Funny... I usually don't get this tired over what we did today. [ A beat. Two beats, as he carefully scoots in beside her to gently slip his arm around her. ] Guess it had to catch up to me at some point.
[ But while the fire continues to stay lit at such a small rate, Cloud feels a sense of determination wash over him as he mentally tells himself to fight back against the mental fatigue. ]
Wanna rest your eyes for a little bit? I'll keep watch.
[ Oh, she couldn't possibly rest while you're hard at work, Cloud. ): She shakes her head slowly, the hair on the side of her face barely moving this time because there's minimal energy she's putting into the action. ]
No, it's alright.
[ Despite what she says though, when Cloud scoots in closer and slips his arm around her, she leans into him. ]
Is it alright if we left this house once the rain stops?
[ No matter how late it is. ._. She just wants to go home, bro ]
Of course. [ He doesn't want to stay here any longer than he has to. ] Not gonna lie, kinda feel like just skipping the guild and just making a beeline home.
[ Can they do that? Can he just call in their report and claim their reward after? ]
[ When Ayaka asks him about a snack or whether or not he's hungry? He has to take a moment and pause, adjusting their socks in front of the little flame. At least it's not going out. But it's strange that it's refusing to catch any of the kindling he's set. Something that has him on the suspicious side before he finally answers her, ]
Sure. It's worth a shot.
[ He works up the energy for a smile for her. ]
After I'll go take a look out the window and see how the weather's shaping.
[ There's not much energy in Ayaka's movements. Her body is slow, but she still has the will to make sure Cloud is okay. It's what carries her to get up, bring her bag closer to their spot, and sit back down. Her short walk back isn't all that pleasurable though. She miiight have put a bit more weight on a step, and her foot ends up getting stuck between the wooden flooring, her falling on her knees and creating a small hole on the floor. ]
Eek! Cloud!
[ That certainly woke her up, at least! And she's quick to try and pull her foot out of the hole she's made. There are scratches on her ankle when she gets it out, and she needs some help in standing back up after that fall. ]
[ Heaving a sigh, he tries to reflect back on how their day had gone before the storm hit. Oversized rabbits...and baby ones that were the size of small dogs. They seemed to practically flock to Ayaka; the level of serotonin she induced would have been lethal for anybody lesser. And just as he was reminiscing, before he could relax further or close his eyes...
The window rattles close by. It's a short walk for Ayaka, but enough time for the acerbic swordsman to get up and feel the hairs on the back of his neck start to rise up once again. ]
...
[ His brow furrows, feeling another boost of energy that he could chalk up to adrenalin. More focused, he slowly walks towards the window...only for the sudden commotion behind him to cause him to nearly jump. Can somebody say "on edge"? ]
[ "Eek! Cloud!" ]
Ayaka!
[ He's certainly wide awake too. He's instantly by her side, kneeling down so he can get a better look at her ankle. It's scratches, but more importantly... ]
You okay? [ Whether she is or not, he wants to check something first. His touch is gentle, fingers gently caressing along any scratches. ] Doesn't look like it left any splinters...
[ No splinters, just scraped skin and scratches. Little bits of blood, but nothing that would be a cause for concern. Upon much closer inspection, there are marks on her ankle that might resemble teeth. She can't see it from where she is, and it isn't deep! But why would Ayaka get marks like those on her ankle?
She lets out a sigh before putting her palm over her ankle. Her healing magic is good enough that she should be able to fix this without needing to see a doctor, but it would seem that nothing is happening! Her magic isn't gone, but she certainly doesn't have a lot of energy to use it now. ]
My magic isn't working... [ That's odd.
While she isn't on edge like Cloud is, she does look to him for some help. Maybe he can use his magic? ]
[ That...is where he finds himself slowing down a little, tracing close to the marks on her ankle that resemble...nowhere near what scratching wood would be like. ]
Hang on.
[ Cloud's turn. He's from the same region as Ayaka, so his own magic and expertise should grant him healing magic too. It's convenient for him. He already had all the power he could need to fight, but the elements of Spring that stay with him only ensured he could keep going for longer. But as he makes a low grunt, his teeth grit momentarily as if it was taking far more effort than usual to tap into his power. But he succeeds in casting a soothing wave of healing across Ayaka's ankle, in the end. ]
T-There...
[ Suddenly, a wave of nausea and lightheadedness washes over him, which causes his breath to hitch as he forces himself to brace himself against one of his hands so he didn't fall over. Vehemently, he shakes his head. Something's not right. He shook off the bad feeling when they set foot inside this house because of her. But now? ]
...
Ayaka. [ A beat. He looks into her eyes. ] Can you stand now?
[ Depending on her answer, his next course of action rides upon it. ]
Oh— [ Ayaka reaches out to him, but a part of her is hesitant because she isn't sure she'd be of any help to him right now... She'd have tried to catch him if he toppled over, but at least he catches himself before he does.
Their eyes meet, and he'd see just how apologetic she looks from making him expend more energy for her. He said he was tired, and she's just making things more difficult for him. ]
I'll try. [ She nods, closing her eyes for a moment so she can gather the energy and strength to push herself up. Her ankles and knees wobble in doing so, but she manages to do it! Ayaka's not one to give up easily, especially when it comes to things like this. ] I'm sorry for troubling you, Cloud.
