drowning S O R R O W S (open)

[LENORE MULHANE]

[atrb=style,border: 2px solid #000000;][bg=C4C4C4][atrb=border,0,true][atrb=width,450,true][atrb=width,20%][atrb=vAlign,top][atrb=border,0,true][atrb=cellSpacing,0,true][atrb=cellPadding,3,true][atrb=background, i56.tinypic.com/dfg9ja.jpg] And who do you think you are runnin' round leaving scars Collecting your jar of hearts words 759 tagged anyone music "half life" imogen heap comment angstttt~ The city was alive and bustling tonight. Bright lights and dark shadows bathed the people and the buildings. At her side walked Roman, her jet black Doberman, like a silent sentry. He was her only true companion now. Sure, she was in the military, but it didn't matter much. She had only joined because she was good at what she did; killing quickly and mercilessly. It had gotten her all the way up to Vice Admiral of the Ninth Division. She should have been proud of herself, but she couldn't seem to bring herself to give half a damn. Especially tonight, the night that she had lost the only other person she cared about. Had it really only been two years? It seemed like a lifetime away when she was contentedly spending her days and nights with her own pirate man. They had been childhood sweethearts. They trained together, played together, and had spent almost every waking moment causing some kind of trouble for everyone in a fifty mile radius. Through their teens they had been just the same, only in a more subdued way. Instead of running around and playing, they would spar with their weapons of choice. He had even given her a puppy, Roman, which she adored. However, like all good things, their blissful ignorance had to come to an end. In search of adventure, he set off in the dead of night with a parting kiss, and she had never seen him again. Rumor had it that he joined a crew, and she was delighted for him until it had come to pass that she heard he had been executed for piracy. Even now, her heart still broke thinking of it. Every other day of the year, she was emotionless. On this night, she allowed herself to feel only so that she could remember the pain. It was masochistic, but she didn't care. At her side, Roman snorted to get her attention. She looked down, not realizing that she had stopped some time in the middle of her thoughts. They always got her to do strange things, like remembering him would make everything in this time stop. She lived for those old forgotten times. Midnight swims in the ocean, sailing in the sea, and stolen moments touched by starlight. Reaching down a gloved hand, she patted his head gently to signal everything was fine. She continued on her way, towards a small tavern nearby. Walking inside, she took her usual seat at the bar beside the right hand wall. She didn't want to sit in the center because people constantly bothered her. She was wearing a skin-tight, black sleeveless dress, purple fingerless gloves, and a pair of combat boots. Legs were covered in black leggings. Roman planted himself on the ground next to her, laying his great form down on the ground to keep watch in case random people decided to come mess with her in her moment of solitude. The bartender recognized her, and brought over three shots of his strongest liquor. She thanked him, grabbing one and tossing it back like a pro. At nineteen, she shouldn't be drinking like this. Of course, at nineteen, she shouldn't have experienced this gravity of a heartbreak either. Oh well. Even trade. She let herself toss back another, relishing the burn on it's way down her throat. This was her night off from military duties, and her admiral had been so gracious to allow her the evening to herself. She didn't have to come back in again until tomorrow at around one in the afternoon, so tonight she was drinking to get drunk. She wanted to forget all the bad things, and only focus on the happy times she'd had with her fallen lover boy. After she finished the four shots that had been poured, she tapped the table with her finger. A silent request from the bartender to bring her four more. Always in groups of four. Some OCD thing, she supposed. Tossing two more back in quick succession, she waited to take the next one. She just held it in her hand, looking at the gold-hued liquid in her glass. If only forgetting was this easy. It didn't help that she was now in the military. It was like she was betraying him, had he been alive. Resting her head in her right palm, she sighed, as if trying to get rid of the guilt on her shoulders. What a disgrace she was, moving forward in something she really didn't even fully approve of.

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[JULIUS LYNN KHAYAL]

Wooden wheels cracked as the road split, the young admiral having the luxury of being carried on by a carriage, a marine guiding a pair of horses across the cracked stone streets. Julius' laid against the clear window, his lime eyes searching the empty streets for any sign of life. Though at this time, only the bars and taverns had company, most were stowed away at home, sleeping the night away. Julius let out a sigh of boredom, Illusia simply didn't bring the admiral any entertainment. Though a spark of life caught the young man's interest, tapping on the door of the carriage for the driver to slow down. Julius had spied himself a young lass with a hound, the signature mark of a marine enlisted in his division. "Vice-Admiral Lenny." he mumbled to himself as the carriage came to a stop. The young man slinging himself outside the vehicle, a hand holding him up as the female began to move again, slowly but forward.

The young male beckoned the horses to traught forward normally, as he stalked his prey, watching her turn into a tavern a short distance from the intersection she had stopped at. The admiral waving the carriage away, as he took a leap off, landing on the street in his typical attire, nothing near the stature of a admiral, just a simple t-shirt, necklace, and long pants. Julius quietly passing by several drunken patrons before finding the young women afoot at the bar. Laced fingers stealing the essence from the spirits in her glass, drinking several shots of the amber liquor before the admiral could approach her, a glass was flung at the women's back. The green knight lifting a swift hand in the air, catching the glass, and taking the sudden splash of liquor. His face soaked in the burning substance, however it didn't stop him from putting the glass down on the bar.

