the remaining Air Pirates, the crew would soon find their path undisturbed, the Heartless vanquished. ”Good job, everyone!” Cheering, Izzy seemed upbeat as she twirled through the air, clapping her hands happily. ”Don’t celebrate just yet, Izzy…” Jake grimaced as he flew, gripping onto his captain’s hat to ensure it didn’t blow off in the breeze. ”Somethin’ feels off, in the forests…” It seemed though he wasn’t as well-versed as Tori in such matters, he had a minor sense to the dark presence the girl felt.
Glancing into the trees on both sides of them, the young captain’s skeptical and wary gaze was met only by the murky green of the forest as the morning sun finally finished rising and began to reflect all the wet dew and early mists. ”We’re almost there!” Cubby shouted out eagerly, gesturing to the shell map in their hands as they flew. Glancing at Tori over his shoulder, Jake shouted out to make sure she could hear him. ”The Fairies protect their home with powerful magic. If any o’ those monsters show up, we gotta get rid of ‘em, or we won’t be able to enter!” Thankfully, unbeknownst to the pirate crew, what Heartless were lurking wouldn’t be drawn to the cluster of hearts soaring over the stream. Instead, they were drawn to the powerful emotions emitting from two unseen—deeper in the thick of green.
Yellow eyes peered out from the waning shadows as morning pierced through leafy tree tops, illuminating the forest below in dim light. Shing! CLAT! Parrying yet another spear jab, Henoke grit his teeth and grunted in effort as he forced the long weapon up, exposing the Tribe Leader’s bare ribs as he aimed to strike with a powerful slash. THUNK! Keyblade met poleshaft as his weapon ricocheted backwards, a quiet thrummmm emitting from the flexible material of the spear pole as the teen was left open wide. ”Urk!” Reeling himself back as much as he could, Henoke nearly lost his footing as he backpedaled, a free hand raised to the wound on his left shoulder. It burned. Darkness looking almost like a black fire lingered on the cut, which seeped blood into his jacket and shirt, smoldering and smoking as it sizzled down with a sting.
Tch—that darkness ain't just for show… Just a graze had caused a deep wound, thanks to the added aura. It wasn’t anything too severe for Henoke though, who was used to getting rather beat up in most battles he faced. If anything, the boy’s gaze had a fiery determination in them as his face reddened a bit, his body tensing into a battle stance as he watched the Heartless finally emerge. ”Heh, figures you wouldn’t fight fair.”
”We’re here! In there!” Soaring over the stream, Cubby shouted out with glee and pointed at a section of the forest to their left—slightly away from the direction Tori would be able to sense that ‘dark presence’ from before. Breaking from the path of the stream, the crew would fly between the thick trees that seemed stronger and healthier than any others in the forest beforehand. It seemed where they were was most likely the ‘heart’ of the forest, as the overgrowth ran rampant while lush vines, moss and ground plants littered the trees between. Without having been able to fly, the group would have surely eaten up most of the day simply trying to clear a walkable path, in this section. It wasn’t until the group came upon another small stream that would signal a change in direction.
”This way!” Being their main guide from here on, Cubby led them, following Marina’s map with an expert eye. "Y’know, things are starting to look familiar…” Izzy contemplated aloud, her eyes falling over the scenery around them as they flew with a thoughtful expression. ”Izzy’s always been close with the Fairies.” Jake explained over his shoulder to Tori. ”The whole reason we even got this connection is ‘cause she rescued a Fairy our first time here.” It seemed without Izzy, they wouldn’t have leeway with the Fairies, being outsiders originally. ”Here it is!” This time, Izzy was the one that shouted out, bolting ahead of the group as the small stream collected into a calm and quiet small pond of sorts in the forest. In the heart of a small clearing surrounded by large and thick trees, as well as large mushrooms, overgrowth and vines, the pond was rimmed with beautiful stones that glimmered in the early sun.
Other than the pond, though, as well as the occasional sound of small forest critters, there didn’t seem to be anything there. ”Finally!” Cubby cheered, pumping a fist while landing on the ground near the small pond. ”Heh, I knew we’d make it!” Jake seemed as confident as ever. Regardless of their attitudes though, it truly did seem like a normal and empty clearing. What was so special about a small pond? ”Oh, I’m so excited to see them all again!” Izzy landed near Cubby, already rushing towards the water. ”Wait!” Jake shouted out, glancing around the forest for a moment, causing Izzy to pause sheepishly. ”Alright…I think the coast’s clear…” Looking over to Tori, the young captain landed beside the others on the ground with a grin.
”Well, Tori? Ya ready to meet the Fairies?” Izzy was the first to showcase how one would necessarily do that. Rushing forward, the girl shouted out a quick ”Look out!” before splashing! into the pond! Disturbing the calm water and causing it to ripple, the girl was lost to sight for a moment. No bubbles emerged as the waves calmed down. Izzy was gone. ”Just hold your breath and you’ll be fine!” Cubby reassured Tori before jumping in himself with another SPLASH! Just like Izzy, the younger pirate didn’t return either, disappearing after having disappeared in the small pond. Tipping his captain's hat with a somewhat playful smirk, Jake winked at Tori before walking towards the pond himself.
”See ya on the other side.” With a quick hop into the water, the boy disappeared, leaving Tori alone in the clearing.
|
|
|
Post by therunawaygirl on Feb 8, 2021 3:40:31 GMT -5
With the Heartless now gone, Tori grimaced, looking over her shoulder towards the forest. Now that the closer threat was gone, she could still feel the one lurking a bit further in, but she wasn’t going to abandon the pirates in exchange for chasing after the darkness waiting nearby. Jake seemed to be in the same mind-set, but perhaps the young captain didn’t understand the feeling as well as Tori did. Still, he seemed wary, obviously on edge because of it.
It seemed they were close to their destination though, according to Cubby. Surrounded by the early mist and faint humidity, the forest seemed different from before —and felt different, for obvious reasons. The darkness shifted, moving away from them and towards an unknown location. Wherever that was…
Tori had a really bad feeling about it.
Tori followed the crew over the stream, wondering just how much longer it would take before arriving. With vibrant vegetation, healthy to look at and much brighter of life, the heart of the forest seemed like a completely different area —like it wasn’t even part of Neverland to begin with.
”Izzy’s always been close with the Fairies.” Explaining how Izzy, out of the three, seemed to recognize the place better, Tori nodded alongside Jake’s explanation. It seemed fitting that the girl of the crew had a better relation with the Fairies, establishing a strong friendship after saving one of them when they had first arrived —all the way back then.
In a sense, Tori didn’t see it unlikely, seeing Izzy’s overall demeanor —a small, shining light, much like the rest of the crew. A child’s heart, and all that, despite their age.
How long had it been, since she last came across that thought?
”Here it is!” Seeing Izzy rush forward, Tori chased after, only to arrive at a clearing in the forest. At the center was a pond, circular in shape with stones rimming the edges, creating a rather mystifying scenery. The crew was excited, and with good reasons, really —after all, it seemed like it had been long since they last saw the Fairies.
Turning towards Jake as he shouted, Tori sighed, realizing he was worried about the Heartless tailing them to wherever the Fairies were at. She shook her head, wanting to reassure the captain that it wasn’t necessary to worry.
“They’re drawn to something else —the fact that they stopped chasing after us says as much” the girl explained, “For now, it’ll be okay. If they do show up, though, well… We can take care of them, easily.”
