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Post by vamperious on May 23, 2023 20:23:55 GMT -5
" Obedience...Loyalty...Devotion" His voice rang out into the large church courtyard. Everyone's eyes were on him, just the way he liked it. His handsome face broke into a smile as he looked at the following masses- the whole town. Tradition here, he knew but it felt nice. His blue eyes flickered to the woman with red hair there- Moncia Mason. His heiress. His future slave...She seemed quiet and innocent- obedient- what more could he wish from a woman?
><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><> Moncia sat there, white dress looking pretty on her thinner silhouette. Startling red hair put up in a more formal updo as she was at the churches' mass. She was in her own thoughts today, her mind having an issue wrapping itself around the marriage proposal from the very man speaking to all these people about devotion. He was handsome- that wasn't the issue, but he was the head priest. That was strange to her, but she knew they weren't restricted to a loveless life, but most didn't marry. When Tias got her attention with a soft smile in her direction, she smiled back, more to be polite. His speech finished, he retired to the inside of the church. The people began to leave and go about their day, she however went to a building off the grand cathedral to wait for Tias. He had asked to see her about a matter of an outsider coming to town. Stepping inside the office, the more luxurious furniture drew her eyes. She wasn't used to things this nice as the church was the pinocle- and all others were servants. The odd skull sitting on Tias's desk made her feel strange- feeling like it had an eye- however it was a butterfly resting there oddly the blue spot of its wing staring at her. The bug didn't move as she looked at it, taking a seat to perhaps not startle it. Its soft looking wings were oddly formidable looking as it seemed to have nerves of Steele to be this close to a human and not mind. Moncia hadn't noticed any time pass as she stared at this butterfly but when the door slammed open, she jumped. Tias strolled in, looking annoyed at someone talking to him in a hushed whisper. "Yes yes, of course I'll look into it. Yes." He said more or less dismissing the person to get them to leave him be. She sat quietly as he closed the door and gave her a softer smile, "My lovely Moncia. I have a request for you my dear." he stated smoothly. She rose a brow at him but gave a coyer smile," You already asked for my hand, Tias. The more you ask won't hasten my answer." She teased the man who chuckled at her. "If only it did- I would as with every breath. However, it is a different matter. We have a guest coming..." He stated as he seemed to let his mind wonder-but he was simply thinking on how to explain things. "An uninvited guest?" she asked more open ended to gauge the situation. "Never unwanted- but a surprise for sure. I'm short on details but I would ask you host them when they arrive. I'm not even sure if it's just one or more. I am sorry for my lack of information, but this is very short notice for even me." he said looking a little concerned, but she shook her head with a smile. "No worries, I will be the perfect host." A reassuring look on her face as she smiled at him. "I have no doubt in my mind they will be taken with your beauty as well as your hosting skills, my lady." He flirted lightly getting her a blush. "Well, thank you Tias but relying on ones' beauty can be seen as vain- We are taught that it is only a trait of those who are choses to be delivered to our god- is it not?" she countered with the church's teachings that always seemed off to her but that was life. "Of course, but it also isn't a sin to know you are beautiful." He said trying to counter that with yet another flirting attempt. She eventually cut the small talk and left, going to prepare for the visitors. She left word with the gate guards to have them escorted to her house. Not wanting them to get lost as the town was a bit larger than most. This land was famous for its lush gardens, fertile soils, lack of diseases and sicknesses. It was a blessed land...so they are told.
