Roleplay Overworld RP *COMPLETE*

[Vaude 536]

- Rufus Contralto, Mystran encampment's outskirts -

 

Rufus was positively piqued -- ecstatic, really -- that he was engaged in conversation with another, even when that was not his goal in the slightest to begin with.  He looked down at Helios with a giddy grin and flashed to the front of the young Spriggan, rushing out his hand to the kid.

 

"Rufus Contralto, at your service!" he voiced before realising that his hand went clean through the other's.  "By the Ashpit, that gets me every time.  Anyhow!  I am a new addition to this army, and I have been here for a total of thirty-nine seconds and change before you initiated dialogue!  'Tis a pleasure meeting you!"

 

The bubbly djinni looked around, chiefly towards the others as they went a bit deeper into magical erudition.  Bodily regeneration through channeling of electricity?  This was a wonderful adaptation of electricity, much more powerful than that of a person he heard of years ago, or perhaps met.  Electricity harmed the cells of her body as it passed through her, though she quickened her speed and reaction greatly as a result.  Such a technique would have greatly helped Ychera had he the ability to go back in time, or that other world on the fringe of his memory.

 

Now the trainees and Alastor were going on a sensory adventure, delving into the smells of the world around them.  Rufus never really thought about smells until now, either cutting it out of his senses or not activating it.  Perplexing, but this was worthy of some attempt of reintegration.

 

((Rufus' actions can be in-between your posts, Star, or after, whichever you prefer.  I can make modifications.))

 

 

- Lord Raiden, within his tent with Maxis, Rabiyu, and Lorleanna -

 

The lord of Mystras bit lightly down on his tongue at the new turn of the conversation, Maxis' unhinged status not at all being missed.  Raiden did not want to start a witch hunt that Maxis would eventually pursue, but he did want to follow up on his question and imprison the murdering rogue that dared spill Shiva's blood.  This would require tact.

 

Luckily, Lorleanna entered and made herself known, giving Raiden enough time to think of a manner to relay the information.  Furthermore, she carried a message from Alderon, which prompted a pleased bat of the eye from the Mystran ruler.  He needed to talk with Alderon, and his desire for conversation presented a good time to do so.

 

"You are happily pardoned, and Alderon may enter as he will, during or after," he spoke coolly to the marvelously skilled lizard woman.  "I have a feeling that this conversation will end soon, anyhow."

 

He waited for Lorleanna to exit the tent before he reconvened his conversation with the others.

 

"There are definitely suspicions I can voice to you, Maxis, but take no action just yet after hearing them.  One of my colleagues, do not ask who, assured that Yevgeni Malachite of Kilkes Seres was after the Feyslayer weeks before now, and that it was stolen from its protective housing shortly thereafter.  However, I feel that I know the man still after the many years of gracing Alexander's court.  He would not do anything rashly back in the day, and the assassin, a very different person with ashen skin and flamboyant clothes, was nothing but rash.  It may be that there is a connection between the two, but it is also likely that the assassin and his cohorts stole the dagger from Yevgeni and went on their own path.

 

"Beyond that," he continued, rubbing his eyes meditatively, "further evidence is being gathered, of which I might have made you aware.  This is the only major lead we have, but I again request that you take no action regarding Yevgeni.  You are of Kilkes Seres and respected in some manner over there, and I would have you keep to that.  Surveillance is fine, but say nothing to him regarding the matter.  We do not need heedless bloodshed based on suspicion alone.  We need hard, factual proof."

 

 

- Jari Coriander, Kilkes Seres encampment -

 

The foxchild barely withheld a blush from his cheeks as Elia brushed her hands against his, probably thankful for him, but also walking up to Aqua.  The following was relieving.  Their pins-and-needles moment had passed into a beautiful reintegration of friendship between the two girls, and Jari sighed happily as a result.

 

"Jari Coriander," he proffered, holding out his hand toward the elven lass Aqua.  "It is a pleasure to meet you under better circumstances than previously.  We briefly met before, if you remember, after the meathead incident in the forest, though we never exchanged names."

 

Afterwards, the prince ventured inside the premises, wondering where Yevgeni was, and Jari's tufted ears shifted.  He had already pointed him out before and silently hoped that somebody else would point him out again.  Besides that, he did not want to even get close to royalty after stealing that well-aged bottle of sour wine.  If Jynn recognised him for that for whatever reason, he could kiss his foxy pelt goodbye.

Edited April 13, 2018 by Vaude

[Mystics Apprentice 2,397]

--Yevgeni Malachite -- Kilkis Seres Campsite--

 

The corner of Yev's mouth curved into a smile as he watched Soren take a whiff of his food.  It was a curious mannerism, and he partly wondered if this was something commonly practiced among demons of his nature.  Regardless, the blond found it amusing, though made no comment on the matter.  Instead he chose to answer Soren's question.

 

"Now what, you ask."  The elf let out a sigh, leaning back in his chair, hands still folded upon the table.  "That is an excellent question, and one that I have given a fair amount of thought to and still do not know the answer.  I intend to get this world in order, though I do not intend to rule it.  I am not cut out to be king, though I do not know who will step up to the plate if not for myself.  Prince Jynn has . . . shaken my confidence, to put it kindly.  His mother sheltered him, perhaps too much so, and thus I am uncertain if he is really ready for the task as king.  He certainly makes quite the number of disappearances, something he would have to curb if he did choose to take his position as ruler of Kilkis Seres."

 

Yevgeni paused, taking a sip of water before continuing.  "I am partially thinking that we as a nation have outgrown the monarchy and are ready to embrace a new era, a new manner of ruling, such as a democracy.  Of course, such decisions would be made upon public consensus, though this is what I'm thinking, personally.  What are your thoughts, Soren?

 

"But before we linger too heavily on that, allow me to elaborate on our next course of action.  I feel that targeting Mystras has become useless.  While they are indeed responsible--or most likely--for Queen Shiva's death, they are not the prime issue that remains.  No, it is the humans that are truly backing up this operation, and thus I have chosen to hold them responsible for their crimes.  I am sending our armies down in the world below, and we will take care of the problem at the source.  The barrier between our worlds, as you know, has been lifted, permitting both worlds to cross freely between one another.  Their need for our magic is also putting a strain on the Overworld, and I will be darned if they take our queen in addition to our magical resources."

 

Yevgeni drained the remains of his water before folding his arms over his chest.  A pendant on a silver chain around his neck jingled softly with his movement.  "My plan is to pursue King Alexander's dream: I will create a true era of peace, like one this world has never seen before.  He had the right idea with the barrier, but it has had its flaws.  It has also sentenced all humans, good and bad, to a dying world.  My desire is to correct this.  Instead of shut out all humans, I will open our gates to those who are pure of heart.

 

"That, so far, is my plan.  Can you see yourself aligning with my ideals, Soren, or will you return to Lord Raiden of Mystras and brand yourself a traitor once and for all?  I invite you to join me in my pursuit of peace, but if you choose to turn away you will become my enemy, and I can assure you that I will not be as forgiving as our late queen."