A hand landing on the right shoulder of the young women, knowing the hound at her feet was likely in full alert, ready to snap at her command. As both his hands found themselves resting before him, Admiral Julius seating himself beside her. The bartender awkwardly addressing him, Julius taking only a glass of water as he turned to look at the young women. "you know why your eyes are on the front of your head.

[/color]" Julius asked the marine, washing his face off, the stringing liquor no more. "so you can see the horizon, and keep moving forward, to remember the past, but not get lost with whats behind you.[/color]" Julius finished, most people drowned their sorrows in the amber substance latched between her palm, he could only guess she was doing the same. "or am I mistaken Lenore Mulhane." as the man had his own demons and past that he wishes he could forget, however he had not lost his reason to keep moving forward and find a new tomorrow.
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[LENORE MULHANE]

[atrb=style,border: 2px solid #000000;][bg=C4C4C4][atrb=border,0,true][atrb=width,450,true][atrb=width,20%][atrb=vAlign,top][atrb=border,0,true][atrb=cellSpacing,0,true][atrb=cellPadding,3,true][atrb=background, i56.tinypic.com/dfg9ja.jpg] And who do you think you are runnin' round leaving scars Collecting your jar of hearts words 718 tagged julius music "MAY BE" Yiruma comments yay posting Lenore let her mind wander, in it's now drunken state, to the others surrounding her. She listened to conversations about lost loves, lost ships, pirates, and ghosts. All in all it was fascinating, but she couldn't keep her mind on one topic for too long. It was like a lost bird, flying around trying to find a spot to land. She sighed, the weight of her emotions too much for that bird's little wings to carry. Lenore settled into her thoughts, to be alone with them for a little while. Eyes closed, the bartender walking over to check on her. He decided to leave the woman alone though when her Doberman began to growl. "Cualm daown boy," she cautioned the canine, and Roman lay his head back down on his paws. A pressure made her eyes open, albeit rather lazily. His face was all wet... That was strange. However, in her current state, she didn't really dwell on it too much. She only drank on this one night every year, so she was a lightweight to the extreme. His hand touched her shoulder and Roman stood from his spot on the floor, growling low in his throat. "I's ok boy. Heel," she commanded the hound, and he obeyed without a second thought. He watched the man though, eyeing him with his slitted crimson pools from his spot on the floor below his masters feet. She offered an apologetic smile to her Admiral. Roman got too overprotective when she was like this. It couldn't be helped; it was like he knew what this night meant. Julius began to talk to her, and she knew the words were meant to soothe her, but for some reason they just made her upset. She didn't let it show though. She couldn't. Showing weakness, no matter what the cause, was just simply not her style. Even in a drunken state she knew that to be true. "It could possibly be true, if what was in front of me wasn't so godforsaken bleak. The past is a lot prettier in comparison to dreary days." With that, she took another gulp of her liquor. Looking at the glasses on the table, she counted about eight. Or were they all hers? Hell, she didn't care. Sighing, she pushed them away. She was ashamed that a mere memory could bring her to this state. The Jay, as she was referred to by lower ranks on missions, was known for normally being a regular Ice Queen. No emotions ever crossed her face. Just look at her now, in this sorry state. "Sorry to be acting this way, Julius. I won't bother explaining. I know my behavior in unacceptable." She felt bad, but thankfully no one in this bar knew who she was. She stayed away from the main towns. Only the bartender recognized her here, which is why she chose Illusia for her yearly night alone with her dog and her drinks. One year, the last one to be exact, she was caught by Julius just like she was now. She spilled her whole story on accident, and then feared the loss of her job. Thankfully he was kind enough to let her keep her position, and as far as she knew, no one else knew about the love she had. It would ruin her for people to know she could feel things like love and remorse. Her reputation was at stake. Turning to him, trying to smile, she offered another apology. "So sorry, here I am all brooding. What brings you here Admiral?" she inquired, propping her elbow up on the table and resting her head in her palm again. It felt like her head weighed three hundred pounds, but she stayed up. She turned herself to face him, to hear what he had to say. How did he always end up bumping into her on her worst night? Only fate knew the answer to that one. Her black bangs fell somewhat into her face, and she blew them away with a stream of air. Pesky things, always in the way. Her concentration was majorly slipping. She hoped he didn't catch on to how much she had actually had to drink that night. Or at least not catch on to how much of a lightweight she was.

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[JULIUS LYNN KHAYAL]

The young lady quickly discovered the identity of her new guest, her own admiral sitting beside her as she drank herself into a stupor. The young man would baby sit her like had before a year ago, he didn't want the young girl wandering off, making a mistake she would regret, even though Roman would protect her. Quickly she dismembered his statement and told him what he was wrong about, the truth of his words dissolving into the liquor she drank. "there is truth in your words." he admitted softly, not raising his voice above a whisper for the vice-admiral. "though I disagree Lenny." her pet name made by love struck subordinates stuck to her. "god may have forsaken man, but your friends and Roman have not left you." he smiled genuinely, the young man smiling sweetly, closing his eyes. "after all, me and Roman are still here." Julius told her, not risking loosing a hand by petting the hound.

