Priest in pocket † Blade to the heat



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Jokerman





vicar villain vigilante






Profile

The Crosshairs
Goes by... Jokerman, JM, Jo
Species... Greater Kudu
Age... Adult
Size... (link)
Scent... Highly varied.Some vague, earthy elements. Comprised of distinct components that can be muted or brought out to change its very nature. Can convincingly change or mask her scent when desired.
Notably devoid of other deer.

Pheromones... Truly androgynous; feminine and masculine qualities.And noticeably calm, even in high-stress situations.
Speech... A lower-register, slightly monotonous rasp that tends to become hushed or rapid. Hints at several accents including Earth Gaelic. #A80813/#DEDED3


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10 . 03 . 14


Saved, yet again, by Zombies...


10 . 03 . 14

10 . 03 . 14

WILL THIS EVER BE UPDATED AGAIN?

Last update Rossamund was still dead ffs.

The first time.

Fuuuuck.

Little self-reminder/MOTIVATION to at least go and try to archive as many RPs as possible before Skype deletes them so I can actually remember what happened when I do get around to it.

STILL LOVE YOU, CRAZYBITCH. I'M SORRY.

least you get a bio tho




Doing everything in her power to keep her presence in the Forest lightly-felt and difficult to trace, but inevitably brought out of her seclusion on a few noteworthy occasions.

Reunited with Castallion when she first caught scent of the buck, glad to see he was in as great as shape as ever (and just as colorful in personality as appearance). Tended as much to Rossamund as she could, finding the boy needed counseling through an admittedly difficult chapter of his time in the forest. Tried to work with him on fighting in his ghost form and encountered a hostile June during one their sessions. Spoke with the Rabbit and attempted to diffuse a little of the ire she understandably felt for both of them, succeeding on a few small points she felt. Vowed to take advantage of what communication had been established to try to follow through on it in the future, and from that could only strongly advise Rossamund on how to handle interactions if he valued having a chance of a relationship with his "sister." (It seemed he had been stalking a few of her friends. No idea where he learned that kind of behavior...)

More than the "physical" however, being relegated to this form had the Myling contending with heavily emotional turmoil. Did her best to offer her support where she could through these dark times, not minding when he came to visit her and Indi although made it clear after an encounter with Rohit that he understood both children were to be protected at all costs. Didn't feel she had to say more than that, and Rossamund appeared uplifted by her mentioning that she considered him like family. Less enthused about received the title of Aunt, but it was neither the place nor time.

Speaking of confusing familial ties, had been making gradual progress in her relationship with Indi's son, still finding it imperative to get him on accepting terms with her before approaching Abhiri. Starting to consider it wise that Rohit learn to spar, as he's a quiet, serious little thing with a lot of pent-up energy, and she frankly thinks he could use the outlet. He'd (unfortunately) seen his first fight not too long ago, despite her and Indi's attempts to keep him out of it knows he saw far more than he should have. Attempted to egg him on a few times on a lazy evening at the Playground, under Indi's approval of course, and probably only succeeded in cementing her Weirdo image. Though was able to deadpan though her joy in causing him some adorable frustration in the process of trying to get him to wrestle.

Ended up laying off him finally, and he'd retreat back to his mother on the boulders glaring at her as if she was the single greatest source of evil on this planet. Joked with Indi a few times about how much he seemed to take after his mother and just kind of gets this look back that made her question if the Sangai also noticed a certain other resemblance the children bore... maybe JM wasn't going crazy after all.

One of the most significant recent occurrences to memory was no doubt Rossamund's safe and eventual return to life, after a long and frustrating journey. Saw to it that he was fed and accompanied for the first few days of his recovery, incidentally using up each of the rabbits she had asked him to kill just days prior, when food hadn't been of interest to him but was to her for a project. Didn't find out how it had happened, not finding the timing right then and also not having seen much of the Myling since that week, though hearing whispers here and there of some of his exploits, for better or for worse.

Caught Rohit and Abhiri out running around one night without Indi's usual constant supervision and got just close enough to keep an eye on them without alerting them to her presence. Indi showed up in no time, so she relaxed and fell into her own thoughts as the family played. Completely caught off guard when the trio came and took Red Hill by storm in a confusing game of Zombies, no doubt initiated by Rohit, and ended up getting involved in it whether she wanted to or not. Somehow had been promoted from "Evil Zombie" to "Zombie Hunter" in the little guy's eyes, which while it sounded like an improvement at the time, Jokerman quickly realized still made her the antagonist in the little game. Though she fought back, was quickly outnumbered, mobbed, and infected to his seeming delight before Abhiri tired out. Rohit still looked at her like she was nuts when she rubbed the trees afterward, in an attempt to get him to play a little more. Would have to try more drastic measures later, but for the time just took it in stride and settled near the group tentatively. Heart all but seized when the smallest of the trio wandered over and ended climbing onto her back and falling asleep there. A whole myriad of fears put to rest by seeming to get Abhiri's stamp of approval and Rohit's growing tolerance. Didn't say anything to Indi at the time but knows it meant as much to her, too.

