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Post by godfreya on Oct 18, 2015 8:14:57 GMT
"I see."
Godfreya nodded to the explanation given by the man dressed in red robes. She could discern that he was not a magus or a human. He was certainly a Heroic Spirit like herself. Looking at him, a man with an average build, he appeared to be not suited for close-range combat but looking at the sword he held, it was quite odd. He could be a Rider but most certainly not an Archer. She also noticed the red robe to be something similar to her sword and appraised that this man could be a believer. She then glanced to the boy wearing glasses and heard out his explanation before turning her gaze to the young girl wielding a sword. Before addressing what she originally came here for, she introduced herself first, as it was proper manners to do so.
"Good evening. I am Saber but my true name is Godfreya."
She said as she introduced herself with her Class and True name. If this was a standard Holy Grail War set on that land in the Far East, Godfreya wouldn't have done so as it would go against the rules of the conflict. Declaring one's true name was similar to a death sentence as the name brought not only the strengths of a Heroic Spirit but also their weaknesses. Even so, Godfreya would not entirely mind people knowing who she was. After all, she had no weaknesses in life and what killed her was an illness she developed due to a poison she received when she was attacked by an Assassin.
"Are you perhaps a Christian? I can see that the red robe you wear is a Holy Shroud."
She addressed the red robed Servant while gesturing with her hand. Although she did not possess any discernment eyes, the cloth the Heroic Spirit have was certainly a Holy Shroud. She had seen them before when she marched with the Crusaders along with the True Cross. The Church used to employ Holy Sacraments during the Crusades to boost morale. The sword she wielded was no different. Although it was a normal, well-forged, sword, its properties of a sword that slew enemies of faith, and her crowning achievement as the Holy Land's defender with that sword, led to it having holy substances similar to Holy Sacraments.
"I was led here by a song. Perhaps, you were the singer?"
She then turned her eyes and words to the young girl who wields a sword. She addressed her with a sweet yet commanding voice, a charismatic vibe certainly surrounded Godfreya, having commanded people during her life and all would admire her poise because of the contrasting nature that jibed well.
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Post by Miska on Oct 18, 2015 16:59:39 GMT
"I guess you wouldn't, my line has a tendency to vanish from the world every now and then. Without making it a long story, I'm the 3rd, 1st head to the Artzen line, no territory... uuh yet. Hopefully working with Chaldea will give me the boost I need."Miska listened politely to the bespectacled man explaining his family. Artzen… a 3rd generation family. Perhaps that was why she hadn’t heard of the name before. She was always told that someone below 5th generation was not worth her attention. Although truthfully, she had never met one to really confirm one. “I…see.” He nodded, averting his gaze. “That is quite horrible.” Actually, he had meant a less strong word that could sound sympathetic, rather than “horrible”. But as always, he had a penchant to be misunderstood. She did not have chance to ask more because the topic shifted to laboratory. And since the guy was obviously pleased to shift conversation, Miska let him be. She herself had been planning to see Chaldea laboratory once she was told about it in the plane, so maybe they would have a chance to meet again. ---------------- --- ---
More surprisingly, it seemed that the armored lady question was easily understood by the two others. Miska added another mental note to herself that people in Chaldea were sometimes called Crusaders by fellow members. ‘So we truly are in a grand concerted effort. I knew it! Father would not send me here for nothing!' In her first mission, she would greet her teammates as “Crusader”. But the lady! She had this aura of being a natural leader, a person who can rouse even the most lethargic rabble and instill them untold courage. She was so graceful, so collected in her bearings that Miska could imagine her followers willing to follow her even to the ends of earth. Her charisma alone would be enough to move people! She somehow reminded Miska of his father, a composed, mature, natural “lord” that Miska strived to be. And her name was Saber- er, Godfreya. Was