[ Walking is going to be slow. She doesn't think she has it in her to run, either. ]
[ Cloud doesn't let go of her hand as she rises back to her feet. He's quick to also dispel her apology to him. Contact in this world grants energy, even in little amounts. At the very least, it's a lifeline that can at least couple with the magic he used. He can push himself through it. If it means passing out exhausted when they make it home? So be it. He shakes his head. ]
Don't be.
[ The house they're in makes a long, low creaking sound. Like if someone were listening to a house settling but it was played in slow motion. He observes the hole in the floor where Ayaka slipped her foot through...
He can't be sure. He doesn't know what's happening entirely, but. Call it instinct. Call it being around haunted shit before. DFKJAH ]
Follow my lead, okay? [ As for why? ] We're gonna slowly grab our socks, and leave.
[ Rather than leave Ayaka in the dark or speak in riddles though, he keeps his voice down as his heart starts racing a little. ]
[ The creaking sound alerts Ayaka. It makes the hairs on her back and arms stand, and she looks around to try and find the source. It's delayed, but she finally, finally starts to feel like there's something wrong. Not on the same level as Cloud's, but she's getting bad vibes too. ]
Okay. I don't want to stay here any longer.
[ She doesn't want to tell Cloud that she's scared. She'll have to brave this! Starting by limping to get closer to the fireplace and get her socks. ]
[ If there's any solace to be had, it's that outside is going to feel infinitely better than what they were feeling indoors. Cloud can't place his finger on what's happening yet. A witch? Some spell this house is under? Or could it be... ]
Let's go home.
[ Cloud doesn't let go of her hand, supporting her even as she limps to get closer to the fireplace and for her socks. But as they reach for their socks... ]
!
[ The fire suddenly goes out. Unceremoniously so.
First warning. ]
Ayaka...
[ The lights begin to flicker. Another wave of fatigue washes over him as he instinctively reaches for his socks. He doesn't even care how they fit back on, partially damp or not. ]
Alright. You next.
[ He's going to help her get them back on, and quickly, kneeling down in front of her so that she can use him for support. This is unceremonious, but Cloud has to keep it together. He has to be strong. He has to stay focused for both their sakes...even as he can feel the wood beneath his knee splintering upwards, and jabbing into him. Her sandals next. His brow is knit into a deep furrow as he feels like they're on the brink of something downright terrible happening.
But it's not himself that he's so worried about. It's Ayaka as he can feel an invisible pressure bearing down on them. The atmosphere is shifting quickly. And just as Cloud ensures they both have their footing back? ]
[ The thunder that was once rolling outside has waned, the rain growing lighter too as the weather begins clearing up. But that only means that the nearby window is that much easier to see when it almost looks like the glass blinks. Slowly. A couple times. ]
... .... .....
[ The house creaks once more, as Cloud carefully, slowly rises to his feet once more. Holding Ayaka's hand, his free one slowly reaches back for the Buster Sword. ]
Do you trust me?
[ Rhetorical, really. But he also needs her to trust him despite what this might do to his own condition. He's already feeling like he's running on fumes as is. Like he's about to pass out. ]
We're going out the window.
[ He draws his sword. If she trusts him, he's going to need both hands for this one because regardless of what happens, they're going to need to move. And fast.
It's awake. Waiting for movement. Waiting for them to try and leave. Little does it realize...they're not making a break for the front door. ]
[ Ayaka doesn't miss the cue. The fire goes out and she turns to look at Cloud at the same time that he gets her attention. They have to stay calm and get out of here quickly, so whatever energy she has left? She uses to put her socks on with her beau's help. It's still a bit damp, but it can't be helped.
God, it feels like she's about to fall over from how weak she feels. She is absolutely tired, and any time that she'll be sitting down after this might also be an opportunity to doze off. All the more she must keep her eyes open! In fact, she nods off even while upright, but wakes up when Cloud says they'll leave through the window.
Okay. Sure. Anything to leave this place. She's far too tired to ask the whys and give any buts. ]
Alright.
[ But that means they could get cuts or scratches. Ayaka couldn't use her healing magic, but maybe it might be different if she tries the barrier materia to protect them? She lets go of Cloud's hand so she can try it on him, and it surprisingly works! Looks like sharing some touch energy has helped her some.
Ayaka trusts Cloud. He needn't even ask. And she's relieved to be able to cast a spell on him, if it means supporting him. She gives him a nod to signal that he can go do what he was planning to do. In the meantime, she casts a barrier around herself too and summons her sword. ]
[ Cloud can feel the familiar sensation wash over him. Bolstering their skin. Boosting their vitality. His eyes widen momentarily, and despite having the Buster Sword at the ready, he looses a softer sigh as he looks back to Ayaka by his side with a smile. That's the spirit. ]
Once we've got an opening, take my hand.
[ Because he's going to take the lead on this. But thankfully, with Ayaka having cast a barrier spell around the two of them, they won't need to worry about cuts or scratches. Or broken glass for that matter. Not after what Cloud intends to do. He has a hunch...and he's going to hate it if he's right. Facing ahead, the ground beneath them seems to tremble slightly, as if the floorboards were threatening to give way any moment.