Though she did apologize to Julius, for her behavior, it was not fit for a Vice-Admiral. Someone who was in control of many marines and the protection of many lives. "we all make mistakes." was Julius way of letting her know he understood, and wouldn't condemn her this night. As a year ago the young admiral had met with destiny, and found her this very day a year ago, and listened to her drunken story of lost love. "no one is perfect after all, not even me." he said taking a small sip of her drink, it was dry and hot on his throat, but nothing he wasn't able to handle, noctis had him drink much stronger liquor then this. Though he understood why the women drank it. "you like this stuff.

[/color]" he exclaimed, mockingly sticking his tongue out as he put the glass back down.

Despite his distractions from the booze, she was concerned about his whereabouts, after-all what brought him to her. Perhaps it was destiny again that brought him out tonight to meet her again, or just simple blind luck. "I'm your one night stand." he let out jokingly to the girl. It seemed that way after all, the only night they ever seemed to meet in public without marine orders, it was kinda nice despite the liquor and meaning of the the day to the Lenore. "though truthfully I dont know, I wanted fresh air, being in meetings all day keep me locked up alot." Julius frowned, ever since he became admiral officials wanted to sit him down in their office and just blab to him. When it really didn't interest him, "though i don't mind spending a night with you a tradition.[/color]"
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[LENORE MULHANE]

[atrb=style,border: 2px solid #000000;][bg=C4C4C4][atrb=border,0,true][atrb=width,450,true][atrb=width,20%][atrb=vAlign,top][atrb=border,0,true][atrb=cellSpacing,0,true][atrb=cellPadding,3,true][atrb=background, i56.tinypic.com/dfg9ja.jpg] And who do you think you are runnin' round leaving scars Collecting your jar of hearts words 691 tagged julius music "TIME FORGETS..." Yiruma comments they're cute. haha. Her admiral continued to speak, and she listened avidly. Well... As avidly as a drunk woman could anyway. His words were kind, and she smiled as he spoke them. She was surprised that he considered her a friend. She assumed it was merely duty that ever brought them to the same place at the same time. Of course, there was this night as well. This wasn't in the job description, so what was he doing here helping her drunk self? Trying to console her on her darkest day? She didn't dwell on it too much. After all, every admiral was in charge of his or her subordinates. He was most likely here making sure she didn't make a fool of herself. It was just as well, she liked the company of someone that she didn't have to explain herself to. He knew her story, and was doing his best to set her in a better mood. She really appreciated the work he was doing. "We all make mistakes," he said to her. She gave a chortled laugh and smiled. "Don't I know it." He continued, her smile not faltering. It was a hazy smile... A drunken smile, but a smile nonetheless. He managed more of a response from her than almost anyone else. Then again, he had the advantage of her being intoxicated. "No one is perfect after all, not even me." She gave him an inquisitive look as he took up one of her glasses, put it to his lips, and tossed it back. She laughed, the sound languid and relaxed. Lifting her head off her hands, she gave him a nice round of applause. She only missed her clap twice. This caused her to laugh a bit again, this time a tiny bit longer. "I am such a mess!" she exclaimed quietly, almost to herself. He dissed her drink, and she stuck her tongue out playfully. "Don't hate on my drink, now. It gets the job done, clearly," she said, motioning towards herself like she was showing off an item in a store. Prime example. The next thing he said shocked her. Her one night stand, eh? She blushed, her face a bright scarlet. Turning from him, she looked into the drink in her hands as if it held the answers to the universe. She wasn't used to advances of any kind, let alone unexpected ones. Surely he was kidding. I mean, let's be honest here. She was so fucked up she hardly warranted attention from herself, let alone anyone else. Well... Except Roman. They had gone through everything together, losing someone they loved. He began to explain that he really just wanted some fresh air, and she nodded to him. That made more sense. Unlike his next comment. Her blush deepened, and she fiddled with her drink a bit more. What was she supposed to say? Looking up from her beverage, she turned to him with a joking smile. Her bangs fell over her left eye, but she didn't care. "Right, I'm sure babysitting me is just the highlight of your day," she said, trying to rationalize herself. Clearly he was just joking around... Wasn't he? Come on, what would this man, her admiral, want with her? She shifted in her seat, averting her eyes back to her glass so he wouldn't see her obvious blush. Something strange had gotten into her on this night. She sat, ears alert for his reply. Purple eyes gazed once more into the golden liquid, hoping it had an answer to all the questions buzzing around inside her head. If course, like always, what she sought eluded her. "Seems to me like fate keeps putting you in that seat once a year. I guess I'm lucky the seat's right next to mine." She smiled, still not looking at him. Something had gotten into her, but for some reason, she didn't mind. Shouldn't she get a chance to lighten up and be happy, too? Of course she did. That is why he was here. At least, that what she told herself anyway. As if fate was telling her to not be so sad.

