Jump to content
View in the app

A better way to browse. Learn more.

KH13 · for Kingdom Hearts

A full-screen app on your home screen with push notifications, badges and more.

To install this app on iOS and iPadOS
  1. Tap the Share icon in Safari
  2. Scroll the menu and tap Add to Home Screen.
  3. Tap Add in the top-right corner.
To install this app on Android
  1. Tap the 3-dot menu (⋮) in the top-right corner of the browser.
  2. Tap Add to Home screen or Install app.
  3. Confirm by tapping Install.
  • Replies 1.6k
  • Views 139.4k
  • Created
  • Last Reply

Top Posters In This Topic

Most Popular Posts

  • - Odin, using a polymerization card -   Within the fortress of air, Odin stayed still, his hand gripping around the Source of All Life with every bit of determination he can muster.  He could feel t

  • - Lord Raiden and Nihil, currently in Raiden's villa near Mystras -   Within the reading study of the Ostian villa far on the outskirts of the city of Mystras sat Raiden, his legs crossed as he perus

  • Mystics Apprentice
    Mystics Apprentice

    --Depths of Isopolis, unknown figure--   The sound of dripping water was the only one that the man could hear.  At times he thought he'd heard whispers, those of his dying friends, and screams of hi

Posted Images

Featured Replies

- Sifrei Mond - Healers tent -

Watching Mariel was interesting, just like watching her reactions, it made the Archangel wonder what was going through her mind at the moment.

 

"While I may be an Archangel, I do not fall under their jurisdiction, I belong to the North," Sifrei answered calmly, "I am sure that the spot my father left empty is already filled by someone capable enough. If they want to take back the title of "archangel" from me, well, they can have it. If they wish for my life I assure you that I can protect myself. Your story deserves to be known by the higher ups, Mariel, and I want to be there to hear it too."

 

While it was true that he could protect himself Sifrei wondered if that would be enough, it would be one against many, after all.

 

"Do not worry for me, Mariel," The Archangel said as he smiled at the Guardian. "As your friend it is my job to worry about you."


- Rabiyu - At the roof of Raiden's Villa -

It had been some time since Valdra had left, it made Rabiyu feel somewhat restless, it was not every day that her ancient friend and mentor went on walks around the Overworld, she had come with a purpose, but for the love of the Moon and the Stars, she wasn't able to figure out what it was.

 

"Perhaps she wants to rebuild the wall, Rabs, keep you in check so you can't lash out again, yes? The giant lizard knows when a problem will arise, and that problem is you. Forget Raiden and Shiva, YOU are the bigger threat in her eyes! Sure, those two will affect the future of the worlds, but you, you are a time bomb waiting to go off."

 

The High Elf grimaced in pain as a black mist formed behind her, a mist that slowly formed a female silhouette that wrapped her arms around her neck and got closer to her ear, and a smooth silky voice could be heard by the Elf.

 

"Maybe it has to do with those visions that you are having? It is a shame that Mommy dearest wasn't able to teach you to control your gift correctly. It makes me wonder if the Frostbearer will suffer as she takes her last breath, or perhaps it will be Raiden who falls tonight. The ramifications of such event are endless and full of possibilities! The blood spilled could fill Lake Aelinistil with human and fey blood! an irreparable chasm between both races, a bloody war among the survivors of the battle. You'll fit right in, I'm sure of it."

 

Rabiyu clasped her hands together near her chest without opening her eyes, this thing didn't deserved to be looked at, not by her.

Zu'u faan fah hi, O Reg do faal Vulon, Kiir do Felniir.
Zu'u gelok vok hin faan, O Ziist Kiin, ahrk draal,
wah skilaan hin revak fonaar.


It was at this moment that Rabiyu began to feel lightheaded and could hear a ringing in her ears. For the first time in centuries the drawbacks for the excessive use of the language of the dragons finally caught up with her. She knew that the old dragon speech was not meant for any lesser being, not that any fey was a lesser being. Dragons were naturally attuned to the magic of the world, or the different planes of existence, and an elf such as her would not be able to fully harness the potential infused in the ancient words of power of the dragon language. At this point a small trail of blood could be seen under the Elf's nose, a few drops already on the ground.

Vos zey jaaril daar um zey, ol hin viing gekefold us.
Let me seek the truth, as your eyes watch over us.
Let me strike against wickedness, as your talons defend us.

"Ah-ah-ahhh! I wouldn't do that if I were you. You already took your toll in battle and if you keep up then you will be going to sleep for quite some time. Take care of yourself, of me, you are useless to anyone if you go into a coma right now. I will be waiting for you."

 

The misty silhouette floated in front of Rabiyu while caressing her cheek, a soft giggle could be heard before the mist dissipated. It was almost unnoticeable to anyone around the city, or the tents on the outskirts if they were not paying attention, but the barrier that surrounded the city flickered for a few seconds before returning to it's normal appearance. The white haired elf was sweating for the strain that speaking in the ancient dragon tongue put on her body, she was already almost healed from her wounds, but this new affliction would take some more time to take care of.
 

Edited by Elrandir

- Maxis - The Armor - Kilkis Seres encampment - Ivany's tent - 

 

It hasn't been very long since Maxis's conversation with the queen, coming from there he immediately came to Ivany's tent, the Kilkis Seres 'possibly' greatest scientist and general crazy individual had her own tent, which was...deserted. Like usual, nobody cared about Ivany, somewhat lonely the girl was. Must be the mask...or her other mannerisms, strangest thing is that none of the men ever had any bad things to say about her. It was truly strange.

 

Either way, Maxis had been there for some time...having Ivany check out his 'condition'.

 

"So...what do you think?" Maxis asked, sounding curious...and somewhat worried. Awkward Silence followed. Ivany sighed heavily, which did not help Maxis's esteem.

