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The early morning wind was cold, the frigid breeze flowing in through parted curtains within many a building throughout the Overworld.  It was as if the winds of change themselves were blowing, bringing both glad tidings and the foreboding anxiety of the days ahead.

 

The sound of flapping wings could be heard within all of Kilkis Seres, as perhaps five-hundred pegasi came fluttering from the sky and on to the ground.  Rows upon rows of wyvern riders were adjusting their saddles upon their steed, before clambering on and flying away to the battlefront.  These days in Kilkis Seres were rather usual now, though up until a few weeks prior no one even knew what an army looked like.

 

Queen Shiva stood before a frosted window, her hazel gaze somber as she watched the army below.  Her pale-blue hair had been coiled into a long braid cascading over her shoulder, her silk gowns exchanged for a battlesuit and breastplated armor.  The sapphire-hilted sword rested gingerly upon her hip, its blade feeling like it were truly piercing her very innards at the sickly sight below.  They were now at war, with the man whom she had once loved with all of her being--and still did.  What was worse, he carried the very beliefs she herself embraced, but here she was: fighting the justice for preservation of her own, sacrificing her own thoughts and feelings for the ideals that her father endowed upon her.  It was enough to make her feel sick.

 

She turned away from the window, giving her room one final glance before emerging from it, partially hoping to find Eclaire in the halls nearby but did not expect to.  Her retainer was likely preparing the next fleet to Mystras.  It seemed that she had seldom seen the woman these days, though it was probably for the better.  She didn't need any more confusing emotions to get in her way.  These days, however, it seemed that Eclaire and Maxis were the only two people that she had left to rely upon.  Even Jynn renounced her, breaking her heart in a million pieces and yet she still pretended that it were whole.

 

A wall of ice, that was Shiva's life now.  The light from the long hall windows danced upon her armor and reflected on her hair.  It was no time for reminiscing.  It was time for war.

 

All players that are allied with Kilkis Seres: this is your opportunity to stock up on supplies and bid farewell to loved ones before battle commences in the south.  As for those who were meant to be exiled, it is up to you as to what has happened.  Perhaps they were safely escorted, or they rebelled and broke free.  Perhaps they wish to find their own place in this war, wherever it may be.

 

For those players who have chosen the side of rebellion and aid Lord Raiden: you are likely in Mystras doing something similar in preparation for the great battle ahead.  Strategists work closely with Lord Raiden in determining their formation, one of which may possibly be Rabiyu of Caligo.  The humans have chosen to reside in Mystras after Raiden extended their invitation.  After war had been declared, King Alderon proffered his forces, both within the Overworld and those residing in the World Below, to Raiden's aid, and now Raiden has an army at his disposal of both fey and men.  This may consist of the feared Black Knights, along with the sorceress Everyth.  This is the battle that will determine the fate of both worlds, and thus it was only right for both worlds to become involved and personally invested.

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{Mariel: Mystras; Human incampment}

Agatha Brightwater walked through the human troops King Alderon had brought to Lord Raiden's aid, nodded to a few she knew. It seemed she was just in time for yet another battle to determine the fate of the worlds. Not exactly how she wanted to return to the Overworld and the Fey, but it did seem fitting. But now a choice was before her. When she had been traveling to the Overworld, she had intended to reveal herself to this Lord Raiden and stop this war before it was too late. That opportunity was long past, and she questioned the use of revealing herself now. She had been gone for so long, would any remember her and the Lost Legions? And if they did, would they see her as Fallen? She could almost garunetee that was the attitude of the angelic hosts, and who knew how the other Fey felt. No, perhaps it was best if she joined this fight as a simple human. She had learned to use most of her magic surreptitiously and could blame more obvious uses on the Fey that she felt she wouldn't be hampered in battle.

Pausing in her inspection of the camp, Agatha considered the last time she had joined a war like this. Her face darkened as she remembered the cries of her soldiers as the barrier between worlds was erected. That treachery from Alexander had not faded from memory, nor the desire to avenge her brethren. If Laxander still lived, worse, if he had a hand in this war, more could be lost. She needed answers. Answers a simple human scout could not ask without arrousing suspicion. She would need to find a trustworthy confidant and fast if she wanted answers. And while she looked for one in the Fey, sizing up Lord Raiden and his aides would be beneficial as well. She did not want a repeat performance of trusting Alexander.

Snatching an official looking courier satchel of a sleeping soldier's belt, Agatha headed into the heart of Mystras and hopeful towards Lord Raiden.

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- Imperial City of Exire - Ouranos Castle - Throne Room - Weeks prior -

Thirteen figures were standing in front of the Two thrones above the stairs, one more standing at the Queen's side, thirteen skilled and powerful fey, most of them were silhouettes. It was time for a meeting, one who was requested by Lady Eliltari.
"I know this has been sudden, My Liege, but I fear that the worst outcome has come true," she said while facing both rulers, "War has been declared, Lord Raiden of Mystras will be going to war against Queen Shiva of Kilkis Seres. At this point I am ninety nine percent sure that the battle is unavoidable. Not even my foresight can see what lies beyond this path."
One of the silhouettes turned to look at Eliltari, all while having a slight smirk on her face.
"And I do keep asking, Ainu, what is the purpose of our intervention?" The silhouette of the green draconic arcadian judge, The Honorable Lady Raishan Apateon, asked, "By the grace of our esteemed rulers is that you and Mond are helping Raiden with the efforts of this skirmish, but what is the point? They could have a civil war and it still doesn't concern us."
The next one, the twin brother of Raishan, Lord Elpis Umbrasyl, looked at his sister and put a hand on her shoulder.
"Whatever it may be, sister, the Tide Mother and the King of Kings have decreed that the assisstance of the North will be delivered to Raiden of Mystras," Elpis said, his voice completely devioud of amotion, "Ainu and Luca will offer reports on the situation, and, if worst comes to pass, then we will interfere."
Sifrei glanced at the silhouette of the Black Dragon and rolled his eyes, he hated to be called that by his companion, but he remained silent.
"Lord Raiden shares the same goal as us, the unification of both our world and the world of humans," Leviathan said calmly, "King Alexander sealed the path between worlds and Queen Shiva followed that path. Help was given to Lord Raiden to help him in his mission to dispell the barrier. Lady Eliltari also suspects there are traitors among Raiden's subjects, some who are against the unification. If you are needed then you will be summoned, meanwhile, return to your current assignments."
One by one the silhouettes disappeared, leaving Leviathan, Asura, and Lady Ethiriel alone.

 

 



- Rabiyu, Sifrei, Aurion and Aura - Lord Raiden's Villa -

It had been a few weeks and the seasons were changing already, the wind was getting colder in the mornings, even then the sun was out. There was noise coming from the courtyard of Raiden's villa, which was now normal, even at early hours. The source of the noise was a practice match between two human siblings and one elvish girl. The battle was very one sided, the siblings giving their all to defeat the elf, it was still hard, but now it was easier to fight against the fey for them.
"Keep going, this is your last training session, make it worth it," Rabiyu said to Aura and Aurion, "You made your choice, now you have to see where it leads."
The Siblings ran towards the elf and both swinged their swords upwards, sending Rabiyu's daggers flying, and the elf girl pinned against a tree.
"Is that enough, lady?" Aura said to Rabiyu, "are you happy? we have you and you have no place to run. We won."
Rabiyu blinked and her whole body was covered in mist, said mist then moved pass the siblings.
"Aura! You need to stop taunting fate!" Aurion said to his sister as he turned around quickly, "They possess abilities that we don't!"
The older siblings the threw his sword towards were the mist was gathering. Rabiyu was whole once again, and barely managed to dodge the sword, she then raised one of her hands.
"Enough. You did well, considering that you were fighting against an opponent who can use magic," she said to the siblings, "Remember that and you will be fine on the battlefield."
Sifrei was watching from the side at the training session, slightly impressed that the humans managed to keep up, even if Eliltari wasn't using the full extent of her abilities.
"Good job, friends, you have grow in the weeks that you have spent here," he said with a smile, "Just keep focused and never lose sight of your objective."
The Archangel kept looking at the siblings and Rabiyu, thinking about what the future held in store for everyone, that was until he felt the presence of another angelic being moving closer to the villa, Rabiyu felt that as well.
"I thought the Heavenly host was not going to be part of the battle, Sifrei," she said to the Archangel, "and yet there is a presence of an angel, another besides you."
"I do not know how to asnwer that, Eliltari," he answered, "but I think we will find out soon enough."

Edited by Elrandir

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- Helios - Kilkis Seres - Preparing for War -

"Warn them to stay hidden within the ruins to the northeast. I doubt the war will reach there specifically so quickly." Helios spoke, filling his satchel with potions and medicinal herbs that were brought to him. He stood on top of the tallest tower the castle had to offer, way above to the very top of its roof where he could see the entire city and far beyond. Everyone was getting ready. Civilians were getting ready to protect themselves, barricading their homes while helping the troops with whatever they could. They said goodbyes to those they fear they might never seen again. Soldiers who had never suffered the horrors of war being briefed and reassured that they would do great, that they would survive, though it never eased their fear. Provisions and war beasts were lined up. This was war. There was no way to avoid it, and no turning back. He didn't know what his goal would be. He just knew that he would be there to provide support wherever it would be needed. Whatever they needed for him to transform, he would do it at the best of his abilities. The whole spectrum of the animal kingdom in a single specimen...he just hoped he could control himself enough for it, and that his friends were long gone and safe. He turned to Juliet and Romeo, offering them his arms for them to climb onto him. He gently rubbed their heads, eliciting a cat-like response as they nudged against the action. "Tell them...I love them, and that I'm sorry. For everything." Helios said, pausing as he reached into his pocket, taking out a broken necklace. It was made to fit his frame, with unique gems attached to it. One of the only things he went to the world below with, and one of the only things he managed to return with. He handed it to Romeo, who took it and got it away to its own pouch. "Be safe, you two. If we make it out alive, I'll see you again, alright?" Helios said, smiling softly as he hugged them both. "Now go." He asked, watching as they flew off into the sky. He watched them go until they disappeared into the distance. He hoped it wasn't the last time he'd seen them. Or that the first time his parents got to see him after so long was with him in a body bag. "Right." Helios sighed, stretching as he stood on his feet. The army, though at first cautious in all ways, that the betrayer of the Overworld was going to be among them, some soldiers acknowledged that his skills would be useful. So, he would be there. He jumped down, free falling for a few feet with a smile on his lips, before in a twist of irony transformed into a Caladrius, gliding across the air in circles before flapping down and landing on the entrance staircase, transforming back in a puff of smoke as he landed on his feet. He waited to see the Queen head out. He'll head with the main foot army, following the Queen. They already had air support. I was the ground forces that would suffer the most. Maybe a Cockatrice to scare or an Amarok to stalk.

