(New thread!)

[honeybee.]

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Ella Brie
Location: Palace
Tags: Alastair
Date: Day After Fivana Fiasco
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Ella beamed as the Prince agreed to join her for a picnic, knowing she was one step closer to home. She hoped the 'princenapping' would go quickly and painlessly, for the Phoenix Squad but also for Prince Alastair. Once he'd been captured she was sure it would be easier for everyone if he was unharmed and, though she might deny it, from what she'd seen of him so far she wasn't sure she wanted the chivalrous prince to face any unnecessary cruelty.


The sound of footsteps followed by an apologetic look by Alastair and the Emperor was in the room with them. Ella did her best to ignore the feeling of dread that crept up inside her whenever he came anywhere near. If she slipped up, if he had any suspicion of what she really was, she knew it would be her head that rolled next. The Prince immediately dropped back into his exhausted act when his father entered the room and Ella shuffled a little to the side to be out of his way but the towering man didn't even aknowledge her. When an execution was mentioned Ella's stomach twisted into knots. What had she missed? Who was it this time? Traitors were executed and those traitors were usually rebels, with familiar faces and familiar names. Perhaps not people she'd ever spoken to, but often those that she'd passed in the earthen corridors of HQ as a child. Every time she had to watch an execution she would end up dreaming about one of her friends or her siblings or her parents down there and awake shuddering in the night. She couldn't help but feel a little panicked at the thought that perhaps one of the Phoenix Squad had been captured during their mission in Fivana. What if it was Lanette?


When Alastair began to speak Ella realised that perhaps she knew why he was putting on this show but the Emperor's reply, though slow and measured, was threatening enough to make her take another step back. Alastair was persistent though, and continued talking in his polite, well thought-out manner that made his father's reply seem even more shocking in comparison. Ella knew that Alastair and his father often didn't agree but for all the evil Emperor Brungard held within him, she never though he'd strike his son. Her hand shot to her mouth to stifle a tiny gasp as the sound of the slap echoed around her. Still, even that was less shocking than hearing the familiar name of the person who was to be executed. Hope. Arrietta's father and the son of Samuel Brie, her mother's cousin, who was being tortured for information. Or at least he had been, another shot of panic went through her when she wondered if he'd finally caved in and revealed the location of headquarters to the Emperor. Why else would they be executing him now? But the sound of the door closing and Alastair's voice reminded her that she couldn't afford to feel right now, she had her own mission.


The Prince seemed angry, even as he apologised and offered an explanation.
"I don't think it's me that needs worrying about." She reached up and turned his head, carefully to avoid smudging the make-up, checking to make sure that the slap hadn't broken the skin. It wasn't a romantic gesture, but that of a healer worrying about even the smallest injury.
"I have all I need here." She gestured to the hamper she still held in one hand, "Leaving soon sounds like a wonderful idea."
Ella couldn't wait to leave the palace, especially with the Emperor in such a mood, and leaving early would perhaps give the Prince a chance to actually enjoy the picnic before the Phoenix Squad arrived. She couldn't help to feel rather guilty once more about what she was about to do to him. Especially since it seemed that he had just saved the life of her best friend's dad, or at least preserved it for another day.


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Brenn Lucast a
Location: Train Tags:
Onyx
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Brenn chuckled as Onyx spoke their thought process aloud and came to the conclusion as to why the wheelie bin was used. He nodded at the idea of extra credit for the buffet.
"Oh, but I wish I could have brought you something back. They had real meat, Onyx, none of that bug powder. And actual fruit, in every colour you could possibly imagine."
When his friend found themself a comfy position on next to him on the train seat Brenn also brought his knees up, mimicking Onyx's position. The train felt so much safer and more comfortable than the mission they had just been on that he almost hoped that the train would be delayed and they could stay here for the rest of the week.


Brenn made no comment as Onyx quickly switched their words to prevent from calling the woman who birthed them 'mother'. He knew she was an unpleasant lady, even if Onyx didn't often display the emotions to show it, and couldn't help but feel anger that anyone could show anything less than love and warmth towards his best friend.
"You would revolutionise Sixney." Brenn informed them, "Perhaps I would be mayor of Fivana." He decided, "It's where Dad is from, and I'm kind of going to miss all these colours. We would be neighbours! I'd probably want to teach the Fivanian's a little common sense though." Despite his mother being Twodorian, and perhaps Twodor and all its hugs being a little more Brenn's style, he barely contemplated it. Perhaps because for as long as he'd known his mother, Ceri Lucasta was not very Twodorian. She was too angry, focused only on vengeance for her 'eldest' son. She may have had Brenn and his sister but they were born as tools for the rebellion and she'd never love them as much as she had loved her first-born. Still, Brenn could never claim that she didn't care for them and perhaps he would change his mind if they ever visited Twodor.


When Onyx asked about them being late back for the mission Brenn began chewing his lip before bursting out with, "Caleb died." He'd had time to think about what had happened now, but it didn't seem to be getting any easier to cope with. "Obviously not permanently or anything." He clarified, since Caleb was quite clearly not dead. "But James hit in the neck with a knife and we had to watch him bleed to death, there on the floor. He appeared right back behind us but.. but I can't see anyone else die, Onyx! Not Lanette, not Gavotte, not Naevys, not even Jen and certainly not you!" He shuddered just at the thought, speaking softly so as to not wake anyone despite the emotion in his voice. "But we're rebels, that's what we're supposed to do. We're meant to be willing to die.. to die for our cause. And what can we even do about it? If we don't do it, people will die anyway under Emperor Brungard." He relaxed a little after his outburst of emotions, some of the weight on his chest lifted. "Sorry, I guess it was a little traumatic." He looked sheepish, "It's Caleb that should be stressed out. Not me."

[cocogerber13]

Caleb Oxenbera——————————
♠︎ // Phoenix Squad Recruit // Beast Summoning // Tags: Lanette, open

Caleb scratched the back of his neck when Lanette pressured him to give himself some credit, glancing uneasily to the floor of the train car. “Seriously, I barely did anything this time. I only helped find Midas Tower, which is admittedly not a hard task with how golden it is.” The boy joked but took the scoldings. At the mention of her stubbornness he threw up his hands in front of his chest. “Ah. In that case, then maybe I did do a little work...” This was no mocking gesture; Lanette truly did have a remarkable amount of determination, something that made Caleb glad she was on their side.

As he observed Lanette’s face when he spoke, the thought briefly crossed his mind that he should just keep what happened to himself a secret. He quickly decided against it however, and not just because he had just mentioned it aloud. Arietta would have used her ability to find something out but moreso Caleb didn’t want Brenn and Sonata to not voice their worries. It was probably worse for them than the actual dying part that he did and obviously Caleb wished for them to get the support they needed.

The dark-haired boy close down his eyes and gently waved off the offer. “I’m okay, seriously. And I guess I have my ability to thank for that, but I’m more worried about Sonnie and Brenn. They watched it all happen, which I expect won’t do their consciences well. I’ll try to comfort them myself if they want it though, and I’d rather you not overwork yourself.” Caleb responded quietly.