 

--King Alderon -- Mystras encampment, joining Raiden, Maxis, and Rabiyu--

 

Lorleanna offered Lord Raiden a deep bow, her dark braid mere inches from the ground.  "Thank you, my lord.  I shall inform His Majesty."

 

With that, the reptilian woman left the tent, returning alongside the impatient king, who currently stood admiring the sky.

 

"Lord Raiden is currently entertaining another audience," Lorleanna informed him.  "But he doesn't mind your entry.  You are free to join him whenever you deem fit."

 

"My goodness, now I'm being given choices!" Alderon exclaimed mockingly.  His hard grey eyes met hers, before finally responding: "I think I will join him now.  If I continue to wait until all of his audiences are cleared I will never find the opportunity to speak with him, and that would be quite the disappointment.  Thank you, General."

 

The woman nodded before retreating into the campsite.  Alderon stole a glance in either direction before entering the tent, as though sensing that he were being watched.  Inside he found Lord Raiden, along with Hisie, whom he'd met previously.  There was another man in armor, however, whom he'd not met, though he had a sinking feeling of dread at his presence.

 

"Hello, Raiden, my friend," Alderon greeted, clasping his hands before him.  "I have been looking to speak with you all of the morning, though it seems you have become a celebrity overnight."  He chuckled lightly.  "I do hope that I am not interrupting anything too grave?"

[Stardustblade358 806]

- Arthur & Helios - /w Aura, Alastor, Rufus - Training - Outskirts of Mystras -

Arthur paused as he noticed the person that had appeared, talking to Helios as Alastor talked to Aura. He hurried over to take a closer look, just in time to see Rufus' hand go right through Helios', catching both boys off guard. "Whoa!" Arthur gasped, dismissing his lightning as his mind wandered to the current situation. "You're a ghost?!" Arthur asked. Helios blinked a few times, looking down at his hand and then back at Rufus. "Not a ghost." Helios hummed, closing his hand. "Ghosts don't just show up like that." Helios said, glancing up at Rufus and tilting his head. However his attention was taken by Aura's description of the smells, something a human shouldn't be able to do. Helios was quick to jump down from his branch, landing swiftly next to Aura before he turned to her. She still smelled like Aura, the same sweet scent as from the time they had met. But it was obvious by now that something was off. "If you were attacked by a creature carrying a type of lycanthropy, you could've been infected. It's odd that you didn't transform. Maybe it's partial?" Helios spoke, his tone turning worried as he then reached out to Aura. He pinched her cheeks, pulling at them a bit as he tried to look at her teeth. "Have you grown any new canines yet? Or grown fur in unusual places? Aura, this would be the first reported Lycanthropy case affecting a human!" Helios said, by this point smiling as his mind began to fill itself with all kinds of questions. Arthur crawled up to the tree, still interested in Rufus. "If you just got here, then...does this mean that you were on the other side, with Kilkis Seres?" Arthur asked, curious at the new magical soldier. "But if you're not a ghost, then what are you?" Arthur asked, his eyes sparkling with curiosity. "Are you a forest spirit?!"

[Nero Kunivas 3,046]

- Soren Monroe, the Penitent Traitor - Kilkis Campgrounds, Dinner with Yevgeni -

 

Yevgeni spoke, clearly contemplating his next move in regards to their world, while Soren listened intently for the most part while eating his sandwich, deciding to let him get his words out before he threw his hat into the ring. Something that piqued his interest was Yevgeni's mention of replacing the monarchy with a democracy, allow the people to elect governmental officials, as it were, instead of the next in a bloodline. Soren put a hand to his chin for a moment, "Hmm." he said, pointing lightly to Yevgeni as he finished chewing. "A democracy is only as good as its people and the elected officials. As long as the people know who and what they want and those elected can deliver, it would be an effective system...but," Soren took a quick swig of his water, licking his lips to keep them working efficiently. "The monarchy is so ingrained into our society, our lives...I don't know if it'd go very smoothly, regardless of our plans." He concluded, taking another bite of his sandwich when he finished, allowing Yevgeni to resume into his next big point.

 

The regent then elaborated upon his next course of action, something that completely took Soren by surprise.

 

Targeting and combating Mystras was ruled as "useless", which pleased Soren, this war wasn't what the world needed right now, not by a long shot. Beyond that, he could only listen quietly as Yevgeni went on to say that regardless of their likely responsibility for Shiva's death, they weren't their prime issue at hand...it was the Humans. Soren almost choked on his sandwich when the words came out of Yevgeni's mouth, but still the Elf went on as Soren forced it down. He held them responsible for the crimes committed and intended to send an army down to their world, presumably to destroy their capital city and military might. It was then he stated that the Overworld was being strained by the magic being shared between worlds once more, a statement that produced internal disgust and anger in the demon.

 

Yevgeni then finished his drink, concluding that he wished to pursue the dream of the late King Alexander and to allow entrance to the Overworld for salvation from their dying world, humans with pure hearts, as to leave the "bad" to die. Finally, he laid out the deal to Soren: Join him or be ostracized again and forever.

 

Soren could barely contain his hate, his rage nor his disgust at that moment, clenching his fist, crushing his remaining bit of sandwich before breathing deeply and speaking finally. "Please, allow me to...to get the facts straight with myself here, Yevgeni...you seek to end our conflict with Mystras, that's good." He began, raising his hands after resting his elbows on the table. "Then you seek to eliminate the source of our issues, to eradicate the "Human problem"? To send our armies marching to their world that's only just begun to breathe again and crush them?" Soren went on, air quoting where needed and lowering his empty hand and tilting his head. "After that, you'll put them back into their chokehold and watch the "bad" die while you elevate the pure of heart to our world to survive, thereby finally cementing our race as the superior race with no equal or having to worry about any pesky "lesser beings"...is that about right?!" Soren then slammed the sandwich holding hand to the table, desperately trying to keep his composure, to little avail.

 

"You would knowingly condemn their race to death, just as King Alexander did, but instead you're better because you're more...picky? Who are you to decide who gets to live and who deserves to die, Yevgeni?!" Soren couldn't hold back anymore, openly angry, but speaking in a low growl rather than shouting, his true rage shining through in such circumstances. "We're not Gods. We don't get to make that decision! A decision that began with a war caused by a greedy, power hungry minority of the Human Race who ruled enough and wielded enough power to make war with us oh so long ago...I'm not old enough to have been in the war, but I was in the close aftermath. I saw the disdain on Fey's faces whenever they even so much as thought "Human"..." Soren elaborated, gesturing as needed, but not breaking eye contact with Yevgeni.

 

"I never quite understood it all, but then, I read the history books, I asked around, I even talked to her majesty about the same topic, as she was older than me, even an Eidolon...and then I understood as much as I could. I came to the conclusion that...that the Human Race, as a whole, did not deserve that fate, not for the actions of their leaders and gluttonous oafs." His words impassioned, Soren explained his views on Humanity and their ancient war with Feykind, particularly seeming...reminiscent at the mention of Shiva's honourific. "Yevgeni, I was there, I was! When Lord Raiden and Queen Shiva began to come to an accord...that maybe, the barrier just wasn't the solution anymore. It was then that progress was murdered right before us just as Shiva herself by a white robed assassin, laughing as he made his escape after brutalizing her body...now here I am, sitting with the Regent of Kilkis Seres, who's suggesting genocide as our solution?!" Soren began to get more angry, standing up from his seat and glaring at Yevgeni. "To condemn the civilians, the men, women and children who did nothing wrong, to suffocate, dry up and die?! I cannot abide this abhorrent course of action, I can't!" He added almost as a plea, but he sought no such thing from Yevgeni.