Her time and visits with Indi had been occupying the majority of her mind in one way or another, either working during the day on small schemes and building contacts with deer relevant to those schemes, visiting the family in the evening or stealing moments alone with Indi during the night. Hadn't been sticking her nose into much else that was arguably not her business, at least not in any obvious way. And while things were definitely much improved from where they started, the last thing she wanted was to any way encroach on the Topaz's time with her recently reunited family, or to be perceived by an intruding force by either of them. Found Indi by the flower patch near the river alone tonight and gladly took the opportunity to spend some time with the mother.

It wasn't too long before they were being watched. Waited to see if the other (Indigo) would approach on his own, but aware that her own companion was a little less comfortable with the bird's approach (Player assumes Indi felt tacky being caught wearing the same name so embarrassing) and went to deal with it head-on, as was the Sangai's way. Watched this as well though eventually interfered just to make it clear to the newcomer they weren't going to be chasing him, giving him the chance to come closer if he wanted. Could remember every one of her run-ins with Morioch since returning to the Forest and they were intentionally few and far between, but had seen enough of his small bird companion to make a few conclusions about his presence. Knew it was likely that nothing more than simple curiosity that had spurred the visit, though there was a few other possibilities too.

With this thought, plopped herself on the ground, intending to see how the rest would play out. Laid her head on her forelegs and watched with half-lidded interest as she waited for him to either come closer or Morioch to show up, standing enthusiastically when the older male came by. Took the opportunity to observe his behavior and appearance, nothing more than a sniff to his small companion which caused a small stir of amusement in the Kudu as he took off again. Watched the littler one leave, regretting that she hadn't been able to exchange greetings but time enough for that later. Maybe. Whatever it was, it was still better than Xetkal, and she resumed her earlier stance that there was no need for her to get involved.

Aware as they settled back down that Indi was still tense. Assumed her own omniscient Jokerman way what it was about without even asking, leaned close and quietly launched into the best reassurances and promises she could give her friend. Was cut off with Indi's words of knowing, and complete trust in her, and that was enough. In a moment of intimacy responded with the only thing better than that that she could think of which brought the doe pressing closer, things instantly seeming a lot simpler and a lot more complicated in that action. Shut out the world and lingered in each other's companies for as long as possible before Indi had to return to the kids.

Left as well, figuring the twilight hours would be the best time to do this. Despite Rossamund having promised to replenish the rabbit supply, had taken it upon herself to kill, cure, and preserve a variety of small vermin carcasses over the weeks following his return. Gathered them now and went off to the Birch to speak to a contact she'd made there, wanting to pursue a little whim.



It's good to see you both.
...We'll have to do something about that maternally-instilled sense of virtue.


Keeping close at Indi's family's heels should the need for aid ever surface; apart from that, busying herself with other things.

Many visits from Rossamund, to her relief. The Myling was doing a good job of checking in and putting her mind at ease. Watching his appearance shift from avian to vulpine to, at times, something like his original form. Which is at once heart-rendingly gratifying and more than a little bit amusing when he couldn't seem to perfect the hue.

Helped him work on his coloration this afternoon, the process being long and consisting of much trial and error and doubtless lots of effort from the Ghost. Eventually he got it right and their efforts were rewarded. Definitely didn't fall into the pond at any point. Settled into a mood for a moment and took note of the little Ghost sneaking off. Equally curious of where he was going as she was what he would do off on his own, and opted to explore the latter today. Feigned slumber and waited. The thought process being "He can't get hurt... right?"

Wrong. The Myling came back a short while later and settled back next to her. Could sense something was off and kept her mouth shut, just eyed him thoughtfully. At last he started spilling. Questioned him on it a little bit about his participation in a fight, as much interested in his ability to be hurt as the source of his injury. It seemed to be another hallmark of him gaining aptitude in this form.

Joined by Ciel and Neela as well, greeted the pair somewhat briskly as Neela was being adorable and shy and what was Jo supposed to do with [i]that?
Felt bad; she really needed to work on how she approach fawns, little girls in particular, but that thought was intermingled with the one that most kids start crying when she looks at them, and more lately have thought that she was going to eat their brains. Didn't want to do that to Ciel's family, and entertained other ideas, all of which consisted of staying seated for now.