He leaned back into his seat more, the occasional rocking of the train lulling him into a more drowsy state. Yet despite the call of sleep Caleb forced his eyes open. He’d watch out for his teammates’ stop alongside their big sister Atlanta. The conversation with Lanette was luckily taking his mind off of the timeless effect of the train as well, though if she was as tired as she looked then he would leave the topic at that.

———

Onyx Carriado——————————
♣︎ // Phoenix Squad Recruit // Acrobat // Tags: train, Brenn

Onyx perked up a bit when Brenn started talking about food. Ah, that’s what a buffet was! Onyx’s eyes rounded as they imagined the things their friend described, only having mouthwatering images from their books to recall but seeing the food vividly in his mind. “S-seriously? Do you think... Senegal would let us have a feast at some point? Oh, what if there’s a food car on this train...” the kid mentally started plotting ways for them to get the chance to eat well. Maybe if they tried to persuade one of the older rebels back at headquarters, they could bring something back?

Onyx shook their head at the thought after finding that the discussion only made them hungrier. They mustn’t get their hopes up if they were just going to return to bug powder anyway.

At Brenn’s support of their ambitions, Onyx beamed back at him. “That’d be great! We could even help each other out if we need it. I mean, ideally that would happen all throughout Delra, but I’m talking if-you-run-out-of-insect-powder then just moonshoe-bounce on over!” The raven-haired teen snickered. Onyx recalled what they knew of Brenn’s father, but then their thoughts strayed to the rest of his family. His mother specifically hadn’t seemed very friendly or warm when Onyx had met her, nor did she appear to show any different to her own son. Hopefully they could both meet the more stereotypical twodorians when they actually went there with the rest of their squadron. For now though, they’d have to base it off of Mum Senegal.

Onyx’s eyes widened at Brenn’s outburst. Their mouth moved to speak but nothing came out, and instead they just slowly looked over to Caleb. Their teammate seemed perfectly fine, if not a bit scratched up and tired, and was currently talking to Lanette. Violet eyes moved back to their companion at the part about not being permanent. “Wh... how?” They mumbled but silenced themself once their pal started his explanation. Though Onyx didn’t really understand it in the slightest, the panic in the other rebel’s voice brought their hand to his shoulder to comfort him. “Listen, that sounds... really bad. And totally not something you should have witnessed, but he’s all right now! I don’t know how he did it but maybe he knew what he was doing?” Onyx spoke calmly but couldn’t hide a bit of loose curiosity in their voice. “We’ve been training for this. It wasn’t our choice but it is our responsibility. Even if we’re standing on shaky legs right now I’m sure we can make it! Everyone did this time, right? Even Caleb, the freaking zombie.” Onyx tried to reassure, slinging their arm over Brenn in an awkward side hug. They weren’t exactly the type to give speeches or advice, but for those they cared about they would sure as hell try.

Onyx snorted at the apology. “Dude, you literally just witnessed one of your teammates die and come back, right? I’d warrant that as ‘someone who needs friend therapy’!” On the words ‘friend therapy’, Onyx bear-hugged Brenn, then moved back to their original position because a train full of a tired Phoenix squad is not a very good place for one to pounce on sad friends like Onyx often did.

———

Jade Aubourm——————————
♢ // Phoenix Squad Recruit // Healing // Tags: HQ, Senegal

Jade felt warmth flood over her as she was embraced by Senegal, her roars hushed to quiet sobs and whimpers of irritation. Why couldn’t she have gone with with others? At the very least this allowed the opportunity for the tiny terror to allow herself to be comforted. After all, her own mothers were the same way; true twodorians that spoiled their only daughter.

Held now in the arms of the revolution’s leader, Jade hid her face in Senegal’s clothing. She was fine with showing weakness but she didn’t want her tears to shake the Phoenix mum. “The mums wouldn’t let me go with the others on their mission... just because I tore up the dumb training dummy...” She hiccuped, the words muffled from her hidden face. As soon as she spoke the words her pent up frustration and betrayal seemed to vanish into exhaustion. Perhaps it was the fact that Jade had been raging and breaking things all day and she finally caught a break, or perhaps it was just the effect that mummy Senegal had on her. No matter the case the blonde had been lulled into a new state of calmness thanks to the older woman.

[marimo.]

▁ ▂ ▄ ▅ ▆ ▇ █ αяуѕ ѕℓαтє █ ▇ ▆ ▅ ▄ ▂ ▁

❝ιf ι ¢αи вє σf αиу нєℓρ, ι'ℓℓ єνєи вє¢σмє α яєαℓ мσиѕтєя❞

~18~Female~Werewolf~Mood: pls send help~Location: sanctuary -> train~Tags: Naevys~Mentions: team~

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Arys follows her teammates back into the sanctuary, head bowed. Out of the corners of her eyes, she can see relieved faces as the three of them appear from the shadows, but she refuses to make eye contact. The tornado of emotions inside of her is almost too much, and she doesn't want to deal with more than she has to.
As the rest of her squad heads to the train, she lingers in the back, unwilling to walk with anyone. A thought flashes through her head that she can just leave, forget all of this and everything that happened. It might be difficult for a little bit, but if she could get to Ninon, no one would find her there. She could live in the woods as a wolf and never have to talk to anyone again. But one look at the everyone squashes that thought. She loves them too much to let them go. They're her family, and she could never leave them. Guilt slices through her for even considering the possibility.
As the team boards the train, Arys is relieved to see they have an entire car to themselves. Hopping up on one of the benches next to Ardai, she's happy to see Naevys sit next to her. She feels significantly closer to the two after everything that happened. When Naevys' hand hovers over her fur, she dips her head to give him permission. She's used to little kids in HQ treating her like a pet, badgering her for pets and rides, which she normally tolerates, but with the team, it's different. There's an air of respect, as they generally leave her be, but she's happy to let them hug her or pet her if they need a therapy pet.
Speaking of therapy... The wolf can't help but notice Gavotte sitting in the corner, not talking to anyone, just looking out the window despondently. He looks so sad, but at the same time, so angry. When she is human again, she'll have to ask him if he's okay. She'd do it now, but exhaustion washes over her, and she lets herself drift into unconsciousness.
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˜”*°•.˜”*°•𝔻𝕒𝕜𝕠𝕥𝕒 "𝕌𝕞𝕓𝕣𝕒" 𝕊𝕥𝕖𝕖𝕝•°*”˜.•°*”˜

❝𝕎𝕙𝕒𝕥 𝕕𝕠 𝕪𝕠𝕦 𝕨𝕒𝕟𝕥 𝕗𝕣𝕠𝕞 𝕞𝕖? 𝕎𝕙𝕪 𝕕𝕠𝕟'𝕥 𝕪𝕠𝕦 𝕣𝕦𝕟 𝕗𝕣𝕠𝕞 𝕞𝕖?❞

~18~female~umbrakinesis~mood: sleeeeeep~location: sanctuary -> train~tags: none~ mentions: team~

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Once Arys, Naevys, and Ardai arrive, Dakota is woken up by the sound of people moving around. Groggily opening her eyes, she drags herself up and follows them. She can't wait to get back to Headquarters and sleep. That's all she really wants right now. Oh, and to see her family. Despite being Ninon, the girl makes it a point to visit her family, particularly her brother (yes this is a thing now). Family is important to her, and she refuses to drift away from them. Besides, they'll want all the juicy info.
Once the squad boards the car, she stretches out on a bench, not caring how much room she takes up, and, determined to get some sleep, closes her eyes. It only takes a few seconds before she drifts off.