 

Soren took a long time to breathe, his eyes closed before collecting his thoughts, looking at his destroyed sandwich, his own hand...and Yevgeni Malachite. "What you speak of is FAR from peaceful..." Soren then pointed at the regent. "You had better hope Prince Jynn returns soon, Yevgeni. Then perhaps, you'll still see me around, serving the "correct side". But I'd only do that as long as you were as far away from that throne as possible. Because in life and death, I serve Queen Shiva. And all those related to her, like I swore on her deathbed!" Soren announced, sweeping his arm downward before making a turn away toward the door. "And Lord Raiden is close enough, being her former lover. I'll live with the shame, because I won't betray the principles, the care...the heart, that was Queen Shiva de la Alexandria, who before her death...was more than willing to finally extend the hand of friendship to a race that deserves our attention, our care...our respect." Soren then began to walk away, parting with a remark.

 

- Soren Monroe, Servant of Shiva's Will -

 

"We're done here...thanks for the sandwich." Though he did stop for a moment to utter one last thing. "If you're wondering where I'm going, I'm headed to the armoury. I at least deserve to claim my last possessions before I depart for Mystras, "my liege". As I understand, that tradition hasn't been butchered by an arrogant, disgrace to his species. Farewell." With that, Soren began to depart the cooking tent.

Edited April 14, 2018 by Nero Kunivas

[Elrandir 783]

- Aura - Outskirts of Mystras -

Aura could hear the movement of the branches of the trees, and something landing next to her, the scent of Helios coming closer.

"Lycanthropy? May I ask what is that?" Aura asked as she looked at the fey, "I've never heard of such thing in our world. And what do you mean by transform"

The young woman was suddenly surprised by the fact that Helios had pinched her cheeks, which were turning a faint tint of red for no apparent reason, she didn't really knew how to react to that. On one hand it was a violation of her personal space, on the other Helios sounded worried so she allowed him to do what he felt was correct.

"Canines? You mean fangs correct? I-I suppose my canines have grown? I never really thought about it so..." She asked as she used her finger to poke her canines, which were now slightly bigger than before, "I can't really give you an answer. But I do remember that I was very hungry when I woke up this morning. I mean, more than usual, I suppose. A group of feys said that they were actually surprised by the amount of food that I had eaten. I was too, since I didn't really realized that I had eaten such a great amount until they pointed that out."

Aura then listened that hers could be the first reported case of Lycanthropy affecting a human, whatever that was. Helios looked happy so she was wondering if she had to be worried about her situation.

[Mystics Apprentice 2,397]

--Yev Malachite-- Kilkis Seres campsite--

 

The elf fixated Soren with an unblinking stare throughout his entire heated response.  Once finished, Yev merely sighed and brought his chin to his chest.  "I did not expect a simpleton such as yourself to understand, but I thought it was worth the effort.  If you still choose to chase after a fool's dream of having it all then by all means, please do so.  There is no such thing.  King Alexander knew it, and your beloved queen did as well.  Hence why she sentenced all humans to death in the world below.  But, unlike your queen, I intend to save as many souls as I can.  Is that not better?"

 

Yevgeni watched Soren's back as he left, though didn't seem particularly bothered by the sentinel's words.  Nergal had advised that the elf tread carefully, something that Yev attempted, though he ultimately failed to provide falsehoods and earn Soren's trust.  Perhaps he was deluded enough to think that the truth would suffice in winning him over.  Or, perhaps he was still bitter about his betrayal to Raiden's side.  Regardless, an alliance was not meant to be, and the next time they met he assumed that it would be on opposite sides of the battlefield.

 

"I was there," Yevgeni murmured softly, as Soren's form disappeared behind the folds of the tent.  "I lost all that I cared about from that war.  No amount of written works found in history books could ever depict the horror and tragedy that took place during the Great War, and to pretend to understand is an insult to those who were forced to endure it firsthand."  He clenched a gloved hand tightly before him, eyes glassy with tears.  "If I can help it, no one will ever experience a loss such as that ever again."

[Stardustblade358 806]

- Arthur & Helios - /w Aura, Alastor, Rufus - Training - Outskirts of Mystras -

Helios eventually let go of Aura, humming as he glanced at her, tilting his head. "Lycanthropy is an infectious disease that originates from the Werewolf gene. Werewolves are able to look like Feys or any other regular creature, but able to transform into these giant wolf like creatures while retaining their intelligence, if they are skilled enough to not give into their instincts. Like Vamparism, it takes physical contact with the creature's saliva to your bloodstream for you to contract it. If there is a way to reverse it, it is either a myth or simply not known." Helios spoke, quickly thinking of possibilities as he scratched his cheek. "Despite the variety and diversity, there aren't many species that can just transform others into one of their owns like Vampires, Werewolves and others do. While there are some that can be transformed, it usually requires a whole other process entirely." Helios hummed, gently feeling Aura's ears a bit. They were still round, and as he rubbed her hair, he didn't feel any dog ears either. "But you aren't showing any signs of Lycanthropy, though. You would have definitely transformed the moment it entered your bloodstream, or hours later. It's been way too long." Arthur said. He then knelt down, gently pressing his ear against Aura's chest until he could hear her heartbeat. "Your heart still beats too, and you ate actual food. So Vampirism is out of the question as well." Helios hummed, stepping back as he crossed his arms. "Whatever bit you might've done the same thing to what happened to Henry and the others, in a less drastic way. A mix of genes to enhance your abilities and senses to that of the original aggressor. Humanity hasn't encountered many of the beasts that this world has...how anything from a bite to blood transfusions react to the human body, the possibilities are endless." Helios concluded, gently rubbing his head. "It was known what Fey blood could do to humans because of Alderon's experiments...guess we're still learning just how adaptable humans are compared to this world."

Edited April 15, 2018 by Stardustblade358

[Sora's Baby 729]

~Aqua: At the Camp, Kilkis Seres: Relieved~
Aqua sighed in relief as Elia hugged her. She hugged back awkwardly. To tell the truth, she hadn’t gotten used to Elia’s affection personality. Not that she disliked being hugged or the physical contact, more so that she wasn’t often shown a great deal of affection.  Her time with Yevgeni had honestly made her time with Elia seem almost dreamlike in a way. A great weight had been lifted off of her shoulders. She leaned on her staff slightly. “Hello, Jari.” She shook Jari’s offered hand. Now if only Aqua could get Elia to understand that Yevgeni wasn’t bad. She offered a small smile. That could come later, for now, she had to learn about why Elia was at this camp in the first place, Elia wasn’t the warrior type after all.

 

(Sorry, it's short. I wasn't sure what to write and since we might timeskip soon I wanted to put up something.)