Saber her alias? Miska did not understand yet the way Servant-Masters work other than “Servants are Heroic Spirit.”, so she still did not grasp the way Servants address themselves What she did know was Godfreya a.k.a Saber surely was a hero in her time. Godfreya… Godfreya… Godfreya is a feminine form of Godfrey. There was a famous Godfrey of Bouillon and of Lower Lorraine who was one of the Leaders of The First- but what is she thinking! Godfreya is a lady. So…maybe she has some connection with The Goddess Freya or-? Lost in his own thought, Miska did not realize that Godfreya had asked him. There was some awkward silence before he noticed everyone was looking at him. Her eyes widened in surprise. “Oh-“Wha-wha-what did she ask? Something about… Wait, why is he still holding his sword like that? Put it down! Miska lowered his sword, and, Unable to restrain himself, her cheek blushed red, although whether it was because of the lady’s gaze or because he had made a clown of himself in front of others again was not clear. Godfreya was asking about… singing! Yes! ‘Wait, she heard my singing? I-I thought-‘ His eyes ran wild, anywhere but seeing the others’ eyes. Impulsively, his free fingers started to twitch themselves. “I-I don’t-No, I did sing…” ‘Dammit Miska! Calm and composed! Calm and composed! Like a true lord!’ “I did hum some tune- but that wasn’t supposed to be heard!” She suddenly said in a sharp tone. She did not know why but she felt slightly angered now. The shine in her eyes were absolutely defiant. “I was training and I did not know! It was only- !“But then he realized that he had somehow increase his tone and he abruptly stopped, his gaze lowered as if in apology. In a protective gesture both of his arms were clamped shut near his body. “No. I did not- sing.” she whispered weakly. To no one but her feet. Meanwhile, the sun had left all of its traces in the sky. The mountains were completely dark now, and the night wind had started howling. Perhaps it was best for them to return inside.
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Post by emiya on Oct 18, 2015 17:28:42 GMT
Archer nods at Anton’s response. “I appreciate it. There’s a lot of curious things going on around here, and I wouldn’t mind knowing a bit more about it. In exchange, I can, at the very least, diagnose just about any mechanical problem you’d need me to. It’s a special trick of mine, you could say.” Fond memories of him repairing heating coils or air conditioners with his high school student council came back to him, along with not so fond memories of him defusing bombs or repairing tanks and guns. He didn’t mind being practical with his magic, not in the slightest.
He was glad the other Heroic Spirit accepted his explanation, more hotheaded ones might not accept having a sword drawn in the presence of two humans as being something easily explained away. Her name was confusing, neither his summoning nor his time as a Counter Guardian gave him knowledge of such a hero. Perhaps it was something similar to Arturia, where she was known as something else. Regardless, it wasn’t something important enough to pursue. Maybe when he needed to count on her skills in battle he would demand a more full explanation.
“I’m Archer. If you want my name, it’s Emiya, but it doesn’t really matter much.” Invariably, knights expected an equivalent response once a name was given, and he soon realized that he was held to that standard. In a Grail War, he would’ve refused utterly, but now, there was no reason to stomp on sensibilities.
When she drew her attention to his cloak, he shakes his head. “Unfortunately, no, I’m not. I found it rather hard to keep a faith after I’ve seen the things I’ve seen. Not to mention my main contact with the Christian faith was well...an insane man bent on the destruction of the world would be a good summation, though that might be letting him get away too easily.” He unclasps the Shroud, pulling it off his arms and leaving him wearing only his chestplate above his waist. “This happened to be a gift, and I wore it because it helps me repel magical influence. If it’s insulting that a man like me is holding it, I can take it off. I don’t particularly need it when we’re not in danger.”
He sighs as Miska trips over herself. Was singing something really worth being embarrassed about? He didn’t correct her because he didn’t want to interfere, but it was still a frustration. What’s more important was the slowly setting sun, and the wind picking up. “At least for the humans, I’d advise against staying outside in a snowy Russian night. It’s not particularly healthy.”
