It wasn't Kessler's first day on the job as a guardsman. Though he wasn't what you would consider qualified, he was at least capable of taking down a thug or two. He was sort of agile... Maybe? Kind of strong... Sort of? Yes, he was capable he reassured himself by clenching his fists. Paying no attention to the injuries that dotted his face from his previous scraps trying to enforce the law, he was certain that this time-- This time he wouldn't just do his best; He would do okay! ........ ........ ............... A long sigh came from his lips, his motivation rapidly pouring out of his body faster then water poured into a boat with no bottom. It wasn't that he was weak, or incapable, in fact, he'd had success every time and again fighting for what was right. Instead, when he looked at himself he only saw 'average'. From every pore, every hair follicle, everything was mundane or typical. Nothing at all like the violent or overbearing skills he seemed to possess, he still didn't understand why they had such fierce or cruel names. Just thinking about it made his eyes moist, but he fought those tears back fiercely-- He was a man damn it! He wouldn't succumb to the cruelty of this world! Clenching his fists once more, even with his eyes puffy from his own self-doubt, he proceeded with raised shoulders keeping a hopeful and kind gaze on his surroundings. Truly these days were the ones he lived for. Seeing families walking around with their children, stalls open selling products to pedestrians, the sounds of conversation all around, the looks of terror painted across their faces-- ... Looks of Terror? Kessler halted his steps, confused as he followed their gazes to a particular thug. Though this was how Kessler identified the man, it was only because his bald head had a respectable shine to it and his clothing was certainly a ragtag peasant's cloth given to prisoners. Seeing the man causing a scene, trying to shake down a poor stall owner, Kessler brought his hands to his face and lifted his spirits with a soft slap to his cheeks. "Alright Kess... It's time to shine" He said to himself before raising an armored hand. Pointing to the man from afar, Kessler shouted in as loud a voice as he could manage in as strong a voice as he could muster. "Hold it right there you evil--" "Hey, Little bro, did you get the money for gambling yet?" It was a voice stronger then Kessler's even when he was bluffing, it made him stiffen briefly as a group of six joined the first thug at the stall impatiently waiting for the money they were prying loose from the poor shop owner. "Hey Bro, I think that little guy's pointing at you." "Ah?! Which one!" The first thug turned around and found Kessler pointing at him. At this point he was practically sweating bullets; One thug sure, two maybe, seven? "Kami-sama... Why?!" he whined in his heart with meek voice. "Geh--" Kessler recoiled noticing the stares of the other stalls and shoppers who were watching him. Their gaze was one of silent judgement and pity, he could only let out a weary voice as he slowly retracted his hand from the air. "Painful..." He murmured at heart feeling their judgmental stares. ".... Get him!" "Hiii!!!" Kessler rotated on his heels and began to flee instead. It was meant to be the other way around damnit! He was going to help people! He kept cursing and throwing about obscinities in spirit as he was being run down by a collection of unruly knaves like a small forest critter being chased by a pack of wolves. "AAAAAAAAHH!!" His voice raised as he applied more strength to his legs. It was an inglorious retreat, but he could feel shame about it later!
The vixen saves the day? It was rather typical to find Eliah basking in the sun, especially at dusk, she enjoyed the warm embrace of the radiating rays pressing against her hair and fur. The tingling sensation that it gave to her ears when a cool wind's breeze met the stray fur upon them. It sent shivers down her back that seemed to be endless as the chills brought a cooling sensation to her body traveling from head to toe, leading the hair to protrude from her skin upon her covered legs. That was the only downfall, having to shave. A rolling grunt protruded from her mouth as this all happened, a smirk upon the resting face of the vixen as she enjoyed some alone time with the white noise of the townsfolk. She laid upon a small stone fountain's outer wall within a well lit square that held a variety of different traders and venders, they shouted among one another trying to reach out to the folk that walked in by. The townsfolk would take the offers sometimes, which was something that Eliah enjoyed ease dropping on. The exchange of mortal contact was grand, but what was even better was when the Gods let their presence be known within the square. Though that was wasn't happening at the moment, she hoped to find Lightning-sama shopping around to find something for her. As wild of a dream as that was, she knew that would never come to be true. The very thought of hit led her to let out an elongated breath from her nostrils as her ears twitched with a peculiar sound arising. This sound was one that she seemed to know all too well: a chase. A leading set of steps that seemed to be nonrhythmic and more frantic than that of the following group of tracks. Without even opening an eye she could tell that the one being chased was an adventurer of sorts that had found himself in a bit of trouble. This was due to the clicking and clacking of his gauntlets in his frantic movements to evade his opponents. Eliah would raise her head up in confusion of the uproar in movement. She'd see the lad dispersing from alleyway of the markets, leaping and pushing through people. The look on his face was that of utter misfortune and despair. Eliah would let out another breath from her nose, before stretching and grabbing her staff that laid beside her. She'd immediately break from her slow movements once she was done stretching and throw the staff in front of her body, grasping it tight with both hands. "Eici Terra!" She'd shout as the ground parted ways from the Earth below her staff, it floated up before a thrust of her body into the staff was made and the rock flung toward the boy. "DUCK!" She'd exclaim to him, if he did then she'd clock one of the thugs right in the brain, knocking him flat on his back. If not then, well... that would suck. Nonetheless, it was likely that their fallen comrade would grasp the attention of one another and cause the chase to come to an end. If all went to be with the positive part of the plan and the goons stopped in their tracks, Eliah would run to the lad attempting to grab his hand and continuing on with his escape. "Come!" She'd say as she did such, bolting off in a direction perpendicular to the one they once took. It was likely the chase would carry on, though they'd have to plan things accordingly and hope that luck was on their side. If not and she ended up clobbering the kid, she'd have to run up and keep the thugs from continuing their attack on him. If need be she would cast another Eici Terra at one of them to invoke a similar reaction of distraction to their friends, while Eliah would help him up from the ground shooting the earlier command and attempt to take him in the same direction. ♚ BERA ♚ == @Kessler Cole == == 675 ==
Naturally, Kessler continued to run, panting, out of breath but this was nothing new for the struggling newbie. Fleeing was already a part of his repertoire he was well known for in some circles. He persistently continued though, buying time, taking the time and blows from the thugs to navigate around innocent people so they wouldn't get shoved out of the way in his escape. First and foremost, he didn't drag anyone else into a trouble that he started. He wouldn't involve others with this trouble, instead he thought he'd simply keep running until they got tired. Though he thought he'd simply keep running from them, the word 'duck' brought his attention forward. Seeing the stone coming towards him, he couldn't help an audible gulp. His eyes narrowed as he watched the stone coming towards his face. It was then that 'fight or flight' took hold. His breathing quickened and his ears slowly started to rise up from his head revealing his nature as a were-cat hybrid. His fluffy ears twitched just as the marks along his cheeks began to stand out more, his pupils narrowing to a slit and his center of gravity began to drop a half inch. His body bending, he felt the wind from the stone brush over his head towards the man behind him. Feeling it pass, he finally opened his mouth, his voice somewhat hoarse from running, but the spirit of his words was strong. "If Kami-sama is the light of the sun... Then I'll be a roaring flame that shelters people from the darkness of the night..." When his center of mass dropped, he swung his leg around into the man crumbling from the stone, his heel digging into the thug's side to push him in one direction after falling causing his body to trip his pursuing comrades on that side. Kessler's leg withdrew quickly, pivoting on his other leg, his eyes slid across the devastation being reaped by the sudden cast of magic towards the second and third person in line coming from the side. One with a sword, and the other swinging a club, Kessler's mind raced "I can take the club-- Rip open a hole in the sword-- Recoil to escape--" Was the only thing going through his head. With a swift movement he lifted a hand up swatting the man's sword to the sky to rip a hole in his defense. With widening eyes, Kessler brought his raised arm down elbow first into his face to bring him down to the ground. Unfortunately, the third one swung a club down striking Kessler's opposite arm into his side, he winced but after bracing himself, he grit his teeth through the injury and used the force from the strike to pivot once more. Bringing his foot around, he planted it in the club wielder's chest; the kick was firm but lacked power, only capable of pushing him back into those already tripping over the first and second guy to fall. It was just as he was preparing to take more blows that he felt a hand grabbing his reserve arm and tugging it away. The word "Come" startled him, his ears slowly folding back down along with the marks from his cheeks as he became a bit dazed. "Eh?... O-Oh, right!" He answered as if he'd forgotten, racing along with Eliah trying to escape the thugs who were pushing each other around trying to rise back to their feet. He wasn't certain where Eliah was taking him, but glancing back to the thugs, he considered her magic to be pretty powerful to make a person crumble from a single spell.
