Harbinger of death from the world of witchcraft

[wavesoakedlegs]

Who: The crew of the Koumyou.
Where: Isla Empieza; maybe out on the ocean later?
When: From the 11th until the 17th.
What: The cursed, the uncursed and the influence of That Voice.
Warnings: Violence and general unpleasantness.
Style: Any!
Status: Mostly closed to the Koumyou; ask if you think you could get involved?


1. Strangeness begins
2. A Special Meal

Comments

Isla Empieza; Strangeness Begins

[aidreamofsenpai]

Aiichiro can sometimes be pretty serious about his work, and he's worked hard his entire time on the Koumyou. Still, there's something different about this particular bout of intense behavior. He's not doing some mundane task on the ship, not working on his self-defense skills, not practicing his swimming.

In fact, he's not doing anything particularly recognizable. He's storming back and forth between the ship and the village proper, wandering the docks, talking to locals only to wander off mid-conversation without any of his usual polite formalities.

He's also doing an awful lot of strange and random shopping. It's not that he doesn't have the money for it; he's only made minor purchases in his time in this world, for one thing. But he's gone from picking up spices for cooking to medicines to a new hunting knife to a suit of clothing that's obviously sized for Rin. He's taken out his journal and put it away again without writing anything, as well, as if he can't figure out what he should say.

Right now, he can be found walking back and forth at the docks, carrying the gym bag that came with him from home, and muttering aloud to himself. Getting a whole sentence out of the babble would be difficult, but there's an awful lot of "Rin" and "do something nice for" and "make senpai happy."

[collagehero]

[Have a nosy shipmate, Ai.]

Whatcha up to, Ai? Been shopping again?

[Hajime has been all over the place, so even though she's usually pretty observant, she really hasn't been around to see the changes in him. She's really only been returning to the ship to sleep or take care of any duties Motochika and Mitsuhide set out for her. The rest of her time has been spent visiting friends and adding to her ever growing collection of random odds and ends.]

[aidreamofsenpai]

[He probably shouldn't jump at her approach, but he does. It's hard to keep track of his surroundings with everything going on in his head, and he isn't really prepared for Hajime right about then.

He winces as the gym bag he's carrying bangs against his back with the little jump, and then gives a shake of his head.]

Nothing! Well, I have been shopping, but I was just looking for little things mostly, so it's nothing exciting... what have you been up to?

[wavesoakedlegs]

The strange behaviour of his young crewmate has not gone unnoticed; Mitsuhide has been concerned for a short while, especially with the strange warnings about what is to come in his mind.

This, though. This is especially worrying. Aside from the obvious adoration of Rin, Ai is acting nothing like his usual self. It's time to check on him properly, and so, after walking down the gangplank onto the dock, Mitsuhide approaches Ai carefully.

"Master Aiichiro? Is everything alright?"

...clearly it wasn't, but Mitsuhide wasn't going to be aggressive in matters such as this. In truth he doesn't expect an honest answer, either. But it's a good way to start.

[aidreamofsenpai]

"Huh?"

He's obviously startled at being approached, and he blinks up at Mitsuhide, his eyes rather wide. It takes him a second to realize what was asked, and he blushes a little.

"Um... it's... it's just that... Rin-senpai has been so upset..."

He shakes his head, not wanting to make that the topic of conversation really, but not sure what else to say. It's not like he can tell the truth, but he's not exactly good at lying either.

"I just keep trying to think of something nice to make things better..."

Under Sail: A Special Meal

[aidreamofsenpai]

Whatever has bothered Aiichiro lately, he seems to be over it. In fact, he looks completely at peace right this moment, walking out from the galley of the ship and looking around for someone to feed. He's looking for Rin, ultimately, but everyone has to eat, so he's going to grab anyone who comes by.

"It's a little early, but I've got some dinner ready! It's a really special meal..."

It is indeed a pretty nice meal. The stew smells delicious, there's a flaky bread that's a little flat but has a nice scent to it, and even a tart! He's obviously gone all out to do something that isn't the everyday fare, and he's just as obviously proud of it.

"I thought since I'd been being a little weird lately I should really make it up to everyone, so please have some!"

Guess he's crew now, right?

[thepurpleway]

Gakupo had never been on a ship before, so he's wandering everywhere with wide eyes and wonder! He spots a new face carrying some food with him. A special meal?

"Ah, it looks really delicious, but...I don't really need to eat food..."

HI NEWBIE

[aidreamofsenpai]

"You... don't need to eat food?"

Aiichiro doesn't really know how to handle that. In fact, he hadn't even considered it as a possibility. Then again, he hadn't really accounted for new crewmates in his plans at all.

It's a pretty big mistake, he thinks, and he's not sure how to fix it.

"Um... does that mean you couldn't taste anything even if you wanted to try?"

[behisstrength]

Motochika pauses, taking a moment to regard Aiichiro, even over the food -- after the recent strange behaviour, he has every reason to. What he sees apparently pleases him. He cannot deny that it's a relief to find Aiichiro peaceful, without a trace of that former agitation.

Motochika smiles.