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Post by anton on Oct 18, 2015 21:07:53 GMT
Miska's words dug up quite the punch to Anton's pride
Anton was more or less more paying attention to the waining sun than to the general conversations. Another round of introductions happened, this time between the Servants. To both names he could honestly say he had no idea, they weren't names he was familiar with. One sounded Asian the other North European, but of the former he didn't know much and of the latter he had some notions but honestly there were nearly countless knights and kings if one really dug up in history.
He was lightly intrigued by Emiya's background, but then again all Servants he imagined had very lively anecdotes of their lives. Possibly they weren't all high points. If there was one thing Anton's insight told him is that he wouldn't want to be a Hero, as dazzling as they could be it was how they got to where they are, what they lost and what they gave up that intimidated him. That was probably what made Anton more uncomfortable about Heroic Spirits.
Anton wasn't the kind of man that formed opinions quickly about somethings or of people. But, though the conversation seemed harmless enough it was veering on a topic that Anton would rather avoid. Thankfully Miska provided the distraction from that topic, he would just have to veer it further away from it.
"I could hear it from a fair distance, but these woods are so quite most of the time. I'm guessing that's why the sound carried over."
Anton looked at the last vestiges of sunlight slipping on the horizon. "I'm not fond of the idea of walking back home in pitch darkness." He added, if he hadn't stopped to socialize he'd by inside the base by now. "So I'll be heading back now, if anyone is coming. I got a flashlight." He said, drawing a small pocket flashlight from his jacket and turning it on. The light it provided was minimal, certainly wouldn't help if you got lost in the woods. But thankfully as Darkness rolled in, the outer lights of Chaldea came to life they were bright enough on the night sky to know its general direction. A benefit of being in a remote area devoid of human life.
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Post by godfreya on Oct 19, 2015 1:32:26 GMT
"Calm down, little one."
Godfreya addressed the young girl with a serene voice. Although she did claim she hummed a tune, she refused to admit it was her who produced that melodic song.It was apparent that she was embarrassed by Godfreya's question. Deep inside, Godfreya chuckled. It was a long time since the last she had met such a person who would show embarrassment from something so trivial. Though, looking at her age, it was natural.
"I can tell from your voice that it was you who sang it. Don't be shy, it was beautiful."
She continued while letting out a smile directed at the young girl. She approached her and patted her on the shoulder to show encouragement and gesturing to her sword which she seemed to have taken notice. So this girl was not only a singer but also a swordsman, like her. Godfreya's impression was that every other agent here aside from Heroic Spirits were magi but it seemed she was somewhat mistaken.
"What's your name, little one? Are you a swordsman?"
She asked as she looked at her with curious eyes. Her desire to wield the sword was very much similar to Godfreya's when she was young. Of course, her brazen personality contrasted that of this young girl's shyness. Nonetheless, by looking at this little girl's hand which showed bruises of practicing the sword, Godfreya can discern by her experience alone that this young girl is a dedicated person.
Then, the other Servant, the red robed man, who surprisingly addressed himself as Archer, introduced himself. An Archer? His physique and his weapon removed that possibility from Godfreya's thoughts. But maybe there were just like him who were summoned in a class but had proficiency in other weapons that were brought for along with the container. An Archer that can be a swordsman. It was a unique combination though not too rare for Godfreya's eyes as she would usually train her men with the bow and the sword interchangeably in order to increase versatility. "Emiya?"
Archer had said his true name. It was an odd name but Godfreya thought it sounded Asian. So, Archer should be from anywhere in the East but the name was quite mysterious. The summoning had gave her sufficient knowledge about the legends of other Heroic Spirits but Emiya was not given to her for some reason. Then, Archer claimed to not being a Christian, due to some experience he had and something with a Christian wanting to destroy the world. Blasphemy. A man who claimed to be a servant of the Lord should not have any desires. It was preposterous.
"It cannot be helped for someone to lose faith if one would witness destruction and chaos all their life. But all I can say, Heroic Spirit Emiya, that whatever hell you witnessed, God always guided you. You only need to believe in Him."