Resumed talking with Rossamund, though noted his change in behavior with the pair's arrival. Found out about... something. Unsure. Ushered him a bit closer to Neela, perplexed at both their behaviors when she found out they were supposed to be friends. Also barked out some orders for any future 'incidents' with protecting others. Trying to work with him as it was evident the buck's code of honor was a part of him, and there was no use trying to pretend it couldn't get him hurt anymore.[/i]



...He has my ears.


Since disappearing five months ago, things have changed in ways even she hadn't expected. A contractual visit to the Soul Dealer Osias's hell resulting in her eventual breakthrough after being able to make contact with Eraline's ghost, in a deeply personal visit that she has kept to herself, but remains markedly changed by. Emerged with a renewed sense of obligation and the first hints of inner peace in years. Surprised herself more than anyone else by asking Indi if she could come along with her on her quest to find her children, instead of returning to the Forest as originally intended.

Visited the Sangai's homeworld in projected vessels and succeeded in establishing her children's souls' connections with the Forest. Concluded the long and arduous 'adventure' and returned to the Forest approximately a month ago, where they immediately set about trying to find the youths, both unsure and nervous that it hadn't worked out after all, or knowing if they would be able to recognize either fawn. Eventually mother and children were happily reunited, though it was clear it would take time and effort for things to settle down. Understanding of this, backed off immediately so as not to make the transition any rougher, even though falling back into old habits of withdrawing was the last thing she wanted right now.

Has busied herself with relearning the Forest. The first order of business being to touch bases with Henna. Accepted her sister's scolding for her lengthy absence (with no way of contacting) and insisted on learning of recent news. All worse fears seemingly came to light. Heartbroken to hear of Rossamund's passing, all the anger she felt directed purely at herself and even saddened that she had put Henna in this place. Made a sort of peace with it a few weeks later, however. Found a way to keep in touch with the boy's spirit and has not given up on finding a proper conclusion to these events. Treasures his attempts to make contact with her and does everything she can to increase the frequency of his visits.

A few other small visits here and there with others. Sat with Ciel at one point and was grateful as ever for his presence in her life, however little their paths may cross. But for the most part, drifted through the Forest like a ghost. Embracing the solitude and spending much time seemingly wrapped up in her thoughts near the riverbed, hardly moving to acknowledge the glances from certain passers-by; wisened up to a few less-friendly individuals in this way, though hasn't acted on it yet. Uncertain if she will. Also been crashing at the Topaz's home when she wasn't there, for a change of scenery. Sentimental like that. Found by Israel one afternoon in her favorite spot, and filled in on his recent travels. Unsure of how to receive the buck now that he's older, and treading carefully but firmly. Intends to learn more about him in light of Indi's relationship with her adopted son.

Rarely sees the Sangai after helping her to reunite with Rohit and Abhiri. Missing Indi like crazy after the events of the past months, which was expected and only natural. Using the time wisely, making preparations. Beginning to take small steps towards encountering the trio and familiarizing them with her presence, particularly Rohit, who already has a negative impression of her. Reassured by Indi that the boy has always been the cautious type. More endeared than anything with being able to see so much of his mother in the fawn. Happy to have them all here, and Indi so obviously happy.

Thoughts and perceptions challenged, even more than she thought they would be, by the two perplexing, spirited little creatures now in both their lives. Trying to do her best to give the newly-reunited family time to adjust, but acutely aware of certain aspects that are incredibly familiar. Keeping these thoughts to herself for the time being as she really isn't sure what it all means, though muses on it a lot in her spare time. Already charmed by and devoted to the fawns in mind, it seems.



Additional Notes


In excellent health. Elated, focused.





Without

Appearance


A traveling spirit; has accrued many different traits—marks—throughout different lifespans which manifest in different ways depending on the realm she is in. In the Forest she takes the form of a rather plain Greater Kudu from a previous life, though with enough time spent, her appearance has begun to warp.

More personal and spiritually-bound elements have revealed themselves. Rich brown fur has deepened to mahogany, and is ticked with shades of bright ruby. Even the helm with which she'd once identified so deeply, a male Kudu skull, had been stolen and a new one replaces it now which is completely her own; forged out of a mysterious, non-organic material and sculpted to depict an almost mocking caricature of her nature.


Set one - Idol Pelt, Skull Mask, Key AntlersIndicates her helm, which is usually worn.
Her physical state is a direct reflection of her mental state, and though it can be manipulated somewhat for her own advantage, generally a rich red overtone and healthy amount of weight reflects ambition and physical preparedness, for better or for worse. There is no desire to be disguised or blend into her surroundings at these times and greater visibility is often the intended result. A beacon of confidence that welcomes friend or foe to find her.

