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Default Location for Weather Girls
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The Chrysanthemum is a part of 
Weather Girls.
2 Characters Here
Elise von Hresvelg [625] "Hide away from the light, the rain is the only refuge."
Winter Matsuri [625] As gentle as the falling snow.
Start Character Here »
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❝I put my arms around myself and I'm unbreakable.❞
【ɗιαƖσgυє cσƖσя:#BDA0CB ♙ тнσυgнт cσƖσя #F7B3DA】
|| Dear Winter || AJR ||
【ɗιαƖσgυє cσƖσя:#BDA0CB ♙ тнσυgнт cσƖσя #F7B3DA】
|| Dear Winter || AJR ||
Winter sat on the bed, fidgeting with her necklace while Elise showered. "Winter, can we talk for a minute?" Oliver asked, knocking on the door. "Yeah, sure," she slid off of the bed, following him outside of the room and down the hall. "What's wrong?" She asked, noticing the expression on his face. "The Chrysanthemum isn't doing as well as we'd like to pretend it is." He said, leaning against the wall. "The moment you and Elise left, things started going downhill." He opened up the door beside him, "this is my archive room, I've been keeping track of everything that's happened since then, for the day that I hoped you would come back." There were screens full of footage playing different news clips, holo magazine pieces, and photographs. "Like it or not, you sort of become the face that everyone came to know as their protector. Winter, the one that would keep the Chrysanthemum safe with her awesome power. Elise, with her brains, Oliver with his influence, Ezra with his overwhelming destructive power... etc, etc."
Winter crossed her arms, "Are you saying that it's my fault the Chrysanthemum isn't doing well?" She asked, cocking a hip. "No, I'm saying we could do much better if you would... make an appearance. Just a short one, show everyone you're okay. I think it would give them hope that their protector is back, we don't have to mention you're an Heir." Winter shook her head, "I can't do that. I'm not back Oliver." Her hands balled into fists. Of course, she should have known they would do something like this. They didn't care about her, they were just like everyone else. He placed a hand on her shoulder. "You've always been in the public eye, why is this any different?" A clip playing on loop caught her eye behind him. She pushed past him, watching it. "What is this? Why do you have this?" Winter asked, her hands shaking.
"They were recovered from your farm, Serenity brought a bunch of old holo taps and photos back." It was a video that Winter had burned into her memory of the woman who had given birth to her. She had watched it so often that her Grandmother had told her she had burned through the protective layer on the holo film. "Who else has seen this?" She asked, her voice quiet. "Just about everyone, did you forget your entire life is basically on public record? Do you know how many hits Winter Matsuri has on the web archives?" This was different, this was private. Why did they have this? "I'm not making an appearance," he stood in front of the door, "please, just consider it. Think of how happy everyone would-"
"What about me!" She yelled, accidentally shaking the room. "Winter-"
"What about my happiness? What about what I want! Does that not matter! I should have known you were just like them. You don't care about me, just about what I can do." He rushed towards her, "that's not true-" Oliver encountered a wall of sound, unable to move. "I'm leaving tomorrow with Elise, I don't want to meet your President." She released him, Oliver falling to the ground. Winter stepped over him, heading to the room where Elise had just finished showering. "Yeah, I'm gonna take a turn." She stripped off her clothes, letting the hot water run over her. She was still seething, her entire body shaking with rage. The water began to vibrate around her before it stopped falling altogether.
Control it, she needed to control it. She recalled Yuuki's words.
You're an Heir now, humans are made of things like bones that will break like glass. Your power is too strong for their world. You have to control it, or you might accidentally destroy them.
She breathed in and out, the water falling once more. It was a mistake to come to earth. Pain struck through her chest, recalling how happy she had been earlier to see everyone. Were they all just planning to use her for their gain? Winter shook her head. No, Ezra and Serenity hadn't... they had come to find Winter when her body had disappeared, they were worried about her. She emerged from the shower and wrapped herself in a towel. Elise was laying on the bed, waiting for her. "I don't know if I want to come back to earth anyway," Winter mumbled. "What's so great about earth anyway?" She took off the necklace Oliver had given her, placing it on the mantle.
If she brought her body back to the Boundary, she would never be able to return to earth. Maybe that was what Winter wanted. She turned over in bed, falling into a fitful sleep.
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❝A second return, but what for? And for whom was I brought back?❞
【ɗιαƖσgυє cσƖσя:#0C94CC ♙ тнσυgнт cσƖσя #CC0C2E】
|| Azalea|| Nano.ripe ||
【ɗιαƖσgυє cσƖσя:#0C94CC ♙ тнσυgнт cσƖσя #CC0C2E】
|| Azalea|| Nano.ripe ||
It was odd but Elise did not have the time to come to much of a conclusion about it. Still, why was there such a sudden change? Elise really had no idea. Winter was once so happy to be here, to be back with her adopted family, but as she went to bed last night she said something disturbing. Something about if Earth was even worth coming back to at all. Did something happen? The black eagle waited until Winter fell asleep and crept out the bed towards the hall. Oliver looked distressed, slumped against the wall, nothing like the happy and casual Oliver she had grown used to over the past two days. There was almost a look of frustration, of defeat in his eyes. What happened? Had there been an argument? What about?
Questions plagued her mind even as she awoke the next morning, feeling the normal dizzy light-headedness that had been bothering her the last time she neared her limit for her soul's energy. Soon she would have to go back but with luck the black eagle would stretch her time out for as long as possible. At least until she was able to solve the problem that had arisen. Even if they could not come back, Elise wanted the wedding to go as smoothly as could be. That could only work if relations were amicable between Winter and the others. Clearly something happened, why else would the music note necklace be placed on the mantle like this? She sighed a little, conjured another white cloak for herself, and ethen exited the room. Oliver was already sitting at the breakfast table, looking more impeccable than usual. There was a drink, two breakfasts, and a holo-projected image of some sort of design.
"Good morning. What is this?" She gestured to the holo projection. It looked almost like a design for something. "Claude sent this to me this morning. He finished the design for your cloak. What do you think?" It was white, but the gold was removed for an almost navy blue that lined the garment. There was some sort of intricate design near the bottom hem, and on the back was the typical black wings, spreading out open, in that same dark navy hue. "I believe I like it." She did not know much about fashion but trusted Claude knew what he was doing. "If I cannot see him before tonight, thank him for me." Elise conjured a new cloak according to Claude's design, out of more mist, wrapping around her body. It fit nicely, flaying out by the bottom. "Looks good." Oliver nodded in approval. "I'll let him know." Claude worked all night on this, Elise knew. He must have been excited to work for her again.
Another question needed to be asked then. Did this have something to do with the fight with Winter? "So when are we to meet the President? What should I say?" Oliver stiffened slightly and shook his head. "Actually, I was going to have Carter take you backstage to watch one of his photoshoots today. There's a sudden meeting, the President no longer has time to meet you or Winter." He was lying, Elise saw how he clenched his hand, it was a tell that only Elise noticed. The President did not have a meeting. But why would he lie about that? She sat down, not really wanting to contest. "You should eat before your breakfast becomes cold." Oliver nodded but did not move towards his fork. Elise drank her juice, wishing it did not taste like acid.
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❝I put my arms around myself and I'm unbreakable.❞
【ɗιαƖσgυє cσƖσя:#BDA0CB ♙ тнσυgнт cσƖσя #F7B3DA】
|| Dear Winter || AJR ||
【ɗιαƖσgυє cσƖσя:#BDA0CB ♙ тнσυgнт cσƖσя #F7B3DA】
|| Dear Winter || AJR ||
"Grandma!" Winter called, shivering. "Grandpa!" She screamed, practically shrieking. She limped across the smoking concert venue, blood dripping from her forehead and into her eye. The theater had exploded, she had been flung out of her seat and several rows away. "Grandma!" Winter limped passed a body, crushed by fallen debris. "Grandpa!" Where were there? Tears pricked her eyes. "Winter," someone whispered. She turned around, her eyes widening. "Mary," Winter trembled. She took a step back, "Winter, help me." Her fingers reached out, Winter tried to pull her out from underneath a slab of concrete. "It's okay Mary, I'm gonna get you out." She slipped on blood, unsteady on her legs. "Don't worry, help is here." Mary suddenly went limp, Winter screaming for help.
But it didn't come. "Grandpa!" Winter screamed, limping away. She had to keep walking, but her legs had gone numb. There was shrapnel sticking out of her left leg, it was twisted at an odd angle, dragging as she walked. "Grandma! Grandpa!" Winter broke down, her emotions becoming too much. She was freezing, the cold overwhelming. Gun fire went off somewhere, Winter was bleeding out. "I don't want to die," she whispered. She didn't want to go the same way Mary did. She didn't want to die. "No!" A blizzard suddenly broke out, snow covering the stadium. "I don't want to die! I don't want to die!" She screamed, tiny, broken, and terrified. Pain stung her shoulder, Winter crying out in pain as she was struck.
"Target in sight," a voice buzzed as Winter began to fade. "Target is down, we're moving out to complete capture."
Winter awoke feeling numb. It had been a while since she had last had that nightmare, the feeling of helplessness overwhelming. She pulled off the blankets, Elise already gone. Winter stumbled into the bathroom, splashing water on her face to try and bring herself back. She changed into the clothing Oliver had no doubt had Erica go and buy. She brushed her hair slowly, no doubt late to breakfast. Yup, Elise and Oliver were already there. "Morning," Winter murmured, taking a seat. "I heard something about Carter?" She asked, picking at her plate, not exactly hungry. "Yeah, he's gonna take you backstage today on one of his photoshoots," it was almost a relief to hear that. "Sorry Elise, I know you wanted to meet the President."
"Winter, about last night-" Oliver started, but she held up a hand. "It doesn't matter, you've made your thoughts perfectly clear." She took a bite of her eggs, not wanting to talk about it anymore. "I think I'm gonna go to Serenity's tonight." It would be better there, she thought. Serenity she could trust. "Oh Elise, your new clothes look great," Winter smiled. There came a knock from the front door, Oliver rising to go and get it. It was Carter of course, who joined them at the dining room table and snatched a piece of toast from the plate in the center. "Morning!" He said, all dressed up.
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❝A second return, but what for? And for whom was I brought back?❞
【ɗιαƖσgυє cσƖσя:#0C94CC ♙ тнσυgнт cσƖσя #CC0C2E】
|| Azalea|| Nano.ripe ||
【ɗιαƖσgυє cσƖσя:#0C94CC ♙ тнσυgнт cσƖσя #CC0C2E】
|| Azalea|| Nano.ripe ||
Today was going to be like any other. It was evident that there was something going on that caused Oliver to chang their plans. Was Winter misunderstanding something? Was Oliver doing something untoward? Elise would have to find out somehow, but clearly she was going to get a different story no matter who she asked. "It is okay. The President cannot help being busy." Elise said calmly as Winter gave her an apology. Oliver tried to ask about last night, but Elise could gather the information later. With the intention to stay at Serenity's tonight clear, and as Elise flaunted the new mist cloak Claude had designed for her, Carter arrived, flashy grin, and limo behind him. "Mister Grayson, please!" A tall woman with glasses and sleek brown hair pestered him. "You can't do this! What if the reporters or fans find you here? Stay in the vehicle while I gather your friends!"
Carter mostly ignored her and grabbed toast, seating himself down. "If they find me, then I'll give them a smile a wink and they'll take picture and want me even more." He said with cheeky confidence, earning a sigh of frustration from his agent. "Good morning. I am glad I do not have to be in the public's eye again." She had had more than a lifetime's worth of media attention already, first as an actress, then as a Vassal. "I know, right?" Carter seemed very confident like this, however. "The ladies just can't get enough of me." Oliver made a face, sighing. "Well, you should get going. It was good seeing you, Carter." The model raised en eyebrow, definitely realizing something was off. Like Elise, he remained quiet and beckoned to Winter and Elise. "Come on! It's going to be great! Don't worry, just follow Bianca and she'll keep you two safe from view." Bianca, his agent, looked as if this job was more stressful than the apocalypse itself. "Don't worry, you two." For once there was a normal person who did not seem impressed by the heroes of the war. "Everyone will be too busy looking as Carter flirst with them to notice you."
The limo was large and comfortable, reminding the black eagle of driving around with her family as a little girl before she became a shut-in. The studio itself was even larger. Elise remembered this building, she'd taken a few pictures here before. "Mister Grayson, remember to behave." Bianca chastised him while he was happily showing off collection cards of characters Elise vaguely remembered from a show but did not know the names of. "Yes, yes. Don't worry, Bi, Dorian likes me." Bianca took them to the back entrance, where the public could not access. The door opened, the back door to Invale Studios open for them. Security men watched as they entered. Bianca gave Elise and Winter suit coats to wear. "Wear these, you two can be my assistants." This way their identities could be protected. Was it out of kindness, or did Carter not want the spotlight taken off of him?
