Author Topic: opening act [Open]  (Read 6649 times)

Kingnoname1

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Re: opening act [Open]
« Reply #15 on: October 11, 2018, 12:28:59 AM »
’I noticed, no point doing all those situps and hiding them away I guess. Huh that’s a… nice piece of ink I believe the phrase is, does it mean anything?’ Saffron responded spending a short moment searching for the ‘hip’ phrase. Saffron was no stranger to showing her fair share of skin herself, even going so far to use fire dust runes to allow her to do such comfortably in Atlas’ arctic climate. Ripped jeans, however, weren’t something that Saffron understood but she guessed it fit with Azure’s punk persona, the tattoo was much more impressive to Saffron as it showed action rather than inaction. ’A common thread is also helpful, having time to yourself might not always be possible with a life like yours so making sure you are always doing what you love is the only way to stay sane. Not that we aren’t all a little insane when you think about it’ Saffron continued looking off into the distance. A lot of effort was put into social support at Atlas, it’s more regimented outlook allowed for more of a hands-on approach to recovery, both physically and mentally. It was a necessary thing in Saffron’s view, the darkness they all faced every day could never be withstood alone and it isn’t always easy to confide with your team.

’Dust is an incredible asset.’ Saffron agreed innately but a ‘but’ was clearly coming. ’But remember it’s only a tool, the only thing you can guarantee you will have at your back every fight is your body and your friends. You should try to get some practice in with fighting without dust, not only for the situations in which you have to but also when you think you will have to save up for future encounters.’ Saffron warned. It was a common problem with Atlas student and when self-reliance is tied to failable technology it wasn’t really self-reliance and when those devices broke or simply ran out of power the results weren’t pretty. It was a harsh reality check for many, one which luckily enough Saffron’s parents had been drilling into her since before she wanted to go to Atlas Academy. Saffron’s electroreceptors could easily tell that little normal electrical current flowed through Renegade as Azure did her demonstration. ’I guess it also keeps the guitar in your hands when you are dancing around on stage. And I could imagine a few attacks from unexpected angles resulting from playing around with gravity. Very impressive. Just remember not to slack off on those sit-ups, your abs don’t run out of ammo.’ Saffron responded with a smile. As serious these issues are they shouldn’t kill the mood entirely.

Azure’s outburst was completely understandable and Saffron wasn’t at all offended by it, a little saddened that Azure wouldn’t return to Atlas but no one is obligated to stay where they are hated. ’Well beyond the weather I guess it’s because I’m OK being a political statement as well. Not that I’m accusing you of running away but not everyone has the means to leave Atlas, there needs to be proof that we can make our lives back there. That we can be successful, rising to the peaks of Atlas society regardless of the roadblocks in our way. Also, I can change more from the inside than the outside.’ Saffron responded a small smile beguiling deeper inner conflict. Every day was literally a day closer to her dream but it didn’t always feel like that to Saffron and when she looked back on all to progress she had made it seemed so little compared to harm others could, and often did, so easily inflict. ’Maybe think of it like songwriting, time signatures and instrument choice may at first seem confining but with restrictions come ways to subvert them, showing your own personal style in a way impossible without said restrictions. And… you can’t break the rules if there aren’t any rules, to begin with.’ Saffron continued her smile growing as she sort to convince Azure, herself as well as in a way Aurelia who could easily hear the entire exchange.

Saffron was still a little worried about Azure even as she brushed her off, a semblance with that kind of drawback could be very dangerous, particularly with Azure’s lifestyle. Still, it would have to be something Azure has to deal with on her own eventually and all Saffron could do was support that. As such the Atlas student was caught quite off guard by Aurelia’s comment, quickly turning as red as her hair and separating from the punk star. ’It’s… not like that...Azure was simply feeling the effects of her travels… she’s fine now though… there was nothing like that.’ Saffron replied incredibly embarrassed as she reluctantly backing away from Azure. A few deep breaths managed to calm down Saffron enough but her blush was still noticeable down to her neck. ’Well nice to meet you, Aurelia… hope you are having a nice day. I asked Headmaster Lovis if I could partake in some advanced classes focused on more real-world situations. As such I’ve been taking missions across the various continents with my stay here generously supplied by your Headmaster Inverno.’ Saffron responded falling back into a much more regimented response than what she gave to Azure even if they both ending up meaning the same thing.

’Well I’ve just been to comfor...reassure Azure here of her abilities and offering my help in bringing those to the fore. You two will obviously be around each other longer than I so perhaps together we could provide Azure a good base moving forward? Confidence comes from knowledge after all.’ Saffron explained, honestly having an older Beacon student would make the situation much easier, as much as there would be an advantage in offering a different perspective on the matter simply knowing what will be tested would be more effective in simply getting Azure to pass. ’As long as that is OK with you Azure? More the merrier after all… er for purely educational purposes of course.’ Saffron continued overly examining her words so Aurelia doesn’t get the wrong impression accidentally doing the exact opposite. Well that might make it more likely for her to accept if only to chaperone. Saffron thought to herself dryly, she had not made a good first impression.
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Azure Blair

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Re: opening act [Open]
« Reply #16 on: October 14, 2018, 09:34:19 PM »
Azure glanced down at her tattoo. “No, it doesn’t mean anything. I just got it ‘cause I thought it was pretty.” That technically wasn’t entirely true. She had gotten it because she wasn’t thinking straight; because she didn’t know how to control her impulses. Because she had been manic. She had gone into the shop and picked out the biggest tattoo she could find, not really realizing or caring about how expensive it would turn out to be. That was always her biggest problem when manic, spending money. And also the fact that she now had a permanent tattoo that, while she didn’t hate, she still would have preferred something different had she been thinking straight.

She laughed a little. She considered herself more than a little insane at times, but she didn’t voice this. Instead, she simply shrugged and said, “yeah, everyone’s pretty crazy.” She was well aware of the social support Atlas offered, not that it had done much help when she’d been bouncing from foster home to foster home, but it had put her back on the right track after she had derailed. She knew some people weren’t as lucky to get the help they needed as she had been; she took a moment to be grateful for the orange pill bottle sitting on her dresser.

“Nah, I need to rely on Dust when I fight ‘cause I don’t have my own back,” Azure joked. A strip of sun fell across her eyes, she squinted in the light. “But yeah, I need to practice fighting with just my axe. Except for that without Dust, Renegade literally won’t work. Well, I suppose I could use it as a club, it’s heavy enough and sturdy enough.” She cracked a smile at her own joke. “I don’t use Renegade too much during shows, but when I do she is pretty useful. She helps me use my semblance more, which can be necessary at times.” Sometimes, if she was just feeling too exhausted or upset to perform, and knew her performance would be lacking her regular enthusiasm, she would use her semblance to both keep herself more energized, and keep the audience happy. “And it works well with dancing... up until you forget to switch which bracelet is activated, and end up accidentally smacking your drummer in the face with a guitar...” She brushed off the memory of the incident with a roll of her eyes. That had definitely not been her proudest moment.

Azure mulled over Saffron’s reasoning for staying in Atlas. Both of them were political statements in their own way, so it was perfectly understandable that Saffron should stay in the  utilitarian kingdom, considering her political statement was based in the Atlesian military. For Azure, she just needed to be as successful as possible, to prove that people like her could be successful, and she couldn’t do that in Atlas. “Yeah, I can imagine it would be hard to be an faunus Atlas specialist if you aren’t actually in Atlas.” She shrugged. “I can’t do what I need to do in that kingdom, though, I think I’ll be better off here.” She didn’t explain further, leaving her words up for interpretation.

At the new girl’s accusatory words, Azure laughed. She wasn’t embarrassed the way Saffron seemed to be, she was used to things like this-- assumptions, rumors, especially regarding the current topic. She had been subject to enough to just laugh them off. “No, hon,” she said, “we’re not doing anything like that-- not that I’d object if we were--” she smirked, “but no, you seem to have misunderstood the situation. I was just... reacting to the effects of travel. But I mean, if that’s what you were looking for...” She added a wink with her last line. What could she say? She was already in a good mood, and she was talking to two cute girls-- the newer of which she was pretty sure had an actual halo, but then again that might have just been the angle on the sun on her perfectly kept blonde hair. How could she not flirt a bit? It would practically go against her nature to not flirt.