Meanwhile, taking a deep breath, Cloud's grip upon the Buster Sword tightens as he crouches to brace himself, rearing his blade back up and over his shoulder. At the same time, light energy builds and manifests around his body, accompanied by trickling sparks of power. His body visibly shakes, as if he's using everything he's got to even attempt pulling this off. But Ayaka should know her beau well enough by now...
How limits were meant to be broken. ]
!! HAH—!!!
[ If there were anybody passing by outside, it would be quite the jarring sight. Calming weather now that the storm was gradually passing...peace and quiet...only for the side of the house to literally get blown open. A large crescent-shaped beam tears its way out and down the field after Cloud slammed his blade down with immense force. At first, the house does nothing. Almost like it was in absolute shock of what had just happened. As for Cloud and Ayaka? They have a very clear opening. They're not just going through the window. The window was gone.
Cloud kind of obliterated the side of the wall with the force of that Blade Beam. ]
Let's move!
[ Buster Sword in one hand, he reaches for and takes Ayaka's in the other. As he urges her to come along, the wall was already beginning to attempt to rebuild itself. The house itself may not make roaring noises or anything of the sort, but the disturbing tone of the way it CREAKS and GROANS was just the cherry on top for how messed up this whole thing was. They hit the grass outside, stepping over splintered pieces of destroyed wood and other various bits, Cloud gasping to catch his breath he otherwise would have never been out of before.
But the moment they were out? It almost felt like a night and day difference. He didn't feel any further drained anymore. But he also wasn't gaining anything back. So by the time Cloud and Ayaka stopped running to turn around, he squeezes her hand tight as he swallows to recompose himself. Just in time to watch as the Monster House quite literally grows a stubby quartet of gnarled legs and thick, branchlike arms that burst out the sides.
[ Ayaka has to match Cloud's pace when he takes her hand and urges her to go with him. It's not like she wouldn't, but the sense of urgency is far greater than what her body can physically handle at this time. Fortunately, she does not trip or fall over, but she does fumble for a moment before her feet start moving for her.
What she sees and hears next once they're out are disturbing, and no doubt would haunt her for the next few days. That, coupled with all that exercise and exhaustion she feels is just far too much. She almost—almost—wants to cry when the house they were just in starts growing limbs. She's never seen anything like it before! Neither here, in Nippon, nor in Inazuma. ]
What is that?
[ It's obviously some sort of monster, that much Ayaka knows!! But she's never heard of anything like it here! Normally, the threats people face in any of the segments are ghosts or animal-like creatures, so she's not sure what this is, exactly! ]
Were we inside a monster this whole time?
[ oh god she's going to throw up just thinking about it ]
[ Whatever fatigue he feels is effectively shoved to the wayside as the house lumbers, the rooftop shingles shuddering and rattling. It's slow, but it also appears to be glowing with a faint green hue of energy... ]
Would you believe me if I toldja this wasn't my first time?
[ Cloud lets go of her hand, taking a step forward and getting into a proper fighting stance as he steels his body to stop it from shaking from exhaustion. He'll push himself as far as he has to if it means smashing this thing to pieces. For all he knew...this could have been anybody else. It could have been any one of his friends. It could have even been Ayaka's brother— ]
Aerith and I took down something called a Hell House before.
[ Her skin is tingling from the fear, and she's also starting to feel even more lightheaded. It takes a lot out of her to calm herself down, but she also doesn't think that sitting down and resting at a time like this would do any good. She has to keep standing.
This is going to haunt her in her dreams, though. If Cloud wasn't alert enough and didn't initiate to leave right away, they could have been... well, they wouldn't be standing here now. ]
Cloud, maybe we should make our escape for now.
[ She feels absolutely weak. Cloud's doing well in wielding his sword and all, but Ayaka's also scared that they might be biting more than they can chew by staying here. It'd be irresponsible to just up and leave though, when other people could end up being victim to the monster. Oh, but maybe...
She releases Eevee from its Pokeball. It's just a baby, but... Maybe it can still help. ]
Ringo, you should be able to weaken the monster, right?
[ If they hadn't left in time... He'd be the one apologizing not just to Ayaka, but to her brother when they were revived. But Cloud never plans on letting that happen. Not ever again. Not to anybody he knows and loves, or even himself. For all intents and purposes? He would rise above it all if it meant pushing himself past his own limits time and time again.
Even if it meant he would collapse from sheer exhaustion and not wake for a days after this... He'd do it. If it meant that he woke up to see Ayaka's face again because of something he accomplished. So when she suggests that they make their escape, he understands where she's coming from. ]
...
[ But, ]
It might get someone else before we can even tell the guild.
[ Which is why he prepares himself, taking a step forward before regarding Ayaka. ]
[ Gripping the handle of his Buster Sword tight, his brow furrows as he watches Pikachu bravely rush into action. But instead of staying on the ground and just loosing a Thundershock attack like he thought it'd usually do...
It jumps into the air, body enveloped with a thin yet jagged layer of electricity as it surges throughout its body. Until the energy collects towards the tip of its tail where a bright ball of lightning forms.
