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avaTARD
Oct 24, 2011 21:26:22 GMT -5
Post by maya-bird on Oct 24, 2011 21:26:22 GMT -5
It wasn’t really happy ever after.
Nearly two decades since Sozin’s comet, and the peace earned by that fateful showdown has begun to fray at the seams. For some, they enjoyed an immediate turn of fortune toward prosperity—like the Earth Kingdom, newly-restored of all its land, resources, and previously-dethroned kings. Under the tutelage of the Avatar himself, the Southern Air Temple blossomed into a school of aspiring air benders, intent on bringing balance to the elements in the world once again. Even the Water Tribes renewed their kinship and began to recoup the losses in the South Pole.
But not all were happy that the war had ended. The Fire Nation’s economy, crippled by its loss of industry and income from the colonies, struggles even now with civil unrest. People starve, and scores of soldiers feel disenfranchised now that the military no longer plays an instrumental role in the country’s future. There are those – fire benders – who remember the taste and feel of power and what it was to be on top. They hope to reclaim that “glory” again, under the banner of the Original People of the Flame. And there are some who whisper that war is inevitable, that it will always be on the horizon so long as benders maintain control of the world. Behind the guise of freedom, prosperity, even a warped semblance of peace, they call themselves the Jade Shark and are led by the original Freedom Fighter himself, Jet. But Jet couldn't hold it himself, and thus he was struck down by a mysterious leader that has no name. In the dark belly of Ba Sing Se they plot to even the playing field, rumblings aimed to reach every corner of their world—funded by a lucrative slave trade.
No, this is not the “happy ever after” many envisioned when the Phoenix King was defeated. Even that victory is threatened, for after years of waiting and plotting, he was smuggled out of the Boiling Rock and harbored in Shu Jing. Presumed dead to all but the Flame, his daughter is deemed the larger danger now; former princess Azula escaped her padded cell in the palace and slipped away to the Earth Kingdom, leaving a trail of destruction and ashes in her wake. A collaborative effort is underway to find her, but so far success seems as elusive as her rational mind—broken after the Agni Kai with her brother, now Fire Lord Zuko.
Unfortunately, the Fire Nation is not the only source of the world’s problems. An epidemic, birthed from the bowels of Ba Sing Se and the rebels therein, struck the city of walls and secrets full force. The population was decimated, the king himself rendered comatose, only recently showing signs of recovery to bolster the failing morale of the people. A quarantine segregated the three tiers even more, but too late. The plague has already spread to the north and west, with more cases reported daily. With no cure in sight, all healers can do is stem the tide, alleviate suffering, and pray for the best.
All hope, however, is not lost. Terrible as they may be, the events of recent months have sparked a universal cooperation of the nations unlike anything since the war. And while there’s been cause for heartache and pain along the way, there was also cause for joy. The Lady Ursa was restored to her home and family; Sokka and Suki were finally wed… Perhaps it’s not too far-fetched to believe there is a happy ending in store.
After all, our heroes learned the hard way that destiny is what you make it.
Character Sheet
Name- Aliases- Age- Gender- Main Personality Traits- Element- (If they can bend. If not, leave blank.) Abilities- (Ex. Climber, Swimmer, Cook, etc.) Alliance- Looks- Short History- Likes- Dislikes- Other- (Include what nation they hail from, and which they want to 'win.')
To join you must fill this character sheet out, and since we are going to start in Ba Sing Se, make your introduction paragraph why they are there.
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avaTARD
Oct 28, 2011 19:02:29 GMT -5
Post by icefire on Oct 28, 2011 19:02:29 GMT -5
Name- Ling
Aliases- Fox
Age- 21
Gender- Male
Main Personality Traits- Ling is a weird an exceptionally strange and quirky individual, always seeming friendly and trustworthy of new people. Though his demeanor is not farther from the truth. Ling is a deadly assassin, one with an exceptionally sociopathic streak. His targets are deemed his 'prey' when he's flipped, and he treats them just as the name suggests: Like and animal. Ling is cruel and tortures his targets, where as his rational and icey twin sister is always 'messing up his fun', as he puts it. The two of them hail from the Earth kingdom, yet haven't known their parents for the majority of their lives. They were adopted into the clan of assassins their parents belonged to, yet were set off as soon as they were trained at the ripe age of 15. The 'Yin Yan Twins' (which they were deemed by the multiple authorities trekking them) have been highly successful assassins ever since they were turned loose. Ling could often be described as 'highly volatile' or even 'bipolar.' He goes through serious manic and violent mood swings, and is not to be tampered with. Some may speculate that he even has multiple personalities. Though not even his sister knows for sure, his sexual orientation is bisexual.