Godfreya gave an advice to the bowman. It was an advice she used repetitively to people during her life. She would usually meet people, especially in the course of the Crusades, who would lose hope in the face of utter despair. Who would cling to evil in order to survive. Godfreya was no saint. She would not hesitate to kill people who abandon God simply to save themselves. But, she isn't that mercilessly and ruthless either. She, as she believed God would, allow people to feel His light once again and see Him as their savior. In the face of darkness, Godfreya would remind people that God is there and that only death awaited those who abandoned the Truth and the Life.
"That Christian you mentioned. I do not know who he is but he is no Christian. Such a man who claimed to be a Servant of God should have no interest in the demise of His Garden. Moreso, becoming a threat to God's children! "
Godfreya exclaimed in a sharp tongue. There should be no reason to be angry at a person you do not know. However, a faithful and loyal person to the Lord to an extent that she would gave all her life in full devotion, Godfreya would not let this pass by. She would make sure that people would not mix those who have personal vices to the name of Christianity and God.
"His outer facade might be that of a believer, but his heart is no less than the devil. There were many people like him during my time. Pretenders but are actual heretics or those who used the name of God for greed."
She ended it with a brief sigh. She truly hated being irked up like this. Though Archer did not directly irritate him, it was that man he had claimed that made him annoying. Hopefully, that man he had claimed would not appear in this place or she might condemn him to death by God's judgment.
"Forgive me for my outburst. I utmost despise people who claimed themselves to be serving God but only themselves."
Going back to Archer's explanation of his Holy Shroud, Godfreya replied,
"There is no problem. Holy Shrouds are sacraments meant to symbolize a saint's martyrdom. You said it was a gift from someone which I could guess a Christian like myself. Then, at some point of your life, you had serviced yourself for the Lord?"
She noticed the evening sky and took notice of it more from the boy in glasses' words. Godfreya turned his eyes into him as he seemed to appear to leave and she said, "I seek to remain here though I seem to have not yet gotten your name. Before you go, I wish to know it. I feel we would meet again."
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Post by Miska on Oct 21, 2015 0:37:59 GMT
Oh Miska wasn’t happy. A better progatonist in another story would probably took heart from the praise and open himself more, or simply embarrass herself again and stuttering for words. Miska was neither. Deep down, there was a slight resentment of the patronizing way Godfreya view the child. Miska wasn’t really sure why –there certainly was happiness in there too. But perhaps some things could not be understood from one perspective only. But Godfreya’s demeanor was truly grand, and Miska found herself unable to resist giving in to her charisma. The little fight that was left in her faded to smoldering vehemence that she hid somewhat perfectly. She just stood there with an uneasy expression, unable to say what she would want to until Godfreya asked her name. “My –name- is Miska, milady.” His upbringing took over his subconscious and he politely bended his head a little while adding milady. It was impossible to regard Godfreya for anything other than a refined lady. “Miska of Malamo. Lord Kopparsvard IX.”Perhaps more than she originally intentioned, she added an extra emphasis to the word “Lord” in a somewhat vain manner. ….Was she being a brat? “I practiced sword,” he continued, now lifting his gaze more confidently to see his fellow speakers, “But I think I can hardly be called a swordsman.” Although it might sound like a polite excuse, Miska actually meant that he considered swordsman beneath his status. He aspired to be a Lord, not a mere swordsman. The term had a pejorative meaning in his dictionary. But like before, she had a penchant to be misunderstood. What Anton added was of no help either. Her eyes shifted to him, unsure of how to respond. Just then he mentioned about going back and Miska seized the chance. The urgency in his tone was only half-hidden. “Wait, Anton. Can- can I come with you?”
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Post by emiya on Oct 21, 2015 3:29:35 GMT
Godfreya’s preaching, while it could be annoying to some, was about the opposite to Emiya. He didn’t scorn it, or talk against it. There was no reason to. The desire to spread a religion like Christianity came from a heartfelt desire to help save people in dire need. There were many that needed that message. Himself not being one of them didn’t mean there was a need to take it out on the messenger.