[Pistol Annie #1 NPC]

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Atlanta Hunter
Phoenix Commander
Tags: All

-----The commander smiled in a reassuring gesture, but said nothing more. Jen was a solitary type, and at times like this, the fire-wielder would probably appreciate some personal space. Atlanta rose from the seat and decided to do a quick survey of the train compartment.
-----As she walked down the aisle, she noticed more of the squad was falling asleep. The commander let them rest. They needed it, and they had plenty of time before the train reached its destination.

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Lanette Lane
The Pacifist
Tags: Caleb

-----Lanette was impressed with the summoner's humility. She hadn't forgotten Caleb's initiative and leadership at the start of their mission, but he seemed to focus only on the accomplishments his teammates. Not all leaders were this modest, but good ones were. The Phoenix Squad was fortunate to have people like him. It bolstered Lanette's hopes that their little team could make a difference, working together to free Delra.
-----"You have a heart of gold," The pacifist said warmly, looking up with a soft smile. He'd come back from the dead mere hours ago, but his biggest concerns were still his teammates. Still, he insisted he was alright, and Lanette knew she was being stubborn by coddling him like a mother hen.
-----"Alright, I trust you," She chuckled. "I'll stop nagging now, but... we're here for you, okay?"
-----She swept her hand in a wide gesture towards everyone in the train compartment. The Phoenix Squad, to Lanette, was like a second family. They had interesting characters like Ardai and Onyx to entertain them, kind-hearted teammates like Leo and Brenn, wise ones like Naevys to keep them grounded, loyal warriors like Jen and Arys who would never let them down...
-----We're going to save Delra together, Lanette thought with conviction. It might be naïve, but it's what I believe in.

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Alastair Brungard
Prince of Delra
Tags: Ella

-----Ella turned his head, examining where the slap had landed on his cheek. Her gentle gesture was welcomed, to say the least. Alastair craved human contact other than violence and the clash of blades.
-----The Prince smiled faintly, in part to reassure her, but also to conceal the deep yearning that tugged at his heart. What he pined for was an impossibility, a far-fetched fantasy concocted by irrational emotions.
-----He wanted to trust her.
-----As quickly as the unrealistic thought crossed his mind, he buried it deep and reminded himself of the consequences. Trusting even the most innocent-seeming ally came with too many uncertainties. He dared not gamble his life, his crown, his kingdom away on such whims. Trust was a luxury the Prince could not afford.
-----And what a hypocrite he was. Ella was a smart young woman - Alastair hoped she knew better than to trust him. Such a kindhearted lady deserved better than a manipulative prince with an ulterior motive behind his every action.
-----"Thank you," Alastair murmured, his tone soft with a touch of vulnerability. This was the most he could allow himself to divulge, a subtle hint at how much he had needed Ella's gesture. Any more and he would be betraying both of them. "Yes, the fresh air should help us both. Follow me, if you please."
-----Slowly, he opened the door of his room and looked outside. The hallways were empty, save for motes of dust drifting lazily through the sunbeams. With careful steps, the Prince led the way through the corridors. The deathly silence of these lonely halls was best faced with a companion.

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Senegal Jin
High Councillor
Tags: love you baby

-----Sometimes, the rebels questioned why motherly old Senegal led the revolution. They would mention that a child-care position was more fitting given her personality. Truth was, that was the exact reason she'd become High Councillor. All of the rebels were her babies, and she was in a position of care over all of them.
-----"Shh," She soothed, planting a soft kiss on the blonde's head. "Don't worry, sweetie. If you get a good night's sleep, I promise you can go on tomorrow's mission."
-----Senegal started towards the Phoenix Squad dormitories, her frustrated baby still tucked into her arms. "I wish you'd come to Mummy earlier. We can easily replace the dummy, but we can't replace you. Your team needs you, dear."

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SOME HOURS LATER

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Atlanta Hunter
Phoenix Commander
Tags: All

-----Headquarters, at last. As soon as they arrived, other rebels escorted the traitors away, and Atlanta led the Phoenix Squad into the dormitory hallways for one final debriefing. She would have to hurry. It was late and everyone was exhausted, herself included.
-----"This will be quick," She reassured them. "Phoenix Squad. You dealt with the threat from all four traitors, and brought three back alive. I know you faced troubles, but I am proud of everyone for fighting on."
-----"You succeeded because of your strength, your initiative, your wit, and your teamwork. Each one of you deserves congratulations for saving the Uprising." She made eye contact with each member in turn, showing sincerity in her grey gaze. Jen and her team were included in this. Despite the violence at the Sanctuary, their mission was still a success.
-----"Tomorrow morning, you have another important mission. I'm dismissing you now." She gestured to the dorm rooms. Atlanta trusted her squad to make their own decisions during downtime, so she barked no orders. Still, there was definitely the recommendation that they go to bed.
-----As for Atlanta, she had to face the Council. She would wait until everyone left this hallway before leaving to brave the storm ahead.

100: (Inactive characters)
101: (Inactive characters)
102: Sonata, Jade
103: Arys, Arietta
104: Caleb, Naevys
105: Ardai, Riley
106: Onyx, Brenn
107: Dakota, Atlanta
108: Gavotte, Leo
109: Jen, Lanette
110: (Inactive characters)

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Alastair Brungard
Prince of Delra
Tags: Ella

-----After a fair deal of walking, the duo arrived at the forest's edge. Alastair took a moment to savor the sound of wind whistling through leaves far above. A fond smile spread across his faux-exhausted face, as if he was about to greet an old friend.
-----Leaves crunched under polished boots as the Prince entered the forest. He took out a makeup-eraser and wiped the dark shadows from underneath his eyes, as there was no risk of Donovan discovering his facade here. The Emperor had a strange aversion to the woods. Alastair had a theory as to why, but now was not the time for such trivialities.
-----"I still owe you an explanation for this," Alastair chuckled, pointing to where the makeup had been. "Although, I must admit it is a long story. Would you like to hear it - or is there something else on your mind?" It would be rude of him to simply talk about himself if Ella had something else to discuss.

[honeybee.]

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Ella Brie
Location: Palace --> The Prince's Sanctuary
Tags: Alastair
Date: Day After Fivana Fiasco
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There was something different in Alastair's voice when she drew her hand away from his cheek that only served to reinforce the guilt bubbling inside her. As she walked beside the Prince through the suffocating silence of the palace, nerves jittering at the sound of each of their footsteps in fear that the Emperor would reappear and change his mind about letting Alastair go, she tried to convince herself that this betrayal wouldn't be all that bad. At least he would be far from his father, perhaps he would face less pain locked there in the underground. But who was she kidding? Senegal wouldn't sanction any harm towards the young Prince but there were plenty of angry rebels who would adore to inflict suffering on the son of the tyrant that ruined their lives. No one could guarantee that he'd be completely safe.
Stepping out into the city of Oneta was little escape from the silence but at least the air was no longer so still. There were times she would relish the peace of these streets compared to the constant hustle and bustle in the underground, but now she feared that the sound of the quickened pulse she could hear echoing in her ears would give her away.