Set two - Fan Pelt, Real Deer Mask, Noh Antlers When unmasked. Very rare; it takes a strong impact in her life to get her to shed her helm.
Her fur can vary from a lush, deep red, to a coarse ashen brown in periods of emotional decline. The waning desire to eat, drink, or tend to her physical being is indicative of taut emotions and negligent self-worth. It is not uncommon for her spine and hip bones to become pronounced in times of severe undernourishment. Despite the physical and emotional depletion, her mental faculties are commonly heightened in these moments, and may be the reason she allows herself to fall into such a sorry state. It is the next best thing for a Deer who strives to be invisible. Unpretentious and easily passed by but often incredibly keen to her surroundings.



Solid, sleek musculature, she has no great bulk and probably borders on the slender side. Neither does she have any appealing curves or plush fur; only a slight shagginess around her throat and a slightly out-of-control mane. Tall and gaunt even at her best.

She is unhorned, with a broad, angular face, and dark amber eyes. She generally has a somber demeanor that can range from incredible severity to an almost coltish humor, and can be difficult to decipher under a stone mask. Lithe in movement with a careful, efficient briskness. Movements are measured and appear carefully calculated, with hints of underlying tension.




Features



Ritual Helm Whether its use as a ceremonial object was meant in its own right, has become a tool to her own personal ritual in the form of hunts. Affords great measure of power, protection, and anonymity. Allows a disconnect from reality and identity that is to her day-to-day function as crucial as the great power it wields.
It boasts a somber, almost patronizing expression of sympathy and pity. Traded by the Craftsman.
Twin God Charm One of a pair of charms, once worn by Eraline. Forged into the crown of her new helm. Passed on by Ciel.
War Paint A tribute to a daughter from one mother to the other, usually covered by her mask. From Henna.
Soul Dealer's Scar Strange marking in the shape of a human hand, around her throat and neck region. Acquired upon entering Osias's world.
Bug Bite On her left shoulder, not visible from a distance. Courtesy of Allu.




Combat



Whatever her state of health, Jokerman almost always has great reserves of energy and stamina. Though strong for her stature, where brute force is concerned she can be outmatched by many of the Forests' residents. High dexterity levels compensate somewhat for this.

She is a tactical fighter and relies heavily on strategy and mind games, and is better than average at spotting the same in others. It is common for her to avoid fighting or at least greatly be able to diffuse it through countering her would-be opponents' actions. She is very controlled in movement and consideration, and it is rare for her to engage in combat unwillingly.

Though sparring is one of the few activities she enjoys, she is not one to get into meaningless fights. Jokerman is outcome-oriented and has very little pride to be manipulated. Safety is her driving ambition so she'll often occupy herself with evacuating innocents from the area or distracting the offender. She is not concerned about fair play or honor, and will gladly team up with other deer to take down someone she considers a true threat, though she is highly concerned with collateral damage.

She accepts great responsibility for her actions and would sacrifice her own well-being for an innocent without hesitation. A well-known weakness.


(more later)







You have to realize you're the Devil just as much as you are God
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Apeldille's picture

Maybe time for me to track

Maybe time for me to track this instead of just silently stalking it. She's such an interesting character :V Also much love for this bio.

Oh wow and here I was honored

Oh wow and here I was honored the two or three times Ephire bowed at JM in game. :) Thank you so incredibly much!
Kaoori's picture

SO INDI SECRETLY IS A

SO INDI SECRETLY IS A CARNIVORE? SOB
Zergarikiaka's picture

Guess Jokerman ran into part

Guess Jokerman ran into part of Loki's family yesterday. XD
Laghodessa being his mother/stepmother and Adrastos being his half brother. |D

Lol, poor Laghodessa had no idea what the heck was going on with Indi and Jokerman until after they were gone. If she knew sooner that JM was the one Loki was having issues with she'd have had to have started MOM RAGING everywhere. XD;;;
Sleepything's picture

kaoori looks so deliciouuss

kaoori looks so deliciouuss

adorable art by Tuoho! ♥
Kaoori's picture

what if kaoori is secretly

what if kaoori is secretly like the monty python bunny indi

she's trying to draw you in

Jo remains impartial. Hasn't

Jo remains impartial. Hasn't ruled anything out yet - Indi being a cannibal or Kaoori being a trained secret assassin. :I


Zerg - Poor momma, I thought she was being way too polite to JM to know what her whole deal was. xD But she seems like such a sweet lady, I thought maybe she was just that calm.

And yes, JM was WAY thrilled about getting to meet the family. :P Hahaha.
Zergarikiaka's picture

Lol yeah, she does tend to

Lol yeah, she does tend to have to keep level headed. Sticking out tongue
Actually, Lagho thinks Loki's going to have to give JM a new mask if they ever plan on having some peace. XD

Aw, we (I at least)

Aw, we (I at least) definitely got the impression.
& was laughing yesterday when I heard Loki would've been able to get JM another mask. It's safe to say she is NOT aware of this, rofl...
RikkaChan's picture

JM's updates are so

JM's updates are so insanneee. So exciting to read! XD
Kaoori's picture

*foams at the mouth*

*foams at the mouth*

April - LOL you're kind to

April - LOL you're kind to say so (that they're exciting, anyway). I don't think so.... Normally she doesn't do much, just lurks around the forest quietly watching others, but every so often she gets teleported to Hell! ;) Was actually a lot more crazy but I decided to trim it down because, length.

