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reliquery» PLAYER INFORMATION
Player NAME: Kitey
Current AGE: 23
Personal JOURNAL:moementm
IM & SERVICE: Skype > Lightwingchick
Player PLURK: None at the moment.
Current CHARACTERS: None.
» CHARACTER INFORMATION
Character NAME: Isamu
Character PULL-POINT: Leaving England, somewhere in the 1920s.
Character AGE: Approximately 300 years old. (Favored human form appears to be in his 40s)
Character ABILITIES: Isamu is a bakeneko, otherwise known as a "monster cat." As such, he has the ability to shapeshift into various human forms and possesses the ability to speak as humans do. He also possesses the ability to enter dreams, however it is not one of his greater strengths. Although he possesses an array of cursed and haunted relics to unleash on enemies, he much prefers a diplomatic approach to any given situation. If need be, he is skilled in using his parasol to dispose of opposition, in the fashion of using a cane.
Character HISTORY: Isamu's beginning was a simple one. He was a stray cat born into Japan's Edo era, with nothing to care about but day to day survival. It's a part of his life that's vague at best, one that he does not remember too well. Most humans were the least of his concern during this time, except the daughter of a local drinking house. She would feed him whenever he happened to pass by, and in turn he began to lurk in the area. It was her that affectionately gave him his name.
There was also another human that fancied her company. Isamu learned his name was Masao. He was a local in-between odd jobs, probably from out of town. He had some sort of a temper and a terrible gambling habit. She would turn him down politely whenever he visited, but he was very persistent. His visits were put to a halt when the young daughter was sent away. Isamu didn't know the reason at the time, but it did cause Masao to reach out to him. It was a rough introduction between the two of them, each vying for the attention of the girl in their own ways, but eventually they became acquainted and eventually inseparable.
His new master, once a stumbling scoundrel, changed from that day onwards as well. He was still the villain but he was smart about it. Isamu witnessed him hone his gambling and conning craft, slowly amassing his own fortune. Masao became less crude, more refined, and played his cards right. It was through him that Isamu bore witness to a different world of illegal transactions and many unusual artifacts. Superstitious nobles and politicians paid hefty coin for those in particular, playing a secret, dangerous game to remove opposition for their claim to fame and power. Masao only happily obliged, showing up to meet their demands and then quietly disappearing again.
Isamu himself underwent some of his own changes, awakening as a bakeneko during this period of his life. Stumbling into supernatural creature-hood, he did his best to protect his unknowing master from his craft. He became the image of his master, cocky and clever, ruthless when need be. Many potential customers tried to cheat Masao of his profits, as did many yokai/demons who sought to make him a victim of his own wares. Many times, due to lack of experience and his own hotheadedness, Isamu would barely prevent disaster from befalling his master. But he went for 10 years successfully, and he could only grow stronger, right?
The underworld, unfortunately, is not always kind and forgiving, and Isamu could only be so vigilant. Perhaps he had made an unknowing enemy striking out in the name of his master. Perhaps his master had stolen the wrong demon's teakettle. So many years later, it is still a mystery why or how it was that Masao vanished without a trace. Suddenly very alone, all Isamu could do was pick up the remainder of his master's contracts. After a few months, he came to the decision to join the Order of Whispers. If it was some demon's idea of revenge, or some terrible prank, he would find out. And he would exact vengeance.
In his travels with Masao, Isamu frequently came into contact with the Order of Whispers. They were also interested in many haunted and supernatural objects, among other things. While his master had not been aware of it, he was frequently in the presence of demons. Their aim was more political, their view much larger as a whole. They hoped to shape history from the shadows, guide the unknowing world away from disaster, and preserve the place of supernatural creatures in it. That was their promise, their guiding code. While it was all fine and dandy what they were doing, Isamu only wanted access to their network of information and resources. They were only too happy to oblige…once he became their agent. With his expertise, he became a field agent sent to identify, neutralize, and retrieve relics. It was here he was acquainted with and partnered with Noriko, a kara-kasa.