It was certainly a relief to reach the trees, the sound of leaves rustling in the wind a cacophony compared to the utter lack of noise they'd just emerged from. It always felt almost blasphemous to disturb the peace of the capital and the pair hadn't uttered a word until they reached the forest. Now Ella watched as Alastair began to remove the makeup that was making him look so exhausted. She gripped the basket a little tighter at the reminder that this forest was Alastair's sanctuary, that her betrayal would take place in the place he felt safest. "He doesn't trust you anyway," she told herself, "You know how incomprehensible he is, even this walk could be part of some sort of manipulation." Not that that was particularly helpful, it only served to alert her to the fact that the Phoenix squad still had to succeed in kidnapping the Prince. This whole thing could still go very, very wrong.
The Prince's offer of an explanation was welcome, understanding of Alastair's motives for anything came very rarely and so any information from him could end up of use. She did have to carefully disguise a flash of heightened worry when Alastair specifically asked her whether there was anything she needed to talk about, momentarily wondering whether she had given herself away with some sort of facial expression or body language before remembering that this would just be the Prince being carefully selfless.
"We have plenty of time for a long story." She told him with a smile, as carefully formed as the exhausted facade he had just dropped. "And I would certainly like to know just why you used up so much of your energy to make yourself look tired and unwell."

[Pistol Annie #1 NPC]

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INTERLUDE

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Alastair Brungard
Prince of Delra
Tags: Ella

-----"Then it is decided," Alastair said with a smile. For a prince born in a world of cunning subterfuge, he sure enjoyed the brief moments of genuineness. It was somehow a relief to speak truthfully of the many motives behind an action, even though for every move explained, a hundred more remained shrouded in careful deceit.
-----"This story began before we met."
-----As they continued deeper into the forest, straying farther from nearby paths, Alastair began to explain in a hushed voice. It was best to keep quiet. The most dangerous time was when he foolishly assumed it was safe.
-----"Years ago, the Thrinton Guard captured a rebel named Hope," He began. "Thrinton's standards for treating prisoners are different from ours, as I expect you know. They commit a diversity of inhumane atrocities in the name of 'extracting information'." Alastair made no attempt to hide the disappointment from his face. While he made an effort to respect the morals of different provinces, any barbaric treatment of human beings was unacceptable.
-----"Many Onetians were calling for 'the traitor to be executed'," Alastair continued. "Although, you and I understand they mainly intended to end the torture."
-----"I convinced the Emperor to allow me to arrange the execution. I told him that as the people's 'symbol of hope', it would be a beautiful allegory if I were to execute a traitor, the false 'Hope'."
-----The Prince was essentially admitting he had deceived the Emperor of Delra. Dangerous words, these were, but Alastair would not be sharing these words if their truth and aftermath were not carefully calculated.
-----"I scheduled the date of the execution far into the future, and in the meantime Hope would be held in Oneta. He has lived a reasonably comfortable life for years. Today, it was scheduled to end at my hand," A somewhat devious smile spread across Alastair's face, "but I was clearly too tired to even lift the sword."
-----The sound of rushing water grew louder as the pair continued deeper into the woods. It was a soothing noise, a balm to the Prince's soul. The softly flowing waters of the river could, for a moment, wash away his troubles with their gentle cadences.
-----"What a shame, I will just have to reschedule the execution. How about in four more years?" Alastair chuckled. It was an inside joke with himself, truthfully. There was... something important he planned to do before four years were up. If he succeeded with his plan, there would be no need for Hope to even be imprisoned.
-----It was probably in his best interest to change the subject, though. Without context, his words sounded rather morbid. "Anyway, this is not the first time I used such a ruse," He gestured to where his eye shadows used to be. "The Emperor is not very observant regarding these things."
-----It was a half-truth. Donovan was not observant about anything to do with his son - he simply did not care. That grievance, however, was not one Alastair felt compelled to air out anytime soon.
-----As they finally reached the waterfall clearing, Alastair sat down cross-legged in the grass and simply listened to the river flow by. Above, the waters cascaded down a small cliff face and joined the lively rushing stream. This was the best place for a picnic, or a conversation, or ... simply to exist without all the expectations of princehood.

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Atlanta Hunter
Phoenix Commander
Tags: The Council, four other rebels

This is really long!
You don't have to read it,
it's mostly recap/foreshadowing.

-----The Council chamber was filled with mostly-familiar faces, but familiar did not mean friendly. Before the five Councillors in their respective seats, four other rebels stood in stony silence. One of them was a man Atlanta never wanted to speak to again. As she walked by, her hard grey eyes shifted to meet the contemptuous glare of her old commander.
-----"Please take a seat, dear," spoke High Councillor Senegal in her deep, gentle voice. Atlanta steeled herself and broke eye contact from Commander Kendrick, despite understanding the weight her simple action would hold where he came from. In Thrinton, to break eye contact first was to admit defeat. She glimpsed the old commander's disdainful smirk, but ignored him and his archaic ways as she seated herself in the lonely chair waiting for her. All around her, the Council watched silently in their seats, like five hawks watching from the half-moon table. Four more pairs of eyes bore into her from behind. Still, Atlanta remained impassive, her expression neutral and inscrutable.
-----"How was the mission?" Evelina was always the quietest voice at the table, but the Councillor of Intelligence was not to be ignored.
-----She sounds calm, but I can feel the tension. I know her too well, Atlanta thought, but betrayed none of her worries on her face. She began carefully. "We were successful in-"
-----"She wasn't asking you," Snapped Councillor Aurelia, icy eyes glaring daggers - no, entire arsenals of freshly sharpened blades - at Atlanta. "Finnegan. Start talking."

-----Atlanta didn't even look back at her father. Since the moment she entered the eerily silent Council chamber, his presence felt like bad news. As to why he was here, she had no clue, but she suspected she was about to find out.
-----"Alright, golly." Her father chuckled, which made the elderly woman's glare intensify. "You want to hear how the kids and I wheeled James Taylor out in a trash bin?"
-----"Not particularly. This is no time for your frivolous little-"
-----"I'm just saying they were successful. Barely needed my help, apart from a little cleanup in the elevator. Wouldn't want our friends the Fivanians to see Caleb's old body."
-----In any normal room, there would have been gasps of horror or shock. But here, the only reaction came from Senegal, a hushed "... My child?"
-----"Don't worry your wingfeathers, he's fine and in a fresh new skin. The kid's like a phoenix but messier. Brenn and Sonata are a lil shaken up, but they ain't dead either."
-----Atlanta was silently taking everything in, unsure how to feel. Caleb had died and returned somehow, and Sonata and Brenn had presumably witnessed it. And Atlanta's father had intervened at Midas Tower, implying that the other three here might have overseen the remaining three locations. That meant one of them had been a bystander to the forty-five minute long killing at the Sanctuary. This was... a lot to digest.