[Elrandir 783]

- Aura - outskirts of Mystras -

 

"A disease you say? but I feel fine," Aura said calmly, "I suppose the things I can do now are because of that, correct? Like my speed, or being able to smell scents from far away."

 

And there he went once again. Helios began to touch her ears, her hair, he also knelt down and pressed his ear against her chest. Aura began to feel more nervous, she didn't really showed it, but it was strage having Helios so close.

 

"I suppose...I'm not entirely human anymore, right? If I'm like Henry, or the others that went through with Alderon's experiments," Aura said, "Well...I think I'll have to live with that. I can't do anything about it."

 

Aura was slightly worried about what she had learned that moment. Apparently, she had been infected with something called "Lycanthropy", something that came from the wolf fey and gave her new abilities. She just hoped that there wasn't any side effects down the road.

[Vaude 536]

- Lord Raiden, Mystran encampment, with Maxis, Rabiyu, and Alderon -

 

Raiden took a glance at the man behind him and emitted a smile.  The response was certainly quick of him.  Seemingly it did not take much to have him enter the conversation, or perhaps he was closer than what Raiden originally thought.

 

"You certainly are not," he commented towards Alderon with a tired grin, "and 'becoming a celebrity' is certainly a kinder way of saying 'put under the microscope,' so I thank you there.   We were off to end the conversation anyway and I have no other engagements, so you may speak at your leisure if you allow me to talk in turn.  There is much to discuss between us, including one mote of business which you might be interested in.  How would you like to meet secretly with royalty, namely the son of the late queen, on a matter of diplomacy?"

 

 

- Rufus Contralto, with Arthur on the outskirts of the Mystran encampment -

 

The perplexing and perhaps maddening genie of the lamp tittered at the thought about being a ghost and a forest spirit, though those were probably good guesses.  He needed to learn more about this world and its many curiosities.

 

"I am neither shade nor spirit!  I am much more!  I am a djinni!" he uttered, proud as a peacock with his chest puffed out.  "I just, er, am claimed at the moment, so perhaps much less than much more!"  And just like that, he deflated.  "But to answer the question that popped out of your tiny mouth like a Whack-a-Mole -- whatever that is -- I hold no allegiance to either side, but I will help whoever I can who is allied to my mistress, and for now it is thy side!  A pleasure to make your acquaintance!"

Edited April 18, 2018 by Vaude

[Stardustblade358 806]

- Arthur & Helios - /w Aura, Alastor, Rufus - Training - Outskirts of Mystras -

Helios looked up at Aura, now feeling like a prick. Did he made her feel bad? She quickly waved his hands. "U-Um!" Helios said. "You're still pretty human! We don't even know how much further has this affected you! You still look the same. No fluffy ears or anything! Though even with them you'd still look just as cute." Helios assured, smiling until he caught up to realize with what he had said. He felt his cheeks burn, not knowing how to respond to his own words. "U-Um, I mean, even with fluffy ears and a tail, you'd still be pretty! Not that you aren't pretty now! You're very pretty, you've always been!" Helios panicked, only making it worse as he slapped his hands over his mouth before he screwed up any further. "Sorry." He muffled. Arthur gasped at Rufus, smiling at him. "Now way! Like the ones from fairy tales?! The ones that grant wishes?!" Arthur asked, now holding onto the branch as he tried to climb closer to Rufus. "So you can make a hundred pounds of chocolate appear? Or give me a puppy?" Arthur asked, pausing before asking seriously. "Can you cure magic illnesses?"

[Vaude 536]

- Rufus Contralto, with Arthur Pendragon on the outskirts of the Mystran encampment -

 

Rufus puffed out his chest again in indulgence, pleased as punch to have some level of interest from a question-filled individual.  Arthur seemed like a very good chap, and, if his guess was correct, had his heart in the right place, so he prattled on.  Honestly, though, he did not need much of a prod to do so.

 

"I can do all that and more!  A thousand pounds of chocolate, or fifty puppies!  I can cure all magical ailments as long as they are not of true divinity or paradoxical in nature, and not even death can contain my power!  Now I sound like a lich.  Ohoho!  Silly me.  But enough about that.  I have been claimed, so I must await instructions for such wishes, though once the only wish is used I will be available for another individual.  With luck, I will not have such!  I intend to be freed as long as nothing befalls my claimant.  An accord has been struck of the highest caliber, a promissory dialogue between me and she!  Such a conversation must become the key to a play I shall write, with myself as the star!  A pageant of such class would be a spectacle to behold, I have little doubt!  Or it would, if I could scribble anything on paper."

Edited April 18, 2018 by Vaude

[Elrandir 783]

- Aura - outskirts of Mystras -

Aura was taken aback by Helios's sudden outburst, which was, surprisingly, about her being cute and pretty. Weird, most of the time people said that she acted like a tomboy, which only served as an incentive to keep acting the way she did. She was free to act as she desired, not bound by any preconceptions others had about how a proper lady had to behave. She loved adventures, to travel, to discover new and interesting things. Her journey with her dear brother had managed to give her access to that and more. Much, much more.

"Helios. Helios, it's alright, I...I understand what you're trying to say, I think?" Aura said as her cheeks slowly turned a faint tint of red, "We may not know how this "Lycanthropy" is affecting me yet, I mean, besides an enhanced sense of smell and my speed. I just hope there are no more serious side effects down the road. I feel fine at the moment, great even, so maybe that's the full extent of this strange infection. Only time will tell."

The young woman looked at the side in an attempt to not look the Spriggan in the eyes. She felt somewhat awkward after what Helios had said, it made her feel happy for a reason unkown to her. It felt nice. If it had been someone else she would have been asking if they mean that as a joke, but with Helios? she felt that he was speaking the truth, he looked quite flustered after all.

"And, uh...Thanks for the compliment."

[Scrapmaster 1,731]

- Alastor - The storm - explaining Lycanthropy -

 

Alastor stood in total silence...and complete bafflement at how lightly they were taking a life threatening disease such as this.

 

A loud and audible sigh escaped Alastor's mouth as he began to explain the situation. "You do realize these are the first symptons? The next few days she might grow fur, have more of a thirst for meat, and might pounce on someone's throat at a full moon if left unchecked and untreated." Alastor explained in his common blank tone, also pointing towards Helios as he said it for added effect.

 

"First few days, physical abilities increase, sense of smell and fangs also grow" Alastor began. "Then fur begins growing, then her hunger for meat, and when its a full moon she pounces on the nearest person...or fully turns into a fully fledged werewolf. That is how all types of this disease work." Alastor finished.

 

"If you don't treat this, with an alchemist or...a druid...your symptoms might get worse...and then you know what will happen." Alastor spoke implying exactly what they all possibly thought as he said it. He would put her down if she lost control, that was just how it went. And he wasn't going to let a werewolf run free to cause havoc.

 

Alastor then turned to Rufus, the genie who was too excited over all this. "Who might 'she' be?" Alastor asked him, with a cold, dead serious tone. He had no patience for genies, he had little patience for many things actually.