Isamu largely remained in Japan until the early 1700s. From there he went to mainland Asia, then Europe, and by extension colonial America for the rest of the century, changing guises where he went as he was able to. It was a time of great learning for him, as he had not seen many foreigners in Japan besides the few that were allowed trade. He went through many changes, witnessing the effects of revolutions and war, the ploys of hungry humans and creatures alike. It was a long century for him, feeling the helplessness of his role in a picture so big, then coming to terms with that and finding purpose in his profession. He had a smattering of travels to other, less developed areas of the globe, before again remembering his original plan. he returned to Japan in the early 1800s on personal leave. For 20 years, he focused solely on finding the whereabouts of the two humans who had meant dearly to him.
It turned out the young woman who had given him his name had been wed to a wealthy merchant foreigner. He assumed this was what caused the change in his master and caused him to be so focussed on improving his status. Isamu found a relic that Masao had sent her (thankfully, mostly harmless, save for a spirit that occasionally stole small things that wouldn't be missed), with a hidden note attached. Isamu wondered if Masao had done this with all his relics and if perhaps his disappearance was not an accident.
He set out of Japan again to track the wares his master had gained and sold, hoping it was some sort of lead. The Order found out he had left the country had not more than 1 year later he was once again reminded of his duty. Isamu had no choice but to oblige.
It is now the 1920s. The Great War ended not too long ago, its effects are still fresh on the minds of everyone. The past century turned out to be fruitless, and Isamu lost the trail. The war made his side project difficult, and the Order frequently kept him preoccupied. He is somewhat resentful over that matter, but sometimes he is grateful for the distraction. He gladly throws himself into the work when he finds his optimism waning. But what will this new world and its troubles bring for him?
Character PERSONALITY: A cat of 300 years , Isamu's had much time to mellow out and accumulate a near endless supply of patience. You would think living so long would cause one to harbor a hard edge of cynicism, but 3 lifetimes of self-fulfilling prophecies have taught him to maintain a calm, positive attitude. He is deliberate if he can help it, thinking before acting. This may cause others to believe he is slow or old-fashioned, but it was the turtle that won the race, right?
When he was young, still new to his powers, it was a different time. People were keenly aware of the presence of demons and supernatural powers, and their wielders held so much influence. Headstrong and rash, he blundered just as many times as he was victorious. His abilities made him overconfident. But the loss of his second master was a blow to him. He had to overcome the idea that it may have been his lack of awareness, or his carelessness in dealing with threats, for a long time. It still bothers him, though its sting has been dulled over the centuries. His time with the Order also forced him to think before acting. His actions not only affected him but the group he was representing. He learned rash decisions, especially with volatile elements such as relics, usually ended badly.
He values honesty, but he understands that those who bear it are few (and should be respected). He understands corruption and the deep hunger it leaves in people, but it too has its place. Isamu usually plays the role of observer in most situations and usually reacts instead of being proactive. Most problems cannot be solved with information, many issues can be healed with time. As a long-lived species, time is usually not an issue anyway.
Polite and accommodating, he is usually a willing ear. His time abroad has given him an appreciation for those of any walk of life. However, his opinions are not always freely given. It leaves room for misunderstandings, it allows people to get close. Maybe it is a habit from his profession as an agent of a secret organization, not just tied in with his job but also his preference of keeping things neat and tidy…should he need a way out. But a cold shoulder is not in him. He will be warm, but distant. Overall, he likes to be reliable and help where he can, but he will draw the line should you begin to treat him as more than a friendly coworker.
» EXSILIUM INFORMATION
Chosen WEAPON: Now this is actually very interesting because Isamu's main weapon is actually another youkai of sorts. The aforementioned parasol is actually a karakasa who originally functions as not only his weapon, but his companion, mentor, advisor, etc. from the aforementioned organization of mythological creatures. Her name is Noriko, and they're essentially partners. He'll most likely keep her as his preferred weapon, however even though she is an old umbrella strengthened by otherworldly powers, she is still…an old umbrella. I imagine to evolve she will have to change physically or gain more supernatural power to withstand and counter modern weaponry. If it is also possible, perhaps she could also utilize Isamu's array of relics to give additional attack benefits (i.e. an accessory or sidearm to her normal abilities that grant things such as poison, invisibility, luminescence, strong odors, illusions, etc.) as time goes on.
