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- "Your opinions do not rule my life nor the ideas which dance 'round that pate of yours. You have your ideas of what I should do--what you think all women should do, but in the end, I have to ask: why am I to care of your opinion? It does not benefit me in even a slight; as such, why should I pay heed to your words if they are as useless as trying to baptize a whore when the priest is the one in need of saving? ...in the end, if the genders were to switch roles, there would be no difference. Women would then be like the men. Tyrants. They would then lead wars and butcher their children with a staff or scepter while men stayed home, cooked, cleaned, and lie on their backs when the wife demands it. That said, switching mere roles will do absolutely nothing."
- — Raisa in an argument with Pfieffer
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Appearance
Raisa is of a fair complexion and has a deep colored hair of red. Her eyes, green. Her features give easy identification that she is not entirely Chinese. She holds scars across her body from countless fights, cuts, gashes, scrapes, and even wounds from being shot. Easily missed in a crowd, Raisa is capable of eluding practically any pursuer.
Raisa's Biography
Raisa is the middle of three daughters born in a land which knew pagans to be the death of all life. Due to her bi-racial features, her life was made all the harder for her mother was Chinese and her father was of Russian decent.
A kind man he was and he did all he could to tend to his wife and his three daughters. As the second child, Raisa looked only to her mother for emotional support since her elder sister; Raine, easily seized their father’s eyes while her younger sister clung to Raisa as her only friend. Acting a parent to her younger sister, Raisa took pride in tending to Raiko's needs whether it be them playing, her being terrified of the dark or a mere cut from falling. Raisa was always by her side. This all changed when the men of the cloth accused her mother and father of witchcraft. It wasn't much of anything to her at first until Raisa noticed that everyone had begun to shun not only her, but her entire family. Soon after that, Raine was sent away to somewhere in Europe while Raisa and Raiko were left with unanswered questions.
As time passed Raiko soon grew into the stage of intercourse and the joys it brought and often stayed away from home and with various boys and even men. Disgusted with her younger sister, Raisa kept their conversations to a minimum. Her mother took notice of her daughter’s behavior and she then decided to bring Raisa to the truth of many things in life. Through her mother’s teachings, she learned of infatuation, love, death, pain, agony, torment and the other fates which rested within life itself. In addition to that, (and what she believes to be more important) her mother had given Raisa the very weapon which she had used in her youth, Sapphire. It was a weapon forged of Damascus and was considerable in weight. In addition to that, she also gave Raisa a diary for which her mother had filled every important event of her life and told Raisa to read a page of it a day only after her nineteenth birthday. Agreeing to this she then practiced with her mother in the art of the samurai day and night. Raisa was also taught how to forge and smith armor. Beyond this was talk of a gunsmith whom had crafted a revolving mechanism. Naturally, with her curiosity swelling, her mother bought several books for Raisa to read regarding firearms and their construction.
She was happy with her life until shortly after her fifteenth birthday. It was nearing the twentieth hour of the day and all had already been covered by darkness when she was on her way home from buying strawberries and peaches, her and her mother’s favorite fruits. As she took notice to an orange light in the distance, Raisa quickened her pace to see just what it was and when she reached her destination; Raisa froze as she saw her dwelling set aflame. Raisa immediately snapped from her idleness and braved the flames hoping to save her mother but instead she found nothing more than a corpse and with her father and sister away from home, there was no one to lend their aid. Dropping to her knees and wept--however, Raisa’s eyes were then filled with hope as her mother reached out for her. Taking her hand within hers, she promised to save her mother only for her mother to order her not to. Bewildered by such a command, Raisa ignored her words and attempted to lift the column which had pinned her mother to the floor, however, she could barely move it. Promising to help her mother she fell silent when her mother’s hand touched her face.
“There are things you’ve yet to learn Raisa…in time you will though…pleasure you shan't take from it but you shall learn…”
Before Raisa could speak, her mother instructed her to take Sapphire and the Diary with her and to never return to this land for nothing but death will wait as the humble servant it is. As it was the final request, Raisa did just what her mother instructed and as the morning approached, she watched the small embers die as they could find nothing else to burn. Knowing not what to do, Raisa set forth and hoped to reach Japan, however, a woman in religious attire offered her home to her, her home being a church. Initially Raisa declined until she discovered Raiko had also been within the church as well. Agreeing for only that cause, Raisa entered the church only to have new restrictions placed upon her. The head priest of the church also wanted to take her Wōdāo, Sapphire, from her, however, she was able to keep it since the woman, a nun, informed him it was one of the only things that she had which belonged to her mother. Three years had passed while Raisa entered and lived within the confines of the church; Raisa hated wearing the long skirts and dresses.
She had also despised that she was forbidden to engage in her practice of the Wōdāo which her mother had taught her. It annoyed her that she had to dress so feminine while also having to offer grace and prayer to a deity which she did not believe in. The only thing that allowed her to tolerate such idiocy was that Raisa had often spoke to her younger sister, yet she acted as if no one else existed around her. Raisa thought it possible that Raiko were in shock of their mother’s death and just as Raisa had done when they were younger, she held her sister close for what seemed to be hours before she had left her room.