“I’m a student here, just like you, but you probably haven’t seen me ‘round before, I just got here last night,” she told Aurelia. “You’re a third year, you said? That’s good, it’ll be useful to know some upperclassmen.” She hadn’t particularly planned on having any type of mentors here at Beacon, she’d been assuming she would just make it through the best she could by herself, so she wasn’t sure how to react when given the opportunity to learn from an older student. She ended up agreeing with the offer. “And yeah, sure, I wouldn’t mind some extra help.” She smirked, “more is always merrier, except in certain cases, like when fighting Grimm.” Several other examples of when “more” might not necessarily mean “merrier” flashed through her mind, but she managed to refrain from voicing them. To do so would give an impression stranger than the one she had already given, and she didn’t want to come off as too weird just yet; she might run the risk of losing her first potential friends.

Well... “friends” might not be the right word for Aurelia, Azure determined, eyeing the blonde girl. Aurelia seemed too uptight, too different from Azure; friendship probably wouldn’t be the easiest. Azure wasn’t even sure she wanted a friendship from Aurelia. Sure, she’d be a useful acquaintance, but Azure didn’t know if she’d be able to put up with so much formality without snapping from time to time.

“Hey, how hard are the classes here?” Azure asked suddenly, looking up at Aurelia. She squinted as she did so, the sunlight making it hard to see. She was hoping she could prepare herself before diving into the course load. While she wasn’t one to plan during combat, she did like prepping for academics. Azure was well aware of her struggle with classroom style teaching, and knew extra effort would be needed if she wanted to learn and pass her classes. “‘Cause I don’t do to well learning from people just talking at me. It just...” she shrugged, “doesn’t stick in my head very well. It’s somewhat better if I can take notes, but if I can’t then it’s just a nightmare.” She had resumed picking grass as she spoke, and was now braiding a new grass bracelet.
« Last Edit: October 16, 2018, 09:33:15 AM by Azure Blair »
1st Year Beacon Student - Team CASA: Azure Blair

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Re: opening act [Open]
« Reply #17 on: October 16, 2018, 04:13:40 AM »
Listening in to their conversation, Aurelia took note of Azure’s weapon.  A weapon that requires dust to work is problematic, to say the least.  Dust is a limited resource that should be carefully rationed throughout any given mission.  Use too much too early, and the later legs of the mission will become exponentially more difficult.  Refuse to use it, then there’s no point to carrying it at all.  For now, though, Aurelia keeps her thoughts to herself, instead merely listening to the conversation at hand.

Doing so reveals that Azure is some sort of stage performer, a “rock star” if the guitar-weapon, lackadaisical attitude, and overall persona are any indication.  Upon closer inspection, the girl does seem vaguely familiar.  Perhaps she saw a poster in Atlas advertising her tour, or maybe around Vale and Beacon?  It never really interested her at the time, being far too busy with classwork or the tournament.  Quite frankly, given that she’s seeing the woman in the flesh (quite a bit of flesh, at that), she’s still not interested.  A few cursory glances and snippets of conversation tells more than Aurelia needs to know:  Azure is one of those “original” characters, ones that prefer style over substance.  She’s unapologetically reckless, judging by her weapon and this story of swinging a guitar into someone’s face.  And let’s not forget that she strips down to a sports bra in broad daylight with little regard to her surroundings.

There’s at least a bit of consolation, though.  Azure’s at least dimly aware that her presence and actions have consequences.  It may be a reluctant acceptance, but the fact she recognizes herself as a “political statement” at all is a sign that she can grow.  ”Anything worth discussing will be politicized. You should consider it an honor if people think highly enough to try and put you down,” Aurelia says, quoting her adoptive father.  At the very least, Saffron and Azure’s conversation is clearly innocent in nature, judging from the content.

Saffron’s embarrassed reaction confirms her observation.  At least someone can understand the concept of public decency.  Still keeping her stern countenance, Aurelia responds to the echidna faunus’s explanation, ”I see.  In that case, I wish you well in your endeavor. Real world experience is hard to come by, even as a combat academy student.  Perhaps we’ll be working together on a mission while you’re here?”  A goal driven by realistic understanding is one Aurelia can fully support, and she would relish the opportunity to work with a fellow Atlesian Faunus. 

The other faunus, though, does not receive such a kind response to her flirtations. The horse faunus’s expression is still as stone-faced as ever, but her voice carries all the disdain of Atlesian high society.  ”Was that a proposition?  Forgive me.  As much as I would relish the opportunity to jump a half-naked floozy in broad daylight, I’ll have to take a raincheck,” she says icily.  Flirting with Aurelia when she already doubts your motives is definitely the wrong move. 

Unfortunately, that outburst would probably keep Azure from identifying herself as a first year, but there are enough context clues (including Saffron’s explanation) to infer the situation.  ”I see, a new student.  That explains both the weapon and the lack of uniform,” and the blind arrogance, Aurelia left unsaid.  ”I suppose the first thing to do is make sure you’re all settled in. Do you know where you’re staying?  Do you have your room key?  Have you been fitted for your uniform?  Do you have your uniform?  Do you have your schedule?  Do you know where your classes are?  And have you secured a weapons locker?” Aurelia fires off rapid-fire questions, running through a mental checklist of things first years are likely to overlook or possibly disregard.  She may not necessarily like Azure at this point, but her responsibilities as an upperclassman demand she assist the new arrival.  After all, they may end up having to work together at some point.

Aurelia continues, ”As far as classes are concerned, you should be fine if you passed the entrance exam. As long as you maintain a diligent work ethic and attendance record, you should learn all you need to know.  The faculty here is excellent, as expected of a premiere combat academy, and they’ll be more than willing to assist you should you require it.”   
Smokey Emberstone Beacon 1st Year and the Immovable Gunslinger of Team DASE "I've got more than enough firepower to beat you" "You've only got one bullet!" "Like I said, more than enough"

Aurelia Lumen Beacon 3rd year and the Warhorse of Team (TBD)  "Lay down your weapons, lest you wish to taste my steel!"

Wabul "Toast" Paka Shade 1st year and the Acrobatic Swashbuckler of Team (TBD)  "Hey, I'm gonna go jump off a bridge, who's with me?"

Lucas Meridiem Beacon 1st year and the Hermit of Team CLVS  "What's so great about 'bittersweet'?"

Clara Meridiem Beacon 1st year and the Blast Magician of Team (TBD) "No one likes just plain ol' bitter"

August Flare Beacon 1st year and the would-be ruler of the world "Join me, and witness the Brightest Future!"

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Re: opening act [Open]
« Reply #18 on: October 16, 2018, 07:38:40 PM »
’Truely? Painful bit of beautification but I guess we have all done some pretty out there things to look pretty.’ Saffron responded, curious but not wanting to push if the topic was uncomfortable which it half felt like it was. Tattoos had always interested Saffron although she had yet to get one, to worried she would scratch them off while they were healing, she was nevertheless surprised it had no significance. Perhaps surprisingly tattoos weren’t that uncommon among the Atlas students, as long as they could be hidden beneath the uniform, but that was clearly not the situation here. ’An oddly shaped stick is better than no weapon at all, and you still have the axe blades themselves right? But like I said your teammates will play a critical role in your fighting style, at least for the next four years.’ Saffron continued, like Aurelia Saffron was dismayed at someone's only weapon requiring dust to work and that worry clearly flowed into her voice.


’Oh no.’ Saffron remarked struggling to hold in laughter at the image of Azure accidentally smacking her drummer across the head. ’Maybe they need to put you on a separate stage, for everyone else's safety. But I’m sure they got you back for it somehow.’ Saffron continued chuckling away. There again was a reference to Azure’s semblance, something that helps her perform, something that overwhelms her when she is tired, something she can channel through her weapon. An unofficial game of twenty questions which although Saffron knew from personal experience how difficult it could make your schooling but it still wasn’t something she could keep her mind off. ’So do you have a band or does your manager contact musicians on a case by case basis?’ Saffron asked, hoping for the former because it would both ensure Azure has at least some form of support network as well as regardless of her words to the contrary it may keep connections to Atlas as she grows up.


’Just because it does doesn’t mean it should be. Politicizing things that aren’t political overcomplicates them which is doubly fustrating when the subject matter is overcomplicated in the first place. Almost everyone wants to see the Faunus succeed in isolation but when other issues get attached to that, our cheap access to dust or security against the Grimm then many are increasingly willing to allow injustices to go on unopposed if they know they are going on in the first place. Same with having a ‘thick skin,’ just because many do doesn’t mean they should. With all due respect, there is nothing honourable about being the subject of ridicule Aurelia nor dishonourable about avoiding it.’ Saffron responded turning to face the horse Faunus, despite the strict disagreement Saffron did try to sound as passive as possible as she said it was an overcomplicated topic anyway. ’But I’m sure that can be arranged, it would be educational for both of us, all three of us if we can transfer what we learn back.’ Saffron finished gesturing at Azure.