-----"I hate your attitude," Aurelia said, waving her hand in a zip it motion. "You're going to stop there. Tyranne?"
-----"My three did well at Knifepoint Alley." So it wasn't Tyranne, Atlanta's childhood friend, who had witnessed the murder and done nothing. A small relief. "They went into a building though, so I couldn't follow them. I waited til they came out, dragging their target. Then one of the girls made a... black hole? And they all walked into it. I'm guessing it was some portal."
-----"Thank you, Tyranne. It seems like the kids' powers are greater than we expected," Murmured Councillor Oakley. "I'm proud of them."
-----"Proud? You mean relieved they're working for us and not against us." Councillor Aurelia's voice smoldered with bitterness.
-----"How could you. They are good children," Senegal scolded. Atlanta shared that sentiment - she truly believed her Phoenix Squad was good at heart. Maybe rough around the edges sometimes, but their hearts were still made of gold.
-----"You said that about James, Drew, Keith, and Leroy."
-----A chill fell over the room then - and it wasn't Atlanta's imagination. Tendrils of frost snaked up the corners of the table. She remembered then, one of the four rebels she'd seen was a stranger - a stranger who controlled the cold, apparently.

-----"Enough," Rumbled a deep and weary voice that would make Emperor Brungard sound like a teenager. Atlanta resisted the urge to turn her head and see who this unfamiliar voice belonged to. They had powers, yet didn't sound young enough to...?
-----"Sorry, Snowy dear. You may speak now." Senegal was back to the soft, motherly smile. Two seats down, Aurelia was fuming and looked about ready to burst into flames. (Or maybe she was just shivering really hard?)
-----"It's Snowden," Grumbled the voice, sounding almost resigned. This was definitely not the first time Senegal had called them 'Snowy'. "And I don't have much to report. The kids at the parade took off. They seemed to have it under control."
-----The room was silent for a moment. The frost slowly melted, and the chill air warmed back to a more reasonable temperature - it seemed 'Snowy' had said everything they wanted to.
-----"Thank you for sharing, Snowden," Evelina broke the silence. "Now, Kendrick..."
-----Commander Kendrick didn't need to be told twice. Another little detail Atlanta despised about him; he never listened, only waited his turn to speak. Others' words were just obstacles to his moment in the spotlight. She'd learned that after years of listening to him interrupt, ignore, and talk over his 'underlings' (which included her at the time).
-----And now, it was far worse. Atlanta already knew what he was about to say.

-----"Dire, Lane, and Slate had split up by the time they showed up at the lake. Lane was first, and almost got his neck sliced by the traitor. Dire shot its hand so it released Lane, and Slate attacked it to draw its attention." His every use of 'it' was grinding on Atlanta's nerves. "Then once Dire got in close quarters, the traitor stood no chance."
-----"Is this why the Phoenix Squad only brought three traitors back?" Now Watson spoke. He had been eerily silent the whole time, not a single joke or morbid quip out of his mouth. Even now, his voice was dry, empty of all humor. "... What did she do to him?"
-----Kendrick described it then, sparing no bloody detail. Atlanta was surprised the Council remained calm hearing this, until she reminded herself they'd dealt with worse. It was not a comforting thought.
-----Even less comforting was the realization that all eyes had turned to her.
-----"Atlanta, do you realize what this mission was? We meant it as a test for the Phoenix Squad," Councillor Oakley's voice was understanding, void of the anger Atlanta expected. "We appointed these four to watch over your mission, in case anything went wrong."
-----"It's not that we didn't trust you," Evelina explained. "We just needed to see if you were ready, because of what the next mission involves..."
-----"Frankly, it's not a mission best handled by murderers and criminals," Councillor Aurelia hissed.
-----In all honesty, Atlanta wasn't even upset about the spying. It had provided the kids with a safety net, albeit one they barely needed. Better the Council mistrust her expertise than over-estimate it, after all. But to insult her squad and insinuate such things?

-----"Council, please forgive me for my impudence," She warned them in advance as her eyes met Aurelia's. "Don't talk about my squad like that ever again."
-----"Why I never... defending murderers now?"
-----"Murder or not, Jennifer acted to defend Arys and Gavotte." Atlanta's voice was level now, rage having smoldered down into slowly burning embers. She had rehearsed these arguments in her mind beforehand - now it was time to let them shine. "Objectively, she ensured the success of the mission - Drew was uncooperative and dangerous, and she dealt with the threat her way. She understands she went too far, and was truly remorseful for it."
-----"Sorry, Commander. I understand you believe the ends justify the means, but what happened was still unacceptable." Councillor Oakley seemed to be apologizing in advance.
-----Not good. I'm on thin ice, Atlanta thought. If he makes a case to execute Jen, Aurelia will agree and it'll be almost impossible to sway the Council.
-----"If you must blame someone, then blame me." It was worth a try. "I was unclear with the instructions; I never explicitly said to bring back the traitors alive. Since my mistake led to this, I should be the one to correct it."
-----Senegal looked sympathetic. "We aren't blaming you, my dear."
-----"Damn straight." Tyranne piped in from behind her, much to Atlanta's relief. (She made a mental note to thank her profusely later.) "Hell, it wasn't even Jen's fault, she's just a kid. But Kendrick? He was right there. Could've jumped in, but he just sat there and watched."
-----"Excuse me?" Commander Kendrick growled.
-----"Yeah, coward?"
-----Senegal stopped the rising storm by sending a smile their way. "My children, it's been a long day for everyone..."
-----"You're free to leave now," said Oakley. "The rest is between us and Atlanta."

-----As the four rebels filed out, the Council began to speak inaudibly among themselves. The pause was a welcome moment for Atlanta to collect her thoughts. As the heavy door slammed shut once more, the young commander prepared to defend her squad against another onslaught of accusations.
-----But none came.
-----"Atlanta, you're right. Your squad did complete the mission, as um... messy as it was," Evelina started. "Jen did do her part."
-----"Normally, we would punish behavior like hers severely." Oakley's expression was grim. "But, your squad is a special case. Just this once, Commander, we're leaving the punishment to you."
-----Relief washed over Atlanta at his words. This meant the Council had reached a consensus on mercy, and not the execution or imprisonment she'd been ready to fight against.
-----"Don't think we're happy about it. Or that she'll get away a second time." Of course, Aurelia was here to ruin the mood. "If this torture ever happens again, you can say goodbye."
-----"But this will not happen again, will it?" Senegal's voice, though sweet, held an edge that sounded vaguely threatening.
-----"No ma'am, it won't." Atlanta finally lowered her tense shoulders. "She's willing to train in managing her emotions. In the long run, this will help her more than any punishment would."
-----Watson, who had resumed his unnerving silence, simply raised an eyebrow at her.
-----"I believe in her," Atlanta continued, "and I believe in the Phoenix Squad. We just need you to believe in us, too."