 

- Morana - Kilkis Seres - Preparing for war -

When Morana ended up coming up all the way to Kilkes Seres...she definitely did not expect to get involved in a war. Yet here she was, prepping herself for the upcoming march to the south that would commence the first war since the reign of the king before the queen. Her weaponry was different than most. She could control the life and plants around her, she had to make sure she had the advantage. She carried a satchel of seeds, not specific of any kind, just making sure they were of trees. Perfect sleeper bombs for unsuspecting soldiers to walk into, before being either thrown into the air, or stabbed by the upcoming branches. She would use a small slingshot to shoot them from distances. If any soldiers were unlucky enough to touch her...she would have to consider to age their skin, to make it rot at the point of impact, where they will either freak out, be in pain, or slowly die as a bacterial infection took over them. "Never saw myself to be a war person. But if it means to keep this place from falling apart, I don't see why not help." Morana hummed to herself. Maybe trying to convince herself to dance along with the beat of this kingdom and not run away with her tribe. Maybe there was something worth it in the end.

 

- Arthur - Lord Raiden's Villa - Preparing for war -

Arthur did not expect for them to engage in a blown out war in the world above, but then again, things never came easy. King Alderon offered his army and forces, and Arthur, loyal to a fault, would fight for the cause. If they won, it meant an alliance between the Overworld and their world below, and hopefully, the answer to their prayers. Trade for food and resources that were becoming so scarce to everyone below. A result of mix of cultures. Maybe even a migration from both worlds to each other, and brand new generation that will be born with no knowledge of the suffering. That was a dream he could fight for. He continued to train for the upcoming months, making sure his skills never became rusty, as he would fight along with his king and his allies until he could no longer stand. He got to meet and get along with the members of the villa, from soldiers to staff. Strangers became acquaintances and friends, and faces began to have names and personalities. He found it dreadful that such cooperation could only come at the face of war. The most impressive, and surprising addition, however, were the humans that came to join them. Humans that had escaped to this world above with the fey that had escaped the castle just as they were leaving. He wanted to ask them so much, but there was little time in between. Train, eat, sleep, repeat. They all had to be ready. Including them. He watched them from one of the doorways. He was waiting for further orders, seeing that he was already prepared for the upcoming battle. He had his armor, his shield, his sword, and his allies. All he needed was the word and he was off. But until then, he enjoyed watching the twins train.

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- Maxis - The Queen's blade - The Precipice of war -

 

"Steady be my blade, steady be my mind, for I shall not leave her side, let no harm befall her as I do so." Maxis let out a small prayer. He wasn't one to pray, he hardly believed in gods, but with the recent events that have caused Shiva such great pain, he could not help not to, he stood by her side as her own son acted against her, he stood by her side through it all, as a silent supporter, since he never knew what to say...it just wasn't like him to be supportive to others, this is what made it so hard for him...

 

As Shiva emerged from her room, clad in a battle armor fit for a queen, Maxis frowned his non-existent face and expression in sadness, "I wished I would never have to see you don such apparel..." Maxis commented as he accompanied her throughout. It was his one and only comment as he accompanied her, he stood silent the rest of the way, waiting for her to say something...anything at all.

 

 

- Henry - Raiden's villa - At the Precipice of war -

 

"So it has come down to this...War..." Henry commented Dryly at the situation everyone found themselves in, as walked by Arthur, whom he noticed was watching his friends from one of the doorways. "Hey." Henry spoke, Unsure of what Arthur's reaction would be in seeing the Dreadnaught, in full splendor and new armor.

 

"Arthur...Correct?" Henry asked the boy  with a plain tone in his voice, as he sat beside him. "Name's Henry...but you probably know me already, suppose they told you about the Dreadnought..." Henry continued. "So...how're the preparations?" He asked.

 

As an awkward silence soon followed. Henry was unsure of Arthur, he figured he'd get to know the boy, since they couldn't speak to each other, probably because Arthur was mostly near Alderon and the others, and if Henry stood near Alderon for an extended period of time, everyone knew they'd end up killing each other.

 

 

- Alastor - The Storm - Precipice of War at Raiden's Villa - 

 

Alastor couldn't stop pacing around, he couldn't stop. he wasn't worried, or anxious, he was in pure excitement at the thought of war, war was in his blood, ever since his childhood he was taught to fight, and taught to love fighting, And as such, sitting on his ass was a no-go, He still hadn't received official orders from Raiden yet. 

 

And that was what he was about to do...He walked up to the door leading to Raiden's study, and slowly opened it. As to not interrupt whatever Raiden was doing. 

 

"Raiden, I wish to talk with you." Alastor spoke, serious as always.

 

(For now this is it, will post with my others soon, since they are sorta detailed posts. Especially Draksis, I got like 4 black knights to control).

Edited by Scrapmaster

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- Arthur - Lord Raiden's Villa - Preparing for war -

Arthur jumped a bit when he turned, not expecting the Dreadnaught at all. He'd heard rumors. Everyone has. Even when trying to pipe it down rumors spread throughput te barracks like literal fire. The betrayer. The unstoppable. The man who had been gifted powers from the Feys who had come down below, and ran away from the kingdom in a fit of revenge...or at least, that's what the rumors spoke of. He sat down next to him, and Arthur tilted his head at him before nodding. "That's me. Arthur Gancelot! Knight to his majesty and princess Visco." Arthur said with a smile. He was always proud of his status. He worked pretty hard for it after all. One of the youngest too, if he said so himself. He still had Visco's hand right over where his heart would be, hiding within his armor. "Preparations are...fine. My sword is sharpened and my shield reinforced. I've been briefed by the possible things I might encounter fighting against Feys...in all honesty, it's pretty scary. It's like anything is possible!" Arthur said, before gasping at his own words and chuckling. "Sorry! I tend to babble on a lot...especially when I'm nervous, haha." Arthur said, gripping his fists tightly. "This war is important. Our world is dying, and lord Raiden as risked all for the sake of an alliance with our world...I'm so grateful yet so scared I'll disappoint." Arthur glanced over at Henry, taking a look at his armor. "Dreadnaught...you are amazing. Even before you were gifted your powers many of us looked up to you as an example to follow back at the academy." Arthur said cheerfully.

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-Eclaire, Kilkis Seres-

 

The woman had gotten up far earlier than needed and done everything she could to finish before Shiva awoke. She knew it was a futile gesture, but the woman knew that Shiva was alone. Her son denounced her, her kingdom at war. She could only imagine what the Queen felt...she could only imagine.

The fleet prepared, she briskly headed back...then allowed her impatience to reign. She flashed away, leaving not even evidence she had been there. Already she was in the upper hallway, heading for Shiva. But she was already ready, battleborn and flanked by Maxis. Eclaire waited as she approached...but stood in her way. She looked at her, knowing emotions would compromise this war...would compromise her. She took a breath.

"My Queen. We are ready."

 

-Takao, Xion, and the Order-

 

Above Kilkis Seres was Hunter, the Floating City of the Icarus. Within the Hall of Light was two new thrones: The Cardinal Thrones were already taken, the Archbishop Throne now not the only one - beside the Throne of the Valkyrie was now Xion and Takao, flanking Shar'aia. The Regent of Mare Luxerion grasped her divine spear, Lux Paradisum. She looked troubled. The Convocation had come together. The war had sparked, and now the Angelic Cities had enacted isolationism. But to the Order...this was bad. Very bad.

"My father has ordered that we stay apart. But that is not what the Order was founded upon." Raz began. "We were founded on the ideals of peace and reconciliation. We chose this place, this floating city, this wandering home, to base upon - because the Order must not be tied down to domains or old wounds. My father may have chosen to not help, but it is the duty of the Angels to help." He stood. "I will not demand your help. I ask for it, and swear upon this sword - the Seraph Blade Illustrious - that there will be no ill will to those who choose to stand apart."

 

Jeremy lazily stood, summoning the massive black sword he called Oathkeeper. "Upon the Blade of the Promised Oath, the City of Hunter stands with the Order."

 

Shar'aia stood. "With what I can, I pledge. We are warrior-saviors. We come to those dying in battle, lead them to life or to a dignified death, and the afterlife. The Valkyries will fly. For it is in our flight that we prove our worth."

 

Kaliel and Maginhilde looked...nervous. "We talked. We have little help, and our parents..." Kaliel sighed. "I was forbidden. I am sorry. But I cannot help you this time, Raz. I will continue searching for the cure. But in battle, I cannot."

"I cannot help either." Maginhilde sighed quietly. "I will send what help I can."

"I understand." Raz gripped his blade. "Jeremy."
"Mm?"

"Find the Last Iron Lord."

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Jynn Venas-Kilkes Seres

 

Jynn was mounted atop Melstrome outside of the castle to the side, watching the soldiers head out. To Jynn, it was a disappointing sight. Shiva had declared war against Raiden on the account of humans. "This is all because of mother's hatred for humans. This ridiculous war proves just that, eh Mel?" The gelding nickers in agreement. Jynn's role in this war was simple; guard the Queen at all costs, and to lead the army should something happen to her. This task scares him, despite the fact that he and Shiva had a heated disagreement a few weeks back. He will forever distrust her, but he still loves her. Plus, he doesn't feel ready to take her place yet.

 

Jynn notices Helios transforming from a bird back to his self. Poor kid. He just returned from torture and now he is at war. I should say something. Jynn guides Mel towards Helios. "Hey Helios, you sure you want to join this fight?"

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- Helios - Kilkis Seres - Preparing for War -

Helios looked up as Jynn spoke to him. "Jynn." Helios smiled, walking down the stairs to greet him and Gel. "I thank you for your concern, Jynn. But I'll be alright." Helios said as he softly petted Gel. "Your mother gave me another chance. A second chance of being here, and being in this world I call home. How can I not fight with her when she has made such an exception for me when all others have suffered such terrible fates?" Helios asked, smiling. He then slowly frowned. "I do not agree with this war. The world below is dying. I know your mother has assured me that it will not be until my humans friends are long gone, generations ahead. But...I worry of those who will suffer from the consequences when their time comes. Every life is precious, no matter how small. That is why we hunt for food and use everything that the animal has to offer, and why when an animal is done eating its prey, the carrion swoop down and eat what remains, and after that, people collect the bones to create tools to use. I can't possibly have the best of both worlds. That is impossible. But...can't we at least try? There is always bad, but there is also good to counter it." Helios hummed, by this point softly petting Gel's head, stroking it gently with a small smile. "I will warn you in advance, Jynn. I will not aim to kill. My priority will be to scare and debilitate, make them unable to fight any longer while they still breathe. I will not become a senseless killer. I believe that humanity and feyhood should work together. I simply ended up on the wrong side of the board." Helios said, smiling softly at Jynn. "I was given a second chance. So I'm ready to make it right, so that their deaths...so that Ariana's death may have not been in vain."