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[JULIUS LYNN KHAYAL]

Lenny seemed to take his words to heart finally, as a dull smile appeared on her face. Julius knew her well enough to know her display of affection and pleasure was a rare sight. Lenore constantly putting up an icy front to keep her subordinates in order, not a girl to show weakness in-front of her marines and pirates. Softly interrupting him here and there, even taking a moment to stick her tongue out to him as he attempted to stomach her drink. "I imagine there are drinks that taste better then this young lady.

[/color]" he said, arguing with her playfully as Roman simply watch the patrons and Julius, suspicious of the Admiral around her master. Though the man did enjoy the sudden blanket of crimson that appeared on Lenore's cheeks. The Ice Queen heart could be pierced by a warm arrow.

Julius laughed, it was good to Lenore with her defenses down, she was a bit more fun when she wasn't worrying about her appearance. As Lenny finally commented on him babysitting her, and watching over her on this night. A simple smile returning to the lime prince, "oh trust me, this is far more exciting then filling out reports on the Grand-line, or perhaps new recruit forms, or even talking with the nobles.[/color]" Julius nervously shook to show her his discomfort with the corrupt powers that controlled the nation. "Though its my job to protect the people of the world.[/color]" he said nodding, looking at her as she starred down into her drink. "that includes you and roman.[/color]" he said looking down to the dog. Quite surprising the beast hadn't torn a piece of his leg off to chew on, or the signature clothing rip from the leg. "more so you then him, though I suppose you do love him dont you." he said softly, spinning his stool to look down at the dog. "as you dont wish to throw me on the ground and bite me.[/color]" he added, starring into the crimson eyes.

"though that does sound kinda fun,we should try that some time Lenore.[/color]" Julius said, trying to contain a smirk as he sounded serious with the foreplay. Though a hand reached down, telling himself this wouldn't be the last time he would have all his fingers. "and since you love him, I have to protect him too, no matter the cost.[/color]" he said attempting to pet the beast from the underworld before taking a stand from his stool. Taking a step or two around Roman to avoid any ill contact before leaning against the small divide between the wall and Lenore. "how about one of those fabled moonlight strolls that you girls always love.[/color]" Julius said softly, after all he came to get a fresh breathe of air. "I wouldn't mind a date, a three way I guess.[/color]" his eyes darted down to Roman. "I have to walk you to your quarters afteral.[/color]" he said quietly, the row of drinks before the lightweight was astounding.

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[LENORE MULHANE]

[atrb=style,border: 2px solid #000000;][bg=C4C4C4][atrb=border,0,true][atrb=width,450,true][atrb=width,20%][atrb=vAlign,top][atrb=border,0,true][atrb=cellSpacing,0,true][atrb=cellPadding,3,true][atrb=background, i56.tinypic.com/dfg9ja.jpg] And who do you think you are runnin' round leaving scars Collecting your jar of hearts words 601 tagged julius music "LITTLE BIRD" Imogen Heap comments they're still cute. The world was fuzzy around the edges. In her stupor, it was like they weren't even in a bar anymore. It was a strange feeling, but she liked it. "Oh trust me, this is far more exciting then filling out reports on the Grand-line, or perhaps new recruit forms, or even talking with the nobles." When he shook at those words, she laughed. It was a strange sound, like it hadn't been used in a while, but it sounded like little bells. If you knew her, it would have been an unexpected sound to hear coming from such a cold mistress. He said his job was to protect the people of the world, and she stopped laughing to smile. She shook her head, her grin seeming almost permanent. "It seems like I forget myself sometimes, in that aspect I guess," she confided. He reached down to pet Roman, and the dog eyed him but did nothing. Those crimson hues never left the admiral's face. When his hand touched the top of his head, the great beast simply sat there. Lenore hadn't ordered him to attack, and had in fact told him to not attack this man. To keep from disobeying his master, he simply stayed put. The man was quick to retract his hand, which made Lenore giggle. He stepped around, forcing her to swivel a bit to the other side of her chair. She was afraid she'd fall out, but thankfully she held her bearings long enough to come to rest 180 degrees from where she had been. Propping her elbow back up, she rested her head again trying to look like she was doing it to be cute when in reality, her head was spinning a bit. "A moonlight stroll, huh?" she asked, sitting up straight and pretending to pull out an imaginary book. She went through the motions of turning pages, and giggled as she did so. "It appears as though I can fit you right in, sir," she explained, acting like she was slamming the imaginary book shut. This act of hers amused her; she thought it was something very witty. Of course, this was contributed to the fact that she was pretty intoxicated. The liquor had hit her a few moments ago, and she was feeling a bit like a floozy. He offered to take her home, and she sighed. Yes, it must be that time. No more drinks, and time for the hell that would be her hangover tomorrow. She could feel it, like an ominous presence in her future. She nodded, turning to the bartender and pulling out her wallet. He shook his head, letting her know it was on the house. He was so kind. She'd have to come back here to tip him tomorrow. Now it was time to attempt the epic feat. Giving Julius a warning glance, she offered a warning of her own. "I'm unsure you realize what it is you've just gotten yourself into, admiral." Pushing off the bar, she stood and was fine for a few seconds, but as soon as she tried to stand on her own she wavered a bit. Instead of grabbing the counter again, she grabbed onto his sleeve and offered an apologetic smile accompanied by an embarrassed blush. How much had she really had to drink? At her feet, Roman stood and watched her with his ever-observant eyes. He tried to stay out of her way, crimson hues flashing between his master and the man. "Ok then... Well... How about that walk?" she offered, laughing a bit at herself. She was so awkward sometimes.