Chosen SKILLSET: Isamu is fine in either role as a mentor or as a fighter. However, he is not an especially powerful fighter and is much more skilled in recognizance, small strikes, ambushes, etc. His fighting style is more reaction/defensive based, and in larger fights his skills with relics would be more suited for supporting a more offensive player.
Character INVENTORY: 1x parasol companion; 1x large locked chest with compartments, contents: assortment of small relics (used as a means to assist on travels and aid in missions), 2x change of clothes, assortment of light reading, 1x small case of cigarettes, 1x shaving kit, 1x small pouch of catnip (hidden compartment)
» SAMPLES
First PERSON: [AUDIO]
Female voice (very soft, as if far off): No, it definitely was not the jewelry box...I'm surprised they did not confiscate our belongings.
Male voice (much closer): (chuckle) Oh yes, couldn't have you being thrown out or something awful such as that.
[There is a pause.]
Male voice (much closer): Quite unusual, this piece of work. They informed me it was a communication's device but I don't see a mouth piece...And this part of it... is very...bright.
[There is a tapping sound.]
Hello?
[He clears his throat uncertainly. There is a pause. He attempts a few other languages, then there is a long pause.]
Well erm, Isamu, reporting. Pardon this old man for not being in with the times, but let me know if I can be of service.
[There is the sound of crunching gravel.]
Female Voice: There you go again volunteering yourself for hopeless crusades.
[There is a long pause and the sound of crunching gravel gets softer and softer. Finally, the audio ends.]
Third PERSON: It was old. Maybe not as old as him, and perhaps in the grander scheme of things it was actually quite young in comparison to some of his regular tools, but there was no denying it had been around for a long time. Isamu ran his fingers along where the pigment had begun to chip on the lacquered box, wondering what design had painted its exterior once upon a time. Etheric energy. 17th century. The means of the artisan told its origin. The manner of its craft was faded but there was telling in the careful carving and the intricate patterns. The relic itself held all the answers, and Isamu sighed in relief at the thought of minimizing foot work. The rain this week was miserable.
His thoughts were interrupted by a crash and scuffling behind him. He thought to ignore it, but turned and humored his captive with a disappointed look. The human male was credible with tenacity, but Isamu found it rather unnecessary.
"No doubt you would rather this," Isamu motioned to the painted box in his hand, "than a cautionary tale, however..." He stood from his seat and paced around the table. "This was not meant for you. I'm afraid I'm going to have to confiscate it. Apologies." He returned the indignant look of the thief with an apologetic half-grin.
"Compensation is out of my means, but I suppose you would be grateful knowing you get to keep your life." He paused. "Not threatening you in the least, of course." He came closer to the human and crouched to his level, turning the box over in his hand. "I don't know if you have heard the tale of Pandora? Pretty little thing, I've been told. Well, some parts of her story have been construed over the years, and well..." He looked up at the man again with a thoughtful grin. The captive's eyes read of uncertain curiosity, then flickered with fear as if he saw something in Isamu he hadn't noticed before.
"It's a good thing you're a terrible lockpick." He stood up and made for the door. "Ah but don't worry, curiosity won't kill this cat. I'll be share to take good care of it, so be sure to take care yourself!" He left the man alone, tied up and with time to ponder just who was the strange man who had come and gone.
» ADDITIONAL NOTES
Physical APPEARANCE: As a cat, he's mostly gray with a white nose and belly. He's got a black patch covering his left eye and ear, then a streak that goes down his back to his tail. His paws also have black socks that lead up in stripes. The streak across his back also comes down in stripes. There is a bit of brown coloring where the black and grey transition. His tail also splits in two, denoting his age as a bakeneko. Usually the secondary tail can't be seen by average eyes, only if you're looking for it or if you've supernatural sensibilities? The second tail is also slightly crooked.
In his preferred human form, he's a 5'10" male that looks to be about in his 40's. He's used to a very clean and maintained look as per the time period he's been pulled from (slicked back hair, short, etc), however his more default look is a bit different. His hair coloring resembles his original form, half black, half grey, tied in a loose ponytail. He has a bit of fringe covering his left eye. Generally he keeps all cat parts hidden (ears, tails), although with enough cajoling or for those with supernatural sensibilities they'll show themselves.
