08-25-2013, 12:36 AM
Character name:
Nanoha Takamachi
Character source:
Nanoha, anime series.
Character history:
Post Force manga. Will edit in a much longer synopsis later!
Stats:
ATK: 3
DEF: 3
SPD: 1
TEC: 3
Starting Proficiencies:
Ranged Proficiency, Disable Proficiency, Homing Proficiency. (2300 OM total)
Starting Powers:
Not starting with any.
Starting Moves:
Raising Heart (Standby and Axel Modes):
Nanoha's signature piece of equipment, Raising Heart is a 'Intelligent Device'- a marvel of technological and magical hybridisation. An Device is, in essence, a powerful form of supercomputer capable of manipulating magical energy and empowering its user's own magical abilities. In addition to the abilities of a regular Device, an Intelligent Device such as Raising Heart is imbued with a powerful artificial intelligence, allowing it a sophisticated degree of autonomy.
While most Intelligent Device AIs are fairly simple in terms of actual personality, an Intelligence Device that has been synchronised to a Mage for as long a Raising Heart has developed a much more individual sense of self, and the bond between user and device is considerably stronger.
Raising Heart has multiple forms:
Standby Mode. In this mode, Raising Heart resembles a small red sphere about 1.5cm in diameter. Abilities are limited to User Interface related displays, inter-device communication and data retrieval, as well as a small amount of minor assistant magic. Raising Heart is also capable of powering a Barrier Jacket during times of duress, and self-levitation in Standby Mode.
Axel Mode. In this mode, Raising Heart takes the form of a White-and-Pink Staff about three quarters of Nanoha's height, capped by a Golden half-circle surrounding a suspended red gem. Abilities in this form include all standby mode abilities, moderate to advanced magical capabilities, auto-guard capabilities (currently loaded spell is Protection) and powering a Barrier Jacket. A cartridge system is also incorporated into Axel mode.
Raising Heart ability specifics:
Barrier Jacket: Raising Heart is capable of automatically generating and powering a Barrier Jacket onto Nanoha while in all modes, however it is considerably more draiing in Standby mode, and thus only used in moments of duress. See below for Barrier Jacket specifics.
Auto-Guard: A Device is capable of using Auto-guard to form a defensive spell when its user is unable to defend themselves, typically when incapacitated or surprised. The spell drains some of the user's mana, and is generally much weaker than a spell cast with proper timing and concentration. The current Auto-Guard spell used by Raising Heart is Protection, see below.
Cartridge System: This system allows an injection of pure magical energy into the Device via small magic-infused 'bullets' that are consumed. The Cartridge itself is only capable of holding a small number of such 'bullets' at a time, and they must be replenished in order for the Cartridge system to be used. (upon entering the Omniverse, Nanoha has used all of her supply, thus rendering the Cartridge system unusable.)
Barrier Jacket:
The Barrier Jacket is an exceptionally versatile form of personal defensive field matrix protection. In essence, it is a set of protective clothing that acts as the final line of defence for a mage before attacks would cause hem physical harm. Each Barrier Jacket's appearance is unique, and usually follows a stylistic choice inherent to the mage. Barrier Jackets will consume mana to persist, albeit very small amounts. However, absorbing incoming attacks will drain mana from the user, in proportion to the strength of the attack, and will continue to do so until all mana is drained, or the user (or device) deactivates the Barrier Jacket.
Raising Heart will always generate a Barrier Jacket on Nanoha when entering Axel mode.
Protection:
Protection is a basic barrier-type defensive spell, generating a magical barrier around the user to ward off enemy spells and attacks. It is inherently stronger against magical attacks than physical ones. Protection has a wide area of effect (a sphere around the caster) and a very quick cast time, but lacks the defensive power of more powerful defensive spells. An attack with power stronger than a Protection spell will shatter the barrier and continue, though with less momentum or energy.
Nanoha has a natural affinity for Protection, and appears to generate spells capable of more defensive power than most other users.
Divine Shooter:
Nanoha's go-to basic offensive spell, Divine shooter summons up to five spheres of magical energy. These spheres can be unleashed as bolts of magical energy that will home in on targets. Divine Shooter also has a limited barrier piercing power, allowing the bolts to pierce through magical barriers, but will have their power reduced based on the power of the barrier. Control of more than five spheres at a time is possible, but requires more concentration and mana.
(Requires Ranged, Homing, Proficiencies.