That passivity did quickly vanish as the exchange between Azure and Aurelia grew. Caught a little off guard by the iciness and rapid-fire nature of the questions it took Saffron a few moments to compose herself for a response. ’Aurelia that was uncalled for.’ Saffron exclaimed, although Aurelia wasn’t 100% at fault it was definitely an overreaction to Saffron who would have responded to Azure’s childish remark with a simple shake of her head. Saffron was going to add more but she didn’t want to overstep her bounds by telling Aurelia how she should deal with her younger classmates. Once the conflict had hopefully softened slightly Saffron would try to turn the subject back on topic. ’Actually I was hoping for something a little more direct if you have the time and the temperance maybe we could train together, all together. Hands-on training always seems to stick in my mind the most. You get to impart your personalised lessons and maybe work out any left over… er… tension.’ Saffron finished, it didn’t look like it was going to happen given the rather negative first impressions but that wasn’t the end of the world. Saffron, of course, would still try to help as much as she could even if she spends most of her time on the other side of the world.


As conversation started to die down a little Saffron thought it might be nice to have a little more personal discussion. ’So now that everyone has been introduced how about we get to know each other better? Where did everyone grow up? I was born in Atlas but moved around lot between Menagerie and Atlas with my father and mother respectively but I traveled all over.’ Saffron asked hoping this topic would be less charged than the others. 
No criticism is too harsh so hit me with your best shot.

Calen Shrike - ASTC - First Year Beacon.

Saffron de Cortez - SALT - Third Year Atlas.

Amarant Lovis - (formerly of)ACCE - Headmaster of Atlas Academy

Ramalia - RASB - First Year Shade

Azure Blair

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Re: opening act [Open]
« Reply #19 on: October 17, 2018, 07:03:33 PM »
“Yep. It was... not my proudest moment, I must say.” Maybe some other time she would go more in depth with how she got her vine tattoo, but at the moment she didn’t know Saffron and Aurelia enough to disclose that information. She figured it would be best to wait until some later time, as the story behind the piece of body art was far from something to be shared during a first meeting. Azure figured she would probably never explain the reasoning behind her tattoo to the golden haired horse faunus, though; she could already tell Aurelia looked down on her, and could only imagine how much great that disdain would grow if she heard about Azure’s... less stable side.

Azure shrugged. “I guess, I’ve never really tried to use the blades without the core. I mean, the Dust core is where it generates its power, so I’m not even sure it would turn on without it.” Now that she was saying it outloud, she was realizing how big of a design flaw her Dust core was. She hadn’t been thinking about that when she had made it, she had been too excited by the idea of merging her two favourite things to create her most prized possession. When she had gotten the idea to combine her two biggest coping mechanisms, it had felt like she was finally tying her life together, like before it had been in scattered pieces and now it was wrapped up all nice and pretty and tied with big bow. Of course, not soon after it had all fallen apart again, but that wasn’t the point...

“Oh man, yeah, he definitely got me back for it,” Azure laughed. “I was cleaning glitter out of my hair for a week! And I had to vacuum my bed twice to clean it up!” Sparrow’s retaliation for being hit in the face with a guitar had been several well timed glitter bombs. Which had, of course, resulted in a full on glitter war between the two of them, with the other band members, and back up singers, taking sides. The war had lasted for several weeks, and probably would have continued had it not been for the abrupt ending of her second tour.

“It’s kind of a mix. I’m technically a solo artist, so I don’t have a band, but I do have people I prefer to work with when it comes to picking people for tours and studio work. Like Sparrow, the guy I hit in the face, is my favourite drummer to work with. I met him during my first tour and we became really good friends. He worked on Eclipse with me, too, since I liked him better than the drummer for my debut,” Azure explained. Crim, the drummer for her first album had been much more of a novice than Sparrow. Crim had been going to accompany Azure on her first tour until a car accident left him with a broken arm. Sparrow had been the replacement, and Azure had found she got along a lot better with him and with Crim.

At Aurelia’s comment, Azure froze, her expression hardening. Her navy eyes flashed. A growl akin to that of a wolf rumbled in the back of her throat. “I wouldn’t really call repeated bomb threats an honor,” she said bluntly, hoping to shut Aurelia down with her lack of sugar-coating. Her voice was low in pitch as she spoke, her words sharp. Her tail had bristled, everything about her posture screaming that she was all too ready to fight the beautiful blonde.

As the topic changed, Azure remained on edge, only to quickly throw on her laid back persona once more at Aurelia’s icy tone. She wouldn’t give the horse girl the satisfaction of her seeing her upset by such a comment. Instead, she grinned coolly. “Would it help if I was fully naked?” She swished her wolf tail playfully, it brushed against Aurelia’s ankles. However, it wasn’t enough to hide Azure’s growing dislike of the goddess-looking girl.

The sarcasm that dripped from Azure’s voice was practically tangible as she answered Aurelia’s slew of questions. “No, I don’t know where I’m staying, I just found a random room and claimed it. No, I don’t have my room key, I climbed through the window. Of course I have my uniform, while else would I be wearing normal clothes? I mean it’s not like they give you your schedule upon arrival or anything, that would be crazy, am I right? Given that I’ve only been conscious at this school for like four hours, I’ve obviously had so much time to figure out where all my classes are. Yeah I got a locker and then just chose to carry a guitar around all day. Capeesh?” She rolled her eyes as she spoke, toying with the strings of Renegade.

“Ya know, Saf, I don’t think training together would end too well.” She eyed Aurelia. “I don’t think miss princess here would be able to handle my informality, I fear she might mentally implode if she had to work with me.” A hotty smirk grew across her face as she spoke, as if challenging Aurelia to counter her.

At the change of topic, Azure sat up and re-situated herself so she was against the trunk of the tree. She continued pulling up grass. “Born and raised in Atlas,” she said, “fun times...” She glanced back over at Aurelia. Even if she was wearing a beacon uniform, Azure still reckoned she could safely guess she was from Atlas a well. Or maybe Aurelia had mentioned being from Atlas earlier-- if she had, Azure hadn’t been paying attention.
1st Year Beacon Student - Team CASA: Azure Blair

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Re: opening act [Open]
« Reply #20 on: October 18, 2018, 05:09:52 AM »
The chat between Azure and Saffron continues, and Aurelia finds some of the subject matter to be most uninteresting.  To be frank, she cares little for the subject of body art, piercings, and the like.  If others wish to adorn their bodies with such trivialities, it’s fine by her as long as it doesn’t get in the way of her work.

The weapon, on the other hand, does pique Aurelia’s interest, though not in a necessarily positive way.  Where does she begin?  ”Dust is a finite resource, and field missions could take days or even weeks to complete.  Eventually, your weapon will run out of dust, and a non-functioning weapon is, at best, a glorified club and, at worst, dead weight.  I highly recommend you address that at the first available opportunity.  There is a forge here with all the materials you will need,” she critiques.  Aurelia’s certain Azure won’t want to hear it from her, even more so if the wolf faunus had crafted it by hand.  But a potentially crippling flaw should be resolved as quickly as possible. 

Though, as controversial as telling someone to change the weapon they worked so hard to create is, apparently Aurelia had unintentionally stumbled into a debacle of a different sort.  It seems her dismissal of baseless detractors has met with a surprising amount of resistance.  Azure’s entire demeanor had changed, in fact, to the point she looked like she wanted to fight.  Perhaps Aurelia should clarify.  ”There seems to be a grave misunderstanding.  I do not condone threats of violence or acts of ridicule.  Public figures have always come under scrutiny, no matter their line of work.  Whether it’s right or wrong is irrelevant, it simply is.  And it only gets worse if you try to hide from it.  That creates room for rumors to circulate, which will inevitably further damage your reputation,” she explains.  Aurelia’s no stranger to petty politics.  She’s the adopted daughter of a wealthy Atlesian, which means she had to withstand the scrutiny of the Atlesian elite starting from the age of ten.  Those people actually had more than enough power and influence to take her down, if they were so inclined, but she couldn’t afford to stay closeted in the shadows.