Player NAME: Kitey
Current AGE: 23
Personal JOURNAL:
moementmIM & SERVICE: Skype > Lightwingchick
Player PLURK: None at the moment.
Current CHARACTERS: None.
» CHARACTER INFORMATION
Character NAME: Isamu
Character PULL-POINT: Leaving England, somewhere in the 1920s.
Character AGE: Approximately 300 years old. (Favored human form appears to be in his 40s)
Character ABILITIES: Isamu is a bakeneko, otherwise known as a "monster cat." As such, he has the ability to shapeshift into various human forms and possesses the ability to speak as humans do. He also possesses the ability to enter dreams, however it is not one of his greater strengths. Although he possesses an array of cursed and haunted relics to unleash on enemies, he much prefers a diplomatic approach to any given situation. If need be, he is skilled in using his parasol to dispose of opposition, in the fashion of using a cane.
Character HISTORY: Isamu's beginning was a simple one. He was a stray cat born into Japan's Edo era, with nothing to care about but day to day survival. It's a part of his life that's vague at best, one that he does not remember too well. Most humans were the least of his concern during this time, except the daughter of a local drinking house. She would feed him whenever he happened to pass by, and in turn he began to lurk in the area. It was her that affectionately gave him his name.
There was also another human that fancied her company. Isamu learned his name was Masao. He was a local in-between odd jobs, probably from out of town. He had some sort of a temper and a terrible gambling habit. She would turn him down politely whenever he visited, but he was very persistent. His visits were put to a halt when the young daughter was sent away. Isamu didn't know the reason at the time, but it did cause Masao to reach out to him. It was a rough introduction between the two of them, each vying for the attention of the girl in their own ways, but eventually they became acquainted and eventually inseparable.
His new master, once a stumbling scoundrel, changed from that day onwards as well. He was still the villain but he was smart about it. Isamu witnessed him hone his gambling and conning craft, slowly amassing his own fortune. Masao became less crude, more refined, and played his cards right. It was through him that Isamu bore witness to a different world of illegal transactions and many unusual artifacts. Superstitious nobles and politicians paid hefty coin for those in particular, playing a secret, dangerous game to remove opposition for their claim to fame and power. Masao only happily obliged, showing up to meet their demands and then quietly disappearing again.
Isamu himself underwent some of his own changes, awakening as a bakeneko during this period of his life. Stumbling into supernatural creature-hood, he did his best to protect his unknowing master from his craft. He became the image of his master, cocky and clever, ruthless when need be. Many potential customers tried to cheat Masao of his profits, as did many yokai/demons who sought to make him a victim of his own wares. Many times, due to lack of experience and his own hotheadedness, Isamu would barely prevent disaster from befalling his master. But he went for 10 years successfully, and he could only grow stronger, right?
The underworld, unfortunately, is not always kind and forgiving, and Isamu could only be so vigilant. Perhaps he had made an unknowing enemy striking out in the name of his master. Perhaps his master had stolen the wrong demon's teakettle. So many years later, it is still a mystery why or how it was that Masao vanished without a trace. Suddenly very alone, all Isamu could do was pick up the remainder of his master's contracts. After a few months, he came to the decision to join the Order of Whispers. If it was some demon's idea of revenge, or some terrible prank, he would find out. And he would exact vengeance.
In his travels with Masao, Isamu frequently came into contact with the Order of Whispers. They were also interested in many haunted and supernatural objects, among other things. While his master had not been aware of it, he was frequently in the presence of demons. Their aim was more political, their view much larger as a whole. They hoped to shape history from the shadows, guide the unknowing world away from disaster, and preserve the place of supernatural creatures in it. That was their promise, their guiding code. While it was all fine and dandy what they were doing, Isamu only wanted access to their network of information and resources. They were only too happy to oblige…once he became their agent. With his expertise, he became a field agent sent to identify, neutralize, and retrieve relics. It was here he was acquainted with and partnered with Noriko, a kara-kasa.