Kimi - Omg you crazy lady IT'S OUT OF OUR HANDS NOW OK
excited for you though >>
Clare's picture

JERMMM ;A;

JERMMM ;A;

Fraaaaawns ;___;

Fraaaaawns ;___;
RikkaChan's picture

Briiiit, you're so stubborn

Briiiit, you're so stubborn when taking a compliment. XD I stand by my words. I love the way you type them.
Kaoori's picture

brait i saw jerder's

brait i saw jerder's sleepythong

April - Aw thank you lady.

April - Aw thank you lady. *Heart*
I stand by your words and love the way you type them as well :)

Kimi - NO. GET OUT WITH THAT KIND OF TALK. OUT!Exclaim!!Exclaim!
RikkaChan's picture

I try. c': -flails-

I try. c': -flails-
Kaoori's picture

screams

screams
Xemi's picture

thong

thong
Sleepything's picture

dat thongthatthathathong

dat thongthatthathathong

adorable art by Tuoho! ♥
Xemi's picture

I8

I8

i'm sorry april

i'm sorry april
RikkaChan's picture

Huh? Why are you sorry?

Huh? Why are you sorry?

these hoodlums..

these hoodlums..
Xemi's picture

i get it you dont like my

i get it you dont like my thong fine then -storms off- BC

oh... that was your thong? i

oh... that was your thong? i thought... jm's... cuz of her name...

wait.... your thong has my deer's name on it?
RikkaChan's picture

Uh oh, Brit is in trouble

Uh oh, Brit is in trouble naooo.
Xemi's picture

.... I8 mebe.

.... I8 mebe.
Kaoori's picture

i'm scared

i'm scared
Phaios's picture

Phaios allows the gentle

Phaios allows the gentle taff-taff of snowflakes to be the only sound to fill the gap between the pair of does for quite some time; although she had intended to seek out the kudu for a number of days, now, Jokerman had proven elusive and her moods had been as chill and numbing as the winter whisps which whisked across the grasses. Now that she's found JM, though, she isn't quite sure how to go about expressing the tangle of thoughts tumbling in her head. Only a few threads were even relevant to the other, and picking them out of the mess of yarn her life seems to have become is a daunting task with her waning energy.
However, there is a worry that it might be another week, a month, or more before she manages to bring their paths together again and - what's more - that she might have fallen so much farther by then. On top of that, how could she be so rude as to let such a thing go unsaid? With so many of her morals called into question, of late, it doesn't sit will with Phai to permit the words to go unspoken. And so she speaks, though tentatively; were the snow rain, instead, or the fountain a bit closer, her concern would have been that the words would be unheard.
"I haven't properly thanked you and Henna..." She keeps it short. "How is your shoulder?"

It had surprised Jo, too, for

It had surprised Jo, too, for one reason or another, to be joined by the gentle brown doe today. She probably couldn't say whether it was her or everyone she knew that was being elusive, although it felt well-deserved and the reclusive female hadn't seen fit to question her fate. She barely saw Henna these days, and Phaios, though present, was usually a distant figure. Indi was nowhere to be found (probably avoiding her with good reason) even Herla and her mate, her neighbors, were missing from their usual favored spot. Today it seemed like things might finally be turning around, finding the company returning but still the low spirits continued to sink her further into solitude. She wondered if it was her own projections, or if there was some sadness to be found in her company as well.
"I'm not tasting colors anymore. So, better." Indi had been a big help with it. True the wound still ached terribly in cold weather, and there was going to be a nasty scar once everything was said and done, but it was truly the least of the Kudu's problems. Jokerman breathed noisly out her nose for a moment, watching a warm cloud condense in front of her then shook her head.
"...Don't mention it." She would never consider Phaios indebted to her or Henna in any way. Her friendship with Phaios was doubtlessly worth the indescribable feeling, on cold and lonely days like it, of coming across another body already huddled next to Eraline's grave. "How is your daughter?"
Phaios's picture

"Credit where credit is due,"

"Credit where credit is due," she answers simply. Her eyes focus on the ground, watching flakes meld themselves into what once was soil. "Tasting colors... Endriaga said you were strange, for a time. I'm sorry she bothered you while you were ill. Ari... is as well as she can be, I think. She's been very quiet lately... I don't see much of her. I found Irie a few days after the ordeal, but she's gone missing again. She said she was proud to be her father's daughter..." Phaios shakes her head sadly. "Called me a liar who couldn't admit her wrongs. And in some ways, perhaps it was true, in the whispers of my conscience, but the words were never false. Still... I can't understand how she can so love the stag who hurt her mother and tried - and seems to be succeeding in stealing her away, who caused and causes so much grief... And yet she loathes the family who loves her. Won't listen, won't try to understand. Won't even stay." The doe blinks a few times and keeps herself quiet a moment. With a shaky breath, her gaze darts briefly to her company's face before meeting the snowy earth again.
"I'm sorry... I don't mean to ramble. I've been tired. The Forest is ill at ease, even aside from my family."