The vixen saves the day? Eliah's eyes were rather large at this point as she ran holding the hand of the kid. What the hell was that? Why was he running if he could just beat them all down like that? Thoughts of the boy's earlier actions rolled through her mind. She was rather surprised by it all, and didn't really understand too much about his ears and what not. She didn't even know he had ears until that moment and she had taken a rather good look at him as she did all that she had done. This kid was different, that was for sure. His skill as an adventurer must had been different from many others, only being able to call upon it when he was in a really big pinch. She had heard of others having skills like this, but she had never witnessed anything like it before. It was rather cool, and it flustered her a bit her face turning red slightly. With the side of her face exposed to the lad, she'd smile her cheeks holding a bright red hue just below her eyes. "That was impressive!" She'd exclaim in a rather chipper tone as they carried on their way. She didn't really know where they were going, especially now that the two were in action and she had just witnessed all of that. She wasn't even sure if they should have been running, but she didn't stop! Not yet, at least. Her breathing pattered with each step, her long flowing hair likely wiping at the face of the boy. She took a turn into a populated market alley way, one that was lined with taverns of sorts. Adventurers and Gods alike conversing and talking with one another. She felt like this was a good idea, if anything people would notice them running from a bunch of shady looking characters and stop them with some words of justice before smiting them. Who knew? It was worth a try. "This way!" She'd announce exposing her profile once more, as she did so she glanced down at her hand on his wrist. Her face began to glow red once more as she gulped and ripped her hand away from him. What was going on with her? Was she so aroused by his abilities back there that she was resulted in immaturity like this? She couldn't wrap her mind around it, the kid was a lame. She recalled to the words he before he began the assault on the thugs. Yeah, he was a big time lame. Though, there was something about him that made her grow flustered. Nonetheless, she'd shake off the thoughts as they entered the crowd of Adventurers and Gods, "Stay close!" Her voice beckoned, as she turned her body to fit between those that surrounded the area. The thugs hooting and hollering at the two before they'd vanish from their sight. She wasn't sure if this meant they had lost them or not, but she did know that they had bought themselves some time to regroup and figure out the next steps. That was if the two would meet at the other side of the crowd or not. ♚ BERA ♚ == @Kessler Cole == == 529 ==
Kessler ran rather fluidly behind the woman who gripped his wrist. If she had the mind to think about the contact after glancing back at it a few times she'd find Kessler's gauntlet armored his hand up to his forearm though it was concealed by his jacket. The metal was strong and sturdy, but warm to the touch from his own arm within. He noticed her losing breath quickly, he couldn't help a somewhat weary smile knowing that she probably went out of her way to give him a hand. He felt a mixture of shame and disappointment for relying on others again, it wasn't to the point of him wanting to crawl into a hole-- He didn't screw up that badly at least-- It was bad though. He should've looked into the situation more, gotten more information, but when he saw the person being attacked so viciously and extorted, he couldn't stay silent, he wanted to change things so much he didn't put thought into the consequences or the means. Being told he was impressive made him shy away, a sheepish chuckle coming from his lips making it clear he was unused to praise. It wasn't that he couldn't accept other people's compliments, but he knew better then anyone the damage he'd caused. The person he elbowed probably had a broken nose at best and the guy he kicked had only fallen over, there wasn't really any damage. He couldn't blow someone away with a punch like Eliah did with magic; It looked flashy maybe, but Kessler still felt like he had a long way to go before he could make a difference. He couldn't help thinking she was just trying to make him feel better about how badly things turned for him. "N-No, wasn't that big a deal. I mean, they still got me too, I wouldn't have been able to stop all of them or anything like that." He admitted knowing if he tried to fight them all off he'd just be beaten up again. If nothing else, his experience in losing fights and the injuries on his face gave him a very good understanding of his own limitations. Naturally, Kessler was lame by nature though, unfortunately he relied greatly on those cheesy lines for confidence to face pain that frightened him to his core. Nobody liked pain surely he understood, but if someone had to hurt he wanted it to be himself-- He reaffirmed that with every cheesy one liner or monologue he read off, it was simply to once again engrave that motto into his heart to bare what pain he could for others. "Alright!" He called back, a cheesy and impish smile on his face, clearly despite his self-doubt and misfortune, his bright smile wouldn't fade. He followed after Eliah who led him into the tavern-- A place like which Kessler had never been to. Whether it was a restaurant bar or tavern, Kessler had never been before. His parents either passed on or were crippled from a young age, so he spent a great deal of time being sheltered and working hard to support who he had left in his life. Seeing the atmosphere of a tavern made him gulp as he tried to shrink his presence down to be as unnoticeable as possible. Hearing Eliah talk about staying close though, he sifted through people quickly trying to keep pace with her. He was actually very agile at this sort of thing, weaving in and out of obstacles, not brushing past anyone he kept a beat on Eliah as well intending to meet up with her on the other side after she'd gone through all this trouble. However, as he intended to pop out from the crowd to join her, a man suddenly pushed his seat back catching Kessler's grieve in the leg making him stumble. He hesitated, his body twisting to make sure he didn't hit anyone as he took half steps to regain his footing. After the first three though, he'd feel something soft against his face. Hunched over, his weight would press into Eliah's chest from the side. The man behind him who's seat tripped him up pushed him firmly into the girl and almost instantly Kessler's body stiffened from a combination of fright and confusion. Like an innocent forest creature who looked up to suddenly see a truck's headlights coming straight at it, a gentle breeze was the only sound going through his head as thought processes suddenly stopped simultaneously. The only indication that he understood what had happened was his upturned eyes that watched Eliah apologetically, as if silently whining the words "Why...?" or "How did it come to this..." in his heart.