”That being said, if mere music managed to shatter someone’s world view so thoroughly they were driven to send you death threats, that is an accomplishment, even if you never necessarily wanted it,” Aurelia says to Azure.  Yes, that was indeed a compliment, or at least as close to one as Aurelia can get.  It may not be worth much at this point, but it’s something.

Unfortunately, any points Azure might have scored with Aurelia on that topic quickly vanish as the first-year’s sarcasm bleeds through in the form of continued flirtations.  Aurelia has half a mind to stomp on the tail as it brushes her ankles, but she refrains from doing so for the moment.  Her disdain only increases as Azure goes on an entirely unnecessary and sarcastic rant in response to her questions.  And while that in and of itself was obnoxious, the fact Azure continues to show zero respect toward Aurelia is unacceptable.  So, when Saffron suggests some “hands-on” training, a small smirk appears on the knight’s face.  If nothing else, Azure will learn manners.

”’Informality’?  Informal’s certainly one word to describe you.  I’d have chosen ‘arrogant’, ‘childish’, ‘impulsive’, ‘reckless’, ‘disrespectful’…the list goes on, really.  But, no, ‘informal’ works,” Aurelia retorts to Azure’s smart remark almost immediately.  ”Also, ‘princess’?  If you’re going to resort to name-calling, the least you could do is try to make it insulting.  If your lyrics are as creative as your insults, I can imagine why you would look into another career.”     

As Saffron attempts to change the subject, Aurelia is somewhat surprised to learn Azure is also Atlesian.  She embodies none of the traditional aspects that one would expect, but fact can sometimes be stranger than fiction.  ”I am also of Atlas.  I am the adopted daughter of the Lumen family, you may know of them if you’re locals,” Aurelia says.  The Lumens are wealthy, sure, but not to the extent of the Royales or the Schnees.  Still, they do hold some degree of prominence, it wouldn’t be too surprising for someone who grew up in Atlas to know of them.  Their name certainly came up when Aurelia was adopted, that’s for sure.  Faunus don’t get adopted into aristocratic Atlesian families every day, after all.   

Smokey Emberstone Beacon 1st Year and the Immovable Gunslinger of Team DASE "I've got more than enough firepower to beat you" "You've only got one bullet!" "Like I said, more than enough"

Aurelia Lumen Beacon 3rd year and the Warhorse of Team (TBD)  "Lay down your weapons, lest you wish to taste my steel!"

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Lucas Meridiem Beacon 1st year and the Hermit of Team CLVS  "What's so great about 'bittersweet'?"

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Re: opening act [Open]
« Reply #21 on: October 19, 2018, 07:58:20 AM »
’That must be difficult for your accompanying musicians, learning dozens of songs over a short period is never easy, that and building chemistry must mean there is quite a bit more pressure than otherwise. I guess the garage band dream doesn’t really exist as much anymore but it’s good you’ve found people you can connect to. Even if you are in the habit of attacking them.’ Saffron responds raising an eyebrow teasingly, it may be a low blow but it wasn’t something that Saffron was going to let Azure forget quickly. Aurelia seemed to cover most of the weaknesses of Renegade not functioning without dust well enough that Saffron didn’t feel the need to add anything on that front. Too sympathetic to remain completely quiet as the exchange between Azure and Aurelia grew increasingly hostile Saffron instead took up a ‘good cop’ role. ’Your weapon will undergo dozens of changes over your years at At… Beacon and there is no shame in that, only when you refuse to adapt is there going to be an issue.’ Saffron assured Azure knowing how personal her connection would be if something was the combination of her weapons and 12 string.


’Aurelia I think you are oversimplifying considerably. Keeping a subject on the topic isn’t hiding, it’s the opposite of hiding and the reality that people often don’t always see it that way doesn’t make right. You must be the change you wish to see in the world and if you pedantically change things it will take so long you might as well spend your time drinking for all the good it will do anyone.’ Saffron argued again trying to keep her voice passive. There was a lot of disagreement here and it may not be coming from simple misunderstanding rather fundamentally different worldviews and if that is the case Saffron did hope to be able to salvage the relationship even if Azure doesn’t seem interested. ’And people don’t send death threats because their ‘worldview is shattered.’ They do it to enforce their worldview through fear and violence, terrorism is not a compliment.’ Saffron added, stopping just short of condemning Aurelia personally but the words floated heavy but unspoken in the air.


’Well, not every fight you get into will be with your drummer Azure, and as long as you can control yourself in the sparing ring better than you can in friendly conversation there is unlikely to be an issue.’ Saffron remarked facing the horse Faunus’ direction. Saffron wasn’t hiding that she was taking a lot of Aurelia’s words to Azure quite personally, they had been applied to her more times than she could count. ’In fact, it could be good practice for both of you, working with people with different… outlooks is an inevitability for hunters. If you want things to be a little more organised the Specialists are hiring occasionally.’ Saffron continued hoping to gain something positive out of this altercation before quickly realising she may be pushing Azure into a fight she isn’t comfortable with even if she wouldn’t say so herself. ’But we can work up to that, maybe I can play the part of a warming pool, getting you both warmed up and read…. You know what I mean.’ Saffron finished still trying and failing to dissuade the assumptions of Aurelia which she had unknowingly to Saffron discarded already.


’Well we are all from Atlas eh? What are the chances?’ Saffron joked trying to salvage the mood. The question clearly didn’t bring up anything positive for Azure and the reference of being an ‘adopted’ daughter did imply something equally negative behind the stern exterior. The Lumen name did ring a bell though, Avery has probably dueled against some and equally probably lost. Why the most sensible triplet still partook in such wastes of time was beyond Saffron but she still nodded to signify recognition. Regardless Saffron’s expression did soften from neutrality to genuine sympathy, Saffron was hardly from nobility and still, she often found herself treated more like an impossible to remove stain than a child although perhaps that was more her father. ’I guess bonding over difficulties would be too easy?’ Saffron commented before trying a different tact. ’Well being all from the artic wonderland what would you guys do in the scant few summer months? I often found myself too busy studying to do much now I have more control over my time I’m curious what others got up to.’ Saffron asked, hopefully, this question wouldn’t result in the outpouring of bad vibes as her previous did but you never know.
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Re: opening act [Open]
« Reply #22 on: October 20, 2018, 11:49:56 AM »
As Azure listened to Aurelia talk, she rolled her eyes, not caring for what the horses girl had to say. Renegade had always worked, her dust core hadn’t failed her yet, and she saw no hint that it would be failing her any time soon. And she figured if it ever did die she could just refill it, or make a new one. She had made the core a while back, and it had yet to lose power, so why would it die now? If it could last that long, who was to say it couldn’t last longer? That was her logic, however flawed it may be. She just didn’t want to accept that maybe Aurelia had a point-- she was too proud to admit her weapon design was so severely flawed.

“Oi I didn’t do it on purpose!” Azure laughed, taking a handful of the grass she had pulled up and throwing it casually at Saffron. She continued on, happily discussing music. “Well a lot of the time the people who tour with me are the people who worked on the album with me, so they are already somewhat familiar with the songs. And then, of course, it’s not like we just jump on an aircraft and start touring, we rehearse for months beforehand.” Azure wouldn’t even want to form a permanent band, she much preferred being a solo artist. Being in a band ran the risk of them breaking up; if you’re a solo act, you can’t exactly break up with yourself.

“I couldn’t have said it better myself,” Azure agreed with Saffron. “And if getting bomb threats is an accomplishment, then hell, I don’t want to be successful,” she scoffed. Azure’s main issue with the resistance people put up against her fight for the spotlight wasn’t that her reputation would be damaged. She couldn’t care less about what bigoted journalists said about her, she didn’t care what the headlines said. But when innocent fans came into play, that was when things became as issue. Azure could handle it if the death threats were aimed solely at herself, but as soon as the risk of a bombing, or any other act of terrorism that would injure her fans arose, that was where she drew the line. She would rather stay irrelevant and unsuccessful than risk the lives of people who just wanted to enjoy some music.

The word princess held more of an insult than Aurelia seemed to catch on. It then became evident to Azure that Aurelia had never heard a lick of her music. “Take your heart of stone, build it to a throne, you don't seem to know you'll be up there all alone. Princess, better catch your crown before it all falls down,” she said, her voice cold as she quoted the lyrics of her most recent single all fall down, a preview for her upcoming album which bore the same name. “In layman terms, you're so busy being a stuck up bitch, acting like you're above everyone else, that you don't realize it's all gonna backfire some day and leave you standing in the ruins. Princess.” Of course, it wasn’t smart to make insults by referencing one’s own content, especially when there was a high possibility of the person being insulted not understanding. But then again, Azure was never good at making good decisions.