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- Henry - Raiden's villa - Preparations for battle -

 

 

Henry couldn't help but chuckle as Arthur spoke his mind, the boy was one to talk, and ramble, that much was obvious to Henry, as he simply messed with his gauntlets as Arthur spoke. "I see, Gancelot is a nice name." Henry commented casualy. And a small eyebrow was raised as Arthur especificaly mentioned Visco, the King's daughter. As he kept a casual smile on his face.

 

Henry's expression turned into a frown as Arthur began talking about his weapons and complimenting him. The worst part, was that it was true, even before the experiments Henry was one of the most respected and Renowed Royal knights of Sondon, one helluva goal for someone who was simply a farm hand as a kid.

 

"So you've heard, huh?" Henry shrugged, "A humble Farm boy who battled his way to the top, and became a royal knight with honors fiting of veterans....all of it is true too. Don't let anyone tell you otherwise." Henry continued, "But then I ran away." As Henry finished his sentence he ripped off his left gauntlet, as his left arm's skin began to show, it was twisted and hardy, almost like pure stone. "It was no gift." Henry spoke as he motioned his arm so Arthur could see it, His arm was cracked, but at the same time stronger than the hardest metal. 

 

"I just want to make one thing clear Arthur, I didn't leave because I felt like it after the powers, Not because the experiment killed nine out of ten men, leaving only me as the survivor.  I left because I could not stand to be used as a tool of war, to massacre others...which was my first assignments after the experiments." Henry explained. part of his story.

"I joined the sondonian army to protect, not slaughter. But I ended up doing the dirty work." Henry finished. As he put his armor gauntlet back on to hide his arm. "I helped the fey escape Sondon, because I could not stand him being tortured, and I could not stand more tools of war like that to me to be made." Henry spoke with clear regret and disgust in his voice.

 

"And here I am, about to march alongside the army I betrayed, to save my world" Henry commented as his tone got back to normal. "One last question Arthur, what do you fight for? Justice? Peace? Love?" Henry smirked at the last word.

 

 

 

 

'I cannot believe you...'

'Hm?'

"I can't believe you let her live!'

'Midnea?'

'YES! The woman who ruined both our lives!'

'The Fallen witch of the Overworld'.

'You even agree with me she deserves death, yet you put your foot down and didn't go through with it when the time was right'

'What, when I kicked open Raiden's door and demanded an audience?'

'Crude but effective entry aside, yes.'

'If I killed her we wouldn't be having this war, we'd have already lost.'

'You do not know that.'

'Listen Ariana, while Alderon continues to be the clueless little chick he is with Midnea around, nothing will change, and she will remain in his protection.'

'Hmph...maybe in the middle of battle?'

'Don't get any ideas.'

'Dammit...At least we have a cause to fight.'

'Yes.'

 

 

 

Edited by Scrapmaster

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- Alastor - The Storm - Precipice of War at Raiden's Villa - 

 

Alastor couldn't stop pacing around, he couldn't stop. he wasn't worried, or anxious, he was in pure excitement at the thought of war, war was in his blood, ever since his childhood he was taught to fight, and taught to love fighting, And as such, sitting on his ass was a no-go, He still hadn't received official orders from Raiden yet. 

 

And that was what he was about to do...He walked up to the door leading to Raiden's study, and slowly opened it. As to not interrupt whatever Raiden was doing. 

 

"Raiden, I wish to talk with you." Alastor spoke, serious as always.

 

 

 

- Raiden, within his study at Raiden's Villa -

 

Within the gloom of the dimly lit study sat Raiden, a greatsword as long as he was perched upon his knee and his chair facing the entrance rather than the fireplace in the back.  His eyes opened, his neck craned up from a drawn cowl, and the shadowy form of a golden circlet could be seen beneath.  Raiden was seemingly deep in meditation, and not the good kind at that.

 

"Alastor?  My friend, it is good that you came.  I would welcome the company, or even a walk through the hall if you are up to the task.  I need to leave this place more often.  Currently it feels like a tomb, a mausoleum which will take both me and all of this knowledge," the man voiced despondently, rising from his seat and attaching the weapon onto a strap on his back.

 

From its makeshift sheath it shortened and condensed, making the weight a little bit easier to manage, and stepping into the light revealed that the Lord of Mystras was decorated in battle attire.  His pomegranate robe was exchanged for the lightweight breastplate of a battlemage and a hakama, and sturdy sandals clothed his feet.  Beyond that, tight cuffs of gold and oddly shining gems were strapped to his upper wrists, perfectly positioned to allow freedom of movement for the tendons of his hands.

 

"Shall we walk?" he voiced further, taking some additional steps toward Alastor with a wan smile.

 

 

 

 

- Rabiyu, Sifrei, Aurion and Aura - Lord Raiden's Villa -

It had been a few weeks and the seasons were changing already, the wind was getting colder in the mornings, even then the sun was out. There was noise coming from the courtyard of Raiden's villa, which was now normal, even at early hours. The source of the noise was a practice match between two human siblings and one elvish girl. The battle was very one sided, the siblings giving their all to defeat the elf, it was still hard, but now it was easier to fight against the fey for them.
"Keep going, this is your last training session, make it worth it," Rabiyu said to Aura and Aurion, "You made your choice, now you have to see where it leads."
The Siblings ran towards the elf and both swinged their swords upwards, sending Rabiyu's daggers flying, and the elf girl pinned against a tree.
"Is that enough, lady?" Aura said to Rabiyu, "are you happy? we have you and you have no place to run. We won."
Rabiyu blinked and her whole body was covered in mist, said mist then moved pass the siblings.
"Aura! You need to stop taunting fate!" Aurion said to his sister as he turned around quickly, "They possess abilities that we don't!"
The older siblings the threw his sword towards were the mist was gathering. Rabiyu was whole once again, and barely managed to dodge the sword, she then raised one of her hands.
"Enough. You did well, considering that you were fighting against an opponent who can use magic," she said to the siblings, "Remember that and you will be fine on the battlefield."
Sifrei was watching from the side at the training session, slightly impressed that the humans managed to keep up, even if Eliltari wasn't using the full extent of her abilities.
"Good job, friends, you have grow in the weeks that you have spent here," he said with a smile, "Just keep focused and never lose sight of your objective."
The Archangel kept looking at the siblings and Rabiyu, thinking about what the future held in store for everyone, that was until he felt the presence of another angelic being moving closer to the villa, Rabiyu felt that as well.
"I thought the Heavenly host was not going to be part of the battle, Sifrei," she said to the Archangel, "and yet there is a presence of an angel, another besides you."
"I do not know how to asnwer that, Eliltari," he answered, "but I think we will find out soon enough."

 

 

 

- Rufus Contralto and Raleigh Marin, observing the training from afar and trying out archery again -

 

The djinni, needless to say, was very impressed with how his mistress and her trainees handled each other's style of fighting, each highly inventive and using advanced moves in order to defeat the other.  He "sat" on his perch on top of a building in order to spectate, mimicking what he would do if he were tangible, and swayed his legs here and there in enjoyment.  Rabiyu trained them very well, and it was only a matter of time before they could use all of their learned skills in full on real people.  That brought him a bit of sadness.  He was fond of people as a whole, and was loath to violence unless violence needed to occur.

 

Raleigh, on the other hand, eyed the three with glittering interest and little more, though she too had to be impressed with the swiftness those two had honed their skills.  They could potentially make great combatants and sparring partners for her, but now was not the time for a spar.  Instead, it was time to strengthen her own set of skills.

 

Now that the coast was clear of flying projectiles, she picked up her newfound bow, tested the string's tightness, and saddled her quiver.  In the distance was a small set of targets, set twenty-five, fifty, and seventy-five paces apart that reached all the way to the other end of the courtyard.  She took aim and fired, three arrows for each target.

 

Only a few of the nocked arrows met their desired goal, the red bullseyes punctured deeply with wooden tips.  This was not a normal bow by any means, but had wind magic aiding everything sent from the string.  The launch speed was double that a regular arrow and a regular bow of equal size.  This was wonderful, but the only thing she could comment negatively about was the musical hum from the string after firing.  It was far too loud, and was not right for an assassin to wield, but if she had to be on the battlefield she supposed she had to adapt.

 

Raleigh felt rather pleased with herself even still, though.  It had been a long time, almost fifteen years or so, when she last picked up a bow of this size and range.  Thoughts trickled back to her regarding her past, when her well-to-do father attempted to teach her the Marin way of the bow.  She was said to be a natural, but in reality she knew it was not the case.  She was too small at the time, and her arms were unpractised and frail.  Now, however, she was more than strong enough.  Years of adventuring paid off and built white and red muscle aplenty.  All she needed was better aim and more practice.

Edited by Vaude

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- Rabiyu, Sifrei, Aurion and Aura - Raiden's Villa -

Sifrei was looking towards the entrance of the villa, waiting for the angelic presence to arrive. Rabiyu on the other hand was explaining the siblings about their new sets of armor and weapons.
"Alright, I made these myself over the course of these past few weeks," she said calmly, "Aurion, I made your armor from scales of a black dragon. This individual was...not so happy about it, but he lost a bet and I asked for some of his scales."
The Archangel turned around to look at the high elf and sighed.
"Did you really took Umbrasyl's scales?" He said while smiling slightly, "Must have been quite the bet."
Rabiyu shrugged at Sifrei's comment and once again focused on Aurion.
"As I was saying, the armor is very strong, it will protect you from a lot of damage from physical and magical weapons weapons, close and long range alike." she said, "It can also nullify certain kinds of magic spells, or help to reduce the damage. The sword was something my Queen once gave to a king in the human world many ages ago, before taking it back before her death. It is a divine sword capable of unleashing a powerful blast of divine magic, you just need to focus. The sheath also offers a certain regeneration ability to the wielder, but do not be reckless, you are still mortal and can easily die."
Aurion looked at his new sword and slowly nodded. Who knew that the fey could create such beautiful, yet powerful weapons. Aura on the other side was tapping her foot on the ground, her arms crossed.
"Your armor is of a different kind, it is made from a metal known as mithril, but the chainmail I gave to you was made from the scales of a dragon, a green one," Rabiyu said to Aura, "Besides the obvious protection it will allow you to infuse your sword with a powerful paralyzing spell, making your opponent unable to move, same to the small dagger I gave to you for emergencies."
Aura nodded at Rabiyu and sighed.
"It is beyond me how you people can make such weapons and think are normal," she said, "a single one of these weapons could help a human conquer a kingdom all my themselves. Let us hope we do not have to use them once the war is over."
Sifrei looked at the siblings and smiled.
"I agree. War brings nothing but suffering to everyone involved," he said with a hint of sadness in his voice, "but there is always hope, no matter what."
Rabiyu took the moment to look at the djinni who recently came back to her, if luck was on his side then perhaps his freedom would be something possible to obtain before the war was over, freedom that was resting on Raiden's hands now. Rabiyu had no need for a wish, well, maybe to have her memories back, but something in the back of her mind told her that the moment was yet to arrive. She sometimes had dreams about her Book of Memories, something in the darkness urged her to open it, to learn of her forgotten deeds, to unleash whatever was behind the wall of her mind. She would wake up in a cold sweat each time for reasons unknown.