She watched at the sidelines, wondering just where they were supposed to head towards next. It seemed like a dead end, in her eyes —while the clearing was one of fantasy, no other elements stood out for her. It wasn’t until she saw Izzy and Cubby jumping into the pond, disappearing soon after. ”See ya on the other side.” The girl was left dumbstruck, alone at the edge of the pond with all 3 pirates having jumped in and not appearing. Tori sighed, an uneasy smile written in her expression as she stepped forward.
How much weirder would things be?
“Well… I don’t lose anything by trying, do I?”
The girl turned slightly around, a grimace in her eyes as she wondered just what the darkness lurking nearby was. It felt ominous, chilly… Murderous was even a word she’d use to describe it. Whatever it was, it wasn’t normal —but for the time being, there were other things to focus on.
Having taken a few steps back, facing now the pond, Tori rushed forward, diving into the pond with a minimal splash, holding her breath as the came in contact with the water. She could only wonder what would await, further ahead…
|
|
|
Post by hoodwink on Feb 8, 2021 13:12:04 GMT -5
Surfacing from the water—Tori would find herself dry as she popped out from the pond and onto the grassy forest floor. Around here was the same clearing as before—but far more lively and full. Gigantic Mushrooms loomed all around, some being fashioned into makeshift homes. Countless other small make-shift homes littered the forest around them, some crafted from discarded items like teapots, buckets, etc. while others were formed from the more natural forest environment using mushrooms, branches and roots. All around was what sounded almost like ringing bells and chimes—countless winged beings fluttering throughout the forest, excited at the arrival of their visitors. ”Oh, hello, everyone!” Izzy beamed as countless small fairies swarmed around her, their iridescent wings shimmering with a familiar glittering dust. The fairies were indeed what appeared like incredibly small people—women clad in clothing of leaves, forestry and other natural resources. All were distinctly different, moving far too quickly for one to take quite a good look at them yet.
”Ha ha! Calm down, calm down!” Some had already flown away from the girl, fluttering around Cubby and Jake alike with familiarity. ”What’re they sayin’, Izzy?” The young captain raised a brow at a few of the fairies floating around them, the sounds of bells and chimes louder and more consistent—though the sound was far from deafening. If anything, it was still surprisingly subtle. ”They can’t believe how much we’ve all grown!” With a somewhat sheepish smile, Izzy chuckled while some fairies made their way towards Tori. ”That’s our new friend, Tori!” The fairies that had come near the teen had looks of intrigue on their tiny faces—some poking and prodding as though to investigate while others played with hair and tickled cheeks. Others were more reserved, smiling while giving a friendly wave as bell chimes seemed to ring throughout the forest.
”Pirates?! What’re you doin’ here?!” A sudden voice cut through the chime sounds as Rabbit emerged from deeper within the forests surrounding the pond. Fox and Skunk were in tow, surprised and skeptical looks on their faces as fairies swarmed around them in haste. ”Huh? What’re they sayin’, Skunk?” Giving the youngest of the group a quizzical look, Fox crossed their arms and eyed the pirate crew warily. ”They’re saying…they’re friends?” Skunk seemed somewhat incredulous himself, though he repeated what the Fairies said to him verbatim. ”Yeah, right!” Pointing at Tori with an angry look, Rabbit puffed up. ”We saw her fight Henoke! They’re all a bunch’a bad guys!” Jake shouted out indignantly, shaking a fist while Izzy and a few Fairies worked on calming him down. ”Aww, coconuts…” Cubby seemed more than nervous, glancing down at their boots with uncertainty as they heard the arguments commence.
”Please, give us a chance to explain ourselves!” Izzy had worked on getting Jake subdued, pleading with the few Lost Boys that had emerged. Perhaps it was the earnest look on the pirate’s face, the Fairies swarming around them and urging them to be peaceful, or something else—but after a moment of rowdy discourse, the three quieted down. ”Tch—I don’t buy it.” Still skeptical, Rabbit eyed them all with suspicion. ”Well, let’s hear them out, for now.” Skunk seemed more level headed, being able to hear the Fairies directly. Glancing at Tori, the young Lost Boy tapped their chin thoughtfully. ”Let’s start there. When we first met you, you were with Henoke, saying you weren't pirates. Now you show up with a pirate crew, after fighting with him." Narrowing his eyes a bit, it seemed just because Skunk was willing to listen, didn't mean he wouldn't be critical. "So, why did you fight with Henoke? It's obvious how it looks like you just double-crossed him, right?”
The hell’s goin’ on?! Rolling out of the way of a swiping cutlass from a Pirate Heartless, Henoke rose with an upward slash from his Keyblade towards the nearest Yellow Opera. Skoooom! A Barrel Spider exploded at the tip of the Tribe Leader’s spear, bursting and erupting in flames of darkness as it was devoured by a superior power. ”Why’re they attackin' you?!” At his wits end, the teen shouted out at the bear-faced man, completely at a loss in regards to the chaos erupting around them. Once emerging from the forest, the Heartless had attacked both Henoke as well as the Tribe Leader. Though the teen wielding the Keyblade had attracted more attention, it seemed the power the Tribe Leader had acquired was causing some to divert. ”Did you think these demons were my doing?” With a cold tone, the man tore through yet another enemy with surprising speed and finesse.
Clearly, even before the odd dark powers they used had emerged, they’d been a capable warrior. ”What?! Then why'd they show up when you got here?!” Shouting out with clear disbelief and mistrust, Henoke nearly staggered as he was forced back to attention by a swooping Air Pirate. "I could ask the same of you." Regardless of his mistrust, there was one fact: the Tribe Leader was indeed fighting the Heartless. Mercilessly so. Is he like Yuto?! He had met a friend on another world once, that had used the powers of the darkness against the Heartless as well. It was easier to trust someone friendly, though. ”You’re doing the same thing!” Tori’s word’s flooded his thoughts for a moment—causing him to scowl and grit his teeth as he slashed out at the enemies with his Keyblade. Damn it! Was she right?! Had he misjudged the Tribe Leader during their first run in, due to his anger at the circumstances?
Tch—no way! That asshole took us prisoner! Trying to justify his own faults, the teen focused on the anger boiling up in him, threatening to open its maw once more. Though the teen did believe not everyone that may use the darkness was inherently bad, he also didn't believe that just because one fought the Heartless meant they were inherently good, either. Heartless weren't on anyones side, after all. "Shut up! Once I'm done with 'em, your next!" Not once did the hot-headed teen think that perhaps, due to accounts of his own, their collision had been wrought on the fact he'd hardly cared to listen for the rules of this world before diving in head first.
|
|
|
Post by therunawaygirl on Feb 8, 2021 16:02:03 GMT -5
The water dive would be cut short, much for Tori’s shock —immediately dropping onto solid ground, not a single piece of her attire wet from having dived into the pond. She looked around, noting the much livelier clearing, compared to the last one. If the previous one was already full of life, there weren’t enough words to describe just how alive the clearing now felt —something Tori feasted with eager eyes, noting how brightly the light shone.
Countless chimes and bells brought her attention back, noticing the Fairies first swarming Izzy with amicable demeanors and friendly salutes, with the young pirate girl translating to the rest. The ringing of chimes reminded her of something, as the Fairies were introduced to her —yet the memory was so far off, that Tori couldn’t exactly pinpoint what was happening inside her heart, yet it seemed to cheer in joy as the Fairies poked and investigated the newcomer.
The only thing that followed was laughter, the girl joyfully allowing them to do as pleased. How long had it been, since she last felt this warmth of the light?