“Perhaps I will come to see things as you do. However, I don’t think a rapid conversion is truly likely. In fact, unfortunately, if I were to take your words at face value, perhaps I would grow to dislike God for no reason. My tale wasn’t exactly a heartwarming one.” He shrugs. “I find actions to be more swaying than words, anyway. Following examples was what got me where I was today. Perhaps if I see more of a godly life being lived, then I’ll be more willing to change my ways.”
Her condemnation of Kotomine Kirei put a smile on his face. That bastard got what was coming to him for what he’d done. It was a good, nostalgic memory, a time where he’d saved the world and earned a smile or two from people alongside it. What happened immediately afterwards was less enjoyable memory, but that was neither here nor there.
“Oh, believe me, I know he wasn’t a true practitioner of the faith. Just a pretender, who used the church’s influence to further his own twisted ends. It’s merely that for most of my life, he was the only experience I had with the church. Later, that changed, but they had a greater interest in being able to use me as a mercenary with ends I could agree with, than try and convert me with any real strength.”
As both Anton and Miska agree that going indoors is a proper course of action, Archer turns to Godfreya. “If you’re staying outdoors, that’s fine. I didn’t exactly get my time to think, but I don’t care overmuch. I just needed a bit of air, it seemed. I’m willing to guide them back.” Turning to Anton and Miska, he starts walking.
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Post by anton on Oct 23, 2015 1:00:14 GMT
"Oh sorry about that, I'm Anton... Err a Provisional Master, so we'll likely work together at some point." He said, it honestly slip his mind to give his name to Saber. He wasn't used to introducing himself more than once and people generally tended to ignore him. Not that he minded, so he assumed that Godfreya was more interested in the others and not him. Anton politely waited for people to reply. Since it seemed that both Archer and the overly teased Miska was eager to escape being the main topic also wanted to join him back on the trip to Chaldea. Anton shrugged with a polite smile. "Sure, I don't see why you can't haha" He tried joking, again he wasn't sure if it was funny. He turned back toward Saber. "Oh, erm well nice to meet you Godfreya, see you around." He said that as his farewell. Then he turned towards Archer. "Thanks." There wasn't much point to being upset about being talked down by a Servant, well he was sure Archer never meant it that way. Also on the plus side, it meant that the chances of getting lost would be nigh impossible. To that he couldn't complain. He walked behind Emiya, his tiny flashlight pointed at the path that Archer would take. He saw as snowflakes began to tickle down from the darkened skies, but resumed his walk. It was getting colder and he really began to wish he was back in his room with his thick blanket. He had to wonder how Miska was keeping warm, probably some pretty practical spell or an enchantment. He kinda wish he could be more careless with his own magecraft at times like theses. Still, he found it amusing at how many people he found outside of the base. He was of the idea that most people liked to remain inside, keeping busy. *** OCC: If this is as far as the thread goes, then this is Anton's exit. If not nevermind this.
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Post by godfreya on Oct 23, 2015 2:28:12 GMT
"Miska? What a nice name. For such a young girl to obtain the title of Lord, you must be in a prestigious family."
Godfreya addressed the young girl. During her time, it was only natural for young people to inherit the title of their fathers after they pass away or decided to retire from politics. Like how she obtained, at a young age, the title of Lord of Lower Lorraine from her uncle by being an adoptive heir to her uncle's house. Though there were benefits of being a young heir, there were also negative aspects of it. Nonetheless, those who take the position at a young age and live up to it by fulfilling the role splendidly are impressive to Godfreya.
"You seem to be a Provisional Master. Though I assume you practice thaumaturgy. . ."
Godfreya closed his eyes and showed a furious look upon mentioning what she considered a blasphemous word. It was natural for faithful Christians and Roman Catholics to despise magic. It was one of the greatest violation of faith after all. A taboo amongst taboo.
"By wielding a sword, hmm. . .that's perfect and more appropriate. How about I offer to teach you how to wield it some other time? I am under the Saber class and I had my fair share of sword lectures during my life."