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- Arthur - Lord Raiden's Villa - Preparing for war -

Arthur smiled. "My dad used to be a knight before me. But...he was dishonored ungracefully after becoming addicted to alcohol. I don't know what he did, but it earned him expulsion and all of his rights as a knight were taken away. I became a knight in hope of becoming better than him." Arthur hummed. Then Henry showed him his arm. Arthur's eyes widened as he saw Henry's skin. It looked beyond painful, causing him to gasp and flinch at the sight. Arthur reached a hand to touch it, but quickly drew it back. Arthur listened closely, and listened carefully, certain words standing out. Experiment. Tortured. Massacre. Part of Arthur quickly wanted to block all of these negative things out of his mind. But...he forced himself to take in every word instead. He couldn't be so ignorant no longer. Especially now at the face of war. When Henry asked him what he fought for, Arthur slightly blushed at the love part, but quickly thought of the true meaning of him fighting. "I'm fighting for...my home." Arthur began. "The world of ours is dying. Every day we lack more sources and people go hungry and we are forced to do atrocities for the sake of staying alive. I fight in hope that there is something out there that I can do for the sake of the world. If I have to die fighting for the sake of saving lives from starvation. This world is so plentiful! I want to respect their wishes but...they can't possibly be so selfish. I understand their fear...but if we do not fight we will be burying our own graves." Arthur said, sadness in his tone. He looked at Henry. "I'm...sorry what happened to you, Henry. I'm sorry that you went what you went through and those like you, and even the Fey. But the situation has been so dire. The King must have been desperate to come up with a solution of...anything that could help the kingdom. And to cure princess Visco as well, who ages much faster than she should be, and will most likely die before the king himself unless she is cured...I don't think what our king did was right. But I do not condemn it either."

Edited by Stardustblade358

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Neena ~ The Zealot ~ Mystras, Camp

 

Things escalated so quickly. So, so quickly. They were all here now. The battle was looming. Humans lurked below. She perched on a rooftop, not invisible, but not noticed. She had seen the grotesque things that evil king and his witch had created, the humans that had powers like fey. Abominations, created from the blood of her friends. Helios and Ariana. Ren was down there in the camp, working to firetrucking defend these people? Did he know? Did he understand? Probably not. But she didn't dare try to talk to him. Not and risk getting caught or something. No, the battle was coming, and she would be able to wreak havoc once it did. She had been waiting for chaos, and there is no greater chaos than battle. Neena stood, and vanished into a dark portal.

 

Gel ~ The Farmer ~ Mystras, Camp

 

Gel sat, watching soldiers go by, preparing. He had little preparation to do. Little training. Little could make him an admirable soldier. But he was admirable in other ways. Or, he was supposed to be. He had his hammer, sitting on the ground nearby. He could grow to amazing sizes, he could heal from wounds. He could heal others even. But... the enemies they fought were Fey, who could do just as many amazing things, hell, more amazing things! What was Gelabrous to do. But he couldn't back down, could he? After all, he was fighting for more than himself. As he understood it, he was fighting for all of humanity. Though, Alderon being nearby put him on edge, the pain he'd experienced never quite vanishing from his psyche. He hated fighting beside the king and kingdom who had put him through that. But again. Humanity. Gel breathed deeply. He could do this.

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{Mariel: Mystras}

Walking with purpose, Agatha entered Mystras proper, heading for Lord Raiden's Villa. She knew from experience that a determined person carrying a courier bag weren't bother too much by most guards. Once she got into more sensitive locations, she would need a stronger disguise then that. It was times like this she wished she was blessed with the rare Guardian Angel trait of natural invisibility, or still possessed robes enchanted with such a spell. But she still had some tricks she could try.

As she marched through the city, Agatha slowed to a halt as the presence of another angel filled her mind. It had been so long since she had felt one of her angelic peers, it was hard to focus on the other presences around her. Perhaps it was another Guardian Angel, like her?

"No." She decided. "The aura feels more like an Arch."

This made Agatha hesitant. One of her own breathen, she might have a chance to explain herself and be understood. But she doubted an Archangel would easily understand why she and the other Guardian Angels of the 3rd, 7th, and 12th Legions broke from sacred doctrine. She would have to face up to the angelic hosts for her actions at some point, but she would rather it be after the current crisis was over.

"Of course the presence is coming from the villa." Agatha thought irritably as she set back out in her determined march. "I'll just have to avoid him or her while I look for this Lord Raiden."

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--Queen Shiva-- Kilkis Seres Palace--

 

"Oh, Maxis." She turned to glance over at him, long braid following her movement.  Her hand fidgeted along the hilt of her sword, clearly uncomfortable by the somberness held between them.  What could she say?  "Oh, it's fine," when it was a complete and utter lie?  That she was NOT falling apart at the seams, or that her heart didn't truly residing on the other side of the battlefield?  Instead she offered him a bitter smile.

 

"That suit of armor is new, isn't it?  Did Ivany select it for you?  It's quite flashy; I like it."

 

Evasive, yet light.  Shiva continued down the hall with Maxis in tow, until they came upon Eclaire.  Was it just her, or were these two going above and beyond to make her feel that she wasn't alone?  Regardless, she couldn't complain, and instead was rather grateful.

 

"We are ready."

 

The words that she dreaded to hear, because she knew what they meant.  Life would be lost, blood spilled onto the battlefields.  While they were determined to carry the war far from home, it were still possible for harm to befall the civilians.  This castle may not even remain standing by the time that they returned.

 

If they returned.  And if was a big word.

 

Shiva nodded solemnly, gaze unable to meet the retainer's.  "Very well.  It is time.  Let us begin our march south."

 

Within an instant she snatched both Maxis' and Eclaire's hand, bringing them to frosty cheeks.  "Thank you both, for standing by me.  I want you to know that I wouldn't have the strength to get through any of this if--if it weren't for you."

 

--Yevgeni Malachite -- Kilkis Seres Courtyard--

 

The cold sun gleamed, reflecting against Yev's sapphire apparel, his cloak bearing the Kilkis Seres symbol.  He didn't think that he'd be marching under the kingdom's banner ever again after dismissed by Shiva, but somehow he'd once again been invited into the ranks.  While rejection was on the tip of his tongue, he thought it was in his best interests to stay rooted.  This was the best position to be in, after all, if he wanted to ensure that events took the path in which they were supposed to.

 

He stole a glance around him, where a handful of the most powerful mages within Kilkis Seres stood, Aqua being among them.  They would take up the rear, using their magic to lend support and to hopefully push the Mystran army back as much as possible.  Yev hoped for as little bloodshed as possible, though he couldn't say that wish was shared by many of their troops, and perhaps none of Raiden's.

 

"Remember our briefing," Yevgeni said, voice soft yet loud enough for the six mages to hear.  "Play to your strengths.  Do not attempt to engage any of Raiden's men in hand-to-hand combat.  I can assure you that you will fail, and you will die if you do so.  Keep your distance, that is key.  Also remember that much of what we know supports that the majority of Raiden's army produces lightning-based attacks.  You could use this to your advantage with well-timed water elemental magic.

 

"If you need a medic, get to one immediately.  You won't be doing anyone any favors by playing hero and dying when you could've been saved."

 

Yevgeni glanced briefly over to Aqua.  He was impressed by how far she had come in such a short amount of time, and how well she had adapted to her own magical energy.  Never had he had a pupil possess the magical talent as her, nor the kind demeanor . . . .  That smile that sent warmth up his spine, or a conversation that he felt animated and energetic to partake in.  They discussed the stars, Yev outlining the constellations for Aqua and telling her folklore on what they all meant.  Their journey to Mystras and back had been a rather enjoyable with one, which both irritated and sent a strange sensation coursing through the blond elf.

 

Upon noticing the arrival of the queen, Maxis, and Eclaire, Yevgeni clapped his hands together.  "We must move.  May good fortune smile upon you on this day, and whatever gods or goddesses that you believe in."

 

He was never good with pep talk.

 

--Elia Cabret -- Kilkis Seres courtyard--

 

The raven-haired fairy skipped over to Morana's side, bow and arrows slung over her shoulder.  She wore a simple white dress with royal-blue markings, the uniform of a medic.

 

"Morana!  You're here!" she cheered, grabbing the wendigo's hands and swinging them around playfully.  "I'm so glad that at least some of my friends have stayed.  I'm so sad that Rufus has left."  Her thoughts also jumped to Aqua, but she cast them aside for now.

 

"I also haven't seen Typhon or Jari anywhere, have you?  I thought they may stay and fight.  Typhon would definitely prove helpful, and that would probably earn him a full pardon if he stuck around and helped us.  Don't you think?"

 

Elia was practically speaking a million miles per minute, bouncing with so much energy.  While she didn't like the idea of death, she was excited to partake in her first true battle, even if she were only a medic this time.

 

--Everyth Castanova -- Raiden's courtyard--

 

"I wish that I could get some armor like that."  Striding out into the courtyard was Everyth, the witch from the world below brought with the troops that Alderon and Raiden brought up.  She brushed her raven hair over shoulder, giving the twins a twisted smile.  "I never thought that I would see the two of you again.  It's been, what, months since you broke that fey out of the Sondonian prisons?  At the very least I never thought we would be working together, but fate is a funny thing."

 

Everyth brought her gaze up to the sky, violet eyes watching as a peaceful cloud drifted over them.  The world up here was beautiful; it seemed like such a waste for war to be broken.  She also felt partly guilty, the humans being the prime source for war on the Overworld's soil.  Had they not ventured here, the Overworld could've continued their lives in peace.