"Makes yourselves comfortable." Bianca helped the two find a place to seat in the back stage while makeup artists worked their magic on Carter. "Tell us about that battle again, the one with the other Vassal1" Carter flashed a grin as his hair was being fixed over again. "Well, it was in the middle of the Apocalypse, and Oliver told me: Carter, you have to protect the bridge. Don't let the Doctor's soldiers through. I thought, well that's just great. We'll protect this position and make sure the Doctor's soldiers couldn't get to us. I sat back, relaxed with my men, telling jokes, passing the time while Oliver did battle on the frontlines." He took a pause, as if for dramatic effect. His voice friendly and animadted, continued the story. "Then I saw familiar hair - an old friend, working for the enemy. Mercedes's soldiers was approaching. I remembered Elise's words: The soldiers understimate you. Use that to your advantage. So I thought-"
Elise already knew this story of course, this was while she and Winter were still recovering from nearly dying after defeating Merlin, and were still to injured to do anything while the Slithers had custody of them. "I'm really jealous." Another assistant shook her head as she looked at Winter and Elise. "You two get to work with Carter Grayson! I'm stuck with Anabelle Pierce, and she's such a snob. She yells at me all the time." The black eagle looked at her, wondering if the wig Bianca gave her was hiding her horns. "Carter is very arrogant." She said with an amused smile. "Well, he deserves it! He's one of the heroes that saved us all! You know what Anabelle Pierce did? She hid in the President's bunker and ordered the staff to wait on her arm and leg!"
Once Carter was dolled up for the photoshoot he headed out. Bianca turned her head towards Winter and Elise, indicating that they join him to the shooting stage. A very tall, older woman had a look of extravagance. After taking a few shots and poses, the woman, Dorian, began to speak. "The audience wants to know. You won't mind giving a little bit of an interview, would you?" Carter smiled, flashing his baby blues. "Oh, Dorian, you know I love to talk. What about?" Dorian pulled out her holo then. "I think it's about time. The wound doesn't hurt anymore, right? Do you think you can tell us about Winter and Elise? Give us the inside scoop."
Carter blinked, but his smile never fell. Was he bothered by it? He would never show it, not in front of his boss. "Aww, anything for you. I'd be happy to! Ask away!" There was a surprising amount of questions. Most likely this was going to go on his page on the Invale website featuring Carter, where subscribers would get to watch in live 3d, as if they were there in person. Another question was asked this time. "You hinted before that you were close to Winter in some way. Just how close? Some of your fans are wondering if, just maybe, you were in love with her." Carter blinked again, then smiled gently at the camera. "Winter was this tiny little thing. Heh, you wouldn't believe it. I loved her, actually. I wanted to protect her she was so small. But you wouldn't believe how much strength there was in her eyes." His gaze was full of calm longing.
"A boy like me? I'd never be able to protect her. She'd protect herself a thousand times over, no matter who we fought." An almost vulnerable look was on his face as Elise glanced towards Winter, guaging her reaction. "But more than anything, more than love, what I feel is respect. I respect the hell out of her as a friend, and as a fellow comrade." The next queston seemed to be one about Elise herself. "Just like you, Elise was a celebrity. Do you think she would be looking over you, now that you're living in the spotlight?" This time Carter laughed, as if he found something funny. "Looking over me? You mean looking down on me! El was always looking down on everyone, judging everyone. It was really hard to try and get along with her."
Judging people. Elise had done it all her life. Was it really so bad? "He loves the attention." She murmured and earned a chuckle from Bianca as they listened in. He was a natural for the stage. "But by judging us she was telling us to do better. To be stronger. Smarter. Because Elise knew. If we wanted to save the world - we needed to be as strong as we could. We needed to be stronger even than the Doctor's soldiers." He was quiet then. "If she's looking over me, I hope she has front row seats."
Once it was all over and Carter bade farewell to Dorian he looked almost exhausted as fell onto his seat in the limo. "Sorry, I know that might not have been very fun. Oliver told me to take you two, for some reason." He looked at them, like a deflated battery. "Did something happen? He wouldn't normally make a request like this." Elise pulled her wig off and shrugged. "It is between Winter and Oliver, if she wishes to speak about it." She shook her head. "It was not boring. I almos miss it, actually." This was a glimpse at what she had lost, a life she could have had. That could have been her. She would never stand on the stage again.
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❝I put my arms around myself and I'm unbreakable.❞
【ɗιαƖσgυє cσƖσя:#BDA0CB ♙ тнσυgнт cσƖσя #F7B3DA】
|| Dear Winter || AJR ||
【ɗιαƖσgυє cσƖσя:#BDA0CB ♙ тнσυgнт cσƖσя #F7B3DA】
|| Dear Winter || AJR ||
Winter knew that Carter was arrogant, but she had never seen him act like this before. She watched, rather enthused, as he waved at Bianca, his agent, without a care in the world. Winter almost felt as though she had to apologize for him. The closest she had ever been to being famous was playing at the Opal, or maybe that time she stood public trial. She was not like Elise or Carter, standing in a spotlight that shone so brightly, it blinded everyone else. "That's not how I remembered that going," she murmured as Carter retold a tale in which he seemed like the hero and Mercy the villain. Poor Mercedes was also getting painted in a bad light. She was just... misunderstood, Winter thought. She wished she had attempted to become a better friend, but Mercedes had pushed them all away. Still, she had Mercy to thank for the fact that her body was still here today.
Who was Annabelle Pierce? Winter wasn't sure, but the girl styling Carter's hair kept bringing her up. Winter side-eyed a cart full of candy, wondering if anyone would notice if she took a piece. "Help yourself," Bianca insisted. She had hardly eaten breakfast and this looked far more enticing. "Thank you," she tried to show some restraint by only picking a few pieces. Even though Winter knew Elise was going to deny it, she offered her some as well. They followed Bianca to the shooting stage, where Carter was posed, sometimes changing outfits in between photos. Winter watched, sucking on a sour straw and glancing at Elise curiously. She could see the longing in her eyes and Winter was suddenly struck with guilt. This could have been her life, too, if Winter had not stolen it from her.
They went from a photoshoot to a sound-stage. Carter was being interviewed about his thoughts on certain things. She was hardly listening until her name was brought up. She had known, of course, about Carter's love for her. It had been obvious, considering the many times he had asked her on dates and she had denied it. Winter had just never seen Carter in a romantic light. Oliver too. It seemed her soul mate had been destined for her on another plane. What if she had never gone to the Boundary? Would she have ended up with one of them? Or would she be with someone else? Winter didn't know. She felt Elise's gaze on her. Winter hugged her arms around herself. There was no use in wondering, as what if's led to nothing. Winter did not regret her engagement to Zed, she loved him with all her heart.
Eventually, the interview was over. They gathered back into the limo, it was Winter's first time in one. It was roomy and there was a screen playing past interviews of Carter's. Did he seriously watch those? Winter wondered. "It was fun, I think," she still had one sour straw left from the candy table. "We fought last night," Winter admitted, her hands balling into fists. "He wanted me to do an interview, live, so that people could see that I'm okay and still around to boost the moral of those in the Chrysanthemum." She leaned back in her seat, "I didn't want to do it and we fought over it." She wasn't going to tell them about the video, although no doubt Carter had seen it already. That stuff was supposed to be private, those were her's.
She had nothing left of her Mother. When Winter had been taken by the Doctor, all she had, had to remember her Mother by was those white leather gloves. Both the gloves and her cane were gone, not that she could return with them to Olympia.
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❝A second return, but what for? And for whom was I brought back?❞
【ɗιαƖσgυє cσƖσя:#0C94CC ♙ тнσυgнт cσƖσя #CC0C2E】
|| Azalea|| Nano.ripe ||
【ɗιαƖσgυє cσƖσя:#0C94CC ♙ тнσυgнт cσƖσя #CC0C2E】
|| Azalea|| Nano.ripe ||
Her head was spinning. How much longer did she have? What more time did she have here? Elise did not know, but as Carter finished the interview and they huddled back into the limo, saying farewell to the studio and watching Carter flirt his way away from all the girls pining for him, they finally had some peace and quiet. Elise's fingers felt around the candy wrapped up in the pocket of her cloak, wondering what to do with it. She accepted the offer from Winter, but it was not as if she could eat it. She held onto it for now, perhaps almost a memento. Was it stupid, foolish sentimenality? Was it meaningless emotion? She shook her head, trying to get the longing out of her heart. This path was long gone, ever since that day she met Hades out on the fields outside of Olympia.
Winter was telling them about her and Oliver's fight. Carter seemed confused, looking Winter in the eye as if wondering why things went poorly when just hours before that moment, things were going well for everyone involved. "That dumb idiot." Carter laughed, flashing a reassuring smile, pearly whites gleaming at Winter. It was clear he had gotten over his feelings more easily now that Winter was finally back. He did not love her the way a man did anymore - but rather as a fellow companion and friend. "I know Oliver, he didn't mean it like that. He's still really bad with words, so he probably worded things harsher than he intended." He gave Winter a squeeze on the shoulder. "Just stay mad, he'll apologize eventually. Teach him how to say things more delicately to cute ladies like yourself."
Oliver wanted Winter to make a speech to make conditions in the Chrysanthemum better, more stable, more livable. It made sense. Elise could understand the calculus at play here. "I do not see the problem with making a demonstration." She said quietly, peering at Winter. "Oliver is responsible, along with the President, with the well-being of the citizens. While the city is rebuilt, the hearts and minds of those he rules over are still damaged, traumatized." She paused, trying to find the best way to say what she meant, fighting against the dizzyiness worsening in her head. "...How many lost families? Friends? Livelihoods? How many need just a little more hope to continue fighting to thrive?" This was not Elise's problem, of course, and whatever Winter chose she was okay with it. "Oliver no doubt considered this a chance to provide hope to the hopeless. And he likely considered the cost to you - just a simple speech - to be a small enough price to pay for the well being of thousands."
Really, Oliver was just employing simple math to the equation. "Wait, you sound like it's selfish to refuse." Carter interrupted quickly, turning his gaze onto her now. "This is Winter's choice, she doesn't owe anything to anyone here." Elise nodded, agreeing. "I am aware. I am simply saying that Oliver wants to improve the lives of many, while Winter is more focused on her own needs here." She smiled then, approving. "I can agree, personally. We paid a heavy enough price to save them. They need to learn how to stand on their own feet." Carter narrowed his eyes, sighing. "Now that sounds like what the old President would say." He saw the records of course, of his interactions with Winter. "I'll sacrifice one innocent girl." Carter recited the lines the old President gave. "And her sacrifice will help teach the rest of my people how to be strong." A look of disgust was on his face. "I really hope Oliver doesn't go that way."
Elise doubted that Oliver would. He hated the old President as much as Elise did, and had similar reasons for doing so. "That is unlikely." She began to explain, trying to control the nausea. "It is inaccurate to compare years of brainwashing and control to asking someone to give a speech."
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❝I put my arms around myself and I'm unbreakable.❞
【ɗιαƖσgυє cσƖσя:#BDA0CB ♙ тнσυgнт cσƖσя #F7B3DA】
|| Dear Winter || AJR ||
【ɗιαƖσgυє cσƖσя:#BDA0CB ♙ тнσυgнт cσƖσя #F7B3DA】
|| Dear Winter || AJR ||
Carter laughed, was Winter over thinking things? Was it really that simple? "I'm not cute," Winter huffed, crossing her arms. Sure, she was small, but that didn't immediately make her cute! She was eighteen now, officially an adult. She was no longer cute. "Elise, tell Carter he's an idiot," she crossed her arms while Carter laughed. In the end, despite acting upset, Winter laughed as well. Maybe it was a good thing she had finally told them what was on her mind, as her heart no longer weighed heavily in her chest. She ate her final sour stick, leaning back against the heated cushions of the limo. There was mood lighting playing around them. Bianca, Carter's agent, watched them with interest. Winter was used to being watched this was of course, so it didn't bother her.
Elise tried to explain it from Oliver's perspective, saying that she understood where he was coming from. Hearing Elise say it like that, Winter felt selfish for denying his request. "I'll think on it," she said after hearing Elise's piece. Elise, of course, was much more eloquent and refined, getting the point Oliver had been trying to make across rather easily. "Like you said, it's just one speech and I'm going back to Olympia anyway." It wasn't as though Winter was going to be forced to spend time answering questions or forced to do things for them anymore. That's right, she was free. She could do whatever she wanted. "It's too bad you have to go back so soon Elise," Winter murmured. "I would have liked for you to be there too," was Elise doing alright? No doubt she was nearing her limit.
Carter brought up the former President's speech, the one he had given Winter a million times. The good of the many outweighed the benefit of the few. Or in that case, the benefit of Winter. They were words she had tried her hardest to forget, but it seemed like she would never be allowed to. Winter leaned back against the seat, closing her eyes as she felt suddenly nauseous. "Are you alright?" Bianca asked, afraid to reach out. Winter nodded, "Yeah, I just skipped breakfast." Bianca reached into a mini fridge, pulling out a ginger soda. "Try this, it should help." She handed it to Winter, who took a sip. It was bitter, but had undertones of sweetness. "Thanks," she sipped it slowly while Elise and Carter argued.
"Oh, where are we?" Winter asked, realizing that they were not returning to Oliver's house. "We're going out for dinner, my treat." Carter grinned, "I thought we might want to make a detour first." He pushed the door open once the limo had stopped, "a little surprise." He led the way, Winter looking up. "They rebuilt it," the Opal. It glistened in the winter light, snow decorating the circular roof. "Yeah, there's someone here to greet us." He led them to the door, opening it up. Winter took off her winter coat, the interior of the building warm. "There you are Carter, you're lat-" Timothy Green stopped speaking halfway through while Winter was wiping her boots on the carpet. "Winter?" He rushed forward, almost afraid to touch her. "And Elise too! I thought you were dead. Both of you, oh gosh. Carter, why didn't you tell me!"