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[JULIUS LYNN KHAYAL]

It wasn't taking long to warm the soul of the young lass, she had lost alot in her short life, and it was understandable why she would be sad and hold onto those feelings of grief, like any human would. Though Julius would be this little vice-admirals hero, revealing his own history and feelings at the price of saving hers. "It's easy to loose yourself Lenore.

[/color]" Julius said softly, clapping his hands together in a simple fashion. "but I wont let you forget who you are.[/color]" as the women was far more important then she realized to her subordinates and the people of the world. Though he was spoiling her with all the kind words, but he did enjoy it. Julius was happy that the hound beneath him was kind enough to spare his life from eternal damnation and barking, allowing the admiral to run a finger through his thick mane. The creature was a tough guardian, and reflect the Ice Queens persona.

Though she wasn't done playing around, as she fingered a schedule in her hand made of nothing more then imagination, telling him that she would be able to squeeze time into her busy night to go on this walk with the emerald admiral. "I didn't know you were so busy Miss Lenore." he said back formally in a sarcastic tone, enjoying the joke from her drunken stupor. Though it was caught in that moment that he realized that she might not remember a single event of tonight, which took a knife to his heart, but he didn't show the sudden displeasure. Perhaps she would remember him tonight, or the events to come, though he knew he wouldn't forget. "Trust me, I've been in worse situations then a simple walk with gorgeous lady.[/color]" he said, waving his hands around a bit. Though the moment she tried to walk, she began to stumble.

The effects of the nights drinks taking full effect on her body, her arms quickly attaching onto his sleeve. Holding onto him as if she was about to slip off a cliff. "We can't have you getting hurt now, though I have an idea.[/color]" the lime prince's hands shifting from empty air to her palm, lacing itself quietly with her fingers. Holding onto her with his soft warm grasp, taking her outside where the carriage he road in upon stopped shortly ahead. A sudden whistle escaping his lips as the carriage turned around, the rider looking down to Julius. I hope you don't mind me stealing one of your horses.[/color]" the admiral asked, the rider laughing at the man's intentions as he released the leather reins, an ivory horse stomping beside them, now free. "Here we go." Julius said, putting his hands around one side of her waist as he lifted her from the ground onto the horse he just had gotten on-top of. Holding the young women against his shirt, another hand holding onto the rein close to the other side of her hips. "Sorry Roman, I wont go too fast.[/color]" he said as the horses trotted forward slowly with the two. "I haven't been to the lighthouse in years, its a beautiful spot to see the ocean and get a deep breathe of that open ocean air.[/color]" he said softly, guiding the horse forward at a fair pace, enough to have Roman follow with ease. His body leaning forward to steer the horse, slowly leaning his chest against the back of the young lass, his head beside her's to watch the equine's every step.

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[LENORE MULHANE]