"Pikapikapika...!!" ]
What the-
[ "—CHU!!" ]
[ When did he learn that?! But given how slow the house was in comparison to the zippy mouse, and how it was soaked by the rain? That was only going to make the Electro Ball attack that much stronger when it hits. The monster's "wooden" joints creak and groan as it stumbles, its front legs giving out on it as lines of electricity run along its bulky frame.
When Pikachu lands on its feet again, it continues to growl, preparing itself to attack again. ]
Pikachu, come back!
[ Cloud waits for Ringo too, before he can push himself to try and finish this in one blow. Drawing this out wouldn't be good. ]
[ Ayaka's only sorry she can't do much at this time. She's not even sure if she has the strength to lift her sword. She can at least do this much: ]
Ringo, do your best.
[ Just in time for him to summon Pikachu, too. It won't just be Cloud fighting this time, what with Pikachu's own attacks and Eevee basically debuffing the enemy. He doesn't stray very far, just close enough for his own attacks to work, before running back to be by Ayaka's side. ]
Please be careful, Cloud!
[ If they aren't going to make their escape, then hopefully he can take care in trying to take this monster down. It's been weakened some thanks to Pikachu, so while it thrashes and growls, it wouldn't be able to move quickly anymore. ]
[ What matters the most is getting out of this alive. Whether Cloud was the weaker one or vice versa, at the end of the day...he wants to take Ayaka home. That's all he can think about now. That's all, in this moment, that he cares about now. And so, with Pikachu obeying his trainer and falling back after he and Ringo have done their part, it's time for Cloud to play his part.
[ No matter the cost to him. And the look in his eyes is an old one. A cold one. The very same cold, calculated, SOLDIER-like eyes that scared Tifa. He's come a long way from the days of perusing Wall Market with Aerith and throwing down in an underground fight ring. So while the monster is down and out...he's going to make sure it stays down. No spells. No magic. No use of the technique he'd honed between Nippon and here. Tried and true.
His grip on the Buster Sword tightens, knuckles rendered white as sparks of energy light the blond swordsman. As a byproduct of his affiliation with the season of Spring, the wind picks up with him, howling with ferocity as he empowers his Limit Break, and suddenly surges forward. There was nothing 'pretty' about this attack. Practiced as he was in the ways of Kamisato Art Tachi Jutsu, this was something he didn't bring Tsubaki for.
This required the crushing power that monsters envied. One of the last of his kind. The last of SOLDIER. And he brings all of it down on the house. ]
凶
[ Three crippling blows. Each one practically causing a combination of wood, glass and whatever else makes up the foundations of this monster. When the final strike lands, the entire structure of the house is almost toppled from the force of the wind-infused Cross Slash, the wicked Kanji symbol burning bright in the wake of Cloud's swings. There's no growl. There's no more thrashing.
The sheer force is like a trauma that'd be a miracle to bounce back from. And when the house lumbers forward, it creaks and crumbles, the wood that comprises the outside beginning to rot at a rapid rate. ]
Haa...haa...haa...
[ He swallows. But air struggles to reach him. ]
Haa...
[ Cautiously, Cloud begins to take steps back. And just when he's prepared to put the Buster Sword away... ]
[ He doesn't faint, but his grip upon the Buster Sword slips, and he falls right on his ass that's cushioned by the wet grass, the feeling in his legs like jelly after expending so much energy into a single attack. His Pikachu gasps, sensing that the immediate danger was behind them now as he runs towards his trainer.
"Piika pi!"
At least now the rain's stopped entirely. Give him a moment or two. He's running on fumes, but this isn't fatal. ]
[ Pikachu isn't the only one who runs. So does Ringo and Ayaka. She's still a lot slower though, and she almost tumbles forward when she finally stops and kneels on the ground to check on Cloud.
She looks back at the house, or what's left of it. It's still a little difficult to understand what just happened, but all Ayaka can think about now is how lucky they are that they're safe now.
Much as she'd like to leave, she doesn't think Cloud is in any state to be moving around right now. They're both far too exhausted, and even her vision's going blurry. It might be one last hoorah for now to pull Cloud to some shade and rest there, but when she hears a thump and some noises from behind the nearby bushes, the idea of resting becomes the furthest thing from her mind.
A horse— or rather, what looks like a horse— with wings emerges from behind the bushes and the trees. Did it sense that she and Cloud needed help? Ayaka had made a bond with the pegasus, alongside Yoimiya, a few months ago. ]
Tsubasa... [ Okay, this might work out after all. ] Can you help us? We need to go back to the city.
[ Just a little longer, Cloud. She squeezes his hand to get his attention. Hopefully he can still stand. ]
Tsubasa is a friend, [ she tells him. ] We'll be safe.
[ Pikachu is the first one to arrive, ears tucked back and looking all the more worried about his Trainer's condition. But luckily for everyone involved... ]
When were you gonna tell me you could do that?
[ Patting the mouse's head, Pikachu seems to instantly light up at the compliment, hopping into Cloud's lap instantly.
[ But Ayaka doesn't seem afraid or worried. In fact... ]
Tsubasa?
[ Ayaka gets a squeeze right back. He's here. He's still here. Tired and exhausted, but he thinks that he can push himself a little more. Any longer in that house and things would be very, very different. Sighing, he wears a tired smile as he looks to Ayaka at his side, preparing himself to get to his feet. ]
Looks way friendlier.