 

 

- Maxis - The mad armor - Meeting with Raiden, Rabyiu and Alderon -

 

The meeting was going swimmingly...well, as far as Maxis was concerned anyway, his earlier rage over the revelation of the feyslayer subsided and he was rather controled now. As Alderon entered the tent, Maxis turned to him, he'd crack a grin, but he had no face to do so. So Maxis did the most logical, most polite thing possible.

 

He grabbed his head, detached it and bowed in greeting to Alderon. "Hello there, human king..." Maxis spoke, as he reatached his head with a satisfying attaching noise..

 

The mention of a son of royalty then took Maxis's direct attention. As he faced Raiden, "Ah...Jynn!...I wonder how he's coping with his mother's death." Maxis spoke, bringing a hand to his helmet's chin. Though he feared more for the prince's safety.

 

"But no doubt the assassin who killed Shiva, might also be after his life..." Maxis spoke as his tone changed yet again.

Edited April 24, 2018 by Scrapmaster

[Stardustblade358 806]

- Arthur & Helios - /w Aura, Alastor, Rufus - Training - Outskirts of Mystras -

 

Helios smiled softly at Aura, only to get hit with the brick of reality by Alastor. He had completely forgotten about the...very unruly nature of such sickness. The process that was to be periled by those who weren't meant obtain it. Being unable to control the first states of the transformation could be deadly not only for them, but for everyone involved. "Surely there must be someone at the camp who can help. There are remedies for this!" Helios said, quickly stepping up to face Alastor. "If there are not any in the camp, then we'll look for one further out!" Helios insisted. This kind of thing was surely common enough for there to be a standard procedure. The cases where one wouldn't notice and let the illness be without any precautions usually led to the Werewolf being loose in a situation that could not be controlled...but he would not allow Aura to be another of those circumstances. She looked at Aura. "We'll get you someone. How about we hurry back now and begin asking around? There's bound to be someone." Helios asked, offering a gentle smile. Meanwhile Arthur watched in awe. He could cure illnesses. That was all he wanted to her. Arthur jumped, pushing himself further up the branches as he stared at Rufus. "You're currently claimed, who do I have to talk to for you to grant me a wish?! There's someone that requires a cure, as quickly as possible!" He said, looking at Rufus with gleaming eyes. "Please, Rufus! Is she around? Would she be willing to speak?!"

[Elrandir 783]

- Rabiyu - Raiden's tent -

Rabiyu had remained silent, waiting for any reaction by the Queen's retainer, until an unknown voice was heard. She recognized the voice as General Lorleanna, whom she had see and met before. Apparently the human King wanted an audience with Raiden. This made her wonder what would happen if the human King and the Queen's retainer were in the same place. Lorleanna left as quickly as she appeared, which made Rabiyu sigh. Once King Alderon came into the tent she bowed slightly out of respect. Rabiyu's attention went towards Maxis and his strange manners towards King Alderon. At this point Rabiyu learned that this was no fey, not a normal one, at least. The strange Retainer was, in fact, a possessed suit of armor. She was going to remain silent for the moment, listening to what Raiden, Maxis and Alderon had to discuss.

- Aura - outskirts of Mystras -

Aura was suddenly brought back to reality as Alastor explained what would happen with her new condition. Apparently, there was a possibility of her running wild, which was very possible if one took into consideration the kind of creature that gave her said infection. Something about Alastor's words sent shivers down her spine.

"I think I have an idea of what can happen," Aura answered as she remembered Fenrir, "If the creature I fought against is any indication. Although he was capable of thought so getting this infection under control could be possible."

Aura then looked at Helios and stared at him for a moment. It was strange seeing him so eager to find someone to help her condition. It made her feel nice knowing that there was someone who cared about what happened to her.

"Alright Helios. Let's do that." Aura replied as she picked her bouquet from the ground.

[Vaude 536]

- Rufus Contralto, outside the Mystran encampment, with Arthur and Alastor -

 

Rufus glanced over to Alastor, catching the man speak about a she, and if he had any sense he would have paled at the sight of the man.  His aura read of one who could control air, and not just lightning, the former of which could lay him vulnerable and soundly defeated upon one or two heavy blows should they hit him.  Instead, the djinni casually glanced over to the armoured individual and flashed a grin.  Before he could say anything, others spoke, and he allowed them to finish all that was said before he coughed to free his operatic voice.

 

"She would be a maiden not from these parts, a snowy-haired lass who speaks without emotion.  I speak of milady Rabiyu, a person some of you may or may not know, though I know of you and your name, Sir Alastor.  I was in my lamp at the time, and I never forget a speech intonation, especially one such as yours.  As for her whereabouts, she had sought the one known as Raiden.  If you request her audience, she will no doubt hearken to you, especially if you say my magic words.  Speak them and she will have no doubt they came from me!  Here they be!  Are you ready?  Ahem . . . 'Zipizoopa Baklava Bratislava!' "

 

He stared off into space for a second before shaking his head.

 

"On second thought, forget the magic words."

[Nero Kunivas 3,046]

- Soren Monroe, Servant of Shiva's Will - Kilkis Campgrounds, headed to its Armoury -

 

Once Soren had departed from the Cooking Tent, his anger had subsided, but his disgust toward Yevgeni and his "grand" plan still lingered as he marched away, his destination not too far away as War Camps took most of the Armoury Stock with them, he assumed that when they went to war, they didn't know for sure if he was a traitor to Kilkis Seres, so they must've brought along his own equipment. Either way, Soren made his way to the Armoury Tent, a particularly large one indeed, past the inattentive Guardsman and began to explore.

 

"My Queen taken from this world, her son nowhere in sight, the Regent is a delusional fool...now I am to run back into the arms of the man I betrayed Shiva for in the first place...how did we all end up here, then?" Soren's mind voiced as he eyed every crate there, each one designated to their respective owners, some grander than others, garishly so, he thought. Then one caught his eye:

 

~~ Armour and Weapons to be bestowed to the Warrior ~~

 

Soren Monroe, Sentinel of Isopolis

 

~~ With Regards from Her Majesty, Queen Shiva de la Alexandria ~~

 

~~ Kilkis Seres Salutes You. Fight Well. ~~

 

Soren's old title produced something akin to nostalgia within him, though with a tinge of lingering regret for his actions. His crate was like the ones of Knights, but it had a darker, obsidian material-like look compared to the rugged steel they carried, specially made for those esteemed by the Queen. And the position of Sentinel was one such position...Soren found himself briefly longing for the role once more, to protect something so sacred from those who dared trespass, to strike them down, or imprison them and watch over them as their Warden. Alas, Soren realized he wouldn't be getting anywhere dwelling on his past, seeking to relive glory days, so he simply unlocked and opened his crate and began to rummage.

