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Post by Juni on Jul 11, 2021 15:22:55 GMT -8
The fairy informed her that cut flowers were appreciated and she helped herself without question. If she was an ordinary earthling, she would have the decency to thank their host for the meal, but since she was a fairy of nature it only made sense that she helped herself like any ordinary butterfly would.
Valentus made it clear that the daily updates were not fast enough for his heroism. The room grew deafening quiet with Juniper and Chardonnay responding to his words with nothing to add. It was at this point that her cobalt eyes changed crimson red to read the hero’s chakras and she noticed he was internally nervous about something despite the confidence in his voice.
Juniper looked over to Chardonnay to read her chakras, she sensed the concern for this man, and the fear for her brother being engaged in combat at this exact moment.
The red hue remained when she looked over to a black octopus hovered into the room to help clear off the table.
“Would you all like a spot of floral tea, as well?” The Dandelion Tea Princess smiled then turned to Valentus, “The Pig Demon Duchies have been oppressed for centuries, as landowners with titles, it is our independent responsibility to protect the weak with help from our appointed vassals. Monsters, demons, and anything that comes out of Baba Yaga’s black forest domain threaten the lives of the innocent daily. As a result we build walls around villages and keep our power levels at maximum to prevent the common threat from drawing near. It is also our responsibility to appoint an heir of the title, training them since birth, to resume protecting the territory. It is because of this territorial foundation that there are presently not any namekians invading the mainland of the western lands.”
After a beat she continued, as she poured out tea for everyone with the help of Hachi, and she bowed her head at her silent octopi companion to thank him
“While our fiefdom does not extend to the Northern Lands, we’re taking it upon ourselves to clear out the namekian horde that has gripped the coastal border, in the hopes that we can reach the northern islands. My husband is simply following the golden rule of taking up the responsibility without being asked by the The Crane Hermits who are charged with the protection of this region.”
Once she finished her explaining the lifestyle she endured along with the Baroness in their homeland she looked directly at Valentus, her eyes still the color of crimson, and she smiled widely, “What motivates you to be a hero, Valentus-san? Are you compensating over a dark past?”
Juniper hit the nail on the head.
[452] [2,336]
Chardonnay Valentus
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Post by Valentus on Jul 12, 2021 7:49:05 GMT -8
In response to Valentus' explanation of his activities, Juniper continued with her side of the story - according to her, the Dukes and Duchesses such as her fulfill the duty of protecting their subjects from the descendants of Demon King Piccolo. Their fiefdoms construct walls around villages, ward off monsters and raiding parties, and do everything in their power to ensure that peace reigns supreme everywhere, much like travelling heroes like him.
It was quite similar to the ancient days of the Tuffle race, from which the princely House of Nectarine originated from so long ago - and, in fact, had Juniper not continued speaking, he would have certainly tried to draw the similarity, or even commend the woman and her husband for doing their part. Instead, however, she did speak, and touched upon a topic which immediately left the Tuffle lost in deep thought. Not only in thinking on what truly motivated him to do something like this, but how he could... formulate it to two women who, as far as Valentus was aware, had no reason to even know of the existence of the Tuffle race.
"To answer your question - a-and what miss Chardonnay asked just a bit ago... no, my past hasn't been exactly great." The young girl was wondering on what Valentus' decision to become a hero meant regarding the people he left - were they safe from danger, meaning that he could safely leave their fold and provide aid to the rest? Well... Depending on what one means by "safety", that might actually be true. The Tuffles certainly put a lot of effort into ensuring that they are threatened as little as humanly possible by anything from outside - but that did not mean it was a life worth living, or a moral one.
"I was born with the intent of becoming a weapon, and all the superhuman strength I have is because of me being trained and modified with that intent," Valentus began explaining, speaking more slowly than usual, aiming to be more careful with his words. "But I could not live with that. I can't... tell much about them, but my guardians, and my people, work for a goal which I believe will bring us to ruin - or lead to the deaths of millions of innocent people. When I escaped their grasp, I chose the career of a hero as a way to grapple with this heritage, and try to build myself an identity of my own."
Valentus took a sip from his cup of floral tea. "...and something I want to dedicate my life to."