[ Than the Hell House?! Understatement. But even now, he dryly tries to lift the mood of the situation. ]
![[personal profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/silk/identity/user.png)
timeasmymeasure
no subject
Date: 2023-10-17 05:34 am (UTC)[ But while the fire continues to stay lit at such a small rate, Cloud feels a sense of determination wash over him as he mentally tells himself to fight back against the mental fatigue. ]
Wanna rest your eyes for a little bit? I'll keep watch.
[ And keep his ears tuned. ]
no subject
Date: 2023-10-17 06:09 am (UTC)No, it's alright.
[ Despite what she says though, when Cloud scoots in closer and slips his arm around her, she leans into him. ]
Is it alright if we left this house once the rain stops?
[ No matter how late it is. ._. She just wants to go home, bro ]
no subject
Date: 2023-10-17 06:58 am (UTC)[ Can they do that? Can he just call in their report and claim their reward after? ]
We'll play it by ear.
no subject
Date: 2023-10-17 07:42 am (UTC)[ u_u so yes. Here's hoping the rain stops soon. ]
Are you hungry? That might give you some energy.
[ They still have some stuff in their bento leftover. Just a little! ]
no subject
Date: 2023-10-20 04:49 am (UTC)[ When Ayaka asks him about a snack or whether or not he's hungry? He has to take a moment and pause, adjusting their socks in front of the little flame. At least it's not going out. But it's strange that it's refusing to catch any of the kindling he's set. Something that has him on the suspicious side before he finally answers her, ]
Sure. It's worth a shot.
[ He works up the energy for a smile for her. ]
After I'll go take a look out the window and see how the weather's shaping.
no subject
Date: 2023-10-20 04:49 pm (UTC)[ There's not much energy in Ayaka's movements. Her body is slow, but she still has the will to make sure Cloud is okay. It's what carries her to get up, bring her bag closer to their spot, and sit back down. Her short walk back isn't all that pleasurable though. She miiight have put a bit more weight on a step, and her foot ends up getting stuck between the wooden flooring, her falling on her knees and creating a small hole on the floor. ]
Eek! Cloud!
[ That certainly woke her up, at least! And she's quick to try and pull her foot out of the hole she's made. There are scratches on her ankle when she gets it out, and she needs some help in standing back up after that fall. ]
no subject
Date: 2023-10-21 07:31 am (UTC)The window rattles close by. It's a short walk for Ayaka, but enough time for the acerbic swordsman to get up and feel the hairs on the back of his neck start to rise up once again. ]
...
[ His brow furrows, feeling another boost of energy that he could chalk up to adrenalin. More focused, he slowly walks towards the window...only for the sudden commotion behind him to cause him to nearly jump. Can somebody say "on edge"? ]
[ "Eek! Cloud!" ]
Ayaka!
[ He's certainly wide awake too. He's instantly by her side, kneeling down so he can get a better look at her ankle. It's scratches, but more importantly... ]
You okay? [ Whether she is or not, he wants to check something first. His touch is gentle, fingers gently caressing along any scratches. ] Doesn't look like it left any splinters...
no subject
Date: 2023-10-21 08:40 am (UTC)[ No splinters, just scraped skin and scratches. Little bits of blood, but nothing that would be a cause for concern. Upon much closer inspection, there are marks on her ankle that might resemble teeth. She can't see it from where she is, and it isn't deep! But why would Ayaka get marks like those on her ankle?
She lets out a sigh before putting her palm over her ankle. Her healing magic is good enough that she should be able to fix this without needing to see a doctor, but it would seem that nothing is happening! Her magic isn't gone, but she certainly doesn't have a lot of energy to use it now. ]
My magic isn't working... [ That's odd.
While she isn't on edge like Cloud is, she does look to him for some help. Maybe he can use his magic? ]
no subject
Date: 2023-10-22 01:43 am (UTC)Hang on.
[ Cloud's turn. He's from the same region as Ayaka, so his own magic and expertise should grant him healing magic too. It's convenient for him. He already had all the power he could need to fight, but the elements of Spring that stay with him only ensured he could keep going for longer. But as he makes a low grunt, his teeth grit momentarily as if it was taking far more effort than usual to tap into his power. But he succeeds in casting a soothing wave of healing across Ayaka's ankle, in the end. ]
T-There...
[ Suddenly, a wave of nausea and lightheadedness washes over him, which causes his breath to hitch as he forces himself to brace himself against one of his hands so he didn't fall over. Vehemently, he shakes his head. Something's not right. He shook off the bad feeling when they set foot inside this house because of her. But now? ]
...
Ayaka. [ A beat. He looks into her eyes. ] Can you stand now?
[ Depending on her answer, his next course of action rides upon it. ]
no subject
Date: 2023-10-22 04:54 am (UTC)Their eyes meet, and he'd see just how apologetic she looks from making him expend more energy for her. He said he was tired, and she's just making things more difficult for him. ]
I'll try. [ She nods, closing her eyes for a moment so she can gather the energy and strength to push herself up. Her ankles and knees wobble in doing so, but she manages to do it! Ayaka's not one to give up easily, especially when it comes to things like this. ] I'm sorry for troubling you, Cloud.