Many a night had gone by where Raisa sat with Raiko and out of the time she had spent there at the church, it was where Raisa spent most of her time. Preparing to visit her again, Raisa made sure her dress was in order and her hair tightly wrapped so that none would fall in front of her face. As she made it to her sister’s room, Raisa was surprised not to see her there, thinking the head priest might know of her whereabouts, Raisa immediately set off to his quarters. After she had reached his sleeping quarters she took a breath and knocked on his door...there was no answer. Knocking again, the door slowly slid upon, which she did not intend to happen but, as it did, Raisa sneered and covered her mouth and nose as an odd stench crept through her nostrils.
Covering her nose and leering in, Raisa stared as she found Raiko and the head priest within the same bed; Raiko was fast asleep on top of him and the stench of sex filled his chambers. Outraged of her younger sister’s actions, Raisa tore away her dress and took up her clothing from when she had first arrived. She was leaving, however, as she prepared to leave her room another priest stood in front of her. The man forbade her to leave, yet, he was not enough to deter her. Pushing him out of the way, she was caught off guard when he grabbed her by her hair and then slammed her into the wall behind her. After being pinned underneath him, the man began to grope her and then proceeded to shove his hand down her jodhpurs. Fearful and enraged, Raisa drew a hidden dagger and stabbed the priest several times in his head. Escaping through the window of her room, Raisa left the church behind and set forth to the west.
Eighteen she now was and she had no place to go. Venturing through her homeland, she had asked questions about a rumored witch which was killed long ago; just to see if the people were just as twisted as she recalled. Raisa had learned that her mother was put to death because she was accused of witchcraft but in addition to that, she had been accused of becoming impregnated by a demon. This brought not only shock but anger to Raisa’s already emotionally battered mind but that soon fell on deaf ears after she was told of what had become of the husband, her father. He had been beaten; whipped, tortured and eventually stoned to death for the people believed he too, was a demon. Leaving the land behind was her next action.
She wanted nothing to do with the people of that land. Raisa contemplated on killing them all but then again, her mother refused to be saved as she could have easily been able to lift the column Raisa was too weak to move…was it…true? Or could it have been a cover so that Raisa could escape with little to no chance of being noticed? They were answers which Raisa did not have. The only thing she did have, were her mother’s sword and her mother’s diary.
As she traveled, she came across those who had attempted to rob her. She killed them. There were also those who had attempted to rape her; they attained nothing more than a merciless death but not before being parted with them very thing they were born with. As she continued in her travels, she reached a neutral city. The flags bore the symbol of a mythological creature known as a dragon and the citizens were accepting of her. As she made her way pass a church, Raisa inwardly sneered at the thought of her younger sister.
Not paying attention to her surroundings, Raisa was brought back from her thoughts as a shrill scream shattered the silence of the night. Rushing over to the area where the scream originated she found a young man, with the gleam of the moon she could see he was swarthy in complexion and by his features, she could tell he had been Japanese. She questioned herself as to what he could be doing all the way in these parts; yet, she ignored that and immediately entered the fight which he had been in. Raisa, with her skill, had easily killed two of the three men which had opposed the swarthy Japanese. As she thought of the third opponent a gunshot made her instinctively turn and to her enthrallment; the third man fell to the ground—dead. The swarthy young man had shot him and saved her life.
Despite saving the now widowed woman’s life, Raisa and the swarthy young man were arrested and imprisoned. As they had what seemed to be all the time to get to know one another, he introduced himself as Kusanagi. His name screamed Japanese as did his features. As they spoke, Raisa learned that Ky was a Christian and had just come from a church just before they met. Raisa’s initial hatred began to surface but at the same time, it had not the ability to muster as much strength as it once was capable. Ky was a Christian, yet, he did not attempt to bring Raisa harm, instead, he saved her life and fought side by side with her (to a degree). Ignoring her wavering thoughts, Raisa kept a stern and frozen friendship with Ky as they remained chained in the castle dungeon awaiting their judgment. After two weeks of barely eating a thing, the pair was greeted by a man known as Girardot and with him was the woman who had lost her husband. They both vouched for Ky and Raisa’s release apparently.
Raisa believed that there had to be some form of payment for their release and she was right. Girardot had struck a deal with a few officials and in order for them to escape prison and possibly even the gallows, they were being to seek redemption and to atone for their crimes of murder, they would craft for the military. Raisa thought it a decent idea while Ky on the other hand found it to be unacceptable but seeing not a decent other end to this problem, Raisa accepted the terms. Shortly after, Ky did as well.
From then on, they worked.
It was one month before her nineteenth birthday that she had decided to join the military and seeing Ky as her only friend, she pitched the idea to him as well.
At first he had been indecisive about it but Raisa reassured him that it could benefit them both in terms of freedom and mobility. Possibly even a chance to escape. As the month of January came and gone, Ky had finally made his decision and not only that, but it was now February the fourteenth--the day of Raisa’s nineteenth birthday. Raisa was nervous about her mother’s words, however, knowing what she was told to do, Raisa vowed to never return to her homeland and she also vowed to live by the sword. As for the diary, Raisa has only begun to read what her mother has left behind.