"Because I knew you would react like this," he nudged Timothy. "Anyway, want to give us a tour?"
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❝A second return, but what for? And for whom was I brought back?❞
【ɗιαƖσgυє cσƖσя:#0C94CC ♙ тнσυgнт cσƖσя #CC0C2E】
|| Azalea|| Nano.ripe ||
【ɗιαƖσgυє cσƖσя:#0C94CC ♙ тнσυgнт cσƖσя #CC0C2E】
|| Azalea|| Nano.ripe ||
Carter was an idiot. "Winter, I believe he is aware of that fact." He was laughing now, despite how tired he was, he was still energetic and animated. It was odd - Elise never considered someone like Carter worthy of friendship before. He was always weak, and a bit stupid. Someone with no potential to grow the way Winter had, or the talent to be strong. But here he was, proving her wrong on both counts. "Don't I know it? But I'm a cute idiot, so the girls can't get enough of me." He drank his juice, lounging as Bianca drove through the streets, the Chrysanthemum lively and alive only two years after the apocalypse. Winter talked about her issues and Elise and Carter both said their pieces. It seemed Winter was going to give this more thought then.
With that settled, their next destination was made. A beautiful building with a dome-like roof. Anyone who lived in the Chrysanthemum knew what this was. "They're selling recordings of your past performances. It sells like hotcakes." Carter grinned, showing them the ads on his holo, projected onto the leathery seats of the limosine. "Everyone wants a piece of the Winter before she was a Vassal. Do you want to argue your rights?" Elise felt a little bit annoyed. Was that not a legal violation of sorts? "We can just threaten them, it would be easier." Her ruby eyes gleamed at the idea of putting fear into someone's soul again, something she missed doing since becoming a Servant. "No one would fight back against an Heir." Which she was not, but she could certainly act as if she was.
Timothy, one of the noble orphans, and the only one around Elise's age left alive other than Claude. The others were younger, but even they were trying their best to survive with their fortunes and inheritances. Timothy Green was leaner now, but still a little bit on the shorter side. He never was one to care much for being fancy like a noble - he dressed and acted like any normal commoner. Elise did not respect him, but he still survived. He even helped them in the final battle, turning off the cannons at the Government Building. "Hello." Elise said simply, her opinion still mixed on the smiling boy. Man. "Sure! I was about to - but this is way more important! Just let me tell the manager that I'm suddenly a little busy, so I can't attend practice..."
The Opal. An idea was running through Elise's mind then. She turned to Winter when Timothy began walking and showing them all the new additions and rebuild hallways and rooms. "If Oliver wishes to give hope, what better opportunity is there before dinner?" A sly little smile was on the black eagle's face. "What if you played music so fantastic, it could only be music made by you? Would that not be better than any speech?" Bianca sighed, looking upset. "But then the streets would flood as people rush here to try and see you." She objected to that idea, but Carter smiled sweetly. "But isn't that where the fun of life is? That's why you're here, Bi, you're an expert at escaping crowds!" Bianca went silent but it was clear she was suffering greatly already.
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❝I put my arms around myself and I'm unbreakable.❞
【ɗιαƖσgυє cσƖσя:#BDA0CB ♙ тнσυgнт cσƖσя #F7B3DA】
|| Dear Winter || AJR ||
【ɗιαƖσgυє cσƖσя:#BDA0CB ♙ тнσυgнт cσƖσя #F7B3DA】
|| Dear Winter || AJR ||
It was just how she remembered it, only, the inside smelled like new paint and had brand new furniture. Otherwise, it looked the same. Timothy stumbled over himself, taking one of Winter's hands in greeting. "It's nice to see you alive, Timothy." She could recall a time when Timothy was not a nice person. They had often competed against each other on stage, Timothy always losing to Winter. There had been a few times where it was close, but he could never beat her. It wasn't his fault of course, music was simply Winter's only escape from her life. She had thrown herself into it, but the music was never merciful and she had learned to play complicated pieces by ear when she was very small. Part of her success was her ability to recreate music that she had previously heard from memory.
"It doesn't matter if they buy it or not," Winter admitted. "The contests were publicly recorded and broadcast, even if they weren't buying them, they would probably torrent it." Elise's answer was to immediately threaten them. Despite not being an Heir, Elise seemed fine with telling everyone that she was in order to hold it against them. She really was a complicated beast, wasn't she? "It's not like I mind anyhow, music is a public service." She waved the idea of threats away, "and even if it wasn't me playing, if they really wanted to, they would listen to Bach or Motzart." Musical prodigees and genuises, those were the kinds of people that Winter had looked up to.
"Is there a contest coming up?" Winter inquired of Timothy, who spoke to the manager to delay his practice. "Yeah, there's a big show for New Year's." He replied with a nod, glancing behind him as though to make sure that they were real. "So where were you all this time? You just kind of... disappeared," he trailed off, uncertain as to what to say. "The Boundary," Winter replied. "I'm an Heir now," they stopped walking as Elise came up with an idea. A performance, an original piece. "I like that idea," she smiled. No talking, just playing. Poor Biance seemed stressed before the event had even begun. Winter didn't blame her of course, the poor woman seemed to have a hard time with her job, considering Carter's temperment.
"Let me speak to the stage manager," Timothy disappeared for a minute. "I'll call Oliver," Carter whipped out his phone. "I'm going to make a few calls too," Bianace said, disappearing into the hallway with her holo. Winter turned to Elise, "Are you alright? You look pale. You don't need to go back yet, do you?" She asked, wanting to make sure that Elise was alright. It only took a few minutes for Carter and Timothy to return. Bianca was still in the wings, yelling into her holo phone. "Oliver is on his way," Carter said with a grin. "And the stage manager gave us his approval," Timothy smiled. "What instrument do you want to play? Do you need anyone to accompany you?" She glanced at Elise before making her decision. "I'll play the piano," Winter decided.
Several newstations showed up along with Oliver and the President. There were security checks they each had to go through to make sure that the perimeter was secure. "Here goes nothing," she sighed. Winter wasn't nervous, no, she was never nervous. Music was her calling, after all. "Star dress," she transformed before walking into the stage. Winter sat at the piano bench, glancing backstage at her friends before she rest her hands on the keys. She could feel the music flowing through her before she hit the first note. Winter closed her eyes, playing an original arrangement. She did not hear microphones, the clamor of reporters, or camera shutters. All she could hear was the music, the notes drifting behind her eyes.
It was a melody of revitalization. Uplifting, empowering. Tears sprung to her eyes when the realization hit her. This was Winter's final performance on earth.
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❝A second return, but what for? And for whom was I brought back?❞
【ɗιαƖσgυє cσƖσя:#0C94CC ♙ тнσυgнт cσƖσя #CC0C2E】
|| Azalea|| Nano.ripe ||
【ɗιαƖσgυє cσƖσя:#0C94CC ♙ тнσυgнт cσƖσя #CC0C2E】
|| Azalea|| Nano.ripe ||
"Stealing something when you can just buy it? Preposterous!" The concept was utterly foreign to Elise. While she was not the most law-abiding person, she had a set of rules. One was to respect money. The idea of not spending money that would cost it was very strange. It was akin to claiming something you did not earn. "Why would someone not simply buy something they covet?" Carter looked at her as if she were an alien. "Not everyone has spare money." Carter said, forcing a grin. "Not everyone's as rich as you, El." She was puzzled again. "But then they should work to have financial security so that they can then buy whatever they wish." Carter looked to Winter for help, a worried look on his face, then shook his head. "Some things rich people can never understand, so don't worry your lovely head over it."
Winter had a new plan then, the idea coming to her. Oliver and the new President were notified of course. News was coming out - Winter herself had returned to grace them all with one last concert. Bianca was in a rush to prepare emergency transport to take them out of the Opal as quickly as possible to avoid the big swarming crowds. Carter was applying the last touches of his makeup in case he needed to use his fame as a distraction. Elise tried to control her growing nausea, smiling at Winter when asked. "I am fine. I look forward to your performance." Timothy took Elise to special seating in the box at the top, where a few special guests were given seats, an aerial view of Winter's final masterpiece for Earth ears to hear. Oliver was there of course, looking very relieved. The President, a short stocky woman, looked dignified as she nodded at Elise. "This is not what I had in mind." The President said, smiling gently. "But I feel like this is more suitable than any speech would be."
Claude and Jasmine were somewhere below. Mercedes looked oddly starry-eyed as she stood at the President's side as one of the assisting bodyguards for the day. "Thanks for this. I knew this had to be your idea." Mercedes shot Elise a glare, then turned her gaze away. "This is your last day. You won't be coming back, right?" Elise nodded to confirm. She would not be returning after this. Other than to retrieve the gifts and to gather the invitees for the wedding, she had nothing left to do on Earth any longer. "We will see you at the wedding, so you can save the farewell words and instead use a see you later." Mercedes nodded, but remained silent. The music was majestic of course, awing the crowd. "She's even better than I remember." Oliver smiled, looking wistful. "Everyone who hears this will feel inspired to keep on living through rhese hard times." The President agreed, closing her eyes to listen to the melody.
As Elise waited by the escape doors that Bianca secured for Winter to come, she sighed, wondering where the day had gone. It was late, and she was still hungry for dinner. Carter and Bianca told her to wait here as they retrieved Winter, so for now she stood, wondering how long she would be standing for. To her surprise, Serenity found her. "There you are, I was looking all over for you!" She smiled brightly, coming close for a hug. Elise accepted it, but was confused. "Looking for me? What for?" Before Elise could react, Serenity put a bag over Elise's head and then tied her wrists behind her back. "To kidnap you! It's your last night... and Ezra wants to talk to you. About something you've been avoiding." Elise sighed, not struggling. This had to happen eventually. "Does Carter know? I do not want Winter to worry about losing me again." She could not see Serenity's nod. "I told him just before I found you, he thinks it's a good idea. Now come with me, be a good girl, and no one will have to get hurt!"
What kind of threat was that? "You know I could easily escape if I wanted to." Serenity's voice was almost flustered. "Hey! I just wanted to try that kind of line at least once, leave me alone! Your prince charming's waiting!"
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❝I put my arms around myself and I'm unbreakable.❞
【ɗιαƖσgυє cσƖσя:#BDA0CB ♙ тнσυgнт cσƖσя #F7B3DA】
|| Dear Winter || AJR ||
【ɗιαƖσgυє cσƖσя:#BDA0CB ♙ тнσυgнт cσƖσя #F7B3DA】
|| Dear Winter || AJR ||
It was just Winter and the music, her hands playing deftly as they flew across the keys. Her star dress shone in the spotlight, Winter not even breaking a sweat. She did not hesitate nor tremble, she moved with all of the grace of a well-oiled machine. Was her Mother watching her? Were her Grandparents proud? This was it. She was rounding to the last note. Winter opened her eyes once more, noticing the audience. The reporters stood stalk-still, as though they had been enchanted by something. She drew out the final keys, resting her hands on the piano when she finished. "My name is Winter Matsuri!" She said to the small audience. "I am the Heir of Music and this was my final performance!" She took a bow, emotion overcoming her. Her hands trembled from fatigue, her entire body exhausted from the emotional toll that had gone into it. She turned to look to Elise, her pillar of support, only to notice that she was missing from the wings.
"Come on Winter, it's time to go." Bianca said, ushering her off the stage as questions began to pepper the air like bullets. Reporters pushed their holo microphones closer, trying to get them to float near Winter as the curtains dropped. "Are you alright?" Carter asked, taking her other arm. "Fine, I'm fine." She muttered, taking the water that Timothy offered. His face was red and tear streaked. "You'll always be first place," he said as she was ushered away. "But don't forget those of us that come up behind you!" Winter turned around and offered him a smile. "You're going to be fine Timothy," she did not see him fall to his knees as his enemy, the one who had beaten him time and again with her musical prowess, disappeared from his sight.
Outside, a crowd had gathered. It was just as Elise had predicted, they had rushed the theater. "This way!" Oliver called, they ran back inside, following him to the second floor. "Wait for it," a helicopter flew overhead, a ladder unravelling. "The President first," she grabbed onto the ladder, getting pulled up. "Winter, go," Oliver nodded when the ladder came back down. "What about Elise? Where is she?" Winter asked in concern, "She went with Serenity before you finished," Carter said quickly. Winter grabbed onto the ladder, getting hauled up by the President's security. The last time she had been on a helicopter, her spine had been broken in two places. Oliver came up after her, then Carter. Poor Bianca was left behind to try and get the car. "Where are we going?" Winter asked, watching as security tried to control the crowd below. "We'll be going back to my office," The President said. "Hello Ms. Matsuri, I've waited quite a long time to meet you." She held out a hand, Winter took it, the two shaking.