Element- He's a fire bender.
Abilities- When he's not skipping around being a merry idiot, he rather enjoys fiddling and practicing with his tools. His tools include barbed throwing needles and knives, which he has been trained to throw with almost 100% accuracy. He has a knack for being quick, though he isn't very flexible. Ling can attempt kung fu forms when needed, but is generally not as physically talented as his sister. Some forms he has a decent hang of include the more offensive tiger, monkey, crane, and dragon forms.
Alliance- He likes hanging around the rebels, but he really doesn't have many alliances with all where he goes and all the people he assassinates for.
Looks- His hair is black and shaggy, usually covering his eyes unless his sister is nitpicking. Being a sixteen year old, his face is covered with the occasional blemish, but other then that is a milky pale. The eyes embedded in his skull are squinted like part of the Asian race, and an olive green color. His grin is fox-like, and his scowl is deadly. The clothes he often wears are red and black, matching his element, though contradicting where he hails from. He generally will wear red, baggy robes (in which he can store multitudes of weapons) that often hangs slightly open above the waist tie, and is cut off just a couple inches underneath where his legs start. Underneath, he wears black pants/leggings.
Short History- His parents were lovers from two different races (earth and fire), and were subsequently assassinated for their treason when he and his sister were seven. Seeing as both of his parents were highly successful assassins, they had many connections. A group of assassins remotely close to them took the two orphans in out of pity, and trained them quiet sufficiently.
Likes- Skipping around like an idiot princess, Smiling, Laughing, Torturing people, Blood
Dislikes- Ignorance, Miscalculation, Goody two shoes, People who laugh at him
Other- He doesn't take sides.
Name- Zi
Aliases- Falcon
Age- 21
Gender- Female
Main Personality Traits- Unlike her identical twin brother, she is rather solemn and blunt. She is an incredibly silent, yet maintains a very intense and imposing air at all times. Even if someone is to get to know her, she'll still seem impartial. Zi tends to hate people by the way the walk and hold their heads, before she even knows them. Being highly judgmental and analytically oriented, she is the half that completes her brother's irrational and happy actions. Her voice is quiet and hoarse, as if she doesn't really talk as often as most people. Zi's actions are always explainable and completely logical. Her calculations are deadly and efficient. As for her relations with her brother, she often nitpicks and attempts to keep him in line. Her attitude towards him is almost that of a strictly fastidious mother. She tells him when to comb his hair, when to straighten his robes, and certainly to watch his language. Though, seeing as he never listens to her, it often results in her quietly seething with frustration.
Element- Earth Bender
Abilities- Her flexibility and agility are both unrivaled. It's almost a taboo, due to earth benders being a bit more stiff and non-flexible. Though, that is not the case with her. She knows several forms of kung fu which I do not care to list, and is a novice chi blocker. She is highly strategic and makes all of their devious duo's plans, which always work until her brother does something completely off track.
Alliance- Her career doesn't allow alliances with a certain nation.
Looks- Being a nearly identical counterpart to her brother, her hair and eyes are also the same color and style. However, she has her own quirks such as her seemingly unblemished and smooth skin, and a bit more feminine face shape. Her chest is nothing modest, only a couple bumps short of a completely flat board. Her clothes are loose dark blue robes, and she often wears her waist length hair in a complex and incredibly neat collection of braids. Though, both her and her brother will adapt that of what looks similar to ninja garb when on a mission.
Short History- Exactly the same as her brothers.
Likes- Night time, Complex tracking (she loves a challenge with her target), Animals, Puzzles
Dislikes- People who piss her off, Untidy things
Other- She hails from the earth kingdom, like her brother. It has been mentioned that she really doesn't have any particular ties with nations because of her career choice, and thinks that they're all arrogant fools.