Azure’s perception of Aurelia did a near complete 180 as the horse girl mentioned she was adopted. The fur of her tail lay flat once more, her expression softening somewhat. She mindless plucking of Renegade’s strings ceased. So Aurelia was adopted. That meant, at some point, somehow, she had lost her parents. Azure wondered how young she was when it had happened. How much did she remember? Did she dream of them? Did she miss them? Were they dead or had they just given her up? Azure wasn’t sure which would was worse. She debated saying something, adding in her own input (my parents are dead too) but she refrained. She didn’t want to make the conversation about her, she didn’t want to turn it into the two of them trying to one up each other in tragedy.

“Mainly write music,” Azure replied to Saffron. “Summer is always nice ‘cause I can work outside. Also there are more Grimm during the warmer months, so more chance for real combat training.” She picked up Renegade once more, setting it on her lap and playing a few random chords as she spoke. She didn’t seem to really notice she was doing it, it was just instinctive at this point; if there was a guitar around, pick it up and play it. She quickly ran through the intro to Blackbird as she waited for Aurelia’s reply. Not that she really cared what the haloed girl did during the summer, but she polite enough to at least make it seem like she was listening, even if she wasn’t.

She was too busy thinking about what Aurelia had said about being adopted. She wondered if she had had to go through multiple families before doing so, or if she’d gone straight from an orphanage to the Lumen family. Looking at Aurelia, Azure figured she probably got adopted straight away, she didn’t look like the type of girl that would let herself go through multiple families. Not that that was how it worked, but she gave off an aura of determination and perfection that made it seem like she would be satisfied with nothing less than being adopted immediately. Like it would just be impossible to foster her then send her back.
1st Year Beacon Student - Team CASA: Azure Blair

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Re: opening act [Open]
« Reply #23 on: October 21, 2018, 04:58:24 AM »
It seems, despite Saffron’s encouragement, Aurelia’s criticism of Azure’s weapon fell on deaf ears.  The fact that not one, but two fellow students managed to point out the flaw the instant the mechanism was revealed should have been more than enough evidence to convince her that it needed to be addressed.  However, Azure’s reaction fits the profile Aurelia’s constructed so far: her stream of condescending descriptors weren’t merely insults designed to put Azure in her place.  They were that, too, but they were also character flaws Aurelia’s observed in the short time they’ve been conversing.  In this case, arrogance and childishness.

Aurelia keeps her thoughts to herself, though.  No point in wasting her breath if the new student refuses to listen.  Besides which, she felt the next point of conversation held far more importance.  The apparent passivity Saffron and Azure demonstrate when considering anonymous threats will only serve to their detriment in one way or another.  She needed to drive this home, and thus says, ”Appeasement of aggression will only invite more aggression.  Anonymous threats cannot be negotiated with by very definition.  And the fact of the matter is simply receiving those threats places you on the same footing of every king who has ever made a controversial decision ever.”

”For whatever reason, the people sending you threats find you and whatever you stand for important enough to want you out of the picture.  Whether or not they’re capable of delivering on said threats is irrelevant.  What matters is how you respond.  You could give into them, abandon your career, disappoint anyone and everyone who ever believed in you, and most importantly reinforce this terrible, cowardly, and utterly despicable behavior.  Or you could press on in spite of them, and take every precaution available to make sure they never have a chance to hurt anyone.  Men don’t follow those who kneel.”  Despite the obvious differences between the two, Aurelia feels similarly to Azure on this subject: innocent lives shouldn’t be put at risk.  But those with small minds will find and use whatever tactics they have available to push their nonsensical agenda. 

Unfortunately, common ground seems to be few and far between, and Aurelia has to stew for a minute after Azure explains the true meaning behind the word “princess”.  It’s only thanks to her incredible discipline that her face doesn’t contort in anger in response, her pursed lips and momentary silence act as the only sign Azure’s tongue-lashing had any impact at all.  It stung, but Aurelia suffers through in silence, before her lips finally relax.  But then, bizarrely, they curl into a slight smile.

”Hmm, well done,” she says in an oddly pleasant tone, ”you’ve insulted my demeanor, implied I have no friends, and insulted my intelligence by explaining it to me out of meter, rather than letting me interpret it for myself.  A much better put-down.  In respect, I shall rescind my comment on your lyrics.  Though, in return, I’d like to borrow your analogy for a bit.”  Her smile disappears as she finishes, her face returning to a neutral, stern expression.

”Tell me, which is better?  To sit among the rubble of your own creation, or standing in dirt not having built anything at all?  Is it better to bear the crown for a moment before the weight crushes you, or to always remain in the faceless mob?”  Aurelia’s eyes are sharp as she takes a step forward towards Azure for emphasis.  ”You may see me as haughty and alone, and I may sit on a crumbling throne.  But I’ll gladly sit if that’s the price of trying to hold myself to a higher standard.  What about you?  Would you face the prospect of ruination in pursuit of greatness?  Or will you stay in the filth of the masses, always afraid of the sky? 

Aurelia held eye contact with Azure for a few seconds to make sure her point was driven home, but then broke off to turn to Saffron and say, ”My sincere apologies.  From the moment I walked up, I seem to have darkened and hijacked your conversation, which was never my intention.” her posture and countenance has softened considerably as she spoke, and she gives a slight apologetic bow before turning back to Azure.  ”And to you.  I should not have snapped at you as I did.  I won’t make excuses, only offer an apology.  I’m sorry,” she says, again offering a bow. 

The reason Azure’s insult stuck so hard this time was because it accurately criticized Aurelia’s actions up to that point.  Baseless accusations and slander can be dismissed outright, and the horse faunus has been called enough names to fill a dictionary.  But if an insult reveals a flaw, then the knight has no choice but to address it.  After all, she holds herself to a higher standard.

”*Ahem!* Anyways, I believe we were discussing the possibility of sparring?  I have no doubt there are still aggressions that still need to be worked out, so perhaps we can move this conversation toward a practice arena?” Aurelia stiffens back up as she changes subjects, uncomfortable with being vulnerable.  ”Let’s see, summers…Well, for the most part, Father would keep me in Atlas to further my education, but on weekends I would occasionally return to my birth-family to spend time with them and go horseback riding.”

Azure (and most likely Saffron) unfortunately had the wrong impression concerning Aurelia’s adoption.  To be fair, the circumstances were notably bizarre, but nonetheless, Aurelia’s birth-family is alive and well.  More importantly, she is in consistent contact with them and on good terms.  Aurelia was actually granted the privilege of joining the Lumen family as gratitude for saving a young Pearl Lumen’s life, where she would have access to better education and a much higher chance of success.   

Smokey Emberstone Beacon 1st Year and the Immovable Gunslinger of Team DASE "I've got more than enough firepower to beat you" "You've only got one bullet!" "Like I said, more than enough"

Aurelia Lumen Beacon 3rd year and the Warhorse of Team (TBD)  "Lay down your weapons, lest you wish to taste my steel!"

Wabul "Toast" Paka Shade 1st year and the Acrobatic Swashbuckler of Team (TBD)  "Hey, I'm gonna go jump off a bridge, who's with me?"

Lucas Meridiem Beacon 1st year and the Hermit of Team CLVS  "What's so great about 'bittersweet'?"

Clara Meridiem Beacon 1st year and the Blast Magician of Team (TBD) "No one likes just plain ol' bitter"

August Flare Beacon 1st year and the would-be ruler of the world "Join me, and witness the Brightest Future!"

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Re: opening act [Open]
« Reply #24 on: October 24, 2018, 12:59:41 AM »
’I guess beating up your bandmates would cause some conflict but it would have been good practice if you still decided to go to Beacon.’ Saffron continued teasing, it was an unfortunate reality that everything began must end but that wasn’t a reason Saffron would agree with to avoid such relationships. ’I’m sure it helps but I don’t think it’s the same thing as being there throughout the whole process, you definitely make it work of course so maybe it just makes sense in concept.’ Saffron remarked. Like many young people with a talent for music Saffron once dreamed of starting a band, in the end, her sense of justice won out but it was still a pleasant daydream.  Particularly considering Saffron was hardly the most popular child growing up but maybe it wasn’t all that she built it up in her head. ’But it’s good that you’ve got a network of like-minded people to bounce ideas off, which I guess are the important parts of being in a band.’ Saffron finished, although it initially sounded lonely Azure seemed to be comfortable enough with the arrangement.
 