Main Weapon(s)
Wōdāo: Her Wōdāo, (a Chinese sword dubbed “Sapphire”) is a weapon which was given to her by her mother and this weapon was the very weapon which her mother used in her younger days. It is a Damascus based sword which weighs nearly twenty-five pounds (the hilt itself weighs eight pounds, yet this is not factored into the original twenty plus pounds). This proud blade has kept Raisa alive while ending the lives of those who dared oppose her whether it be on the field of battle or just a mere thief whom believed her to be weak. This weapon however, was cracked and then shattered during the battle with Kierkess. Ky and Fazello were also engaged in combat against the sadistic soldier and it was the joint effort of the two males which brought about the death of the Dalkian in cold blood.
It mattered none, yet, for her blade to be shattered, it broke her. Raisa herself felt as if she had suffered a greater death than truly dying herself. Sapphire was the only thing which held a tie to her mother other than the diary which was left behind for Raisa to specifically read. As the war drew to a close, Raisa began to sink into depression for the loss of something which meant dear to her.
Shéng Biāo: A Shéng Biāo is one of the flexible weapons in Chinese Martial Arts. This weapon is 10 metres long and is also made of Damascus Steel. Instead of rope, this weapon is made of steel in the shape of a thin but strong chain. This weapon holds a steel dart at the end and is used to catch opponents at a distance as well as ensnare foes as well as disarm them. Raisa is capable of using this weapon to twine, bind, circle, strike, pierce, as well as strangle.
Despite mainly using her hands to control this hidden weapon, Raisa is capable of using her this weapon from nearly any joint of her body, such as her feet, elbows, and even her neck. Her aim with her revolvers as well as her aim with her Shéng Biāo, are both enhanced due to her high end hand-to-eye coordination. She is ambidextrous with this weapon just as she is with her blade and firearms which make her unpredictable for she can use her weapons in nearly limitless fashions.
Raisa considers Sapphire and the Shéng Biāo to be one weapon as they were handed to her as such. Despite how others may address her weapons, in the end, they are hers and no one else's, thus their words bear no meaning for they cannot deem what is it not theirs. Especially, if they have never witnessed anything of the like.
| Name | Sapphire |
|---|---|
| Classification | Sword/Rope (Chained Spike) Dart |
| Length | 80 cm. |
| Weight | 21 lbs. |
| Era | Fourteenth Century/Sixth Century |
| Region | China |
| Cultural Sphere | China |
| Special Modification |
A Shéng Biāo is fitted into the handle of this heavy Damascus based sword |
Sub-Weapons
Dual Wheel-Lock Revolvers (at each thigh) dubbed “Heartless & Vindicate”.
Dual War Daggers at her waist.
Discipline
Raisa’s technique revolves around the drawing and sheathing of her weapon. Her discipline is that of Iaido and with the teachings of her mother, Raisa knows the arts of Kashima-Shinryū which make her the more lethal a combatant. Raisa is capable of remarkable speeds even when there is the slightest of an opening in her opponent’s defenses.
Act: I, Subchapter
As the war drew to its inevitable end, Grandall was victorious. People cheered, soldiers threw their helms in the air and cheered as well. Others raised their weapons in the air and took in the moment immediately remembering all those which they had lost during this lengthy war. Raisa shared none of their joy or sadness. Her despair was for her weapon Sapphire. She was on her knees. Covered in blood that belonged to her as well as others staring at the broken shards of her beloved weapon. Kierkess was the one who shattered her blade with his serrated greaves. As she collected each shard, she held back her tears. Not a cut was received from retrieving the pieces of her sword yet what had occurred to her weapon was what had broken her so.
This was her mother's blade which was entrusted to her by none other. As she fought battle after battle she held hope and strength behind this very blade and now...it lay in death. Broken in 56 pieces of Damascus Steel. As every shard was collected, Raisa stored them in her carrying case and prepared for the journey back to Parousian Territory.
One week had passed before she set foot within her room and as she did, she ignored Ky as he attempted to soothe her pain and instead of cleaning her blade...she sat in silence. Three days had passed since she sat down and her eyes diverted rarely from the pouch of shattered blade.
Fazello had even attempted to move her by force yet she gave a warning shot which nearly cost him his manhood. Heeding the warning, he left her be. She was no longer in the random mood to bicker and argue as they normally had done. True it is she found it entertaining yet there was not urge let alone joy to be had with it now. Hours had gone by before Ky came to her door once more, he brought food and water. Boar Meat dabbled in flavorful fat and it was also seasoned with peppers so that her meal was spicy just as she loved it to be. Her drink was none other than heated water for Raisa had tea leaves within her room she could use. As he brought it to her, she said nothing. Even as he sat next to her she moved not an inch.
It was nothing but silence for nearly an hour before a glint of pride struck Ky's eyes. He asked her if she needed help restoring it which she answered not. He also added on that. "...Damascus is not going to survive forever alone. You know that as much as I do. If we work together we could possibly make it better than before." He hesitated before adding onto that: "...I'm sure your mother would want you to keep her pride wholly-alive...right?" Despite bracing himself for incoming pain, he was partly shocked as well as relieved when she released nothing more than a light sigh.