”Pirates?! What’re you doin’ here?!” The peace was quickly brought to and end, with Tori turning around as the sudden voice echoed throughout the clearing. Rabbit, Fox and Skunk were there, looking with expected expressions. The Fairies were quick to take action, swarming them and explaining the situation —not that the Lost Boys would believe the tale.
Raising one hand as to stop Jake from interfering, Tori’s gaze was a strong one as she looked at the Lost Boys, walking a few steps towards them without any hint of hostility. She shared the sentiment with Izzy —it was about time they broke the façade. She glanced over towards Jake, an amused look in her lips as she sighed.
“That short-temper’s going to get you someday, Jake” she berated with a smile, “…I was going to ask you to break the façade by now, so relax already.”
She turned towards Skunk, as he began to ask about their first meeting, and the latest one. Tori’s smirk grew a little, seeing how sharp the kid was —obviously, the fact that she fought Henoke 1 on 1 was an understandable double-cross, when she’d stated before that she wasn’t a pirate, only to then team up with them later on.
Truthfully, she hadn’t expected a kid, one much younger than Henoke, to make such questions —but the thought only made her more amused.
“You’re sharp, for a kid” she admitted, “I could even say you saw right through me… But there is one thing you’re overlooking.”
Her arms now crossed, Tori raised one finger with confidence, wanting to point out what Skunk had missed when making his assumptions. Without the need to hide or act any longer, it seemed the girl was willing to explain what had transpired back at the Swamps, as well as the side the pirates had taken in the whole ordeal.
Already knowing one side of the story, it was time to know the other one.
“I have my reasons for fighting Henoke —but they’re not with the intent of betraying him” she explained thoroughly, “What exactly it is, I won’t disclose it. Regardless, there’s one thing you need to understand, and that’s the fact that he attacked first, under the impression that we were the reason behind the fighting that was going on at the swamps.”
“The reason I teamed up with this crew” she turned back towards the three, a confident smile in her expression as she spoke, “Is because they helped me first, back when we got separated, at the beach. Since then, we’ve been going around, trying to figure out the reason why those monsters are here in the first place, all while fighting them. So” Tori’s gaze grew firm, “If you’re truly going to paint us as the bad guys, then I won’t hesitate to act that way, in order to defend them and their desires —but what I’m telling you now is the absolute truth. We’re not the villains in this whole ordeal.”
|
|
|
Post by hoodwink on Feb 8, 2021 17:45:00 GMT -5
”You’re sharp, for a kid.” Tori’s initial retort caused Skunk to scowl with mild embarrassment. Despite the indignation, the boy was quiet while the teen explained the true cause of the fighting, as well as her position with Jake and his crew. ”Since then, we’ve been going around, trying to figure out the reason why those monsters are here in the first place,” Izzy and Cubby nodded sagely, while Jake merely crossed his arms and sighed. ”We’re not the villains in this whole ordeal.” Fox stroked their chin in thought, seemingly contemplating the teen’s words while Rabbit grumbled a bit and kicked at the forest floor. ”Tch—if you’re not that bad guys, then who is?!” Finally showing their lack of patience, the bravest of the Lost Boys tugged at the rabbit ears on the furs he wore in confusion. ”That’s what we’re all trying to figure out, by the looks of it…” Glancing over at Skunk, Fox raised a brow. ”What’d’ya think, Skunk? She telling the truth?” The Fairies had listened as well, nodding and chiming in agreement after having heard the piece.
”Yeah…we’re in the Fairies home, after all.” Sighing in resignation, the youngest of the troupe seemed to believe Tori’s words. ”We know you guys aren’t bad, either.” Izzy offered a friendly smile their way, wanting to clear up any misconceptions. ”You’ve all been fighting hard to protect Neverland, too, haven’t you?” The sudden recognition seemed to catch the Lost Boys off guard, clearly used to being treated more as a nuisance by most rather than serious protectors. ”That’s right! None of us can be the bad guys, if we’re with the Fairies now!” Cubby perked up, seemingly having thought of the realization after having heard everything. ”Duh. That’s what I’ve been tellin’ ‘em all this ti—“ Grunting as Izzy stomped on the toe of his boot, the young captain bit his tongue—able to take the hint. "That’s right. We came here because we need the Fairies magic to help us protect the forest!”
Seemingly won over suddenly, Rabbit puffed out their chest in pride. ”So—you must be after the same thing then?” Flashing a quizzical look at the crew, Skunk smirked as the faces of each pirate revealed the answer. ”We may have come here from far away…but we consider Neverland our home, too!” With a confidant grin, Jake thumped a fist to his chest, affirming that indeed—all parties shared the same goal. The Fairies all seemed pleased, loud bell chimes resounding in place of their unheard voices, fluttering around all in an excited flurry. ”Ha ha, the Fairies agree! We all call Neverland our home and have our own roles in defending it.” Content and elated, Izzy clapped her hands together while Cubby seemed to finally relax and Jake merely rested his hands on his hips with a friendly grin. "Wait!” Blinking in astonishment, Fox had shouted out, gripping at their head and shaking it before lamenting.
”We’re wasting time! Henoke’s fighting the Tribe Leader right now! We gotta get that dust and go!” It seemed everyone had forgotten that little detail during the escapades around the pond. Even the Fairies seemed to blink in astonishment before scrambling in a buzz, fluttering around the Lost Boys who began to open small sacks they each carried. ”I’ll go tell the rest to quit hidin' and we can scram!” Disappearing back into the forest thickets around the pond, Rabbit left to gather the remaining Lost Boys while Skunk and Fox revealed small sacks stored in their furs. ”Huh?! The Tribe Leader?!” Jake staggered, taken aback by what the Lost Boys had revealed. ”That’s crazy!” It seemed the leader of the Tribesmen had quite the reputation in Neverland. ”Aww, coconuts! Why didn’t you bring that up sooner?!” Cubby squeaked out, worry overcoming them once more, shivering in their boots.
”We were about to get the dust before you guys showed up.” Fox explained while hurriedly preparing the sack, a group of Fairies already beginning to cluster around in the air in preparation. ”When the Fairies said more people were coming, I thought it’d be best to make everyone hide—just in case…” Skunk explained sheepishly, clearly embarrassed at having gotten caught up in the moment rather than focusing on their primary objective. ”But you can’t go out there if the Tribe Leader is there!” Izzy seemed worried, too, clearly knowing the relationship between the locals already. ”He’s always after you guys, right?” Grimacing a bit, the two Lost Boys glanced between each other. "Henoke’ll need this dust, if he’s fighting that guy…” The Fairies began to flap their wings furiously, the sparkling glittery dust cascading down from the cluster they’d formed in the air above the boys raised and open bags.
”This’s stupid! You guys don’t even have real weapons! What if those monsters are around?” Jake stepped forward, a look of worry mingling with exasperation. ”It’s not like we can leave him!” Fox seemed indignant to the thought. ”True…he’s kind of messy to deal with and annoying…but he’s watched our backs this whole time.” Skunk sighed, clearly having mixed feelings about the notion. Soon, their sacks were brimming with the bright and shining Fairy Dust, their own forms sparkling from the extra that had fallen. ”What if…we took some to him?” Izzy spoke somewhat quietly, seemingly thinking aloud before realizing others could hear. ”U-um! Well…y’know…the four of us could definitely help him out, right?” Gaining more confidence in her decision and words, the pirate perked up. ”Just like at the swamps! We’re the best pirate crew around, after all, right?” Grinning and glancing between Jake, Cubby and Tori, Izzy flashed a thumbs up at the Lost Boys.