 

"I have no idea Maxis. Even after all those ancient tomes of your kind you gave me, none of them speak of this...nothing. I do not know." Ivany explained.

"..." Maxis was silent, as the atmosphere got more and more tense. 

 

"So...what now?" Ivany spoke. Which Maxis simply turned his head to her. "This substance...its not normal, there is something wrong with me...both on a physical, and psychic level...possibly magical as well." Maxis explained. Which Ivany simply nodded and brought a hand to her chin. 

 

"There is only one person who can help me with this..." Maxis spoke, as the individual in question was immediately brought to mind, it was his fellow armor, Meksis. "He should be able to help...or at least find out what is happening to me..." Maxis spoke...as he began to melt onto his own shadow, literaly vanishing in just a few seconds. Which didn't surprise Ivany...just...disappointed her. As he left he could hear her pouting and being disappointed.

 

 

- Meksis's location - 

 

Meksis would notice Maxis forming around the corner of his vision. leaning his back against a tree, on his way back to the camp. "Meksis...I-" Maxis was interrupted by a sudden twitching and shaking of his upper torso, looking quite surreal, as some of the madness liquid poured out of his faceplate, which he simply whipped off before Meksis could notice the substance, but if Meksis's vision was keen he would notice Maxis twitching. 

 

"I need your help..." Maxis asked his fellow armor. It wasn't all the time Maxis would ask for help...only if the situation was truly dire. 

 

 

- Mystrian side -

 

- Alastor - The Dragon Storm - Raiden's villa -

 

After Alastor disappeared in a bolt of lightning, he went to somewhere private, to bandage his arm to hide the draconic tatoos...which weren't exactly tatoos, but more like draconic runes, bound to him by an ancient  ritual back on his younger days back at his clan. 

 

Alastor had been meditating until he felt...something...something familiar, very familiar in the air, it was...dragon speech, a language thought forgotten in ancient history and only shared by dragons and those fanatical enough to dwell on their history. It...it couldn't be! Just by uttering said dragon words emanated power by itself, one which Alastor was all too acustomed with. 

 

Not only that but he felt some other magical readings as well, which made him extremely curious. He quickly got up and uttered these words: "Siiv Tol Tinvaak." With these words, Alastor casted a basic dragon word spell  that made it easier to trace the location of other words that were being spoken.

 

It didn't take long for Alastor to find the source...and it was a familiar elf, Rabyiu was her name, one he didn't have much interaction with, he came in somewhat late, only able to witness and hear. He stood on the opposite end of the roof in which Rabyiu stood.

 

"I did not know you were versed in the dragon language Fahliil" Alastor added the last word as the dragon meaning of elf. Hoping to catch her attention.

"Had its toll on you, the speech, did it not?" He added.

 

 

 

 

- Henry and Draksis - The Dreaded and the Knight - Mystrian Camp - Alderon's Tent -

 

After some time of self thought and searching, Henry finally came to terms with himself and Ariana, with the help of a...strange lady from the north. Henry had finally decided to move on, and moved on alright.

 

He could not shake the curiosity...was Alderon, the king which he followed to zealously back in his early knight days, here? He had to find out. And find out he did, and he even heard his name being spoken by the man himself from outside. Which prompted him to invade the man's tent the...casual and harmless way, which was just to walk into the tent as the man spoke.

 

"Im glad you remember my name, King." Henry spoke as he walked into the tent. Causing Draksis, the old knight who had remained in the tent, alongside Helios and the king, to stand up in surprise.  "H-Henry?" The old knight spoke. With clear surprise in both his expression and voice.

 

"Hello Draksis." Henry spoke, Before turninjg his head to notice Helios in the same Tent. "Hi Helios." Henry spoke to both men by name, he had no grudges against Draksis, and was on friendly terms with Helios after all. 

 

"Strange world we live in indeed isn't it?" Henry shot a rhetorical question, to Alderon.

 

 

 

- Alex Mars - The Prodigy Knight - With Arthur -

 

Alex was extremely bored, laying down with nothing to do, waiting for the medicine to do its magic and heal his wound, which was almost fully healed, incredible what magic could do. It was amazing. the arrival of a familiar face surprised, and pleased him quite a bit. "Oh Arthur!" Alex spoke, almost shouted in surprise and gretting the fellow soldier, though he tried to stand up but a sharp pain quickly stopped him mid way. 

 

He went on to listen to Arthur's report of the king's status and everything else, Alex was glad everything went semi-smoothly. Though the talk between rulers worried him a bit. "I don't know..." Alex sounded his concerns about the talks, but was stopped as Arthur...thanked him?

 

"Its fine Arthur, you don't need to thank me, we all need a little nudge to get our heads back in order sometimes. Happens to most warriors." Alex replied with a friendly smile.

 

"Im glad you asked, I must say I feel somewhat fine, your arrival here is good, I was extraordinarily bored just laying here." Alex spoke with a chuckle. at least he could laugh without coughing blood. "I don't need anything, not thirsty or hungry, guess the healers took care of that. Just needed someone to talk to." Alex spoke as he struggled, but managed to get himself up to a sitting position, not exactly sitting, but mostly just leaning up with his elbows holding his torso up. 

 

"i've been wondering about the situation back at the world below, how is it going there. You know?" Alex continued.