The President's expression changed, becoming a bit more solemn. "Don't do that," Winter said quickly. "Do what?" The President asked, surprised. "You're about to apologize for the past President's wrongs, right?" Winter asked, crossing her arms. "It's true, I was going to. I take it you don't want to hear it?" She sat back in her seat, "There's no point in apologizing for a dead man's actions. It's in the past, besides, there isn't anything you could do to make up for it." She was already trying to move on. "Oh, I spoke to Serenity," Oliver suddenly interjected. "She doesn't think her apartment would be secure enough for you to stay there." Winter frowned, "You I haven't forgiven." Winter crossed her arms and huffed. The others laughed as Oliver looked bewildered.
They landed on top of the building the President worked in. The snow blew around them from the helicopter's blades, creating a small flurry. Inside, a woman was waiting to greet them with hot drinks. "Winter, I'm sorry!" Oliver said as she took a sip of tea. "Not forgiven," she replied, Carter laughing behind them. "Fine! I was wrong! Is that what you want to hear? You were right and I didn't think about how you might feel, I was stupid. Okay? Is that it?" Winter took a long sip, "Yes." She took a seat, "All is forgiven," she crossed her ankles, Oliver sighing as he sank into a chair, taking a cup of coffee. "You two fight like an old couple," Carter pointed out, taking a cup of coffee. "We do not!" They both yelled in unison.
"Ms. Matsuri, is there anything we can do to make you stay longer?" The President asked, wanting to get down to business. "No, I have to go back, I'm getting married soon and my fiance doesn't like humans." It was common for Olympians to have a feeling of disdain towards them. After all, they had all seen the worst of humanity. "I'm already pushing it staying two days extra." The President nodded, "It's a real shame."
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❝A second return, but what for? And for whom was I brought back?❞
【ɗιαƖσgυє cσƖσя:#0C94CC ♙ тнσυgнт cσƖσя #CC0C2E】
|| Azalea|| Nano.ripe ||
【ɗιαƖσgυє cσƖσя:#0C94CC ♙ тнσυgнт cσƖσя #CC0C2E】
|| Azalea|| Nano.ripe ||
Elise was not sure exactly what to expect when the bag was taken off of her head but it certainly was not this. A lively environment revealed itself to her, full of bustle and noise. There were many well dressed woman here, and a bar full of drinks. The seedy smell of alchohol filled the air as girls flirted with girls. Serenity smirked, undoing the rope binding Elise's wrists together. "Welcome to Laveine! The best lesbian bar in all of the Chrysanthemum!" The bartender, a glamorous looking woman, approached with a knowing smile. "You can call me Kitty." She said in a flirtatious drawl. "So is this your girl, Siri? She really is quite the catch, though her fashion choice is questionable for a bar." Serenity giggled but shook her head. "No, no! This is my friend, Elise. We need to dress her up real nice and seductive for someone."
Her voice lowered to a whisper. "It's a guy." Kitty nodded apologetically. "Sorry to hear that. You're free to bat for the other team whenever you want, Miss Elise." The black eagle frowned. Was this really worth leavng Winter behind? "Do what you must. I am sure Serenity has many plans for me." Kitty and Serenity had a lot of fun working on her after moving her to a private room, and putting another lady on shift at the bar. "Look how small her wrists are, how is it legal to be this doll-like?" Kitty squealed as Serenity gloated. "Her hair is so silky smooth, don't I have the best friends ever?" Elise did not know why Serenity was hanging around and making friends with people in lesbian bars now, but she would not judge. "Here, this might help as one final touch." Kitty offered to Elise's surprise Serenity shook her head. "No, don't drug my friend. She doesn't need aphodisiacs to get Ezra into the mood."
"Tell me how it goes, cutie!" Kitty waved her hand as Serenity took Elise back into the car. "Sorry for the fuss. Let's get you to Ezra, okay?" Elise sighed, rolling her eyes. She hoped Winter was having a good time at dinner without her. If only she had a holo, but hers was a neural implant so naturally it did not carry over to her spiritual form she now took. A door opened, Ezra was waiting, his eyes widening as he grinned. "El? What's the occasion? Nice dress, you look really enticing." Elise sighed, grimacing. "Blame Serenity. We need to talk, since this is our last night." He looked at her and put a finger to his lips. "Talk? There isn't a need for that." He pulled her into the house and winked at Serenity, locking the door to his flat behind him.
Elise found herself handcuffed to the wall then, once again taken captive. Ezra grinned. "I could go change, but I'll be taking it off anyways, so maybe I don't have to." He pressed into her, a low growl. "This is impossible, Ezra. I came here to call off the relationship, because I am dead and-" A forceful kiss. "Shh, no words. Only feelings." He peeled his clothes off, revealing the years of work at the construction company having done wonders for his already strong build. He slipped Elise out of her new black dress too, drinking in the sights. He was being forceful, more daring than he ever was before. Why did she not fight back? She could have easily escaped. But it was almost as if she wanted this, at least once.
Was it really so bad to want to enjoy mortal pleasures, once before the end? To enjoy it how it was meant to be, and not how Garell Lawson forced it upon her.
"You don't have to look so cold. From the sounds you made, I know you enjoyed it." They both washed up and were newly clothed. Elise conjured a new cloak with Claude's style and design to provide herself from modesty from the torn dress. It must have gotten damaged during the events. Her body ached, it hurt to sit. Ezra really went hard and strong. "...That may be true... but Ezra, you know that... this cannot work. You and I. You have a full life to live. I cannot regularly come to Earth. What are you really expecting?" Ezra's expression was pained, his strong jaw slightly agape. He gripped her bruised shoulders, kiss marks lining his arms. "El, I don't know those answers. All I know is that I love you, and that you're here now. Maybe in the future I'll move on, find someone else. But right now, I want to enjoy someone who is right before my eyes."
He continued to talk, squeezing her, but she could barely hear him. Her head was going in and out with throbbing agonizing pain. It was difficult to breathe and her spinning head was only getting worse. "Ezra." She panted, grasping. "Let me go back to Winter. I believe time is almost up." She needed to return, but she would not without meeting with Winter and making sure they had a plan. Was Winter coming? Was she staying just a little longer? It all depended on what she wanted to do. "I'll... call Oliver, let him know we're coming." There was restraint in his voice, he was holding himself back again.
It was impossible. It would never work. Why did he not see that?
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❝I put my arms around myself and I'm unbreakable.❞
【ɗιαƖσgυє cσƖσя:#BDA0CB ♙ тнσυgнт cσƖσя #F7B3DA】
|| Dear Winter || AJR ||
【ɗιαƖσgυє cσƖσя:#BDA0CB ♙ тнσυgнт cσƖσя #F7B3DA】
|| Dear Winter || AJR ||
"Winter can stay with me tonight, if she wants a change of scenery? My place is pretty secure?" Carter suggeted while they walked out of the President's office. Winter would have an interview tomorrow. She had begrundingly agreed to it, the President having talked her into it. "No offense Carter, but that's a terrible idea." Oliver replied, crossing his arms. "Why?" Carter asked, nudging Oliver in the shoulder. "Because you're-well-" he started. "A ladies man?" Carter wiggled his eyebrows suggestively. "What? Winter is a taken girl," Carter reminded him. "I'm right here," Winter replied, walking behind the two. She was tired, between the performance and wearing out her human body, Winter was ready to fall right to sleep.
"I'll go to Carter's place," Winter yawned. "Are you sure?" Oliver asked, crossing his arms like a frustrated parent. "Yes, I'm sure." She replied, crossing her arms to match his energy. "I can make my own decisions, thank you." Carter offered his elbow, Winter taking it. Oliver's phone rang then, "It's Ezra." He was still trailing after them on the way to the parking lot. "I told him to meet you at Carter's place. I'll swing by in the morning to pick Winter up for the interview," he waved to them, heading to his own car. Bianca had pulled up the limo, looking equally as tired as the rest of them. "What's with him?" Winter asked as she slid into the preheated seats, the chilly night releasing more snow onto the earth.
"He still has feelings for you," Carter admitted as Bianca drove. "He's still trying to protect you," Winter rolled her eyes. "I'm stronger than both of you combined. Even when I was a human, I was still stronger than both of you. I don't understand where this sudden need to protect me comes from." Carter looked at her strangely, "Winter, you disappeared for two years. Of course we're going to be protective, we don't want you to slip through our fingers again," guilt struck her once more. She felt a pang in her chest and looked down at her lap. "I didn't mean it like that," Carter ammended quickly. "No, you're right. I did a stupid thing, I messed up-" he placed a hand on her shoulder. "Stop beating yourself up, you did not mess up. You thought about your own needs instead of everyone else's. You went on a personal journey and found the love of your life. That's a wonderful thing Winter."
"You really think so?" She asked, "Yes. Why? Are you having doubts about your engagement?" He asked as Winter drew her knees to her chest. "Not really... maybe... I love Zed, I do, with all my heart, but sometimes I wonder if he loves me the way he say he does, or if it's just... fake." Carter moved seats to sit beside her. "Everyone wonders that. It's normal to be nervous before getting married. Have you told him that you're thinking these things?" Winter was silent. "Did you come to earth now to avoid talking to him?" She pushed a strand of hair behind her ear, avoiding looking at him. "Winter!" Carter chasitied. "I know! I know! I'm a terrible person, okay! I just... I can't deal with all of these emotions!" She held her face in her hands, her nails digging into her skin.
"Winter, your childhood was traumatic. Of course you don't know how to process these emotions," he rubbed her back. "What you're feeling is normal and nothing to be ashamed of." They pulled up to a gate house, "one second." He rolled down the window, typing in a code. The gate opened, the limo driving through. "You've always pushed everything and everyone away. Now you're scared because someone is finally there for you and you don't know how to react. You're heart is conflicted," the limo stopped in front of a mansion. "This is where you live?" She was impressed, "Yeah, why? Come on, let's head inside. Ezra should be here any minute."
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❝A second return, but what for? And for whom was I brought back?❞
【ɗιαƖσgυє cσƖσя:#0C94CC ♙ тнσυgнт cσƖσя #CC0C2E】
|| Azalea|| Nano.ripe ||
【ɗιαƖσgυє cσƖσя:#0C94CC ♙ тнσυgнт cσƖσя #CC0C2E】
|| Azalea|| Nano.ripe ||
Elise stared in confusion at the ride in front of her. This was not a hovercar, or even a hoverlimo. It was small, compact, and nearly open to the elements. "Here, put your helmet on. Gotta follow the rules after all. We're going to Carter's place tonight." She blinked, looking at the contraption. "A hoverbike? Why can you not afford a hovercar at least?" Even Serenity had a hovercar working a modest job as a nutritionist. "Well excuse me, but maybe because I know how to live life." He put his helmet on but Elise could hear the arrogant grin behind the visor. "Hop on behind me and hold tight, this is going to be great." Elise sighed and obeyed, putting the straps on so that she was secure on her seat. The bike began to hover up off the ground and Ezra began to move.
"Hoverbikes are allowed to go higher than cars, because we're lighter and easier to manuever." Ezra explained as Elise let go of his waist, spreading her arms out to enjoy the air and the speed. They were already up in the air, above the city's skyline. The evening moon was looking down on them, peeking out from the clouds above. "The anti-gravity rotors are more precise, I do know. I studied electronics, after all." Her cloak billowed widly in the wind, almost looking like white wings spreading out from behind her as they soared through the skies. "Here, watch this." Ezra looped them underneath an overpass, between two high rise buildings, and even ducking in the middle of traffic, finding a gap to speed right between two hovercars. One driver even shook his hand angrily at them, yelling expletives. The whole time Ezra was laughing wildly, like the animal he used to be and Elise felt the thrill in her heart. This was what she was craving. "Oh, you've seen nothing yet!" Ezra took her through more stunts, each one highly illegal.
Breaking all the rules. Having no regard for anything that was supposed to be and focusing only on what they wanted. "Try that. Can we do a nose dive from that thermal?" A thermal was rising air caused by heat on the pavements making the air go up. It helped them gain more altitude and then Ezra had them swooping all the way down, plunging from the clouds nearly all the way to the cold hard ground when he swerved at the last second. "It's not quite like the battlefield, but there's a certain charm to this, isn't there?" Elise was breathless, her fingers tinging from the speed of the air ripping through. Would she ever get to do this again? To experience this kind of joy?
"Here we are." The gate opened and Elise, her face red and her hair a mess, returned to the ground, once again chained to reality. "Thank you. And that was nice. But it can only happen once." Ezra frowned, sighing. "Who knows what the future holds? You should have seen your smile. I've never seen you so unrestrained." He bid farewell then, since he did have work in the morning. On the ground again Elise felt weak and dizzy all over again. She barely even hid her bruises as she tred to reorient herself as Carter and Winter escorted her inside.
There was a lot to say. Carter was trying not to look at her, knowing what had happened between her and Ezra. "Winter, your last performance was wonderful. My apologies for not attending the last moments... I was abducted by Serenity." She sat down, her feet trembling. Was it from excitement or from her weakness? "Here, a drink. Will this help?" Carter already had one mixed and ready for her. It tasted awful but it helped clear her mind a little bit. "Winter, what is your plan? Will you be staying here another day? Or are you returning with me to the Boundary?" Her ruby eyes focused on Winter, wanting to know what her friend would do.
"I will open the way back... I just want to make sure it works." She did not want to leave yet. She still needed to stay if only for a little bit longer. "When is your time limit? You can't let yourself go over, okay?" Carter sounded worried, even she reached her arm out. A rip in time was created, something all Servants could do, they could open a way back that only they could access. Winter no doubt had her own way of returning, or Yuuki would open one for her using Elise's portal generator. But then something was wrong. "It..." The portal was supposed to lead them to the Boundary. It was supposed to show her room at Olympia, in Zed's palace.