Restrict Lock:
A high-level magical spell, Restrict Lock is a binding spell used to restrict or nullify the movement of a target. The spell manifests as a collection of light wheels around the target, typically around limbs, torsos or other extremities. Each light wheel has to be broken individually to negate the entire spell, though movement of each limb will be allowed when its respective light wheel is broken. While the spell holds, Nanoha can concentrate to summon additional light wheels, but is typically unable to cast any other spells while doing so.
(Requires Disable Proficiency)
Writing Sample
Nanoha Takamachi
Character source:
Nanoha, anime series.
Character history:
Post Force manga. Will edit in a much longer synopsis later!
Stats:
ATK: 3
DEF: 3
SPD: 1
TEC: 3
Starting Proficiencies:
Ranged Proficiency, Disable Proficiency, Homing Proficiency. (2300 OM total)
Starting Powers:
Not starting with any.
Starting Moves:
Raising Heart (Standby and Axel Modes):
Nanoha's signature piece of equipment, Raising Heart is a 'Intelligent Device'- a marvel of technological and magical hybridisation. An Device is, in essence, a powerful form of supercomputer capable of manipulating magical energy and empowering its user's own magical abilities. In addition to the abilities of a regular Device, an Intelligent Device such as Raising Heart is imbued with a powerful artificial intelligence, allowing it a sophisticated degree of autonomy.
While most Intelligent Device AIs are fairly simple in terms of actual personality, an Intelligence Device that has been synchronised to a Mage for as long a Raising Heart has developed a much more individual sense of self, and the bond between user and device is considerably stronger.
Raising Heart has multiple forms:
Standby Mode. In this mode, Raising Heart resembles a small red sphere about 1.5cm in diameter. Abilities are limited to User Interface related displays, inter-device communication and data retrieval, as well as a small amount of minor assistant magic. Raising Heart is also capable of powering a Barrier Jacket during times of duress, and self-levitation in Standby Mode.
Axel Mode. In this mode, Raising Heart takes the form of a White-and-Pink Staff about three quarters of Nanoha's height, capped by a Golden half-circle surrounding a suspended red gem. Abilities in this form include all standby mode abilities, moderate to advanced magical capabilities, auto-guard capabilities (currently loaded spell is Protection) and powering a Barrier Jacket. A cartridge system is also incorporated into Axel mode.
Raising Heart ability specifics:
Barrier Jacket: Raising Heart is capable of automatically generating and powering a Barrier Jacket onto Nanoha while in all modes, however it is considerably more draiing in Standby mode, and thus only used in moments of duress. See below for Barrier Jacket specifics.
Auto-Guard: A Device is capable of using Auto-guard to form a defensive spell when its user is unable to defend themselves, typically when incapacitated or surprised. The spell drains some of the user's mana, and is generally much weaker than a spell cast with proper timing and concentration. The current Auto-Guard spell used by Raising Heart is Protection, see below.
Cartridge System: This system allows an injection of pure magical energy into the Device via small magic-infused 'bullets' that are consumed. The Cartridge itself is only capable of holding a small number of such 'bullets' at a time, and they must be replenished in order for the Cartridge system to be used. (upon entering the Omniverse, Nanoha has used all of her supply, thus rendering the Cartridge system unusable.)
Barrier Jacket:
The Barrier Jacket is an exceptionally versatile form of personal defensive field matrix protection. In essence, it is a set of protective clothing that acts as the final line of defence for a mage before attacks would cause hem physical harm. Each Barrier Jacket's appearance is unique, and usually follows a stylistic choice inherent to the mage. Barrier Jackets will consume mana to persist, albeit very small amounts. However, absorbing incoming attacks will drain mana from the user, in proportion to the strength of the attack, and will continue to do so until all mana is drained, or the user (or device) deactivates the Barrier Jacket.
Raising Heart will always generate a Barrier Jacket on Nanoha when entering Axel mode.
Protection:
Protection is a basic barrier-type defensive spell, generating a magical barrier around the user to ward off enemy spells and attacks. It is inherently stronger against magical attacks than physical ones. Protection has a wide area of effect (a sphere around the caster) and a very quick cast time, but lacks the defensive power of more powerful defensive spells. An attack with power stronger than a Protection spell will shatter the barrier and continue, though with less momentum or energy.
Nanoha has a natural affinity for Protection, and appears to generate spells capable of more defensive power than most other users.