(429 words, total 2887)
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Post by Chardonnay on Jul 13, 2021 20:18:32 GMT -8
After their hearty meal, the host offered a tea session next; a black octopus hovered over to help the princess clear off the table. Chardonnay glanced over to Juniper and noticed her eyes turned red this time, the sudden change was not new to her, she had seen Sakuya's irises turned into the same color many times before, yet there was something about the Princess that made her feel uneasy right this moment… Perhaps, it was that she realized the older demon was reading into her feelings, and she couldn’t hide the anxiety that was bothering her being far from her brother and the concern for the stranger she was with at the comfort of the Juniper's home. The tea was served; the warm, somewhat bitter taste of the floral tea made its way down her throat, which also helped her to relax. Sakuya remained seated, silently observing everyone as they enjoyed the conversation. Juniper then continued to tell tales about the Pig Demon Duchies, and the reason why they were at the northern border. It was for the same reason the baroness joined her brother and the Bossa Nova twins, yet with her experience climbing the snowy mountain, she began to form doubts whether she could really be of use to the trio, or even to the allies in the coast protecting the territory. This time, Valentus responded to their host's inquiry about his motivation for becoming a valiant hero, thus confessing a dark past. Chardonnay widened her eyes at the revelation as the confident and cheerful tone of the traveller shifted into a sad and melancholic voice. Somehow, the little girl could identify with the foreigner, his sheer determination to fight his destiny was something to look up to. “I believe in you, Mr. Valentus. I am sure one day, you would be the great hero you aspire to be,” the baroness declared, placing her warm hands over Valentus’ unconsciously. Only after a few seconds did she become aware of her gestures, and she blushed at her own actions, “I-I am sorry, I didn’t mean to…” she said in defense, lowering her gaze in embarrassment. [360/2316] Juni Valentus
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Post by Juni on Jul 13, 2021 22:16:42 GMT -8
“I see.” Juniper reflected, knowing fully well that Valentus was telling half truths, and she continued, “The Pig Demon duchies are bound by honor. If an enemy wishes to surrender in exchange for their reforged loyalty we accept them as allies. However, if they refuse to be integrated into our society then they can choose to end their own lives to prove their loyalty to their former leader. So your desertion is not questionable in the slightest by me or Baroness Chardonnay since you have chosen to live honorably. You would make a good vassal but it seems you’re on a different quest for redemption, Valentus-san.”
With another sip of the floral tea, the warm liquid was soothing, and she demurely placed the ceramic cup on the table.
“Your life may be in danger before you can forge your own path in life. I recommend finding allies who share your vision. I have been blessed by allies who genuinely care about my well being regardless of the circumstances we are faced with together. The world is still a dangerous place even if my husband and I remove Piccolo Daimao from his position. It is only the beginning of our troubles as a united faction.”
The blessed allies in question were not of good alignment in the slightest, Misaki murdered a teenager for destroying half a forest, in which she was not remotely remorseful over, and Juniper was completely understanding of the circumstances that were presented when the greenette recounted it. As a vassal, it was part of the gardener’s duty to protect the territory, and was honor bound to remove a single life from existence to preserve the lives of many trees. Maxine was also honor bound by the Shinobu clan, offering her assistance to the Dandelion Clan if her schedule permitted, and was otherwise recognized as a ronin who served other Duchies in exchange for zeni it seemed. At no point did Juniper make a point to ask the android her motivations since she was already programmed to follow orders.
While Juniper was familiar with the troubles between Saiyans and Tuffles it was bad for business to choose a side. In essence, their collective moral alignment relied entirely on zeni, and making fair decisions when necessary as long as it did not interrupt their way of life; which was not entirely a peaceful one. While her husband Koma was half Saiyan, it remained unclear if he was particularly racist, as a samurai bound by honor it was likely that he made no distinction.
Chardonnay finally spoke, only for a moment, hopeful that Valentus would make his dream come true except her choice of words made it seem like he was yet to begin fulfilling his role. While it was not her intention to be rude, she realized it too late, and immediately excused her poor choice of words. The Dandelion Princess felt the same way, to be a hero you must already be one, rather than inspire to be savior. It was the same idiom of writing rather than claiming to be a writer. However, she realized too late that the nine year old's discomfort stemmed from the physical contact of a nearly expired Tuffle in an attempt to comfort him as inappropriate.