”Even without our ship, we’re a force to be reckoned with!” Cubby seemed somewhat nervous at first, though he slowly nodded, still shivering a bit in his boots. ”I-if he’s Tori’s friend…we g-gotta help…” Even though the younger pirate was fearful, it seemed they were also brave. ”Well said, you guys!” Giving a hearty laugh, Jake slapped Cubby’s back and placed a hand on Izzy’s shoulder, thankful to have such reliable friends. ”How ‘bout it, Tori? Let’s go save yer friend and clear the air!”
|
|
|
Post by therunawaygirl on Feb 9, 2021 5:05:16 GMT -5
Waiting in baited breath, Tori looked at the Lost Boys after her explanation, waiting to gauge their expressions. Smirking a bit after Rabbit’s lack of patience —a trait she’d seen multiple times before with another teen—, it seemed her words had reached them. Fox asking Skunk for reassurance brought a peculiar reply, saying how, because they were in the Fairies’ home, Tori couldn’t have been lying.
“Well, not that I can lie to begin with…” the girl thought —knowing all too well how a horrible liar she was.
Izzy’s chiming in only cemented the thought, catching the Lost Boys off-guard with a more than expected reaction. She smiled, knowing everything there was to know about both sides —even chuckling a bit as the pirate girl stomped Jake’s feet, forcing him to shut up before saying anything that might’ve brought the odds back.
It was all well and good, finally making end’s meet —until Fox mentioned what was happening outside the Fairies’ hideout.
“Henoke’s fighting the Tribe Leader right now!” Tori perked up, back now to a serious look as she heard what Henoke was up to. Hearing the Lost Boys’ plan to taking dust with them and give the Keyblade Wielder some as well, the girl couldn’t help but wonder why it would be necessary —having not really taken into account the Tribesmen’s prowess. Still, it seemed the pirate crew was more than aware of it, mentioning how the Lost Boys had apparent issues with them.
Only able to smile with unease as the Lost Boys mentioned their concern towards Henoke, despite him being “messy to deal with” and “annoying”, Tori scoffed in good humor, stepping forward just as soon as Izzy mentioned a plan to follow. ”Even without our ship, we’re a force to be reckoned with!” Tori nodded along those words, proud of the confidence the trio had mustered against all odds. Jake’s question was met with a smirk, with Tori rather laidback at the decision.
“Let’s do just that —there’s no need to keep a façade anymore, not now that I know the real reason why those monsters are around…” Tori replied, before turning towards Skunk and Fox, “So? Where’s Henoke right now? I’ll go on ahead, in case things are tricky. After all…” the girl winked, prideful, “I am a neutral party, so to speak —Henoke thinks I’m not on his side, and so do the Tribesmen. If any of you show up, we might have unnecessary confrontation —so I’ll take it from here.”
Knowing Jake would be more than against the suggestion, the girl was now fully turned towards the pirate crew, a new plan marching in her head. For it to work, however…
She needed everyone’s cooperation —from pirates, to Lost Boys, to even the Fairies around them. “You guys stay with the Lost Boys, and help them if the going gets tough” Tori began, “If those monsters jump at you, that is —otherwise, try to stay away from strife. If what I’m thinking is right, then this is truly not a fight you can take part of” she looked at Jake, “Instead, we can use your strength other ways —and that would be protecting others who can’t fend for themselves. You, and obviously the rest of your crew.”
Still smiling, she looked at the Lost Boys that were still there, with a role for them, as well. They were the ones who had been with Henoke, after all, alongside a few others —those who weren’t there were bound to be elsewhere. With Rabbit now gone, albeit with the knowledge of the pirates being allies and not foes, things would run if only a bit smoother.
“I’ll need you guys to cooperate with Jake, Izzy and Cubby —that way, we can make sure you all remain safe” she began, “Not only that, but you being with them helps in establish the fact that we are, in fact, allies —that way, at least we have better chances of them listening.”
“And lastly, well…” Tori smiled, looking at the Fairies, “I guess I’ll be the one to give Henoke some Fairy Dust… But I can’t get there on my own two feet, if I wanna get there as soon as possible… Right?” she chuckled, “In the end, we also came here for some Fairy Dust.”
|
|
|
Post by hoodwink on Feb 9, 2021 12:38:05 GMT -5
The enchanted grove of the Fairies had become alive and bustling with even more activity. It seemed the magical locals could also sense the trouble beyond the portal that led to their home. ”Let’s do just that—there’s no need to keep a facade anymore,” As Izzy cheered out happily with Tori’s affirmation, Cubby gave a nervous nod while mumbling and looking at their feet and Jake pumped a fist into the air wearing a grin brimming with confidence. ”So? Where’s Henoke right now? I’ll go on ahead, in case things are tricky.” Hearing how the teen planned on going ahead, the young captain stepped forward to object, cut off by her perceptiveness; Tori had already anticipated Jake’s refusal, after all. "You guys stay with the Lost Boys and help them if the going gets tough.” Similar to the swamp, it seemed the Keybearer wanted as few locals as possible dealing with the Heartless—or whatever else was lurking.
”You can count on us, Tori!” Answering before the others, Izzy perked up, giving the girl a reassuring smile. ”We’ll make sure everyone stays safe!” Crossing his arms with a sigh, Jake frowned but seemed to resign. ”Tch—guess ya got a point…can’t have anyone gettin’ hurt from those things…” Playing on his hearts true desire, it seemed Tori had successfully convinced the pirate captain of her plan. ”He’s across the stream by the pond!” Skunk chimed in with directions for the teen. ”He should still be in that part of the forest…it’s close.” It seemed the youngest of the boys had indeed the clearest head on their shoulders. ”I’ll need you guys to cooperate with Jake, Izzy and Cubby—“ The Lost Boys were quick to stiffen and give salutes, nodding with determined looks. ”Roger!”
Finally reminding the Fairies of their own purposes, Tori addressed the need for more Fairy Dust. ”That’s right...” Izzy flashed a sheepish look, somewhat embarrassed. With everything having been going on, she hadn’t even had time to explain to the Fairies why they’d come. Bustling and swarming through the air, the grove was filled with the sounds of bell chimes as the Fairies communicated to one another—seemingly switching out the ones that had given out dust before. "Oh, yay! They’re fine with it~” Izzy beamed happily, though the girl hadn’t doubted the Fairies willingness to help. After all, the pirate crew had helped them more than a few times—it was all give and take, really. Removing the small sack that she wore as a necklace, the pirate opened and held it up to a small cluster of Fairies that had begun to swarm before her. Likewise, a group began to fly and zig zag around Tori—the glittering and sparkling dust illuminated despite the brightness of the sun as it fell over and clung to the teen. ”Don’t worry, by the way—“ Jake watched as the Keybearer slowly grew swarmed in Fairies and dust. ”It won’t wash off in the pond. I’m sure ya noticed, but it’s not yer typical ‘water’.” Chuckling a bit at knowledge he kept to himself, the young captain turned to the Lost Boys.