It was blocked off. "No, no, this is not right." She tried again. Again, wearing herself out more each time. "Take it easy!" Carter hissed, grabbing her arms. "Stop trying, just close them for now." There was something very wrong, somethngi that should not be happening. "Winter." Elise's voice was serious as she gestured to the portal. "You know what this is." There was something cutting off the Boundary from the Near Shore. A rainbow seal, impossible to break through. "Something is wrong in Olympia. Arke seems to have made her move."
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❝I put my arms around myself and I'm unbreakable.❞
【ɗιαƖσgυє cσƖσя:#BDA0CB ♙ тнσυgнт cσƖσя #F7B3DA】
|| Dear Winter || AJR ||
【ɗιαƖσgυє cσƖσя:#BDA0CB ♙ тнσυgнт cσƖσя #F7B3DA】
|| Dear Winter || AJR ||
"And two dumplings, yes, one fried rice." Carter was ordering them take out for dinner, his treat. Winter pulled off her winter boots, the warm interior of Carter's house a welcome change to the cold outside. She dove onto the couch, wrapping herself up in one of the throws that was laying there. "Make yourself at home," Carter said as they waited for Elise to arrive. It only took a few minutes, she was shaking and pale. "Elise! Thank goodness! I was worried about you," Winter escorted her inside. Carter brought a drink for her, ready to go. "Serenity took you?" Winter thought back to Ezra leaving and thought she knew what this might have been about. "Well, as long as you were safe." She sat across from her, glad that Elise was alright and perhaps had gotten a bit of closure with Ezra.
"I'm going to stay another day," Winter decided. "I can't be gone much longer than that or Zed will start to panic." Winter could tell that Elise was nearing her limit. She was shaking and pale, well, paler than normal at least. "Don't worry, I'll be alright. You need to go back now," she placed a hand over Elise's. "I'll see you back at home." Elise tried to create a tear so that she could return to the Boundary. Winter watched, her smile slowly fading as she realized what was happening. There was a rainbow seal across each tear. They had been locked out of Olympia, out of the Boundary. "No, this can't be right." She rose, on edge. Why would Arke make her move now of all times?
"Yuuki!" Winter called, attempting to summon her friend. He did not appear, "Yuuki, open the portal!" Elise had to go back, or she would fade forever. "Hang on Elise," Winter closed her eyes, her body crumpling. "Winter!" Carter caught her before she could hit the floor. "Yuuki, open the portal." Winter drifted, unable to project into the Boundary. "Yuuki? Are you there?" Her summons were not reaching him. "Zed?" She tried, attempting to call upon her fiance. "Someone, please!" But the Astral plane was devoid of any other life. "He promised me he would wait for me here." Her hands balled into fists. Had something happened to Yuuki?
Winter returned to her body, she gasped as she reconnected, blinking and sitting upright. "No one is answering," there was genuine fear in her eyes. Winter could not make a tear, that was not one of her abilities and if Yuuki wasn't answering her calls, there was no way to let Elise back inside of the Boundary. "We'll figure something out, just hang on a little bit longer, alright?" Why would Arke make her move now, of all times? What was Winter going to do? The doorbell rang, "I'll get it." Carter rose, "It's probably dinner." He disappeared, returning a few minutes later with a paper bag full of steaming Chinese food. "What? No use trying to think when your tank is empty," he pointed out. "Elise, how much longer can you hold out? How much time do we have?"
She should have sent Elise back earlier. She should have made Elise return home the moment she had started to notice the symptoms. This was Winter's fault again, wasn't it? She was going to lose Elise, for real this time. Her heart clenched painfully in her chest. "What if we use a portal generator from this side?" Did they have such a device on earth? Winter didn't know. They couldn't just magic one out of thin air. Another thought struck her then. If Arke had made her move... was Zed alright? What about Zeus and Iris? "What are we going to do?"
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❝A second return, but what for? And for whom was I brought back?❞
【ɗιαƖσgυє cσƖσя:#0C94CC ♙ тнσυgнт cσƖσя #CC0C2E】
|| Azalea|| Nano.ripe ||
【ɗιαƖσgυє cσƖσя:#0C94CC ♙ тнσυgнт cσƖσя #CC0C2E】
|| Azalea|| Nano.ripe ||
She would not be able to get through. She was trapped on this side. Panic was rising in her chest. After settling with her new semi life in the Boundary, she was now doomed to die on this side? Elise gulped, shivering. "I do not think it is possible." She whispered, closing the last portal. She needed to hold onto life as long as she could, so she would stop wasting her powers on portals that could not work. Winter tried calling for Yuuki, then collapsed as she tried to access the spirit realm, but even then, she could not get through. "Midnight." Three hours until the end. Dinner was here, steaming noodles and dumplings were waiting for them. Carter looked frozen as he saw Winter's panic and Elise's resignation. What was she going to do now?
"Well... let's eat for now and think. Here, have another drink, if you think it'll help." Carter went to the blender after setting the Chinese food down for him and Winter to have. Winter asked about a portal generator on this side while Carter mixed fruits and vegatables into his blender, humming a tune to himself to distract himself from the frightening reality. "Would not work." Elise said quietly. "The numbers are different here, on this side, the veil is a different texture, I would need to recalculate... and we do not have the tools to properly measure it." The technological level on Earth was not enough. "I am sorry, Winter." Her managed a bit of a smile, reaching to try and touch Winter, fighting against the overwhelming need to sleep. "Hey, none of that talk." Carter snapped, his trademark smile having fallen off his face. "You'll find a way. Just drink up and think of something." He broke two chopstick pairs and held one for himself and the other for Winter. "It's easier to think with some nutrients in, so let's eat up!"
They ate quietly, Elise desperately trying to wrack her brain. What solutions were there? What could they do? A portal generator was impossible with the time they had left. Maybe if she had more time it would be possible to break through and save Olympia but right now she needed to focus on herself and on what she could do. She needed life energy, the same kind that... "I could go murder someone." She thought aloud. "And reap them. I am something of a reaper after all." Carter frowned, looking at her. "If you think that's necessary, then you should do it." It was clear he did not approve, but if it was to save her life, he was fine with that idea. However as Elise tried to stand up to exit the apartment to find an unlucky person, she fell back to her knees.
She could barely even support her own weight at this point. How was she going to go and hunt someone down for her own gain? She smiled weakly at Winter, and laid herself back down, Carter helping her to a couch. "Sorry. I suppose that is impossible." Was she going to have to die again? To face oblivion even a third time? Even now she could feel herself weakening. How much time was there left? She glanced at the clock and her heart stopped. "It is past midnight? How am I still here?" She was still existing, she was still on Earth. According to calculations, she should have dissipated into dust eight minutes ago. Carter raised an eyebrow, and then there was a sudden light in his eyes.
He took out his holo and made a call. "I got it." He said with a wide grin. "Sorry El, this might be a bit troublesome for you, but I think I know how to keep you here while you and Winter figure out a way to save the Boundary." Ezra's face appeared on the other end, projected above Carter's wrist. "What do you want man, I was about to call it a night." Carter grinned excitedly. "I want you to come over. You can enjoy Elise's body all you like. She probably needs it to live. It's a long story." Ezra looked confused as he stretched. "I'll call in sick for work tomorrow then." He sighed. "I'm on my way."
The call ended, and great relief was on Carter's face. "El, Winter, I think as long as he doesn't use protection, everything is going to be just fine."
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❝I put my arms around myself and I'm unbreakable.❞
【ɗιαƖσgυє cσƖσя:#BDA0CB ♙ тнσυgнт cσƖσя #F7B3DA】
|| Dear Winter || AJR ||
【ɗιαƖσgυє cσƖσя:#BDA0CB ♙ тнσυgнт cσƖσя #F7B3DA】
|| Dear Winter || AJR ||
It was past midnight, Elise was still here. It was a miracle, of sorts. "Ezra? What does he have to do with this?" Winter asked, confused. She looked between Carter and Elise, who seemed to share a knowing expression. "What am I missing?" She asked, feeling left out. "Oh Winter, still so innocent." He laughed, "have you and Zed even shared a bed?" He asked, opening up a box of lo mein. Winter's face turned bright red. "Of-of course not! We're not married yet!" She replied, snatching up a box of dumplings and sitting down next to where Elise was laying. Ezra showed up thirty minutes later, looking as though he had just woken up. "What's up?" He asked, his eyes falling to Elise in worry. "What are you still doing here? You need to go back," Winter rose, having just finished her portion of dumplings. "That's the problem, we can't get back. We've been cut off."
Carter showed them to where they could sleep for the night, one room for Elise and Ezra and another one for Winter. "I'll be just down the hall, to that door." Carter pointed, "goodnight," he waved. "night," Winter waved, she glanced worriedly at Elise and Ezra, disappearing behind a door, before going into her own room. She took a long, hot bath, using the pajamas Carter had provided them. She lay in bed, struggling to fall asleep, her worry eating her alive. Would Elise make it through the night? She wondered, tossing and turning. Eventually, Winter managed to fall asleep, her eyes closing as rest came over her at last.
"Winter?" Someone was shaking her. She had just fallen asleep too. Winter peeled one eye open, then the other. "Zed? Zed!" He embraced her, wrapping Winter up in his arms. "I've been so worried," he murmured into her hair. "What's happening in Olympia?" Winter asked, "Why didn't anyone open the portal generator?" Zed was silent for a moment, stroking her hair. "Things aren't good," he admitted. "Arke?" Winter asked, relaxing in his arms. "Yes and the Anti-Zeus faction. They've taken Iris hostage. They're looking for you too. They want to kill you. You can't return to Olympia right now, not until all of this has blown over." She looked up at him, worry in his eyes. "Elise needs to return, please, you need to find a way to open the portal generator." Zed nodded, determined. "I'll try, but what about you?" He stroked her cheek, "Just give me the signal when it's safe to return. I'll stay here in the meanwhile, it's safe here."
He kissed her, Winter wondering how long it would be until they could see each other again. "I love you, my red rose." He whispered, "I love you too," she whispered as he faded.
Winter awoke to a knock on the door, feeling oddly cold. "Winter?" Carter asked, "You okay in there?" She groaned, "I'm fine!" Oliver would be here soon, she was supposed to meet with the President and have a televised interview. "How is Elise this morning?" Winter asked as he made them some tea and coffee in the large kitchen. "Don't know, those two love birds haven't come out of the bedroom yet." Winter's cheeks turned pink, she turned away, looking inside of his fridge. "What's the point of this giant fridge if you just use it to store take out? Don't you ever cook?" Winter asked, placing her hands on her hips. "Of course not, I'm a bachlor Winter. We don't cook, we order take out and then eat it for breakfast the next morning." Winter made a fake gagging sound. "You know, ladies like a man who can cook," he laughed, dumping sugar into his coffee.
"Oliver will be here soon to grab you, just don't get nervous and you'll do fine." He pat her on the back, "I'm never nervous." Winter replied, stirring honey into her tea.
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❝A second return, but what for? And for whom was I brought back?❞
【ɗιαƖσgυє cσƖσя:#0C94CC ♙ тнσυgнт cσƖσя #CC0C2E】
|| Azalea|| Nano.ripe ||
【ɗιαƖσgυє cσƖσя:#0C94CC ♙ тнσυgнт cσƖσя #CC0C2E】
|| Azalea|| Nano.ripe ||
Her whole body as incredibly sore, especially a certain cavern between her legs that felt as if it were on fire and also split open all at the same time. Elise groaned, stirring awake, rubbing weakly at her eyes. She was in tremendous pain - Ezra had been very thorough last night, and he was not a small man down there. That was when Elise remembered that she was still handcuffed to the bed, her wrist bent at an odd angle. Ezra's rumbling snoring was echoing through the rook, he was still fast asleep right next to her, a look of contentment on his face. The black eagle's face tinged pink as she twisted her wrist through the cuff, pulling it out and freeing her arm. "Ow." She muttered, recalling Ezra's persistence that night. "Are you still dizzy? Lightheaded?" He himself was exhausted, having gone past his limit. "I'll keep going until you feel strong again."
He worked himself to the bone until there was no juice left in him, but at last, Elise felt back to how she did when she first arrived, full of power. Her heart twisted with aching guilt thinking about how hard Ezra had worked that night, there was no doubt he too was in physical pain by the end of it. Elise stepped into the side bathroom, giving herself a shower, a teeth brushing, and a whole new cloak once everything was said and done. Once she was sure the musky scent of man was off her body, she exited the room to the breakfast table, glumly spotting Winter and Carter eating. Carter's expression brightened as he patted the blender. "Your breakfsast drink is in process! How are you feeling, El?"
There were a lot of ways she could answer that question. Disgusted for having to drink more. Better, to the point that she could last a little longer - hopefully long enough to solve the problem of them being locked out of the Boundary. "Pain. I cannot walk or sit." She sighed dramatically, rolling a shoulder as she limped to stand by Winter's chair. "But I suppose I will have to stick around for some time yet." She was well enough to survive a little longer. "How about you two? Have you decided on a plan of action?" Maybe not Carter, but there was a chance that Winter had a solution to their problem after having had a night's sleep.