Hachi began to flex his tentacles.
“Ah, I apologize.” Juniper bowed her head apologetically to Hachi, “This is my companion Hachi and he offers his greetings to you all.” [571] [2,907] Chardonnay Valentus
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Post by Valentus on Jul 15, 2021 0:16:30 GMT -8
Both Juniper and Chardonnay understood Valentus' point, and accepted his story. The Princess compared it to the honor bound rules of the Pig Demon Duchies and then stated that if one were to follow them, then they would find no problem with his decision. If he chose to live honorably and thus could not remain in the service of his overlord, then it was right for him to defect. He wouldn't have described it as "honor", himself - sure, it was certainly honorable to come to the aid of those in need, but it wasn't the word which swirled in his mind when trying to describe his motivation. Justice, maybe, or setting things right in the world. Change.
"Yeah, I would rather find my niche all by myself," the Tuffle answered, and nodded when Juniper continued about the need to find allies in this day and age - assuring that she has gathered a party which will be able to aid her and her husband in the coming conflict. "Well, I have already found two, haven't I? I'm sure we'll be able to come to each other's aid when we meet each other again from now on - at least, I will certainly have to find a way to thank your kindness today, miss Juniper."
Chardonnay was certainly enthused by his story, staring Valentus dead in the eye, holding his hands and assuring him that he will achieve his aspirations. He smiled softly at the encouragement, only for his expression to turn more confused when Chardonnay suddenly withdrew and began apologizing.
"Didn't mean to do what?" the Tuffle asked, unsure of what happened. Was it her touch of his hands that left her worried? It got him to look down at his palms, briefly inspecting them. Maybe she was able to release poison into the bloodstream of her opponents via physical touch, or steal their soul, and was afraid she accidentally activated her powers... but his hands appeared to be fine. He didn't feel anything odd, either, except that her hands were warm and soft.
Might as well dissuade her worries, maybe?
"If you're concerned about me, then don't worry, I feel fine!" Valentus said with a smile.
Juniper, meanwhile, drew their attention to her octopod partner, which she introduced as Hachi. An odd little thing... but fairly adorable. Valentus offered a smile and briefly raised his hand as a non-verbal greeting. Paizu, who finally pulled herself out of the flower she was feeding in, was more harsh and called out:
"By the gods, what is that thing? Does it want to eat me?"
(431 words, total 3318)
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Post by Chardonnay on Jul 16, 2021 4:24:22 GMT -8
Juniper’s statement was still somewhat beyond the baroness' understanding of how the world works. While she was familiar with pain, and suffering, and had a taste of the bitter outcome of wars and strife and never-ending hatred, she still had to learn what it means to live honorably, or righteously. The complicated way of life of adulthood was still too much for her young mind. However, if there was something she could take out of what the Princess said, it was to form allies, or friends, if she would use her own term. Surely, no person would dare hurt anyone they care about, rather, they would do anything to protect and fight for them. If anyone could be friends, perhaps, the world will become a better place. Of course, she understood the advice was meant for Valentus, still… who knows, she might find it useful later on. The orange-haired guest agreed with the princess and declared that he already found two in the person of the Juniper and Chardonnay. The baroness smiled, while her vassal expressed that she too concurred with the hero’s thoughts, raising both of her hands in agreement. While the little girl held Valentus’ hands, it didn’t mean anything to her, it was an abrupt response to her admiration at his bravery, and she admitted having been careless being too expressive. “I-I just thought it was kinda inappropriate to hold h-hands with a stranger. I was moved by what you said, that I forgot my manners. I apologize,” the little girl replied, offering a slight bow to the young man. "If being allies means being a friend, t-then yes, I would like to be your friend." Chardonnay continued, and shifted her attention to the Princess as well, "I-I would like to be friends with you too, princess."At this point, the octopus caught everyone’s attention and was then immediately introduced by the host, the mysterious sea creature going by the name of Hachi. "Pleased to meet you, Hachi-san,” the baroness remarked, paying her respect with a bow, before raising up her face again with a smile. [353/2669] Juni Valentus
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Post by Juni on Jul 16, 2021 21:55:20 GMT -8
“Well, I do not mind being friends, Valentus-san. What the Pig Demon Duchies consider allies and vassals are people who have sworn their lives to protect each other. Baronette Sakuya-san was formerly a vassal to another Duke but returned to Grape Vine Village, swearing her life and loyalty to Baroness Chardonnay.” Juniper paused, “Of course, this level of allegiance is a double edge sword, as Duchies we aim to protect our people and our vassals, by placing our own lives on the line.”