The vixen saves the day? "Ep." A remnant of surprise would escape her lips as she turned hearing a bit of a commotion behind her. It was near instant that the red-head would find his way into her bosom. The heat of his face upon her bosom was almost refreshing in a way, though it wouldn't last long. The sight of horror and fear drawing upon his body as he was resilient in his position, removing himself swiftly. This wouldn't be the first time for this to happen to Eliah, but with the way things were going before her stomach began to tie up into knots in response. Her lips stretched across her face and her eyes grew dim with disdain and discomfort. Something was brewing in side her. The tone of her skin escalated with the heat of her body as she began to radiate red once more. Her ear twitched slightly, as her tail flipped behind her. Her frame stood still, similar to Kessler's. She was at a loss for words. Usually. she would have just laughed it off and smacked the snot out of the kid or something to that extent. Perhaps even pressed his face back in once more, but no. This time things were entirely different, she hadn't felt anything like this before. It was as though something had just consumed her entire being something deep inside her kept her from acting out as she normally would. The source was her stomach as it grumbled and rumbled, the the discomfort of it all was overwhelmed by her embarrassment. Then it happened. PRRRRRRRRRRRRTTTTTTTT--TT--TT-T Her eyes grew large as the uncontrollable gaseous substance escaped from her rear. The smell practically smacking the crowd immediately as they all rapidly scurried away dropping their drinks as ale and wine splashed up from everywhere drenching her clothes. It was as though she had just punched an infant or something drastic like that, they had no sympathy for the girl or were just clueless to the previous occurrence. The mass drew a circle around the two. The men and women groaned with disgust, pointing fingers as they flinched from the retched stench of her inner organs. Her eyes grew dim as the phenomena came to an end, a sense of disdain and a hint relief cascading over her being. A small sigh came to follow as she stood there, flabbergasted by the odd string of events taking place. My life is over. She'd think to herself, her body trembling as her nerves seemed to creep about her. Though, it wouldn't hold to be true. She'd be fine, but she wouldn't be staying here any more, that was for sure. She would turn her body and walk away, her limbs stiff as a board. Her clunky movements resulted in a robotic-like movement. Suppose it had to come out eventually. Her mind carried on as her stiff movements flowed into a slight jog escaping from the back door of the tavern after pushing through more of the crowd and avoiding the staff of the tavern that seemed to shout at her as she traveled through places she obviously wasn't supposed to be in. The ledge of the door would result in a two foot drop to the ground below. She'd pat the moisture of ale and wine off her clothing, not too worried about the stains, before letting out a grueling sigh replaying the events in her head. She wasn't sure if they were being followed anymore or not, but she awaited the boy outside. That was if he so wished to do so or not, after all that she wouldn't blame him if he just turned around and left. Though, it'd be wise that he didn't bring the last five minutes or so up. Ever. If he so chose to come out back and meet her once more, she'd have her back pressed directly to the right of the door way. Where she'd try to snatch the boy by the shirt and bring him close in to her proximity, their noses near touching. "Shut. Up." She'd command, referencing everything that just happened and would shove him away. ♚ BERA ♚ == @Kessler Cole == == 690 ==
Kessler was initially frightened by her reaction, the feeling against his face was soft and reassuring, it was something he couldn't hate as a man, but the fearful coward in him made it difficult to enjoy. He shuddered briefly thinking that any moment pain would appear, but the longer he waited, the more confusion he felt. It was only when he heard the loud sound that he began to understand. Unlike the others though, Kessler didn't retreat. A poor child like him, foul things were no big deal, but this particular situation, it wasn't something that could push him away from someone who could help him. If he dared turn away and retreat like the others, he'd be throwing away everything he stood for. Though she waited out back for him, it would take him a while to finally appear. After a good wait, he'd finally come out to join her, grabbing him wasn't particularly difficult, being pulled close, he'd hesitate once more, his eyes going wide with a combination of fright and unease, he'd wince faintly before being pushed away, the towels he held in his arms falling about here and there from his fall when he hit the ground from his side. He was surprised, but pushed himself back up slowly, meek laughter coming from his lips, not so much at her situation, no that was clear from the self-loathing in his gaze that he wasn't laughing at her. Laughing at himself instead, at his inability to help his benefactor in a time of need, unable to do anything to really protect or guard her in this sort of situation, he felt a weakness he was all too familiar with. His clothes were even still drenched with wines and ales as well, cast off from what he tried to stop from splashing on her. During the commotion, as others backed away from the smell and the sound, he advanced to try and block the splashing of the liquor to make sure it didn't wash her face and hair. As a result, his own hair was dripping, and his face stained to some extent, but he didn't even wipe it before looking to get towels from behind the counter for her. Rising to his feet, he picked up the towels one by one. An innocent smile on his face, not mocking, not cruel or even joking, one that seemed to say 'sorry' without a word as he tried to approach her again. Lifting a towel from his small bunch, if there was any he happened to let slip through to her head or face, he'd try to wipe it for her first, a gentle touch, one that suited his delicate and petite image, but even if he was small, he was still a bit taller then Eliah. He tried offering her the rest with a weary chuckle, his gaze listing from shyness as he spoke. "I got some towels from the bar counter, I told them that I couldn't hold it in and ended up ruining everyone's good time. I let him know you were so ashamed of me you had to storm out." He explained, taking the blame for the incident without hesitating. Even if some didn't believe, even if there was some doubt, Kessler was a guy, there was no way they wouldn't be suspicious of him since he was so close to Eliah anyway. Instead, he simply tried to affirm that it was him instead to protect Eliah's image. He was already something of a failure and a disappointment, so one more incident wouldn't hurt his reputation, specially if he could do it to help someone else.
Nani? Time seemed to come to a halt after she shoved Kessler away, her visage was overcome by an expression of shock and regret as the towels flurried into the air, the lad falling to the ground. Her eyes grew wide, disgraced at the cruelty that she had just placed upon the boy. She resented the words and actions she had just committed, a step forward attempting to grasp his hand before he fell to the ground completely would result in a failure. A small grunt of dismay escaped her teeth as her brow curled in anger for her mistakes and unwarranted choice of words. She let her emotions and the embarrassment of everything get to her, and it was completely out of her character. It was an utter disgrace to the resolve she held as an adventurer and as a Runarl. She was never one to let things get to her like that, she liked to hold her head above things or just roll with the metaphorical punches. Instead, she acted out in rash and it would result in her making a fool of herself once again. Her fist would curl at the resentment she currently held for herself as she looked down to the ground. "Tch..." The sound of suckling her teeth would crack the moment of silence. She cursed herself inside, she felt obligated to make it up to the boy. She owed him for his undying will to be the better mortal. His efforts were so admirable that she couldn't help the warmth rushing to her face once more. Though her face would be clouded by her hair as she looked to her feet and the towels below. She'd her two feet back together, her hand drawing up to her mouth with a curled fist. Her teeth gritting in regret as the boy began to pick up the towels promptly after getting up from the knock down. The corners of her optical orbs began to swell, she'd shut her eyes trying to bring herself together. Her body swayed slightly as she tried to resist her human side from showing. With the tears building, a trickling of the spilled wine would run down her face. It was but the only drop of wine to approach her head during the entire even earlier. The small river of wine would find its way under her eye, pushing the tear from her lash, it would drop landing on the extended towel-covered hand. The hand would continue to travel until it's soft fabric reached her skin, resulting in her to open her eyes a sharp inhale from the shock entered her mouth. His touch was fair, harsh enough to remove the small river of wine on the side of her face but gentle enough to send chills down her back. She shuddered a tad before more tears began to collected within the corner of her eyes, her chin tucking in a bit more as she'd clinch her jaw and slam her eyes shut. The words that the lad would venture to tell her next would cause her back to throb as she began to sob, grasping the hand and arm of the boy. Once again, she had let her emotions get the better of her as this poor boy went out of his way to ensure that she would remain whole while ruining his own reputation. Though it wasn't a glorious gesture for one to be ashamed of something so minuet, she knew he did it out to protect her. She didn't understand any of this, though. She hadn't done anything for him, in a sense she almost made things worse. "W-why?" Her lips would peel, stuttering through the single word. Her clench on his hand and arm would tighten a small screech resonating as her nails dug across the surface of his gauntlet. "Why?" She'd shout, the waterworks rapidly flowing at this point. "I was going to leave you with those thugs in that tavern and you still did this!" She exclaimed her head remained tucked into her chest. "Why..." She'd repeat once more her words growing feint as she released the grip on his hand and fell into his chest, clenching the fabric that laid upon it. "Y-you don't even know me..." She'd state, her words were soft and gentle, but broken by the shuddering of her body brought upon by her extreme sorrow. Her ears would hunker down to the shape of her head, as she'd turn her face into his chest continue to wail. ♚ BERA ♚ == @Kessler Cole == == 756 ==