To her, it was almost as his words echoed off a chord within her, making the offer one which Raisa could not ignore. She immediately accepted the idea and the next night, work began in the restoration of Sapphire.
Act: II, Girardot's Rebellion
With the beginning of the Rebellion, Raisa has brought Sapphire back to her pride and glory. She marveled at its strength and its new found sharpness yet as she attempted to add finishing touches to it, she made a mistake. She wanted Sapphire to be Sapphire, yet she accidentally colored the blade incorrectly and now the blade was redder than blood. Cursing herself for her mistake she was not saddened at all. Taking her blade within her hand she recalled just how it had been. Sapphire was her mother's weapon which was given to her yet as that blade shattered, she had lost all her innate strength but now, with the blade re-forged, this was truly her weapon and with only the blade being affected, the tsuka and Shéng Biāo were still their original color. Raisa evaluated this and came to the resolution that she was now fighting alongside her mother for her work and her mother's original design were now in one.
It nearly warmed her frigid heart to think of such a thing--yet, in hindsight, she knew aught was amiss as several of those whom were initially of Central were beginning to change their routines. More guards patrolling any given area, less customers due to the increase of swords. She had a gut feeling that fell thoughts were slowly beginning to surface.
Seven months had passed before she learned of Girardot's rebellion. As this came to her she immediately prepared. Raisa knew that Grandallian Forces would be dispatched to locate and kill him on sight even though the orders were given to novitiate commanders to bring him back alive. As she prepared her weapons, Raisa soon realized that she had not received her notice. Her notice was a declaration stating she was needed within the coming conflict and she had not received one. Ky had received his and was placed in the Unit Dawn. As she recalled, Dawn was an Infiltration Unit much like Annebella's Squadron Relic. He left as soon as he had obtained his and Raisa knew why he had left so suddenly.
It was due to Raiko's betrayal. Raisa and Fazello both knew Raiko would betray him and Raisa had overheard the people (mainly women) speaking of it. Yet it had been these same individuals which continually jested that she and Ky should be wed. Raisa had made herself purposely vomit before the one whom had suggested such a thing and then ventured to the Svipul in order to buy her favored delicacy. Boar Meat seasoned with spices and peppers.
Meanwhile she perfected her Heartless and Vindicate for this upcoming battle, Raisa received her notice yet, it was delivered by Priya, or as she was known, Captain of the Anti-Rebellion Force.
Their orders were as followed:
I: Search for and Aid struggling Units
II: Kill and or Capture any Rebellious Individuals
III: Kill and or Imprison any Persons Assisting the Rebels
That is All~
A week had passed after her notice was delivered. As she made her way to the designated area, she was met with open hostility. Rebels had attempted to kill her yet due to the urban ghost town, Raisa was safer than they were. She acted as Aliyah would, and ran to hide. As they drew close, Raisa surprised them and slew each of them before performing the same tactic. After they were all killed, she resumed her path and reunited with Gungnir who had merged with Valor and Surina for this mission. She found it to be Hell to work alongside Raiko yet Raisa knew that soon after this conflict, she and would have nothing more to worry of. They (Ky and Raisa) would be released from their duties and she knew this due to the Emperor stating it himself. Although she could swear there had been a mixture of hatred and relief amongst his face as well as his words.
The events of the Rebellion passed swiftly. The two surviving member of the Unit Dawn were located and with Dawn, the Commander of the unit with the same name, and Sergeant Kusanagi, Gungnir held most of its original members. Fazello had been missing as of the final battle with the Rebels. He had joined their cause. Why she did not know though given the chance, she would have let him go if she had been the one to cross paths with him. As much as she knows, Ky had shot Fazello in the chest. With that, he had fallen into the surrounding ravine.
She saw Ky's depression yet that was his problem. She had always told him to look before you shoot unless in a dire situation and for him to forget that was something which he had to deal with. As Fazello's death reached Priya, she was saddened by his loss yet, she would mourn after this Rebellion had been crushed. Raisa thought it a loss since she would now need to seek another to keep her entertained through argument. Despite this loss, his body was never found which only meant that he had survived not only being shot but also his plunge into the ravine which the final confrontation against Girardot was held. At least, this is what she thought.
After Girardot's death, much speculation surrounded Strife and his sword, Ambition. The blade, according to Priya and Surina, "bled" and Surina claims that the blade was pulsating as if it were alive and in fact a beating heart. Raisa would have laughed at such accusations yet, she could not for she felt an immense chill wash over her moments before Strife made his enthralling appearance. She had also overheard Raiko speaking of how she felt sick just before Strife appeared as well. Ky grimly joked that Strife was the child's father and that he would kill her and the child yet, Priya and Surina both did what they could to pay him no mind for they knew why Ky acted as he did Raiko.