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avaTARD
Jun 24, 2013 13:44:39 GMT -5
Post by maya-bird on Jun 24, 2013 13:44:39 GMT -5
Name: Kest Aliases: Kestrel Age: 24 Gender: Male Main Personality Traits: -Calm- Kest keeps his calm quite well, with what many would call an avid stoicism. He prefers to keep a professional demeanor whenever possible, and rarely lets anything falter his calm. Recent years of training through the monks of the Northern Air Temple has allowed this control of loose emotions. Lately, though, due to his frustrations, he’s struggled with remaining calm. -Detached- Many would say Kest is reminiscent of the monks in how he’s detached himself from unnecessary wants, but the opposite in how he struggles to find freedom with it. He seeks spiritual enlightenment through detachment, and often isolates himself for days on end. He spent the last few years seeking spiritual enlightment isolated from society, and is crushed that he cannot find what he seeks. He still adopts detachment, for it gets him closest to enlightenment. -Keen- Kest is possesses a sharp mind and quick wit, able to analyze situations quickly and without doubt. He is intelligent and often uses his wit to talk his way out of many situations—avoiding unnecessary conflict. Kest loves to exercise his mind and reads as often as he can. -Driven- He is very driven. This can make him surly and unable to be around as of late, because many only see him a spiritual nut who strives for enlightenment. Nowadays, he’s adopted many negative traits that go along with his driven nature, such as disregards for the feelings of others as he pursues his dreams. He can also be thought of as selfish, devoured by his need for spiritual freedom. -Spiritual- Spirituality is a big part of Kest’s life. Though he cannot seem to achieve enlightenment, he still adheres to the spiritual ties of airbending. He’s not completely a by-the-book airbender, as he’s no longer affiliated with the Northern Air Temple, but he tries his best. He owns airbender prayer beads and will often embrace solitude in order to embrace spirituality. Element: Air Abilities: -Agile- Due to him being an airbender, Kest is light on his feet and moves gracefully. Aided with his bending, Kest is quick-footed and agile, and can easily dodge and avoid conflict. Though he strives to avoid fights and physical confrontation, he’s adept in this field. -Silver-tongued- With his quick-wit and intelligence, Kest can be rather silver-tongued. Though he prefers not to talk much, he uses this charisma with words to talk his way out of sticky situations. -Airbending- Kest is nearly a master airbender. In his solitude, he’s mastered the thirty-four of the thirty-six tiers of airbending and is widely proficient in all but a few. He’s yet to create his own move, and is currently struggling with the last two tiers because of his unfocused demeanor as of late. Alliance: Though he doesn’t have a specific cause to be fighting for, he’s aligned with the Air nation because of his history there. He will defend and attempt to prevent conflict with the Air nation. Looks: Kest is fairly tall and lean, with high cheekbones and blue eyes reminiscent of frost. He had shaved his head, but after fleeing the temple let his hair grow to a suitable length. He keeps his inky black hair cropped short for convenience, though is rather in need of a haircut as of late. He sometimes sports the traditional cloaks, robes and shawls of the Air nomads when he visits the temple—rarely. His usual attire is loose faded brown trousers and a yellow-collared undershirt. He dons a hooded cloak and a staff, but rarely uses the staff—it doubles as a glider. Short History: Kest is not from the Northern Air Temple. The monks adopted him at age seven, gleeful when they discovered their new addition in ranks was a novice airbender. He remembers nothing from before the temples and is clueless to his origins, only noting his different take to airbending than the others. While they achieved bending through spiritual freedom, Kest achieved through mastery of skill. He still believed in the airbenders philosophies: respect for all life and the avoidance of conflict, but could not free his mind and soul from earthly troubles. When told--at the age of sixteen--that his origins were unknown, Kest began attributing his troubles to this. As the years past, he became unfocused and emotional, and could not seem to quell his emotions in time of need. With regret, he fled the Air Temple and sought his own personal freedom. With the tensions boiling under the surface of society, Kest now seeks enlightenment more than ever, so that he can help prevent the upcoming conflict. He still wants knowledge of his past, and now thinks he will never achieve spiritual freedom without this knowledge. Likes: Kest isn’t very particular about what he likes. He likes happiness, solitude, airbending, and Sath. Though he wouldn’t reveal, he also has a peculiar liking for freshly baked pastries. Dislikes: He isn’t one to dislike something out of spite, but does dislike the fact that he can’t achieve spiritual enlightenment. Kest isn’t one to judge on sight, but doesn’t prefer the company of arrogant people or killers. Other: He’s nicknamed ‘Kestrel’ because he’s often seen with a small kestrel he calls Sath. Whenever he’s in public, he stages himself as a falconer, and therefore keeps Sath around. He knows he’s not to become attached to worldly beings, but he’s made an exception with Sath. Kest saved her from a circus, where she performed tricks and was treated poorly. In return, Sath will usually come with a whistle and regards Kest as another bird. He’s also called “Kestrel” since his name, Kest, is already close to the word.