[ Walking is going to be slow. She doesn't think she has it in her to run, either. ]
no subject
Date: 2023-10-23 06:34 am (UTC)Don't be.
[ The house they're in makes a long, low creaking sound. Like if someone were listening to a house settling but it was played in slow motion. He observes the hole in the floor where Ayaka slipped her foot through...
He can't be sure. He doesn't know what's happening entirely, but. Call it instinct.
Call it being around haunted shit before. DFKJAH]Follow my lead, okay? [ As for why? ] We're gonna slowly grab our socks, and leave.
[ Rather than leave Ayaka in the dark or speak in riddles though, he keeps his voice down as his heart starts racing a little. ]
Something's not right.
no subject
Date: 2023-10-23 07:43 am (UTC)Okay. I don't want to stay here any longer.
[ She doesn't want to tell Cloud that she's scared. She'll have to brave this! Starting by limping to get closer to the fireplace and get her socks. ]
1/2
Date: 2023-10-24 05:03 am (UTC)Let's go home.
[ Cloud doesn't let go of her hand, supporting her even as she limps to get closer to the fireplace and for her socks. But as they reach for their socks... ]
!
[ The fire suddenly goes out. Unceremoniously so.
First warning. ]
Ayaka...
[ The lights begin to flicker. Another wave of fatigue washes over him as he instinctively reaches for his socks. He doesn't even care how they fit back on, partially damp or not. ]
Alright. You next.
[ He's going to help her get them back on, and quickly, kneeling down in front of her so that she can use him for support. This is unceremonious, but Cloud has to keep it together. He has to be strong. He has to stay focused for both their sakes...even as he can feel the wood beneath his knee splintering upwards, and jabbing into him. Her sandals next. His brow is knit into a deep furrow as he feels like they're on the brink of something downright terrible happening.
But it's not himself that he's so worried about. It's Ayaka as he can feel an invisible pressure bearing down on them. The atmosphere is shifting quickly. And just as Cloud ensures they both have their footing back? ]
2/2
Date: 2023-10-24 05:09 am (UTC)... .... .....
[ The house creaks once more, as Cloud carefully, slowly rises to his feet once more. Holding Ayaka's hand, his free one slowly reaches back for the Buster Sword. ]
Do you trust me?
[ Rhetorical, really. But he also needs her to trust him despite what this might do to his own condition. He's already feeling like he's running on fumes as is. Like he's about to pass out. ]
We're going out the window.
[ He draws his sword. If she trusts him, he's going to need both hands for this one because regardless of what happens, they're going to need to move. And fast.
It's awake. Waiting for movement. Waiting for them to try and leave. Little does it realize...they're not making a break for the front door. ]
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Date: 2023-10-24 07:42 am (UTC)God, it feels like she's about to fall over from how weak she feels. She is absolutely tired, and any time that she'll be sitting down after this might also be an opportunity to doze off. All the more she must keep her eyes open! In fact, she nods off even while upright, but wakes up when Cloud says they'll leave through the window.
Okay. Sure. Anything to leave this place. She's far too tired to ask the whys and give any buts. ]
Alright.
[ But that means they could get cuts or scratches. Ayaka couldn't use her healing magic, but maybe it might be different if she tries the barrier materia to protect them? She lets go of Cloud's hand so she can try it on him, and it surprisingly works! Looks like sharing some touch energy has helped her some.
Ayaka trusts Cloud. He needn't even ask. And she's relieved to be able to cast a spell on him, if it means supporting him. She gives him a nod to signal that he can go do what he was planning to do. In the meantime, she casts a barrier around herself too and summons her sword. ]
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Date: 2023-10-26 03:13 am (UTC)Once we've got an opening, take my hand.
[ Because he's going to take the lead on this. But thankfully, with Ayaka having cast a barrier spell around the two of them, they won't need to worry about cuts or scratches. Or broken glass for that matter. Not after what Cloud intends to do. He has a hunch...and he's going to hate it if he's right. Facing ahead, the ground beneath them seems to tremble slightly, as if the floorboards were threatening to give way any moment.
Meanwhile, taking a deep breath, Cloud's grip upon the Buster Sword tightens as he crouches to brace himself, rearing his blade back up and over his shoulder. At the same time, light energy builds and manifests around his body, accompanied by trickling sparks of power. His body visibly shakes, as if he's using everything he's got to even attempt pulling this off. But Ayaka should know her beau well enough by now...
How limits were meant to be broken. ]
!! HAH—!!!
[ If there were anybody passing by outside, it would be quite the jarring sight. Calming weather now that the storm was gradually passing...peace and quiet...only for the side of the house to literally get blown open. A large crescent-shaped beam tears its way out and down the field after Cloud slammed his blade down with immense force. At first, the house does nothing. Almost like it was in absolute shock of what had just happened. As for Cloud and Ayaka? They have a very clear opening. They're not just going through the window. The window was gone.
Cloud kind of obliterated the side of the wall with the force of that Blade Beam. ]
Let's move!