Initially Kessler felt a little awkward helping her to wipe her face. She seemed so out of it though, he felt like he had to at least try to help somewhere. He hadn't been able to lend much of a hand inside, so he could at least do this much he thought... though the longer he wiped her face and tears, the worse he felt. A wry smile on his face, his gaze listed to one side "Difficult..." was the thought that kept cropping up in his head. He wanted to say something heroic, something cheesy like in the stories his mother read to him that would just seem to make everything right. He learned though that those things don't usually work as well as he'd like, despite his friendly nature and petite appearance, he wasn't really used to cheering other people up, he was more often then not the one who came out feeling the worst in every encounter. He couldn't let that be an excuse though, as her sobbing grew more apparent, he kept his gaze off over her shoulder, as if struggling to not see her tears directly. He wasn't sure if he'd appreciate the gesture, but more often then not people who were crying didn't want to be seen crying. Even if he couldn't deny having seen it, he didn't want to go out of his way to embarrass anyone either. Naturally, Kessler was oblivious to her flushed cheeks and her receptive nature to his kind efforts. It wasn't that he was an ignorant buffoon, but Kessler didn't see himself as the type who could ever earn the admiration or affections of another person, so he simply wrote the responses off as embarrassment or shame. It caused him to go a bit further out of his way to avoid her crying face as she gazed down at her feet. Neither of them really able to meet the other's gaze at this point, Kessler couldn't help feeling extremely awkward with every effort he made to be attentive for this poor girl who he felt was suffering so much internally. Though he couldn't guess at why, he thought his efforts would be a relief, or that she might be able to smile again hearing that she wouldn't have to worry about anything coming back to bite her. "Women are complicated..." This thought once again bounced through his head resulting in an awkward atmosphere. Hearing her question him, initially Kessler couldn't quite hear what she asked. His brow perked and he leaned down to try and understand. Feeling her gripping his armored hand, he stiffened but didn't let it weigh on his mind as he tried to hear her. "E-Eh?" He asked initially only to see her start to sob more furiously. Caught off guard further, with his hand captured, he couldn't wipe the tears the way he wanted. For a moment, he considered doing it with his opposite hand but realizing that an armored hand wouldn't do much to stem the tide, he was certainly caught off guard. Eyes darting around, he grew flustered, panicking he was looking for a solution when she leaned down into his chest making him think "Ah! My shirt!" he arrived at such a conclusion, oblivious to the romantic implications, he gingerly tried wrapping his arms around her to support her. His body's frame was thin and slim but that wasn't because he was fragile or weak, he was fit but compact, despite his size, his chest supported her weight, the gentle pounding of his heart rang out loudly from his hysteria and panic as even and reassuring thuds. He was warm, more then his armored hands at least, he tried to wrap his arms around her thinking he was doing well to offer his shirt to dry her tears. His hand at her back gingerly rested against her, supporting her as if worried she might lose strength, but even if it was armored, it was a reassuring gesture he hoped. He kept his gaze up, like before, not wanting to see her weakness, thinking that it would shame her further, he put in extra effort as his mind raced thinking about her question. The answer wasn't hard, Kessler knew that, his thought process didn't go further then 'help her' but at the same time, just blurting that out would be crude-- He wasn't the brightest bulb in the box, but he was at least sharper then a hammer. "Well..." He began, buying time with the word that seemed to hang on the air. His breath washing over her furry ears as he spoke in a concerned tone. "I just... Wanted to help if I could. It looked like you needed help so... I-I mean, it seemed like this would be something that would haunt you so..." His words trailed off. "Stupid!" He shouted furiously internally, he was being a moron! One job! He has one job! Make her feel better, come on! He kept berating himself internally looking for 'the right answer'. His mind raced, much like in combat, it darted through different scenarios and possibilities, but none of them seemed like the right one until he arrived at a single thought. Thinking back to her running while grabbing his hand, her smiling profile as she raced with him through the streets. "Something like that" He thought before a sheepish smile touched his face. Feeling a little embarrassed he turned his head as if trying to avoid her gaze if she looked up at him. "You're really cute when you smile... So I thought 'it would be a shame'-- You know? I-I wanted to try and make you happy again..." He stammered through his explanation, though there was a very obvious chance his words would be taken the wrong way, he'd intended to try to explain that her smile would make other people smile, but his poor word choice instead made it sound like her smile in particular was precious to him. "I don't have to know you to know that... Right?" He offered finally, flashing a bright and innocent smile, he'd tried his best and laid everything out on the table he thought, he had no better solution then this. If he failed, he could take his blows and go home thinking he made every effort he thought.
Nani? Her sobbing would seem to continue for some time, she felt horrible for just running off and leaving him there. It was rather rude, after all. Though apparently, according to Kessler, it seemed warranted. His words were so kind, that was until he ran across the point of this incident leaving a scar on her long-term memory, sure to come back and hit her in the face every time she came back to this location. That wasn't much of an issue, however. As she had never even heard of this place before, which was odd because it seemed to be a rather condensed hot spot. Something she enjoyed, it made the whole situation slightly worse that she would have to pass up on the opportunity of ever coming here again. The boy was earnest and wished to see her well and better and not an emotional disaster as she was. He definitely knew how to play his cards, whether it was intentional or not, it was hard to tell if he was just genuine like this to everyone or if it was just girls or if it was just her, even. It was all so abstract, her doing what she did and then running away from the problem. Over a boy? She was clearly much older than him too, but for some reason her heart still raced in the small amount of time that the two had spent together. Though it was unsure if it was him or the adrenaline of the thugs chasing one another. The falling of the sun would cause her to lift her head up as things began to grow dark around them. She'd watch as a small green flicker flashed with the sun falling behind the buildings as it always seemed to do. Though for a human's eye it would be hard to catch without some sort of special aid to improve there vision as it was such a minuscule flash that lasted but for a fraction of a second. Though it was something she always looked for, for one reason or another. She'd sniffle slightly as the water works began to retard, she'd use the boy's arm that was draped around her to wipe the snot from her nose, giggling a small amount as she did so. It was then that he'd look away from her, his words would flow through her mind constricting it and leaving it a sloppy mush. Leaving her at a loss for words. Nobody had ever said something so smooth or sweet to her before in her entire life. And she surely didn't have any intentions on meeting someone that would in a situation like this. It was funny really, she wished to help him and it seemed that their small moment together had led him to want to help her in return. Sure, they were two totally different conflicts, but it seemed everyone had a specialty in something whether they knew it to be true or not. She'd hum happily, turning and looking at him with a radiant smile. Their faces would be inches away from each other, though she didn't notice until the smiles seemed to grow a bit stale and she'd realize that this was slightly too close for comfort. Especially since the two just met. "Ep." Her face would grow flat with no expression whatsoever as she'd thrust him back softly but firmly, keeping her hands upon his shoulders as she did so to ensure he didn't fall to his ass again. She'd release her grip, looking up at the sky in search for the moon. "Say, why were those guys chasing you?" She'd try to move on from all that had just happened speaking in a rather hushed tone. Her clothes still seemed to be dripping of wine and ale. For one reason or another it didn't bother her, unsure if it was all that had just happened or if it was that her head was dry, she seemed content and comfortable for someone drenched in alcoholic beverages. ♚ BERA ♚ == @Kessler Cole == == 674 ==
Kessler gazed back at her, seeing her smile, he felt refreshed completely. The closeness didn't quite occur to him, instead, he wanted to remember this sight; it was someone he helped, someone who's smile he was able to return to them. "Beautiful--" He murmured the word after having a close look, that word spoken in barely a whisper would be hard to miss during the awkward silence, Kessler didn't really seem to understand exactly how it might be taken though, the sight of someone being brought back from horror was certainly beautiful. While her radiant smile was also very appealing, it wasn't something that donned on him as something that could be misconstrued. He looked back into her eyes for a long while, radiant ruby red eyes watching her features closely as if trying to take it all in, his small superficial injuries dotting his face was practically a staple or birthmark for him at this point. Memorizing his face wouldn't be that hard in return. Seeing her smile slowly dissolve though, he grew confused quickly. A very abrupt flatness touched her face making him tilt his head. His ears even almost popped up from beneath his hair from alarm as he watched her face flatten out and become stoic. He heard warning signs from this sudden change, but wasn't sure why, the social norm of girls and guys being too close was lost on the sheltered man who didn't have time for that sort of thing in the past. The sound of her cry caught him off guard as he was once more thrust back. Hesitating, he raised his arms up to try and brace himself this time even as she held onto his shoulders. He could feel his balance crumpling though, after all, even if his frame was petite, he was simply compact, his body was strong and fit despite his small size so the weight to be tipped was there making him stumble. In his heart, he couldn't help crying out from shock once more, feeling her pushing him again, why did this always have to happen?! He didn't have an answer, instead he felt himself falling back, Eliah's grip dragging her back with him making his mind race. He couldn't let her hit the ground, and he didn't want to hurt himself either, once more options and possibilities darted through his brain until a solution appeared. He tried to reach out his hands to cushion her fall, even if it made his own rougher, he made a solid effort to try. Oblivious to where his hands might land, he stretched them out to support her. Feeling his back hit the ground was nothing new, the jarring crash, he tilted his head up to avoid a painful or debilitating injury, once more oblivious to where his face might end up as he kept his attention on the ground behind him. In his heart of hearts, he could only hope Eliah didn't hold this against him, he'd been trying hard from the start and couldn't understand why Eliah seemed to get so flustered at times, but he didn't judge, couldn't even. Instead he only tried to soldier onward continuing to do his best as he supported the girl until she landed against him. Her weight negligible with Kessler's physical strength, he'd probably be able to carry her like a princess without getting tired after all. He winced from the pain but felt something warm against him. It was no doubt Eliah, but he didn't dare look up to see exactly what had happened. Sweating bullets, he only waited to see how things turned out, not willing to turn his head until he heard Eliah's reaction-- He wanted to have as small of a responsibility in what had happened as possible.