As she gestured to Miska, the young girl seemed to be showing her shyness once again. This made her giggle inside but only showed a gentle smile outside. She cannot help but like these kind of people who have innocent souls. Then, as she also listened to Archer's reply, Godfreya pondered on this man's past. It intrigued her after all. "What was this man's experience that led him to this?" She thought to herself. The way he described himself was the same way a Christian soldier will describe the war in Edressa. But looking at Archer's eyes, Godfreya can't help but feel there's something far more terrifying. However, she wasn't one to dig deep in other's secrets or background so she let it go.
"If we get to fight in the frontlines, I'll show you God's light with my sword, Archer. As His Servant and Knight, it's my duty to inspire people to follow His word and path."
She offered to Archer as she was a bit concern that this man might not have felt the salvation he seek during his past life. Even so, Godfreya will try to make him realize that salvation exists and only through God can it be attained. "This is why I will cleanse all defilers of God's garden, Archer. Especially those who call themselves God's servants but do not act as such and those that are vile and atrocious blasphemous heretics. . !"
She gritted her teeth and clench her gauntlet. Once again, she showed her furious side on heretics. While she may sometime appear as a gentle cub, she can truly be a ferocious lion. A trait she might have gotten from her ancestor or simply something she possessed by being a very faithful follower of God's words. Lastly, she turned to Anton, who was now heading out, "I hope that day that we will work together comes, Anton. You seem to be a reliable Master."
Eventually, Godfreya decided to stay in the clearing where snow felt from the night sky. As the three slowly left in the shadows of the night, she stood there alone, gazing at the starless sky which were now filled with white diamonds of an angel.
"Beautiful."
She murmured, which is loud enough for the others to hear, to herself as she raised her hand to grasp a falling snow. Like a little girl, the snow truly touched her heart. Especially, since, after the time she embarked for Jerusalem and her death, she had never experienced this feeling. And then, she knelt on the land covered by white blanket and closed her eyes while both her hands were clasped.
The snow rained on as she began her delicate prayer.
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Post by Miska on Oct 26, 2015 16:37:52 GMT
The young child seemingly wanted very much to leave. He fidgeted all the while the conversation last, and his free fingers who had twitched earlier. It wasn’t even clear whether he listened to what was being said. When the knight gave a remark about his family, however, he suddenly lifted her gaze up towards the lady somewhat forcefully than before. The expression on his face was something of indignation. Hurt even. He seemed to take offense at how the lady treated him like a mere child. “I am not a girl,” she said, with her chin held high and back straightened in full. It looked like she was trying to look more mature than she was. “And I am the rightful heir of my title. It has nothing to do with prestige.”Strange at how the child seemed to take offense at such matters. But it didn’t last long. As if realizing another of his outburst the child shut his mouth and returned his gaze to the sole of her shoes. He didn’t speak again until the end of the conversation, save for some polite nods to show that he was listening. When it was time to take her leave of Godfreya, however, the red-haired Lord gave a polite nod. “I hope we will meet again, Lady.” and quickly scurried on her way, seemingly wanting to leave the lady alone as soon as possible. But before that she ran first to where she was training to pick up the used and unused wooden blocks. “Never waste good wood...” she mumbled between her breath. She then caught up to Anton and the white-haired Servant and began their journey back. But when they were about to enter the Chaldea compound, the child looked back to where they conversed before. There he saw a silver figure, her golden hair flowing, standing alone and undisturbed amidst the falling snow. Even as he watched her the figure extended her hand seemingly towards the snow, and then she dropped on her knees to pray. A silent prayer, from a silent Servant, beseeching a silent God in a silent woods of this silent night. “Beautiful…”And as her words disappeared in the wind, Miska Kopparsvard entered the imposing Chaldea Compound, never to look back. *** -Exit Miska -
***
Everyone, thank you very much for making Miska's first thread a memorable one! Thanking: anton emiya godfreya
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