The Dandelion Princess refilled her cup of tea, she kept her eyes crimson in color, and she released her transformation of her human appearance. In an instant red tipped horns grew from her forehead, her skin turned to ash, and her raven hair turned titanium white. While she was petite before, she also grew in size, her black kimono began to separate from her neck, and Hachi was transformed into a fur shawl around her to cover up the wardrobe malfunction in her demonic form.
“Well, since we all agreed to be friends, you may as well get to know me, too.” Hachiko reached into her pocket to take out a pair of glasses to look at Paizu. “I am afraid Hachi prefers aquatic creatures over fairies, little one.”
With a half bow, she introduced herself to the young guests, and smiled devilishly baring her fangs as her lips curled. “My name is Hachiko Tea. I was born a demon but due to my dream of becoming a mystic healer I casted aside my demonic visage to assume the identity of Juniper Tea. I am afraid, most people feel more comfortable being healed by a human than a demon, since our reputation among earthlings is infamous.”
After a beat, she picked up the tea cup, and took a sip before setting it back down, “I must confess, I have suppressed my demon side for too long so my personality has split between both forms, and our memories are also distinct. Where to next?”
Since reaching in her pocket, a teal colored thread was tangled between her fingers, and the light winter breeze tangled the thread on her demon horns. [362] [3,269] Valentus Chardonnay Attachments:
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Post by Valentus on Jul 18, 2021 5:03:53 GMT -8
"Ah, don't worry, you don't have to apologize - I wasn't offended, or anything of that sort..." Valentus answered to Chardonnay and nodded back to the girl with a soft smile. He could understand her, however - he too grew up in an environment which mandated politeness and appropriate manners, and learning the complicated etiquette of the old Tuffle nobility consumed a lot of time during his childhood. Unlike her - at least, as far as he assumed from her child-like appearance - Valentus has lived for far longer in this world, and service in the army, and later in ISLET, eroded this noblesse oblige.
After all, while the two ladies were unaware of it, all three of the people sitting by the table were nobles, with titles which corresponded to land ownership - or, in Valentus' case, used to correspond to it eight hundred years ago. Not... anymore.
Both Chardonnay and Juniper were receptive to his declaration of friendship - the former answered him back and confirmed it almost immediately, while the latter followed with specifics, once again detailing the nature of the Pig Demon Duchies and their relationships with each other, evoking the concept of vassalage. Such a concept once existed on Planet Plant as well, although it had vanished into the history books long before Valentus' birth. In the old society of the Tuffles, futuristic even by the standards of Earth, Tuffles were all considered free subjects, and even those who held onto their titles from ages past merely did so as a matter of prestige, rather than legal status. Earth, in this regard, was rather backwards - quite odd to consider, knowing that sometimes the Earthlings could bring forth technology which was no lesser than the Saiyan War era of Planet Plant.
But this planet has always been an oddity, Valentus did not need it established again. Frankly, he was just happy to have two additional friends. "All right!"
Paizu sighed when Hachi transformed, introduced herself and tried to reassure her - the fairy's call-out was prompted more by the appearance of the octopus, which appeared quite repulsive to her, but a human, even with horns, was less harsh on the eyes.
"Well, I suppose that's one more reason for me to stay clear of the ocean..." she mumbled.
"Hm, what do you mean?" Valentus answered, slightly unsure on what the demoness meant, when she finished and then suddenly addressed them.