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avaTARD
Jun 24, 2013 19:09:08 GMT -5
Post by maya-bird on Jun 24, 2013 19:09:08 GMT -5
Wind chimes rattled softly as a breeze wisped through an alleyway in Ba Sing Se. Soon the wind grew aggressive, shaking and choking the chimes until they screeched sporadically. Kest dismissed it with a wave of his hand. An unnatural breeze wafted in reverse, calming the chimes so they tinkled quietly, and he looked to the sky. A perpetual green haze seemed to hang over this part of the city, and he wondered what he was doing in Ba Sing Se instead of out in the countryside, where the air was clean.
He turned quickly into the street, evading a man carrying a crate of squawking chickens. The streets were bustling with activity; men and women of all ages performing nondescript tasks that he would rather have not paid attention to. With a quick step to the left, then another to the right, he felt as if avoiding collision was a sort of dance. Two steps forward—one step back to avoid a courier—five steps to the right to dodge into a small shop laced with an earthly smell.
Kest inhaled, loving the muggy smell of dirt and plant life. He’d only been in Ba Sing Se for three days now and he was already messing the countryside. With a sigh, he plucked a jasmine flower from a display and ran the tip of his finger along a petal, admiring its beauty. It made a great tea, too, he noted dully. He placed the flower gently back onto the display and picked up a bundle, walking over to the counter.
“Hello there,” A man said cheerily. He donned the traditional greens and yellows of the Earth Kingdom, and adjusted the glasses perched on the crook of his nose. “Looking to buy?"
Kest nodded, placing the bundle on the wooden counter along with the appropriate amount of coins. “Yes.” He rarely talked anymore, and his voice sounded raspy and unused. Strange, almost.
“Jasmine, lovely.” The clerk said. “ The tea is phenomenal.” He wrapped the bundle in paper and handed it to Kest with an expectant smile.
“Quite so.” Kest agreed, conjuring up a small smile for the clerk. “Thanks.”
“You’re welcome.” The clerk called as Kest left the shop.
Kest looked to the sky again, crinkling his nose, and tucked the jasmine away in his cloak. He whipped around into the alley way and made his way across the city to the inn he was staying at. He took the stairs two at a time until he reached the last room on the right of the second floor; for now it was his home. He placed the jasmine bundle and his remaining coins in a drawer, then folded his cloak and laid it on the bed. When he was tucked away on the balcony of the inn, he whistled.
After a few minutes, a similar call was returned. In a blur of motion, a kestrel landed on the balcony, regarding him idly. She twittered and hopped closer to Kest, who handed her lychee nut. Sath whistled in contentment and allowed him to remove the note tied to her ankle without fuss.
Kest unfolded the note calmly, and regarded the writing inside coolly. The information is available, it read, for a price. Money is nothing, he thought, and let a smile grace his face. Enlightenment was only a few days away. He would finally know who he was; his origins.
Suddenly he felt chilled to the bone, and whipped around to see a figure eyeing him calmly. He kept his face clean of emotions, but loosed a quiet greeting. It was not returned. The figure was close to him, but he couldn’t discern the gender of the person; their silence offered no aid either.
“Name your price.” Kest offered, and let his composure slip a little, excitement slipping into his voice. “I’ve got access to all sorts of coin.”
“Coin is unnecessary. We require a favor, one only you can pull off.” The voice was distinctly female, if he detected the pitch correctly.
“Anything.” He realized his voice sounded too earnest, and exhaled, calming himself. “Tell me.”
“Understand this. Once you’re privy to the information, you will be endured to complete the task. Not completing the task will result in,” Though her face was masked, he felt her gaze. “Elimination.”
“Tell me.” Kest repeated, aiming for a dull tone one could deduce nothing from.
“You’re to eliminate,” that word again, he stifled a sigh, “this target.”
Kest’s self-control broke as she handed him the paper. His eyebrows arched and his mouth twitched in a semblance of anger. This was impossible. He couldn’t do this. “Leave.” He said, letting venom ooze into his words. “Leave now!”
His raised voice spooked Sath, and she screeched, hopping away from him. The hooded women didn’t react, only repeated. “Not completing the task will result in elimination.”