Raisa had decided that she would look into Strife for herself until Kuro advised her not to. Wanting his reason for her to not get involved he told her. Strife in fact wielded a false Soul Edge. Raisa initially laughed yet, when Kuro asked her if she felt sick or if she were going to pass out her laughter diminished. He told her that he had been undercover investigating Strife and now that he had witnessed Girardot's death he was certain that Strife in fact had "The Composite" in his possession. With that said, he left her in critical disarray.
She had learned the Soul Edge, or The Composite, was of a Demonic Origin and for her to feel it before anyone else would prove to what the people of her birthland had said--Her Mother was a Demon. Yet, if that were the case, she shows no state of such or as it is called, Malfestation.
With slight fear and worry clouding her mind, Raisa paid little mind to Priya as she went on ahead with Raisa to assault Grandall and eventually bring Strife to justice. Raisa assumed she had spoken to Kuro as well. Though, looking at the facts of her own life, that would mean that Raine, and Raiko were not even human. With much disapproval, Raisa stayed away from the beginning of Priya's assault to focus on her own life as well as her origin. First, she would need to locate the one person who may or may not have any information she could use; and that is her elder sister, Raine.
Main Weapon During the Rebellion
Disparity (Formerly Sapphire) is her weapon and after restoring it to perfect condition she has practiced upon her own skill. Now, a blade as red as blood as its finishing coat, Raisa's pride has been reborn and she is now as strong-willed as ever.
Sub Weapons of Act: II
Dual Minquelet-Lock revolvers of her own modification.
Two dual-pronged daggers at her waist.
The hidden Shéng Biāo within the tsuka of Disparity.
A hidden dagger which was given to her as a present. This dagger came from Ky.
Appearance as of Subchapter: II
Raisa has grown her hair considerably since her initial introduction. After she and Ky arrive in Spain, she now has a long ponytail which is ever encased within a metallic wrapping. The length runs down to the small of her back and her bangs hang just stopping at her eyebrows.
Act: II, Subchapter
As she resides with Temperance for a time, Raisa slowly begins to worry over Ky simply vanishing. Despite knowing what he was going to do, it seemed almost that of an empty feeling not lending him her aid. After speaking with Temperance, his elder cousin, she bid Raisa to wait a few days so that she could at least have one to travel with. As the days passed, Raisa had slowly begun to become anxious and even more so, she had begun to truly worry.
It was a Sunday when Raisa's escort arrived. Yet with her was a familiar face. Upon seeing Fazello once again, she explains the situation revolving around the missing Japanese. Initially, he wanted to help her in her searching, however, that plan would have to wait. With thieves running the streets, it was far from safe to leave yet, that was the least of their problems.
The men had followed Fazello and were eager to see him dead, sadly, upon seeing Ferriera, Temperance, and Raisa herself, each Corsair, (thief by another name) had many other thoughts in mind. With Ferriera's initial killing of three of the intruders, an all out fight ensued. Unbeknownst to either of them was that Raisa had been forced outside and as such, was shot within her left shoulder which hampered the use of her left arm (her dominant arm). Despite this limitation she handled herself, but only barely. If it were not for Kami (whom had chose to follow Fazello), Raisa may have possibly died. With the aid of a Highwayman, a Runaway, Arms Smuggler/Dealer, Lady Outlaw, and one from the Far East, Raisa was able walk away from that conflict alive.
Temperance was the one to 'fix 'er up'. After extracting the ball from her shoulder, cleaning and dressing the wound, the woman left her to her lonesome. This left Raisa alone with only her thoughts. Thoughts both painful as well as nullifying:
For the first time, she was unable to protect herself and had to use alternatives in order to survive.
After years of looking out for others, she now sees that even she needs to be rescued and is not above anyone's blade. Little did she know, she was not alone and it was upon the stranger's words which alerted her to their presence.
"I trust you are well?"
Raisa jumped from the sudden voice and soon regretted it. Holding her shoulder she grit her teeth afore saying anything.
"...I'll survive..."
Raisa recognized her from Parousia. This was the woman who used "that" longbow. At the same time, Raisa also felt lightheaded whenever this woman or the one Ky called "Kami" was near her.
"Might I ask of you something?"
Raisa scoffed and chose to say nothing more.
"...what brings you here Zhirova?"
With her surname spoken aloud, Raisa gave more attention to the woman. Yet, afore she could speak, the woman continued:
"Be it of some quest? Something along the lines of power?"
"...power? Hmph. My strength is my "power" and nothing is greater than my will to survive."
"Well, said. Arrogant, but well-said nonetheless."
"...you are giving me a literal headache...what...do you...want?"
"Only to ask of your motives. After all, your "headache" as you deem it is the result of your infection."
Raisa knew well what the woman spoke of. Even though she had kept the information to herself, it appeared that she knew of it. Flattening herself against the wall of the room, she kept her eyes closed as she spoke:
"Soul Edge has been in your blood for many a year...this is why you are in such pain."
"I figured as much."
Silence hung between them before Raisa spoke again:
"...that mean you want me dead I take it?"
The woman looked to Raisa without saying a word.
"Heh...you'll get your wish...but, only after I find Ky."
"The brother of Tempest? Err, Kisaragi Ren, as you know him. W-"
"Someone named Ouroboros killed him."
