Private - Thoughts of A Thousand Words

The air was unusually still as a felis appeared to be laying down in the grass of a specific hill. The soft, sharp red eyes were staring into the sky, if one were to look they would assume that she were lost in thought. The very thoughts that had ended up swirling in Ilya's minds were of the events that had taken place that very morning in a specific meeting she had to partake, the meeting that had occurred in her real life. Once again, someone had told her she should sell the company to make money, yet again, Ilya had refused. The only thing I have left to connect me to both my parents, and my passion.. Apart from this stupid game that I spend all my time in... Ilya turned to her side as her hand found its way to the ground, playing with the mounds of grass that were connected to the hill through various roots. Everything on this hill is connected, yet it merely looks like its only touching from the outside..

Without much thought, Ilya formed a large bubble in her mouth, her cheeks puffing out, her tail wrapping around her left leg, the opposite to the leg that she laid on. Her cat ears were relaxed as she continued to rummage her hands through the grass, pulling a few strands, playing with them, and repeating. The sky was clear, without a cloud in sight. The air was still yet not too hot. The false world that Ilya had become a part of seemed quite enjoyable, yet if this world became permanent she would not feel too bad about it.. The only thought being of the things she would be leaving behind. Especially Choji.. A smile played upon Ilya's lips, a smile that had taken over a year to regain after her parent's death.

@Kalyn

 

Kaylee's grey eyes grew wider with wonder as she turned in place, taking in the beautiful, rolling hills and fields that she currently stood in. Though a town would have been a nice place to take her first steps in Terrasphere, this was no dark forest with monsters surrounding her. Her fingers ran through the golden locks that poured over her shoulders, still taking in how realistic everything looked and felt. With a wide smile on her face, she thought it best to start exploring this new world.

Her white and green skirt swayed with the breeze that passed her body, as she hummed a marry Irish tune to herself. Curious about how everything worked, she held her hand out in front of her, opening her fist to bring up the small phone-sized menu upon her palm. "I wonder what items they started me with." she said in a soft tone to herself as she began to investigate her inventory. As the new menu opened aside the first, Kaylee let out a small excited gasp. Aside from the smile green and gold skirt she wore, and the poor quality starter dagger she was given with her Slash mastery, they had given her an instrument of choice for her to conjure spells with her Muse and Music masterys; a violin.

The grin on her face widening, she quickly took the item out of her inventory by tapping on the icon with her free hand. The small stringed instrument materialized into the air right in front of her, allowing her to take it in her hands. Immediately, she rose the instrument to hr shoulder and ran the bow across the strings, a single note sounding out. The happy Irish girl began to play her new violin as she walked along the rolling green hills, wondering what other secrets this digital world held in store for her.

 

The sweet sound of music filled the hills and valleys, causing a certain red-haired girl to sit upright. I wonder where it comes from.. Glancing around the hills, her felis' ears pinning down the location of the sound. Within seconds she knew the general direction of the sound, and upon standing and walking towards it she knew the exact location. The sound seemed to be moving, which caused Ilya to take note that the sound was not just the game, it would have been a player or a new monster.. perhaps? Not really knowing, as she had never met anyone who played music in the game, Ilya started to walk as if she were in a trance by the beautiful music being played. Her own feet moving on their own. Upon climbing one of the hills, Ilya could see below, a rather cute girl. She had luxurious blonde hair, and her hands were preoccupied with playing the violin.
With eyes wide, Ilya felt surprise. It is so.. beautiful.. Climbing lightly down the grass hill, the setting of the mood was one of pure aspiration. The cool air, with no breeze at all. The pure and lovely voice of the violin, along with the company of two females. Ilya's ears flicked, her tail following in pursuit, her voice taking a few minutes to find its chords, she spoke at last. "It sounds so.. beautiful..." Realizing at how rude she must have come across, Ilya covered her mouth with her hands, Idiot.. You could have at least waited till she was done with the song..
As the girl had been playing, the air had been happy, and joyful. It left a warm feeling deep within Ilya, making her feel like she could do anything in the world she was in.

