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Post by Juan Jiang on Jan 28, 2010 20:06:33 GMT -5
It was a dark and cold night in Kyoto. Our story starts off in a local shrine of Kyoto territory. Rain was pouring hard outside and the skies were thundering. The airs was humid and damp everywhere. Even in the shrine where Juan Jiang, an aspiring Summoner, was currently inside the shrine. It was so cold that she was currently wrapped in a thick cloak over her ceremonial pale silver and blue priestess kimono. Currently she had a katana attached to a silk stash around her waist. A Tanto dagger was gleaming in her hair in the light.
The room she was standing in was wide open space. There were dim lamps lighted in 12 circled around the room. The seal painted on the floor was a complex one. In the middle of the seal was the Ying and Yang seal. It represented balance. Juan hoped it would bring her a balanced and swift warrior. One that would be compatible to her powers and talents.
The second seal was 4 beasts in a diagonal compass matter. On the north was a black chimera. The south had a crimson phoenix. The west had a white tiger and the east had a blue dragon. These were the four divine beasts: Genbu, Suzaku, Byakko, and Seiryuu. These symbols were common in Shinto magic. Finally the last layer of the seal was the 5 chinese elements: Wood, Water, Metal, Fire, and Earth. These were common in Taoist magic. By combining these two forms she hoped to bring out the warrior at his peak.
The room was normally a meeting room for the priest and priestesses that lurked into the temple. However thanks to her meddling she had the chance to borrow this room. It was a high place of spiritual energy aka mana. So it would be perfect for the task she would be doing tonight. The task is to summon a Heroic Spirit for herself so she can participate in the Holy Grail War.
Normally…She hated fighting and bloodshed in general. However this is serious matter and she can’t really say no to this. Or else it would bring dishonor to her family name : the Jiangs. The Jiangs were a large family of powerful magic users. They had many times participate in the Holy Grail War. She, in fact, directly descended from these summoners. Normally the eldest male heir at that time is the one who entered the war. However since she was the eldest and only known child of the main branch. Juan was a pacifist…But for her family’s honor: she will push aside her beliefs. For my family’s honor…I WILL win!” Juan swore as she unsheathed the tanto and got it ready into her hand.
“Hear my call oh great spirits, I beg thy, answer my call! By the authority of the holy grail I beseech thy.” Juan muttered as she begin doing gestures with her hand and closed her eyes in concentration. “Four spirits of the four corners. I have power to create harmony. I also have the power to cause disharmony. I offer before you my vows and trust. Come forth and stand in front of me!” With that said, Juan took the tanto and swiped her finger and a dropped of blood hit the seal. The seal began to glow and flash. A low humming was heard. She then waited to see if her call was answered…Or else she would be a disgrace to her ancestor…’Come on..Work!’ Juan thought nervously as she twitched her fingers.
[OOC: Bwah...Lame post.  Sorry for the crappy summoning speech.
Anyone else besides inXain/Yukimura has to PM me to join >3>]
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Post by Yukimura Sanada on Jan 29, 2010 0:28:52 GMT -5
Do what you believe is right
Do what you can do at the time [/size][/font]  -----------------------------------[/center] It happened right after his death, yet for reasons why it did he was still unaware of. He was just a normal human being at the time, one who was mere fulfilling his duty to his current lord in the context of ‘unifying all the land under one rule’. Yet when he knew that all had already been lost, he watched on as no less than a hundred surrounded him in his camp, with him already battered and exhausted from the long battle he was fighting in. It was in those moments that he thought he heard a voice…beckoning him; calling out to his soul as death inched closer and closer to him. And once the blade of judgment came upon his neck ending those years he had spent fighting, he felt his very spirit moving somewhere, heeding to whatever it was pulling him away. He wasn’t going towards the Sanzu-no-kawa, but somewhere far more important. He did not understand it yet, but he was chosen, one who was to enter the ‘Throne of Heroes’. There was going to be no rebirth for him, instead be put into a state of slumber ‘til the day he was needed once more arrived.