(397 words, total 3715)
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Post by Chardonnay on Jul 19, 2021 9:47:33 GMT -8
Chardonnay’s eyes lit up with Valentus’ assurance and his declaration of friendship. He would be the first one to be her friend outside Grape Vine Village and her faction, the Pig Demon Duchies. To the baroness, it was an innocent one, a natural kind which does not expect anything in return, something which was probably far from what Princess Juniper had in mind, which seemed to be rather serious and somewhat complicated. The princess mentioned about Sakuya being at vassal first to some other duke, who Chardonnay remembered to be in the person of Duke Toma Fudo of Surf and Turf Village, until the demon returned to Grape Vine to swear loyalty and serve the Wine Siblings. The little girl then for a moment reminisced the old times, how she and her brother Merlot played together with the little demon before she was taken, and it was only after her father died that the vassal came back in service to the Wine Clan. Regardless of the Princess’ condition, Valentus agreed to the terms, and immediately found himself two allies. Chardonnay could only marvel at his strength, being able to survive this long while he went on his journey into unknown lands since it was no ordinary travel, as he mentioned earlier that he was on this quest to help others in need. The baroness at least had some idea how life could be dangerous outside her village, and it was not even that safe even while at home. “Uhmm, were you also able to make some friends--I mean, allies along your journey, other than us, Mr. Valentus?” the baroness asked out of curiosity. It was at this point that Juniper revealed her own true form, that she was a demon just as her vassal, further confessing that she developed two personalities, having to hide the other for such a long time. It was not shocking to the Wine girl anymore, she had seen this kind of transformation with Sakuya, and she was also used to seeing and interacting with some of the demons back in the Western Lands. “It’s no longer a surprise for me, princess. I am amused at how you were able to hold it this long. It must be a bit sad, that you have to hide your true identity from people so they could accept you. Please know that I do trust both of your personalities, princess.”
The question posed by Hachiko was a little puzzling to the baroness, and she was unsure to whom it was addressed, so she just tilted her head in curiosity, while Valentus took on the initiative to clarify what the question meant. [444/3113] Juni Valentus
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Post by Juni on Jul 21, 2021 6:07:49 GMT -8
Fortunately neither guest reacted to the physical change, even the self proclaimed hero must have witnessed a similar phenomenon to remain calm, which allowed her to be comfortable in her larger demonic form.
“The ocean is safe further south.”
Hachiko hummed to herself as she played bridge with the string between her fingers, she held a different countenance than Juniper, and she watched the fairy for a while as the youths spoke to each other. Chardonnay then turned to address her, feeling empathetic for her forced transformation by society’s view of demons, and she nodded at the juvenile Baroness.
“It is quite alright, it would take over a millennia to dissolve demons of their chaotic disposition, and there are very few demons or majins who can control the chaos within.”
The demoness was speaking from personal experience, within the demon clans around the globe, and their destructive power that would strike fear in the hearts of any earthling. Valentus was slightly confused when she asked what they wanted to do next.
“Well you see, I am only aware of the conversations Juniper has, when her eyes are crimson. It is at that point forward that we both must utilize our mystic powers to observe the chakras of others, which is how we are able to be perceptive of a person's constitution. So I missed the beginning of the conversation, how you both arrived here, and what you plan on doing for the time being?” Hachiko clarified, “Sometimes we have to leave each other notes to understand the situation at hand.” [260] [3,529] Valentus Chardonnay
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Post by Valentus on Jul 23, 2021 1:34:29 GMT -8
Valentus folded his arms when Chardonnay posed her next question - how successful has he been in gathering allies? Or, friends, perhaps... it was somewhat interchangeable in this case. After a few seconds of thought, considering what he could say, the Tuffle finally responded:
"Not... many, but I've found a handful. There's a beastman-like Saiyan I met who escaped from the same organization as I did, we did not start on great terms, but we've begun to work together," And he's also gotten quite... clingy, and really really into hugs. Which wasn't that much of an issue to Valentus, sure, but he simply happened to note that even after having been with Mizune for a short amount of time. "And, of course, I have Paizu with me!"
Paizu, sitting on the table, folded her arms and scoffed as she turned her face away, chin raised.