Isamu largely remained in Japan until the early 1700s. From there he went to mainland Asia, then Europe, and by extension colonial America for the rest of the century, changing guises where he went as he was able to. It was a time of great learning for him, as he had not seen many foreigners in Japan besides the few that were allowed trade. He went through many changes, witnessing the effects of revolutions and war, the ploys of hungry humans and creatures alike. It was a long century for him, feeling the helplessness of his role in a picture so big, then coming to terms with that and finding purpose in his profession. He had a smattering of travels to other, less developed areas of the globe, before again remembering his original plan. he returned to Japan in the early 1800s on personal leave. For 20 years, he focused solely on finding the whereabouts of the two humans who had meant dearly to him.
It turned out the young woman who had given him his name had been wed to a wealthy merchant foreigner. He assumed this was what caused the change in his master and caused him to be so focussed on improving his status. Isamu found a relic that Masao had sent her (thankfully, mostly harmless, save for a spirit that occasionally stole small things that wouldn't be missed), with a hidden note attached. Isamu wondered if Masao had done this with all his relics and if perhaps his disappearance was not an accident.
He set out of Japan again to track the wares his master had gained and sold, hoping it was some sort of lead. The Order found out he had left the country had not more than 1 year later he was once again reminded of his duty. Isamu had no choice but to oblige.
It is now the 1920s. The Great War ended not too long ago, its effects are still fresh on the minds of everyone. The past century turned out to be fruitless, and Isamu lost the trail. The war made his side project difficult, and the Order frequently kept him preoccupied. He is somewhat resentful over that matter, but sometimes he is grateful for the distraction. He gladly throws himself into the work when he finds his optimism waning. But what will this new world and its troubles bring for him?
Character PERSONALITY: A cat of 300 years , Isamu's had much time to mellow out and accumulate a near endless supply of patience. You would think living so long would cause one to harbor a hard edge of cynicism, but 3 lifetimes of self-fulfilling prophecies have taught him to maintain a calm, positive attitude. He is deliberate if he can help it, thinking before acting. This may cause others to believe he is slow or old-fashioned, but it was the turtle that won the race, right?
When he was young, still new to his powers, it was a different time. People were keenly aware of the presence of demons and supernatural powers, and their wielders held so much influence. Headstrong and rash, he blundered just as many times as he was victorious. His abilities made him overconfident. But the loss of his second master was a blow to him. He had to overcome the idea that it may have been his lack of awareness, or his carelessness in dealing with threats, for a long time. It still bothers him, though its sting has been dulled over the centuries. His time with the Order also forced him to think before acting. His actions not only affected him but the group he was representing. He learned rash decisions, especially with volatile elements such as relics, usually ended badly.
He values honesty, but he understands that those who bear it are few (and should be respected). He understands corruption and the deep hunger it leaves in people, but it too has its place. Isamu usually plays the role of observer in most situations and usually reacts instead of being proactive. Most problems cannot be solved with information, many issues can be healed with time. As a long-lived species, time is usually not an issue anyway.
Polite and accommodating, he is usually a willing ear. His time abroad has given him an appreciation for those of any walk of life. However, his opinions are not always freely given. It leaves room for misunderstandings, it allows people to get close. Maybe it is a habit from his profession as an agent of a secret organization, not just tied in with his job but also his preference of keeping things neat and tidy…should he need a way out. But a cold shoulder is not in him. He will be warm, but distant. Overall, he likes to be reliable and help where he can, but he will draw the line should you begin to treat him as more than a friendly coworker.
» EXSILIUM INFORMATION
Chosen WEAPON: Now this is actually very interesting because Isamu's main weapon is actually another youkai of sorts. The aforementioned parasol is actually a karakasa who originally functions as not only his weapon, but his companion, mentor, advisor, etc. from the aforementioned organization of mythological creatures. Her name is Noriko, and they're essentially partners. He'll most likely keep her as his preferred weapon, however even though she is an old umbrella strengthened by otherworldly powers, she is still…an old umbrella. I imagine to evolve she will have to change physically or gain more supernatural power to withstand and counter modern weaponry. If it is also possible, perhaps she could also utilize Isamu's array of relics to give additional attack benefits (i.e. an accessory or sidearm to her normal abilities that grant things such as poison, invisibility, luminescence, strong odors, illusions, etc.) as time goes on.