From then on, several centuries would pass, the male’s spirit sleeping in a state similar to cryostasis as the times started to change. Japan was changing rapidly under the clan they lost too, eventually abolishing many ways that he had lived for. Modernization was what was occurring, yet he still remained the same as he ever was. He could never change; never move on, simply because he was chosen as one who needed to answer a specific call. Within that time which passed, many stories and legends about him were passed from one generation to the next; shaping him up into someone that represented them all, yet still remains as the original. In due time, there were enough stories which would be enough to personify him into reality, yet with some claims that may not entirely be true. To the Throne it mattered not, for whatever stories that arose which shaped a hero was all valid to make them who they were. And when the time finally came that he would be sent back to perform whatever duty he must, these stories would come together to serve as a base for his materialization.
I hear it…A call…
It was then that it happened on one fateful night, the day of his reinstatement into the world. He heard it clearly, a certain voice praying up to the Throne to send down one of the spirits that was residing within. He could hear her clearly, that wish of hers enough to make him move on his own. It was like he was the one being chosen to go, the male not hesitating to move to where the voice was calling him from. The gates opened, sending an embodiment of himself down, shaped from the very legends that had built up over the ages. He rode downward complete with a steed, crashing down through the rooftop at the sudden summoning. He was a warrior in crimson armor, one just like it said in those stories. Yet he was not there as that person, his role something simpler in the coming battles ahead. As he dismounted from the horse that escorted him there, he casts his eyes upon the young lady who performed the ritual. With no hesitation in him, he knelt before this person, expressing himself with all courtesy.
“I, the servant Rider, have arrived to heed your call. Tell me what your bidding is, Master, and I shall make it my duty to perform.” -----------------------------------
With the blade of your melody,
Take me in the direction of the light
[/size][/font][/center] | Tagged | Juan (FW)
| Words | 613
| Music | Jap by Abingdon Boys School
| Notes | It was an alright post. An interesting way to summon him really, by tying to use some Shinto and Tao as a reference. Though I think Yukimura was a Buddhist...LOL
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Post by Juan Jiang on Jan 29, 2010 12:13:59 GMT -5
A good 10 minutes passed since the summoning.. Still, there was no sign of her servant. It was rather irritating and frustrating ‘I should have known…I am the former failure of my family and clan…’ Juan thought as she clenched her hand tightly in anger, she clenched it so tightly that the nails cut into her pale palms. Sweat began forming on her brow as she grinded in teeth in anger. She remembers all the criticism she had as a child when she didn’t perform proficiently the spells that she was taught. However soon after that it was discovered that she had the potential of being some greater: a Summoner. This caused her training to be ten times worse. Many times her bones were broken and her flesh was torn.
This must have been the cause for her suicidal and depressed personality. That and the cold jealous glares she received when she was proclaimed heir of the Jiang family. This caused her to yearn for acknowledgement and care. That is why she tossed herself in her training to get stronger and more powerful. She had high magical power for a Magnus. She also got good magical knowledge. However she knew that was impossible. That is unless she won the war and then she will get the respect she deserve! That is her main goal and reason to enter the tournament.
Her other reason is a more seemingly impossible: find her older brother. Shortly before his death…Her father revealed a startling secret: she had a brother. It turned out that she had a half brother to be exact from her father’s first wife. He was borne a few years earlier then herself. However it turned out he was kidnapped when was only two.She vowed to find him because that was her father’s last wish. Only when her father’s regret of not being able to find her brother is when he can rest peacefully.
Suddenly a loud crack was heard and the roof gave in. Juan got into a battle stance and drew her katana swiftly. She coughed as the dust began to form into the air. When she saw the figure standing there she blinked rapidly in shock. Standing infront of her was a warrior on a horse in crimson armor. Now…That was a shocking site to behold. He must be a rider. That was a good thing that matches with her abilities. She might actually win this thing. She gave out a cough and nodded her head at the Rider. Well, it’s time to introduce herself.
“The name is Juan of the Jiang clan of Magi. I was the one who summoned you. Thanks for your cooperation.” Juan stated with a small grin on her features and gave her new servant a smile. “My goals are pretty simple: win the Holy Grail War to bring honor and glory to my clan and family. My second goal will be known another time. I will tell you that one later…It’s a more personal goal that is not likely to happen. However I can dream. I am not asking now…But I would like to know your true name eventually when the time is right.”
