Fields Of Desire [Veralia/Stella]

Story? That word made Veralia raise an eyebrow as she's never really been asked about her past apart from some of her musings to Sabriel here and there.

"What exactly are you looking for me to tell you, hm? I wouldn't have the faintest idea of where you to start with my past."

A soft, low chuckle escaped her as she rested her right hand under her cheek, her mind drifting to the earlier, tumultuous days. The journey from being human to becoming a Hollow, and eventually mastering her powers, was filled with challenges and strife—a narrative of survival and transformation that shaped who she had become.

She doubted such tales of struggle would appeal to someone as youthful and spirited as Stella, but the question lingered in the air, inviting her to perhaps share more than she typically would

The mention of what Veralia did 20 to 30 years ago made a look of intrigue come on to Veralia's face as her right eyebrow arched upward. Taking time to recollect her thoughts, her eyes as closed she had a flicker of flames burn in her mind. Sucking her teeth, all that played to her were bad memories.

"20 to 30 years ago I was getting the hang of this fire of mine. Eh, I figured it would be the only thing that would keep me safe. My human memories are hazy, but I do know when I became a hollow I was filled with endless envy and it made me pack a punch. So I kept fighting over and over and over and finding a way to survive until I evolved."

While Veralia spoke, her voice a mix of reflection and faint bitterness. As she raised her left hand, a sphere of emerald fire ignited within her palm. With a glance upwards, she would shoot it off before the entire sky, for the next two city blocks, became drenched in emerald fire. A wild release of smothering spiritual power surged into the forest; blowing away trees and debris. Yet, in the heart of it all, Veralia left a flicker of her aura around Stella to protect her; but she would get a grasp of the intense flame as the area felt like a barren desert.

"Not sure if I'm being overdramatic or not, but I can say it was miserable holding that bitterness in my heart. That envy burned my soul to the core and forced me to evolve into an Arrancar until I learned to live with it as best I can, try to master it, and try to fight for my place in Hueco Mundo and stand on my own against a world of monsters."

She looked back at her palm, the fire extinguished, leaving a trace of her disinterest in the power that had once consumed her.

"And I achieved that, but the satisfaction I wanted didn't exist. It's just an endless desire for the next thing and that grows tiresome."

As the sky gradually cleared, returning to its tranquil blue, Veralia's gaze shifted back to Stella, her head tilted slightly as she offered a glimpse into her current state of mind.

"So here I am with you and this planet. Maybe I'm seeking something, someone, or a place to fill in that void. I'm not sure if I'll ever be satisfied, but the time I've spent with you has been pleasant. Take that for what it's worth."

Well, that was enough brooding for one day.

Veralia took a few seconds to process and take in the sight of Stella hugging her. Remaining silent during that time, her face transitioned into a soft, slightly smug smile. Veralia seemed amused by this turn of events as she rubbed her companion's head.

"Mhm, I'd have to be blind to fail to see that fact you enjoy my presence."

Continuing to stroke Stella's hair, she affirmed the sentiment reciprocally.

And you'd be right to think I enjoy having you around too."

Tilting her head slightly to the right, Veralia closed her eyes; taking time to reflect on her thoughts. When they opened again, a mild playful tone exited her lips once again.

"But your sneaky, though. Planning to kill me with all this mushiness, huh?"

Veralia glanced upward to where Stella flicked her forehead, giving a flick back in return as she chuckled dryly. "

"Little Miss Baurer, I was joking. You couldn't willingly kill me even if someone pointed a gun to your head."

With a snort leaving her nostrils, it was clear she was amused. So Veralia's right hand went back to resting under her cheek as she observed her friend; reflecting on her question as she closed her eyes.

"Living to old age is a luxury for hollow and arrancar-alike."

Opening her eyes once more, Veralia seemed to come to an answer as she continued.

"So if we do age, it's likely very slowly. You are more likely to die by combat or violence than old age. I'd have no idea what that upper limit of age even could be, unfortunately."

Her tone was matter-of-fact, acknowledging the harsh truths of their lives while also hinting at the enigmatic nature of their longevity.

The topic of death was a grim one for most beings, but Veralia lived and breathed it. So when the notion of their mortality came up, she chuckled and pat the back of Stella.

"All the more reason to focus on your power. Who knows, maybe you'll get strong enough to where you can live longer. Then I can bully you for a bit longer."

Snorting in jest, she then leaned back and looked up at the sky for a moment; zoning out as she heard Stella propose Veralia visit her in the city of lights. Veralia closed her eyes, considering the suggestion carefully before opening them again to fix her gaze on Stella.

"I'm a rouge and keep to myself, for now, but I'll consider it. I'm not big on the idea, though."

With a casual flick of her wrist, Veralia summoned a fiery garganta, the portal opening to reveal the view of their hotel, underscoring her point.

"I don't see why I need to be there when I can just portal us somewhere less of a headache for me."


Her words highlighted her preference for convenience and her ability to manipulate space, offering alternatives that suited her comfort more than the bustling energy of a crowded city.