 

She strolled up to Aura, reaching for her palm and placing what seemed like a broken stopwatch within it.

 

"Think of this as a peace offering, plus us girls need to look out for each other," she said, winking.  "It's a relic that will stop time, if only briefly.  It will only work once, so make sure that you use it sparingly."

 

--Ren Mordecai -- Raiden's Study--

 

In another portion of the study, separate from Raiden and Alastor, sat the former scholar from Kilkis Seres, pouring over a map.  His red hair looked aflame in the sunlight poured forth from the window, his battle armor hugging his form closely.  He'd gained some weight over the past few weeks, looking healthier and more like his old self prior to his imprisonment.  His eyes were no longer sunken, nor his cheeks gaunt, and the muscles along his arms and chest were much denser than they had previously been.  Workouts with Soren had been paying off, it seemed.

 

He rubbed an eye, taking a sip from a tin glass.  He was trying to get a grasp of battle formations before they set out to war, and to discern where the queen would most likely be positioned.  If he could get to her first, diving past troops and formations, then the battle would end quickly, and his revenge would be granted.

 

(Kunivas, this might be a good place to insert Soren, if you'd like. :))

 

(Still have Curvis and the king to post for, but I'll do that a bit later)

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- Rabiyu, Sifrei, Aurion and Aura - Raiden's Villa -

"I agree. Who would have thought that we were going to be working together after our first meeting," Aura said while looking at the broken stopwatch, "but such is fate. Thanks, by the way."
Aurion looked between the two women, he had to admit that it was strange that they were working together now, but who was he to disagree, not him, not while the fate of the their world was at stake.
"I apologize, Miss Everyth, but I barely manage to create those two sets of armor with the time we were given," Rabiyu said while bowing slightly, "Perhaps in the future I could make something for you. Not the same as theirs, since I do not possess either black or green dragon scales anymore, and obtaining more would be...complicated, but I am sure I can craft something strong enough."
Sifrei was watching the young witch, after everything that happened in the fight with the Punisher she still decided to come and fight. Such an interesting individual.
"I would like to say, once again, that I am glad that you are alright, Miss Everyth," Sifrei said to the witch, "After everything that happened with the stray fey in your world, and the attempt at the Princess's life, I am glad to see that you are doing well, considering the circumstances. Me and my partner have a hint on who may have been the one who ordered such an attack, but we will continue our investigation at a later date."
Rabiyu looked at Sifrei before looking at Everyth, her face completely calm.
"Dare I ask, how is the Princess doing after such thing happened to her?" she asked Everyth, "For someone so young to experience something like that, it must have been a scarring experience."
The Archangel was looking at the entrance of the villa from time to time, the presence was getting closer and closer, and yet he could not identify who it belonged to.

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--Queen Shiva-- Kilkis Seres Palace--

 

"Oh, Maxis." She turned to glance over at him, long braid following her movement.  Her hand fidgeted along the hilt of her sword, clearly uncomfortable by the somberness held between them.  What could she say?  "Oh, it's fine," when it was a complete and utter lie?  That she was NOT falling apart at the seams, or that her heart didn't truly residing on the other side of the battlefield?  Instead she offered him a bitter smile.

 

"That suit of armor is new, isn't it?  Did Ivany select it for you?  It's quite flashy; I like it."

 

Evasive, yet light.  Shiva continued down the hall with Maxis in tow, until they came upon Eclaire.  Was it just her, or were these two going above and beyond to make her feel that she wasn't alone?  Regardless, she couldn't complain, and instead was rather grateful.

 

"We are ready."

 

The words that she dreaded to hear, because she knew what they meant.  Life would be lost, blood spilled onto the battlefields.  While they were determined to carry the war far from home, it were still possible for harm to befall the civilians.  This castle may not even remain standing by the time that they returned.

 

If they returned.  And if was a big word.

 

Shiva nodded solemnly, gaze unable to meet the retainer's.  "Very well.  It is time.  Let us begin our march south."

 

Within an instant she snatched both Maxis' and Eclaire's hand, bringing them to frosty cheeks.  "Thank you both, for standing by me.  I want you to know that I wouldn't have the strength to get through any of this if--if it weren't for you."

 

--Ren Mordecai -- Raiden's Study--

 

In another portion of the study, separate from Raiden and Alastor, sat the former scholar from Kilkis Seres, pouring over a map.  His red hair looked aflame in the sunlight poured forth from the window, his battle armor hugging his form closely.  He'd gained some weight over the past few weeks, looking healthier and more like his old self prior to his imprisonment.  His eyes were no longer sunken, nor his cheeks gaunt, and the muscles along his arms and chest were much denser than they had previously been.  Workouts with Soren had been paying off, it seemed.

 

He rubbed an eye, taking a sip from a tin glass.  He was trying to get a grasp of battle formations before they set out to war, and to discern where the queen would most likely be positioned.  If he could get to her first, diving past troops and formations, then the battle would end quickly, and his revenge would be granted.

 

(Kunivas, this might be a good place to insert Soren, if you'd like. :))

 

(Still have Curvis and the king to post for, but I'll do that a bit later)

 

 

 

- Soren Monroe, Former Sentinel of Isopolis, now Enforcer of Mystras - Raiden's Villa: Preparing for War -

 

While others were gathered and preparing themselves for the battle ahead together, Soren Monroe was on his way to Lord Raiden's study, all the while musing on what they were about to do and how it had all come to this. The scrunched up form of Soren's expression indicated deep thought as the Fey seemed desperate to figure out just how this lead to war.

 

"War...between Man and Fey...it's as if history delights in repeating itself. Now, Man allies with Fey to fight other Fey, as if that makes it all better, it's still just so..."

 

On the outside, Soren couldn't help but sigh deeply as he shook his head.

 

"With Queen Shiva in the equation, it almost seems...inevitable. Her lies are abhorrent, her treatment of Ren...unacceptable. Raiden might think otherwise when the time comes...yet..."

 

Soren then looked straight ahead, his eyes narrowed and sharp as he huffed.

 

"We've no choice. She'll never back down from her father's principles...we have to kill her. Even if we don't, I can't help but feel she is doomed. I've never hated her...never wanted her head cleft from her shoulders..."

 

"...until now."

 

Soren's expression was somehow a mixture of rage...and solemnity. He was enraged at Shiva, but at the same time saddened. What was more prevalent? He couldn't say for sure. Well...perhaps, uncertainty, reigned supreme still.

 

Coming to the door to Raiden's Study, Soren shook the thoughts from his head and opened it up, now he bore a soft smile upon seeing his old friend: Ren Mordecai, healthier than ever thanks to his efforts and training. His stride towards Ren now seeming more steadfast and maybe even a little skip in his step again, Soren patted him on the back as greeting.

 

"Good to see you, Ren. Even on this troubling day. How do you feel?" Soren spoke, seemingly beaming at first, the toning down to a more serious tone as he posed his simple question.

 

 

- Meksis, Armour of Light - Kilkis Seres: Preparing for War -

 

After a short session, with himself, to ensure he was still combat-ready, Meksis headed off to where he'd hoped Shiva and Maxis would be. Warriors who were late to a battle were some of the worst, although Maxis has been late in the past yet he still crushed a few bones...or a few hundred, he lost count. Chuckling to himself at the thought, he caressed the back of his neck again as he approached a door. Ivany's help and advice was welcome, yet still it persisted. Was she wrong thinking it was nothing serious? Meksis would never tell Maxis she was wrong as he valued his head, but it is beginning to drive him up the wall...especially as it felt just so...wrong.

 

He didn't gaze at them directly at first, but when Meksis entered the area in which Shiva, Maxis and Shiva's Retainer resided, he was pleased and began speaking.

 

"Ahh, good to see you, my friend! Your highness and her honourable retainer. Honestly, I wish it were at better times, this war weighs heavily on our shoulders. Though something else that weighs on me is this darned creak in my neck! It's still there and it's worse than ever, argh." Cracking his neck, as much as a suit of armour could, Meksis continued.

 

"Ivany's words were welcome and helpful, but I'd be damned if I said I felt better. Though since that prison break from...Isotope? Isopole? Isopolis! Ahh! And this war, my neck is the least concerning in our reperto--" Meksis's eyes met with the sight of Shiva holding Maxis's cold gauntlet and Eclaire's warm palm to both of her cheeks. A warming sight to his soul, he would admit, but at the same time, he felt rude and awkward.

 

"Oh! Am I interrupting? My sincerest apologies, your highness. S-Should I return later?" He clenched his fist that was previously upon his neck and gestured awkwardly aside, feeling bad for ruining this moment.

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- Morana - Kilkis Seres - Preparing for war -

Morana smiled as Elia skipped over to her. "Yeah. I haven't seen the others either. I really don't blame them if they want to avoid the war all together." Morana said as she looked around. "It's been a very long while since there was a war. There had been tensions but now it's the real thing. I don't think anyone feels prepared. At all." Morana said as she crossed her arms. "To be honest I find it...kind of dumb. The humans don't even have powers or technology or magic like us. To see them as a threat is kind of silly...then again it could just be me underestimating something I've never met." Morana chuckled. "But...we have to trust the queen and her judgement. She must know much more than all of us strung together." Morana hummed, looking up at the sky. It was sad that such a beautiful day would end up holding such possible bloodshed. She couldn't brush off Elia's excitement, smiling at her. "What about you? What are your thoughts on the whole thing? You know, with the humans and all involved?"