 

"Hey! You can't be in here, who are you?" It seemed that the Guard from before had woken up, so to speak, entering the tent and initially calling sternly to Soren, but something about Soren lowered him to be a little more subdued about his approach, particularly Soren's lack of care for his presence. "Just collecting my possessions, Guard." Soren uttered, not paying him a look, making the Guard a little confused. "But you didn't sign in, acknowledge me or present your crest! You could be a thief!" He called, Soren rolling his eyes. "So stop me then." He snarked, resuming his search. The Guardsman simply sighed, but he couldn't leave since Soren spoke up. "Though while you're here, perhaps you could assist me in suiting up? If you're feeling bored." Soren requested a little more kindly, primarily because one person could not put on a full suit of armour by themselves. The Guardsman relented, shrugging and beginning a steady approach. "Well, I suppose you're not a thief. None I've met would be so brazen." Then something caught his eye. "What's that then?" Noting the strange helmet Soren procured from his crate, it was made of a strange material and had strange, ornamental qualities to it, primarily the horns.

 

"It is the helmet of my armour from my service in Kilkis Seres's military before I was elevated to a more esteemed position...it's ancient demonic armour." Soren then scoffed to himself. "Strange how I distanced myself from my heritage, yet this armour still felt right on me...perhaps it still will." He mused, the Guardsman seeming impressed with the craftsmanship, but he soon looked around to the top of the crate's lid that had been lifted. "Hey, this is...Soren Monroe's crate..." "Yes, it is...mine." They both finally looked each other in the eye. When Soren laid his eyes upon the slightly scarred, roughly composed face of the Guardsman, both of them were astonished. "Harrison?!" Soren exclaimed in something he hadn't felt for a while, delight, with Harrison laughing in response, they both swiftly clasping each other's arms in greeting. "Soren Monroe, it's been too long, hasn't it?" Royal Guardsman Harrison spoke warmly, despite knowing of Soren's actions as of late, he was just glad to see an old friend's face.

 

"Certainly so!" Soren replied, then seemed a little...bashful, to say the least. "Listen, Harrison--" "I know, you want to explain. What in the seven hells happened to you, old friend? Soldier, Captain, Sentinel! ...then I hear you've betrayed us?" Soren sighed deeply, remorse in his gut. "I made a mistake, Harrison. Just, the gravest of mistakes...one I still intend to atone for." Soren then returned briefly to rummaging after setting his helmet down to the side. "Rest assured, I still serve our late Queen's memory, regardless of what our "dear" regent may say to you. Technically, my treachery has been stricken due to "extenuating circumstances"." Harrison listened to Soren intently, though he was surprised, he didn't exclaim in disbelief nor did he cast doubt on Soren. "We've talked enough for me to know when you're being insincere with me, Soren...so you can rest easy." Harrison said, finishing with a reassuring smile. Soren breathed easier, then he looked to Harrison with an intrigued look. "Well, enough about me for now, what about you? How'd you make Royal Guardsman, then?" He quizzed, amusing Harrison. "Well, after my service I was offered the role, I took it! I guess you got the same treatment?" He answered, prompting some thought from Soren. "Indeed, perhaps they took note of how I saved your ass?" "Hey now, I recall saving your sorry ass, Soren." Soren then pondered, chuckling afterward. "Actually, both are true, really. We both watched each other's backs against Necromancer Feredir and his Undead Army. When was that...seven hundred years ago?" "Seven hundred and six. You lead the charge! You...fell down a crater, but still, you soldiered on!"

 

"Yes...I did. Though that reminds me--!" Soren went though his case again, past the ornamental Saber he received when he found something quite special and held it in his hands before them both: A glowing, sapphire crystal, that constantly emanated frosty wisps from it. "I found this while I was down there, it was a cave system, not a crater." Soren noted, Harrison mainly being enamored by the crystals glow. "A Frost Gem?" "Indeed, a kind of Frost Gem. I think it's a rare one called...oh, you know more about Gems and Crystals than I. You still collect them?" Soren asked Harrison, who raised his eyebrows and nodded. "On rare occasion, but yes. Ooh, you've got quite the rare one, as you said. It's a "Boreas" Crystal, often incorrectly referred to as a Permafrost." Harrison noted curiously. "Known for it's soft glow, deep blue hue and the constant emanation of icy cold wisps. These crystals are often offered in tribute to Fey of great stature, such as the man it was named after, Boreas, or a mon...arch." Harrison eyed Soren oddly, who simply shook his head. "I didn't intend to give it to Shiva, if that's what you're asking. I served her gladly, I did not have feelings for her." "I never said you did, that's your fault, Soren." Harrison added, laughing a little.

 

"Can you carve this and put it into a necklace for me?" Soren suddenly asked, but Harrison was more than eager, taking the Crystal from his hands. "Say no more, my friend. I'm still as sharp as ever...you want anything engraved into the gem?" He asked, prompting a long moment of thinking from Soren before he began to collect his armour. "On the reverse side, engrave her name in old Elvish. And upon the front...demonic, for Sentinel. To remind me not just of what I have lost, but what I still serve, to honour and to avenge. My lost honour and the late Queen. I will claim it anew, start afresh...and will ensure her spirit rests easy by the end of all this." Harrison simply nodded and smiled. "Your wish is my command, old friend."

 

"Thank you, Harrison...once you're done, suit me up. It's time to make my mark." Soren concluded, preparing the chainmail himself.

 

- Meksis, the United, Armour of Twilight - Campgrounds Outskirts, with King Jynn -

 

Once the tenacious, cruel Assassin had been defeated and subsequently fled the scene, Meksis breathed a sigh of relief before following King Jynn and the others back to the Campgrounds, staying close to the King as to make sure no more harm would come to him.

 

"Trial by fire, wouldn't you say? For the King?"

 

"Not one he needs right now...but yes, I'm inclined to agree. I just hope he can take his mother's place well."

 

"That's all a matter of if his young heart is truly in it..."

 

Dawson's comment interrupted the internal dialogue of both Meksis's, questioning him as to his status or health. "Never better, young Dawson. I'm just pleased to see we all made it through that maniac's assault with little wear. Aside from Typhon, but I'm sure he will heal." Meksis spoke fully, his tone strong as it should be, passing a little chuckle when mentioning Typhon and his...extreme method of deterring the Assassin. Following Jynn into the tent of his choosing, he also eyed for the elusive Yevgeni, but couldn't see him either. "My King, he isn't here, but he must be around the camp...we'd better make haste, especially if you all have something to share?" Meksis spoke first to Jynn, then turned his attention to Jari, Elia and Aqua, along with a few soldiers resting up.

 

 

- Nergal, the Queenslayer - Retreating -

 

Nothing about that had gone well. Nergal hadn't killed anyone and he was now defeated, beaten and exposed. They knew his face, by all rights they had to die, but it seemed now wasn't the time...Yevgeni wasn't going to be pleased with this, dread settling into Nergal's younger heart. He had screwed up attacking King Jynn, particularly with so much protection, all with keen senses. It was foolhardy, reckless...unnecessary, especially if his and Yevgeni's plan worked out, with a few additional tasks performed in Nergal's downtime providing all the time they'll need.

 

Now Nergal had to keep to the shadows once more, hoping to get a moment of Yevgeni's time when he would be free...and that the King hadn't deposed him just yet.