Hachiko, meanwhile, explained the difference between her "normal", demon form, and the squid form which she was presented by Juniper as. Juni herself had abandoned her earthling like form as well, assuming very clearly demon traits, though it seems she did not have the memory issue which Hachiko spoke about. Chardonnay had already assured them that she did not think any worse of either demons for their true appearance, and with a faint smile, Valentus added to her as well:
"I haven't travelled across Earth for a long time, and yet I have already seen so many strange and unbelievable things that I have grown to accept a lot of it. You can be sure that I am not going to think worse of either of you just because your true form is not a mere Earthling."
Valentus knew little about the reputation which Hachiko's species had on Earth, which the demoness briefly mentioned, but he figured that it was no reason for hate. Both her and Juniper were accepting and friendly, and that was all he needed.
"I arrived to Jingle Village on my quest to travel across the world and aid anyone who is in need of aid, with the best of my ability," Valentus briefly answered Hachiko's inquiry. "I'm sure Miss Chardonnay will be able to tell her side of the story."
(367 words, total 4082)
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Post by Chardonnay on Jul 24, 2021 18:10:59 GMT -8
It must be nice having to meet friends or allies along one’s journey; knowing that you could make a pact with somebody else despite your differences be it a race, or goals, or even beliefs and principles. If people could work together, and not alienate themselves with one another, maybe peace wouldn’t be impossible to attain after all. Chardonnay thought to herself as Valentus shared his experience encountering new people during his travels. The world is vast; yet the baroness only knew the people in their village, not everyone of them even. She has yet to discover unfamiliar places outside the town she loved dearly as she continued pursuing her goal to become stronger for the sake of her own community. Hachiko then asked how the two guests ended up in Jingle Village, explaining further that she becomes conscious only whenever Juniper, her other self, awakens her crimson eyes; thus, missing everything that had transpired from the moment they were welcomed in the house. After Valentus told his story, it was now the baroness’ turn, and so she shared openly, “We were with my brother, Baron Merlot and his friends, Lord Echo and Lord Note while we were climbing the mountain. Sakuya-chan and I missed them when the blizzard hit and our vehicle fell off the cliff. It was thanks to my vassal that I survived the harsh weather. We continued our journey to the peak as instructed by my brother. I remember passing out at the entrance of the village, and when I woke up, I was already here.”
The baroness couldn’t help but be worried about her family, the thought of fighting the enemies at the border scared her, but it was better fighting alongside them than being apart not knowing how they were doing. She just lost her father, what if… what if… before wandering further into her imagination, she shook her head of her worries, her brows twitched and met the demoness’ eyes with a determined look. “I-I… Is it possible for you to take us to the border? To where they are holding off the invaders? I don’t know where it is exactly, but you mentioned before that your husband is with them…so, perhaps...”
[374/3,487] Juni Valentus
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Post by Juni on Jul 25, 2021 3:02:40 GMT -8
Valentus’ attempt of making a compliment to her demonic visage fell flat, being compared to a mere earthling was not eloquent prose, but she felt no need to correct him with her mastery of the four arts. Hachiko had no desire to be admired in this form, very few enjoyed her demonic side, and she was more than used to it by now.
“I see.” The demoness blinked her crimson eyes in response to the hero and her attention was directed to Chardonnay.
“The weather is unpredictable anywhere, next time you need to carry enough DynoCapsules for the journey. I am astonished that a noble from the Wine Clan cannot afford such commodities, your village is the only purveyor of western land wines for the Casinos and businesses in Oolong City. Were you really raised by Baron Zinfandel to live a modest lifestyle?”
A sigh escaped her lips, she could not imagine how zeni was such an issue for the Wine Clan, unless their ledger was marked in the red due to bad investments, of course Hachiko had no idea that Baron Zinfandel was deceased since Chardonnay only informed Juniper of this fact.
“If you remembered being unconscious, is it even wise for you to venture out so soon?” Hachiko seemed rather perturbed, she was a mystic healer after all, and while she was not going to give her medical advice for free she could at least question the girl for being fickle. There was a reason her brother sent her to the village instead of following the rest of the clan.