- Rabiyu - At the roof of Raiden's Villa -

The effect was slowly fading away, Rabiyu's body still felt heavy and the ringing was still there, but a familiar voice caught her attention.
"Indeed I am, Master Alastor," She answered as she wiped the blood from her nose with the back of her glove, "And yes, it has taken its toll."
The Elf stood up and dusted herself off before turning towards Alastor, a smudge of the trail of blood still under her nose all the way towards her chin.
"It is a powerful tool to possess, but as you can see, the drawbacks are quite annoying," she said to Alastor, her face still had the same look of calmness that she always had, "Althought, I am surprised that you know of such thing, Master Alastor. It is even more surprising that you can speak such a language. May I ask how did you come to be in possession of such knowledge?"
Rabiyu was slightly curious about how Alastor knew the ancient dragon speech, and the dangers it represented. She had learned from Valdra herself, and even then she was hesitant to teach her, for the huge strain would be too much for the young elf, but that young elf was reckless and foolish in her youth, and she had a thirst for knowledge of the ancient world.

Edited by Elrandir

- Helios - Side: Mystras Rebellion - Healer Tents - With Aura, King Alderon, Henry & Draksis -
Helios gaze perked up as he heard the familiar voice, smiling. "Henry, hey." Helios said. He watched Henry make himself comfortable, before resting back against his chair. The scent of blood had by this point become common, no longer nauseating his senses. The moans of pain had slowly quieted down either from death or relief. They were all in a waiting game, where the roll of a dice could determine their futures, and they couldn't do a damn thing about it. "I wonder how different it would've been, had our worlds not been separated after the grand war." Helios commented out loud, staring off into the distance, his faze unfocused as he wondered deep into thought. "Our cultures would be very different, I bet. There wouldn't have been a need to explore, because everything was already there. I wonder if I would have been able to meet you, though." Helios pulled his legs up, finding a comfortable spot on his chair. "We just have to make this version worth fighting for." Helios hummed, closing his eyes momentarily. He looked over at Henry, pursing his lips. "Henry, if I may ask. When the war is over, if we win...what will you do?"


- Arthur - Side: Mystras Rebellion - Healer Tents - Visiting Alex -
Arthur chuckled. "Bored you say? What a nightmare! Well, no need to fear, I'll be right here to make sure you don't get bored, or at least until someone kicks me out." Arthur assured, giving Alex a cheerful smile. Once he mentioned the world below, their home, Arthur's hand quickly moved to his chest without much of a thought. "Yeah...I've been wondering too. Soldiers have been brought up, but we haven't really gotten any real word from home, have we?" Arthur asked, lowering his hand with a sigh. He had lost count how long they had been here. Was it weeks, or months? He was grateful to be here, to discover a new world, make new alliances and fight for his kingdom. Yet, now with all of the possibilities ahead of him, at the end of the day, his mind wandered back home. He had so much to tell everyone, and yet he wasn't sure he would be returning alive. "I wish we could send or receive letters. Even just once. I want to know how mother and sister are doing. To let them know I'm ok. How Visco is doing..." Arthur said, smiling softly at her thought. He had flowers to give her after all. He perked his head up, looking over at Alex. "What about you, Alex? I don't mean to pry, but I might as well ask...do you have anyone special waiting for you back home?" Arthur asked, tilting his head to the side at the end of his question.

 

- Alastor - The Storm - Roof of Raiden's villa - 

 

Indeed the toll had been taken, the elf's nose bled, an usual side effect of overuse of the dragon speech. He could see the faint trail of blood coming off her nose. 'Its a powerful tool indeed, one can do a myriad of things with such speech.' Thought as he listened to what else the elf had to say.

 

The elf promptly asked him how he knew of such speech, which he simply scoffed as he looked at her. "Lets say I have some...history with the language." Alastor answered the elf's question, his clan actively sought the knowledge and power of the dragons, it was no surprise he'd know the language as well, but he was not going to just give up his origins like that.

 

"While the speech is dangerous, proper knowledge can be quite useful in spellcasting." Alastor spoke as he held out his left hand as he began to utter the dragon words. "Daal Wah Haas" Which translated into 'Return to Health'. As he uttered these words a gentle gust of wind shot out from behind him, spiraring around his extended arm as it shot towards Rabiyu's direction, gently touching her skin. The elf would find her ailments healing at a much faster rate with this dragon spell, returning her stamina and even getting rid of the ringing in her ears. If Rabyiu's vision was true, she would notice faint glowing markings on Alastor's bandaged arm, some of said markings were even draconic words, but none that she could make out due to the glowing not lasting long enough.

 

"Basic healing spell." Alastor commented. As he narrowed his eyes. "Where did you learn to speak it?" Alastor asked Rabyiu. "I thought the language forgotten." He finished.

 

 

 

- Alex Mars - The Prodigy Knight - 

 

"Good!" Alex replied to Arthur's offer to keep him company and from boredom. Although Alex could notice Arthur's thoughtful state as he mentioned the world below, and how the situation was there. The boy certainly had emotion, and no doubt wished to return to greet his family. That much Alex could easily see.

 

"Me too, allowing the troops to send letters back to their families would boost morale, although it would be costly..." Alex commented. As he sounded surprised as the boy mentioned the princess's name. "Visco?" Alex commented with a smirk. "Oh I see what you're getting at." Alex had a sarcastic smile plastered on his face as he spoke. 

 

"When this is over, if we make it, im sure she'l be delighted to see this world's beauty alongside you." Alex spoke trying to inspire Arthur a bit, albeit he didn't quite know about the relationship of Arthur and Visco. 

 

Alex frowned as he looked to the side, with a sorrowful look on his face. "Yes and no. I have friends I wish I could come in contact with from below, but no such thing as a romantic partner waiting for me to return. I was never good with the ladies, too shy or I always lacked initiative so I never got one interested in me." Alex explained his woman troubles as he sighed, and shrugged.

 

 

- Henry and Draksis - The Dreaded and the Dark Knight - Alderon's tent. -

 

"I doubt we would have met if that were the case."  Henry spoke with a sad expression on his face, which turned into a frown as he found a stool to sit on as he spoke to his feathery friend. "But it would have been better for both worlds, one could benefit from the other greatly, probably would have been a golden age for us." Henry continued.  Henry was doing his best to answer Helio's vision and questions, until the last question came.