-----"My dear... of course we believe in you." Senegal looked ready to reach across the table and give her a hug. Atlanta would not find that unwelcome.
-----"I hate to say this, but whether we continue to believe depends on tomorrow," said Evelina.
-----"No, stop. I'm devil's advocate here," Aurelia cut her off, betraying the hint of a smile. "Look. We have reason to be wary about Jen's temper, the squad's powers, even your leadership. But we're giving you a chance anyway. Prove to us we were worried for nothing."
-----This side of old Aurelia was a little weird, but... not bad at all. Atlanta nodded briskly. "I'll show you."
-----"Atta girl!"
-----"I'll dismiss this meeting now," said Senegal. "Baby, you run along to bed. You look awful tired and you've got a long day tomorrow."
-----"Thank you, ma'am," Atlanta said with a bow of her head. "And thank you, Council. I'll see you again soon."
-----As she left the Council chamber, she could still hear Senegal's voice nagging at her. "... And you best start eating better, dear. You're skinny as a..."

-----Finally, the door closed behind her and the nattering stopped. Senegal was... an adorable sort of annoying. As Atlanta rounded the corner, however, she came face-to-face with someone who was annoying but definitely not adorable. He loomed over her, towering over the already-tall brunette by a full head. Atlanta recalled that in Thrinton, where this moron came from, height was yet another marker of superiority. An arrogant sneer decorated his pale and gaunt face.
-----"What do you want, Kendrick."
-----"Just want to say that for once, I agree with you," said the old commander. "What Dire did was justice."
-----Atlanta was silent, giving him no reaction.
-----"But this changes nothing." His expression turned downright nasty. With a scoff of contempt, he turned to walk away, his towering figure disappearing around the bends. But his voice still carried. "She's still a wolf led by a sheep. Don't forget what you did at Aquari, coward."
-----The unwelcome reminder stung like a slap in the face, but Atlanta brushed it off and marched on back to her dorm. She'd mistakenly assumed that after being 'discharged' from Kendrick's squad, his harassment would come to an end. Quite contrary, after Atlanta became a commander herself, he seemed even more determined to ruin her day.
-----Honestly, he was just wasting his energy at this point. Atlanta couldn't care less about his arrogant swaggering at this point. As uncultured and irritating he was, he wasn't interfering with the Phoenix Squad and that was all she asked for. As long as he didn't overstep that boundary...



(Intentional double-post: Chapter Three will be in the next one! Feel free to ask me any questions.)

[Pistol Annie #1 NPC]

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chapter three
THE PRINCENAPPING

-----The Phoenix Squad is assigned to a particularly dangerous and vital mission. They are to kidnap Prince Alastair, the heir to the throne. Success means the Uprising gains its most valuable piece in securing Delra's future. Failure is not an option.

Back to the Table of Contents

-----By the time the train arrived at the station, the Phoenix Squad had already divided themselves into three groups: Team Alpha to charge in with attacks and intimidation, Team Beta to lie in wait and ultimately capture their prisoner, and Team Omega to wait at the station and help the kidnappers get away. They all had their weapons, although only Teams Alpha and Beta would be using theirs.
-----The train's doors slid open to reveal a pristine, silent station - a jarring contrast with the flurry of Fivanians the night prior. A fair number of Onetians were in sight, distinguishable from the non-natives by their dapper greyscale clothes and elegant demeanor. Teams Alpha and Beta, still wearing their regular clothes from underground, would look like street urchins in those immaculate halls. Practicality trumped looks in their case.
-----Team Omega, however, were dressed appropriately to enter the beautiful province of Oneta. Since it would be suspicious and boring for a group of shabby teenagers to loiter here for hours, Atlanta had provided them with proper formal outfits - tailored suits and traditional Onetian skirts (yes, the boys had skirts too) - allowing them to explore the District of Stars unchallenged.
-----"We part ways here," Commander Atlanta spoke in a hushed tone to avoid being heard. It was, again, a stark contrast to the shrill screeching she'd imitated back in Fivana. "Remember, Team Omega, you're free to explore until I page you for the one-hour warning. Who wants the walkie-talkie?" She handed the communicator to the first person whose hands reached out to claim it.
-----"Team Alpha, Team Beta - let's move out," she said with a brisk wave of her hand. The lush forested area on the opposite side of the train tracks was an excellent place to disappear (and coincidentally connected to Alastair's forest), so she led the squad into the brush. Once deep enough to avoid any prying eyes, she held out two more walkie-talkies - one for each team. These communicators carried a greater responsibility than the one handed randomly to team Omega.
-----"Remember. Team Alpha, you'll be leading the attack - be as intimidating as possible. Force him towards where Team Beta is waiting." She turned to the other side. "Team Beta, your job is to find the best place for the ambush. Use your powers to help Team Alpha out. Once they drive Alastair to you, jump him and slap the handcuffs on."
-----Each member of Team Beta had a pair of power-cancelling handcuffs that would, hopefully, cancel out whatever power Alastair had. The Intelligence Department genuinely didn't know what he had.
-----"The rest is up to you... but first, we have to reach the waterfall. The instructions Evelina gave us were vague," She confessed. "We can't use GPS or we'll be easily traced back to the crime, so we'll have to try our best."
-----Atlanta brought out the sketchy map one more time to refresh their memories. They'd studied it on the train until every landmark was memorized by at least half the squad. Still, markers like 'mossy rock shaped like upside-down pear' would be difficult to find...
-----"I'll let you lead the way. Think of it as an exercise in navigation." The commander would follow behind with the map and correct them if things appeared too off-track. She would try not to say anything - the Phoenix Squad was a rather independent lot, and she trusted in them.

Role list
choose your own role and I'll update this list

Team Alpha: Sonata, Jen, Jade, Cujo
Communicator: Naevys

Team Beta: Gavotte, Onyx
Communicator: Brenn

Team Omega: Lanette, Ardai, Apollo
Communicator: Caleb

████【❁】████

Sonata Thornwood
Plant manipulation
Tags: Team Alpha & Beta

-----The forest was the ideal place for a plant-manipulator to unleash her powers. She'd chosen Team Alpha because of her newfound confidence - she wanted to face the Prince head-on. Despite her skyrocketing self-esteem, however, she still didn't want to use the walkie-talkie. So stressful and awkward, having to talk clearly into an electronic device. She was anxious about using phones even! Please, someone else take it...
-----Atlanta mentioned navigating, and Sonata raised a hand. Even though their tall and attractive commander was listening, she wasn't even nervous to contribute - a big step for her. "Umm... here, I have an idea!"
-----She focused on a nearby bush. Several vines sprouted out and intertwined with each other, melding into the tall stem of a flower. The flowerhead opened to reveal a large, yellow sunflower facing the direction of the rising sun.
-----"I uh... I tried this in Midas Tower, but we didn't get a chance to really use it?" She twiddled her fingers awkwardly. "These flowers point east when I make them, umm... it's like a compass! But pointing east instead of north."