 

The girl's slender fingers danced across the neck of the instrument, as the bow in her other hand slid

its way back and forth across the row of strings. Each step she took would propel her off of the ground with a small hop, skipping in time with the rhythm she was creating. As her foot touched the green grass yet again, the girl twirled in place with a small giggle, before increasing the speed of her song to sound more like the traditional Irish jig-like music she was used to playing. ​

Her music would continue to fill the air around her, though to Kayln, she was in her own world with no one else around to hear her, so she thought at least. Losing herself in her own sound, the young woman continued to move her body in response to song she played. Her feet moved quickly like that of a ballerina, occasionally turning in place to face the other direction. As she turned to face the opposite direction one last time, she finally heard another sound break through the sound of her violin, the voice of another female complimenting the sound that came from her violin. Quite surprised by the sudden appearance of the crimson haired woman, with ears and tail of a cat protruding from her body so naturally, Kalyn immediately stopped and took a doe eyed step back. "Oh!" she said, her pale cheeks taking on a bit of a pink hue. "S-Sorry, Didn't quite see you there." the woman said, her Irish accent obvious to the other woman who stood in front of her. "I'm happy you enjoyed it." Kalyn said with a small giggle in between words, "I tend to lose track of whats around me when I'm playing."

 

Watching the flowing movements of the girl, they were etched into the mind of the watcher. Ilya contently watched, the sound taking on a specific Irish tune, making herself shout with glee on the inside of her mind. The very feet of the girl playing the sounds seemed to dance as if she were in the best place in the world. Indeed the sounds coming from the sound of the violin seemed to make you feel as if it were the best place in the world. Anyone who listened would be taken in by a captivating smile as they watched the girl dance and play to the music. That is what Ilya was doing until the girl stopped as if she were embarrassed to know that someone had been watching. Hearing the thick accent of the girl, Ilya's eyes softened, "That was truly amazing. And there is nothing wrong with losing track while playing. It shows you truly enjoy what you do." The pause in the sound of her voice, seemed all too joyful, "It made my day, so to that I am thankful. If I may be so bold as to introduce myself.. I am Ilya."

Holding out her hand seemed like a courteous thing to do, however as the girl's hands were full of both bow and instrument, Ilya was unsure whether it would be the right thing to do. Instead, she waved, adding to the joyful feeling of the aura around her. Wanting to know the girl's own name she waited for her to reply, "Also if I may be so bold as to ask.. Do you play in real life as well? I know it is rude to ask about such things.. But I am intrigued by your playing.. So blame the beautiful sounds you produce."

 

As the feline looking redhead extended her hand in greeting, Kalyn looked to both of her hands, noticing the violin and bow were still in her hands. The blonde was about to fumble to place both in one hand, on on the ground, before the girl, who introduced herself as Ilya took her hand back with a simple wave, seeming to notice Kayln's tiny struggle. The Irish girl simply giggled, lowering the violin to her side and placing the bow under her arm. Politely, she bowed her head to the redhead, "Kalyn, Its a pleasure to meet you Ilya. Was it really good enough to make your day?" she ended in a bashful tone, never thinking that her music was good enough.

The woman looked down at her belt, noticing a small quick-release clip that she could use to hold her violin and bow at her side like a sword. Smiling, Kalyn snapped the instrument into place before turning back to Ilya, "Thats better." she said with a giggle. The woman then listened to Ilya ask the second part of her question, making sure not to stoop too far into the blonde's personal life. With a bright smile, Kalyn nodded. "Aye, I do play IRL. Only reason I'd be able to pick up the instrument here on my first day and play like that." she said with a laugh. "I actually moved to this country for music.. so suppose I would not have been introduced to Terrasphere if it weren't for that."

 

Listening as Kalyn talked, she started to take in the appearance of her. She was not very muscular, her body proving to be rather short and thin. She was rather beautiful with her feminine face and crystallized deep blue eyes. Her hair was quite long and took on the color of gold. Leaving the impression that this girl was rather gorgeous. Along with her looks, Ilya focused on the accent of the girl, seeming to take a liking to her voice rather instantly.

As the girl clipped her violin and bow on the side by using a release clip, Ilya chuckled on the inside. A true.. Music Warrior.. As soon as the girl spoke of her real life, telling Ilya that she could indeed play, Ilya lit up with excitement. "What type of music do you like to play the most?" She never really was one to play musical instrument, unless one were to count her voice. In her real life, she would oftentimes sing for the various fundraisers that her company held.

"That would explain how you have the Irish accent and you can still access the game.. Did you move here to play your music? Or perhaps attend Juilliard?" Ilya realized how personal the questions were getting and began to apologize, "Sorry.. You do not have to answer that question.. I am getting awfully personal.." Thinking of a conversation that would redeem herself she thought of the game. "So I take it you took up the mastery Muse and Music? What other mastery did you choose if you do not mind my asking.. Also are you wanting to bring your music to the game? Perhaps start performing here and have players gather round?"