He struggled to compose himself. Breathe in, breathe out. Breathe in, out. Calm, calm. Kest pinched his nose between his forefinger and thumb. Calm…calm. He huffed out an angry breathe. “This is…this is a contract.” Kest straightened himself. “I’m not an assassin.” He exhaled loudly. “I am not an assassin.” He repeated. “If you want this contract completed, you can contact an assassin.”
The shrouded women didn’t flinch, but he sensed her voice edged thin. “If you want that information, you will complete this contract. Or you will be eliminated…assassinated.” She proffered.
With a sudden twinge of uncontrolled anger, he inhaled, and then exhaled with a breath of wind. The shrouded figure was knocked back against the wall of the inn, and slumped to the ground. Sath had long flown away, and a crumbled chunk of the wall slipped down onto the figure, who groaned.
Enraged, Kest quickly gathered his belongings, from his cloak to the newly purchased jasmine, and glided down from the balcony.
“They can try!” Kest called up to the figure, which—he figured—was glaring down at him. She coughed, then shouted in rage and leapt down from the balcony, landing smoothly on the balls of her feet. By that time, Kest had already fled from her sight.
With a sly smirk, the shrouded figure dropped her hood. She’d get her best assassins on this man—Kest. He’d soon be removed from her sight, forever.
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avaTARD
Jun 24, 2013 21:30:07 GMT -5
Post by icefire on Jun 24, 2013 21:30:07 GMT -5
Zi perched herself atop the building, legs squatted. The wind and the sun was at her back, and she felt truly at peace. Her brain was allowed to wander as she thought of strategic battle plans in her head. Everything was as she wanted it--er, almost, she needed the nature-- as she gracefully sat atop the tallest building in Ba Sing Se. She closed her eyes, allowing herself a small smile while-
A loud crash came from behind her. She whipped around to see her brother grinning with an open mouth and gracelessly fallen atop a pile of crates. Face twisting into a distasteful scowl, she barked a couple of horse words at him, "Will you stop being an idiot for one second so I can relax?!"
He adorned his usual foxy grin, "Whatever you say, sis."
She kneaded the tips of her fingers into her temples and turned back around, eyes closed and brows furrowing in irritation. Letting her muscles relax again, she thought about why she was here. They had been dropped a line that they may need an assassination, and this is where they would be meeting the woman if she ever decided to show up. The inconsiderate bitch had long since missed her appointment time with them (a shocking thirty minutes late), but Zi never turned up and opportunity for business. More business meant more money which meant they could buy things they needed. Of course, they could always steal what they needed without any trouble. Yet... Some ounce of humanity inside Zi didn't want her to.
Another noise came from behind her, softer this time. She turned around, already scowling. Though, her face relaxed when she saw it wasn't her twerp of a brother this time. A woman cloaked shadily in black robes stood, the only facial feature available being her small smile.
Zi straightened up and formally held out her hand, "Zi. And that's my idiot brother, Ling." she eyed him, "I take it you're our client?"
The woman rumbled laughter in her throat, "Yes, that's correct. You may refer to me as Kuang." She released Zi's hand, "I have a favor to ask of you. Of course, a paid favor. I need you to assassinate a young man named Kest."
Zi nodded, "Alright. Is there anything we need to take into consideration? Is he potentially dangerous?"
Kuang maintained her mysterious smile, "He's an airbender. That is all."
Zi's eyes widened uncharacteristically for a moment, before she corrected herself, "Alright, we'll be charging you for that. That would be 200 gold pieces, please."
She handled collecting the money, and then connected glances with Ling. They both seemed to be thinking it, 'An airbender?' This didn't seem right at all. Airbenders were nearly extinct as it was.
Zi bowed to Kuang as she exited, "The deed will be done and we'll report to you, ma'am."
She cut in, "Oh, reporting won't be necessary. Just get it done." And with that, she was gone down the stairwell. Zi thought this to be odd.
Stretching, she popped her back and looked to Ling, "Alright, you know the program."
He smiled once again, "Yea sis, scout for this 'Kest' figure, got it. I'll handle the intel and talking to people. I mean, I love talking!" He enthusiastically threw his arms up in the air with a toothy grin.
Zi sighed exasperatedly. Sometimes, she swore, her brother was still 4 rather than 21.