town map attached Attachments:
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Post by kimcora on Jul 7, 2023 13:31:29 GMT -5
Character Profiles: skyamoebarealm.proboards.com/post/23192The high tin of a bell being slammed drew a startled gasp from the blonde woman in the booth, her brown eyes flitting toward the counter where a plate of steaming eggs and bacon lay. She shifted uncomfortably in her seat from one thigh to the other on the worn pleather. Her legs crossed to keep her leg from bouncing in anticipation. Ruth was never much of a fan of kitschy diners like this one. She never got the appeal of the nostalgia of the forgotten times of old Americana. It felt like places like these were clinging to an ideal image, rather than the awful memories the past could hold. It made her stomach churn…or perhaps the culprit was being trapped in this outdated diner? The source of this brilliant idea was currently stirring his black coffee, as if magically the cream he requested 30 minutes ago would suddenly materialize inside the cup. Her older, twin brother, Benjamin, sat across from Ruth, hunched over his lukewarm drink. He had been messing with it for almost an hour now, avoiding the awkward silence between them like a debtor dodging the IRS. However, her gasp seemed to draw his attention, his glasses slipping slightly down his nose when he startled. “What is it, Ru?” He asked, soft voice sounding panicked as if ready to flee rather than stay and fight. Ben was never much of a fighter, hardly a man of confidence either. Their aunt always joked that Ruth stole all of it for herself before they were born. It was moments like these that she wished her aunt was wrong. “Nothing. Just getting tired of sitting in silence.” The terse response got a flinch from him, Ben’s head ducking to fuss with his coffee once more. “I–I get that. I just…I just don’t know how to even begin.” His response didn’t thrill the woman. Instead, the complacency and lack of direction made her hand ball into a fist on the table. “You could start with, ‘How have you been oh sister of mine that I haven’t seen in years?’. Or maybe ‘Wow isn’t this a grand visit! We get to come together to get our dead parents' crap that they tossed aside like they did us.’.” She arched a brow as Ben slowly looked back up to her. His eyes looked wet, like the man might be close to tears. Ben was always a cry baby as a kid and it seemed that was something that continued into adulthood. She wouldn’t know. She hadn’t seen him in 10 years. He ran away to university shortly after Aunt Rachel got sick, leaving Ruth to pick up the pieces. “That isn’t fair Ruth–” He tried to sigh out, but Ruth was quick to stop him from making excuses. “Don’t start. We both know it’s true.” The snappish response was met with an unconvinced, tight look from her brother, but she didn’t care. He didn’t get to make excuses for the people that made their life a living hell until Aunt Rachel got them out of that house. “Ru, they were unwell. You know that. The courts agreed. But we’re all they had left…So it’s our job to settle their affairs. Tie up loose ends so that we can move on.” Ruth gave him a scoff, eyes going to the window to her right. “Move on…right.” She knew what that meant. Another thing to bury from their past, another goodbye she would have to say to her brother, and another thing to add to her collection of baggage. But she couldn’t bring that up. It would only make the ride over to this town more awkward. Besides, was this really how she wanted to spend the limited time with her brother she had? “It’s a little fucked…but I have to say I’m kind of morbidly curious what’s left of them…you know?” She tried to begin, but Benjamin only swallowed, fiddling with the handle of his mug. She pursed her lips, watching his fingers trail the cup. “What does Sandra think?” She noted the way Ben’s fingers twitched, pain flashing through his eyes. Shit…she hit a nerve. “I don’t know. I didn’t tell her. We don’t speak much these days.” Ruth’s brows knitted, realizing then what he was getting at. So maybe things weren’t as peachy as she thought for Ben. “Shit, sorry…I didn’t know.” He shook his head, taking a drink of the coffee that made him cringe at the taste. “How could you? It’s not like I’ve been the best at updating you on my life.” He looked back at her, his stare easing some in regret. “I should have been better, Ru…Sorry.” The apology made a lump form in the woman’s throat, but she shoved it down with a quick clearing of her throat. “I know…But we can talk about that later.” She looked outside, seeing their ride had arrived. “We have a ride to catch.” They paid for the shitty coffee and made their way to the driver, bags in hand. They were only an hour from the place they would be staying, someone in the town supposedly. Anxiety continued to well in the pair as they sat next to each other, setting out on their journey towards their parents' new home.