“I may not like violence but to test your abilities…I am asking you to do a friendly spar with me.” Juan stated politely with a bow. She then took out her katana and pointed at the door. It had stopped raining. ”Because Kyoto’s weather might get rain again soon…And by sparing we might learn how to work together. If you agree…Follow me outside. If you don’t’ want to spar. Just say so. But before we do I warn you: I use my magic to help me fight along with my other skills.” With that said Juan Jiang began walking about while she began to hum to herself softly. |
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Post by Yukimura Sanada on Jan 29, 2010 22:16:13 GMT -5
Do what you believe is right
Do what you can do at the time [/size][/font] -----------------------------------[/center] The developments of that day were certainly a strange one, the newly awakened Rider finally being tasked to enter the realms of the mortals after centuries of beings stored away in the sacred throne. And though he is not surprised to be living in the land once again, his master seemed rather…different than he would expect. Back in the day when he was still living, he served under the banner of various powerful warlords, each with the very same goal of unifying all of the land. They were rich, powerful, and amassed many soldiers to attain the goal they had in mind. Together with those men, he was a general commanding his own troop on he frontlines, defending those said men from any dangers that would impede their goal. That was the kind of lifestyle he lead back then.
But now…
The horseman stood himself up from the ground, eyes meeting with the young lady that was before him. It was a great surprise indeed for him to see that he was to be in the service of this girl, when originally he followed great men. It was a first for him really, never before required to take order from a women. Back then, they had no real place on the battlefield, save a few who attempted to become warriors rather than wives or courtesans. Nonetheless, the war zone was cruel and brutal, not a place you’d ever want to see a woman be in. Yet times seem to have certainly changed now, with ladies getting involved into things that they probably should not have. It was a fact that the nature of the Holy Grail War was more than some childish game, even though it was played by using the very much expendable ‘heroes’ of ancient times to win it. By merely being under her control, he was skeptical, unsure if she was up to the horrors this battle may bring. Magi or not, he had yet to see what she was capable of.
“Jiang-sama, then. A pleasure to meet you,” he stated as they got their introductions down, his head bowing down slightly. Her intentions were pretty clear to him, a simple sounding goal that the two of them would pursue for as long as their contract was in tact. Yet for what reasons was she really pursuing the Grail? Honor for her family? As noble as it sounded, there might be other personal gains she was after. As for her second goal, was it really too personal to even disclose to her own servant? Personally, he did not appreciate not knowing all of her motives, for it would also affect how he would serve her knowing she possessed a secret motive. He would not question her though, hoping he would eventually learn of this other task in due time. Just like him, it appears she might not trust him as much yet, even though he was sent to be at her every whim, yet still understandable since the two of them had just met. For as long as she still possessed the command spell, he would be only loyal to her, and no one else.
Their conversation ended pretty quickly, but she said something that caught his interest a little. A spar with his very own master? Though it was against his code to raise his weapon against women, a simple non-lethal session would be a nice way for him to see just how capable she was. It would be rather sad if he was paired with someone incapable to protecting themselves, but even more so in his case if he was no match for her. Still, he felt a little rusty; the time he spent locked away in the Throne of Heroes probably too long such that he may need to polish on his abilities. Losing may very well be a possibility, but that won’t stop him from giving his all. “If that is your wish, then I will indulge you in this test of strength,” he declared rather clearly. His eyes figuratively lit up in a blaze of determination, wanting to make it apparent that his becoming her servant was not a mistake, following her outside of the inner shrine and towards their dueling place. -----------------------------------
With the blade of your melody,
Take me in the direction of the light
[/size][/font][/center] | Tagged | Juan (FW)
| Words | 710
| Music | NONE
| Notes | NONE
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Post by Juan Jiang on Feb 9, 2010 10:38:25 GMT -5
Juan sensed her new servant’s distrust and uneasiness with her. What can you suspect? It was natural for a human being nervous with someone they didn’t know well. They did just meet a few minutes ago. If she was a servant and his shoes, she would distrust whoever summoned her at first. Also, it must be painful for someone not to finally have eternal peace and be reunited with their loved ones. She was surprised and relieved that she got a seemingly polite and trustworthy spirit for a servant. Still, that doesn’t mean she can trust him yet. For this spirit was only obeying her because she had the command spell. Once she used them up she would lose her right of a Summoner [which she DOESN’T want to happen] she didn’t know what will happen. Maybe he will get a new Summoner? She didn’t plan on losing this war before she found HIM or using any of her command spells if possible. It just doesn’t feel right forcing someone to do her bidding.