 

- Arthur - Lord Raiden's Villa - Flashback -

 

 

Arthur stepped into the building, knocking on the wooden door. "Hello? Is the Blacksmith here?" Arthur asked. The heat inside the place was almost unbearable, but no less to be expected from a smith's shop. The working smith, a Fey with horns on his head, paused his work on a current weapon to signal him inside. "Come right in." He said. Arthur nodded, walking to step closer. "You're one of those humans, right?" "Yes! I was suggested to bring my weapons to you since...well, our weapons are not built to fight against Feys." Arthur hummed. "Let me see. Give them to me." The smith said. Arthur proceeded to hand over his sword and his shield. The smith took a good look at them, narrowing his eyes. "It's good craftsmanship, but you're correct. Against what is to be expected from the Queen's army, you wouldn't last five minutes in. They would give in right away." The smith said. Arthur nodded. "I see...is there any way you could, how do you call it, enchant it, to make it usable?" Arthur asked. "Sure. Any specific effects you would like?" The smith asked. Arthur was at a loss for a few seconds. "I really do not know. I've never even thought about it...hell, I don't even know what's possible. I'm sorry..." Arthur muttered, shuffling his feet. The smith hummed. "Alright. Here, show me a few of your moves." "Huh?" "Show me some shadow fighting. To see your fighting style." "Oh!" Arthur quickly took his sword, taking a few steps back. He walked over to a nearby mannequin, got into his pose, and began to do basic training against the mannequin as the smith watched. He watched for a few minutes before calling Arthur back over. "I think I know just what you need." The smith said as he took Arthur's sword. "Really?" "Your movements are fluid and quick, they aren't brute or too light. This metal needs some reinforcement too. I think I know just the thing." The smith said as he walked back, searching among the many boxes her had, pulling out two stones to show him. One was yellow, pulsing with power, the other was as red as blood. "What are these?" "A lighting stone, and a blood gem. The lightning stone will allow you to create lightning from your blade. The blood gem should make your blade sharper and stronger than its current state." "Amazing." "For your shield, I am going to use a crystal gem for extra strength. Does that sound good to you?" "Y-Yes! It sounds amazing! I don't know how to thank you!" "Nonsense." The smith insisted, getting his goggles on. "You can stay and watch if you want." Arthur took that offer, getting goggles of his own as he witnessed the smith work on his weapons. He melted the gems and dipped his weapons in them, allowing them to soak the effects up. Once they were covered he would dip them in water to solidify them around the sword, and dip them back into the melted gems, repeating the process over and over again. Once they had taken in every single drop, he proceeded to heat up the sword and reshape into its original shape, making it stronger and sharper. It took an entire day. From time to time Arthur would leave to eat something and return. By the time it was done, it was already nighttime, and the smith had to shake him awake. "Your weapons are done." "Really?!" "Yup. They just require one last thing." Arthur got to his feet, looking down at his weapons on the table. They didn't look very different. "Don't worry. We just haven't activated them yet." "Activated them?" "Fey and other creatures are more tuned to magic due to generations of working with it. They are able to activate it without any trouble. For humans, however, are not as tuned, and require more...carnal means to be able to sense it." "Like what?" The Blacksmith reached out and took out a dagger. Arthur tensed, but the blacksmith quickly waved his hand. "It's fine! Don't worry! We just need a drop of blood for each weapon. A single prick, nothing more." He assured. Arthur softly nodded, taking a step forward as he removed his glove to offer his finger. The blacksmith pricked his skin, before gesturing Arthur to drop blood on each weapon. Arthur did so, allowing two single drops of blood to fall on each weapon. He watched as they absorbed it, disappearing against the metal as they suddenly gleamed, drastically changing. The shield's emblem gleaming and transformed into a blue crystal material mixed with its already golden accents. The sword's blade gained golden designs that gleamed against the metal, looking like lightning strikes had become trapped inside of it. "Well, want to give them a try?" The Blacksmith asked. Arthur nodded eagerly, picking up his shield and sword as he gave it a few experimental swings. "I can actually summon lightning with this?" "You'll need lots of training to get used to it, but once you get the hang of it you'll be good to go." The blacksmith assured. Arthur nodded, stepping outside to practice. He could feel it. It was different. It felt as if his sword and shield were part of him, yet also of a different identity. They felt light and alive. He smiled, throwing his sword into the air. "Alright!" He yelled, only to elicit a response of nature as a single lightning stroked right into his blade, following the most terrified scream Arthur could muster as a reaction.

 

 

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- Henry - Preparing for War at Raiden's villa -

 

Henry gave a genuine smile as Arthur spoke of his reasons for fighting, and his passion to help the world below, "Don't change, that passion is going to get you far, passion is what differentiates the weak from the strong." Henry commented with a kind tone, for once. To the knight boy. 

 

"There are thousands of reasons for the situation we're in, the distrust between the queen and the humans for one, Not all are selfish, many are simply following rules and orders, much like the common soldier. Henry scoffed as Arthur spoke about the king's actions and objectives, albeit he did respect the boy's opinion. He stood silent for a few minutes. 

 

"My father had a saying, and this saying has kept to me up till now." Henry began speaking again, reminiscing about his childhood, "When faced with the choice of two great evils, its best not to choose at all." Henry spoke, plain and cleanly. "I had a choice, accept my fate and continue dutifuly serving as a tool of war, for a cause I did not believe in anymore, or renounce everything and accept death. I choose neither. I acted on my own, helped Helios escape and here we are." Henry spoke of his actions, not with a proud tone, none at all. 

 

"Since you told me your reasons for fighting...I guess its fair I say mine, I...am not fighting for Alderon, or Raiden. I don't trust either of them, but I will act, and help save the world, not because I wish to ally myself with them, but because I made a promise to someone dear to me. And I will see it through to the end." Henry spoke, pure determination in his voice, clearly an idealistic goal, but dammit, he was determined.

 

Henry then saw someonthing in the other room, where the siblings  resided in, he felt a familiar aura in there with them. As he began to get up from his seat. "Oh and by the way, if you end up near me during the fighting, stay behind me, im a good distraction." Henry spoke with a smirk as he looked at Arthur before leaving to the other room.

 

As he opened the doors to where the Siblings were in, alongside Rabiyu, that weird elf, Sifrei, whom he had no idea who he was still, and...Everyth. 'great,,,her,,,'

'friend of yours?'

'You could say that...'

 

 

"Fate is indeed funny." Henry spoke as he walked into the scene, as he looked at Everyth with a deadpan expression. "Its been a while...Everyth" Henry finished.

 

 

 

- Alastor - Raiden's villa - Preparations for War -

 

"Yes...lets" Alastor spoke, eyeing Raiden up and down, and chuckling, seeing Raiden in battle gear was very out of character and unusual for the man, whom he always saw as a scholar.

 

"Taking a last walk before the battle? I can't blame you..." Alastor commented. "Shame it came down to this. I was looking forward to a peaceful resolution...so I could have focused my efforts on locating my daughter." Alastor spoke, truthfully to Raiden with...sorrow in his tone? "But she can wait, there is a critical war we must win...you're not much of a fighter, so i'l keep close, by the way." Alastor quickly returned to battle tactis and sarcasm. Soon after. He was not one to let his guard down, even during conversations.

 

 

 

- Maxis - Kilkis Seres - Preparing for war -

 

"I made a promise, ever since you were a child, I would stay by your side, and i'l be damned if I am not here during your times of pain my little girl." Maxis spoke, with clear warmth and a fatherly caring tone in his voice for her. He worried about her greatly, he wished she would not suffer like this, if he could only take her place in suffering, he would. But he couldn't. He could only stay by her side.

 

Maxis trembled in his foundation as Shiva put touched his hand and brought it to her cheek. "I will protect you with my existence if I have to, this is not just a mere pact for me anymore Shiva. I care about you, and you know that. I will not see your life go to waste, not on this war." Maxis spoke, with clear determination on his voice, but cracking throughout nonetheless, Maxis was shaken by this, and even though he could not express much emotion physicaly, you could feel it. In his aura.

 

Maxis simply glanced at Meksis, "We're having a moment here Meksis...wait a bit." He commented, dryly.

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- Lord Raiden, currently on a walk with Alastor in Raiden's villa -

 

Raiden laughed a note at Alastor's final comment, giving Alastor a playful shove as they walked out into the hall.  He could always count on the guardian to give him a joke when he needed one, and he needed one desperately throughout all of the recent events.

 

"I'm as much of a fighter as you, though I'm better suited to challenges of the mind rather than those of physical natures.  I haven't lost my touch with the sword, but still the axiom of 'Those who live by the sword die by the sword' plagues me.  If I pick up a weapon again, I may die by another's sword before any real change can be made, and that is what made me how you saw me."  Raiden paused, his expression becoming more solemn once again.  "Your daughter . . . you haven't told me much about her, now that I recall.  When was the last time you saw her, and how do you think you will meet again?"

 

Part of this was out of concern for Alastor, but another part was because he feared how he would be reunited with Shiva's son . . . his son.  The thought of his promise to Shiva troubled him heavily.  Even if they were on opposing sides in both faction and ideology, his trust in Shiva and his veneration of her still tore at him.  Promises and truth were two concepts he valued for most of his life, and to break a promise was the equivalent of betrayal of his moral code.  What if Jynn was against him?  What if, to save himself and to bring about an era of peace, he would have to harm or even kill his own son?  Such would be a terrible, terrible cost, and Raiden hoped that the answer to his question was not as horrible as it seemed.


 

 

- Jari Coriander, bracing for what's to come after a brief imbibement of liquid courage in Kilkes Seres -

 

Being a spy for a living has certainly had its perks and its deficits, but one of its greatest benefits was getting into difficult and heavily guarded locations, one of them being Shiva's wine cellar.  He ventured in there once before with great difficulty, but the second time was easier, and the spoils of his conquest was one he greatly sought:  a rare vintage of sour wine.  He nursed this bottle over the course of a few days, a little sip here, a little swig there, and as of this moment he was halfway done with it.

 

Today, however, the taste of the sour wine was not as wonderful as other times, and that was because he was deep in retroflection.  Thoughts of his foxchild friends and family made him question whether or not he chose the right side.  Sure, he had friends in Shiva's camp, but what of the folks he once considered kin?  Would fighting Mystras mean battles in the streets he once called home?  Would he see any or all of his family dead in the end?  He paled at the idea and replaced the half-empty bottle of wine in the naturally hollowed trunk of a tree, and not long after did he find his friends Elia and Morana also talking about the war.

 

Swallowing hard, he came close to them and smiled without meaning it, hoping to fit in with the others.

 

"Hi, Elia, Morana.  Talking very long?" he voiced to both, taking the time for their response to clean his palate of the taste and aroma of wine.  The last thing he needed was to have his friends find out his little secret of the sour wine via his breath.

Edited by Vaude

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The Diplomacy -- A discussion between the lord of Mystras, the dark witch, Midnea, and the human king, shortly before war was declared between Mystras and Kilkis Seres.

 

This was written between Vaude (eggplant purple), The Unversed (bright purple), and myself (marigold), and the text is color-coded to indicate the writer.

 

 

 

As king Alderon spoke out about his adivsor Midnea having an idea to which could solve both their problems, Midnea quickly looked at her king slightly in question. Midnea had thought her king would be the one to take on this discussion & use her advice as his own but he placed the spot light on her instead, something she didn't quite expect him to do. Midnea then looked back to Raiden showing a displeased frown at him while he played with the ring on his finger, Midnea narrowed her eyes at him in annoyance before speaking to him. "... So I shall my king. Now then... Raiden. Listen to my words with much thought behind them, since this is an important discussion we're having here today that could very well lead in the wrong direction for this alliance if taken lightly. Now I will begin explaining, Raiden... you say at my king's group is only allowed to stay here for a few more hours until you send us back, & that if this human hating Queen by the name of Shiva were to find us still here, you would then be forced to send us back in fear of what she would do should you not comply with her wishes. However Raiden, did you ever think to simply have us moved to another kingdom? hidden by a handful of your own feys for both protection & covering while my king's group explore to their heart's content? Moving kingdoms will also remove us from this queen's mind, which means your kingdom won't be considered under suspicion of keeping unwanted guests within this world Raiden..." said Midnea pausing to hear what Raiden has to say about this.