[atrb=style,border: 2px solid #000000;][bg=C4C4C4][atrb=border,0,true][atrb=width,450,true][atrb=width,20%][atrb=vAlign,top][atrb=border,0,true][atrb=cellSpacing,0,true][atrb=cellPadding,3,true][atrb=background, i56.tinypic.com/dfg9ja.jpg] And who do you think you are runnin' round leaving scars Collecting your jar of hearts words 812 tagged julius music "WAIT IT OUT" Imogen Heap comments they're still cute. His word echoed in her head long after he had said them "I won't let you forget who you are." She was surprised that he would say such a thing; that he would care enough to keep her from losing the sibilance of happiness she had found in her job. Sure, she saved countless lives on a daily basis. There was a black half to her job description, though... One written in the blood of pirates. She didn't know what she would do in a situation where the life of a pirate hung in her hands. She would see not their face, but the face of her lost loved one. What would she do then? Answer the call of duty over her heart's wishes? She hoped she'd never have to find the answer to that question. Hopefully she could sail through her life, in charge of no one's life but hers and her canine's. Following orders is much easier than questioning her moral self. They went back and forth, laughing about her little imaginary schedule, and he said something else that struck her. "Trust me, I've been in worse situations then a simple walk with gorgeous lady." It almost didn't register with her at first, but when it did a scarlet blush spread even farther across her face; just enough for it to be noticeable. She wasn't used to being addressed this way, especially by her own admiral! It was very shocking, their little witty banter and flirtatious attitudes. Was this just the alcohol talking? Or did she really not see the sparks? Whatever it was, she hadn't noticed before tonight. If it had come from anyone else, she would know that this was all just a game to take advantage of her. Of course, this was her admiral. She knew he was trying to release her of her awfully depressed mood. It was really sweet of him. As they started walking, Lenore's admiral took her by the hand and held on tight. It steadied her, for the most part. At least, she didn't fall. He led her outside, and she was surprised to see a carriage parked a bit down the road. He asked the driver for one of the horses, a brilliantly while horse with a wide back and a gorgeous dished face. "Pretty..." Lenore whispered to herself, smiling. Julius got on top of the horse, and held his hand down to her. She lifted to reach for him, making a surprised "Ooh!" sound when he lifted her up onto the beast's back, in front of where he was sitting. She wasted no time in locking her fingers into the mane of the great beast. She had ridden horses when she was a girl, but it wasn't something she had the opportunity to do it much recently with work. "If this becomes common, I'll have to start practicing again!" she laughed, feeling safer when he wrapped one hand around her to keep her on. The gait was a bit rough on this terrain, but she remembered how to ride a sitting trot. It was almost like riding a bike... You never really forget how to do it. Her canine snorted when the lime-haired man said he wouldn't go too fast. To be a bit recalcitrant, the crimson-eyed Doberman made sure he stayed in front and to the right of the trotting horse. He mentioned a lighthouse, and she was surprised there would be something so serene on an island like this. The spires around her were clouded above with black smokescreen clouds. Above the buildings, she couldn't see the stars. How dreary. Soon enough, though, her eyes caught the tall shape of a white lighthouse, it's color stark against the blackness of the starless sky. "Oh wow," she whispered, in awe of the presence. Her eyes almost couldn't take it all in at once. As they neared, the ground sloped upward. She could smell the sea, breezes coming off the great waves and bringing with it a salty scent. The air was almost saturated with it. Each blade of grass was a brilliant green, surrounding them once they started up the little cobblestone path that would lead to the cliff upon which it was perched. The light swiveled three hundred and sixty degrees, alerting those in ships of the coast's rocky ledges. At it's base, in bright contrast to everything around it, bloomed batches of brilliant red flowers. That color brought with it a sting of memory for her lost love and his crimson eyes. It didn't linger long in her mind, the alcohol still running through her system making it hard to dwell on much of anything. "Julius... How did you find this place?" she asked in barely a whisper, afraid to be too loud and disturb the solitude of the lighthouse. This was a diamond in the rough.

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[JULIUS LYNN KHAYAL]

Lenore looked taken back when he lifted her up onto the mare, perhaps she liked the magnificent creature. As her own hands went to discover the soft mane of the horse, muttering sweet words near its ears. The Vice Admiral whimsically stating she'd train if this become a regular activity, "at-least once a year, I dont know if the marines smile upon me constantly stealing their horses.

[/color]" Julius sneered, it truly wasn't an issue, being an admiral meant he was one of the highest official's to walk in Illusia. Though even Julius had a slight mastery of the rein as the horse swiftly began to jog down the cobblestone streets. Roman, didn't seem intimidated with how close he was to her, though he was being ordered to be gentle. The hound quickly catching up to the horse, and following them from the right. "your lucky Lenore, he's very loyal and would likely protect you to the death.[/color]" limey added, as she discovered Julius hideout.

The ivory stone swirling up into the clouds themselves, the tower was Illusia past symbol of hope and pride. Though technology quickly triumphed the countryside, and simple structures like this lighthouse were long forgotten. The drunken queen was breathless, no words could describe the Eden. Lenny's words reaching the ears of the admiral, "easy." Julius told her, taking a step off the horses attire and taking a step back down to the earth beneath his feet. Julius hand slowly taking the women down, as the horse leaned down, letting her slide gracefully into the arms of the young man. "Just like this.[/color]" he said, taking a step behind her, and putting his hands over her eyes. The world around her fading from sight likely, as not a sliver of light came through, as he slowly separate his fingers, letting moonlight and starlight light up the ivory tower and garden. "Though, this isn't what I wanted to show you Lenny.[/color]" Julius whispered to her.

The admiral took a step in front of her this time, but instead of leading her forward with a hand, he knelt down. A single knee touching the grass, as his hands extended on either side of his back. "Hop on." he hummed, realizing how low to the ground his head was, and how close the doberman was to him. This was the point of no return, Julius would either walk away with Lenny within his arms, or be slayed down by Cerberus himself. Taking a deep breath, and compiling his composure, "I don't want you to trip, I want to show you a sight I haven't seen since I was just a kid.[/color]" he offered, his will adamant, he wasn't going to budge and let Lenore walk in such a state, with the alcohol in her she was sure to trip up the stairs, or loose her balance. "you can trust me." he told her gently, "I wont drop you." he finished, awaiting her answer and actions.