The juice tasted bad of course, as all food and nourishment did that was not water. Still, she drank it, knowing how important it was to comply with Kore's orders. A loud voice boomed and Ezra joined the table, grinning. "Last night was great." He looked a little unsteady, though he tried to hide it with the confident happiness in his eyes. "I discovered something very important last night." His eyes went serious then as he reached for Elise's hood, pulling it down off of her head and raven hair. His hand reached for her little white round horns before she could react in her fatigue. He rubbed at them, an overhwhelming sense of pleasure flooring her body as she fell to her knees, a strange noise escaping her mouth. "Who knew these horns could feel like this." Ezra grinned when Elise's face went deep red, narrowing her eyes. "Th-that is... irrelevent and... besides the point."
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❝I put my arms around myself and I'm unbreakable.❞
【ɗιαƖσgυє cσƖσя:#BDA0CB ♙ тнσυgнт cσƖσя #F7B3DA】
|| Dear Winter || AJR ||
【ɗιαƖσgυє cσƖσя:#BDA0CB ♙ тнσυgнт cσƖσя #F7B3DA】
|| Dear Winter || AJR ||
"I'm glad to hear that you're doing better." Winter was relieved, she had been worried. "I managed to contact Zed in my dreams last night. He's going to open the portal for you, he says it's not safe for me to return yet, but he'll send word once it is." Elise was a mere servant, as harsh as it sounded. No doubt Arke would not care about her presence. Especially if she was to return to the Underworld. "So how long will you be here for?" Carter asked, "Not that I mind, you can stay in the guest room as long as you need, both of you." Winter finished her breakfast, which Carter had ordered from a place down the street. A bagel and cream cheese, simple but easy. "If I'm going to stay here longer, we're going to need to do some shopping." Carter rolled his eyes, "Fine." Ezra appeared then, doing something rather crewd at the table.
Winter's cheeks turned pink as a result. "D-don't do that out here!" She squeaked, "You're embarrassing Elise!" Carter and Ezra both laughed, "So innocent," Carter pat her head. Winter crossed her arms. There was a knock at the door, "Oh, that must be Oli," Carter rose from the table. "Time to go," Winter sighed, taking one last bite of her breakfast. "I'll be back soon," Winter said to Elise and Ezra, "Take care of Elise, okay?" It was clear that Winter was still worried about her. It was indeed Oliver at the door, "Ready to go?" He asked, offering a hand. "Yes," she wrapped herself in her coat and took the offered hand. "So did Elise make it home alright?" He asked as they walked through the freshly driven snow. "No, she's still here. The gates are all closed, something is happening in the Boundary." Oliver took pause, "So what will you do?"
"Zed has advised me to stay on earth until it's safe to return." The interior of his car was warm and smelled like coffee. It reminded her of the day he had picked her up from the cafe. "Are you sure you want to do this?" Oliver asked, wanting to confirm. Winter nodded, "Yes, I'm sure. I'v ealready agreed to it anyhow," the car began to hover, pulling away from Carter's mansion. "How was the night here? Carter wasn't too seedy, was he?" Winter shook her head, "Not at all." She laughed, the gates closing behind them. It took a bit of driving to reach the studio. It was not what Winter had been expecting. It was almost like what she had watched Carter do the day before. "Is Winter's dressing room ready?" Oliver asked as they checked in with security. "Yes, right this way." There was a room with a plaque on the door, her name glowing in dancing lights.
"I'll be right out here if you need anything, just call." Winter nodded, the door closing behind her. "You must be Ms. Winter! It is an honor to meet you!" A woman with bangs slashed sideways and a colorful outfit bound up to her. "Oh, is it okay to shake? Am I allowed to touch you?" She asked, hesitant. "Yes, it's fine." Winter offered a hand. The woman took both of Winter's hands in her own, shaking them quickly. "I am so excited to work with you! Alright, let's get styling. Come sit right here," she pat a tall chair and wrapped a cloak around Winter's neck. "Do you have any ideas?" She asked as she wet Winter's hair, running a brush through it. "No, I had no idea that this was happening."
"Alright, I'll take over then. Just leave it to me Ms. Winter," Winter had no idea what this woman's name was, but she trusted her decision. She tugged her hair this way and that, applying heated rollers and hairspray. She used fluffy brushes to make her cheeks pink and her eyes pop. Two hours had passed before the woman stepped away, "there! You look the picture of perfection!" Winter slid off of the chair, glancing at her reflection in the mirror. Her outfit was carefully curated to fit her style. "Winter? Are you ready?" Oliver asked, knocking on the door. "Yes, I am."
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❝A second return, but what for? And for whom was I brought back?❞
【ɗιαƖσgυє cσƖσя:#0C94CC ♙ тнσυgнт cσƖσя #CC0C2E】
|| Azalea|| Nano.ripe ||
【ɗιαƖσgυє cσƖσя:#0C94CC ♙ тнσυgнт cσƖσя #CC0C2E】
|| Azalea|| Nano.ripe ||
Winter was going to go and talk to the President. There was a lot to do, but with hope, this would help stabilize the situation here in the Chrysanthemum. Ezra looked pleased with himself as he flipped the hood back up, smoothing the white silky cloth. "I wish you good luck. Stay safe." Now that Elise knew she could live for a little longer on Earth, she had time to try and do something. Already ideas were spinning in her head, a possible way to reach the Boundary. According to Winter Zed was going to find a way to bring her over but Elise shook her head, her eyes calm and calculated. "No. Tell him to keep his head down and focus on doing what is necessary to win over Arke." If she risked himself trying to retrieve Elise he could get hurt.
"Wait, but how will you get back then?" Carter asked at the same time Ezra smiled. "Good, then you can stay here even longer, right? My passion will let you survive!" He grinned, no doubt proud of himself for the disgusting line. Elise had a plan of course, an idea was fishing around in the recesses of her mind. "I have a plan. And now that I have more time, perhaps I can see this plan to fruition." Winter would be gone but Elise had a task to do as well. At least the storm was over - there was certainly a new layer of snow, but without all the wind and hail, it looked almost nice in a way, peaceful. Snow could be beautiful if you looked at it the right way. "Don't forget, if you have time, Jasmine invites us all to persian cuisine at her place." Carter reminded himself, fixing his hair in his holo-mirror. He had an appointment too of course, an appearance on a talk show was waiting for him.
After Carter was picked up by Bianca and gave spare keys to Elise, and Winter was escorted by Oliver to meet with the President, Elise began to head out herself, ready to fly through the sky using her mist to reach her destination when someone tugged at her cloak. "Hey, don't forget me. I called sick off work, so I'm free today." She narrowed her eyes at him. "This is going to be dangerous." She said quietly, not wanting him to follow her. "I know. You're going after the military. They're keeping it's location a secret, but you probably already know where it is. I'm coming too, it'll be fine." Elise sighed, wondering what to do. "Fine." She conjured another cloak just for him, big and white, the same style as her own. "Wear it. You can pretend to be my Servant." She did not want him getting into serious trouble.
"Do not speak." She instructed as she helped him travel through the mist towards the north part of the city. "They may recognize your voice." But even so, Ezra was happy to take her through the paces. Just like last night, taking big nose dives, swerving between buildings left right and center, laughing all the while. Truly a thrill-seeker, yet Elise could not hate it. It was almost fun for her as well. But finally, they reached it, a complex hidden away from the eyes of the public, hidden by a fake holographc screen. Soldiers aimed their guns at them quickly. "Hey, you two! How'd you get here? You're not supposed to know this building exists!"
Elise sighed, raising her arm. She could fight if she needed to. Ezra smacked his fists together threateningly, his figure tall and imposing. "I am an Heir. If you know what is best for you own lives, you will let me through." Kore was really going to be amused by the retelling of this story later, was she not? "Back up! You're on restricted ground!" They shouted, their guns aimed right at their heads. "Turn around, hands up, on the count of three." Elise stared him down, wanting to avoid a confrontation if at all possible. It was then that someone stepped out and lowered their guns for them. "Trust me." Mercedes said with a tired sigh. "You two wouldn't stand a chance. Unless you want to die, you'll leave. I'll keep watch over her." While she was lower rank, they respected that she was a Vassal and backed off, saluting her.
Mercedes rolled her eyes, then crossed her arms. "So what do you want? Do you know what's here?" She seemed to be ignoring the big figure. "How are you even still here right now?" Elise did not really want to retell the story again. "It is a long story. But I know. This is where the remains of the Doctor's portal is." The Doctor's bridge to the Boundary, when he pushed Ezra, herself, and Winter through to the other side. The only person able to succeed in making a tear from this side. If anyone could force an opening, it was him. "It was destroyed when you fought him." Mercedes shrugged. "Can you tell me why you want it?" The black eagle offered a grim smile. "My death may be permanent. Winter might die as well, unless I can access the Doctor's old machinery." A flicker of concern was on Mercedes's face. "Then we should get to it then. Whatever's going on, nothing can beat a team of you and Winter." She pulled out her card and opened the hydraulic gate, allowing her and Ezra to enter the complex.
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❝I put my arms around myself and I'm unbreakable.❞
【ɗιαƖσgυє cσƖσя:#BDA0CB ♙ тнσυgнт cσƖσя #F7B3DA】
|| Dear Winter || AJR ||
【ɗιαƖσgυє cσƖσя:#BDA0CB ♙ тнσυgнт cσƖσя #F7B3DA】
|| Dear Winter || AJR ||
They took photos first, ones that would go in the newspaper. She was given a prop violin to hold, one without strings. It was strange, admittedly, but Winter did not question it. Oliver remained with her the entire time, sometimes cracking a joke to make her smile and getting promptly yelled at by the photographer. After that, they had lunch in Winter's dressing room and her makeup was touched up again. "Why would you choose to eat salad if you can have a hamburger?" Oliver laughed, "I was thinking the same thing," the woman from before came to touch up her lipstick one last time. "Alright Winter, this is it." She nodded, "I know, I'm ready." The interview would be televised across the Chrysanthemum, it had been advertised the night before and that morning. "Winter arriving to sound stage 1," she was told to wait in the wings while the lounge chairs were cleaned from the last guest.
"Nervous?" Oliver asked, hands in his pockets. "Never," Winter replied. "And next up, we have a very special interview with Winter Matsuri!" There was applause, as well as a recorded loop. The live audience was rather small, Winter thought as she strode from the wing and onto the set, taking a seat in one of the large chairs. "Ms. Matsuri, it is an honor to have you with us tonight." The lights were so bright, she thought, and warm. "It is lovely to be here," she sat up a bit straighter, aware of the eyes on her. "We all watched your performance last night, it was immaculate. Was that an original composition?" Winter nodded, "Yes, it's a song I spent many sleepless nights to bring to life." The host laughed as though she had just said something funny. "Well, you made it seem effortless! But why is that your last performance?"
"I'm returning to the Boundary," Winter replied. "Heirs cannot live on earth, it is not meant for us." Similar to Elise's dilemma, Winter would have had to return to the Boundary, albeit she could stay a bit longer than a servant could. Especially since she had a physical body. It was why Yuuki and Zoku could not always be in her head, but came and went as they pleased. It took spiritual energy to be here. "We saw you fleeing the scene yesterday with a certain Carter Grayson. Tell us, is there anything going on there?" The host winked and Winter shook her head, remaining as stoic as ever. She spotted Oliver in the wing, who was motioning for her to smile. "No, nothing going on there. I'm engaged to a lovely Heir named Zed. Carter is simply a friend, a fellow former vassal."
"Speaking of vassals, what are your thoughts on the current President? How do you feel about the shift in power?" Winter blinked, she had not been expecting a question like that. "To be frank, I don't know much about the current politics." The Host nodded, "Do you think she'll do right by this country? Are you afraid of a repeat in history?" She felt suddenly uneasy. "What do you mean?"
"Well, we all know your history." The Host laughed again, her smile suddenly unnerving. "I don't-" there was suddenly static, an overwhelmingly loud sound in her ears. Winter was sensitive to sound. "Oh, my mic has gone out." Was that what the sound was? "Standby, we're receiving interference on our channel." The lights flickered, Winter rose slowly. She bit down on her lip, her entire body shaking. She had a terrible feeling in the pit of her stomach. The lights came back on, the holo projectors all flickering to life on their own.
"Greetings Citizens of the Chrysanthemum," a woman with the lightest blonde hair and eyes the color of the rainbow smiled from wherever she was. "My name is Arke, I am the Heiress of Rainbows and currently ruling Olympia." She crossed her slender legs, wearing a white dress and a large crown. "I believe you earthlings have something that belongs to me," a photo of Winter flashed across the screen. "I'm going to kindly ask that you return her to me, or else I will unleash a wave of monsters the likes of which will destroy your pitiful city. You have until midnight tomorrow. I'll be waiting for her at the clock tower. Buh-bye," she waved, the screen going out.
"Ms. Matsuri, care to make a comment?" They were all watching her. Winter was frozen. For the first time in her life, she was nervous during a performance. "I'm afraid I have to cut this interview short," she was shaking, her hands balling into fists. "I have business to attend to," Oliver rushed across the stage, grabbing her elbow as she was peppered with questions and escorted her backstage once more. "We need to go, now." The cameras followed them, the security cameras turnning as they walked. "Do you know that woman?"