The woman went silent.
"H-he's..."
"I heard it from Brass as she told Ky...and now, he's hunting him."
"Her."
"I don't care what gender they are..."
The Japanese sighed.
"Only after I save him, will you take my head and when that time is here, I'll not simply...let you kill me. You'll have to earn it, just as I've earned my right of living through war, through bloodshed, and through chaos."
"...I see..."
With that, she stood and advanced towards the window. Stopping as her hand was upon the window sill, she watched the wind carry a small piece of trash about the streets below.
"You are very much like Raine in your own ways."
Raisa laughed at this.
"You can laugh if you will, but she bid me the self same promise as you have done...just not for the same reason."
Her laughter ceased as this was had begun to sink in.
"She is hunting her own adversary for the death of one she cared deeply for...yet, if that be your wish, then you shall have it."
With that, the Japanese woman left her. With her head easing in pain, she could tell the woman was truly leaving her be...for a time.
Yet, this meant that she needed to locate Ky before he was killed. Tempest was an Alchemist and for him to be killed off, that meant Ky stood little to no chance against whoever this Ouroboros was.
Without waiting for her wounds to heal, Raisa, as usual, got to her feet, dressed, and immediately set out in order to find Ky before he's killed.
Act: I Relationships
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Raine is her elder sister. Raisa and Raine got along as siblings should yet, they interacted little. Raine was too caught up within her studies to bother with trivial things such as "playing" with her younger sisters. Though upon meeting one another in Untide, Maletta; the two act more as sisters than Raisa does with their younger sister. They respect each other and will (as well as have) defend one another with their very lives. Raiko is Raisa's younger sister. Raisa always looked after her younger sister and still does after all these years, though with far less care. Raisa's view on Raiko is that no matter what happens, she is still family. However; Raisa is conflicted with allowing her younger sibling be the 'pretty little whore' opposed to beating her for disgracing their mother. Raisa dislikes Raiko for her whorish behavior yet, underneath her cold if not sardonic exterior, she still cares for her younger sibling. |
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Ky is the only male she fully trusts despite how rash and heartless she may be towards him. By her standards and how she justifies her methods and attitude, she deems it 'proper etiquette'. Others refer to this relationship as 'tough love' for outsiders who view their behavior can see how Raisa acts, reacts, and judges whatever he does. Even Priya questions her methods yet, Raisa counters with 'how "pampered" he is and that relying on everyone to lend their aid is nothing but a child's foolish fantasy of a Utopia.' The two of them share the same 'punishment' and must lend their craft to the Grandallian military to enhance their chances for victory when it comes to weaponry. If they should refuse, they are to both be hanged. Despite her cold persona and his warm personality, they are able to co-exist rather finely even under immense stress. Fazello is one whom was adopted into Gungnir. E'laura was the one who dragged him back to General Girardot who was surrounded by his allies as well as Exalted, Gungnir, and the late arrival of Relic. Despite their differences, they hold a sibling-esque relationship which oft borders childish antics. Beyond this, she trusts the man to a degree. As she has seen, his intentions are based in a just manner, however, he IS a highwayman. Several whom have held such a title have been killed as she was on her way to Parousia. Ultimately, his background gives her pause. |
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Priya Delgado is her Commanding Officer and one of the few individuals she respects. Compared to her sister, Raisa looks to her own commanding officer with respect and restrains her tongue only by her request. Other than that, she sees no reason to bite her tongue in front of anyone. Raisa simply does not see eye to eye with Surina Delgado, it has always been this way and it was after she was insulted by Surina. Ever since then, the two have been at each other's throat (so to speak) and are nearly drawn into physical confrontation often. Even after they are forced to rely on each other to survive during the war against Dalkia, this has not changed. She merely tolerates her instead of liking her. |
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Aliyah quickly befriends Raisa when she is adopted into Gungnir. Before Fazello to be precise. Raisa gives tips and also lends her aid to Aliyah as she tends to her armaments. The reason for this is due to how she cares for them just as she, herself, cares for her own blade, Sapphire. The two are close and one of the few which Raisa considers as a "friend". Riese is a woman whom has years upon Raisa in age as well as skill. Before the war had even begun, the two of them were seen together at times either swilling ale or in mere conversation. Raisa suspects that Riese was once an Assassin. This is due to her vast knowledge of the world and even her techniques in combat as well as her vast knowledge on poisons and works of the human body. In addition to this, Raisa has carefully studied her actions which leaves little to no doubt of Riese whatsoever. Raisa bears no ill-will to the woman, that said, they are kindred spirits in several ways. One way is steeped in religious views: "Can you see something when it is not there? If you say it is there, how can you be certain? Hallucinations are possible in life just the same as well as delusions of grandeur after death." —Riese Despite their similarities, it should be noted that: "...one who can easily close the distance 'tween you or a target with little to no detection on your part or theirs, is one to always be wary of." —Raisa |
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Gallagher is a man whom has won her trust by his feats alone. She has witnessed him protect the opposing gender (women) from those whom would wish to hunt and enslave them. He has also done rightly by Raisa in terms of deliveries and is a good patron. For the most part, she finds his character to be in good standing and values his opnions over most others. the two are able to laugh and joke back a forth, much like how Raisa and Fazello interact, but with much more peaceful means. To Raisa, the 'Man of the Ire' is a welcome sight no matter what form of day she is having. Dawn Larrieux wanted Raisa to be within her squadron, however, Raisa denied the request as her ties were with Gungnir. She made it clear that she meant no disrespect, however, she was well seated with where she was. Dawn oft visited Raisa when time allowed so that she could try to pursuade her to join, yet Dawn was continually turned down. Disheartened, Dawn merely informed Priya that: "You're lucky to have found one who knows their loyalties. Do your best to keep her, for her kind are rare." —Dawn |
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Act: I
—Trivia
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Raisa is nineteen as the war begins.