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[LENORE MULHANE]

[atrb=style,border: 2px solid #000000;][bg=C4C4C4][atrb=border,0,true][atrb=width,450,true][atrb=width,20%][atrb=vAlign,top][atrb=border,0,true][atrb=cellSpacing,0,true][atrb=cellPadding,3,true][atrb=background, i56.tinypic.com/dfg9ja.jpg] And who do you think you are runnin' round leaving scars Collecting your jar of hearts words 749 tagged JULIUS music "UNUSUAL YOU" BRITNEY SPEARS comments SORRY IT TOOK SO LONG Something twisted in her heart as he talked about her canine's loyalty. " "Your lucky Lenore, he's very loyal and would likely protect you to the death." She gave a faint smile, one he wouldn't see, and let herself relish in the little twang of pain. "Reminds me of someone else I knew, once upon a time. Right, boy?" The first sentence was quiet, more to herself than anyone else; her own private hell. The last was saved for her canine, who turned to her when she spoke and she knew she had his undivided attention. His stubby docked tail wagged, and after a moment he looked away. Yes, he did remind her of someone. In fact, it was the very person who had given the magnificent creature to her, back when things were much simpler. There weren't marines and pirates in her life, there was just the three of them against the world. Being slid from the creatures back took her mind back into the present. Julius captured her in his arms, and the blush on her wide-eyed face was unmistakable. He set her down, and she turned as he placed his hands over her eyes. "Just like this," he said, letting her slowly start to see once again. Just like before, she was taken aback by the swath of beauty and muted, but brilliant colors before her eyes. His whispered words felt funny on her ear, and she female giggled light heartedly. This was like one big mystery that was unfolding before her. "Well then lead away! What is this thing you are trying to show me?" she asked, taking another look around. At her feet, Roman stood as silent as ever. What an impassive dog he was when she was around others. She would have to teach him to lighten up a bit. Her face betrayed her confusion when her admiral got down on one knee before her with has back facing towards her. What was he doing down there like that? It didn't register until he said "Hop on." Oh... He wanted to give her a piggy back ride. She suddenly got uncomfortable, not wanting to be a heavy burden on him. "Oh, admiral, I just couldn't. I'm sure I will be fine walking! See?" she said, while displaying that she could walk... Passively. "You see? Just fine," she said, putting both hands on her hips. She was quite proud of herself. After all, the alcohol was partially wearing off and... Yeah! Not to mention she wasn't so sure about this. She could see this was more than friendly behavior. Was she ready to start all this again? Was she ready, mentally and emotionally, to try at this whole partnership thing? She didn't expect to have a relationship with her admiral. That was just... Oh gosh... Breaking so many chain of command rules it was almost dizzying. Not to mention, she wasn't sure if she could even feel anything anymore. After all, she literally had tried to cut open her chest and rip her own heart out. After she heard the news of her pirate love's death, she had gone ballistic. Her family hadn't known what to do with her... There had been all that blood... If Roman hadn't made all that noise to get someone's attention, she might have died right there in a bathtub filled with her own blood. The memory shook her, but a cold nose against her leg brought her from her memories. It was like the canine knew when she was being sucked into the past. He was always there to bring her back. Looking towards her admiral, she laughed. "I'm sure I can make it, sir. Just show me the way," she explained, her mind deciding to leave those thoughts for another day. After all, Julius had done so much in effort to keep her from being gloomy. The least she could do to show her gratitude was to cease from dwelling on it. Even though his intentions were unclear to her, she would just continue on from here. After all, was there any sense in mourning a lover that she had lost? Their love had been real, and had shaken her so greatly that it changed her forever. Was there any sense in continuing down this path, all alone forever? Surely he would want her to be happy, right? Once again, she shook the thoughts away subconsciously. Those would be saved for another night, and another bottle of gin.

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[JULIUS LYNN KHAYAL]

The offer was denied as his minor stood on her two feet. "you can only move foward.

[/color]" he mused, a meaning the drunk officer wouldnt likely loose in the magical night of liquor and adventure. Though Lenore was determinded to stand on her own, and follow behind the admiral. The Admiral took a deep breath, a gentle smile hiding his concern. "alright miss mulhane, please follow me." Julius proposed, grabbing a hold of the railing for the staircase that would be their next adventure to climb. As the peril offered hundreds of steps which the vice admiral would have to climb in her current state. Taking a sober look back to her, he began the walk above, keeping an ear on his lass. With any sign of trouble he'd appear behind her to catch the damnsel in distress. "we might have to make camp half way up, it gets dangerous after the half way mark.[/color]" he told her jokingly, as if it was a mountain climb.

Though the girl was not free of her own mental chains, as Lenore appeared to be in a world of her own. The discplined stare, empty curvature of the lips, the admiral paid attention to the vice admiral, her true feelings expressed behind the stupor of alchohol. Though her hound would make sure she wouldnt hurt herself, the beasts cynical stare at him, and his concerned gaze towards his master. "i envy your ability." Julius said underneath his breath, likely the demon would here it with its superiour hearing. Though nature was not going to agree with the admiral tonight as the signs of civilization were now gone. However the low set of clouds was consuming the peak of the lighthouse. "Their is a tragic tale" the captain suddenly broke his attention from the lighthouse to Lenore. "a story thats tale takes place atop this very lighthouse, it goes, their once was a child, small, innocent and kind."[/color]" Julius told her, his eyes closed, each stone stepped etched into memory.