 

Kalyn brought a finger to her chin as she thought on Ilya question on the music style she enjoyed playing the most. "Hmm~" a soft hum vibrated through her throat before she spoke up. "Well.. I learned to play a few styles really... Sometimes classical, folk music sometimes.. but I think my favorite would be jigs." the bashful girl giggled, "I know that sounds very stereotypical to enjoy that the most. But when I lived back in Ireland.. I was in a group with a couple of guys, and we would play together.. usually folk music or cover songs. People always enjoyed the nice addition of the fiddle along with the rest of them."

Kalyn could not help but blush a bit, as her brows pinched together, Ilya's qustions becoming a bit more personal for her taste. The blonde had to admit, she was giving into a lot of the personal questions, however she knew where to stop herself before revealing just where in the United States she lived now. However, before she had a chance to address her concerns, Ilya seemed to catch herself, backing off of the questions about the girl behind the blonde avatar that stood in front of her.

The questions seemed to continue, yet now they were more focused on Kalyn and her in game choices, rather than Kaylee. The blonde's features softened, feeling relieved that she could speak as her character once again. She nodded in agreement when the redhead easily assumed two of the masteries she had chosen, though showed a bit of confusion on the third. Kalyn turned her hip to the opposite side of the violin, revealing a simple leather sheath with a small dagger locked into place. "Slash. I figured that it would be good to have some sort of weapon skill to be able to defend myself. Though I take it if I play the Support role, I'll have people defending me. As for my music, yeah, I do assume I planned on bringing some of it here.. Maybe learn how to channel magic through my songs, but also entertain some people in the towns. Maybe even make some extra money in doing so." she ended with a small tilt of her head and a giggle.

Kalyn then stepped forward, a bit more of a confident smirk on her lips as she pointed forward at Ilya, "But I think you've had your fill of questions.. So now its my turn. How about you? What masteries did you pick?"

 

With a soft expression, the felis produced more questions, "So you play the fiddle in real life? What is the difference in playing music in the real world and in here? I take it you already know since I am across you playing your violin? I myself can only sing.. Have never ever played an instrument in my life." Ilya was actually intrigued by the conversation they were having, so much in that she was rather gushing questions to her new companion, a trait that she oftentimes practiced.

Safely talking about the in game character choices, Ilya listened as the girl spoke of her own masteries, "So support role.. I think that will suit you, you can support with your music. I myself have never gone into that side of Terrasphere but from what I hear you can buff your allies or debuff your enemies with your music. Interesting, I would like to see it in action sometime..." As the girl told her she had her own fair share of questions, a blush began creeping onto the face, her cheeks becoming the same shade of red as her hair and her feline counterparts.

"I myself, first chose Body Combat.. I still am unsure what path I want to take with my other masteries.. I have been switching them recently.. But I picked up illumancy. My own thoughts on the purpose of choosing is to evolve it into devotion and become a devout of a diety's name. As of right now my other one is Berserk but I plan on changing that mastery myself.." With a small smile, Ilya revealed part of her plans.

 

Kalyn rubbed the nape of her neck, looking down towards the ground with an unsure expression on her face, a tint of pink hitting her cheeks. "I-I mean... from what I've seen theres not.. much difference but I.. this is also my first time ever logging in." She looked back up to the red head, feeling slightly embarrassed that she was such a newbie to this world. "I head that most skills have some sort of assistance mode or something.. I'm hoping I had mine turned off while I played." she said, her embarrassment fading as she broke out into a laugh, raising a palm to her lips to cover her mouth.

Kalyn nodded as Ilya went on about the different things she would be able to do with her masteries in combat. "I think I have two things like that already that I can use.. Hmmm." she said as she swiped her hand to the side to open up her "Spell List." Two options sat there, each with their own icon. One was a healing song, while the other was a sort of debuff that put monsters to sleep. After confirming her own skills, she turned back to Ilya who spoke of her own choices, which were all just as interesting. Body Combat and Illumancy, the first she figured was some sort of unarmed combat skill.. the second she had only noticed the name during her selection of masteries. "Illumancy? What is that?"

 

Laughing along with Kalyn, Ilya was having the time of her life. The sun high in the sky, the slight breeze blowing that seemed to cause Ilya's own dress to sway ever so lightly. Her hair billowing softly, her tail flicking lazily back and forth. Her ears leaning ever so keen towards Kalyn to pick up on every part of her voice. The charming voice that caused the air itself to cradle and present it to whomever Kalyn spoke to. Such a golden.. charming voice..