 

(Soren's Armour is in the spoiler tag)

 

 

[Stardustblade358 806]

- Arthur & Helios - /w Aura, Alastor, Rufus - Training - Outskirts of Mystras -

Helios nodded at Aura, gently taking her hand as he looked back at Alastor. "We'll be heading back now. We'll find someone." He assured, turning away as he gently walked away along with Aura, the two making their way back to the camp. "Don't worry, Aura. We won't let you loose control." Helios whispered. He tried to keep his cool, even as his mind raced with the possibilities. The process was taking so long, and as good as that was, he worried, would it only get worse once the other symptoms began to kick in? He wouldn't allow it. Nope. Nu huh. "If we don't find one, then we will have a backup." Helios said, walking with one hand holding Aura's. He opened his mouth, a sharp whistle escaping his lips as from the trees flew down a rather small bird with brilliant blue feathers, landing on his other hand, lifting it up right up to Helios' face. "Hey buddy. I need you to pass a message." Helios whispered to the avian, who simply puffed its feathers in return before nodding.

 

Arthur listened to Rufus, his eyes glistening before turning back to Alastor. "Sir Alastor!" He yelled, sliding down of the tree before allowing himself to fall onto his feet, hurrying to the knight. "Sir Alastor!" Arthur said, quickly straightening himself up. "Requesting permission to pause the training session so I may search for this woman, sir!" Arthur asked, staring at Alastor as he could barely keep himself still. "Please?"

[rikunobodyxiii 700]

{Mariel: Lake Kresnik}

"Cooperation in searching for the Queen's assassin could help restore lost bonds." Mariel added, eyeing the Lord of Iron. "If we are to prevent more bloodshed, the murder must be found an punished."

She briefly glanced back at Sifrei, who had not spoken to the other investigating party. A small part of her worried that he held his tongue for a reason.

[Elrandir 783]

- Aura - outskirts of Mystras -

"Oh, um...sure," Aura said before looking at Alastor, "Thanks for the training."
Aura walked in silence for a moment, wondering about Alastor's words regarding her condition. Apparently, there were more symptoms coming if she waited for too long. It didn't showed much but she was preoccupied about it. Although having Helios's support put her doubts to rest for the time being. Aura could see worry in his eyes, even when he was trying to keep calm. She also wondered what this back up plan of Helios was.
"Helios? I, um," Aura stuttered for a second, "I just want to say...thank you. Thank you for giving me your support through this. I am very grateful."


- Sifrei - Lake Kresnik -

After a dew moments Sifrei walked back with the group after not being able to pinpoint the location of the weapon.
"I agree with Mariel and Henry here." Sifrei said to Mikhail, "It would be beneficial if both parties work together to find this weapon."
Sifrei then turned around and looked towards the lake.
"Lord Raiden gave us an estimate of where the weapon could be, that information could help all reduce the time we could spend looking for it," he said calmly, "If we work together, then the time could be reduced even more. The assassin who murdered the Frostbearer must be caught so they can pay for their crimes.

[Stardustblade358 806]

- Helios - /w Aura - Confessions

 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i0LRtNwiORY

 

 

Helios slowed down his pace as he whispered to the bird. Soon the bird flew off, carrying his message to the air. But Helios didn't resume walking, just remaining still for a few moments before speaking up. The thought had plagued him long enough, now it was a better time than ever. No Alastor, no worry of war. Just a moment. "Aura," he spoke, looking down. "I've always been a wanderer, moving from place to place, learning from experience, discovering the unknown. Humanity and your world was no different. So alike, yet so different. After what happened with Alderon, I wondered for a long time if my wonder for humanity would turn into hate, and for a while, it did." He said, sighing as he smiled a bit, his eyes glancing at the floor. "But...I was reminded again why I fell for humanity's charms in the first place. By people like Henry, and Auron...and you." Helios spoke, turning to face her fully as he held her hand in his. He held them gently and dearly, as if afraid to let go. "You remind me of everything that made me fall in love with humanity, and more. Persistent, adaptable, kind...beautiful. You don't let the laws of nature bind you. You make your own limits and soar." Helios said, his face slowly turning pink. "Aura." He spoke, and before she could answer, he quickly and gently pressed his lips against hers, landing a kiss. He kissed her for a few moments before backing away. He looked at her, smiling as his cheeks burned red, the tint reaching all the way to his ears. "I have traveled many roads, Aura. But now...I wish to only travel the one that leads to you, if you would allow me to follow." He said, holding her hand still. The child of life had fallen in love with humanity, yet it was a single human soul that had managed to steal his heart.

[Endless Thundaga 533]

Jynn and Dawson-Kilkes Seres Campsite with Alicia, Typhon, and Meksis

 

Everyone in the tent was silent. Kati was trying not to be noticed, not that Jynn would've recognized him anyway, Elia and Aqua were preoccupied with each other, and everyone else was too surprised to speak. Meksis tells Jynn that Yevgeni is not in this particular tent. Jynn acknowledges this and faces Meksis and Alicia. "Guess we'll keep looking." He opens the entrance of the tent and heads to another one, this time, he enters the armory, occupied by Soren and the keeper. Jynn asks again about Yevgeni's whereabouts. "Do you two have an idea where Yevgeni is?" He hopes for a response.

 

Meanwhile, Dawson was left with Typhon, as Meksis follows Jynn and Alicia. "We should probably follow along too." Dawson starts sprinting to the armory where Jynn and the others are.

[Mystics Apprentice 2,397]

​

 

The beginning of the end had arrived, albeit sooner than the humans could have ever predicted.  At first it was a glorious thing for magic to return to the world, life budding into the very soil and bringing forth plants that had long since ceased to grow.  The sun rose each day, appearing just a shade brighter than it once had.  Prices reduced from prosperous crops, bringing many families out of poverty.  To many it seemed a miracle, their once decaying world springing with bountiful life that hadn't been seen in centuries.

 

That was, until the End.

 

To many, it was unknown as to what was happening.  Children played in the streets as the sun shone high, while men labored smithing or tending their crops.  Women cared for their young while hanging laundry, when suddenly the earth began to quake.  At first it were small tremors, which slowly grew in intensity.  The foundation of buildings failed to hold, causing bricks and soon entire walls to come crashing down.  A group of teenagers screamed as half of a church began to fall around them, none of which making it out of the rubble.  Quickly the villages grew frantic, snatching their children and loved ones from the streets and heading out into the open fields for safety.  No one knew what was happening, though it wouldn't have mattered if they did.  No one could stop the End, which had been ensured by what seemed fate itself.

 

Under the heart of Sondon, within the sewers of the castle itself, glowed a crest embedded in the soil.  A rune, to be precise.  Its bright violet hue lit the tunnel for what seemed miles, and that was not all.  In eight different locations around the globe this phenomena began to occur, one rune after another.  With each ignited rune came greater tremors, instilling fear into the hearts of those left behind as lives started to drop in droves.

 

There were those, however, who were being granted a second chance, one of greatness in a world of limitless possibilities.  Lined outside the Kingdom of Helvadoria were droves upon droves of winged mythical creatures, fey that had been sent down by the regent of Kilkis Seres, Yevgeni Malachite.  They began to flock the sky like birds flying south for the harshness of winter, only they soared up into the sky like none had ever seen.  Five million souls were being saved that day, bringing men, women, and children alike into the world above, the Overworld.  Among them was the Princess Visco of Sondon, now captive of Helvadoria along with her personal bodyguard and best friend, Effie.  The Helvadorian king smiled upon this day, like a foolish child who earned his prized toy no matter how many he had to crush to get it.  These were but a few of those saved, but the others were not so lucky.