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avaTARD
Jun 24, 2013 21:51:02 GMT -5
Post by maya-bird on Jun 24, 2013 21:51:02 GMT -5
Kest evaded the shrouded women, considering her threat, and found himself a perch on a decent rooftop near the outer wall of Ba Sing Se. Though quite tall and looming, he was half considering fleeing back to the Northern Air Temple. Not half considering—he was definitely considering. Kest unfolded the contract again, looking solemnly at the familiar figure etched there.
The likeness of Monk Taritzu stared back at him, eyes piercing even on paper. He could barely contain himself, running his fingers over the bounty—unbelievable—and the words plastered large; wanted dead. Kest couldn’t think of any reasons why anyone, anywhere, could want Taritzu to be assassinated. There weren't any reasons on the contract, merely a bounty, and Kest exhaled quietly, making a decision.
There wasn’t anyone he could ever assassinate Taritzu, anybody for that matter. He couldn’t count on himself to forgo his beliefs and take a life for information. Knowledge from a faulty source, no. He folded the contract and slipped it into his robe, then stood with his glider in hand. It was definite; he needed to go to the Northern Air Temple.
Kest leaped vertically, then twirled his glider so it the membranes were open to air currents. He glided quickly to the wall, then landed deftly, staring solemnly at the city. It was wreathe in a haze, and looked sickly. He’d heard of the plague, but wasn’t particularly concerned at the moment, for he had more dire threats on his mind.
You’ll be eliminated.
Kest squared his shoulders, composed his face, and stared blankly at the sprawling city before him. He turned his head to gaze longingly into the horizon—blanketed by a beautiful sunset—and then glanced back to see guards dashing towards him.
Oh, right. Citizens weren’t allowed on the walls.
He forged a smile, putting his hands up as the men surrounded him. “I was just leaving.” He said, jumping from the wall and twirling his glider to come land with a soft thump. He glanced up to see the guards waving fists at him, and then decided he get provisions and a mount in Ba Sing Se. That would be quicker than fumbling around for provisions when he hungered. Kest leaped from the wall and landed back in the city, making his way back to the merchants corridors. He'd make this fast.
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avaTARD
Jun 24, 2013 22:30:11 GMT -5
Post by icefire on Jun 24, 2013 22:30:11 GMT -5
Ling grinned as he swaggered around downtown, near the merchants. Along with the money, the lady called Kuang had also handed his stoic twin a paper with a printed description of Kest. She even had scribbled what seemed to be a strangely accurate height. Though, Ling had long ago just decided not to even think about the strangeness of most of their clients. He had given up when they met someone who wanted a man assassinated for destroying his cabbages.
He walked with a bounce in his step through the merchant district, looking at all of the street vendors and shops. His keen eyes searched the crowd with almost a predatory air, looking for this Kest man.
Ling was almost ready to give up and turn back, but his eyes caught something. A man in brighter robes than the earthy tones of this kingdom. Keeping his happy facade, he stalked towards the man like a highly tuned predator. He took a moment to eye his sister skulking in the shadows, making sure she was watching him. As soon as he reached the man, he tapped him on the shoulder, a highly believable kind look on his features, "Do you need help with something, sir?"
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avaTARD
Jun 24, 2013 22:58:17 GMT -5
Post by maya-bird on Jun 24, 2013 22:58:17 GMT -5
Kest ambled towards a merchants stall, purchasing a slight looking pack that’d be easy to fit a few days of supplies in. He was quick in purchasing dried fruit and some bananas, and a water skin. This would work until he could scrape together some fresher food. Sometimes his vegetarian preference was inconvenient, this being one of the times. After he’d finished purchasing victuals, a sleeping roll, a water skin and a few other necessities, he set to finding a mount.
He hooked the bag onto his back, then promptly decided he had no clue where to purchase a mount. Normally he would have gone for the common ostrich horse, but he was had a need for speed. He didn’t have access to an air bison, and searched through his mind for a good mount. He settled on eel hound when somebody tapped him on his shoulder.
A younger man with shaggy black hair and olive drab eyes smiled warmly at him. Kest turned half way towards the man, regarding him with avid stoicism. He didn’t know who to trust now—elimination, remember?—and slanted the man a cool look. Then again, he did need to know where eel hounds were sold—wait a second.
The man was orientated towards the alley, where he could barely make out a shadowy form. Kest narrowed his eyes. “No.” His voice held no indication of suspicion, but his eyes darted to the shadows again, portraying his thoughts.