Nani? "Ohh-ohh, agghh!" Despite her efforts to keep the boy from falling, he still managed to do so. Didn't seem too surprising though, and honestly she wasn't at this point. Her flat face would remain as her body stiffened falling with no expression. Leaving only her tail and hair to flow with the plunge. Things seemed to slow in her eyes as she watch the animated face of Kessler shift from shock to a readiness for embrace. She had a feeling inside of her that this would not be good, the small butterfly that once led her to utter embarrassment would begin to raise from the dead making her feel fuzzy inside once more. Though nothing would be churning within, which was a relieving fact in its own. The thud of his back to the soft land would result in a small jolt in his body's motion. His hands that were held out before him planted into the girl's ribs a small oof resounded from the girls mouth as she pressed into them. She'd slide down with the soft land, piling it beneath her feet as gravity brought slid her downward with her stiff body. Though it would come to a stop as his hands met the underside of her perky bosoms, halting her further movement downward. His hands would slightly move up on them before she'd come to a complete halt. Her once blank expression would be overwhelmed with a fiery disposition, her entire being seeming to glow red. Her lips spreading, her clenched teeth would grind with fury as her eyes seemed to pop out of their sockets. Sure, the guy did break the fall and keep the two from likely touching lips. That and he probably didn't really mean to touch her in such a way, but it was just in her nature to react in such rashness. She wasn't one to just let another male touch her and not give them some sort of punishment. At least not so early on in a relationship. There'd be a prerequisite of at least a few dates and many gifts before that would ever happen. Thus, the steam would bellow from her ears and the cracks in her teeth. She'd plant her hands on the ground just outside of Kessler's shoulders and press her torso from his grasps. In doing so, she'd simultaneously bring her legs up and leave the front side of her legs and feet planted on the ground and underneath her thighs as she slammed her rear in his crotch. The pressure of this was likely to spring the boy up from the ground like pressing the middle of a dog's chew toy. Swiftly slinging her fist back to load up a powerful hit she'd gain some amount of momentum by drawing her left arm in front of her being bolting the fist toward Kessler, attemping to knock him straight in the nose. If she were to miss she'd continue to let the punches fly at a fast rate until one was to hit or until she would be at a loss of breath and energy. If the attack were to eventually land she'd stand up, recomposing herself letting out a small sigh of relief as she looked over her fist and then back up to the sky in search for the moon. It would seem as though nearly nothing had happened and the hit would result in them being "even". She'd still be a little bit teed about the whole thing, but she'd try to keep a level head for his past efforts. She didn't hate the kid, it was all just warranted and what she felt needed to be done. "Say, why were those guys chasing you?" She'd query in attempts to draw away from the previous situation. ♚ BERA ♚ == @Kessler Cole == == 633==
When he managed to support Eliah, the soft sensation communicated through his gauntlets alone let him know he was in trouble. A heavy sigh coming from his lips as he bitterly acknowledged it with a measure of understanding. The girl planting herself over him though made him gulp for a moment, looking up at her, he wasn't quite sure to respond, the softness of her frame pressed against him made him shudder as he tried desperately to escape the reality of his situation. He wanted to be somewhere else! He just wanted to help! "Kami-sama, WHY?!?" He cried out internally, but the reality was unfortunately different, a wave of defeat washed over him and he knew that no matter what stance he took or what, he was doomed from the moment they were arranged in this position. In the net moment, Eliah would probably see something she would never have expected, just as she drew her fist back. His eyes grew moist and glossy quickly, ruby red eyes growing large with anxiety knowing how Eliah would react. His boyish expression twisted into one that was particularly bitter and filled with a meek resentment and self-loathing. Not wanting to see it coming, Kessler turned his gaze away with a measure of despair. From on top of him Eliah would be able to feel Kessler's compact frame shudder and tremble from fear but he didn't try to beg or fight. Lifting a hand to Eliah's legs trying to brace himself for the pain he was expecting, he waited for his judgement to come down with an expression and demeanor that made it seem as if he was waiting to be executed by a guillotine or hanged. The fiery gaze alone was tragic enough for the poor guy, this on top of the promise of pain was enough to make him wither. At a glance, it was a sight Eliah might not be familiar with. It was as if she was some kind of attacker or pervert trying to take advantage of this poor innocent boy who was already unable to curl up any tighter from her pressing down on him from above. His innocent turned away demeanor that tried not to watch only made such a scene more plausible; there's no telling what who would think if they were to come across this sort of sight of Eliah threatening him in such a position while he was on the verge of tears silently waiting for her to finish him off. To make matters worse, his heart couldn't stop pounding, he'd not really been close to a girl before, and was trying his best not to do anything unreasonable for her sake. It was a battle he was unfortunately losing as he kept his eyes turned away as they approached full on tears faster and faster. In the end though, Kessler couldn't stop Eliah or make her realize just how much this effected or frightened him. If she didn't realize it, he couldn't really point it out without downplaying her own injustice, it simply wasn't something he would do. If she still wanted to throw the punch, he'd take it however brutally Eliah planned on delivering it, but if she did strike him-- As if she were striking his heart those tears would fall very quickly. Unwilling to accept the blow with his nose, he'd try to take it in the cheek or eye if she threw it down without caring, but if she was intending to blow him away in the front, she'd end up having to take a few swings to land it properly as he resisted with futility. If it did land, then there was no doubt he'd have more injuries on his face, this time from someone he wanted to help-- That was what frightened him the most. If Eliah did strike him, Kessler wouldn't recover after she stood up, he'd instead begin to slowly curl himself into a ball as if anticipating more-- As if this had unwittingly touched on a trauma from his childhood he'd find it hard to react initially. If she restrained herself and didn't strike down, he'd be a lot more calmer and on his feet as he responded, but exactly how things went was in fate's hands. "I... I was trying to help an old man who was being extorted... They were trying to steal money from his cart for gambling but-- I didn't see the other members of their group before shouting at them." He admitted clearly not over what had just happened completely