 

"What will I do after all of this?" Henry spoke, as a half assed smirk came accross his face. "I have no idea, If Im alive by then, i'l probably roam the land, take in the scenery and travel to my last day." Henry spoke of his possible plans should the war end. He had no family to return to, or anyone from below who wished him alive, he was simply...there. Walking the earth, free. 

 

"I think, the better question is...what will you do after the war Helios?" Henry returned the boy's question at him. "I can see right through you, you have doubts." Henry added. 

Edited by Scrapmaster

- Rabiyu - At the roof of Raiden's Villa -

 

"Oh, do you now?" Rabiyu replied.

 

Rabiyu listened Alastor carefully, if his response was anything to go by then he wasn't going to answer more than he did, which was fine with the elf. A moment later Rabiyu could feel a gentle gust of wind making her feel better than before, her ailments were healing faster, the drawbacks of the speech were subsiding, her nose stopped bleeding. Another thing she noticed was the faint glowing marks on Alastor's arm, ancient draconic if she saw right.

 

"You have my thanks, Master Alastor" she said calmly.

 

And now he wanted to know how she learned ancient High Draconic, she thought for a moment before giving her answer. If Alastor had refused to give a concrete answer then why she had to offer an explanation. In the end, she chose to humor him.

 

"My mentor possesses the knowledge, and in her benevolence she deemed me worthy of earning the right to possess the same knowledge," Rabiyu answer calmly, " I think her words were  "Get out and practice.  I do not want you to disturb my slumber.  And remember the words I taught you... they disarm the magic traps you will activate on your way out.  You will need to pronounce them right if you ever want to come back inside, if you wish to learn more, of course... Be careful, it looks like it will rain..." I just had been under her care for over a week and since I couldn't understand her, unless she was speaking the common tongue, or some form of elvish, she though it would be imperative that I learned High Draconic."

 

Rabiyu remembered she had been staying in Valdra's cave for a time, exploring the countless artifacts she owned, items that possessed powerful and forgotten enchantments, runes and languages unknown to her. It took time and courage for the then young elf to ask the Great Drake if she could teach her, it took a few attempts but in the end Valdra accepted.

 

"In one of my travels I found a city created by the dragons, although strangers are not welcomed, unless they have a strong connection with one of their kind. I gained some amount of knowledge from there too, but it was mostly my mentor who taught me." Rabiyu commented,  "Ancient High Draconic is indeed forgotten, but you can find traces of it if you seek long enough. Dragons, the remaining ones, are adamant to share such knowledge with lesser beings, only if you are worthy of their trust and time they will consider teaching."

Edited by Elrandir

{Mariel: Mystras Camps; Near the Healer's Tent}

Sifrei's logic made sense. While of Archangel blood, he had been born away from the Hosts and served a power even the Seraphim acknowledged, or at least, had when Mariel was last among the Hosts. That plus lack of obvious corruption should buy him stiff and uncomfortable attention, but no more in either direction. There were a few Guardian Archons she could trust to get Sifrei out of harm's way just in case. If they still lived. She deeply hoped her old mentor Barachiel was still alive and in a position to help. He'd know what to do.

While she was considering contingency plans for getting Sifrei away from the Hosts in case things went awry, a part of her was still feeling oddly about this attention from Sifrei and his apparent willingness to risk much to help her. Romantic attachments were not something Guardian Angels dealt with often due to their duties, so Mariel was unsure if what she was feeling was that or something else. Whatever it was, she wished it would stop. It was distracting.

"Ophaniel!" Mariel said in a mock offended tone.

She turned back to the Archangel, smiling in a playful way.

"Saying I can't worry about my friends while you can is a little selfish."

- Sifrei Mond - Healers tent -

Sifrei chuckled a bit while looking away from Mariel while rubbing the back of his head.
"Yeah, I suppose that's true."
He was being selfish, but as for the reason why, he wasn't so sure. It was a strange feeling, one that he prefered to ignore for the time being.
"If it happens, let us watch each other's backs," Sifrei said as he once again looked at Mariel, "We can worry about each other then. In the end let's try and think positive, there is no use in worrying about something that hasn't happened yet, let us focus on the present."
Talking with Mariel had been a nice change of pace after the battle, a change that he welcomed gladly.
 

Edited by Elrandir

- Meksis, the Chaperone, Armour of Light - Outside the Kilkis Campgrounds with Maxis -

 

The whispers of his infection ceased for now, but that was no surprise to Meksis, for it had stayed quiet a long time prior to now. This thing delighted in taunting him it seemed, but only at the right times...if that wasn't enough proof that it could think, Meksis didn't know what else was. What did surprise him however, was the sudden appearance of his brother in armour: Maxis, who he initially was pleased to see, but after catching him twitching in an unexpected and freaky manner, he quickly became concerned as Maxis spoke four words. Four words Meksis never hoped to hear from his old friend.

 

"I need your help..."

 

Sighing deeply, Meksis walked over to the tree Maxis was leaning against prior to his spasm, his walk was an unfaltering approach, but inside Meksis dreaded what he was about to hear about his friends ailment as he placed a hand upon his shoulder in greeting before speaking. "Tell me what's wrong, Maxis...please. I saw you twitching before you asked, that's not supposed to happen." Meksis requested, his tone a solemn one with no effort to hide it. He had hoped nothing was terribly wrong with him, but he was fooling himself if he believed that to be true, for Maxis never asks for help, especially not like this, unless he truly needed it.