She is normally seen wearing a deep shade of blue as well as black and silver. It can be assumed that these are her favorite colors yet it is not known which is by far her most preferred.
As storms roll in, people oft take to their homes and shelter themselves from the downpour of rain, however; Raisa is always seen within that very same rain. It is her favorite kind of weather next to fog.
Of all armor types and forms, she loves the Lamellar pattern of armor simply because it is of a proper fitting and can be worn either under clothing or even mixed/stitched/hewn into what she desires to wear. This also ensures high mobility opposed to being weighed down whilst in combat.
Being biracial has led to her family suffering from discrimination as well as prejudice, ultimately leaving her detached from most people. This detachment and callousness from others has allowed Raisa to develop her fierce independence.
Her favorite food/fruit to eat are strawberries. Peaches are a distant second favorite.
Raisa takes immense pride in maintaining herself and is well versed in the manners of hygiene and physical upkeep. She also knows how to tend to minor gashes and light wounds due to her spending months fighting for her life as she traveled from Russia to Parousia alone.
February the fourteenth, her birthday, is acknowledged but is not mentioned until February the twenty-fourth. Ky is the one who remembers and decides to purchase her a gift. Not flowers, foods, or a measly dress, (she would kill him if he ever tried to fit her in a dress) instead, Ky purchases a silver necklace and crafts the pendant, (a dagger) himself. Originally he planned on having it be a small and heavy charm with a portion of it being made to symbolize a revolver, but the cost would have been too much to purchase the scrap needed for such a small yet complicated piece.
Raisa only speaks with those of Gungnir, with very few exceptions. She limits herself to speaking with only Riese, Gallagher, and Raiko (if she has no choice in the matter). All other instances are indirect or she literally has no choice in the matter.
She is on speaking terms with General Girardot yet she does not take advantage of this privilege as others do. Aeneas uses his connection to Girardot to not only make his way into Exalted, he also uses Girardot to be sent to the front lines when the war begins despite his training being incomplete. Raisa believes this to be rather foolish, yet if he is willing to throw his life away in for the sake of glory and fame then it is not her problem to worry of.
Raisa wields her Wōdāo (Chinese Sword) along with dual daggers at her waist, two dual wheel-locking revolvers and a hidden Sheng Bāo. She utilizes all of these weapons in order to survive during the war against not only Dalkia, but Halteese, as well as Maletta.
Raisa holds a fierce loyalty to family and holds them in highest regards compared to others. Raiko is no exception to this loyalty. Though, Raiko is only concerned for her own interests opposed to family bonds and other matters.
Despite having a tense relation to her younger sister, Raisa has a strong bond with her elder sister, Raine. To this end, the two actually act as if they are related: finishing each others sentences, thoughts, as well as know what the other may be thinking or what they will want to do.
Although their meeting was brief, Raisa openly showed emotion (much more emotion than is ever shown to a present Raiko) simply because she had found her sister whom was moved to England after constant threats from the Church nearly seven years ago.
Act: II
—Girardot's Rebellion
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After her blade, Sapphire, was shattered, she fell into an uncharacteristic state of depression and it took both Ky and Aliyah to pull her back to her original self.
Sapphire, her blade, is renamed 'Disparity' to show that despite the loss of her mother (her sword being shattered and her mistake upon its finishing touch, which dyed the blade red) she believes that she and her mother have come together as one in one blade and that they are both represented in the reforged blade. Despite this, revelation, she has named the blade as such due to it not being as it was originally intended, Disparity, can mean either different/strange as well as subordinate and underling--if not lesser.
Was indifferent towards Girardot's death, however, she still acknowledges the loss, and even pays her respects despite disliking such things. This gives Raisa a rather callous look whereas it appears that she cares naught for any but myself.
Acknowledges the supposed loss of Fazello, yet she mourns for none but her mother and father.
Was enthralled by Kuro's words and with his words, she became indecisive of herself. Raisa is now unsure of what she is, let alone who she is supposed to be due to the effects she felt when Strife made his way onto the field of battle. She also fears for Raiko's safety as well seeing as she felt similar effects as well.
Raisa seeks her elder sister at the end of Girardot's Rebellion so she can find answers to not only her own life, but the lives of her remaining family members. Furthermore, she wishes to learn more of her elder sibling as well as the last time the two of them spent adequate time with one another--their mother and father had been alive.