She needed his help with the Holy Grail War though. Other then that, she won’t be asking anything else.
Many people in this war don’t trust their spirits and they get into conflicts. That is what usually leads to a Summoners death. However, what if he decided to meddle in her personal affairs? That she didn’t want anyone to do. Her burdens are her burden alone. That is how things is and should be. War and personal life are supposed to be separate. They should be kept as far as possible. Maybe later when she knows him she can trust this new servant of her personal reasons for entering the war.
She could also could tell that he was unsure whether or not she was up for battle. How did she notice this? It was pretty simple: in the time of ancient warriors and heroes…Females were usually housewives or even courtesans. The thought of being one of those made her shiver. Sure, she loved a good pampering once a while but entirely depending on her spouse? No way! That would never be her. If she was living back then she would rather committee seppuku or jump off a cliff. That or dress up and masquerade as a male as long as she can. Well, she will prove her worth by showing her skill. That was one reason why she decided to challenge her servant in a spar. That and to see what he is really made off.
Just about when she was about to turn towards Yukimura….She sensed something. She concentrated on the energy and gave out a sigh. Oh bother…Looks like she couldn’t spar with Yukimura this time. “Looks like we have to put our spar on hold, Rider-san. We are in the presence of visitors…” Juan hissed in annoyance as her eyes clouded with frustration and anger. Geeze…Why is this happening to her now? Why did they have so much horrible timing? She glanced at the trees and with a flick of her wrist pulled out her sword.
“Just come out already…You scum!” Juan hissed as she pointed the sword at an area. There was silence…Still nothing happened. “Alright…NOW I am losing my temper! First the hatred from my own family now more killers?!” Juan growled as she stabbed her floor. It appeared normal and not doing anything. “Dancing Frozen Blades… Tsurara no Mai!” When those words escaped from her pale lips spears of ice pushed from the ground. They kept spearing from the ground until the reached the grove of trees. With a mighty crash, the trees fell to the floor. Out jumped a few magi clad in armor with weapons.
“Why are you scum here?” Juan sighed as she ran one hand through her long locks as she pulled out her katana from the ground. She was terribly annoyed right now. “If you are here to kill me…At least wait until the Holy Grail War is over. Then I can die. It is not like I have anything to live for…” Juan whispered softly as she narrowed her eyes. It is true. She really had nothing living for. She swings her sword shamefully in the shadows and obeyed the elders in the clan. She soiled her hands with unnecessary bloodshed.
”Heh…You Jiangs are all talk no action! You group talk about peace and order in the magical world. However you are nothing really in the inside. I mean, they treat the clan heir like a weakling! Which she is…” One of the magi stated in a sneer as well as he glared at Juan and was about to say more but was interrupted as a snowball hit his face. He then let out a girly of scream a rain of snowballs came flying at him. Soon, the man was buried in the pile of snow unconscious.
There, standing with her sword pointed at the talker, was Juan. She was huffing and puffing in anger and rage. “NEVER talk about my clan about that again! I don’t care what you say about me!” Juan huffed and then turned to Rider. ”Well…I wasn’t hoping for this to happen so early…But can you please drive them off? I am willing to answer any questions you have any time.” Juan stated with a faint weak smile.