 

The way Midnea spoke was certainly frustrating to Raiden, and the Mystran leader looked at her with only partially restrained suspicion and disdain.  "Listen to my words with much thought behind them . . . lead in the wrong direction for this alliance if taken lightly . . . did you ever think" -- these were some fragments that only perked him up and annoyed him further.  However, she was right in terms of the alliance, especially if Alderon was swayed in entirety by her words.  He stopped twisting his ring and raised his head high.

 

"A striking and clever idea, that is true, but the only agents I have in other lands are spies, and I have few friends besides retired individuals outside of this kingdom who would shelter fugitives from Queen Shiva.  I would trust people of my domain over others, but my hands are for the most part tied due to potential search parties and espionage.  The queen's son approached us yesterday under the guise of friendly conversation, but the next time will not be so lucky.  My supposition is that he will lead a bitter inquisition in search of you, and diplomacy with other nations will be strained unnecessarily if you are encountered in other lands' without my notifying the queen."

 

He pursed his lips in thought, raising a curled finger to his mouth.

 

"Suppose, however, you are sheltered from the storm and weather it over in the protection of a place neither the queen nor her son will ever suspect, a place of natural beauty where I housed my most secret of buildings.  There you can stay until change occurs, but there is an issue within this, or even staying here through other means.  The opening to the Overworld will be impassible due to flooding of magic through the gate in hopes of healing your world, and you will remain here for an indefinite period of time.  Your people have friends and family.  I would rather not constrain them to loneliness in an open prison, but the choice is yours, Alderon.

 

"However," Raiden continued poignantly, drawing emphasis to this one word, "I have one question before you respond:  what ambition do you harbour that made you visit the Overworld?  Was it wealth, power, or maybe long life?  Answer this honestly.  I will know if you are untruthful even by mistake, so take your time in responding."

 

Yes, this is the crux of the matter, Raiden thought to himself.  I have not had much conversation with him since yesterday, and have not fully understood his reasons for coming.  However, it must be of strong conviction.  He is a king, after all, and hence does not think weakly on matters of import. 

 

His reason?  Oh, there had been so many.  Alderon's brow furrowed into a frown, his gaze dropping to the tiled floor below them as he contemplated Raiden's question.  The problem was this: Alderon stopped being truthful to himself long ago.   How could he be certain that he were truthful with Raiden?  The decision of their alliance assuredly rested upon his single explanation, one that he could only hope would prove satisfactory.  Coming up with idle excuses like "for the good of my kingdom" would've been foolish, for his reasons ran much deeper than that.

 

"In all honesty, my lord, I have come here on a more personal level.  True, I do have concern for my world, but as our scientists predict, our world has centuries, if not a millennium, left of life.  The weight of the world's fate is not mine alone to bear, and my people will be long gone by the time our land is uninhabitable."

 

He drew in a breath, not certain how fondly Raiden would feel about his explanation, but he would pursue it nonetheless.  "The heart of my coming here lies with my dear daughter, Princess Visco.  She is but a child, though has been placed under a curse that has increased her aging rapidly.  She also has"--he hesitated, as though it pained him to state it--"dog-like features, causing the people to shun her and claim that she be burnt at the stake due to demon possession and witchcraft.  There is no way that any noble man would take her to wed, nor would a kingdom obey her in her current state should she become queen.  She is my only heir and the only thing that I have left in this world.  I am but a desperate father desirous to cure her.  If you are a father, surely you understand that desire to want only the world for your child, to be willing to do anything for them."

 

Alderon then fell silent, running a hand along his short beard.  His gaze flickered toward Midnea and back toward Raiden again.  He wasn't certain what his advisor would've thought of his reasoning, though if he were to be entirely truthful, what he laid out was precisely that.

 

As the lord of Mystras Raiden spoke his words professionally Midnea was enduring listening to him, yes spending the effort to listen to a person she truly hated was a test within itself to which showed by the fact she was still showing her displeased frown & still cupping her elbows with her hands while she listened. Then Midnea heard Raiden say something that caught her attention rather quickly. "Search parties & Espionage? Hmph, don't think I don't know what your doing Raiden..." thought Midnea as she then quickly recalls some past events & moments that she could say had such tasks taking place. "I'm well aware that I'm within your kingdom & for you to think otherwise will become a mistake you'll sorely regret... it's only a matter of time until I leave you with a little monstrous present, hehe." thought Midnea with a small grin on her face while her king had just finished speaking of his reason for being here.

 
Midnea slightly bite the side of her bottom lip a bit after hearing her king speaking about just how far he's willing to go for his dear beloved daughter, to which made Midnea feel sick to her stomach & filled with jealously since Midnea wanted to be the only one he'd be so willing for. Midnea was then hoping to hear back from Pracia soon, wanting to hear of her success on the killing of her king's little princess more than anything at this point.
 
However, Midnea need to speak up in regards to their conversation, "My king's ambitions are not just his own Raiden, surely you can see that much by now? You've heard my king's reason for being here so there will be no more talk on ambitions should it reach further into his personal matters he wish to not speak, breaching such areas is rather impolite Raiden. On another matter, so that was the son of the queen you were talking with was it?..." asked Midnea even tho she already knew of this info. "He is of no concern to us, even if he were to search us out he would first come here, looking for you Raiden, wanting answers. But the only answers you are to give would be nothing but lies, simply saying that we have returned to our world is enough to end his interrogation on you. Now then... this alternative option your giving us. I agree with it." says Midnea partly feeling annoyed to have said that right before she then looks to her king, "It allows us to shelter from the queen & the exploring of this world's nature, not to mention the discoveries we might find that could help our world... your chosen knights knew what they were getting themselves into the moment they join this journey my king, & if staying here longer then expected means being able to help your... daughter... & our world, then we should take the opportunity my king. But just as the ruler of Mystras says... the choice is yours my king..." said Midnea waiting to hear what King Alderon has to say. 
 
Lord Raiden weighed Alderon's response diligently, keeping a steady eye on the speaker with only a few moments of glancing at Midnea.  There indeed was much smattering of truth to what he said, and much conviction lay behind his motive.  A parent who would do just about anything to save his son or daughter was an admirable individual in Raiden's eyes, but he or she also was among the scariest of people.  All care would be set aside in hopes of a remedy, and little can stall them.  He felt a smile encroach his features as he observed this astounding soul, and even after Midnea's gibing words he retained the expression.

 

"You hold my sympathies as well as my impression, King Alderon," he managed to utter.  "Few out there hold such dedication, and I deem you truthful, so I will be proud to lend you an aid in not only your stay but also your search for a cure."  Raiden held out a hand and waved it around him, pointing at the many shelves of books that circled the study.  "My library boasts a considerable wealth of knowledge, trumped only by Kilkes Seres' collection, and some books within it contain knowledge of curses.  I transcribed several of them myself and have poured into the arcane of various studies and sciences, so I know how to counterbalance spells well enough, perhaps including that of your daughter.  These books, the transcriptions, and my knowledge are yours to sift through, but I will not allow anyone but yourself to touch them.

 

"As for you, milady, I am not well-versed with lies, but I am an expert in all manners of misdirection, and I do mean all manners," he commented in Midnea's direction, taunting her with a knowing wink.

 

This curse appeared to match Midnea's repertoire, but he could not voice this suspicion to Alderon, not yet.  What a hassle it was to get alone time with Alderon between Midnea and the abundant visitations Raiden himself received.

 

"I will deal with the situation soon enough, but for now I have a ship to launch, men to mobilise, a chateau to book, things to right, and a people to rule, so forgive me for drawing this to a close.  Alderon, if your decision is final in this, please confirm or elsewise deny.  Time is short and much is there for me to do with either branch of your choice."

 

It was up to Alderon to make the final decision.  Both the gaze of his advisor and Lord Raiden rested heavily upon him, the weight of which feeling nearly as burdening as the decision that were upon his shoulders.

 

"For an indefinite period of time, you say?" Alderon glanced up, hand gripping his bearded chin firmly.  "That . . . could be problematic.  You see, our countries in the world below are divided by tension, and it is difficult to say what would happen once Helvadoria discovers my disappearance.  I cannot leave my people unattended indefinitely, nor leave my daughter in charge for longer than necessary.  Isn't there any way that I can return once this cure is obtained?  Maybe in a few months?"

 

The thought of staying the remainder of his days in the Overworld sent a shiver down his spine.  True, he loved this world, but not enough to remain here while being isolated from his kingdom and Visco.  But what would he do if he returned?  Everything would go back to the way it were, with no hope of any miracles for the betterment of their world.

 

It was a loss either way.  Regardless of what Alderon chose, he would have to sacrifice something.  Staying seemed like the most favorable option, though the idea of remaining here "indefinitely" unnerved him.

 

Midnea narrowed her eyes at Raiden in much annoyance upon seeing his taunting wink. Midnea then looked to her king, "Do not fear such knowledge my king, what I believe Raiden is trying to say is, that he will be attempting to pour natural magic through the gate somehow in hopes of healing our world. But for this to be possible the gate itself would become unusable for the time being, if the gate were to become impassable indefinitely... then it wouldn't be possible for it to have been opened a second time my king." spoke Midnea trying to ease her king's mind on the thought of staying. 

 
"Raiden has now given us the acceptance of staying in this world so we may help our own... let us not waste the opportunity my king." spoke Midnea softly as she then looked back to Raiden with a somewhat calmer expression before speaking to him. "Raiden... before you leave us, allow me access to read through your library as well? You see my king will be in need of my assistance upon what he will be researching within these books of yours. If your in need of assurance on this Raiden, then my king will be able to verify this for you?" asked Midnea knowing full well her king will most likely vouch for her & allow her to read with him, since Midnea is known to magic spells & such things & can tell him a better understanding of what he is reading within the books. Should Raiden decline Midnea to read with her king will most likely raise her king to the question of why she can't to Raiden, which most likely won't lead to a good reason to decline her request. Midnea was now trying to also gain access to Raiden's many books to which house loads of information & knowledge much like her own Kingdom's library does. However the contents of Midnea's library compared to Raiden's is to a great lvl in difference to what it holds among it's shelves. Midnea went silent, waiting to hear his answer to her request.
 