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Post by vamperious on Jul 10, 2023 22:37:55 GMT -5
The house ready, Monica made sure to prepare 2 rooms just in case. She had dinner cooking and had extra items including desserts- wanting to be a good host. There was a knock on the door- the metal knocker almost scaring her at how loud it had been in the quiet house. ---- The gate guards asked them out, for the letter of admission- finding the death letter. They waved the taxi off- calling some one to bring their things into the gate, a rather large imposing one at that. They were escorted to the large house by the temple. It's pretty green color was a nice change from the large white pillars of the temple near by. They knocked and waited with them so they didn't wander off. ----- She checked her hair for a moment before opening the door with a lite smile to the company she had. The guard Gabe her a nod and left with out a word, dropping their bags there with them. "OH,welcome! Come in please." She stated sounding a little flustered that they didn't have help with their stuff. She grabbed a bag and helped bring it in at least. " I'm sorry- the guard isn't very friendly. Please come in- make yourself at home." She stated with a bright smile. She showed them into the living room of sorts and hand them sit by the fireplace and offered them tea or coffee since it was obvious she was a little nervous with new people.
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Post by kimcora on Jul 12, 2023 11:04:48 GMT -5
The sibling spared few words between them on the ride to the strange new town, their minds preoccupied instead by what they would find. They had found out little to nothing about this place as all that existed was word of mouth and veru little press. The place was titled a paradise on Earth, but not much else was known. To say the least, Ruth was skeptical and Ben was unnerved. How had a town like this become so exclusive and so secretive? Some said there was nothing to hide, but the siblins knew all to well that things that looked pretty on the outside could have an absolutely rotten core. It was why they were hesitant to agree to traveling by taxi to the place, as they were not allowed to drive their own vehicle. Something about passing inspection or rather? Either way, when they stepped out onto the pavement of the front gate, they realized then just how stuck they were...While Ben tried to be optimistic that it would force them to learn more about thier parents, Ruth felt on edge. It showed when this woman approached them, frazzled about their bags and inviting them inside the massive home.
Ben quickly went to help her, shaking his head as he held a hand up to ease her. "Oh it's no trouble, Miss." He said while Ruth only watched her with suspicion. The woman was pretty, she understood that much from a once over glance of her. She even noticed Ben admiring her, even if the pair were far from acknowledging it outloud. This was someone that knew their parents. That fact brought some unease. Ruth traced her actions, trying to appear like she wasn't watching the woman for signs of deciet or intent. It frustrated Ruth that she was a hard read...or maybe she was being honest?
Ben was more trusting and followed along with her trying to be a doting hostess. He wouldn't dare let her think otherwise, as to show they were off put by this whole ordeal would be rude. He was never rude, not outwardly so. The guilt of the perception would absolutely destroy him. It was why he smiled as they sat in the parlor, the warmth of the fire making him shift a bit to hide his discomfort. Curse his choice of suit and tie. It hardly was breathable fabric, making him a bit too warm.
"Tea would be lovely thank you." He said, accepting the cup while Ruth went for the coffee.
The silence stretched on, Ben glancing at his sister to see if she would be the first to speak. When he found she was instead concentrated on looking around the beautifully furnished room, he cleared his throat with effort to sound more proper.
"We appreciate you hosting us, ma'am. It's very kind of you when we're basically strangers..." Ben's softer reply made Ruth finally pay attention, her own lips pulling into a civil smile. She could be somewhat charming when she wanted to be.
"Yeah, it's nice of you. Takes a bit a stress off the whole...situation." Ruth's discomfort with even mentioning her parents death made it clear it was a sore topic, one she quickly tried to bypass by changing the subject. "I'm Ruth by the way. And this is my brother Benjamin." She gestured loosely to the man next to her.
"Oh--yes, we're Mary and Isaiah's children, or the late Leightons, as you may know them." He said, looking ready to ask who their lovely host was.