████【♫】████

Gavotte Lane
Water manipulation
Tags: Team Alpha & Beta

-----After fleeing from the fight in Fivana, Gavotte didn't trust himself to take one of the communicators. Best to let someone stronger take control of relaying important information. He'd chosen Team Beta for a similar reason - directly charging into the fight might overwhelm him. Staying behind and waiting, using his water powers to support his team, however, seemed like an excellent idea.
-----As for navigating... that was a good role too. Gavotte wanted to stick to his forte for now, or literally anything except attacking people. He thought for a second, tuning out the others.
-----It was his own canteen of water that gave him sudden inspiration. Water...
-----"His sanctuary is by a waterfall," He mumbled. "Maybe we should look for water...?"

████【♟】████

Lanette Lane
Pacifism
Tags: Team Omega

-----Lanette originally wanted to be on Team Alpha, until she remembered how suspicious Team Omega would be without backup. With her pacifying abilities, she could calm the worries of anyone who became wary of them - even the Royal Guard. It would be especially useful when the kidnappers came back.
-----Upon entering the beautiful, ornate white station, Lanette was pleased to see a rack of maps. She immediately took one and opened it, unfolding the large map until her short arms couldn't hold it flat. Her eyes were drawn to a few areas.
-----"Come look!" She gestured to the rest of Team Omega. "There's parks, art galleries, museums... an ancient prison..."
-----Oneta was rife with historical monuments. The world outside Headquarters seemed so large, and Lanette had a feeling they wouldn't be able to visit everything in one day. It filled her with a burning determination to see as much as she could.

████【➹】████

Ardai Fairchild
Invisibility
Tags: Team Omega

-----The urge to start twirling was almost irresistible. It was pretty obvious, but Ardai loved skirts with a passion. His 'Oneta outfit' was all-white, featuring a cute little skirt that flared out over his dress pants. The only accents of color were the orange earrings his friends helped him put in.
-----He wished he could see himself and not just a blur of white, but oh well. He would follow the others' lead as he preferred to. Loud and rambunctious as he was, Ardai Fairchild was not a leader. (Especially when he was pretty much blind. This was why he chose Team Omega, he'd be useless out there.)
-----"I don't really mind where we go," He said with a big grin, "As long as there's food. I didn't get none at Corazon last night and I really wanna try something fancy."


(Chapter 3 intro posted at 3:33 AM! Totally didn't do this on purpose...)

[hellb0und]

➴x────────────────────xxＪＥＮxx────────
NAME. jennifer dire ` ABILITY. fire manipulation ` TAG(S). team alpha, beta `
xxxxxxxx𝐈 𝐀𝐌 𝐀𝐒 𝐃𝐄𝐀𝐃𝐋𝐘 𝐀𝐒 𝐅𝐈𝐑𝐄 𝐈𝐓𝐒𝐄𝐋𝐅.

xxxxxxxx The forest was naturally the ideal place for Jen, and played a large role in why she chose Team Alpha. That, and she wanted to come face to face with Alastair. The son of the man she hated with every fiber of her being. Otherwise, the forest served as an overall positive influence. It started when she was small, with her father's missions primarily residing in Ninon and Forell. He'd tell her all about the wondrous vast greenery and towering trees. Describing in detail the plants he saw, until he'd managed to bring home books with actual pictures. Plants were identified according to usage and animals which made for the best game. He'd simplified the information the best he could at the time for the young-minded blonde. Her dreams later filled with the enchantments that the woods held, how the grass might feel beneath her bare feet, or what it'd look like to view the expansion from the safety of a high tree. After he brought home a very much illegal freshly killed rabbit, tiny Jen pushed and pushed for her father to teach her how to use a bow. Soon thereafter he had, despite her mother's hesitance, insisting she was a bit older as she was merely five at the time. He'd teach her even on the days he came home from an exhausting mission. Little had she known at the time when she was laid to rest he was still awake, scribbling away and drawing on blank pages. Filling them with all sorts of facts and information on her beloved forest. He'd included archery, of course, how she could craft her own bow, how to make arrows. Everything she could possibly desire to know was there. As Jennifer grew more and more restless to see the woods for herself, her father became more and more determined to let her do so. At least once. Negotiating with Senegal, he finally managed to do what he once believed was quite possibly... well, impossible. The way she lit up had sent him too alight, but Jen definitely kept him on his toes with the way she ran around. Getting her to return back to the Underground was singlehandedly the most excruciating and depressing thing he'd gone through, but he reminded himself that was what he was fighting for. A brighter future for her.
It was only a week after that he was killed alongside her mother. Executed by the Emperor himself in a failed mission they both saw too. The day the news was delivered sent Jennifer into a speedy downward spiral, and it was the next day she found the book. A note written carefully at the end of it.
xxxxxxxxMy beloved Jen,
I wrote this book for you. One day you'll find it, whether I am here or not is to be determined. Regardless, sealed within these pages is everything I've taught you and then some more. I've even collected some plants and placed them in the self-made envelope below. I trust you'll never forget, Fire Girl, but if you do it's all right here. I have even added how to craft your own bow, for the day you see the woods again.
I love you.
To this very day, no one has ever seen the book except for Jen. She'd hidden it and only took it out when no one was around, her tears oftentimes dotting the pages of ink. She'd only seen the woods again because of Atlanta, who would sneak her up. Now she was seeing them once more, not tainted by the blood she'd shed in The Sanctuary, but instead the blood of a tyrant who'd caused so much avoidable pain and suffering.
xxxxxxxx Snapping back to reality, she hadn't needed to see the map again, she'd memorized it. They just had to figure out how to start out from there. With ideas being exchanged, she listened intently. Nodding to both of them before speaking, "We can use them together. As we near the waterfall, the footing will grow damper. Gavotte, you can use your powers, too. Try and draw water from nearby every so often. Sonata's sunflower will let us know where we are location-wise." She didn't mention that she could classify aquatic plants. And there was the potential that creatures who relied heavily on water would be close to it.

[passione]

➵ ＮＡＥＶＹＳ ＸＹＲＣＡＮ
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male ● eighteen ● telekinesis ● oneta ● tagged - team alpha, team beta


naevys had to be honest with himself here. was he enough on his own to take on such a large role in this important mission? he had no idea. he was hesitant— weighing different aspects of himself on the scales. did he have the confidence? absolutely not. not this time. did he have a strong enough power to push the team to victory? absolutely. whether his legs were weak or strong didn't matter. there was no actual physical exertion coming into play here unless he was really being attacked. naevys could position himself behind the prince and force him forwards towards team beta. telekinesis was almost the perfect power.

since his only limits came down to his physical strength and naevys had been training all his life, he was sure that shoving a grown man with 'the force' or binding his arms temporarily would be no issue at all. the problem is: no one really knows what prince alastair's power is. what if he could disable people's powers or subdue people? this particular mission was dangerous— not because of all the people who were going to be around, but because they were quite literally marching into the unknown.

yes, they'd been training for years and years for this very moment, but what of it? if the squad fails, there would be no second chance.

naevys tensed, feeling the bandages wrapped around his bad leg tighten. of course, it wasn't something that hindered his mobility more, and it wasn't that his condition worsened, but he simply needed a sense of security. if he moved in a wrong way, the chances of re-tearing his leg would decrease, in comparison to if he didn't have the bandage on. it kind of acted as a brace, you could say. another great thing is that naevys was able to hold several throwing knives on his body simply by slipping them underneath the bandage. he could remove them with his power and use them if his gauntlets were ever to be knocked off his wrists.

team alpha it was, then. he had the intelligence and the power. confidence would come in time, but all naevys really wanted to focus on was protecting his team and completing this mission. he was filled with a sense of responsibility that had only ever surged through him a few times— one of them, being his speech at the marking ceremony. he missed his brothers.

the telekinetic plucked the walkie-talkie from his commander's hand, fiddling with the switches to get used to its functions. he decided that he was to be team alpha's communicator. he was sure that he had the skillset. clipping the device to the hem of his pants, naevys marched forward next to sonata.