"Arke, she was Zeus's former wife and the former Heir of Rainbows." Her voice trembled, her knees felt weak.
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❝A second return, but what for? And for whom was I brought back?❞
【ɗιαƖσgυє cσƖσя:#0C94CC ♙ тнσυgнт cσƖσя #CC0C2E】
|| Azalea|| Nano.ripe ||
【ɗιαƖσgυє cσƖσя:#0C94CC ♙ тнσυgнт cσƖσя #CC0C2E】
|| Azalea|| Nano.ripe ||
It was almost exactly how Elise last saw it. The portal constructor was destroyed, the sphere that housed the nexus of power was exposed and open, frayed wires all over. The bridge was cracked and frayed, the whole structure needed to be rebuilt. "Tell me what you think, to me it all looks like Greek." Ezra sat himself in a corner of the room and Elise began looking through, examining the connections, the technology. This was definitely beyond Earthly tech. Who created this? Who really was the Doctor in the end? That kind of question Elise would probably wonder for the restof her life. How did he even find a way to break through the veil? How did he know it was there at all? "This is far more brute force than mine." Elise said softly. "It was designed to punch through, while my own portal generators create gentle tears that can be mended."
Ezra nodded, clearly not understanding a word that was said in the slightest. "Well, can you make use of it?" Elise nodded, a tiny smile. "Normally I disapprove of this kind of science. But this kind of power may be exactly what we need to break through Arke's seal." Ezra grinned with approval. "That's my girl. You always find a way. How long do you think it'll take to fix it?" Elise glanced at it and wondered. "First we would have to relocate. I do not trust the military with this technology. Then, we would need to find a way to create the tools needed to repair it..." She could not estimate, this was going to be a long project without proper support and resources. "Put it in my flat." Ezra said quickly with a grin. "Put it through that weird mist ball of yours. You can do that, right?" Elise blinked. "What? I did not leave a mist ball at your flat."
Ezra smiled then, giving her a quick peck on the cheek. "You did! While we were doing it, maybe it came by accident, but I thought it was because you always wanted to come back to my place." She must have unconsciously created one during climax. How embarrassing, was she really that out of control? It felt good, it did, but Elise did not like losing control of herself. She did not like feeling as if she was no longer able to regulate her actions and feelings. It was... frightening, it was not something she was used to. Elise touched the bundle of machinery. "I apologize for the mess. I cannot ensure that this will-" She spun at the last second, sensing the glint of muzzle in the reflection of the metal of the Doctor's device. A wall of mist shot out, catching the bullets.
"Catch the Heirs! They're working for Winter, if we don't catch them we're all going to die!" The soldiers were shooting but panic was in their eyes. Ezra threw himself at Elise but she pushed him behind her, creating another shield of mist. "What are you doing." She glared, ready to strike if she needed to. "If we don't take Winter in, the apocalypse will happen again. That's what that woman said on the screen! And you'll stop us from touching Winter, so we have to-" Elise lunged forward, having having heard enough. "If you are going to stop me, I have no choice but to kill you." Spikes made of mist rose up from the floor, aiming to pierce all the soldiers in their throats when a gunshot rang out, sharp and clear.
Mercedes stood out, blowing smoke from her pistol. "Anyone willing to fight against the Heirs for humanity's independence, stand up." She spoke in a cold effective voice. "Anyone who wants to side with Arke, go over here." She glanced at Elise and shook her head. "Don't attack yet. Just stay down, Elise." Anyone that tried to fight back against Mercedes was met with an icy response. "If you don't listen to me, I can just have Elise attack you all and be done with it." So they filed accordingly. On one side, those willing to fight with Mercedes, with Winter and Elise. On the other side, those wanting to turn them in. Once everything was arranged, Mercedes pressed a button, a wall coming down. "There, now they're locked in, and no blood has to be shed." Mercedes sneered, stepping forward. Ezra looked surprised but Elise was not. "What are you... I was ready to fight you again, Mercy." Ezra scratched his head, pulling his hood down.
Mercedes gave him a grim look. "Elise and Winter fought harder than anyone to stop the apocalypse. This Arke woman wants to start it again. I won't stand for that." She shook her head. "This time, the military will fight for the Chrysanthemum, and for you. Isn't that right, everyone?" The loyalist stood in salute, determination and fear in their eyes. "Yes, captain!" They cried in unison. "Lady Elise, what is your command?" It seemed Mercedes did a good job in drilling them to obedience. Or maybe they truly were sick of Heirs trying to control humans one way or another. "First, we are to secure Winter's safety. Mercedes, contact Oliver and coordinate with him and the Slithers." Mercedes nodded, already preparing her holo. "And tell Winter to call my name. I need to reach her as quickly as possible."
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❝I put my arms around myself and I'm unbreakable.❞
【ɗιαƖσgυє cσƖσя:#BDA0CB ♙ тнσυgнт cσƖσя #F7B3DA】
|| Dear Winter || AJR ||
【ɗιαƖσgυє cσƖσя:#BDA0CB ♙ тнσυgнт cσƖσя #F7B3DA】
|| Dear Winter || AJR ||
The ground vibrated around them, Oliver dragging Winter along. "Come on, we're almost at the car!" The wall of sound unfroze, Winter having to make sure that they were not followed out of the studio. It felt even colder outside, if possible. They lunged into the vehicle, Oliver hitting the gas. The hover car sped off, Oliver remaining steely. "I know you want to say something," Winter started, crossing her arms. "What does Arke mean, return you to her?" Winter shook her head. "She wants everything Zeus has. I'm assuming that includes me. She tried to have me killed before." Oliver turned pale. A car suddenly shot out in front of them, Oliver swerving. "Hang on!" Winter held onto the handles tightly as the hover car flipped. "Star dress!" She grabbed Oliver, pushing them out of the car so that they would not get crushed in oncoming traffic.
"You are surrounded! Drop the civilian and put your hands in the air!" Her heart felt frozen in her chest. "Winter," Oliver shook her. "Winter, you need to run." The scene of the bombing flashed before her eyes. It was happening again, wasn't it? "Tch, I hate humans." Oliver looked at her, surprise in his eyes. "Winter?" He asked, hesitant. "Cover your ears," he didn't hesitate. Winter held her arms out wide, "don't move or we'll shoot!" She felt power building up in her hands. "Thunder clap," when her palms met, a wall of sound exploded. She grabbed Oliver's wrist, running in the opposite direction. "Where are we going?" He asked, "I don't know, but we have to get away from here." She replied, "Winter, those people were innocent!" He wrenched his wrist out of her grip. She turned, staring at him strangely. "Winter... you've changed." He said softly. "You don't get it, do you?" Winter narrowed her eyes. "If I'm handed over to Arke, I'm as good as dead."
"Those people were just scared, Winter. You attacked them."
"I protected myself. I protected us. They're going to catch up if we don't keep running." Oliver shook his head. "You can't seriously be doing this now? How many civilians did you order killed in the attacks that the Slithers Performed? How many innocents died then?" He paled. "That's what I thought. Tch, I really do hate humans. I didn't change Oliver, you did." She took off then, leaving him behind. Oliver stood there, stunned, as though he had been slapped in the face, which he may as well have been. "Winter, wait!" But it was too late, she was already gone. Winter headed towards Carter's home, the small wings on the back of her star dress carrying her there. She landed inside of the gate and knocked on the door, but there was no one there. "He's probably still at his shoot," she had left her key in her jacket at the studio. "I'll just go in through the window," she spotted an open window on the second floor.
Elise would be back soon, Winter would wait here. Her stomach growled, she had no holo phone, no way to contact the others. Jasmine had invited her over for dinner, but she could not put Claude's family in danger. Not now. "I'll just make myself some tea," Winter decided. She walked into the kitchen, boiling the hot water. She heard something behind her, "Carter, is that you? I'm making tea, want some?" Something connected with her shoulder. Winter turned, too late. Electricity shot through her body, a taser making her fall to the ground. She spotted them through the windows, the house was surrounded. Had they followed her here? "Give up Winter Matsuri."
"No, E-" she tried to call for Elise as she was tased again. Her ears hummed and buzzed, her vision blurry as she panted. She was rolled over, her wrists cuffed behind her. She was dragged out of Carter's home and thrown into the back of an armored van, guns pointed at her. "Move an inch and we'll shoot." They threatened, but Winter couldn't hear what they were saying. Her ears were still buzzing. She could feel the vibrations of the truck beneath her as they moved, her head spinning.
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❝A second return, but what for? And for whom was I brought back?❞
【ɗιαƖσgυє cσƖσя:#0C94CC ♙ тнσυgнт cσƖσя #CC0C2E】
|| Azalea|| Nano.ripe ||
【ɗιαƖσgυє cσƖσя:#0C94CC ♙ тнσυgнт cσƖσя #CC0C2E】
|| Azalea|| Nano.ripe ||
The President sipped her tea, enjoying the subtle bitter taste, like a sword against her tongue. The Chrysanthemum seemed to be on fire again but she was pitiful. For her entire Presidency so far, she has had no power, she was nothing but a puppet at the Slithers' control. She loved this city - but what could she do against Arke? The door opened and the real President stepped in, a glare clear in his eyes. "President." Oliver said, pushing his hand on the desk. There was agitation on his eyes. "There's no one else here." The President said pleasantly. "We both know you're truly the one in charge." Oliver nodded, the intentions clear on his face. "If you dare try to go against us, you know what will happen to your family." She nodded, sipping more tea. "Don't worry. I met Winter already - a good, earnest girl. She played a song of hope for our hurt and disparaged people. Arke would only bring more despair."
Oliver nodded, pulling his other hand out from his jacket pocket, empty. The President might just be a weak, useless puppet, but she was not a fool. She knew Oliver was ready to shoot her or threaten her if he thought it was necessary. "Then I'm very glad you were able to see sense." Oliver said, fire still clear in his dark eyes. "Winter was taken. My Slithers are already working on blockading the city. Mercedes has some loyalist soldiers, but we need your approval to fully mobilize all of our standby military." It was certainly an odd change. Last time, the soldiers stood against the Vassals. This time, they would be working together with those same Vassals as their allies. Oliver gave her power and this position. Why? Because no one would take him seriously if he claimed the throne himself.
As useless as the President was, she knew Oliver would never kill her. He needed her as his puppet. "But we do this my way, Oliver. This is my city. We need to limit the destruction as much as we can. The people have been hurt enough from the apocalypse, any more damage and destruction will only make it harder to rebuild. Do you agree with my only request?" Oliver hesitated, then nodded. "We'll spare as many lives as we can." He said, and the President smiled. She was weak, she was useless... but even she had a little bit of power to save even one life.
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The helicopter was loud as it flew in the sky. Mercedes held her holo, tapped into the radios of everyone that was working with her. "We have permission!" General Boyle said, his voice crackling into her communications. "The President has agreed to fully mobilize. Everyone willing to stand for the Chrysanthemum's freedom is ready to move out." Mercedes nodded, signalling to the pilot of the aircraft to fly closer to the clocktower, standing tall in the center of the Chrysanthemum. Military jeeps already blockaded the area, covering all the streets. Soldiers ran to the sewer caps, locking them shut with metal sheets. Snipers positioned themselves on the rooftops, ready to fire at a moment's notice. "This is Captain Edmund." Mercedes spoke, an authoritative tone to her voice. "The Lockdown Team is in position. I repeat, the Lockdown Team has the Clocktower surrounded."
But there was no sign of the enemy. Where were they hiding? Where were they waiting? They only had the manpower right now to make sure the clocktower could not be touched, but she needed more people. That was why they needed the President's approval so badly to have the res of the standing forces have the green light to move ahead. "Captain, I'm going to split us into two groups to hunt the city. We'll target specific locales of groups known to carry arms and weapons." Mercedes gave them the affirmative. While General Boyle was technically the highest ranked soldier right now, Mercedes had more expertise, so she was given temporary command for this mission. "Thank you General. Please keep a small group of military engineers at this address. There's something they need to work on."
She forwarded Ezra's home address to the General to receive. "Ensure that they are guarded at all times. Elise left instructions on how to repair it, so the engineers can begin work on that." According to what Elise said, if they wanted a chance to take the fight to Arke and oust her, returning power to Zeus as it rightfully should be, Arke would never be able to threaten the Chrysanthemum again. First they needed to protect Winter, then they needed to punch an opening for Elise and Winter to make it safely to Zed and Zeus and hopefully eliminate Arke in her own home. Suddenly, there was another call. "This is Angelina! We found footage of Winter being abducted from this address five minutes ago!" Angelina was a hacker, tapping into the city street cameras from the central of command.
"Describe the vehicle." Mercedes growled, knowing that they were on limited time now. "It's an armored vehicle. Here, I'll send the HoverTag to you so we can track it down."
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"Woohoo! This is a blast!" Ezra snickered as his hoverbike blasted through the sky, swerving around. They had the HoverTag now, so the coordinates were locked down on the GPS of his hoverbike. "Be careful! If you crash there will not be enough of us left to save Winter with!" He was driving recklessly, making illegal turns left and right. It was fun, but right now, excitement and thrill were the last factors on Elise's mind. "I gotta go fast or we'll never track them down. There's a reason I'm the best hoverbike racer in all of the Chrysanthemum."