Jynn Venas-Abode near Mystras

 

Jynn gets out of bed and heads over to his office. Shutting the door behind him, he sits in his chair. It was quiet. He was almost emotionless, as everything is taking a turn down a awful road. This knowledge of Shiva's lies, doubled with his dark powers now. At least the soldiers from the Mystras alliance were the only ones to see it, but the chances of everyone spreading the word of Jynn's powers is incredibly likely now. Would everyone fear him from this knowledge? He gets up almost as soon as he sits, and makes his way outside. One of the guards asked about his condition. "Your highness, are you alright?" Jynn pauses. "Quite......... But I'm afraid things are not looking good for me besides my health........" He continues walking out the front door. It was chilly. The snow blanketed the entire mountain range. Putting his hands in his pockets, he stares off into the distance.

- Helios - Side: Mystras Rebellion - Healer Tents - With Aura, King Alderon, Henry & Draksis -
Helios pursed his lips, humming at Henry. "You're correct. I'm...heavily conflicted. By definition, and by analyzing my choices, I don't belong in neither world do I?" Helios asked, his eyes narrowing in thought. He took a deep breath and looked up at Henry. "I want...I wish to help rebuild. To help fix the infertile lands of the world below to become fertile again. To help the world above open its eyes to humanity below. To tell the story of my friends, so that both worlds may know their names and contributions, regardless of the outcome. Our choices might as well have helped to create this war. I will make it worth in the very end, regardless how many lifetimes it takes me." Helios smiled softly, looking up at Henry. "I want to help the worlds I have come to love as my own. Share stories between the two. Spread knowledge to help both. Hell, I may even get to write that book I always wanted to write. My wishes, my ideas are idealistic I guess. They might as well be fantasy in such a reality. But...I am alive, so there's no harm in me trying, right?" Helios asked, chuckling to himself as he scratched his cheek. The world would keep turning, and time would wait for no one. Regardless of which side wins, of what the outcome becomes, he would make sure that history never forgot. Not again.

- Arthur - Side: Mystras Rebellion - Healer Tents - Visiting Alex -

Arthur listened to Alex, his face flushing as he saw the smirk on Alex's face once he mentioned Visco. "W-Wipe that smirk off your face!" Arthur insisted. Arthur would be Arthur. He puffed his cheeks, looking away momentarily before looking back at Alex as he admitted that he indeed had people waiting for him below, just not romantically. "Well, they're waiting for you still. You have to make sure you return to them alive so you can brag of all of your achievements and all you have done so far in a whole new world." Arthur insisted, smirking as he looked over at Alex. "Besides, if you do survive, once you return I'm sure you'll have lots of ladies chasing after you. A veteran of a war against a whole new world and species? They'll flock to you like moths to a very handsome flame!" Arthur assured, saying it in a rather dramatic matter in hopes of getting some good emotions out of Alex, despite his injured state. He then relaxed, gently getting a hand on Alex's shoulder. "But for now, let's focus on getting out of here alive, yes?" Arthur offered, smiling softly. He pondered on whether he should tell him that he met his father, but he went against it. Maybe after the war, when there wasn't that much tension and one could casually say 'oh by the way my father turns out to be a lightning doggo'.
 

-Fire Eclaire - Awakening-

 

"SHIVA!"

 

The sound of her frantic scream echoed. The Retainer of Shiva, the warrior Eclaire, shot up, then yelped in pain. She was in her room, panting. Ninety percent of her brain frantically thought of Shiva, and the other ten percent wondered who undressed her. Some shuffling was heard, but she held the door closed, hand shaking.

"N-No. I'm okay." The sound was of a maid...she could feel it...Shiva was...gone.

Far away. No where near.

 

She groaned in pain and got out of the bed. Okay, not fully undressed. Stumbling towards the bathroom, she held herself against the sink, then looked down. Filling the sink, she splashed water on her face and slowly leaned against the nearest wall. Her normal clothing flashed into existence, and she began heading for the door. She had released her telekinetic hold already, and a maid was there, looking nervous.

"Mila-"

"Where is Shiva."

"Sh- The Queen? I...I do not know. Maybe m-"

"She is not here. i can't...feel her..." She suddenly grasped the woman for support. "Take me...to her chambers..."

"MILADY!?"

Eclaire looked at her, scowling. "I did not stutter. I paused."

 

The maid just shook, unsure of what was going on. But...she was ordered. Getting Eclaire against her, she began helping the rose pink-haired woman out and towards the Queen's Chambers...well, the door at least.

- Maxis - The Manic Armor - Outside of Kilkis Campgrounds with Meksis -

 

 

Maxis sighed, actualy in relief, Meksis had caught on he needed help, which sped things up somewhat. Maxis stared off into the distance for a few seconds. before turning to Meksis. "I'l...cut to the chase..." Maxis spoke, softly, for once. 

 

Maxis turned fully towards Meksis and...grabbed his own left hand with his opposite and ripped it off himself, since it was an armor, he could do that willingly and without problems, but what Meksis would probably not expect would be the black and white liquid oozing off the hand, forming a line between it and its place in Maxis's arm, on further analysis Meksis could see that this energy was not quite...normal...in fact none of it felt normal at all.

 

"This...has been leaking off me. Something I do not know what it is, and when I look into a mirror...or in my calm moments, I feel a presence in the back of my mind...not talking, just...observing me." Maxis explained his situation, now reataching his hand back. "I've never felt this before, and I know something is wrong with me, something is wrong with my very soul and mind, I know that much." Maxis continued.

 

"Which is why I need you Meksis...you are the only armor I can trust with this, remember the mental link we shared when we carried out our duty in ancient times? I need you to link with me again...but instead of just linking I need you to dive right into my spirit's subconciouss...please..." Maxis spoke, extending a hand towards Meksis. Holding out an open hand.