[ Buster Sword in one hand, he reaches for and takes Ayaka's in the other. As he urges her to come along, the wall was already beginning to attempt to rebuild itself. The house itself may not make roaring noises or anything of the sort, but the disturbing tone of the way it CREAKS and GROANS was just the cherry on top for how messed up this whole thing was. They hit the grass outside, stepping over splintered pieces of destroyed wood and other various bits, Cloud gasping to catch his breath he otherwise would have never been out of before.
But the moment they were out? It almost felt like a night and day difference. He didn't feel any further drained anymore. But he also wasn't gaining anything back. So by the time Cloud and Ayaka stopped running to turn around, he squeezes her hand tight as he swallows to recompose himself. Just in time to watch as the Monster House quite literally grows a stubby quartet of gnarled legs and thick, branchlike arms that burst out the sides.
Pardon your beau, Ayaka, but... ]
Son of a bitch. How'd I know?
[ This wasn't his first Rodeo. ]
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Date: 2023-10-26 03:12 pm (UTC)What she sees and hears next once they're out are disturbing, and no doubt would haunt her for the next few days. That, coupled with all that exercise and exhaustion she feels is just far too much. She almost—almost—wants to cry when the house they were just in starts growing limbs. She's never seen anything like it before! Neither here, in Nippon, nor in Inazuma. ]
What is that?
[ It's obviously some sort of monster, that much Ayaka knows!! But she's never heard of anything like it here! Normally, the threats people face in any of the segments are ghosts or animal-like creatures, so she's not sure what this is, exactly! ]
Were we inside a monster this whole time?
[ oh god she's going to throw up just thinking about it ]
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Date: 2023-10-30 06:43 am (UTC)Would you believe me if I toldja this wasn't my first time?
[ Cloud lets go of her hand, taking a step forward and getting into a proper fighting stance as he steels his body to stop it from shaking from exhaustion. He'll push himself as far as he has to if it means smashing this thing to pieces. For all he knew...this could have been anybody else. It could have been any one of his friends. It could have even been Ayaka's brother— ]
Aerith and I took down something called a Hell House before.
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Date: 2023-11-05 07:27 am (UTC)This is going to haunt her in her dreams, though. If Cloud wasn't alert enough and didn't initiate to leave right away, they could have been... well, they wouldn't be standing here now. ]
Cloud, maybe we should make our escape for now.
[ She feels absolutely weak. Cloud's doing well in wielding his sword and all, but Ayaka's also scared that they might be biting more than they can chew by staying here. It'd be irresponsible to just up and leave though, when other people could end up being victim to the monster. Oh, but maybe...
She releases Eevee from its Pokeball. It's just a baby, but... Maybe it can still help. ]
Ringo, you should be able to weaken the monster, right?
[ aka pls use Tail Whip ]
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Date: 2023-11-13 08:53 am (UTC)Even if it meant he would collapse from sheer exhaustion and not wake for a days after this... He'd do it. If it meant that he woke up to see Ayaka's face again because of something he accomplished. So when she suggests that they make their escape, he understands where she's coming from. ]
...
[ But, ]
It might get someone else before we can even tell the guild.
[ Which is why he prepares himself, taking a step forward before regarding Ayaka. ]
Stay- [ His breath catches, the house lumbering slowly but surely in their direction as Ayaka releases Ringo from its Pokéball. ]
Wait...
[ She's right. These creatures were capable of battling. In fact, it was just a natural aspect of their lives under the protection of some Trainers. Though not all Pokémon battled, it was in their very nature. Which meant... ]
?!?!
[ Without his acknowledgement, he feels the one Pokéball on his belt shaking before suddenly his Pikachu bursts forth from the ball. It must have not only sensed the danger, but that Ringo was out too. It lands by Ringo's side, hunched down on all fours with its tail raised straight up.
"Pika..."
There's almost a growl to its voice as its cheeks spark with trickles of electricity. ]
Pikachu...
[ They must have avoided the energy draining nature of the monster by being in their Pokéballs. He wasn't about to leave this to them alone, but, watching the 'shingles' of the monster dripping wet from the rain, Cloud realizes something. Despite the fact the rain and storming was waning, that still left the house that seems to radiate with a haunting energy soaking wet. Especially from being outside for so long. In that case... ]
Water conducts electricity! [ Cloud hasn't trained his Pikachu extensively, but his partner was still intrigued in what his trainer would do. It wanted to get stronger too, so it could protect everyone in the Kamisato household. He may not know much of anything about the world these Pokémon came from, but if his Pikachu is eager... ] Pikachu!
[ Gripping the handle of his Buster Sword tight, his brow furrows as he watches Pikachu bravely rush into action. But instead of staying on the ground and just loosing a Thundershock attack like he thought it'd usually do...
It jumps into the air, body enveloped with a thin yet jagged layer of electricity as it surges throughout its body. Until the energy collects towards the tip of its tail where a bright ball of lightning forms.
"Pikapikapika...!!" ]
What the-
[ "—CHU!!" ]
[ When did he learn that?! But given how slow the house was in comparison to the zippy mouse, and how it was soaked by the rain? That was only going to make the Electro Ball attack that much stronger when it hits. The monster's "wooden" joints creak and groan as it stumbles, its front legs giving out on it as lines of electricity run along its bulky frame.
When Pikachu lands on its feet again, it continues to growl, preparing itself to attack again. ]
Pikachu, come back!