”Alright, let’s go meet up with the rest of your group. We’ll head out shortly after Tori, once the coast is clear.” Nodding, Fox and Skunk began to rush off into the forest thicket around them. Turning and flashing Tori a ‘thumbs up’, the young captain grinned. ”Good luck!” With that, he was off chasing after the other Lost Boys. ”We’ll see you soon!” Flashing a friendly smile before following suit, Izzy was quick to chase after as well, followed by a small group of Fairies still chiming after her. ”T-thanks...” Squeaking out a quick goodbye, Cubby pumped their small legs as fast as they could to keep up with the others. Now having the ability to fly, Tori stood alone in the small yet lively forest clearing, where the ‘pond’ waited. Ding! Jingle! A lone Fairy flew up to the girl, with bright red hair contrasting the green leaf clothing they wore—their translucent wings flashing purple every now and then. Ring! Ding! Though their small mouth moved, all Tori would hear were the faint chimes and bell sounds.
Motioning with their arms to follow, the Fairy fluttered through the air towards the pond, pointing at it before rushing through it herself. It seemed one of the Fairies were brave enough to be a guide—willing to do an unspoken favor for the betterment of Neverland.
|
|
|
Post by therunawaygirl on Feb 9, 2021 16:12:22 GMT -5
It seemed the plan would be taking plan easily enough, despite the initial objections. Jake had acknowledged her words, willing to play his part as the girl indicated him to. She nodded after Skunk shared Henoke’s location, smirking after they decided to listen and cooperate. With everyone taking their place and role, it’d be easy enough to solve the issue quicker.
In the end, it seemed the short-ends had been solved, with everyone willing to put differences and strife aside in order to protect Neverland.
Tori flinched as the Fairies fluttered around her, sharing the Fairy Dust with her —the girl feeling a bit too overwhelmed by the light so close to her. Jake’s tease was met with a scoff and a smirk, but nothing more when it came to retort —not when there were pressed in time.
”Good luck!” Jake throwing a “thumbs-up”, alongside the other two cheering her on was enough to feel proud and confident. With their hopes now resting in their shoulders, Tori was going to do anything but let them down. She turned towards the pond, ready to leave as soon as she could —only to be stopped by a fairy as she stepped there.
The jingling of bells confused her a bit, but it seemed like the Fairy was willing to lend her a hand. The red-haired fairy, wearing a leaf over her head and strapped under her chin, pointed at the pond once she’d moved towards it, motioning all what Tori had to do.
“So, you’ll be tagging along?” she asked, cheerful.
Following after the Fairy, Tori rushed towards the pond, diving once more to arrive at the other end of the disguise. Immediately, Tori took off, flying over the scenery of the forest and looking around with keen eyes, trying to spot where the dark sensation was coming from. Spotting it almost immediately thanks to both her senses, as well as Skunk’s assesstment, the girl looked at the Fairy, offering her hiding in the hood at her back.
“It might get tough —especially if those monsters show up” she explained, “So you might wanna stay near me, okay?”
Regardless of the option taken by the Fairy accompanying her, Tori would fly forward as fast as she could, with her lack of experience showing every now and then, but not being too hard to stop her from rushing to wherever Henoke was fighting.
She just hoped she wasn’t too late —wanting to end the already stalled game of war.
|
|
|
Post by hoodwink on Feb 10, 2021 13:58:41 GMT -5
Wasting no time in pursuing the Fairy and leaping through the portal, Tori would emerge on the other side of the pond, back into the forest clearing she’d first witnessed. A familiar dark presence would immediately be felt in the thickets beyond as the teen soared high into the air, attempting to locate the source. ”It might get tough—especially if those monsters show up.” Hearing the girl’s warning, the Fairy accompanying her nodded, soft bell chimes nearly lost on the wind as she quickly flew and hid inside the hood. Soaring over the treetops under the bright sun of day, Tori would manage to see the main stream the smaller one from the pond led to below, dividing the forest thickets somewhat as the presence lurked ahead. Continuing over the stream and to the other side of the forest, the sounds of distant battle could be heard even from the sky.
Clang! Whoosh! A section of the forest seemed cleared, a gap exposed from above that showed the chaos within. Broken trunks and splintered branches littered the floor below, exposing the orange haired teen and bear-masked Tribe Leader. Fending off countless Heartless from multiple sides coming from the thickets around them, the two went between defending themselves from lunging enemies while also taking shots at each other in moments between.
Tch—they just keep comin’... Gritting his teeth in annoyance as he cleaved a Shadow in two with his large Keyblade, Henoke’s eyes darted to behind him—where the Tribe Leader’s spear tip lanced and threatened to strike! CLANG! Spinning in a quick guard, the teen met the man’s powerful stab while allowing his weapon to glance off the side. Continuing his spin, Henoke landed a direct strike to the exposed Tribe Leader’s abdomen—the horizontal slash packing enough force to knock the wind out of him and send him flying backwards towards one of the snapped trees with a loud THUD! "Ha! Take that!" The Heartless didn’t give him time to press his attack, though, or revel in his momentary victory. Rushing forward with greed in their yellow orb eyes, the dark creatures were mostly focused on the Keyblade.
Though they’d attack the Tribe Leader whenever they got the opportunity, it was clear that Henoke had the disadvantage in this situation. Like odds matter! That’s right! He wasn’t the type to cave in when a situation got grim. He’d beat any odds with his fists! Pumped up with new vigor, Henoke roared out as he cast his Thundara spell, causing lightning bolts to zap! and lance down from the sky. Bursting and colliding with the Heartless threatening to swarm him, the teen had bought himself some room. Shwing! Whoosh! Recovered from the landed attack, the Tribe Leader was fending off the few stragglers that had already been near.
It seemed both were having a troubling time, unwilling to cease the battle between each other to deal with the Heartless despite the situation. In a sense, the two of them seemed to share a sense of pride and stubbornness, in that regard.
[[ENEMIES: 10 Shadows, 6 Pirates, 4 Air Pirates, 3 Dark Balls, Tribe Leader? ]]
|
|
|
Post by therunawaygirl on Feb 11, 2021 2:50:31 GMT -5
Smiling after seeing the Fairy agree to her suggestion, Tori was quick to look around, her eyes peeled to spot any darkness or Heartless —quick to find the stream Skunk had mentioned previously. Following the currents, Tori was quick to spot the battle happening from above, gritting her teeth as she grimaced, noticing both Henoke as well as an unknown party fighting against each other as well as the Heartless surrounding them.
She clicked her tongue, before asking the Fairy to hold on tight, to then nose-dive straight into the battle. There were way too many Heartless for it to be normal. Not only that, but the two parties that were fighting them were also fighting each other —only further drawing the darkness towards them.
If Henoke acted as a beacon due to the Keyblade, then the battle he was being a part of only further drew the Heartless towards him.
Calling the Keyblade to her hand, the girl was swift in her actions —diving towards the Heartless before unleashing a powerful horizontal strike to any Heartless in her path, later skidding through the floor and drifting a little, never losing the hold of her weapon. Standing back up with a sigh, Tori’s Keyblade swapped hands, held reverse while the now free hand held the sword’s handle, looking at the two that were fighting each other and the Heartless.
“…” she glanced over at Henoke, “You sure know how to get in trouble, don’t you?”
|
|
|
Post by hoodwink on Feb 11, 2021 13:15:36 GMT -5
As Tori nosedived into the small clearing of forest where chaos persisted, her Keyblade would draw the eyes of the nearby Heartless before the teen began slicing a path. Releasing the hearts of weaker beings already damaged, Tori would have no issues making her entrance, though Henoke would shout out in surprise, a look of suspicion flashing across his face. ”You sure know how to get in trouble, don’t you?” The comment caused the hotheaded teen to stagger back with an indignant look. ”Tch—it ain’t my fault!” The Tribe Leader watched from beneath the bear head they wore—their gaze unseen as it scrutinized and perceived the potential new threat. Poised with their spear, the man would find himself significantly less bothered, with both Keybearers beginning to draw most of the Heartless’ attention.