 

"I am aware of the danger you might run while in there, the abilities you have might not even work there, I won't blame you if you decide not to." Maxis spoke, sounding melancholy and...legitimately scared. Soft lines of madness liquid could be seen seeping from his hand, he had just attached. And also some was leaking from his helmet's eye areas as well.

 

 

- Henry - The Dreaded - With Helios in Alderon's tent -

 

 

 

"I thought I told you not to blame yourself for what happened in the past, this was was long overdue, and it would have happened regardless." Henry tried to console Helios, he knew the boy still blamed himself for his past actions, and Henry hated that, he knew how guilt could eat away at a person and drive them to do...fanatical things. He was hoping to keep Helios out of that. Thankfully, much to his surprise Helios seemed to have matured somewhat between their last meeting and now. 

 

Helios spoke of his objective and what he wishes to do once all is over. "I ever tell you once that every great achievement was only achieved with a certain ammount of idealism?" Henry smirked at Helios. "Ideals are what defines a movement, there is nothing wrong with having ones and following them through. For example if it wasn't for my idealism I wouldn't have broken you out of Sondon." Henry spoke, shooting a glance at Alderon. Whom may or may not have been sleeping. 

 

"You speak of a noble goal, and i'l support you after this is all over. You can even travel with me if you wish, traveling is good for the creativity of one's mind." Henry spoke, before shrugging.  "Then again you can fly so that might not be needed." He said with a sarcastic smirk.

 

 

 

- Alex Marz - The Prodigy Knight -

 

"I doubt it, they'l flock to my fellow dark knights, that is for sure. I doubt one would go for me personally." Alex admited with a sigh, he didn't really meant what he said, just spoke the first thing that came to his mind. Which was modesty and self deprecating of course. Guess the morale was hitting him somehow.

 

"That is if im not debilitated by the wound I took. May have healed fully but my  body suffered quite a shock and infection because there was no immediate treatment, even with your curative." Alex spoke, clutching his side. "Its not easy being human against giant beasts and Magical Warriors, i'l say that much. Kinda wished I could throw magic but alas" Alex spoke, actualy sarcastically and shrugged as some moments of silence filled the air.

 

"Hey Arthur, you ever wondered about Visco's affliction? There is absolutely no way one could look like she does, no offense. The scientists never found an answer to that..." Alex spoke, now with the usual conspiracy theory. "You we'l find an answer to that here?" Alex spoke, legitimately curious. Before looking around, "Raiden has a library...doesn't he?" Alex spoke.

 

 

 

- Typhon - The Bugman Mk.3 - Jynn's abode -

 

"Top of the morning Princy." Jynn would hear the bugged voice of Typhon, who was...right beside him, leaning against the side of the front door. He had been there for some time, he figured a break in would sound suspicious after the commotion that was having a pegasus, followed by a catboy with an unconciouss Jynn on top. Would have probably caused trouble for him, and he did not want anymore trouble.

 

Typhon's appearance was different...he had more...metalic and glowing parts in his exoskeleton, followed by a thick layer of fleshy substance in between the metalic weaves. "How are you feeling? and why are you staring off into the distance like you are longing for something." Typhon asked, nonchalantly and with a dry tone. 

 

"How's the war?" Typhon finished.

 

 

EnUnNec.png

 

 

 

 

 

 

- Alastor - The Storm - Raiden's villa Roof -

 

Alastor simply nodded as the elf thanked him for the healing as she began to speak of her story with the language, she was hiding things from him, of that it was obvious, then again, he refused to disclose his origins so it was only fair.

 

"You have a pretty open mentor, to let you wander and practice by yourself while they...slumbered." Alastor spoke, slowly catching on to something, folding his arms. He listened intently as Rabiyu continued to speak about it, showing surprise, and interest at the mention of a dragon city. 

 

"I have heard of this city, far into the reaches of this world, no human, fey or even elves had ever set foot inside. I am surprised that you know of it, and has been there before." Alastor spoke plainly, but with total honesty. 

 

"It seems like both our means of learning the language were different, you learned through interaction with dragons, while I learned through fighting said creatures and its sub species, being taught by the ancient masters around the world." Alastor made a clever lie at the end, in truth he learned all of his draconic from his grimoire, passed down to him from the elder of his clan, before he left on his pilgrimage to claim 'That which can bring down the sky' For them. Something he had never found.

 

He had given up on the pilgrimage long ago. But after hearing of a city of dragons...it piqued his interest again. He had tried to forget his origins and try to not use draconic ever again, but after the battle against Thane and Nergal, he was forced to use it to survive. He learned that he was limiting himself by not using it...and he has been in thought ever since.

Edited by Scrapmaster

 

 

 

- Helios - Side: Mystras Rebellion - Healer Tents - With Aura, King Alderon, Henry & Draksis -
Helios listened to Henry, smiling to hear he agreed with his ideas. He brightened up at the suggestion of traveling together once it was all over, his pupils shifting at the thought of it. "That sounds wonderful to me! Flying is faster, but on foot...in the longer roads, there is much to learn and admire. I...I would like that very much." Helios admitted, shifting his feet momentarily. The thought of adventure always appealed to him. To just be free and explore. To learn and teach. To enjoy life that way. To be deprived of that hurt him more than he could have imagined it, leaving scars that would never leave. It was the original plan for himself long ago. Maybe after it all ends, it could continue. "Then, as we travel, I can take the chance to teach you how to fly along the way. That way, we can fly together." Helios said cheerfully, though he couldn't tell himself if he was joking or genuinely interested in teaching Henry how to fly. He figured, that they would sort that out too when the time came to it. He smiled softly once more, resting his head against the chair as he faced Henry. He was tired, the adrenaline of war slowly wearing off along with the pain of just...well, everything. "I am glad you guys came for me that day. I honestly thought that I had lost everything to humanity, and that I would not be able to return. But...you taught me what it was that made me fall in love humanity all over again. For that, I can never thank you guys enough. But I will try." Helios said, extending his arm at Henry while offering his pinky finger. "Let's make a promise to be friends, Henry. For eternity and beyond. So when our journey here ends, we may meet in the next one."