’Again that is an oversimplification Aurelia. Enduring ridicule passively is as much appeasement as cowering before it. However, due to our overly politicised reality, it is difficult to properly respond without also reinforcing other negative stereotypes. The problem isn’t necessarily for us, a few more obstacles just makes it more fun, it’s for those caught in the crossfire. People just living their lives, going to work every day is hard enough without having to worry about additional harassment.’ Saffron argued, her tone becoming increasingly sympathetic. Aurelia’s words made her position a lot more understandable, valuing her own individual achievements made sense if you lived in a world that seemed to be determined to tear her down. ’It will only backfire if you stumble Aurelia and we will do everything we can to keep your tower up. Just try to be a little less judgemental in the future.’ Saffron assured Aurelia. Although the older student probably didn’t need Saffron’s support it was still important for Saffron that the other third-year knew she had it.

’Or less direct forms of training, sparing is just one route we could go down or perhaps workout circuits or weapon techniques. Or even we could spar first, whatever Azure is most comfortable and feels will be the most beneficial. After all, this is all about your journey not out own.’ Saffron responds before turning back to Aurelia before turning back to face Azure. Now that the conflict between Azure and Aurelia seemed to have faded a bit Saffron was less worried about any training getting out of hand but obviously like she said it was up to her. ’Did you ever compete in horse riding Aurelia? Either eventing or endurance? One of my father’s friends used to do three-day eventing and she would constantly go on about how difficult that was. I guess she was tired of people downplaying it for thinking all the riders do is just sit there. And that’s another advantage of moving to Beacon, longer and warmer summers for longer and better albums.’ Saffron commented thinking how she would incorporate either into her own life. Writing songs wasn’t exactly a skill she had and although she would never develop such if she never tried it still didn’t really seem worth her time. Likewise, with horse riding, Saffron had learned to ride from her father and grew to care deeply for the surprisingly intelligent creatures but that intelligence only made it all the more devastating when the reality of animal ownership revealed itself.
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Re: opening act [Open]
« Reply #25 on: October 27, 2018, 06:26:49 PM »
“Exactly. It’s all the good parts of a band with none of the downsides.” Azure continued to sprinkle grass over Saffron as she spoke. She had once thought briefly of forming a band, but had quickly decided against it. She much preferred to be a solo artists. To her, that meant her songs could be more personal, and she was all about being open and honest in her music.

There was a beat of silence after Aurelia spoke, before the soft click of Renegade activating could be heard. The quiet hum of the core buzzed through the air as the blades slide out, deep blue aura crackling up and down the strings. Azure used her guitar to pull herself to her feet, staring down at Aurelia with a cold glare. Her thick soled boots added about an inch to her already tall frame, enabling her to easily tower over the shorter girl. She was gripping her activated weapon like the battle axe it was, further amplifying her apparent desire to brawl it out with Aurelia right then and there. When she spoke, her voice was low in pitch, a growl, hissed through clenched teeth.

“Perhaps you didn’t hear me correctly. The backlash to my music wasn’t something insignificant like online rants or negative news articles, it was bomb threats. As in, the actual expression of a desire to hurt not just me, but hundreds of innocent people who like to listen to what I play. I am not “giving in” or “abandoning my career”, I am trying to keep innocent people safe.” She stepped back slightly to gesture at the garden around them. “That’s what being a huntsman is all about: keeping the innocent from harm’s way. Trying to do so is not cowardly, nor despicable. Unlike you, I’m not so caught up on my image that I’ll just toss away every threat just to appear “strong” or “resilient” or whatever it is you’re trying to accomplish. If you continue on that path you’ll end up putting yourself before everyone else, and people will die because of it.” She deactivated Renegade, but still looked as though she wanted to smack Aurelia across the face with it. “Your words are contradictions of themselves. It is impossible to “press on” and keep anyone from being hurt at the same time. I ended my last tour early in order to keep people from being hurt. Had I “pressed on”, people-- young, innocent people-- would have died. Men may not follow those who kneel, but they don’t follow those who allow murder just to keep a public image, either.”

“Well I had to spell it out for you,” Azure spoke with a haughty smirk. “You’d be too narrow minded to realize it otherwise.” She leaned against the large tree with her arms crossed over her chest, her expression smug. This smugness, however, was replaced quickly with another stern glare as Aurelia used her throne analogy to further explain her side of the argument.

“It all depends on what the throne is built on,” Azure retorted. “If you gain your position through honest work and an attempt to better society, then sure, that moment of power will be worth it. But if your gilded throne is founded on the backs of those you put down just to feel better about yourself, if it is build on the corpses of those who died just so you could appear strong to the media, then I would rather go unnoticed in the crowd. Wanting power and recognition is harmless, honourable, even, but if it requires you to crush everyone else around you then you do not deserve your crown, you deserve to fall.” Azure didn’t look away as Aurelia held her gaze-- a silent face off between a wild beast and a challenger, and wolves were not the type of animal to back down easily.

“Well according to miss tryhard here my weapon is useless, so sparring may be the only route we could go,” Azure said to Saffron, somewhat bitterly. It was clear she took offense to the critiques of her weapon, and she wasn’t the type of person to take criticism lightly. “If, as it seems to be suggested, Renegade will die every time I try to use it then what’s the point of practicing with it. It would be better to train in hand to hand, since apparently that’s all I’ll be able to use in a fight.” Any other time she may have taken the comments on Renegade’s flaws into consideration, but at the moment she was too mad at Aurelia to do so, she would rather push back against them.
« Last Edit: October 29, 2018, 11:10:03 AM by Azure Blair »
1st Year Beacon Student - Team CASA: Azure Blair

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Re: opening act [Open]
« Reply #26 on: October 29, 2018, 12:47:11 AM »
Aurelia is, in a word, perturbed.  She’s very good at hiding it, thanks to an upbringing that rewarded a good poker face above all, but Saffron’s words give Aurelia the strong impression that her ideological arguments are falling on deaf ears.  No refute comes immediately, however.  After making her apology, Aurelia silently acknowledged to herself that she should at least take time to digest their arguments. 

She doesn’t get the chance, however, as Azure activated her weapon and practically snarled in the horse faunus’s face.  Yet, despite the height difference and clear intention of violence, Aurelia shows no sign of fear, shock, or even mild surprise.  She’s faced down actual monsters in deadly combat, it’ll take much more than an angry and naïve first-year to frighten her.  Instead, she looks at Azure with a gaze of disappointment.  It’s always a shame to see someone destroy their argument with their own actions.

”Forgive me, I didn’t realize I needed to qualify my statement.  Very well, you may assume anytime I use the word ‘threat’ to mean ‘bomb threat’.  You may assume when I say ‘threaten you’ to mean ‘threaten you and your fans’.  Do I need to clarify anything else?” she begins, dispassionately staring back at the wolf faunus.  ”Now then, you are correct in saying a huntress’s job is to keep people safe.  So, how did ending your tour early address the threats—excuse me, bomb threats—against you?  I’ll concede that without a tour, there would be no chance for harm, however what do you think will happen if you ever decide to tour again?  Do you think they’ll simply forget and leave you—pardon, you and your fans—alone?  Worse, what do you think will happen when another artist inevitably draws their attention?”
           
”I won’t fault you for your intentions, but your actions did not consider the bigger picture.  By ending your tour early, you’ve proven to them that you and others like you can be silenced with intimidation tactics.  They’ll continue to use those tactics against you, because small minds will use whatever they can to silence voices they disagree with.”  Aurelia pauses for a moment here, sparing a very unsubtle glance toward Azure’s battle-axe.  It should be noted that Aurelia is currently unarmed, in a school uniform, and has her hands behind her back.  This has been the case since she joined the conversation.  Furthermore, they’re standing in a public garden in full view of every student and faculty member that happen to be near-by.  Azure may say she doesn’t care about projecting an image, but Aurelia wonders if that’s really the case.

She continues, ”My words are not contradictory in the slightest.  If I say I’m going to protect someone, I don’t let them get hurt.  If I say I’m going to press on, then there’s nothing on Remnant that will stop me.  There is no compromise needed.”  That may have sounded like a boast, but to Aurelia, they were practically an oath.  She wanted to be known as a defender of the people that stood steadfast against the forces of darkness.  If nothing else, she would back up those words or die trying.