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avaTARD
Jun 24, 2013 23:49:07 GMT -5
Post by icefire on Jun 24, 2013 23:49:07 GMT -5
As soon as Kest's eyes shifted to the shadows suspiciously, Ling knew the jig was up. He kept up his kind facade, "Alright, you just looked a little lost in thought. I like helping people, unlike most in this city." He continued to grin, "I'll just leave you to it then."
The streets were too crowded for this, they'd have to get this man alone. He walked off in the opposite direction than of where his sister was in the shadows, as to perhaps keep him less suspicious. Ling looped around a couple of buildings before easily scaling one and finding his sister now perched atop it in her assassin clothing. Her eyes glinted from underneath the scarf wrapped around the rest of her facial features while her hair hung in a free ponytail, catching in the wind, "We need to wait for this guy to clear out of here, because that looks like what he's gonna do. Sis, can you keep an eye on him while I get changed?"
She nodded, and he grinned at her, "Excellent."
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avaTARD
Jun 25, 2013 0:00:06 GMT -5
Post by maya-bird on Jun 25, 2013 0:00:06 GMT -5
“I’ll just leave you to it then.”
“Yes.” Kest said, then turned on his heel and into the crowd. A chilled feeling made him glance all around, surveying the rooftops and alleyways he could see from where he was. Deciding he desperately needed that eel hound now, he walked up to the closest man and set about to questioning him.
Surprisingly, the man nodded and pointed in the direction of a less crowded stall manned by an elderly woman. After a few moments of awkward conversation, on Kest’s part, he negotiated a deal, and the women smiled deftly at him. “Your eel hound is in the stables outside the city. Just tell them Hara sent you and you’ll be fine.”
Kest nodded. “Thanks.” He said lightly, loping away from the crowd. That was the last of his coin, and now he needed to leave. The chilly feeling grew, and Kest kept himself from running and glancing around knowingly. He needed the element of surprise—defensive tactic. He rushed quickly to the outer edge of the city, luckily the gates were open, people hustling through.
He glanced over his shoulder once, then disappeared towards the stables. The man there gave him no trouble, and gestured to the stall farthest to the right. Kest peeked his head in, and a mix between a bark and a hiss greeted him. The eel hound was already saddled, and Kest stretched his fingers to touch the hound’s muzzle. It didn’t attack, so he slipped his pack off and placed it in the saddle bag.
Kest glanced around the corner, and realized he’d left his glider leaning against outer wall, near the man at the stables. He nearly groaned, but composed himself and aimed to calmly make his way towards the stable master without looking paranoid.
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avaTARD
Jun 25, 2013 13:41:01 GMT -5
Post by icefire on Jun 25, 2013 13:41:01 GMT -5
Ling promptly was changed, and they set off to quietly stalk the man. Over walls, through alleys, careening from rooftop to rooftop, they did all of these things to stay hidden yet still not lose him. Eventually, he went through the gate. They both paused for a minute, as not to rouse any suspicion of following so closely behind him, and then passed through the gargantuan gates of the Earth Kingdom city. As soon as they got out, they stealthily sprinted over the rocks along side the road leading from the city.
They were soon hot on his tracks again, and abruptly halted when they realized he was at the stables, grabbing an eel hound. Ling and Zi both looked to each other. If they were going to get this man, they needed to end him before he got the speed. Well, they could buy an eel hound and pursue him, but that would be difficult and unnecessary.
Zi eyed the taller, older man from their hidden perch. He was skulking around, and he had left his glider on the wall back towards the stable master and seemed to know it. Well, this was a predicament. They may be seen by the stable warden, or he may run off before they got him. She knew that they only would have one moment to strike: When he was alone after coming back from retrieving his glider.
She bent backwards to convey this message to her brother in a hushed whisper, and then turned back to Kest, watching intently. He seemed to be walking with almost a forced kind of calm. Ah, this man new he was in danger. Some sadistic part of her that she depraved almost made her want to purr at his fear. That was Ling's thing though, not hers, so she kept a level head and waited for the opportune moment to strike.
Kest grabbed his staff, and started trekking back to the stable. She was waiting. The stable master was turning to go back into his cabin. The door closed--Kest walked closer--and the light from the doorway was cut. She sprung swiftly.
Ling had already had his needles prepared. Zi pounced, and he shot three needles in what seemed like no time at all, all of which zoomed straight towards their with deadly precision.