Rather rudely, Ilya peeked a little over Kalyn's shoulder as she looked at her list of spells. "As you continue to expand your knowledge in your masteries, more skills will be unlocked. You can also make your own skills and spells. Quite an interesting world, If I say so myself..." Looking up at the sky, Ilya fell into her own mind, the silent and enticing lull of the sound of the grass flowing and leaves blowing in the wind.

The golden voice of Kalyn sounded, causing Ilya's eyes to return to her face. "It is actually a magic mastery.. It is light magic. Used for healing injuries, buffs.. Protecting myself and my party members from harm.. I can also smite people with holy damage. Useful.. I like to pair it up with my body combat skills. I can also resurrect people on the spot, so that is kinda cool.. I might as well show you something... Or at least I guess?"

Ilya's eyes closed, her mind searching for the words she had memorized prior. "Und veis ish dun" Upon finishing the incantation, a small white light surrounded Ilya. Ilya lifted her hand lightly, facing the tips of her fingers parallel to the grass. The light around Ilya seeped away from her body, forming two light projectiles that flew to the right of her shoulder. Ilya threw her elbow back and surged it back forward. Her eyes opening as she did the act. Watching silently as the projectiles flew forward. Until they landed in the grass a few meters away. "Small example of using my illumancy as smiting with holy magic.."

 

Movement atop Ilya's head drew Kalyn's eyes up to look at the feline-like ears that matched a color of her red hair. The girl knew that this was a fantasy world, where magic and monsters were plenty, yet the fact that she was talking to a girl who was part cat, ears and tail included, caused a smile to spread on her rosy cheeks.

As she looked at the minuscule list of spells she currently knew, she felt the slightly shorter girl standing just beside her, the top of her head just peeking over her shoulder to get her own look at the list. Her eyes shifted to the girl behind her as she spoke about learning more spells, even being able to make her own. The blonde smiled at the thought of being able to put more magic to her music, "Very interesting!" she said with a giggle, "I already made these two spells my own.. attaching them to certain songs that I play, rather than just depending on what the game set them to.. If that's how it works." he said with a light, bashful chuckle, still trying to grasp everything in such a short amount of time.

After asking about what Illumancy was , Ilya informed Kalyn that it was a form of magic that uses light. Her eyes blinked wide for a moment before they shot to the side, slightly embarrassed, "Right.. Illumancy, like illuminate.. should have figured that out" she said with another small laugh to herself. She then stood back and observed as the red head spoke a couple of words in an unknown language to her, a ring of white light surrounding her. Kalyns eyes widened in awe before taking another step back. The bright light seemed to form create javelins that hovered just over her shoulder. The woman grabbed onto the projectile, before tossing it like a spear, the light magic crashing into the ground a short while off. "Woah! That was freakin' awesome!" she said with a small bounce, before placing a hand in front of her lips. "S-Sorry for my language."

 

"You have a beautiful smile, Kalyn." Flashing her teeth back at Kalyn, her two feline teeth in the backs of her mouth showing through the usual, and mastered task of smiling. Words began to weave gracefully in the chilled air as Ilya's lips began to move.

"Honestly, your skills will work in whichever way you want them to. This game gives us so much freedom with what we do. How we play, all of our actions. This simulated world is a stepping stone for those with creative minds. You can do so much here, and it all lays at the tips of your fingers. My own thoughts on this world are unique. And I definitely want to rise to the top of this world. What are you thoughts on this world? The one you just entered? I find it very realistic.."

The same thoughts that always plagued Ilya's mind, were in fact of Terrasphere. Here she could do things she could not in the real world. Despite having quite a bit of access to a lot of things in the other world, this one provided a different approach to things. Magic existed here.

Everything relied on either fighting, or solving puzzles. From the dungeons, to quests. From fighting monsters to collecting resources. It all seemed to tie together. The other world consisted of schooling. People would always be asking you what you wanted your career to be. Limited by the fabrications of money. Here you got money from almost everything.

Knowing that Kalyn and herself were not that close, Ilya kept her thoughts to herself as she focused on hearing out what Kalyn would say to her question.

The example she had used for Hydromancy only barely breaching what she could really do. "Magic can literally do everything. I could freeze clouds, create stepping stones. I can do so much with just the touch of my finger or a simple incantation. Then there is always the aspect of my Martial Arts abilities. I can punch through everything.. It gives me so much strength and coordination. So many options and choices you can make here. It gives off such a positive vibe."

The small laugh that escaped semi parted lips, matched with a head thrown back in joyous elation produced a comedic scene on Ilya's end. Her laugh chiming and echoing through the grassy hills.

"No need to apologize for your language, I have heard quite worse from other people." Her eyes twinkled and her smile remained as she watched Kalyn.