Tch... whatever. What the? Why is he...? Am I really... Am I really doing that to him? She pondered to herself as her hand hesitated beside her head, shaking with the tension of her overly tight clenched fist. For one reason or another, the sight of Eliah willingly trying to inflict pain on the boy seemed to have some sort of traumatic affect to his emotions. Which, not only surprised her but also made her feel extremely bad for her actions. As there was no way that any of this that had happened up to this point was intentional. The only thing that seemed to be true and righteous about all of this was the way Kessler treated Eliah, despite what had happened. Even though what she had done was completely human and what he did was just an utter acceptance of her being such, it wasn't every day that someone would go out on a limb for someone like that and take the blame for their embarrassing actions. She owed him, and this was really going to be the way she'd repay him? Was she this lowly of a human? Yeah. She'd shake off her previous thoughts letting her hand come down thundering toward the boys head. Her teeth clenched as she readied herself for the painful bone-to-bone impact of the brutish attack. A thud would resonate, though the sound wouldn't be that of flesh hitting flesh. Dirt would likely get flung up onto the boy's face, but no harm would come to him. Eliah would suck her teeth before letting out a sigh as she got up and asked her question. She had chosen the righteous path this time, and she'd leave it just where it was. The kid was sweet and all, but he was rather pitiful to her. If taking the punishment for wrongfully touching a woman was something that he was against then what was he for? Though he did turn his head to take the blow, the tears were surely unwarranted and indefinitely a cry for help. He was lucky that he was such a coward, otherwise, his face would be in another world of pain. As he came to his feet Eliah would shift her sights to the lad, ensuring that he didn't get too close to her this time so that he wouldn't fall or anything like that. He seemed to be kind to the ground, visiting it rather often and all. Luckily he'd keep his distance settled to where the two fell down, though he seemed to calm himself down since she had decided not to decimate his visage. Ah, he was trying to help someone... guess he's just one of those people that are constantly doing the right thing. Respectable, but... I don't know. She thought to herself, trying not to judge him too much about it all, though she didn't really understand it. "I'm sorry..." It was hard to believe that he would help somebody that owed a debt to another person, so her tone wasn't exactly sincere at all. She was actually rather perplexed about the whole statement and his actions "You do realize that they weren't stealing his money, right? If he gambled the money and lost, that is now their money. Not his." She dropped her head and shook it in dismay, "Like what? It's kinda humorous, I suppose..." She rubbed her forehead, her hair brushing along with it as she smiled and laughed slightly as she spoke. "Oh well, guess they can try again tomorrow. I do suppose there are more civil ways to get what you want too. Not everyone needs to know the man is a gambler. Serves him right, though." She'd continue to explain before tossing her hands behind her head like every anime's main character would do in this sort of conversation. Her gaze would reach the moon once more, she was always mesmerized by its beauty and the relationship it held with the Earth. ♚ BERA ♚ == @Kessler Cole == == 662==
Kessler tensed briefly when the fist swung down, but seeing that it didn't strike him he was clearly a bit relieved. It wasn't so much that he was opposed to being hit... but being restrained was a very real fear for Kessler. Mounted in a position where he couldn't move had opened up some old wounds as he remembered being buried and pain. It was only when she got up that he managed to slowly catch his breath. Reaching a hand up to wipe his face abruptly, as if embarrassed by it, he couldn't help feeling a great deal of shame. He became an adventurer to be stronger, to fight his fears and grow strong enough that nothing could force him into a helpless position like that again, but against Eliah who he didn't want to fight back against, he couldn't think of another option. When his face was finally dry, he rose to his feet, a little unsteady at first. Looking at Eliah who was talking back to him he could only let out a weary chuckle. "N-No, that's not quite it..." He explained shaking his head. "They were trying to rob him-- So that they could have money that they would then latter use to gamble..." He tried to explain the situation as he knew it. It wasn't that the old man owed them a debt, but they were trying to get more money to blow on gambling so they targeted an old man. Kessler wasn't so naive to fight back against a group he could have tried mediation with. With Eliah's apology though, Kessler shook his head, a dry chuckle coming from him once more, she was apologizing for him touching her? No, it was probably because she saw his shameful appearance. "No-- You don't have to apologize for that... It wasn't-- Wasn't even because you were going to hit me but... I just-- I get really worried being held down or tied up and... Well... I end up like-- Like that." He admitted, knowing it was a shameful thing, it was perhaps the deepest of shames Kessler had, but he couldn't let Eliah feel apologetic for threatening him. If it was as simple as that he would accept it and bare the pain for her, but being held down made his blood freeze in his veins and his mind stall. "Please, don't-- I mean... Well... I hope you don't think badly of me for it." He spoke, wanting to ask her not to judge him too harshly but realizing it was an improper and forceful request, he tried to rephrase it. Feeling weak towards the end of his words that made his voice crack a bit from shame and self-hate that flared up once more. That hate quickly turned into rage, and was quickly channeled into motivation. Wiping away the shame from his face, Kessler took a sturdy stance, his legs widening to a shoulder's with, a foreleg for balance, and a back leg to brace himself. Giving his own face a soft slap, building his motivation that was already roaring and blazing, his gaze grew sharp as Eliah focused on the moon. It was only after a short while of making sure there wouldn't be a mistake, Kessler finally gestured at her with both hands. "Alright-- This time I'm ready. I've done something that shouldn't be done no matter what-- I can't just let that go." He took a sharp inhale and exhale, his stance firm as he gestured once more beckoning to her with open arms. "I'm ready this time, hit me until you feel better-- I'll take it all so let it all out." He spoke facing her with clear eyes. Perhaps a strange thing to be so serious for, he'd already gotten through the hurdle, if he let it go he wouldn't have to feel pain, he could have escaped, but he'd committed an injustice, whether intentional or not it wasn't important, he needed to face consequences at the very least.