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avaTARD
Jun 25, 2013 22:53:33 GMT -5
Post by maya-bird on Jun 25, 2013 22:53:33 GMT -5
Kest could feel himself being watched. As he retrieved his glider and trekked back to the waiting eel hound, he was silently preparing himself. First things first—keep a level head. Don’t panic, don’t over-correct, nothing of that sort. Secondly, react. React precisely and without delay. He steeled himself as he picked up a rustle, followed by two figures blurring towards him.
With what seemed like inhuman speed, the first procured three needles and flung them towards him. Kest relaxed himself, and responded within the second; exhaling sharply and whipping his glider open in front of him. The needles stuck in the membranes—a shame, really—but did the job. Kest sidestepped the second figure and propelled himself backwards with a well placed blast of air, purposely slamming into the stall gate of the eel hound.
The hound’s shrill call would hopefully alert the stable master, and spook the assassins.
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avaTARD
Jun 25, 2013 23:26:39 GMT -5
Post by icefire on Jun 25, 2013 23:26:39 GMT -5
Zi almost smirked at the man's vain attempt at what seemed to be trying to alert the stable master. What he didn't understand was that the man was probably most used to the hound making noises, as it was not an uncommon thing for animals to do. She barreled almost straight into him, flipping around into a snake pose and doing a crafty twirl kick under him in attempt to get him down.
Meanwhile, Ling approached leisurely, a devious glint in his eyes and a foxy grin across his lips. He was a bit irritated that the man had blocked all of his perfect shots with his glider, yet a bit impressed. It took skills to be that reflexive. The skill of an air bender. He knew his weapons would become useless here, so tucked them back into his sleeves.
He flicked his wrist and a flame lit in his palm, dancing sporadically in the slight breeze. Yet, he hung back. His sister would be irritated if he interfered with what was obviously her kill. Ling watched intently as she fluidly dropped into a snake kung fu stance and attempted to knock him over.
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avaTARD
Jun 25, 2013 23:39:59 GMT -5
Post by maya-bird on Jun 25, 2013 23:39:59 GMT -5
He silently cursed, but kept his calm demeanor. Of course the stable master would pay no heed to the shrill call of the eel hound; it was the norm. The closest figure whirled into the snake stance and struck at him with deadly precision. She struck her target, for Kest slammed onto the ground, the air whooshing from his lungs.
Amateur. Kest cursed himself, rolling quickly to the side and to his feet in one fluid move. These people are going to kill you, and they’re practiced. He regarded them with a glint of respect in his eyes—they knew what they were doing—so he better know too.
Kest balanced himself, remembering the basics. He hadn’t fought anybody this formidable in a long time, and quickly recalled what he learned so many years ago. Mind your footwork, and keep moving. Circular movements—don’t let them land a blow. Follow the path of least resistance. He eyed the two warily, arms outstretched, light on his feet.
He simply needed to mount the eel hound—nothing could outrun one. Distraction—distract them. “You’re good.” Kest kept his voice light, just like his feet. His voice was raspy, unused. “Though if you were remarkable, I would’ve been dead back in the merchants square.” Get a reaction, then dodge and whirl, coil and uncoil.
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avaTARD
Jun 25, 2013 23:49:36 GMT -5
Post by icefire on Jun 25, 2013 23:49:36 GMT -5
She caught his eye, for briefly a second, and smirked as a response. Zi knew better than to take his bait. She slid around at almost the speed of lightning, going for a dragon style hold. Secretly she wondered why he wasn't using his airbending, as she speedily got him into the headlock. She whispered hoarsely into his ear, "Don't move, or I'll drop you. I don't really want to kill you."
Ling looked at her and that statement, cocking his head to the side and his grin fading, "Sister, what do you mean? We were assigned to him. If you can't take care of him I definitely have a few methods avai-"
Zi cut him off in a hiss, "No, I don't want to kill this man because I had a bad feeling about that shady woman. And additionally, I don't think killing an airbender is such a good idea. They're too close to extinct, so it's too immoral as a fellow bender to do that."
Ling smirked at her, "Whatever, says the one who's killed hundreds of people ruthlessly and not flinched a single time. I just think you're squeami-"
"Hush!" She hissed out breathily, "Just listen to me when I say I have a bad feeling about this."
Her eyes turned back to the man grasped in her headlock, ''I don't know what that woman wanted from you, but you best know that we're going to find out." She tightened her grip a little for emphasis.
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