“Well, if Juniper promised to escort you to your brother, then by all means.” The demoness tilted her head, the teal thread tied to her horns slipped off, and she reflected on her own husband, “Koma Daimao of The Dandelion clan is presently dispatched at several villages surrounding Sol Marina. Is that where your brother was headed, Barronette?”
At this point it was Sakuya who reacted to hearing her own title and was unable to make the distinction that it was Chardonnay’s former title. [344] [3,873] Valentus Chardonnay
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Post by Valentus on Jul 26, 2021 0:47:35 GMT -8
For some reason, Hachiko did not seem to like Valentus' reassurances, her expression and her swiftly moving on from his statement gave it away. What gives? He did not intend to say anything harsh about her, merely explain that no matter whether she looked like an Earthling squid or a demonic woman, he did not particularly care either way. It was who they were that mattered, not what they appeared like. Perhaps he worded something wrong - maybe he will be able to apologize for it later.
For now, the conversation turned towards Chardonnay's side of the story. The young girl had been travelling with a few of her friends, Echo and Note, as well as with her brother Merlot, when the snowstorm outside of the village left her without a vehicle or their peers, forced to travel through the snow alone until they finally reached the village and thus arrived here.
Listening to the story, Valentus felt a tinge of regret that he made his way straight to the direction of the village, rather than take a detour and see whether anyone else was making their way upwards. He couldn't have possibly known that there was someone in need of aid... but maybe he could have intercepted Chardonnay on the way and helped her and Sakuya reach the village safely. Hachiko, meanwhile, chose to chastise Chardonnay for not having DynoCapsules with her - which struck Valentus as rather off beat. They lost their car, did they not? Perhaps the capsule cases were there...
Either way, it wasn't particularly polite to chastise a victim for not being prepared enough for the whims of nature.
Valentus just listened to the conversation in silence, however, he did not have that much to add. The mention of this person called "Koma", who was dispatched to the north according to the demoness, did get added to his memory bank, however.
(314 words, total 4396)
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Post by Chardonnay on Jul 26, 2021 20:24:42 GMT -8
The sudden change in the tone of the princess somewhat baffled Chardonnay. Her other personality, Juniper, was kinder and more accommodating, and she was… just a while ago, but for some reason or another, became a bit snarky and did not even mince her words. Hachiko further commented on how the late Baron Zinfandel raised his daughter. The baroness twitched her brows, she knew her father raised her well and she had been taking care of their business ever since the baron left it as their inheritance. Chardonnay remembered the demoness wasn’t able to recall previous conversations unless Juniper awakened her eyes, so the little girl decided to brush off the demoness' ignorance on the matter. “My father just died recently. I am still learning to take care of the business with the help of my grandparents, along with my advisors. As for the Dyno Capsules, we brought a lot… but the weather was so strong that everything was taken away. It was even a miracle that I survived the storm. Thanks to Sakuya-chan, and to Princess Juniper’s hospitality, I am still alive. And I would be forever grateful for the kindness the princess offered.”
Chardonnay wasn’t sure if it was helpful to make a distinction between the demon and the princess, but she couldn’t also cower at her insults. If she does, the demoness might just make fun of her for being a wimp, so she had to put up a strong attitude. At least. When the demoness inquired about her health, asking if it was wise to venture out, the little girl held her breath, she couldn't just stand idly and do nothing. She was meant to be there, fighting alongside her brother, if not for the weather, “I-I believe they were expecting me to be there. This is supposed to be part of my training, and I can’t just back out just because of unforeseen circumstances. I feel much better now, Princess Hachiko.”As for the whereabouts of her brother, she wasn’t sure exactly where but eventually recalled that Merlot mentioned meeting up with a man named Koma of a samurai clan before the raid. “Y-yes… I recalled that Lord Merlot mentioned meeting him.”Sakuya tilted her head in confusion when the older demoness mentioned her title, but eventually realized that the question was posed for her master instead. The baroness was unsure of correcting their host, but given what she had told earlier, perhaps the Hachiko would be keen enough to correct herself. If not, it wasn’t much of a big deal either, when she was still getting used to the title since her father passed away. [448/3935] Juni Valentus
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