Tch... whatever. "Right... ok. I knew that. It was just the way you worded it that made me think that I guess." Quick to ensure that it was not her mistake but his for the incorrect assumption she had made about his prior engagement. She was always quick to blame others for her own misunderstandings, she sought to find the missing pieces in their information just so that she could feel as though she was the one in the right. It was a rather distasteful attribute of hers, but she was far from perfect and loved herself for who she was. So where was the reasoning to change? It was clear that the boy had misunderstood Eliah. Just as she had misunderstood him, he was now misunderstanding her. The apology wouldn't even be anywhere directed toward his previous acts while he was weeping on the ground. No, they'd be directed at his previous words about the cart owner and his run in with the thugs. It was only but a small pause that separated the statements, so she could see where something could be misunderstood, however, it was but a preamble to her following questions and statements. Nonetheless, she'd let it fall through and continue on with the conversation. She'd shrug about not having to apologize as he said and would listen in on the other words he spoke wanting to call bullshit on all of it. As that's what it sounded like was just a big bucket of cow manure. There was no way that the kid felt that way, it had to be a lie that's what she thought at least. He wished for her to not judge him, but that was too late. She'd chuckle softly as though the sound only coming from her nose as the right side of her mouth rose up with a smirk. Throwing her hands to the side she'd respond, "Well, you're a day late and a gold piece short on that one. The moment I saw those eyes water up... I knew that you were a wuss." Her back would be to him so she'd not see him readying up his stance behind her as he grew with motivation. Her gaze still set to the moon as she thought about why it always decided to stick with the Earth for so long. Even after the Earth had turned from such a beautiful thing to something that would make your nose turn. A once green and luscious beauty the plans used to be, filled with wildlife that acted on instinct and not emotion. It was hard to understand that after all this time the moon still worked to keep up with the Earth's bullshit. That was the type of relationship that she yearned for, one that was undying and saw everything about the being both the good in the bad, in the light and in the dark. Though the majority of their time together would be held in a dark state, it would still carry on through the dark times and resume its natural duty as its servant. The moon was indefinitely the greatest lover to this planet. She sought to find her own moon one day. Her shoulders jumped at the alarming sound of the boy's heightened voice, it seemed that he had come upon a sense of vigor since just seconds ago. She shook her head trying to wrap her mind around what exactly was going on, but soon his words would make it all clear and his gestures would better alleviate that to her. She'd raise a brow at him before smirking. "If you think that hitting you is going to make me feel better..." She'd pause and brush her hair from the side of her face. "Completely right." Her teeth would be set loose by the guarding lips that held them captive. She'd slowly walk up to the lad that had decided to man up and place her left hand on his shoulder. "Don't take this the wrong way, but a man should never violate a woman's privacy in such a way and go unscathed for it. Your tears seemed to be enough punishment to me, but if you insist then I suppose I can't resist. Saying no would be the same thing as refusing a food or drink offering, wouldn't it? Shameful." She'd explain before she wound up her right hand and swiftly dug it into his abdomen, using her entire right side of her body for momentum and strength. The hit was likely to at least bring him up from his feet for a tiny fraction of a second. If he'd bend with the blow she'd slide her left hand to the back of his neck, her delicate fingers tapping upon it one by one. "Now, I thought I'd be alright just hitting you once. Though, I feel like there is more that needs to be beaten into you. You realize that the way you handled yourself early was cowardly correct?" She'd wait for a simple yes or no answer, not leaving much time for anything else. As she attempted to lift his head by the back of his neck slightly and bring her knee thrusting up as she shoved his head back down to his knee. If he'd let her do it she'd try to guide his head back up to her own. "What makes you think that you aren't a coward right now for letting someone beat you so easily? Does the fact that I'm a girl make me less of a warrior than you? You claim yourself to be some sort of hero or something? That's what you act like at least. Running to the aid of something that has nothing to do with you. That's what a hero does, they act blindly and foolishly because they seem something that they are against and think they should do something about it. Well, that's wrong. That's how you die a hero and are forgotten in a short time." She'd speak to him sternly with pressed lips, pressing his neck and jerking it around as she spoke to him. "Tell me." She'd attempt to thrust his neck to the side, and use her right arm to help guide him to the ground by his torso with shear force. If he'd fall easily as he did the entire time the two had been out here then she'd climb aboard just as she was before, forcing him back into this fearful state of his. "Right, so here we are again. The home of your cowardly attempts. What do you do now? Cry, or do you wait for a hero to show up? Y'know there is a third choice? You can be a warrior and fight only when it is right and show your fangs when danger confronts you, not when you confront danger. A warrior doesn't seek retribution and lets it result in death. They strike when they know the strike will hit, they defend when they know they can do so in victory. They don't let their emotions guide them blindly into battle, they control their emotions and let them drive them to hunt their foe and strike them at their weakest point as they do to their victims. You don't have to stand above someone to be greater than them. All you have to do is have the right reasons for your actions and honor will claim its natural habitat. There are no rules to battle, just the wise and the fool. A fool's path is that of a hero, though they are typically noble they always die early deaths. Some are written into history while others remain forever forgotten. Would you really wish to take a hero's path for that small slither of a chance to be remembered by people? Or would rather remain here fighting for these morals and beliefs that you may have as a warrior?" If the kid hadn't decided to start the water works once more or retaliate, she'd throw another punch to his cheek. "Either way, you won't be remembered so if it's glory you seek then you're a fool like the rest of the heroes. Honor and respect can be found within the warrior's path as well you just have to cut the path to your own liking." She'd slam her fist into his cheek once more. "It's a shame that a girl has to tell you this, though, I guess the Runarl learn this the hard way as our homes have always been raided and pillaged." She'd draw back her final punch, ensuring that a heavy amount of strength was placed into it so that she could release all the anger and frustration that was built up inside of her about the man that had just run into her life with others chasing her, it caused her to be a hero for a small moment. After she had reevaluated it again within her mind as they ran, she had realized that it was something that was she surely could have handled. The large men were all brutes and handled themselves in a slower manner than she operated at. She had realized that her mind worked fast enough to make that decision as an instinct and that her natural gut instinct was the path of the warrior no matter the situation. She would never act upon something that she knew was a lost fight. Thus, the last punch would be attempted as it flurried to Kessler's face, she felt no remorse for her previous actions as it seemed the kid needed to wake up and grow a pair. She could only hope that he would hear her out and take heed to what she had said to him. After all, she did think highly of the kid for his previous actions, however, it was starting to don on her that he was just a wuss overall. He was what a lot of women considered to be "too nice", it had its ups and downs to it, sure. If she was going to stick around him and decide to be his friend, though, she'd have to put her foot down now rather than lead him on to believe she was content with him and do it later. ♚ BERA ♚ == @Kessler Cole == == 1716==
Kessler hesitated hearing her accuse him of wording it poorly. He coultn't help a vaguely bitter expression on his face in response to her words about his poor choice of words. Was that right-- "Probably not... Right?" he thought laughing internally even if his expression was somewhat sour. "Y-Yeah, I guess... Maybe?" He spoke with a weary laugh unable to hold it in a bit. The girl was far too similar to someone he knew well. Though the speeds they moved were different, she certainly shared a lot of common ground with his supporter. The way they act and their efforts to suppress him were more or less the same. Eliah's words about him being a wuss however hit a bit harder. Kessler was very aware of his meek demeanor, it was no doubt the reason why his Goddess appreciated him so much as well, there were a lot of people who truly admired Kessler for his frail style. Eliah didn't seem to be one of them though, it was a little different from what he expected, truly he was used to people trying to support him, but Eliah seemed almost as sick of it as he was himself. While it was refreshing, he couldn't quite agree faintly. Kessler knew he wasn't really the most courageous individual, but if it was for others, he wasn't afraid of throwing himself into a sea of fire or walking a mountain of swords. His courage was only ever roused when there was someone's happiness at stake, and his ire was only stroked when others needlessly oppressed others. Though his courage was stimulated a lot more often then his anger, he didn't see himself as weak. Naturally though he couldn't exactly deny that without motivation he was very much a coward though, a weary chuckle coming from his lips. "I-I guess... A wuss though huh?" He murmured with a self-conflicted smile. It wasn't something he should argue; people were entitled to their opinions right? What right did he have to try and call her wrong if she felt that way about him? He didn't really feel much of a need to argue it either considering how meek he could be either. "That's... Probably not-- Not completely wrong?" He answered with a wry expression. While Eliah wanted and desired the moon who stuck by it's companion no matter what, there were certainly traits of such a relationship that Kessler shared whether she noticed