- Arthur - Side: Mystras Rebellion - Healer Tents - Visiting Alex -

Arthur chuckled with Alex, listening to his woes. "The Black Knights are pretty popular, aren't they?" He hummed. "At least they offered us enchanted weapons. Those helped more than I thought they would." Arthur said, patting the sword on his hip. However, his expression softened as Alex wondered about Visco's sickness. "Yes, I have, but never out loud. I've even heard that this entire expedition was for the chance of finding a cure for her. I believed in that too." Arthur admitted, pursing his lips. He only knew of the superficial effects that the curse left on the princess. The King was rather strict about keeping such rumors under wraps, and the guards even more so to keep the princess from hearing them herself. Whether any of the rumors he had heard were truth or fiction, one thing was clear; it was going to kill her unless a cure was found. At the mention of the library, Arthur's eyes perked up in interest, his eyes widening. "He...he does." Arthur said. His eyes quickly glanced around them, before looking back at Alex. They were in a pause. Everyone was scattered on and about and worried about the next steps of the while while their leaders healed up and convened. They had an opportunity. To find a cure, to save Visco's life, to finally cure her-! "No one would even notice..." Arthur confirmed, about to turn on his heel before stopping. He quickly returned his attention to Alex, hurrying to his side. "Can you even stand, Alex?" Arthur asked, looking at his injuries. "...or will you cover for me?"

- Rabiyu - At the roof of Raiden's Villa -

 

"My mentor is special, if one would dare to call her as such," Rabiyu said to Alastor, "she would say that she has only seen quite a lot in her lifetime, of course."

 

It was a little complicated to discern Alastor's emotions, but Rabiyu could distinguish small hints of surprise, interest, and curiosity coming from his voice, which she found not that surprising. Dragons were ancient and mythical creatures, creatures that even the youngest of fey, or human, if what Valdra had told her, would be amazed by their mysterious nature.

 

"Believe me, Master Alastor, trying to find this city with just a couple of clues was an... interesting experience," Rabiyu said calmly, "It took me years to find a single hint of such a place. My mentor thought it would be good for training."

 

The city had many names, all of which were correct since the city had no name that a fey could pronounce. Most of the time dragons were in humanoid shape, it was easier to move that way, but if one choose to leave, they reverted back to their true forms. The Elf was more surprised to learn that Alastor had fought dragons before, which was not impossible, just, somewhat difficult, but something was bugging the Elf on the back of her mind, she took it as an effect of what happened, so she stopped that particular train of thought.

 

"I have known a few individuals who fought against dragons and earned their respect and friendship," she said while looking at Alastor, "from what I was told, in the past a few of them offered an egg of their offspring to such warriors to raise their newborn as companions and friends, often being allowed to use them as a mount, of course, with the passing of the centuries the chances of that happening dwindled and came to a stop, or so I last heard."

Edited by Elrandir

Jynn Venas-Abode near Mystras with Typhon

 

It appears someone was aware of Jynn's secret hideout, but it wasn't someone that Jynn considers a threat. Jynn was quick to identify the individual. It was the cyph that saved Bherna from the insane punisher a few weeks back. His appearance was different, but the aura was the same. He asks about the prince's condition and why he's seemingly staring off into the distance. "I'm fine......... I guess." Jynn stares back at the mountain range. "I....... I don't really want to talk about it. It's kind of a personal thing, you know?" The cyph then asks about the war. Jynn shrugs. "I don't know. To be honest, I don't think any outcome from this war will be good, especially since I.... well, you know....." Jynn pauses once again. He doesn't recall thanking Typhon for his actions a few weeks ago. Jynn turns towards him. "I don't think I ever thanked you for saving my daughter's life. You have my deepest gratitude........... Uh............ I think I never been informed about your name."

  • Author

It was a quarter till midnight and all was silent along Lake Kresnik.  Shiva emerged from the thicket, and wasn't surprised in the least to find Raiden already by the water's edge.  The man always did have a thing for punctuality, and was somehow incredibly fast. Like lightning.

 

She took several steps closer without saying a word, her combat boots silent on the blades of grass.  Her expression was that of ice: unreadable and emotionless.

 

"I am glad that you came," she said at last, breaking the silence of the late night.  "And alone, at that.  You have my thanks, Odin."

 

Raiden glanced behind him, the curtain of quiet being ripped asunder by his expected guest.  The air took a colder form of itself, as could be anticipated from the presence of the ice queen, and he turned to face her full on.

 

"And you have my thanks, Shiva," he replied, glancing into the distance in a final search of others.  A search magic was enough, but it was always relieving to view it with his own eyes.  "You have not brought your own allies in a differing manner of ending this conflict.  I am glad you kept your side of the bargain told to my angelic friend."

 

He took a few steps closer as well and stopped, allowing a reasonable distance between the two rulers, but something twisted his head back to the quiescent lake.  The serenity, the raw beauty of such a landscape -- it brought back blessed memories of a relationship between past versions of him and her that never could have panned out.  Why could it not have worked?  He often asked that to himself, and once to her, but now they both have aged and went their separate paths only to come across each other again.  Never again would he prompt such a question to her, for the sake of future, less romantic relations.

 

"Shall we begin the parley of a ceasefire?  Too much blood has been shed of my people, of your people, and of those peoples' below.  War, no matter how the poets and children romanticise it, is an ugly thing impossible for any sane person to adore."

 

Shiva clasped her hands in front of her, gaze unmoved from Raiden's.  "I keep my word," she told him firmly, as though stating something more than the obvious.