”Two…?!” Seeing the weapon in Tori’s hand, the Tribe Leader readied a battle stance, the darkness flaring at the tip of their spear. ”You here to finish what we started?!” With a mildly angry look, Henoke bashed away a coming Darkball with his Keyblade, glaring at Tori over his shoulder. The teen’s comment caused the Tribe Leader to pause, confusion hidden beneath the furs. ”Fine! I’ll take all o’ ya on!” Deflecting a Pirate’s coming cutlass, Henoke’s eyes brimmed with a fiery determination and frustration. ”I ain’t gonna lose to anyone.” Turning from his attack with the Heartless, the teen went to lunge towards both Tori and the Tribe Leader, though the sheer amount of Heartless continued to block his path.
”Grrr…outta the way!” Losing his patience, Henoke blasted out a Firaga spell, releasing a heart from the Air Pirate that had swooped down to attack him. ”So—you aren’t allies…?” Despite the composed and menacing tone of the Tribe Leader, it was clear they were rather lost. With most of the Heartless ignoring them completely now, the man was mainly trying to discern if the new entrance was friend or foe. Aiming his spear Tori’s way, the man’s sheer power radiated from him as he readied himself for the worst. ”Tell me, girl, where does your allegiance lie?” Tori wouldn’t be unbothered by Heartless, though surely with the ability to fly, they’d be easy enough for her to avoid and battle. It seemed the Tribe Leader was open to aiding her, depending on her answer.
As for Henoke…well, that bridge had long since been burned with the Tribe Leader. Quite literally.
[[ENEMIES: 8 Shadows, 6 Pirates, 3 Air Pirates, 2 Dark Balls, Tribe Leader? ]]
|
|
|
Post by therunawaygirl on Feb 11, 2021 16:03:31 GMT -5
Tori looked away, hiding the smirk that threatened to show after seeing Henoke falter, staggering with indignation at her comment. She glared at the spear pointed at her, the darkness flaring and almost causing a reaction inside of her —but she managed to find the strength to overcome the urge to fight, instead focusing on the situation on ahead.
The Heartless were way too many, but it seemed Henoke was more than eager to fight 2 on 1, choosing to fight Tori and the Tribe Leader instead of the Heartless —although the dark creatures were quick to remind him that they were still there, drawing some of his attention away. Readying her Keyblade while the other hand hovered near the sword, she was caught a little off-guard by the Tribe Leader confronting her.
”Tell me, girl, where does your allegiance lie?” Standing up properly, Tori glanced with a smirk at the Tribe Leader —perhaps a bit condescending, when she could easily act calm and collected. Yet she still had to play her hand, and maybe having the Tribe Leader against her could help play it effectively.
Not only that, but there was another thing about him that bothered her.
“Nowhere —I just go with the flow” the girl replied, glaring at the Heartless, “I’m someone who values balance over all else —and both of you are trying to tilt the scales in one’s favor. That makes you both my enemy.”
Having said her words, she readied herself for the Heartless charging towards her, quick to jump and soar with ease. Shooting forth a Ruinga spell at the first enemy that crossed her path, her focus was swift to target the most important threat.
She could deal with Henoke and the Tribe Leader later, now that she had stated she was on no one’s side.
Tori glanced over at the Fairy hiding in her hood, giving her a faint smile as she soared back and away, trying to create distance from the major threats. It was more than possible that the Fairy would be cowering in fear, being this up-close to the monsters threatening Neverland —but Tori couldn’t afford the Fairy to leave the hiding spot until the coast was clear.
“Stay there just for a little longer” she asked, “While I’m sure Henoke needs the Fairy Dust now, I’m not going to let you get close while the monsters are here —so just bear with me a little, alright?”
|
|
|
Post by hoodwink on Feb 11, 2021 16:29:36 GMT -5
”Nowhere—I just go with the flow.” The girl’s vague answer caused the Tribe Leader to tense, hearing how she proclaimed to be both of their enemies. ”I see.” Twirling their spear and readying a battle stance, the masked leader watched as the teen focused on the Heartless—keeping both her and Henoke in sight. Skooom! Blasting out her Ruinga spell while taking to the sky, Tori had no issues with fighting off the ground enemies as her spell erupted against a Shadow and Darkball—what few airborne Heartless remained were hardly up for the challenge. Still, the violent and senseless beings would try—swooping up and after the Keyblade wielder with zealous as their large fists balled and swung.
Clang! Slash! In a battle of swords with the Pirate Heartless rushing through with their cutlass’, Henoke kept his eye on the Tribe Leader, who was slowly beginning to circle around his battle with the Heartless. Tch—they’re totally ignorin’ ‘im now! Irritated at the very nature of his own weapon, the teen slammed the tip of his keyblade into the ground, summoning forth his Quake spell as the forest floor shook and knocked over trees and branches quaked and jolted. The Heartless around the teen toppled over and tripped over themselves; even the Tribe Leader was forced to backpedal, leaping away from the jagged plates of earth moving and rupturing out among the forest, ruining the terrain and unearthing hidden roots and soil as its surface split open.
”Heh—yer wide open!” Using his High Jump, Henoke leapt over the stunned and staggered Heartless with ease, readying a powerful overhead swing with his large Keyblade as he plummeted towards the Tribe Leader. CLANG! Gritting his teeth in annoyance as the man raised a guard in time, the teen struggled with surprising power as the key-teeth of his weapon locked against the spear pole. Despite the Tribe Leader’s physique and size, Henoke was able to push back, providing a powerful opposition as the two skid and pushed against ruined earth.
The Heartless wouldn’t remain paused forever though, some already beginning to recover, their yellow eyes seeking the hearts once more. Drawn to the Keyblade, those around would slowly begin to close in on the two, while the airborne enemies continued to lunge and lance at Tori in the sky!
[[ENEMIES: 6 Shadows, 5 Pirates, 3 Air Pirates, 1 Dark Balls, Tribe Leader]]
|
|
|
Post by therunawaygirl on Feb 11, 2021 16:45:27 GMT -5
Flying backwards after having taken off, Tori noticed how some Heartless had decided to chase after her. She clicked her tongue, annoyed by the persistence, but it wasn’t like she couldn’t fend them off easily. Airborne already, the girl made the Keyblade spin around her imbued with Ruin magic, her Cross-up Magic acting as means to create distance from the Heartless that decided to get too close for comfort.
Grabbing the Keyblade back, she glared, looking at the battle happening below. Henoke had taken the initial push, using his Quake to disturb both Heartless and Tribe Leader, before pushing on and fighting the latter with a lot of strength. While she had stated she was on neither’s side, it was clear that the conflict was drawing the Heartless towards them. That, and the Tribe Leader’s obvious use of darkness.
Somethings just wouldn’t fly by, in the end. With a sigh, Tori slouched a bit, before picking up the pace and diving back into the fray, mist gathering fiercely around her.
“Can it —both of you!”
The mist emitting from both her body as well as the Keyblade burst forth, as she dashed straight to where Henoke and the Tribe Leader were fighting, looking to separate both of them with a more that annoyed glare. Landing on the floor with her gaze looking directly at the Heartless, she groaned, her grimace obvious.