Chosen SKILLSET: Isamu is fine in either role as a mentor or as a fighter. However, he is not an especially powerful fighter and is much more skilled in recognizance, small strikes, ambushes, etc. His fighting style is more reaction/defensive based, and in larger fights his skills with relics would be more suited for supporting a more offensive player.
Character INVENTORY: 1x parasol companion; 1x large locked chest with compartments, contents: assortment of small relics (used as a means to assist on travels and aid in missions), 2x change of clothes, assortment of light reading, 1x small case of cigarettes, 1x shaving kit, 1x small pouch of catnip (hidden compartment)
» SAMPLES
First PERSON: [AUDIO]
Female voice (very soft, as if far off): No, it definitely was not the jewelry box...I'm surprised they did not confiscate our belongings.
Male voice (much closer): (chuckle) Oh yes, couldn't have you being thrown out or something awful such as that.
[There is a pause.]
Male voice (much closer): Quite unusual, this piece of work. They informed me it was a communication's device but I don't see a mouth piece...And this part of it... is very...bright.
[There is a tapping sound.]
Hello?
[He clears his throat uncertainly. There is a pause. He attempts a few other languages, then there is a long pause.]
Well erm, Isamu, reporting. Pardon this old man for not being in with the times, but let me know if I can be of service.
[There is the sound of crunching gravel.]
Female Voice: There you go again volunteering yourself for hopeless crusades.
[There is a long pause and the sound of crunching gravel gets softer and softer. Finally, the audio ends.]
Third PERSON: It was old. Maybe not as old as him, and perhaps in the grander scheme of things it was actually quite young in comparison to some of his regular tools, but there was no denying it had been around for a long time. Isamu ran his fingers along where the pigment had begun to chip on the lacquered box, wondering what design had painted its exterior once upon a time. Etheric energy. 17th century. The means of the artisan told its origin. The manner of its craft was faded but there was telling in the careful carving and the intricate patterns. The relic itself held all the answers, and Isamu sighed in relief at the thought of minimizing foot work. The rain this week was miserable.
His thoughts were interrupted by a crash and scuffling behind him. He thought to ignore it, but turned and humored his captive with a disappointed look. The human male was credible with tenacity, but Isamu found it rather unnecessary.
"No doubt you would rather this," Isamu motioned to the painted box in his hand, "than a cautionary tale, however..." He stood from his seat and paced around the table. "This was not meant for you. I'm afraid I'm going to have to confiscate it. Apologies." He returned the indignant look of the thief with an apologetic half-grin.
"Compensation is out of my means, but I suppose you would be grateful knowing you get to keep your life." He paused. "Not threatening you in the least, of course." He came closer to the human and crouched to his level, turning the box over in his hand. "I don't know if you have heard the tale of Pandora? Pretty little thing, I've been told. Well, some parts of her story have been construed over the years, and well..." He looked up at the man again with a thoughtful grin. The captive's eyes read of uncertain curiosity, then flickered with fear as if he saw something in Isamu he hadn't noticed before.
"It's a good thing you're a terrible lockpick." He stood up and made for the door. "Ah but don't worry, curiosity won't kill this cat. I'll be share to take good care of it, so be sure to take care yourself!" He left the man alone, tied up and with time to ponder just who was the strange man who had come and gone.
» ADDITIONAL NOTES
Physical APPEARANCE: As a cat, he's mostly gray with a white nose and belly. He's got a black patch covering his left eye and ear, then a streak that goes down his back to his tail. His paws also have black socks that lead up in stripes. The streak across his back also comes down in stripes. There is a bit of brown coloring where the black and grey transition. His tail also splits in two, denoting his age as a bakeneko. Usually the secondary tail can't be seen by average eyes, only if you're looking for it or if you've supernatural sensibilities? The second tail is also slightly crooked.
In his preferred human form, he's a 5'10" male that looks to be about in his 40's. He's used to a very clean and maintained look as per the time period he's been pulled from (slicked back hair, short, etc), however his more default look is a bit different. His hair coloring resembles his original form, half black, half grey, tied in a loose ponytail. He has a bit of fringe covering his left eye. Generally he keeps all cat parts hidden (ears, tails), although with enough cajoling or for those with supernatural sensibilities they'll show themselves.