"The child was blind to the realitly of the world. Often wondering off from his parents and family. One day that child wandered to this very ivory lighthouse.[/color]" he smiled, his hand gliding up the railing as they ascended closer to the top of the lighthouse. "however the day the child has found himself here, Illusia found itself in the heart of a storm. Little did the child know of the coming danger, though the child climbed the stairs in curiosity.[/color]" his tone gentle, a great storyteller Julius was, after reading all the military reports and stories. " As the boy reached the highest point, the young child found himself staring down a feral shadow. A creature hissing and prowling near the very light that casts its beam out to sea.[/color]" the admiral stated, his hands mimicing the actions of the child. "The beast struck, a claw striking the cheek of the child, however the boy did not cry nor fight back, he simply embraced the feline in a gentle embrace."

The two were reaching the last segement of stairs to the top of the tower, "the child showed no hate towards the cat, and the neko struck softly however the child did nothing but smile, the injured and abondended creature had found his first friend and the child a new companion. Though the magical moment wouldnt last long, as the storm suddenly turned the sky dark and began the torrent of rain. The cat quickly darted to the front of the tower, where the sun had been gently caressing, revealing a nest, the feline was a mother. The child watched as the mother stood of her kittens protecting them as the rain began to soak her fur.[/color]" Julius continued, taking a breathe here and there to continue adressing the story. "The boy quickly rushed down the stairs, looking to help the mommy, finding a massive leaf from a shrub, tearing it out with all his might before attempting to climb the tower. THe child falling from the winds, marking his knees and elbow, but no wound stopped the child. Climbing the stairs inch by inch until he reached the top, the lightining shooting down from the heavens."

Julius slowed down, as they reached the last several steps, "the child took a crouched dash towards the heart of the lighthouse with the leaves he had, crawling up to the mother and using the leaf to cover her and himself. Covering them from the rain and wind. The pair sharing their warmth with one another as the weather came over Illusia. The child falling asleep beside the neko. As he awoke to the sight of the open water, clear as glass, as not a single ripple could be seen, the sky open, empty of clouds. The sun bathing them in gentle heat." Julius said reaching the last step to the top, "However the storm may have passed the danger had not, as a snarl came from the stairs, a wild monster barked at them. A wolf hungry and evicted from the weather had folllowed the scent of the child and moist kittens. Finding its meal at the top of the stairs, the child found out the meaning of fear at that very moment as it consumed him. However the mother found a courage most marines would envy, standing on all fours and hissing back.[/color]" he told Lenore.

"The child watched helplessly as the wolve came closer and closer to the nest and the mother. However the wolf though the child would make the better meal as it began its charge toward him in like a bullet. The mother would not have this as it leapt straight for the throught and eyes of the beast, striking it with all its might, the animals rolling across the top of the lighthouse as they screamed and fought with each other. THe cat completly outmatched by the size of the beast, however it would protect its family, and with that gave all it had to keep them safe. As it pounced the wolf, striking a soft spot and pushing the wolf to the edge of the lighthouse. Using the last of the mothers strength it pushed the beast off, using itself as the weight bringing it down.[/b]" Julius took the final step, the man looking before them as the beam of light shot from the lighthouse.

"The child watched as his new friend sacraficed herself to protect him and the kittens. And the child eyes welled up with tears as the kittens mewled for their mother, the child crawling to them and holding them against his torn short. The child learned the meaning of protecting someone important, and we should all learn from the childs kindness, the mothers bravery, and the sacrafice she made. And with that the child carried the kittens against his chest as he stood near the railing. Raising the kittens as he grew up, returning to this spot years later, making a promise, saying,[/color]" the admiral said as he stood atop the lighthouse, walking five feet to the center of the lighthouse, small grains of straw near his feet. "I will never forget." his hand weakly bracing the railing before them. The admiral growing quiet as he closed his eyes, giving the location a moment of silence. "the child grew up, and became a marine, vowing to protect those in need." he finished, looking at the clouds obscuring his vision. What a dreadful night to bring Lenore here, as they couldnt see the ocean through the pitch dark clouds, however the fresh ocean air and the stars above broke through the clouds. However the admiral had an idea, but it would have to wait until Lenore responded.

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[LENORE MULHANE]

[atrb=style,border: 2px solid #000000;][bg=C4C4C4][atrb=border,0,true][atrb=width,450,true][atrb=width,20%][atrb=vAlign,top][atrb=border,0,true][atrb=cellSpacing,0,true][atrb=cellPadding,3,true][atrb=background, i56.tinypic.com/dfg9ja.jpg] And who do you think you are runnin' round leaving scars Collecting your jar of hearts words NOT DONE tagged JULIUS music "JAR OF HEARTS" CHRISTINA PERRI comments WOOP WOOP POST COMING

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