She had more than just a few words in mind, when it came to the situation.
“If you have issues to settle, do so after the monsters are taken care of!” she shouted, “I’m not gonna sit by and watch as you both draw them closer and closer! So, either focus on fighting them, or I’ll take you out alongside them!”
With mist gathered so densely around her, Tori had no issues unleashing a powerful array of attacks. With water surging behind her, the girl unleashed first her Flood spell, before following it quickly with her Flash, searching to get rid of one of the Pirates, continuing on with both Keyblade and sword at the ready.
It seemed her Spirit’s instincts had kicked in —protect the balance between light and darkness, no matter the cost. And clearly, the ones upsetting it the most were not the Heartless, but the two stubborn sides still looking to confront the other despite the dangers.
|
|
|
Post by hoodwink on Feb 12, 2021 14:01:17 GMT -5
”They’re getting closer, you know…” Pushing against the struggle as darkness flared more intensely around the spear, the Tribe Leader’s hidden gaze seemed to be more on the Heartless than Henoke. ”Tch—what? Ya scared?” Spitting out the retort with a mocking smirk, the teen was quick to push back, regaining the traction they’d lost. ”I’m gonna take you out with ‘em!” Fueled by a fiery determination and pride, Henoke was beginning to slowly come out on top in the struggle, forcing the Tribe Leader back a bit as the Heartless began to close in. ”Can it—both of you!” Tori’s sudden entrance after having evaded the airborne Heartless caused Henoke to shout out in surprise as the mist burst forth around both he and the Tribe Leader. Though the teen knew the mist itself wouldn’t be harmful, it had indeed succeeded in taking him by surprise, causing him to stagger and falter as the Tribe Leader leapt backwards to evade the girl’s landing.
”If you have issues to settle, do so after the monsters are taken care of!” The Heartless were rushing in from all sides, now urged forward by the two keys they sensed, only adding to their hunger and zealous for the three hearts. Tori’s Flood spell erupted throughout the forest clearing, succeeding in swallowing up and throwing back countless of the Shadows and Pirates. While finishing off one of the latter with her Flash attack, the Darkball had managed to avoid the chaos, gunning straight at Tori with its gnashing maw! Swhoosh! SLAM! Lancing the large Heartless into the forest earth with their spear, the creature erupted into dark vapor as the Tribe Leader landed from their aerial attack. ”She’s right, boy. Our business can come after.” Glaring at the bear face that stared back at him, Henoke’s face reddened a bit. "Grrr…what’re ya even doin’ here?!” Pointing at Tori with his free hand, the other tightened its grip of the Keyblade.
There wasn’t time for discussion, though—the Heartless had been rebounding from the Flood spell while the Air Pirates swooped from above. Thankfully, it seemed Tori’s words had at least reached the Tribe Leader, who was willing to fight alongside them to defeat the Heartless. Clang! SMASH! Venting his frustration out on the Pirate Heartless that had reached him, Henoke focused on the fight ahead—though his fiery gaze would fall often on the Tribe Leader and Tori, clearly tempted to strike out at any moment…
[[ENEMIES: 4 Shadows, 4 Pirates, 3 Air Pirates, Henoke? ]]
|
|
|
Post by therunawaygirl on Feb 12, 2021 16:20:23 GMT -5
Now forced to turn around and fend for (mostly) herself, Tori’s grip tightened as her spells and attacks did her bidding, flinching after noticing the lone Darkball that had evaded most of the attack. About to raise her guard in the nick of time, the girl blinked as a spear got through the Heartless and defeated it, her gaze immediately going towards the Tribe Leader. It seemed her words had done the opposite effect of what she was expecting, but it wasn’t like her to complain.
If anything, it’d make fighting the Heartless much easier.
Henoke seemed focused, too, although she noticed him glancing every now and then, as if looking to find an opportunity to attack them. Not like Tori would let that happen —not while her powers were at their peak. With mist swirling so strongly around her, she wasn’t going to lose to some small fry.
Immediately, she dashed forward, her violet gaze locked onto the airborne Heartless, taking off with little issue thanks to the Fairy Dust. Once in the air, she threw her Fire Toss towards the enemies on the floor, while charging with her regular broadsword at the Air Pirates, swiftly and precisely. Regardless of the damage dealt by her Fire Toss, the Keyblade would go back to her hands, to follow up the assault with her Blue Dragon Flash.
It wouldn’t matter if Henoke tried to attack her now —not while she was airborne. So long as the Fairy didn’t leave her hiding in the girl’s hood, Tori had the upper hand solely because of her ability to fly, as long as the Fairy Dust remained.
And even then, asking the Fairy safely in the hood for a little more wouldn’t be an issue, would it?
|
|
|
Post by hoodwink on Feb 12, 2021 16:52:20 GMT -5
While Tori took to the skies, the Tribe Leader lunged and stabbed with ferocity, the dark powers around him seeping out. As Tori hurled her Keyblade at the ground-based enemies, sweeping many off their feet and creating openings for Henoke and the Tribe Leader, the Air Pirates were quick to pursue—the only Heartless with any flight remaining. Using the opening after her Blue Dragon Flash had succeeded in pummeling the Heartless below, the three winged demons swooped and swarmed around the teen. Large fists would lash out, yellow orb eyes merciless as they attempted to pummel at Tori from all sides.
Below, thanks to the girls primary assault, the other two fighters were having an incredibly easy time. What few Heartless remained in the forest clearing were hardly formidable opponents, quickly overpowered by the superior prowess of both warriors. Tch—how’s she flyin’ like that?! Glaring at Tori from below, Henoke finished off yet another Shadow, finally connecting the dots. Wait…the Fairy Dust?! Had she messed with the Lost Boys and stolen it from them?! The very idea (assumption) caused him to stagger in anger for a moment. Whoosh! Dissolving yet another Heartless into vapor, the Tribe Leader straightened up from their plunging attack, the spear head still flaming with darkness.
”Heh—looks like it’s time!” With such small numbers, the teen could finally focus on the fight he’d been involved with. ”Eat this!” Hurling his Keyblade through the air, using his Reflect Raid, Henoke shouted out with a devious smirk, pumping a fist in the air as Heartless were slain and the Tribe Leader forced on the defensive. Running directly for the man, the teen had a bold and confidant grin on his face as he leapt into the air to meet the returning Keyblade. SHIIIING! A powerful light erupted around the weapon as Henoke focused his Blitz attack, roaring out in fury as the Tribe Leader tried to react. ”Hnngh!” Knocked backwards from the force of the attack, the Tribe Leader was sent hurling through the air, slamming! into a nearby tree with a harsh CRUNCH!
”YES! I told ya I wasn’t gonna lose!” Shouting out in victory, Henoke rushed to close the gap, aiming his Keyblade at the man behind the bear mask. Spear lay broken in the grass, shattered and splintered in two, the darkness around the sharp end fading. ”That…weapon…” Raising themselves by pushing their bare back against the tree trunk, the Tribe Leader grunted and staggered as they rose to their feet, a thin trail of blood trickling down from beneath the bear head. "Just…what is that?” Shaking their head in what seemed like disbelief, the man gazed at the weapon pointed at him, the red face on the other side. ”Shut up! I ain’t gonna answer nothin’ you ask!” Scowling at his enemy, Henoke’s weapon drew closer as his body tensed—seemingly wanting to press the attack.