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Post by Yukimura Sanada on Feb 10, 2010 1:40:02 GMT -5
Do what you believe is right
Do what you can do at the time [/size][/font] -----------------------------------[/center] Uncertainty still filled his mind, not really sure if his summoner was indeed capable of bringing out his potential in battle, nor whether he was adequate enough to assist her in her goals. As one who valued honor above all else, he still did not like the thought of his master bearing a hidden motive, the male unable to determine if it was one that was noble cause or a tainted dream. It was really an important matter for him, her reasons to become his own motivation to try his hardest if need be, or to restrain himself if he does not agree with her. Still, he was not sure if it was by mere coincidence or fate that had brought the two together as partners in this battle, but for as long as she bore the command spell, he would have to follow her loyally like the servant he was. Once she used up all three commands though, it would be his own problem to find out what he would do next. His life was not his own at the moment, nor will it ever be for as long as his body remained in the throne.
A spar with her…huh? Perhaps it would also be a good way to see how determined she really is to win this…
It was a pity that he would turn surroundings of the shrine into their little dueling field, Rider already doing enough by destroying the roof when he made his entrance earlier. Her wish was still his own as well, hoping that the two of them could manage to accept and acknowledge one another once this little battle was over. He may not be a mage like her and know any fancy sorcery, but that won’t stop him from showing her that unwavering spirit of his. All he really needed was his spears and a horse to make him feel like he could take on the world. Still, this would undoubtedly be the very first time he would even cross blades (figuratively) with a woman, naturally feeling a sense of reluctance since he still was a stern practitioner of Bushido, never wanting to raise his weapon against women or children. Not like he has any choice in the matter right now…
…Or so he thought. He knew there were other presences in their surroundings, but he never imagined them to be hostiles, thinking they might have been acquaintances of hers since he also got the same feeling he sensed from her. “Tch…Interferers, huh?” he said in a displeased tone, not liking the idea of people interrupting his chance to test his lady in battle personally. As hesitant as he was earlier, he still thought of spars as something slightly sacred; battles which promoted a sense of bonding between the two participants by expressing themselves through their skills. Of course, that was probably his own opinion on what a spar was, making it a great sin against him if anyone were to be a hindrance to it. Even though this may be a good time to watch what Juan was capable of in battle, it was not his style to leave her to do all the fighting. It was an innate response for him to want to protect her, being that she was the one who made a contract with him.
A whistling sound escaped his lips, seeing her display one of her skills as she started to lose her temper with the people hiding in the shadows, watching as they announce themselves and their intentions. It was clear that his mistress held a sort of hatred towards those men, yet he was unsure what they had to do with the whole war he was to participate in or whether they were even participants in it. Don’t have anything…to live for? There was something about what she said that caught him off guard though, making him believe something that he could mistake to be her own motives. To say something like that in front of him may not have been the best thing to do, not really like the idea of her being so willing to die while making it sound like she had no worth. Though he still remembered that he too would rush head long into the jaws of death, he always fought mainly for his survival, for the sake of being able to live another day. That aside, any enemy of his lady was an enemy of his, Rider taking out his pair of spears as he became more wary of the men before him.
As hot-headed as he may be at times, it was not he who was letting the opponents get the best of them by being affected so much by their words. He could sympathize with her, also unable to bear it whenever one would speak ill of his lord or his clan. Anyone that would try to taint his honor would be the first to taste the cold steel of his spear, their current enemies truly becoming the target of that at the moment. Yet right now he just watched her as if seeing himself in a mirror’s reflective surface, her own anger being like a fuel to him that ignites his will. Armored hands gripped the handles of his weapons tightly as he waited in anticipation for her command, wanting to lash them out at the foes for slandering his summoner with their words. And as she did, “Understood,” he said whilst kicking so dust behind him, his arms swinging outwardly in a large arch-like motion from left to right, blades aimed to swipe the foes away in one big swoop, yet also to create an opening for his lady to also attack. -----------------------------------
With the blade of your melody,
Take me in the direction of the light
[/size][/font][/center] | Tagged | Juan (FW)
| Words | 958
| Music | Suna no Shiro by Daita Itou
| Notes | Not sure if I can control your NPCs so I'll leave 'em to you. LOL
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Sorry for the crappy summoning speech. 