Returns to Parousia at the same time that her elder sister does. They unknowingly work together and cross paths within Strife's castle. From there, they work side-by-side, Wōdāo and Kodachi against the soldiers, both corrupt and foolish knights of Parousia.
Raisa crosses paths with Chester once more and without much conversation, they fight. This fight ensued until each of them were disarmed and the fight came down to fists. It was through deception that Raisa walked away from that fight but at the same time, Chester too, acted on deception when he drew a hidden dagger.
Chester engaged an unarmed Raisa who fought him bare handed despite receiving grievous wounds. Yet, with the corruption, The Composite Kuro called it, the very proximity of the weapon healed her wounds which enabled her to fight on and miraculously regenerate from being stabbed in the chest.
The Tactician was forced to withdraw when Raine entered the fight. Masking his escape with Smoke Powdered Bombs as well as explosives, Raine ignored him and tended to Raisa. From this, she explained why she still lived and how it was possible--further demonstrating their mother's tainted blood.
Makes plans to temporarily leave Parousia behind and acts on these plans once she hears of Ky's plans of leaving the country. As such, she accompanies the brothers, Kisaragi and Kusanagi until Kisaragi departs--thus leaving her to travel with Kusanagi towards The Canary Islands.
Arriving in Spain, she follows Kusanagi through the streets and is amazed that he speaks Spanish fluently. He tells her that he'll try to teach her when they've the time but he'll make no promises.
Despite knowing Brass for a short time, she has taken a liking to her. Raisa thinks not much of this fact until Brass wraps her arms around Raisa and gently bites her neck. This sparks a fight 'tween the two which came to a standing of no contest.
Throughout her time in Spain, Brass has made four attempts at wooing Raisa, all of which had failed miserably.
Weeks pass after she meets Brass and when Kusanagi leaves, she begins to worry over his safety. Brass invites her to the roof for a drink and details what she plans to do. That said, she bids Raisa to wait until another comes to help her search.
As they speak and drink, Brass points out that she only tested Raisa's strength for if she travels with her cousin (Ky), she needs to be able to at least defend herself; however, Raisa believes that Brass is suggesting much more than that.
Subchapter II ~ Act: III
—Trivia
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Combated Guilt to a standing of no contest--proving her inhuman bearings.
Travels to her homeland in order to learn the fates of those whom she held dear. The Highwayman accompanies her during this trip as they search for Ky in the process as he was seen heading in this direction. As they came to a dry trail, she shares her earlier memories of her life before it was taken from her. Fazello simply listens and gives her insight to the situation only when Raisa asks for it.
Discovers that the very same man which romanced Raiko (before either of them had left Russia years prior to the Parousian and Dalkian Conflict) had devised a plot which would not only see Parousia undone--but Priya specifically, to be murdered. In haste, she departs her homeland and makes for Parousia.
Crosses paths with Aliyah and Pfieffer after they were bested by Kusanagi. Upon hearing what has occurred between them, she halts her return and begins her search for him alone. The Highwayman chooses to leave with the two of them as protection, which leaves Raisa to return to the area which he was last seen (according to Aliyah) to begin her search anew.
Is located by Tyranny, whom engages the Russian in combat. Despite her slowly brimming demonic nature, she is still not a match for the Lycanthrope. Raisa destroys the complex by setting it afire in order to stage a tact-driven retreat. Which she then, from a distance, "snipes" Tyranny and as such, she believes that her pursuer has been killed as she aimed for the side of her face.
Despite this magnificent shot, Tyranny rises from the ground after Raisa departs in tears from being shot in the head and the pain it brings.
Arrives in the port city just before Sumatra as the trail once again, runs cold. Unknown to her, she had been followed. Stopping in a tavern, she searched for leads there and turned up luck. A woman tells her that the description of a young man whom had left for parts due to the west. She claims that he spoke of Europe but was not entirely sure.
Following this lead, Raisa made her way back to Europe via ship. She waited for three days before boarding and an additional week and a half before arriving at her destination.
With few clues to go on, she chose to roam about herself and see what she could find.
Act:I Gallery
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Act:II Gallery
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Act:III Gallery
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First Link Set
| Significant Characters of The Mantis War |
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| Alexandria | Aliyah Ruel Halteese | Annebella Williams | Arrai | Dawn Larrieux | E'laura Riga | Gallagher | Garrett | Kami | Kusanagi Ky | Myth | Noémi | Pfieffer Reaux | Priya Delgado | Raiko | Raine Zhirova | Raisa Zhirova | Surina Delgado | Temperance Rivera | Trevor |
Second Link Set
| Minor Characters of The Mantis War |
|---|
| Achilla | Agony | Aneko | Arsenic | Asa | Bess | Crucifix | Goldback Jane | Heresy | Isai | Johann Krieg | Kisaragi Ren | Kissa | Lotus | Malice | Maria | Nikita | Noelle | Ouroboros | Ryia | Samara | Sasaki Kuro | Sheamus McNoil | Shira | Shuu-Rai | Sieg Volkov | Sin | Tala | Tyranny | Venom |