"i suppose i'll be the communicator," he says to atlanta, wringing his hands to keep himself busy. "i won't physically be the most useful in the mission but do trust that i have the wits. i'm your teenaged kid, commander. i hope you trust me!"

naevys then turns to the freckled brunette and tries to strike up a conversation. "so. nervous at all?"

[cocogerber13]

Caleb Oxenbera——————————
♠︎ // Phoenix Squad Recruit // Beast Summoning // Tags: Team Omega, Ardai and Lanette, briefly Naevis

Caleb found himself dressed as sharply as the knife that had... well, that was all in the past now. In any case, though Caleb was a bit worried about his friends that were actually going after Prince Alastair, he knew they were fully capable of their mission. He also knew that a select few of his comrades would definitely NOT fit into the Onetan atmosphere no matter what clothing they wore. Though he was more Twodorian himself he could sure as heck act like a true citizen of Oneta. Plus he actually got along with the rest of team Omega.

Turquoise eyes watched supportively as Commander Atlanta and the other two groups after they arrived at the station, quickly retrieving a walkie-talkie before the group set off. As he gingerly took it from her, his gaze flickered to hers for only a moment before returning to Ardai and Lanette. Though he hadn’t told a ton of people about his death, Atlanta’s father had surely told someone. Would he have told his own daughter? What about Mother Senegal? Caleb looked to the ground with a small frown. It proved his abilities useful perhaps, but having made such a mistake as getting himself killed was pretty embarrassing.

The teenager’s expression tried to lift when he made it back to the pair, his attention drawing to the map briefly before, “I feel a bit bad exploring while everyone else won’t be, but maybe we could use this opportunity to try to figure out a bit more about the emperor and his son? We’ve studied the history, but that’s only one book’s view.” He suggested openly. “Buttttt... I wouldn’t be opposed to getting some food first. Oneta is bound to have something fancy to eat.” He grinned, sliding the communication device into a silvery pocket. Caleb would use it if it were really necessary, however he would have more information about the situation if he used his trademark spy-bird trick. As his hand dropped to his side again, the brunet cupped his hand just large enough to produce a hummingbird. The small animal zipped over to Naevys before anyone could make out what it was and settled on his shoulder. Caleb had faith that his roommate could infer his intentions.

———

Onyx Carriado——————————
♣︎ // Phoenix Squad Recruit // Acrobat // Tags: Team Beta, Team alpha

Despite the respectful air about Oneta, it was impossible for Onyx to keep the cat-like grin off their face. They had been assigned to Team Beta, which was honestly probably the most fitting option for the acrobat (even if they did envy Team Omega’s outfits). They did their best to keep quiet as the shabbily dressed group traversed it’s way through the streets and into the greenery. For the most part, aside from a few quips here and there to Brenn, the raven-haired recruit behaved themself. Even for the briefing Onyx’s expression was calculating until the last word fell from their commander’s mouth. Then, however, the teen turned to their team and called dibs on putting the handcuffs on Alastair first. “I can pretty easily scale a tree, and I’m quiet and can land safely and accurately too.” The kid seemed a tiny bit over eager for the job. It was all for good reason, though; after telling their best friend their plans for the future, they had been doubting their own sense of leadership.

Onyx had always been one to be stealthy when necessary and draw attention once they wanted it, so much so that such situations may even have connections to their ability. This did not do anything to inspire Onyx to fulfil important roles however, so perhaps this was their way of finally taking a stand. Or Onyx just wanted to check out the tech involved in the invention of the power-reducing cuffs. It was likely the latter, considering the recruit had little interest in the walkie-talkies since they wouldn’t be using them to say dumb stuff to their friends. Yet.

Onyx finally felt a nervous buzz in their stomach once Atlanta brought out the map they had studied. Preparation always made them feel sick, and while they knew it was absolutely urgent for this mission to be a success, they would have preferred at least being able to check out the area beforehand.

Onyx was very aware of their gulp at the notion that the commander would not be the one leading the way. While the others were conversing about possible plans of actions, a sunflower that Onyx swore hadn’t been there previously, and claiming nerves, the dark-haired teen took another glance at the map before locating a familiar crossing of trees. They didn’t know exactly when Alastair would be at the target location, but it was definitely better to get there early as opposed to late. “I... think that might be our trailhead.” The acrobat said to no one in particular, starting a soft-footed tread over to the intersecting branches.

———

Jade Aubourm——————————
♢ // Phoenix Squad Recruit // Healing // Tags: Team Alpha, Team beta

Jade had been following around the group (looking very much like a lost child due to her size and lagging behind) with a less than eager glare upon her face. Onetans were tall and it made the shorter girl feel bitter. Luckily it wasn’t too long before they left the busy streets of the city for a forest and were given their briefing. The hot tempered blonde stood next to Sonata with arms crossed over her chest.

The healer had very little concern for the point of the revolution or even using her powers, however going out into the world sure beat staying back at the base like she had done for the last mission. Plus this one actually appeared kind of interesting- well, mostly the part where she was put onto the team meant to intimidate Alastair. What a boast Jade could make when they were done! Plus Sonata would be right here too, and it was amusing just thinking about her sweet friend trying to spook anyone, much less an Onetan Prince. The thought alone almost brought a smile to Jade’s face.

The girl’s mouth pressed back into a thin line again when Naevys retrieved the walkie-talkie and joined the pair on the other side of Sonata. Russet eyes stared evenly up at the other teenager with the focus of a trained guard dog. Mistaking the boy’s harmless question as one to intimidate Sonata, Jade gave a loud sniff. “I won’t let any of us get hurt, so there’s really no reason to be nervous.” The way she phrased her sentence made it seem much nicer than what her tone would have suggested. The harsh edge in her voice was still a little sharper than she had intended though, especially so early in the mission. She cleared her voice and glanced to the side with a hint of guilt. “I mean, I suppose everyone is a little on edge. At least it’ll keep us on our toes.”

Her attention turned to Onyx after the Team Beta member started off in a random direction, and without having heard their words she was about to make a remark on what the acrobat thought they were doing. Her tongue froze, however, once she looked up to to a familiar shape that was mirrored on the paper Commander Atlanta held now.