Jokerman nods her head

Jokerman nods her head stiffly. She had to have figured that that incident would make its way back to Phaios sooner or later.
"I'm sorry I chased her," she doesn't mind admitting to Phaios, as long as the dragon deer herself isn't here. "I saw what she... what you left for Eraline... that day." Jo frowns to herself, keeping her nose pointed straight ahead her eyes move to glance at the worried mother. "Don't apologize; I did ask, and Irie's health would have been the next question off my lips. I wish I knew what to say or do, to fix things for you and your family." She pauses and her gaze returns to Eraline's grave marker, half-consciously calculating how snow should pile up before she's due to get up and brush the stone clean. For all the deals she could make or revenges she swore to see out, it was all because the Kudu doe didn't know how to repair a tattered family in the first place. "The only advice I could give, to not give up on your granddaughter, is a creed you already seem to follow too well. It's the worst feeling to watch a young doe make a horrible choice, and it's impossible when that doe is related to you. I encourage you to stand by your intuition, however she may hate you for it; it could very well save her life. It really is better safe than sorry." Jokerman spares the other a look down the side of her nose. "But I know it hurts. All I can say is you're in good company, Phai."
Phaios's picture

She snorts lightly. "Oh, no,

She snorts lightly. "Oh, no, by all means, give her hell when she earns it - just don't rough her up too much. We share our wounds. Should she die, I'd be in sorry shape." Mild curiosity flickers behind tired eyes as she peers up at Jo again. "...But hard as it is to hide every thought, we don't share everything. She didn't mention leaving anything to me. Whatever she did was of her own accord."
Ah, but Irie and sad memories... She follows Jokerman's gaze towards the marker she had left behind earlier. "I wish I knew, too. She isn't the first... And I suppose not the last. It never gets easier, though." Phaios bows her head. "We used to sit like this, she and I... over on the hill, the tree between us." Although the meaning of 'she' had changed quite quickly, she felt Jo could figure it out just as readily. "There are days I think I'm well and I've moved on, but then there are days like these where the rain or the snow falls and all I can do is earn the name 'Remembrance' my Mother gave me. Days when too much happens... Irie, and Thane, Gus, and a dozen other things..." A sigh. "You're right, though. I haven't got the luxury of quitting. Not again. I only wish I could afford you company in a lighter way." All the same, though, the echo of Jokerman's ache is a solace for which she's grateful - a distant glow where a steadfast lighthouse calls across the storming sea and shouts, so faintly, 'You aren't alone.'

Phaios's words are of

Phaios's words are of interest to JM, for a second brief appreciation over the actions of Phai's 'redder' half lift the corners of the darker doe's lips, but just as soon dies off with the direction their conversation inevitably takes. Regrets, both current and future ones, weigh so heavy on Jo's mind as well, the female's words ring true. Maybe Phaios was on to something; maybe all residents in the forest were condemned to living their lives over and over, making the same mistakes again and again.
It doesn't take Jokerman long at all to realize when she talks about a special 'she.' Her eyes dart to the white trunk that bears both their weight. A heavy silence substitutes a reply, in which the larger of the two does shifts her attention back to the face of her friend.
"I wish the same of my own company. But things always change eventually. For better or worse," she promises somberly. "We'll all get the chance to make ammends with the past. And when that time comes, it helps to be able to Remember clearly. To find strength in your memories... especially in those cases when they're all you have left."
Vague thoughts serve to conceal would would be less subtle messages, such as pledges of hatred for the Bongo known as 'Thane.'
"And... I am very grateful for your company tonight."
Phaios's picture