[ Cloud waits for Ringo too, before he can push himself to try and finish this in one blow. Drawing this out wouldn't be good. ]
no subject
Date: 2023-11-26 12:23 pm (UTC)Ringo, do your best.
[ Just in time for him to summon Pikachu, too. It won't just be Cloud fighting this time, what with Pikachu's own attacks and Eevee basically debuffing the enemy. He doesn't stray very far, just close enough for his own attacks to work, before running back to be by Ayaka's side. ]
Please be careful, Cloud!
[ If they aren't going to make their escape, then hopefully he can take care in trying to take this monster down. It's been weakened some thanks to Pikachu, so while it thrashes and growls, it wouldn't be able to move quickly anymore. ]
1/2
Date: 2023-11-27 07:19 am (UTC)He'll have time to give his Pokémon props for his bravery... After he's dealt with this thing. He stomps forward, as the Hell House lumbers, its front door of a mouth flapping open and close. The haunting lighting inside flickers repeatedly, but if one were to look close enough, they'd see that the inside of the 'home' was warped now. Almost like it was bleeding crimson...with massive stakes that could run someone through with ease if they were pulled inside. No matter how they sliced it, they were literally within the belly of a beast. ]
I'm ending this.
[ No matter the cost to him. And the look in his eyes is an old one. A cold one. The very same cold, calculated, SOLDIER-like eyes that scared Tifa. He's come a long way from the days of perusing Wall Market with Aerith and throwing down in an underground fight ring. So while the monster is down and out...he's going to make sure it stays down. No spells. No magic. No use of the technique he'd honed between Nippon and here. Tried and true.
His grip on the Buster Sword tightens, knuckles rendered white as sparks of energy light the blond swordsman. As a byproduct of his affiliation with the season of Spring, the wind picks up with him, howling with ferocity as he empowers his Limit Break, and suddenly surges forward. There was nothing 'pretty' about this attack. Practiced as he was in the ways of Kamisato Art Tachi Jutsu, this was something he didn't bring Tsubaki for.
This required the crushing power that monsters envied. One of the last of his kind. The last of SOLDIER. And he brings all of it down on the house. ]
凶
[ Three crippling blows. Each one practically causing a combination of wood, glass and whatever else makes up the foundations of this monster. When the final strike lands, the entire structure of the house is almost toppled from the force of the wind-infused Cross Slash, the wicked Kanji symbol burning bright in the wake of Cloud's swings. There's no growl. There's no more thrashing.
The sheer force is like a trauma that'd be a miracle to bounce back from. And when the house lumbers forward, it creaks and crumbles, the wood that comprises the outside beginning to rot at a rapid rate. ]
Haa...haa...haa...
[ He swallows. But air struggles to reach him. ]
Haa...
[ Cautiously, Cloud begins to take steps back. And just when he's prepared to put the Buster Sword away... ]
2/2
Date: 2023-11-27 07:22 am (UTC)"Piika pi!"
At least now the rain's stopped entirely. Give him a moment or two. He's running on fumes, but this isn't fatal. ]
no subject
Date: 2023-12-01 04:48 am (UTC)She looks back at the house, or what's left of it. It's still a little difficult to understand what just happened, but all Ayaka can think about now is how lucky they are that they're safe now.
Much as she'd like to leave, she doesn't think Cloud is in any state to be moving around right now. They're both far too exhausted, and even her vision's going blurry. It might be one last hoorah for now to pull Cloud to some shade and rest there, but when she hears a thump and some noises from behind the nearby bushes, the idea of resting becomes the furthest thing from her mind.
A horse— or rather, what looks like a horse— with wings emerges from behind the bushes and the trees. Did it sense that she and Cloud needed help? Ayaka had made a bond with the pegasus, alongside Yoimiya, a few months ago. ]
Tsubasa... [ Okay, this might work out after all. ] Can you help us? We need to go back to the city.
[ Just a little longer, Cloud. She squeezes his hand to get his attention. Hopefully he can still stand. ]
Tsubasa is a friend, [ she tells him. ] We'll be safe.
no subject
Date: 2023-12-01 06:14 am (UTC)When were you gonna tell me you could do that?
[ Patting the mouse's head, Pikachu seems to instantly light up at the compliment, hopping into Cloud's lap instantly.
"Piiika...!" ]
Alright. Rest up. [ His hand trembles as he picks out his Pokéball, barely succeeding to even aim it right to have Pikachu return. And when he does, he looks to Ayaka and Ringo as they approach him. She doesn't look so good either- something that sparks her beau to want to get back up and shoulder her problems again. And he would have too, if not for the sudden rustling and thumps from nearby bushes. Gritting his teeth, he forces himself to try and clutch his Buster Sword harder, only to see that a winged horse emerge. ]
...
[ But Ayaka doesn't seem afraid or worried. In fact... ]
Tsubasa?
[ Ayaka gets a squeeze right back. He's here. He's still here. Tired and exhausted, but he thinks that he can push himself a little more. Any longer in that house and things would be very, very different. Sighing, he wears a tired smile as he looks to Ayaka at his side, preparing himself to get to his feet. ]
Looks way friendlier.
[ Than the Hell House?! Understatement. But even now, he dryly tries to lift the mood of the situation. ]
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