"That is thoughtful of you," he says, finally lowering his gaze to take in the food.

It looks as good as it smells, which means tempting indeed, so there really is no other answer to give.

"So be it."

[aidreamofsenpai]

Aiichiro smiles, then goes as far as starting to serve up the food for his captain. Everything's going to be all right now, he's sure of it. He just has to get everyone to eat, and then everything will be just fine.

He speaks as holds out the bowl, a piece of bread nestled on the plate beneath alongside it.

"I thought everyone could use a bit of a treat. I've been experimenting with recipes, and I was thinking maybe I could even get Rin-senpai to try it if I made something special..."

[sharkasm]

It's typical of Rin that he didn't really notice Nitori acting any different. To be fair, he would have, under normal circumstances.

Normal circumstances don't include little girls being swept overboard and swallowed by a whirlpool that vanishes immediately after, and Rin being unable to save them.

Rin is never very social, but since Clementine drowned, he's resorted to his usual tactics, avoiding people as much as possible, refusing to speak more than two syllables at a time, and shouting and generally acting out when those methods still don't succeed in keeping people away sufficiently. But, by now, he's felt too much for too long; he's more numb than anything. Besides, he tolerates Nitori better than most at the worst of times.

"Right... Thanks." He really doesn't pay any attention to the meal, no matter how nice. He knows he needs to eat, that's all. If food gets brought to him, rather than him having to go looking for it, so much the better.

He's just self-centered enough that he doesn't even think it's weird.

[aidreamofsenpai]

"I... umm..."

He hasn't been sure how to approach Rin about his feelings. He knows that his senpai is upset over Clementine, and he is too! But it's not like he can do anything about it, and unlike Rin, Aiichiro doesn't really feel all that much like he should have been able to do something. On the other hand, maybe the voice in his head is just drowning out the guilt that should have been there.

"I made the bread myself, too. Everything. Here, I'll just put your plate together for you..."

He does so without waiting for confirmation, then holds it out. "Do tell me if there's anything I could improve on, but I asked around a lot on the island for recipes..."

Closed to Mitsuhide;

[behisstrength]

[It is perhaps an hour after eating Aiichiro's food that Motochika starts to feel mildly nauseated. He does not immediately worry, though it puzzles him somewhat; he merely assumes that there must have been a local ingredient in the meal that doesn't sit well with him. Poisoning does not cross his mind.

Nor does it stop him from spending time with Mitsuhide in their quarters.

Unfortunately there comes a point at which ignoring the intensifying feeling is impossible: he is in the middle of speaking to his lover when his stomach rebels. He only just suppresses retching.

The last thing that he wants to do is to be sick over Mitsuhide.

Motochika leaps to his feet, his shamisen and bachi thrown to the floor in a clutter. He can taste it at the back of his throat and feels the tumult in his stomach refusing to settle; there isn't a moment spare for him to explain. As swiftly as he can he sprints up onto the Koumyou's deck, crossing it in a rush, intent upon reaching edge of the ship. It's a close call, but he manages to hunch over the rail in time, and empties the contents of his stomach into the ocean violently.]

[wavesoakedlegs]

[Mitsuhide is startled at first; their conversation had been affectionate, the atmosphere peaceful, and he'd seen no reason to worry about his lover before now. It doesn't take more than a few moments for him to regain his senses, stand up and chase after Motochika. Worry winds its way into his chest, and when he steps out onto deck, that worry intensifies.]

[The sound Motochika is making is unmistakeable... something in his stomach has given rise to sickness.]

[Racing over, Mitsuhide only slows to a stop as he reaches his lover, and when he does he reaches out to draw Motochika's hair away from his face. Where did this come from? Was there something in the food that didn't agree with Motochika? It doesn't occur to him that there is anything really serious going on yet. Why would it?]

Lord Motochika...

[Mitsuhide's voice is soft and affectionate, but there is obvious worry there. He says nothing else yet, waiting for Motochika to stabilise first.]

[behisstrength]

[Motochika takes a shuddering breath and spits to try and rid his mouth of the aftertaste. He doesn't feel any better for having thrown up; if anything, he feels worse.

Still, Mitsuhide's hands holding back his hair fills him with a wave of tenderness.

He straightens up after a moment, though he does not move from the rail, sign enough on its own that he thinks he will be sick again.]

Forgive me, Mitsuhide. [He says, sliding his eyes shut.] It seems that Aiichiro's cooking does not sit well with me.

Gakupo and The Trouble He Invited (Jan 15th; Open to Crew!)

[thepurpleway]

Having found someone in trouble, he waits for them to arrive. There is worry on his face, because strange things were going on. He hopes she's alright.

[my_lost_heart]

With a new destination in mind, Haruka abandoned Isla Empieza and took her first trip through the Nav. Reaching the other side, she didn't know what to expect or what she might see. Hesitantly, she took a step away from the ship's Nav as she began to survey the scenery the Koumyou had to offer. She also hadn't a clue what her rescuer might look like.

"Is... anyone here?"

[thepurpleway]

Gakupo recognized the voice and sees the new comer. Ah, so she was cute! He gave her a light, charming smile before walking over to her.