them or not. Rather then the beauty of the moon and earth though, Kessler found more beauty in the sun that shone during the day. The sun that shined brightly; lighting the way for others to follow, shedding light on the negativity of the world so they could be solved, providing warmth for everyone no matter whether they were right or wrong. It was for this reason Kessler admired his Goddess who was personified from the Sun, why he wanted so badly not to disappoint her who was the very thing he idolized and watched from afar with nothing but admiration and hope... But no matter how foolish or naive Kessler was, he didn't believe he could be a sun. He didn't think he could rise up and join his Goddess in showering people with positivity. Seeing her suddenly cocking her arm back, whether Eliah would notice it or not, Kessler's pupils would narrow into a slit. His focus sharpening, his gaze hardening as she spoke to him. He only nodded back, content that this would make his benefactor, a friend feel better. A hero shouldn't do such a thing after all, even accidentally, he could only accept it as she swung her hand forward, his mind began to race. "Poor stance-- Bad rotation-- No problem." The conclusion he came to was swift as she buried her fist in his chest just as he'd exhale all of the breath in his lungs and tighten his torso as the blow landed. Eliah would feel the strike landing squarely in his stomach as if punching through layers of soft quilts, the force of blow seemed to disappear into his body. He didn't take a step back from the blow, his foreleg rose a tad, but quickly stepped back down to reset his stance as he answered after filling his lungs once more as his mind continued to dart around. "Not finished--" "I-I was cowardly, but--" "Weak power-- Not a blow-- Clenching-- I can't take it head on--" were the thoughts coming through his mind as he washed Eliah's arm pushing him back to try and bring him back down. His head turned down sharply to meet her knee with the arch of his forehead where his skull was the thickest. It might hurt her knee some, but Kessler needed his wits. Being dazed would only lead to further problems. Being pulled back up to meet Eliah face to face again, he let out a meek chuckle as he answered her. His bright smile on, but was visibly frail as he answered. "I am a coward... I guess. There are plenty of women stronger-- braver then me even... More heroic then me even." He spoke, his mind flashing once more to the image of a hide dressed bard who would fight without fear as a woman for other women. Who even without strength like Kessler wouldn't shed a tear no matter the problems she faced and would persist no matter the obstacles. Recalling the vibrant smile she'd always wear while telling him tales about girls and make sexual innuendos much to his chagrin. If there was a 'hero' he would label her as one before any other. "I'm-- I--" He started, but feeling her pushing him, his eyes widened. "Not good--!!" He felt himself falling once more, and the softness of her body mounting his once more returned. His mind blanked, as he stared up at her clearly dazed as she talked down to him. He simply listened to her talk, blankly watching her face as the words came out. His memories of the traumatic event of being buried flashed through his head making him uneasy, it could perhaps be seen in his eyes, but his memory of that event was unfortunately clear. He didn't escape that oppression with the help of someone else... He didn't wait until it was over either. "I... I'm not qualified to be a 'hero'. I'm-- I'm not the type to just 'wait it out' either... But I'm not enough of a 'realist' to be a 'warrior'." He admitted, flashing a bright but meek smile up at her, not fighting back, not yet in tears either as he stammered through his words. Feeling her fist coming down from above, it struck him hard enough to make him cough, if he'd had his wits, he would have been able to rotate away, but he was having trouble focusing on 'the fight' in this position. "Something like 'glory', or 'honor' and 'respect'... I don't need something like that-- I don't need other people to value me." When she swung down to hit him again, talking about it being a shame that a girl had to be the one who lectured him, it brought him back to the people in his life who influenced him the most. His Goddess of the Sun, The Bard Supporter, His Crippled Mother, all of his life women in his life had been the ones to 'teach' him things and show him the way. "I.. It shouldn't be a bad thing for me to learn from girls but--" He tried to retort as her final fist swung down with more strength then before, channeling her frustration and disdain for his actions into the blow, it was quite a bit stronger as it landed making his head jerk from the force. While she was lost in thought, Kessler's memory of that time being buried flashed back once more. It was the first time in his life his skills had activated, Berserk Fury that numbed him to his core, and Tyrants Fists that stained his hands red with the blood of people who were being the real heroes in trying to rescue him. "I don't WANT to be a Hero." He spoke as Eliah would be able to feel a pressure building beneath her. Kessler's eyes grew redder as he continued to speak. "I don't NEED people's respect or honors-- I don't NEED glory." He spoke gritting his teeth as 'Berserk Fury' took hold, the marks of a War Tiger on his cheeks growing visible, his ears rising as fury and viciousness filled his normally kind gaze. "I WANT to help people-- I don't care if they want it or not! Even if they curse me, even if they shower me with garbage in the streets I WILL NOT care." He spoke as the fierceness in his gaze grew stronger as he looked up at her. He began to slowly use force to try and lift his body up without fighting back. Even as his hands clawed rivets into the ground from exertion. "If I have to walk the Monster's Path to make that happen-- Then so be it! I will become a monster that murders, pillages and steals to slaughter the shadows-- A wuss that lets the innocent take bites out of him, A coward that hides from the truth of his transformation, but I WILL NOT let you-- ANYONE-- Tell me to change my ways." Pushing his way up from beneath Eliah with strength, Kessler rose up to his feet as he spoke firmly. "If you don't like it..." He spoke turning that sharp gaze down on Eliah, the volatile and overwhelming blood thirst and murderous intent poured out from every pore on his body as he reached a hand out for her. "... Then you can always join me... And make sure I don't die so easily." He spoke offering his hand to help her up.
Maybe next time. Eliah threw her arm up to guard her face as he began to retaliate. Although his retaliation wouldn't be physical, at least not aimed at her. His face would change to something of a high fury and he would expose the ears that were once hidden. He had shown these traits before, though it was rather confusing to Eliah. It must have been a skill that he had that was tied in with the other race or races he was. She was unsure of it all, though, and could only act in shock keeping her guard up if he so chose to swing back at her. It was strange, though. He wouldn't do such it was as though the things she had said to him had forced him to tap into his inner powers and show his true nature. She'd lower her guard as he continued to speak, listening carefully to his words before she was thrown from his body and to her rear as he came up from the ground. She was astonished that he held the power to do so after she had put so much work into harming his body. A harsh feeling came upon her as he towered over her extending a hand to her direction. Her brow furrowed for a moment before she had decided that if he was going to harm her he would have done so by now. It just seemed as though this was an entirely different person. Sure they had the same morals, but the sheer strength and power that laid in his words were overwhelming, surely he felt the same way somewhere deep inside. Though had found a way to harness the power and use it to his benefit. It was rather impressive and it was obvious that Eliah had the wrong idea of him, perhaps. She'd raise her hand to his, swatting it away before turning over and helping herself up. "Tsk." She'd suck her teeth before turning back to Kessler with a smirk on her face. "Some flashy markings and fangs aren't going to make me think you're different from the other heroes. You'll remain a puppet to those in need for the rest of your existence. I can't serve with someone that is so selfless that they can't take their own worth into consideration and just rush into battle..." She'd explain with a certain sternness to her voice as her voice would fade toward the end. She'd turn the other direction and begin to walk away from the kid permanently. "Perhaps we'll be different in the next life, who knows?" She stated, waving a hand behind her. ♚ BERA ♚ == @Kessler Cole == == 440 ==
Kessler's kind smile didn't fade, though with the volatile and malevolent air about him it might be a lot more intimidating then he thought in his mind. Though hearing her response about his war tiger markings and his ears, he couldn't help a weary chuckle. "Haha, become a 'hero' you say. My mom was the war tiger in my family, she was small like me too, but people the guild classified her as a 'Natural Disaster' for insurance claims. I don't think this sort of thing... suits me very much." He explained with a weary chuckle since Eliah was so quick to question him, he turned the hand she swatted away towards a barrel behind the bar. You could tell he only applied a soft and gentle pressure to the barrel, but even so his fingers slid into the wood like it was made out of clay or sand. The sight made Kessler a little sad, but when he pulled his hand back, he left claw prints in the barrel without even having nails on his smooth armored hands. "I'm too much of a coward to let myself be a puppet for other people, even if they are kind or innocent." He admitted suddenly swinging his arm sharply through the air. Like a blade cleaving through the breeze, his arm cut through the air letting go of his murderous rage, channeling his aggression into the air with that sharp swing, he let it out with a fierce sweep that would probably have torn a hole through a building. Exhaling the rest of that ill intent, he couldn't help a weary laugh as his marks began to fade and his ears slowly curled down into their docile position. "A Puppet is someone that can be moved by others too... I don't want something like that. I want to enforce my own justice-- A Puppet wouldn't be able to do that." He said with a meek chuckle. Though hearing her talk about meeting in another life, Kessler could only wearily watch her back. He knew that there were many who didn't approve of his ideals, his weakness or cowardly nature but his heart wasn't strong enough to be truly oppressive yet. Someday... perhaps, but not now. He still needed to grow and learn. Watching Eliah leave, Kessler could only sigh as he slowly picked up the towels trying to clean up a little before leaving himself.