She’s still not quite done with her rebuttal, though.  ”Furthermore, if you think men wouldn’t follow a strong image, regardless of its origin, then you know very little of leadership.  You need only look to the Great War for evidence to the contrary.  To the public, image is everything,” Aurelia says.  Note that Aurelia does not actually condone fear-mongering as a method to rise to power, she’s merely trying to make a point.  Though, she doubts Azure will see it that way.

As Azure attempts to pontificate on the “throne” analogy to clarify it as an insult, Aurelia simply listens.  It’s clear that Azure is trying to imply Aurelia is an uncaring tyrant who tramples on other people to further her own goals.  That observation couldn’t be farther from the truth.  Aurelia’s actions are merely the result of her attempts to fulfill her duty, both as a huntress-in-training and as a member of the Lumen family.  So, it might be a surprise when Aurelia responds, ”I don’t disagree in the slightest.”

”It makes no difference, you may pick whatever form of training or terms you wish, but perhaps this conversation would be best moved to the training arena?” the cavalier asks the two, taking a step towards said arena.  ”As for your question, Miss Saffron, I’ve only ever competed in one such event, thought I do know quite a bit about the sport.  You’re correct in that a skilled rider is absolutely necessary, but the most difficult part is raising and training the horse.  Keep in mind the objective is to urge an animal with no situational awareness to jump over an obstacle when it would ordinarily make far more sense to go around, and that’s simply one portion of the trials,” she explained with a surprising bit of enthusiasm.  It’s apparent Saffron had stumbled upon a passionate topic.             
Smokey Emberstone Beacon 1st Year and the Immovable Gunslinger of Team DASE "I've got more than enough firepower to beat you" "You've only got one bullet!" "Like I said, more than enough"

Aurelia Lumen Beacon 3rd year and the Warhorse of Team (TBD)  "Lay down your weapons, lest you wish to taste my steel!"

Wabul "Toast" Paka Shade 1st year and the Acrobatic Swashbuckler of Team (TBD)  "Hey, I'm gonna go jump off a bridge, who's with me?"

Lucas Meridiem Beacon 1st year and the Hermit of Team CLVS  "What's so great about 'bittersweet'?"

Clara Meridiem Beacon 1st year and the Blast Magician of Team (TBD) "No one likes just plain ol' bitter"

August Flare Beacon 1st year and the would-be ruler of the world "Join me, and witness the Brightest Future!"

Hexcodes:
515151
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E55812
CCE9AE
Cyan
FFA400

Kingnoname1

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Re: opening act [Open]
« Reply #27 on: November 01, 2018, 04:45:19 AM »
Saffron was on her feet before she even knew she was moving, positioning herself between Azure and Aurelia. It appeared their ‘discussion’ wasn’t calming down after all and in fact had magnified in intensity many times. ’Azure stand down. Ignorance is not malice and it does not deserve this kind of response.’ Saffron begged Azure, her hands raised at both Azure and Aurelia. ’But it is still ignorance Aurelia, aside from the pettiness you are saying proving a point is more important than protecting people's lives. Which is made only more ridiculous by the fact the people you are trying to convince aren’t the type to care about evidence in the first place. It doesn’t mean you shouldn’t try of course but it should be balanced against the cost.’ Saffron argued. It was clear that this had gotten under everyone's skin and wasn’t exactly the best basis for building positive relationships so Saffron hoped that the halfway point she offered was satisfactory even though it heavily leaned towards Azure’s position. ’But on to the matter at hand as long as you are comfortable with it Azure and are aware that you can step out at any time sparring sounds like it’s a good way to start, I made some of my best friends trying to cave their head’s in.’ Saffron joked as Azure depowered he weapon and Aurelia started to walk off, following the latter but still staying between the former.

Normally Saffron would have been hesitant at ‘allowing’ a spar, not that she could really stop it even if she wanted to, the heightened emotion that everyone was feeling would make it easier to do something stupid whether accidentally or on purpose. But rather overt threats of violence had already been made and the situation was likely to only escalate further even if it started out as just words. And of course Saffron would be there to watch over, she wasn’t genuinely worried about Aurelia as she was sure her fellow third-year could hold her own but mistakes can always happen when one party is going all out and the other is holding back and the pair don’t need any more bad blood between them. Twiddling away with her bass Saffron hoped the music would do something to calm everyone down before trying to keep the conversation going. ’So I guess it’s like us really, the training week in and week out, rain or snow or sun… well not so much the second one here, unfortunately. But regardless training so hard that even the fiercest Grimm is a downgrade if anything is more important to success than natural talent. So yeah, do you do any other competitive horse riding or just don’t have the time? And what kind of horse do you ride, my father took in an old Destrier when I was young. She was a gorgeous thing, clearly had a hard life but still kept up such a wonderful spring in her step until the end. What about you Azure horse riding yay or neigh? Probably doesn’t fit in with the whole punk rocker thing.’ Saffron asked her smile dimming slightly at the mention of her old horse but brightening up again when she did her horse impression.

’We should also talk a little about the specifics of the spar as it appears everyone is interested. What aura levels will you stop it? Semblance usage allowed? Weapons limitations? Any specific terrain? That sort of thing.’ Saffron quizzed hoping both to make sure everyone was informed about the current fight but also to make sure Azure understood the severity of what she was getting into. This wouldn’t be like any fight she had in her previous combat schools, Aurelia had a powerful semblance and was a very competent warrior. The point wasn’t for Azure to win obviously but she needed to put up enough of a fight to learn something if she wanted to learn something after all. With a poor personal experience with sparring being used for cruel ‘lessons’ Saffron was definitely going to be keeping a close eye on the proceedings, tough love is fine but it still had limits. Dropping back a little to get mostly out of Aurelia’s hearing Saffron started playing a little louder to mask the sounds as she whispered into Azure’s ear. ’Are you sure you are up to this? It’s not bravery to throw yourself into a situation you aren’t prepared for.’ Saffron whispered to Azure.
No criticism is too harsh so hit me with your best shot.

Calen Shrike - ASTC - First Year Beacon.

Saffron de Cortez - SALT - Third Year Atlas.

Amarant Lovis - (formerly of)ACCE - Headmaster of Atlas Academy

Ramalia - RASB - First Year Shade

Azure Blair

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Re: opening act [Open]
« Reply #28 on: November 03, 2018, 03:36:14 PM »
By now Azure had realized she couldn’t let her anger get in the way, as hard as that was to do. She was naturally a very emotional person, she listened to heart instead of her head, and Aurelia was the exact opposite. If she wanted a chance to win this argument, she needed to aim to match Aurelia in poise, something that would probably be impossible to even come close to; she was doing herself no good by lashing out like she had been.

Azure leaned back against the tree, regarding Aurelia with a cool gaze. “Oh, please, clarification is entirely necessary. If all you say is threats, how am I to know you don’t mean that time someone hung around outside my apartment with a gun, or that time someone jumped on stage with a knife. Now both were easy to get rid of, and didn’t really pose much of a danger-- what’s a knife against a battle axe-- but it would count as a threat, would it not? What you don’t seem to realize here, is that I have continued on despite threats, the only reason I “backed down” from the bomb threats was because I needed to save lives. Ending the tour gave authorities time to hunt down the people sending the threats, and dispose of them while also keeping everyone else safe. And if someone else was threatened-- injured-- I would do everything in my power to hunt down the whoever, or whatever, was responsible and make them pay.”

Azure didn’t fail to miss Aurelia’s glance at her weapon; this prompted her glare to harden more. She silently dared Aurelia to comment on it, dared her to challenge Azure’s informality more than she already had. The girl’s composure only annoyed Azure even more. How could someone just be so calm and perfect in this kind of situation? Azure herself had always been one to easily fall for taunts and prompts from people who just wanted to get a rise out of her, and this wasn’t that different. Aurelia was keeping calm and collected, a simple argument that, to her, probably didn’t even seem like an argument. And then there was Azure letting herself get worked up and angry and emotional, letting Aurelia’s words get under her skin enough that she felt the need to draw her weapon! She didn’t understand how the horse girl could do it. The best she could do in this situation was try to conceal her anger a bit more, put on her stage persona. She smirked as she gnawed at a hangnail.