"Ah, I see you made it!" His smile drops a bit, looking her over. "You're not hurt, are you?"

The newest recruit (January 15th; open to the crew!)

[360grabit]

[After having dropped Tao off at the Katabami and informing Mitsuhide that he'd take him up on his invitation, Tager made his way over to the ship. He wanted to meet the man and his fellow crewmates first before he made his decision fully, as he'd be trusting these people with his life and vice versa. They were no Kokonoe, so he was a bit hesitant, but he himself had said this was in his best interest. No matter what, he'd have to join a crew sooner or later.

Chances are, Tager's still on the docks making his way over to the ship, or perhaps he's already boarded. Either way, there will be one 7'10" tall cyborg around the Koumyou. Feel free to chat him up, or have him chat you up.]

1/2;

[behisstrength]

[Mitsuhide has told him of their newest recruit, and he is eager to meet the man for himself... not to mention that he's bored of being on bedrest. That is why Motochika waits sat on deck, idly playing his shamisen. He is still recovering from Aiichiro's poisoned meal, so his tanned complexion is paler than usual, and weariness lingers in his body, but Motochika's eyes are lively and his mien confident.

Between Clementine falling overboard, Aiichiro's madness, his and Rin's poisoning and the poor possessed young girl Gakupo accidently brought on board things have been difficult for the Koumyou, but they are enduring. The pleasure of new company is something to look forward to, a positive event that will help the process of restoring some morale.

Since Mitsuhide has been the one in contact with Tager, Motochika leaves it in Mitsuhide's capable hands to begin the initial welcome.

Naturally, Mitsuhide remains by his side.]

2/2;

[wavesoakedlegs]

[Mitsuhide is tired, and it shows; the black lines beneath his eyes, ever present for many years, have only grown darker during the past week. Too many worries sit heavy on his chest, and he has overworked himself trying to take care of the crew during this difficult time. Too many on their vessel are either in pain or still suffer, the work of that cruel witch doing as was no doubt intended.]

[The samurai is unsure about so many things, but there is one fact, at least, that he can be certain of; a new crew member could do wonders for their situation.]

[Right now, Mitsuhide is standing at Motochika's side with his hand resting on the sword at his side. He gaze shifts between his Captain and the shore, and it is only when he spots a very unusual figure indeed down there that he moves towards the gangplank that currently links ship and dock.]

I think that is the one we wait for... [He murmurs softly, just loud enough for his lover to hear.] My goodness. He is an impressive sight indeed.

[Had they met the cyborg during their early days in this world, Tager might have been an unbelievable sight too. However, the sea and the islands scattered across her have done much to open their minds to many things that once would have seemed impossible.]

[Mitsuhide stops at the top of the gangplank and raises a hand as both a signal and a greeting. When he talks next, he is a good deal louder; enough that their potential new crewmate might hear him.]

Master Tager?

[360grabit]

[It was about halfway up the gangplank that Tager heard Mitsuhide's voice call out to him. Looking up from his position, the only person he could see was Mitsuhide, as Motochika is on the deck further back, but it hardly matters. He'd be on the ship soon enough, despite his...less than stellar movement speed. And then he could meet his new captain. Truthfully he wasn't sure how he felt about that, but he'd learned long ago that sometimes your own feelings don't matter. Some things just need to be done...

A brief nod is Mitsuhide's first response as Tager continues to make his way to the ship.]

Just Tager is fine. But yes...that would be me. I take it you are Akechi Mitsuhide?

[A simple assessment, really. The voice was the same as the one he had spoken to over the journal.]

[collagehero]

[Hajime has seen a lot of things since coming here. There was the giant grumpy ghost pirate guy, talking ponies, an actual pirate with an eyepatch and a parrot and everything, magic food that appeared out of nowhere, a person who was a kitty (or a kitty who was a person), a boy who wanted to live in a bathtub, but none of those things was a giant red robot guy.

It's been a tough few days on the Koumyou sure, but nothing keeps her down long. Especially when, you know, GIANT RED ROBOT GUY.

She's polite enough to wait for him to finish talking to the captain and Mitsuhide, but all bets are off after that. She scrambles up from the pile of sailcloth she's supposed to be mending and rushes over the first chance she gets.]

HELLO UP THERE!!

[She wants to make sure he can hear her. After all, he's a full meter taller than she is.]

[360grabit]

[SUDDEN LITTLE GIRL?! Man talk about out of the frying pan and into the fire. It's like he's a magnet for trouble or something...

(ha ha ha)

Once his initial shock wears off (because seriously why is there a little girl on the ship) he does smile at her though. Oh Tager, if you only knew what's in store...]

Hello, little girl. Are you a member of this crew?

[It's certainly possible, he supposes. If this place could bring all sorts of people here, what's to say a little girl couldn't be brought here? And leaving her alone on the island would be a poor idea.]

[thepurpleway]

[Gakupo sees the tall man on their ship, and doesn't know what to do about that. For now, he's just staring.]

...goodness he's tall... [Gakupo is probably just a bit over six feet. Probably 6' 2"]