"So they do..." The murky

"So they do..." The murky message of vengeance finds an alternate meaning in her own mind. "If my world still exists as it once did, I believe an end here will bring another beginning there... Mother willing, I'll have another chance one day. And... I would hope I would remember this place, as I remember the old one while here." Worry draws in her brows. "None of the others who returned ever mentioned another world, much less talking deer, and I knew some of them intimately... But as... as difficult as this Forest has been to live in some days, and as much as I miss what has been left behind, it has changed me. I'm better for having known Eraline and all the others who've gone or returned to another world. And if one day memory is to be all I have left of it... I should like to keep it, painful or not." She tilts her head upwards and shuts her eyes against the falling snow as she breathes in deeply. "I used to wish I had never remembered who or what I was before... I could have been happy, having always been a deer. But I wouldn't be whole - or, as whole as an imperfect being can be."
Phaios finds herself at a loss with Jo's last words; the memory of another voice speaking poison rises and is pushed away, much as it had been throughout the day. Funny that JM should strike it so precisely. It's easier to denounce the venom, now, in the presence of someone other than her own circling mind. "It seems we're always caught in what was and what should be but is not... But I'm glad to share an evening with you." It seemed like the kudu was frequently wandering alone - and willing to be so. A feeling she knew too well, some days. To have her gratitude for keeping one another company soothes unwarranted loneliness like no herd of bubbly friends can do, because she knows it's gratitude rooted in sincerity rather than habit. "I wish circumstance were kinder to us both, but I'm glad it's twined our paths."

A bitter smile this time is

A bitter smile this time is successfully tugged from the doe's lips. Yes, this was definitely a strange place and Jo would never be able to figure why exactly they all were set up to rot in it together. Up until recently she'd never given it much thought outside of what Phaios could tell her of her old life, but that was before being forced through a tear in time and space, where she was reminded of... not just different realms, but different vessels as well. Vessels that had belonged, once, to her.
"I remember what you said... what Eraline said to you, last. That there are no goodbyes, we will all see each other again. I never thanked you for that. Those words... that promise... gives me strength and hope each day. I live my life now only trying to earn the chance to see her again. To do it over. When that day comes, I only hope I can remember, too." Mind awakened to these broad possibilities, but wholly unaware of what her words could possibly have meant to the smaller deer in this life, Jo lowers her head to her forelegs in simple, assenting silence to the gentle doe's companionship. There was little Jo could offer in the way of help to make circumstances better for her and her family, but if Phaios could use some like-minded company, they seemed to be of kindred souls.
Phaios's picture

Her head leans lightly to one

Her head leans lightly to one side as she studies the kudu in the silence which follows her words. She remembers well those final moments, the fading breath, and every coarsely murmured epitaph. She remembers well the shining sun of her savannah and that final promise, the warmth of its vision tempered by the Forest's chill. And not least, she remembers the trials she's seen Jokerman journey through - but now in a different light. A life spent fighting to right a wrong she'd had no control over.
Kindred spirits indeed.
"I think you've earned the right and more," Phai murmurs softly as she, too, brings her chin to the ground.
She has to wonder how this strange forest works - a world where so many seem to carry memories from other worlds, yet so few from the same one and still so intricately woven together. And beyond that, there were those who seemed to belong - the strange, almost-feral flat-faced deer with no words and yet an uncanny sense of understanding, some with glowing names and some without. An unlikely hub for lost souls seeking solace and a melting pot of troubles and triumphs. It's perhaps a conversation for another day, but for now it calls for deeper thought that draws her into a silence of her own.
Hraeth's picture

'- Met a lesbian! Can't wait

'- Met a lesbian! Can't wait to tell Henna!'
/died

Ivi - ♥ fkgkl Hrae -

Ivi - ♥ fkgkl

Hrae - IT'S LIKE A ONCE IN A LIFETIME THING!!
LilyBlue's picture

-rolls a Nana your way- If

-rolls a Nana your way- If you still have JM here keeping her opens. -sneaks away-

Omg. >> ♥ I will try

Omg. >> ♥ I will try to have JM stumble across Nana some time soon. Even if it doesn't work out, I wanted JM to get established with does who wanted children. She tends to come across a lot of misplaced fawns... :)
LilyBlue's picture

Squee ♥ alrighty :3 I

Squee ♥ alrighty :3 I look forward to the two of them meeting sometime soon.

Me too! /memorizes her picto

Me too! /memorizes her picto
Clare's picture

Despite being technically

Despite being technically 'blind', Leviathann was actually pretty aware of her surroundings. So upon seeing Jokerman's distance heat signature tailing behind her and Morioch's family group, again, she knew something was up. And she didn't know if she liked it.

The serpent would close the distance between them, practically shoving herself onto the kudu before taking the time to examine whatever scents lingered on her coat.. and in all honesty, there wasn't much there. The kudu smelt of bark and grass and another familiar deer, Indi, plus maybe a few others, but that was it. Jokerman was clean as a whistle.

Something akin to a snort would blast through her skull; of course the kudu was clean. The last time Levi saw her touch someone was.. ages ago or never at all. Oops. Well, too late to take back the 'examination' now. The larger of the pair would back out of Jokerman's space, giving her room to breathe. Then Lev's head would tilt ever so slightly to the right. "You following me?"