Raiden was in agreement with Midnea's understanding of what he said and deigned to explain himself further.

 

"Such is true.  The gate can be opened again after a sufficient amount of magic will flow through, and then we can send you back.  This will most likely take more than a week, and in that time we can find you a cure and reunite you with your daughter."  He locked eyes on Midnea, disapproval glinting within his gaze at her request.  "However, I will limit you, madam advisor, from touching anything more than the transcriptions and extra copies.  Do not think that I did not find my journal burned in my fireplace.  Many years of jots and scribbles were in that journal, and anyone who would treat a book that poorly does not deserve to touch my most delicate and costly of tomes.  Someone will keep an eye on you, and if you damage a single page there will be consequences.  Is that clear?"

 

Raiden's voice rose to almost a pitch higher, the man getting so heated at the thought of losing his journal and perhaps other priceless books as well.  While he did not read them regularly, each book housed great worth to him and to society as a whole, filled from cover to cover with the thoughts of some of the most learned minds that the Overworld had to offer.  Raiden thought about boarding up his mantelpiece as a result, and that was a huge sacrifice, considering how much he loved staring into the fire that roared within.

 

"My lady," Alderon said, voice strangely strained.  "While your opinion is always welcomed, I feel that I can discern the contents of our friend Raiden's library without the need of a translator."  The king always took offense when he felt that his education and intelligence were being insulted.  While he accepted the help of others, he ofttimes would get snappish if others wouldn't allow him to work out a problem on his own.  It also frustrated him to the high heavens whenever someone would try to explain something to him, as though he were incapable of understanding it himself.

 

"You may, however, aid me in my search.  I would thank you, Lady Midnea, and you as well, Lord Raiden.  You have done me a great service today, and I will be in your debt for perhaps as long as I live.  Should I be able to do anything during my time here to assist you, please don't hesitate to ask.

 

"As for our stay"--the middle-aged man clasps his hands together in front of himself, index fingers steepled--"a week should be fine.  I pray that the restoration project is a success, and that our additional time here in this land will help us acquire any knowledge we may need."

 

He nodded to Midnea, as though indicating that their time here was through.  He strolled over to the door, opening it wide to grant Midnea access before himself.

 

After Midnea listened to her king quickly speaking up & saying he needn't anyone's help with understanding the contents of lord Raiden's books, Midnea slightly looked at her king, easily able to understand his reasons for saying so. However, even if her king felt his intelligence inferior, or insulted, or his kingly pride simply not allowing him to have her aid, Midnea was going to have to lend her assistance to him even if he didn't want her help with this. Cause truthfully her king wouldn't be able to understand those books in which their content involved the use & types of magic, sure King Alderon could read the text of those books just fine, but when it comes to understanding how the info of magic works it'll surely lead her king to a dead end in understanding. Thus leading King Alderon in need of Midnea's assistance in the end. Thankfully though King Alderon allowed Midnea to aid him in his search anyways, to which Midnea felt like her king already had a feeling deep down that he might indeed need her help with this task. 

 
As King Alderon strolled over to the door to exit the study Midnea looked at Raiden, Midnea had taken note by his locking gaze towards her that he didn't want her snooping about through all his books, not to mention the tone in his voice when speaking to her about his burnt journal to which Midnea showed a faint smile for. "To limit me Raiden would be to limit my king's chances of finding a cure for his daughter. I'm not sure why you would look & speak to me as though I was the one responsible for your journal being burnt, but I must say Raiden. Your coming off as very distrustful on your part with this alliance... & on many occasions might I add... " said Midnea as she narrowed her eyes at him showing a displeased frown before continuing to speak to him, "Now if I agree to handle your books with care & allow you to keep an eye me while I read through your library, then you must agree to allow trust in me with letting me read any books I choose to read?... this seems only fair in terms of trusting one another for our alliance Raiden..." says Midnea as she then walks over to the door King Alderon was holding open for her before looking back to Raiden. "I hope we have an agreement Raiden?..." asked Midnea waiting for an answer before she left with King Alderon. 
 

The lord of Mystras scoffed at the notion of Midnea asking for more than what he offered, viewing her as being in no position to make either demand or request.  Perhaps it was because the two of them were utterly at each other's throats due to their history, but he could not condone himself to let her have free reign over his entire repertoire of books, including those of which he considered private and for his and the Infiltrator's eyes only.

 

"I will allow no such action.  Trust is something earned, and you have not earned it, now . . . or before," he scorned, crossing his arms.  "Your selection of books will be approved by me through my interaction or your assistant bringing them to me before you see even a page, and I will punish any direct or indirect action of skirting this rule except by accident.  However, if you want my trust, I need proof.  Prove to me that you changed.  Then I will offer it, but for now bear with me and my lack of confidence."

 

He unfolded his arms mid-sentence and issued a true smile, one of skepticism but one of hope as well.  If there was anything he wanted as badly as peace, it was to have understanding and camaraderie even with previous enemies.

 

After Raiden finished speaking with a smile on his face Midnea just narrowed her eyes at him, showing a rather dark glare & seeming to have been agitated by what he had said to her regarding change & earning trust. "... fine then Raiden, have it your way." spoke Midnea right before she then left the study with her king closing the door behind her. The king & his advisor were then walking down the hallways while being guided to the library by an assistant to the library area itself, Midnea meanwhile was in thought as they walked along. "How dare Raiden speak to me about change after what he & Shiva condemned me to. Change currently happened to me, but... it was both you simplistic minded fools that caused me to change. Not to mention her..." thought Midnea as she & her king continued walking along in silence.

 

 

Raiden smoothed his brow, huffed a sigh, and decided to leave the study in favour of seeking out Soren.  It was about time, after all.  However, lurking within the background, cloaked within the shadow of a poorly lit corner, something else moved toward the exit.

 

So this is what is going on without my knowledge, huffed the Infiltrator, sneaking out of the room and stealing a glance about him even if he was hidden.  Raiden, I don't know if you were going to tell me all about this or not, but your actions here are not strong enough to promote change.  Working with the enemy, giving them allowances, trying to keep everything right and orderly when the world demands a violent upset, it is not possible to work.  My actions, however, will.

 

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{Mariel: Mystras; Raiden's Villa}

Agatha made it through some door guards using a bluff that she was carrying an urgent message for Lord Raiden. This held some risks, of course, but that was unavoidable at this point. She did get pointed in the direction of Raiden's study, which was helpful. She still had the angelic presence to avoid for now, and to hope the source didn't come looking for her.

"What in the hells am I doing?" She thought angrily. "This is stupid."

But she needed answers. She needed to know the humans weren't being set up for a betrayal. Setting her jaw, Agatha kept going, doing her best to keep track of the other Angel in the villa. After a false turn, she headed for Raiden's study when she saw two figures coming the other way. One she didn't recognize, but the other...

"Sorry to interrupt, your lordships." She called out to Raiden and Alastor.

She pulled off her helmet and stuck it under her arm.

"But my manners get lost when I encounter old friends." Mariel continued, starting to smile.

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Jynn Venas-Kilkes

 

While Mel was enjoying his face being stroked and massaged, Jynn was still on edge. "I understand. And I'm glad you aren't in it to kill." He paused for a moment. What was the point of this war? Was it to drive the humans out of the Overworld? Or was it Shiva wanting to show her disliking of humans? Was it something else? He sighs. "Helios, with your honest opinion, what do you think the outcome of this would be? What is the point of this war? And most importantly, what should I do if something happens to my mother? I don't feel ready to lead or rule yet." He turns his head away. "I know these are probably questions that are beyond your comprehension, but I honestly don't know what to think........." He turns back. "Not only that, me and my mother disagree on so much, we had an aggressive dispute a few weeks back. Now she probably thinks I'm a monster for wanting the two worlds to live in harmony together." He pauses yet again. Jynn was beginning to feel guilty. Is he now viewed as an enemy to his mother? He turns back to Helios. "Helios............ do you think I'm a...... bad person?"

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- Rabiyu, Sifrei, Aurion and Aura - Raiden's Villa -

 

The siblings looked between Henry and Everyth, now this was going to be very awkward for everyone, at least for the four of them. The two fey were looking at the humans, that was until Sifrei felt the presence of the Angel inside the villa.

"I think our mysterious guest has arrived," he said quietly to Rabiyu, "Excuse me for a moment."

Rabiyu put her hand on Sifrei's shoulder, her face gave the impression that she was falling asleep for a couple of seconds.

"I can give you a general description," Rabiyu said calmly, "Average height, red hair, hazel eye color, looks like a courier. Apparently thinks Lord Raiden and Master Alastor as old friends. I suppose her description is of little help, right? Angels being able to change appearance."

The Archangel slowly turned to the villa and remained silent for a few seconds.

"Not someone I know. Besides those who migrated to Exire, and my own family, I do not know many who hail from the Divine Cities, or their counterparts," Sifrei answered, "My Father was very adamant to touch that topic, and I was not interested in it, nor were my mothers or siblings. I became an Archangel to take my father's place when he disappeared, but I did not inherit his right to rule one of the cities."

The High Elf stared at the Archangel while listening, she always thought that Sifrei could rule one of the Divine Cities, but she was wrong, who knew.

"I understand," she raised her brows, a curious look on her face, " Mothers?"

Sifrei smiled and looked at Rabiyu while waving his hand.

"You didn't know? I thought...no, nevermind. My father, Bel, or Lucifer, or Helel, or another one of the many names he had, had six wives, each one representing one of the so called "deadly sins" and him representing the seventh," Sifrei said while trying not to laugh, "Lady Ashmedai of Luxuria was his first, Lady Perell of Gula was second, followed by Lady Mammon of Avaritia and Lady Fegor of Acedia, the fifth was Lady Amon of Ira, then came the youngest of all, my mother, Lady Levia of Invidia."

The Archangel looked at the sky and sighed, still keeping the smile on his face.

"We were a strange family, I suppose, but a family nonetheless. Dysfunctional, but each and every one of us was equally loved. At least, that's what I like to think." The Archangel shook his head and looked at Rabiyu, "Sorry about that, I guess I lost myself for a moment, it HAS been awhile since the last time I thought about my father or mothers. I will take a quick look to see who this mysterious angel is. Keep an eye on those four, I feel there is tension between them."

Rabiyu nodded and Sifrei turned around and walked into the villa, he had to know who this mysterious angel was. Rabiyu on the other hand thought about how little she actually knew about her angelic friend, maybe she had to take the time to learn more about him and the other judges once everything was back to normal.

Edited by Elrandir

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