”This power…clearly, it isn’t enough.” Staggering once more, the Tribe Leader faltered, dropping to a knee. Darkness still seeped from his form faintly, though they hardly seemed ready or willing to keep fighting at the moment. A look of mild confusion came over Henoke's face, though he was quick to shake it off, replacing it with a familiar frustrated and angry look. "You and your Heartless buddies, failed. What're ya gonna do now?" Shaking his head a bit, the Tribe Leader gazed down at the ground. "How many times must I tell you, boy? Those demons are not my doing."
[[ENEMIES: 3 Air Pirates (focused on Tori) ]]
|
|
|
Post by therunawaygirl on Feb 12, 2021 17:12:32 GMT -5
Taking a different stance on the air, Tori glanced over to the remaining Heartless chasing after her. With a disappointed sigh, the girl had mist gathered fiercely around her, the reverse crystal Keyblade engulfed in a brilliant light. Knowing that she had to use her power as much as she could before it ran out, Tori wasn’t going to mince anything.
Readying the attack, Tori took no time in unleashing her powerful Twilight’s Outburst, the strike enough to decimate anything in it’s path —while also striking downwards to where Henoke had beaten the Tribe Leader into submission. Regardless of how the attack connected, the girl lunged forward, ignoring everything at that point to break the unnecessary violence, putting herself up front.
“Stop that, right NOW!”
Mist followed her shout, surrounding both Henoke and the Tribe Leader, Tori’s violet eyes enraged as she looked at the Keyblade Wielder. While the mist would gather and shield the Tribe Leader from further damage, it seemed hesitant, not getting close to the darkness prying in their heart —if anything, it tried to dispel and soothe it. Knowing the truth the Tribe Leader didn’t, it seemed the mist would hardly help him, other than force Henoke’s focus elsewhere.
Tori saved the sword in her sheath, scowling at Henoke with clear reproach, all while her Keyblade was pointed at him without a single word. The mist swirled with vivid strength, not wanting to release the boy from its grasp, trying to force him in place —all while Tori did her part.
“How much longer do you plan on doing this?” she asked, an evident growl in her words, “How much longer do you plan on fighting head-on, without even thinking on the consequences that follow after? Because right now, you’re part of the reason why the Heartless are here, gathered so zealously around us. And if you refuse to believe that… Then I’ll make you.”
Lowering the Keyblade to her side, Tori never looked away from Henoke, her disdain clear —and yet, despite that, there was a concern hidden beneath her gaze, something that was evident despite her anger. If the Keyblade Wielder in front refused to listen, then the fight would break up without any side holding back.
She just hoped everyone was safe by then —pirates and Lost Boys, trying to overcome the differences for the sake of Neverland.
“You’re no different from those you claim to fight against, y’know” Tori said, stepping forward, “You called me a hypocrite, back then, yet you’re completely aware of how much contradictions your words and actions create —and that alone is aggravating” she followed, “How much longer do you plan on allowing your anger, of all things, take the better of you? Are you truly the one in control, or is it the anger that’ll claim you first?”
|
|
|
Post by hoodwink on Feb 12, 2021 18:23:18 GMT -5
”Stop that, right NOW!” Having eradicated the Heartless in the sky, Tori rushed down towards the aftermath of the battle. ”What is—?!” With surprise clear in their voice, the Tribe Leader jolted on their knees, still subdued at the base of the large tree when the mists began to swirl and follow the girl’s demands. Shielding the masked man from view and harm, the mist spread out towards Henoke, causing the hotheaded teen to shout out in surprise as they slashed with their Keyblade. ”Damn it, Tori! I had ‘im!” Slicing through the mist that continued to swarm around him, the teen was only able to fight for so long before being overwhelmed for the moment, snatched off of the ground as their arms and legs became devoured by it. ”How much longer to you plan on doing this?”
The end of the girl’s Keyblade would be met with a scowling glare as Henoke struggled against the bizarre magic at work. ”Right now, you’re part of the reason why the Heartless are here,” From their spot behind the shrouding mist, the Tribe Leader perked up in attention. ”Duh! They’re always after us, ‘cause o’ the Keyblade! It’s the same everywhere we go!” It was clear that the gravity of what the girl was getting at wasn’t clicking with the hotheaded and struggling teen. ”You’re no different from those you claim to fight against, y’know.” The comment caught him off-guard, causing him to blink for a moment in both astonishment and confusion. As Tori said her piece, the Tribe Leader slowly staggered and swayed to their feet from behind the mist—slowly recovering from the heavy blow dealt earlier. They listened and watched with intrigue, wondering just who these strangers were, that brought such chaos with them. They...are the reason these monsters come? Despite the information they were gathering, they would continue to wait, unable to see much past the mist.
”Tch—you’re just tryin’ t’a confuse me, huh?!” Struggling once more against the mist, Henoke glared defiantly at his friend, not fully allowing the words to sink in to his heart. ”Both of ya're the one’s pickin’ fights ya won’t finish!” Surprisingly, the Keyblade in the boys grip shrouded in the mist began to react to the emotions of its wielder, a bright light energy beginning to crackle and spark around it as it contested the mist. Bzzzt! Zap! Crack! As the light erupted around the dark steel, finally the boys struggling gave way. Bursting free of the mist was his right hand, wielding the radiant weapon as it hacked and smashed through the other sections holding him at bay. ”So—what’d’ya got’ta say for yourself?!” Henoke’s face reddened a bit as he aimed his Keyblade back at Tori in kind, the light energy fading after having fought off the bonds. ”Why’d you partner up with those pirates, anyway?! Why’d you start attackin’ me, huh?!”
It was clear the boy was indeed having a fit of anger, though unlike back in the swamp—he wasn’t fully succumbed to it. Despite the battle stance he took, preparing himself for a potential fight, Henoke didn’t rush in to attack for once. It seemed his want for answers were betraying his hearts true feeling—one masked by frustration and rage misplaced. Hurt. Deep in the replica’s heart were reminders of fractured memories—of a prior life the original left burdened to the ghost.
|
|
|
Post by therunawaygirl on Feb 12, 2021 18:38:18 GMT -5
The girl did nothing as the Keyblade Wielder freed himself from the mist, truthfully not wanting to hold him back much more. She’d picked up his confusion, her words somewhat reaching out towards him —but far from enough. Even though he wasn’t fully grasping the meaning behind them, they had halted his attacks.
That would suffice for now.
”So—what’d’ya got’ta say for yourself?!” As Henoke pointed the Keyblade up towards her, his face red in anger, Tori perked up, noticing a faint shift. Her own grip tightened, noticing what it was that had caught her attention, only able to close her eyes and sigh, looking away.
“Those memories are rising, after all…”
She knew Henoke didn’t really want to fight —and neither did she. But she couldn’t drop the façade just yet, wanting to push him into a little more thought. Raising her head once more, Tori looked straight at him, her face a bit more relaxed in expression, but still clearly berating.
“Who do you think is the reason behind all this?” she asked, calmly, “Can you say for certain who the good guys and the bad guys are in this situation, or are you simply striking whoever catches your fancy?”
There was something Tori wanted to show him, after all. The reason why she’d go through all the trouble in using the pirate’s reputation to her advantage, and everything that followed after. In the end, it was also her want to help the people in Neverland, knowing that not everything was as simple as it looked at first glance.
Obviously, she couldn’t tell him all that then and there. There was no point in doing so, now that a threshold had been crossed.
“Do you really think I’d go all this way, just to pick a fight with you? Surely you know me better than that, Henoke.”
|
|