 

The final rune ignited, and a chain reaction occurred.  The ground began to tear asunder, energy-charged beams forming crosses upon the land as it severed it piece by piece.  The earth began to shatter in chunks as it was ripped from the inside out.  It took billions of years for life to live upon it as it once had, and a mere matter of minutes to take it all away.  Humans looked down in shock as the final fleets were escorted to the Overworld, watching in horror as their very world crumbled before their eyes.  And with it, the billions of lives that could not be saved.

 

But alas, all things came at a price, and this, some felt, was the price that must be paid in order to truly save both fey and humanity.

 

 

The dark witch strode through the palace gates of Kilkis Seres, the most crazed of smiles upon her face.  As others looked at her with disdain she merely waved, approaching the two infantryman that granted her entry to the palace.  Neither looked particularly pleased about walking alongside Midnea, but did as they had been commanded by the regent.  Once in the throne room they were greeted by the elf with an emotionless glance.

 

"It has been done, my lord."  Midnea curtsied, her long violet skirts sweeping across the marble floor, a floor that had once been enchanted ice during the late queen's rule.  "As you have requested, your chosen ones have ascended to our world, and all that remains of the human world is rubble."

 

Yevgeni showed the witch no delight in her words.  He strode past her toward a window, hands clasped behind his back.  ​So it had been done.  At long last, after nearly two-thousand years, the era he'd looked toward was finally here, and soon the lives of those he cherished would return to him.  But why was he filled with remorse and displeasure?  Shouldn't he be thrilled?

 

When he turned around he found Midnea standing a mere few feet away, the queerest of expressions on her face.  "Yes?  And why are you still here?" he snapped impatiently.

 

Midnea offered him one of her ominous grins and said, "Remember our deal?  You intend to keep your promise, don't you?"

 

The blond shook his head and scowled, walking away from her.  "It will be done.  I will withdraw our troops from the Southern Palace.  It is yours to reign once more."

 

A crazed cackle emitted from the witch as she ran her tongue over her ruby-red lips.  This was something that Yevgeni knew that he would regret, and yet it seemed an inevitable evil.  Without her aid he wouldn't have been able to save even half the amount of lives that he had, nor would all of the runes been placed in such a short duration.

 

The world below has been decimated, and word has spread across all the land.  The End has come and gone for the human world, but for the Overworld?  That remains to be seen.  Your actions from here on out will heavily impact the outcome of those survivors.  The main question is: now what?

[Elrandir 783]

 

 

 

 

- Aura - outskirts of Mystras - Before the Fall End

Everything that happened in a matter of seconds caught Aura by surprise. She had listened to what Helios had to say and, by some divine prank, or perhaps destiny, it was something that she was always afraid to hear. At first Helios was talking about his own experiences so far with the human race, the good, the bad, his imprisonment with Alderon, his anger with humanity. It reminded her about herself in some ways. She had hated the King with all of her being for what his men had done to her mother, to her life, in the end she had found answers that proved that the King had nothing to do with that, but someone using his name. But there was something even worse, something that always filled her with dread.
"Helios, I..." Aura muttered as she as the bouquet on her hands fell to the ground, her legs shaking a little, "I-I don't..."
It was hard not to think about her past experiences with those kinds of relationships, but for some strange reason they always ended up with her in tears and feelings of betrayal. There was always someone who tried to tame the tomboy that was Aurora Aeternum, someone who was expecting to brag about breaking her defenses, only to leave her feeling broken and sad. Her first instinct was to turn around and leave Helios behind, run as far as she could get to avoid that pain, but that wouldn't have been fair to him, not when he had showed her what was inside his heart. The time she had spend with Helios had been the most exciting she had in a long time, and when the time came for him to remain with the late Queen, she felt a part of her missing, but after she woke up he was there again. Helios was back once more and she was happy to see him, because Helios brought happiness to her heart when she was feeling down about the death of her brother. Perhaps Helios had been a blessing in disguise, one that she was supposed to embrace so she could finally began to heal to wounds on her heart.
"Helios, you have showed me many things too. That even though you suffered at the hands of humanity, you are willing to forgive and lend a helping hand. You brought a sense of happiness when I thought there was only loneliness and dispair after I lost my brother. I am not as great as you make me out to be," Aura said before looking at Helios with a small smile, "but my time with you has taught me about those traits you speak of. You make me feel that I should strive to be better, to help those in need, to explore, to learn. I am in no way perfect, Helios. I'm headstrong, not good to express what I feel, and many other things. I am also mortal, and who knows what this infection will do to me."
Aura put her free hand on Helios's cheek and leaned forwards, kissing Helios's forehead before gently pressing her lips against his for a couple of seconds before backing away.
"But if you are willing to look past that, to look past my many flaws, then I would be more than happy to share that road with you, Helios. Wherever that road may take us."

 

 

 

 

- Caligo - Imperial City: Exire - Golden Palace -

When was the point that everything went wrong? That was the question that many asked themselves around the Overworld. The land below the Sea of Clouds, once coming back to life, was destroyed. How? they did not fully know. Why? the could only guess.

"Should we suppose that the reason for the current whereabouts of the Dark Witch, who was supposed to be under your watch, Judge Magister, is thanks to your own incompetence?" Raishan said coldly, "Raiden of Mystras failed to save the land below the clouds, you lost the Dark Witch and-"

"Thanks for your imput, My lady, but whether it was our fault. Yes, ours, since I am here as well, has nothing to do with you," Sifrei asnwered, "We learned about a large amount of human refugees arriving at Kilkis Seres. Saved by current regent, Yevgeni Malachite. Which should be good news, even when the land below, or the rest of humanity, was lost in the process."

"Master Mond, with the cooperation of a group from Kilkis Seres, manage to find fragments of the weapon used to murder the Frostbearer. The culprit will be found." Rabiyu said calmly.

"The plan has not changed. We will keep helping Raiden while we keep our eyes open for any information regarding the Dark Witch, or the regent of Kilkis Seres." Said Asura, "It is strange that the Prince didn't ascended to the throne, but he must have his reasons. Judge Magister, Master Mond, I trust you to keep helping with the current situation. If anything else happen, please, report back. I am sure my wife will be happy to hear of you when she wakes up. This meeting is now over."

One by one the silhouettes around the room disappeared. Only Rabiyu, Sifrei and the King remained.

"How is the Queen, Your Highness?" Rabiyu asked,

"As well as one could hope, Judge Magister. The bonding ritual took some effort, but she is resting now. I expect her full recovery in a matter of days." Asura snwered while rubbing his eyes, "I will notify both of you when she wakes up from her slumber, but for now, keep focused on the situation over there."

Rabiyu and Sifrei bowed while the silhouettes disappeared. It was time to focus on what was going to be done now that the land below was destroyed. The two Judges wondered what the future hold for both feys and humans, and what would be Raiden's next course of action..

Edited May 4, 2018 by Elrandir