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Post by vamperious on Jul 12, 2023 19:56:39 GMT -5
Monica gave a soft look when they seemed a bit more easy going then she anticipated. She went about to get tea and coffee for them, offering sugar and cream. Monica settled into a seat across from them with a light akward smile. Noticing them looking around, wondering a brief moment if her house looked funny. She wasn't sure what the outside world looked like but she hoped her house was up to par. As the man cleared his throat she gave a small smile and a nod, " Of course, It's my pleasure. It's very rare we get guest from the outside." She stated smoothly since really she didn't mind, almost wanting to hear about the outside world...but would wait to ask. At the brief introduction she nodded," It is indeed an odd situation, but ita nice to meet you both Ben and Ruth. I am Monica Mason. I- umm I'm sorry I didn't know your parents. I'm a bit of a home body since my own parents went to serve the church last year. Been just myself for awhile. So don't feel uncomfortable about anyone else in the home. Please be at ease, as my two servents go home at night." She rambled a bit but she knew she was attempting to be accomadating. She seemed a little akward for a brief moment,"So I'm not the most practiced host so please don't be afraid to ask for something." She stated with a smile since she was honest about things.
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Post by kimcora on Jul 14, 2023 20:49:30 GMT -5
The twins settled in to their drinks, manners shinning through despite their discomfort. It was something trained into them from years of expectation and education. Their mother would have rolled over in her grave, a comparison perhaps insensitive to their current situation.
As Monica began to speak on the status of outsiders, Ben gave a small nod, curiosity gracing his features while Ruth hid her’s behind a sip of her tea. Odd, no visitors? Was this place that exclusive? Ruth had to admit it was odd they needed a letter to enter. And this place was quite pristine. Perhaps she could see more of it in time? While she was fascinated by the city itself, Ben appeared more interested in talks of this church. It seemed important if people could be called away to serve like Ms. Monica’s parents. Was it a staple in this town? It would make sense since their parents didn’t seem the type not to have a fanatical religion around…
“Oh well thank you for the assurance, Monica. My sister and I aren’t hard guests to please. We’ll treat your home with respect, right Ru?” He began and his sister gave a nod of agreement, her eyes drifting from a bookshelf nearby.
“You said that you didn’t know our parents? Not that I blame you. They were terrible people. But, then it wasn’t you who sent the letters?” Her question made Ben blanch, his eyes looking to his sister with worry before they passed back to Monica.
“A-Apologies. Ruth is a bit—tired from our travels. we can discuss the letters later. Perhaps a more..suitable topic like—um—about your home! It’s quite lovely!” He chuckled nervously while Ruth shot him an annoyed look for correcting her. She wasn’t a child.
“She said ask…” She grumbled, wanting to put Ben in his place but knew better than to do it in front of their host. It would be seen as rude and already she got the sneaking suspicion they were being judged and watched as outsiders…
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Post by vamperious on Jul 14, 2023 22:30:56 GMT -5
As they looked a bit more comfortable with their drinks she relaxed a little. When asked if she had or had not sent the letters she watched the woman panic a bit, making her wonder why. " No, I did not send those. Our priest Tias did. He is in charge of such things. I merely had been requested to host you both. B-but don't think it's an imposition as it is not. I rather liked the idea of company." She stated trying to make it not sound like the was volunteered to do soemthing. " Really, When I said to ask I mean it, Your sister is correct. I don't mind at all do no apology needed Ben." She stated before making herself some tea. There was a short silence before some one knocked on the door, causing Monica to jump a little. "Oh, one moment please." She stated before standing up playing her tea down and walking from the living room parlor space to the entry hall, opening the door. Standing there was Tias, the very one she mentioned before. He gave her a sweet smile. " And how are you today Ms. Mason?" He asked glancing into the house'not seeing anyone but saw luggage. "Is your guest here?" He asked seeming to want to be invited in by his body language. Monica gave a smile back but it was more reserved. " Yes, our guests are here Preist Tias." She stated smoothly jesturing for him to come in. Motioning him to the space they twins occupied. As they walked in, he seemed to wanted to make a joke to Monica- not that she really wish it. " Come now Monica- we are engaged-" He seemed to tease getting her to seem rather uncomfortable with the idea. " No- not yet I'm still deciding that." She stated before moving around him into the room with the twins. He came in, hands in his pockets- trying to seem not so intimidating perhaps as a newcomer. " Greeting Leightons. I am preist Tias. I'm glad you could make it. Your parents were big supporters of our original ideas here. Only now things have evolved into the garden...and your in time for the festival even!" He stated sounding happy to have new faces ~~~~~~~~~
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