“Girl,” she said, slipping into her “interview voice”, the attitude she used to appear fun yet casual, like any good rock star should, when on TV. “I thought it was pre established that History is my worst subject, how do ya expect me to remember how specific leader were treated? An’ believe me, I know all about public image, and putting down a whole bunch of people for selfish reasons? Well, I’d say that’d ruin your image pretty well.”

Azure tuned out as Saffron and Aurelia discussed horseback riding. She had never gone horseback riding, and had no intention on ever doing, she figured she had nothing to add to the  conversation. Instead, she resumed picking grass out of her tail, the long, thick white fur making it all to easy for the green grass blades to get caught in it. She pushed herself to her feet, grabbing Renegade and storing it away on her back as she followed Aurelia and Saffron.

“Semblance usage won’t matter to me. Weapons... we can use them, then I’ll be able to show you how useful Renegade actually is. Aura? Why not fight ‘til it’s gone? In a real fight Grimm aren’t gonna stop just because your aura ran out, we should be able to fight even without it.” She spoke without looking up, have continued to groom herself while walking. Even if the two girls decided on a limit for how low aura should drop, Azure knew she wouldn’t listen to it. She had to be able to keep going without aura, she had to prove that she could fight without it. She knew was being ridiculous, going into a match against a third year who without a doubt had had far better combat training that Azure ever did, but Azure couldn’t help herself, she needed to prove that she could do this, that she actually belonged here at Beacon. She knew she had given off all the signs of not deserving to be a part of the prestigious school: the informalities, the recklessness, slave to her emotions, her lack of uniform or of caring. And Aurelia, flawless, golden, looking like the perfect student, like she belonged nowhere else but where she was. And Azure felt the need to prove that she, too, deserved to stand where the golden girl stood.

“Of course I’m up for this, why wouldn’t I be? What makes you think I'm not prepared? It’s not like it will be that hard,” she flashed a grin at Saffron, wanting to convince her she was capable of taking on the far more talented student. She hated that Saffron seemed to doubt her combat abilities. Surely, if she had made it to Beacon, that meant she was at least capable of something. Now she just had to show everyone that she was.

Maybe, going into a match, any other huntress in training would be planning, weighing the abilities of her opponent with her own, trying to determine the best course of action. Azure wasn’t, though; she never was. Her plan was to not have a plan, as always.
1st Year Beacon Student - Team CASA: Azure Blair

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Re: opening act [Open]
« Reply #29 on: November 04, 2018, 04:19:54 AM »
”Igno—"” Aurelia bit down on her tongue in an effort to keep from snapping at Saffron.  She has to take a deep breath, but she ultimately retains her composure.  Still, being called ignorant and petty, in the same sentence no less, did not sit well with the horse faunus.  Those were terms she would use to describe would-be terrorists that try to cow innocent people with bomb threats.  If Aurelia were to accept that comment lying down, she’d essentially be admitting she’s no better than the common criminals she’s been denouncing. 

She’ll dismiss petty insults for what they are, but she’ll be damned if she’s held in the same regard as terrorists.  ”If you honestly think I’d outright ignore a serious threat against innocent lives in order to merely ‘prove a point’, then it’s clear you haven’t listened to a single word I’ve said,” she begins, her voice just barely betraying a hint of anger.  ”The goal isn’t to send a message to those who sent the threats, it’s to prove to others who might try similar methods that it won’t work.  It’s to inspire others to outwardly denounce such behavior.  It’s to make sure it doesn’t happen to someone else.”

”Furthermore, this notion that I would recklessly endanger the public is a blatant falsehood.  There are protocols to handling such a situation.  Receiving a threat—of any kind—“ Aurelia glances at Azure, ”is enough evidence to convince law enforcement that you have reason to believe your life and the lives of others are in danger.  Even from the most cynical of viewpoints, the potential cost of property damage from a bomb going off in a public venue is more than enough reason to provide security.  There would be checkpoints, evacuation plans, drills, I would do everything in my power to make sure not a single hair would be harmed,” Aurelia’s eyes, voice, everything about her practically screamed of a deep-rooted resolve as she finishes, even if it is still tinged with a small amount of anger.  She might be iron-fisted, she might even be tyrannical from a certain point of view.  But to insinuate she isn’t trying to save as many lives as possible, both in the present and the future, is disingenuous.

Still, she does have to concede one point.  She takes another deep breath and deflates slightly, and her voice loses the bit of fury it held up until now as she says, ”However, if local authorities deemed it unsafe to continue, then so be it.  Who am I to argue with a government on how to best protect its citizens?  Even if I would disagree with their philosophy, it is the right of law enforcement to decide how to handle these situations.”

Unfortunately, it appeared Azure, at least from Aurelia’s perspective, simply wished to continue bickering for bickering’s sake.  Her casual tone and her dismissal of history in general irritated the knight, and the fact the wolf faunus was attempting to refute Aurelia’s position based solely on conjecture earns a slightly exasperated sigh.  ”Unfortunately for you, I have no current desire to tutor you.  Just know if you don’t learn from History, you’ll have to learn from Experience.  I can assure you his lessons are far stricter,” she said.

This argument is…starting to get under her skin.  Her poker face holds, though.  She’s been through worse, had viler comments hurled her way.  Technically speaking, this discussion was still somewhat civil, despite Azure’s attempted threat display.  The first-year seemed to recognize her outburst was out of line, at the very least.  Still, the discussion of horsemanship is a desperately welcomed relief from the argument.

”As much as I would have liked to continue participating, my duties and studies left me with little time to compete.  Even now, I have less than adequate time to tend to a horse’s needs.  Though, when I go home to my birth-family, I make sure to spend as much time as possible with my Morgan horse.  She’s getting up there in years, though, she’ll be nineteen in a few weeks.  And if your horse was truly a Destrier, then I can imagine what kind of life she may have led.  I’m happy to hear her final years were in comfort,” the horse faunus prattles as the trio walk.  Saffron might want to be careful: Aurelia can and will talk her ear off about equines.  She’s very enthusiastic about the subject.

She’s much less enthusiastic about Azure’s terms for sparring, however.  As it stood, it would essentially be an unrestricted practice match.  In other words, a no-holds-barred beatdown.  Azure clearly has no idea what she’s getting into.  Even without her semblance, Aurelia holds a clear advantage in both mental strength and physical defense, based on casual observation.  There’s an obvious experience gap, too.  A two-year difference in combat training is massive, and while Aurelia knows a talented and prepared first-year can take down an unwitting senior, she’s fairly certain this is not one of those cases. 

But with Noble Steed?  The few possible advantages Azure may have held go out the window.  The added horse power and size would let Aurelia overpower Azure easily, and the cavalier seriously doubts the rock star could outrun a horse running at 40mph.  This wouldn’t be a fair fight.  It’s doubtful it would even be a fight.  Based on what Aurelia’s seen, it would be an accomplishment if her aura fell below 90%.

Still, Aurelia did say any terms were fine.  She also did just say that Azure would have to learn from experience, albeit in a slightly different context.  Although, even this might be a bit overboard.  ”Denied, I won’t open myself to accusations of bullying.  If you truly wish for a practice match with no limitations, then I would at least suggest the cut-off point be 15%.  Those would be in line with Vytal Festival Tournament rules.  I would also recommend we head for an outdoor practice area, they tend to have more room.  Is that alright?” she ultimately responded.  Aurelia will leave it up to Saffron to talk some sense into the first-year.  It’s become quite evident she won’t listen to Aurelia. 
« Last Edit: November 05, 2018, 12:10:11 AM by ReaperJoe »
Smokey Emberstone Beacon 1st Year and the Immovable Gunslinger of Team DASE "I've got more than enough firepower to beat you" "You've only got one bullet!" "Like I said, more than enough"

Aurelia Lumen Beacon 3rd year and the Warhorse of Team (TBD)  "Lay down your weapons, lest you wish to taste my steel!"

Wabul "Toast" Paka Shade 1st year and the Acrobatic Swashbuckler of Team (TBD)  "Hey, I'm gonna go jump off a bridge, who's with me?"

Lucas Meridiem Beacon 1st year and the Hermit of Team CLVS  "What's so great about 'bittersweet'?"

Clara Meridiem Beacon 1st year and the Blast Magician of Team (TBD) "No one likes just plain ol' bitter"

August Flare Beacon 1st year and the would-be ruler of the world "Join me, and witness the Brightest Future!"

Hexcodes:
515151
FFD700
E55812
CCE9AE
Cyan
FFA400