//damn text sob

True to Levi's assessment,

True to Levi's assessment, the smaller doe would jump and muscles would instinctively tense at the unexpected touch. The resistance lasts only a moment, a split-second involuntary reaction before Jo's mind takes over again and she relaxes back against the tree trunk propping her up as the other backs off.

"No," she answers hollowly, after getting snorted at in the face. Jokerman wouldn't follow the serpent; she only followed monsters, to keep an eye on them, and she could have said as much but these types of excursions did tend to put one in mind of survival and not on falling apart the first second someone shoves her around a bit. Levi may not have been a target but she has always been volatile, now she even has good reason to be, so JM points her muzzle downwards and regards the female with empathy. Amelia has not been far from the Kudu's mind, lately. "Unlike you, unfortunately, following is about all I'm good for anymore. But you're not the only one whose daughter was hurt by that monster."
Clare's picture

Ears flick at Jokerman's

Ears flick at Jokerman's rather empty sounding 'no'. And when the female continues, Leviathann's ears pin momentarily. What did she mean by that? Jokerman had always been 'useful'; she still was. Levi could remember more than 'a couple' of times JM and Henna had been there for Harley and Amelia, and even herself when push came to shove. They'd always been there when it counted most; maybe not fighting alongside her like the snake would have wanted, but keeping her grounded and sane instead. They quietly kept her in line, keeping her from unnecessary bloodshed. "You doubt your worth." It wasn't a question.

"Monster.. You mean Thane, don't you?" Her ears prick, then droop once more; Jokerman meant Eraline. Thane had hurt Eraline, and now Amelia. Her heart goes out to Jokerman at that moment, and even if the sentiment isn't appreciated, she moves to touch the tip of her skull to the shoulder of the kudu female. Leviathann, too, has felt overwhelming loss before, and she knows the guilt that likely rests on JMs shoulders; that feeling of not doing all that could have been done. "I am sorry." She says before pulling away once more. Though instead of feeling sorry for the kudu, she feels angry. Thane had harmed their daughters. She would make him pay for it.

However, it brings another question to mind. Skeptically, she looks over the kudu, for the first time noticing she is lacking her signature helm. Generally she would have questioned it, but not this time. "Are you here seeking revenge, Jokerman?"

She hadn't known what to

She hadn't known what to expect next, but Levi's dramatic shift in demeanor is accepted without missing a beat, just as she'd have accepted her lashing out. With the drastic temperament change, though, Jokerman subtly slips out of her overly-complacent calm. She senses that, while still dangerous, Levi isn't a threat to her, and she knows exactly where that deadly fury is directed.

JM takes a moment smiles humorlessly. Why shouldn't she doubt her worth? It certainly isn't a question, anymore."He took away my daughter, and then he took away my means to avenge her. I'm not completely worthless, no, but he thinks I am, and you'd be surprised what others are willing to share with deer they consider nothing." It's spit out somewhat bitterly; clearly despite brushing it, off there are some self-esteem issues at play due to the loss of her primary defense. Her identity, in a way. "I have no antlers to raise to him... no fangs or claw to bare, either. But perhaps I have information that may serve your in your own goals. So yes, I am, Leviathann."

She eyes the antlered doe thoughtfully for a second; she'd answer any of her questions, of course, as best as she could, but it's just a matter of where to start.
Clare's picture

"He stole your skull?" The

"He stole your skull?" The missing helm is what Leviathann decides to address first, though her interest is obviously piqued by something else. "Thane is a fool to think stealing your mask is going to stop you from seeking revenge, Jo." There is a warning in her words; she knows Thane is no idiot and it is obvious the serpent worries for the kudu's safety. "Be careful when dealing with him.. he is a monster, as you said."

Leviathann considers Jokerman's words; the claim that she had information that might be useful to her. "Information?" The serpent becomes suspicious, ears flattening back. That sightless skull tilts to one side again, as if all the answers were written on Jokerman's bared face. Then the two hinds study each other for a time. Levi hesitates for a moment, wondering just how much she actually wants the information the other offers. Did she want to know all of what Thane had done? They were like family, once. It was hard for her to imagine one of her friends and allies could turn so.. dark and twisted. The doe is close to turning Jokerman down, saying she doesn't want to hear it, that she has enough reason to ruin the Craftsman.. but Mateo's pleads ring in her ears. His denial - fresh in her mind - burns through the other thoughts she might have had. She visibly shifts; she wants to know the extent of Thane's plans. She wants to know what he has done. Nobody else has to die, she can stop him, or at least try. A firm nod is given.

"And what happens after? I help you achieve your revenge, as well as my own?" Not like it would matter anyways; the snake-doe is fine being a pawn, as long as she gets to dish her own side of revenge out in the meantime.