Elise frowned. "Illegal races? You take part in that?" Ezra grinned, shaking his head. They did not even have the time to don their protective helmets, so their cloaks were billowing in the cold winter sky, wind ripping at their cheeks. Elise made mist goggles for them so at least they could see. "What? No, I'm just kidding. Claude and I make bets on the tracks. My favorite is U. Bolt, he's really-" Elise aimed a spike of mist to the side, a hovercar flying this high was against the law. It was dark and armored, chasing them from the sky. Only bikes were allowed this high in the sky. The spike broke through the engine and it began to fall back to the ground.
"Elise!" Oliver snarled, his voice like a knife. "They might have just been normal civilians! Try not to kill if you can help it!" When had Oliver become such a coward? His voice sounded on Ezra's holo. "I have no choice. If Winter is in danger, anyone might be a threat. Her safety is above all else to me." Did Oliver have an agreement with the President or something? Whatever, that was not for Elise to worry about. "And if they are the enemy, they all deserve death for being afraid of Arke that they would commit treason." Blaring on all the speakers around the city was the President giving her speech, directing the military forces of the city.
"All who are in my employ - work together with Mercedes and Elise, our Heir of Mercy." Her voice rang out, the message playing on repeat. "Those who are found cooperating with Arke will be found guilty of treason against the Chrysanthemum and will be given the death penalty. If are not a soldier and you are siding with Arke, then you will be found guilty of disloyalty to the Chrysanthemum and be exiled, and all of your assets seized by the State. This message will repeat until there are no more left to hear it. Please choose wisely." Then it began to play over again, like the soundtrack to the mission. "We do whatever it takes." Ezra cracked a wide roguish smile. Was it just Elise, or did Ezra love being able to fight again? "Just like old times! We won't let rules or stuffy adults stand in our way!"
Elise nudged him, rolling her eyes. "You are an adu-"
Bullets. Elise waved her arm swiftly, a sheet of mist blocking it. Two armored cars were chasing them now, but they were wise. They were staying out of range of her own mist abilities. If only she still had her rain, maybe she could do something. "Ezra, we have to lose them! Show me that you are the best driver!" Ezra grinned, revving the engine. "I'll do stunts that make them drop their pants in shock! Hold on tight, El, this one's going to be bumpy!" He swerved hard left all of a sudden, ducking through the Museum of Spirals, dodging bullet fire left and right. "Down to the slums! The streets are narrow there!" Ezra nodded, flying towards a dead end wall when suddenly he jerked upwards, doing almost a loop, then flipping around to drive in the other direction. Bullets continued to fly, but Elise was making sure they were not hitting anything.
"What's happening? Oliver's voice sparked. "The slums are the opposite direction!" Elise shook her head furiously. "We are being chased. For now, we need to find a chance to eliminate them." There was silence on the other end then. Ezra drove them right into traffic, against the flow of rush hour, dodging through the gaps to buy time. They received quite a few rude hand gestures that quickly became pictures and videos on the holo when they realized Elise the Heir, former Hresvelg and movie star, was here. Lights and city windows were shattered as they were caught in the crossfire. At least one pedestrian fell down, clutching her chest as she was hit by a ricochet, letting out a scream. One of the pursuers nearly ran into a street light and wasted time fixing their angle to keep chasing, getting farther and farther behind.
As the chase continued, Oliver's voice came back on. "Up! Mercedes's helicopter is close by. Fly to the sky and they'll cover you." Ezra nodded, grinning. "Finally you military freaks are being useful! Let's go then you idiots! Keep chasing us!" Shooting an obscene gesture at the chasers behind him Ezra took them out of the slums towards the sky, towarsd the sun. Now they were in the open air, and the bullets were getting closer and closer. "I cannot keep defending forever." Elise hissed, making another sheet of mist to catch bullets, feeling it weighing on her mind. The two armored cars continued to chase, their drivers leaning out to keep trying to shoot as Ezra dodged in every direction to stay out of the line of fire.
They were dizzyingly high in the sky, the city's buildings looking almost like buildings blocks on a children's toy set. "Don't look down, you'll get vertigo." Ezra's voice was quiet and calm. Then the whir of helicopter blades descended upon them, a shadow in the skies above. "I've got you. Go get Winter." Mercedes's cold voice sounded, the blasters on the helicopter firing slugs of energy towards the two cars, taking them out with ease. Ezra nodded. "Thanks for the assist! We've got this from here!" He looked back at the coordinates and then began chasing after the car holding Winter captive.
Over the south side of the city, by a long sprawling bridge to a manmade island, one of the research centers off the coast of the Chrysanthemum, the armored car with Winter was trying to escape. "We found them. Locking onto the target now." Ezra revved the engine, speeding them faster and close to the enemy. They noticed of course and one leaned out to begin firing back, holding a long weapon. Large explosive rockets fired out, leaving smoke trailing behind as Ezra weaved and dodged around each one. "I'm going to ram it. Protect my baby, will you?" Elise nodded, making a sheet of mist to protect the side of the hoverbike. "Give it up! We've got you now! The air force is coming after you as we speak, their fighter ships are almost ready to launch!" Ezra taunted, sticking his tongue out as he rammed the side of the car, the mist breaking the engine. Now the armored van had no hope but to fall towards the sea below them.
Elise climbed up and broke open the back door, sending herself in. The enemy, the insects, holding tasers to Winter, holding guns up at her. This was her moment. This was her perfection. This was her time and her place. There was one look in all of their eyes. Fear. "Well." A mist gun emerged in her hand, deadly and ready. "Scared?" Stunned silence as the van continued plummeting. Elise laughed. "Well, you should be." One of the grabbed at Winter desperately. "Don't move! We'll shoot!" Elise laughed again, finding this all to be humorous. "I am well aware Arke requires Winter alive." She lunged then, a spike shooting through the speaker's throat. She twisted and deflected a barrage of bullets using another enemy's body, then struck again, kicking another one out of the door. The room was filled with blood as severed body parts littered the floor of the van. Her hands went around Winter's shoulder. "You are safe now. We will take care of you."
Ezra's bike came up them as they drifted ever closer to the sea. "I got you. Help her behind me, strap her in." Elise helped Winter and secured her safely to the passenger seat. "I'll take her to Oliver's base with the Slithers." Ezra said, getting ready to leave. There was no room for three people on the bike after all. "I will be fine. Mercedes will come pick me up." Elise narrowed her eyes as other armored vans approached from the flanks. "Move quickly, there are more of them coming after us." Ezra nodded, gave her a kiss, then began to fly, whizzing past. Elise needed to distract them as she waited for Mercedes's helicopter to catch up.
The enemies opened fire, no doubt not seeing Ezra's bike as the van had caught fire, emitting smoke from the damage Elise had caused. "That is right. Come a little closer." They did, right into her range. She sent a volley of spikes out at each one, not noticing how each shot was weakning her, making it harder to think. She had used up so much energy, the extra Ezra had given her was becoming dangerously low. She could hear a helicopter coming closer, would they make it on time? The enemies began to fall towards the sea and Elise slumped over, sitting on a clean spot, devoid of blood. She held her head, nausea and dizziness becoming overwhelming. "Elise! Jump!" A voice, Mercedes, sounding so very distant. "We'll catch you!" Her mind was blank. Did she jump? The black eagle had no idea.
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❝I put my arms around myself and I'm unbreakable.❞
【ɗιαƖσgυє cσƖσя:#BDA0CB ♙ тнσυgнт cσƖσя #F7B3DA】
|| Dear Winter || AJR ||
【ɗιαƖσgυє cσƖσя:#BDA0CB ♙ тнσυgнт cσƖσя #F7B3DA】
|| Dear Winter || AJR ||
Her ears were still ringing. Winter lay against the bottom of the truck, guns pointed at her from all sides. The message was clear, she did nto have to hear them to know what they were saying. If she moved, they would shoot. She waited, watching the dust specks on the bottom of the truck rise and fall. She counted the vibrations and closed her eyes. She needed to stay calm. 1...2...3... boom! Winter slid as the truck suddenly swerved, picking up speed. Now! She flicked a finger behind her, a wave of sound smashing one of them against the wall. They were frozen, caught off guard. Winter struggled, receiving a shock right to her spine. She coughed, blood smearing against the ground, her feeling as though it would beat straight out of her chest. Her body could not handle that much electricity, her organs were fragile. Even as an Heir, her human body was not invincible.
"Don't move!" Her hearing was coming back, the ringing subsiding. "Shut up!" She curled into a ball, they were frozen around her. Winter struggled, attempting to remove the cuffs that kept her hands twisted behind her back. She received another shock, her focus having slipped. She coughed up more blood, receiving another, as though to make a point. Blood dripped from her nose, her mouth filling with the taste of copper. She spit it at one of her captors, mouth full of blood. "Don't move!" Winter was kicked in the stomach. She felt a horrible sensation, pain filling her chest. She was dizzy, her head spinning. Her body twitched, she received another round of electric shocks to the base of her spine. "Stop moving!" Her vision was blurring at the edges.
Winter could not fight back, she was stuck, heavily weakened. She could tell something was wrong with her body in the way she had to heave in order to catch her breath. The armored vehicle jerked, it was picking up speed again. How logn did it take to get to the clock tower? Winter wondered as her head spun. Another steep swerve, Winter slid right into the side of the van, one of them using their foot to nudge her back to the center of their guard circle. She coughed up golden blood all over his boots. "Gross," he muttered, turning away as she groaned in pain. Her chest felt as though it were made of fire, her mouth continuing to fill with blood. She couldn't breathe, there were stars in her vision. The truck doors were suddenly thrown open, the vehicle veering off of the road. Someone lifted her up, her voice familiar. "El," Winter smiled, relieved. She coughed, blood spilling down her rumpled shirt.
She limped with Elise's support to Ezra's bike, her head spinning. "El, I-" she stopped, bending over to cough. "Don't try to speak," Ezra strapped her in right behind him. She sat sandwiched between Ezra and Elise, her head leaning on Ezra's back as he drove, her grip around him weak. "Hang in there," he pat one of her hands. He looked back at Elise, they were being chased. Winter turned, gathering up energy in her hands. "Thunder.... clap," she brought her hands together, a sound that broke the barrier carrying out behind them in combination with Elise's wave. "Winter!" She covered her mouth as she coughed, blood dripping between her fingers. Why was there so much of it? A helicopter flew overhead, Mercedes inside of it. Winter looked up, barely able to see anymore. "Elise!" Ezra caught her, throwing her up to Mercedes, who hauled Elise into the helicopter. "You next," he lifted Winter easily, throwing her.
Mercedes caught Winter by the back of her shirt, taking her inside quickly. Winter's vision reduced to needlepoint, someone called her name, telling her to hang in there. Her eyes closed, her head lolling to the side. "Shit," Ezra was the last to arrive, jumping, losing his bike to the chase. Two men pulled him up into the helicopter, flying them towards safety. "Winter? Winter!" Ezra shook her her, trying to get her to wake up. "Stop that, you're not going to help. Lay her on her side for now, we can't do anything until we get to Oli's base." Ezra nodded, laying Winter carefully on her side. He turned towards Elise, checking for a pulse. "She's dead," he went pale. "Yeah, she's dead dummy." Mercedes flicked him in the forehead. "Right, right, I forgot. My bad," he cradled Elise carefully, her head on his lap.
Oliver's house was just up ahead, the helicopter landing in the field behind it. He ran out to meet them, calm as ever. "Did you get them?" Mercedes nodded, "Yeah, but you might want to ring Julian," she carried Winter out, who had blood dripping from her mouth. "I don't know what they did, but it doesn't look good." Oliver cursed under his breath, "Come on." He pulled out a book from his book case, the entire shelf swinging aside to reveal a staircase, which illuminated as they walked down to the sub levels of the Slither's base. Ezra carried Elise, hoping that she would wake up soon. "Welcome back President Oliver," the Slithers greeted them, bowing. "Creepy," Ezra muttered, their faces concealed by their hooded cloaks. "Where's Julian?"
"Right here Oli," he popped his head out of a room. "Ezra, take Elise to room 208 to recover." Ezra nodded, disappearing down the hall. Mercedes carried Winter's limp body into the room, Julian getting to work immediately. Winter had always had a fragile human body. Ever since she was a child, she was prone to injury more often. It didn't help that several of her organs had literally been exploded by the Doc. Her ghost organs were now failing due to the amount of electricity she had taken in. "Damn," Julian took a listen, not finding anything good. "Clear the room," he ordered. This would set them back, surely, but it was a necessary delay. If Winter died, Arke would bring her wrath down upon the Chrysanthemum. Julian got to work immediately, knowing that they hadn't a minute to spare.
"How is she?" Oliver asked, having been pacing nervously. "Alive," Julian replied, "I can't be sure until she wakes-"
She was standing in the doorway, panting, clutching the blanket against her naked chest. "Winter!" Oliver and Julian, yelled in unison. "Get back in bed, you shouldn't be standing!" They both hauled her back onto the bed, Winter not resisting. "Elise," she whispered, her throat sore. "She's fine, she's with Ezra." Oliver reassured her. Winter nodded, passing out once more. "What time is it?" Julian asked, checking the respiratory machine. "Just past midnight, we have a little less than 24 hours until Arke attacks."