Divine Shooter:
Nanoha's go-to basic offensive spell, Divine shooter summons up to five spheres of magical energy. These spheres can be unleashed as bolts of magical energy that will home in on targets. Divine Shooter also has a limited barrier piercing power, allowing the bolts to pierce through magical barriers, but will have their power reduced based on the power of the barrier. Control of more than five spheres at a time is possible, but requires more concentration and mana.
(Requires Ranged, Homing, Proficiencies.
Restrict Lock:
A high-level magical spell, Restrict Lock is a binding spell used to restrict or nullify the movement of a target. The spell manifests as a collection of light wheels around the target, typically around limbs, torsos or other extremities. Each light wheel has to be broken individually to negate the entire spell, though movement of each limb will be allowed when its respective light wheel is broken. While the spell holds, Nanoha can concentrate to summon additional light wheels, but is typically unable to cast any other spells while doing so.
(Requires Disable Proficiency)
Writing Sample
Quote: He was not sure why the ticket machine refused work. It just sat there, its glossy finish giving him a reflection of his own frustrated face, not responding to him at all. He had put the money in those little slots then politely asked it for a ticket, yet nothing happened. No ticket, no beeps or flashes to say it was wrong. Nothing changed on the screen.
It was very annoying.
Anzekay leaned over the refund button, very tempted to just try another machine, when a hand reached out and grabbed him by the elbow. Taken aback, he paused for just long enough that the owner of the hand spoke before he could react.
“It’s a touch screen. You know, you poke the buttons on the screen with your fingers. Like this.”
Taking a step back, Anzekay watched as the youth- an unshaven, tired-looking, male- moved up to the machine and prodded the screen several times with his index finger.
“You wanted to go three stations, right? That’s just a one zone ticket. All you have to do is press standard fare, then one zone.” There was a quiet whirring sound, and then a small square of paper was spat out into the tray below the screen. The youth plucked it up and turned to Anzekay, offering the ticket.
“Thanks. I guess I’m not really used to these things.” He accepted the ticket from the outstretched hand, then swung his right hand up to shake it, “I appreciate the help, that’s also something I’m not really used to.”
The young man smiled, his grip firm and confident, and inclined his body in a slight bow, “Not at all. I happen to be going the same distance, and,” He grimaced a little, “The train will be leaving soon.”
“Oh. Right.”
“So, I’m guessing you’re not from around here. Where you headed?”
The youth had followed Anzekay onto the train, all the way down the carriages, and sat down right next to him after he found an unoccupied seat in a corner. The kid was very persistent, but Anzekay was more interested in why he was not bothered by a strange albino than he was annoyed with the unasked company. At any rate, perhaps he could get some information from the kid.
He was not particularly tall, wearing a business suit that looked too long and more than a little old. The creases did not help at all, either. Untidy brown hair hanging over a rather unremarkable face with tired eyes was offset by his brilliant white teeth. Probably on his way home after work, he mused, considering the time.
“Uh, you okay old man?”
“What? Yes. Don’t call me that. Just. Thinking a little, I’m sorry. It’s been a long day in an unfamiliar city.”
“Ah, so you aren’t from around here then. I asked where you’re headed.”
Maybe the kid was more annoying that he first thought, but being irritable would not help here, “I heard there was some decent hotels three stops down, and I need a place to stay for a couple of days; I’m just in town for business.”
“Oh yeah? There’s one just one block down from my place, I can show you where if you’d like; it’s not too far from the station.” The boy smiled broadly, clearly pleased with this turn of events.
Probably does not get out much, though goodness knows why with this sort of cheery disposition. He certainly did not seem like the sort of lad who would be shy around girls, though then again you never could tell, really. Regardless, a guide would be better than trying to follow the vague directions that he was given by the ticket officer at the cross-continental line terminal.
“Sure, why not if it isn’t too far out of your way. You’ve been too kind, I do appreciate it.”
Feeling the train slowing down as it approached their station he stood up, watching the youth as he did likewise. This was still an anomaly, most unusual. People sometimes were unintimidated enough to talk with him, but outright offer help out of the blue? He had not had that sort of luxury- by far the best word for it- for some time indeed.
The youth merely smiled and led the way off the train.
The hotel, a large modern-looking building with all the signs of being a decent enough place, turned out to be just the sort of place Anzekay had hoped for. It was not going to be too expensive, but it also was not some shithole that he would feel dirty just walking into. If he luck held, maybe it would be nice a quiet too. The foyer was a spacious and cheerily lit place, a few people already lining up at the front desk patiently waiting for their turn to speak with the attractive receptionist. He studied himself in reflection of the fake marble floor. He looked as tired as he felt, the lack of sleep from the past few days finally taking a visible toll on his body. A good night’s rest would do him wonders. Then he could finally get down to work here.
The kid had left him at the door, insisting he would show Anzekay a decent place for breakfast in the morning. The youth seemed so earnest that he just could not bring himself to turn down the offer. That and a good meal would be nice as well, not to mention the opportunity for some subtle questioning that might get him some more important information. Anything to shorten his stay on this planet; it was far too familiar. Too many memories came rushing back at the most random of moments.
Joining the back of the line, he thought back on a more recent memory. His landing here had been a hard one, much harder than any recent ones. The portal had worked correctly from the origin side, but the exit hole dropped him from about thirty metres up. The fall could have caused some injury, but falling had never really been that much of a problem for him. The problem was the energy aftershock when he failed to close it properly, his haste to secure himself causing him to lose concentration for just a second too long. Stupid, really, that was a childish mistake and one that would have caused anyone less competent than he a great deal of damage. He had merely escaped with being knocked out for a few minutes. Something felt slightly off ever since then, but without a chance to fully explore the sensation he did not see any point in worrying.
“Sir? Can I help you?”
He snapped out of his thoughts with a shake of his head, and walked up to the desk and the waiting receptionist. She was a pretty thing, but that was to be expected as the face that greeted you inside a decent hotel. She gave him a weak smile and placed a slip of paper and a pen on the edge of the counter in front of him.
“Just fill in the top section, please. How long will you be staying with us?”
The form just wanted basic details, including the answer she had just sought, “Just two nights. I’ll be leaving the day after tomorrow. Just a standard single bed room, please, with a view if at all possible.”
He paid for both nights in advance, and she handed him a room key along with a slightly more enthusiastic smile.
“Enjoy your stay!”
The cool night air felt refreshing on his clean skin, prickling the fine hair on the backs of his arms and neck. A shower was something he had not considered, but as soon as he noticed the bathroom door he had been very quick to make use of the facility. If he actually produced sweat, he probably would have had even more trouble not scaring everyone off the past few days. Now he was standing on the tiny balcony outside his window, shirtless in the moonlight, and drank in the sounds of the city around him. He could hear faint sirens, the occasional flutter of a bird, and the footsteps of a few people as they walked along the sidewalk several stories below.
He stepped back from balcony and closed the glass door behind him. He hesitated for a moment, as the warmth of the room flowed into him, and strode over to the table in the corner of the room where he had left his pack. He flipped off the cover and lifted out the object inside.
The heavy tome was black, a pitch black that was a perfect contrast to the milky white of his skin. The silvery lines than ran in complex, crazy, patterns across the cover of the book glistened clearly in the gloom like they were alive. Closer inspection gives an impression of something flowing along the lines that resembled tiny rivulets of mercury. An enormous silver lock sat dead in the middle of the front into which he promptly shoved the index and middle fingers of his right hand. The lines glowed briefly, and then the lock snapped open with a crackle of light.
Striding over to the middle of the room, between bed and balcony, he hefted the book into the air in front of him.
“Rhyddhau!”
With the sharp word the tome floated into the air above his hands and opened up, the pages flicking back and forth rapidly. After a moment or two the pages ceased turning, and a green glow enveloped the two pages it remained open to. Projected out from the pages was a cone of light that ended in a thin, but almost material, plane that looked like some sort of vibrant green hologram.
Anzekay paced around the floating book, stroking his chin thoughtfully. He needed to locate his target, but the book was ever a fickle thing. He had to word his questions correctly.
He stopped by the door to the balcony, almost tempted to go out there again and let the cool breeze stir his mind in the right direction. A subtle movement across the street caught his eye though, as he leaned his forehead against the glass. There was someone down there.
He threw the door open with one hand, and snapped a finger back at the book with the other. The tome clapped shut and plummeted to the floor instantly; the green light dispersing as quickly as it first appeared. He stepped to the railing of the balcony in one stride and managed to catch a glimpse of a person stepping into an alleyway.
He could feel it in his gut. Things were going to get a lot more complicated.