 

There was something curious about Raiden and the way that he watched the lake, as though lost in thought.  As much as Shiva desired to pry, she felt that the circumstances didn't allow it.  She opened her mouth to break the silence, though Raiden already managed to beat her to it upon mentioning their parley. For the first time her gaze faltered, her hands falling limply to her sides.

 

"Yes . . . .  After today I realized something, perhaps something I should've realized from the start.  One of us is going to end up getting what we want, while the other will ultimately lose and suffer the consequences.  The difference between settling matters among ourselves or on the battlefield is the number of lives lost, and I would like to cut the losses of my people and be the true ruler that they deserve."

 

WIth that Shiva unsheathed her silver sword, and in a quick motion had the tip of its blade pointing at her beloved.  "I challenge you, Lord Raiden of Mystras, to a duel.  The victor will walk away with what they desire, or at least from a political standpoint.  Besides"--she brushed her braid over her shoulder, gaze shifting to the lake--"we both know that you cannot truly accomplish what you desire without my death, so this should be a win-win for you."

 

Raiden casually looked down at the bared sword and breathed out a light scoff.  While proud of her resoluteness, she was far too eager to settle matters in a militaristic manner and he in a passive manner.  Over the course of millennia, they were too far different, and yet he clung to hope -- hope that there was a way to end this without death.  When he approached Reginald Heathertoes regarding the truth of the barrier, that codger of a druid told him the truth and that he believed that there was a way to undo what was done to Shiva.  As untrustworthy as the hippie druid was, Raiden was assured he was the secret to successful peace with all involved parties.  If only he had the centuries to fulfill all of his wishes, but the world below was dying at a much faster rate than he anticipated.  Something had to be done, and he had to do it.

 

"Queen Shiva," he uttered, closing his eyes in meditation before opening them anew to focus on the queen, "your death is what I desire the least.  I am as a child:  selfish.  I want it all.  I desire peace and prosperity to all worlds.  I desire all to live a golden life.  I desire you to live without pain and without want.  For that reason and more, I respectfully decline your duel in favour of dialogue."

 

The words came out more difficultly than he originally assumed.  Honour was ingrained within him over the course of thousands of years, and a wave of self-loathing rippled across him at the thought of casting aside a duel.

 

"It is fitting," he started up again, "that we are eidolons.  One definition of the word is that we are apparitions, as is fitting for our pallor and our haunting memories, but there is another definition lesser known.  Eidolons are ideals, and we, dear Shiva, are embodiment of that.  Your father Alexander, my father, you, me . . . our son, Jynn -- we all have a unique sense of purpose, our own individual goals from which we can never back down.  It is our similar ideals that drew us together like entwining threads, and it is our ideals which separated us and led us to our current situation, and I would rather not let our ideals leave one dead here!"

 

He drew his blade with two-handed finesse and shoved it into the ground to his left, the surge of stored electricity emitting a loud pop and snarl.  With that, he left it in the ground and migrated to his right and Shiva's left, eyes never leaving hers.

 

"How do you reply?" he questioned in finality.

 

A sigh escaped her as she lowered her blade, her rigid movements making it appear as though the sword were heavier than it was.  "There is no honor in striking an unarmed man," she murmured through gritted teeth.  "However, I believe our very inability to negotiate is what brought us to where we are today.  Yes, we are both eidolons, and yes: we are very much set in our ways.  We can try to talk, but I offer no promises that either of us shall be pleased with the end result."

 

She swept back a lock of ice-blue hair with one fluid motion, failing to keep it in place as it simply fell again.  "The humans cannot be trusted.  Just looking at our history should be able to tell you this.  It is saddening that their world must end, but we also must think about our own preservation.  Your human king, I hear, carries an even greater threat than just his mere presence alone: he brings the witch Midnea, the one we had worked so hard to banish all of those years ago.  Your king is but her pawn, and ultimately will be discarded once she gathers what she desires.  I think we both know what sort of chaos will ensue if she reclaims her kingdom and servants.  I would like to think we have the power to restrain her as we once had, but not without cooperation from one another.

 

"I am no risk-taker, Odin.  I used to be, but the cost of which was devastating and I have since learned the assured path is by far the safest.  I understand that you desire it all, but don't you see that there is a point where decisions must be made, as difficult and painful as they must be?"

 

Raiden paced, at first in quick motions, and after the leave of Shiva's sword tip at a slower gait.  He understood every word, having the full story of all discussed, but like Shiva said chances were that neither would be pleased in the end, whether or not there were an agreement.


"Yes, sometimes decisions must be made, but they need not be decided immediately.  While this is the safer path for one, you are doing what is right for one's own than all.  As hardships do parse a people in unity, hardships unite a people parsed, and in this time of crisis for the world below everyone must be involved.  Sad to say, the witch Midnea is a blot on my plans and may be using the king for reentry, but I have her under continuous surveillance.  She would not be able to lift a finger without my knowledge.  My network of spies stretches wide and sees much."

 

His thoughts traced back to Rabiyu and her rune.  Such a useful tool, that rune, and how he wished he could tap into its use himself to see what the fallen individual was doing right now.  Instead, he had to wait to hear a report.  Shiva's armies were more important right now for Rabiyu to keep in attentive observation.

 

"History, my dear Shiva," continued Raiden, "must change.  We cannot continue to doom a world to preserve another, especially a smaller one.  Our plan can continue.  A hole can be kept open to supply vital magic to the world below.  Diplomats can be issued, connections restored for the first time in millennia!  Peace between once rivalling nations, and betterment amongst us all.  Your precious life need not be forfeit.

 

"I admit the road will be bumpy, and I admit change will be needed, but I need your support in order to have this dream -- our shared dream of peace -- yield the most bountiful fruit."

 

Shiva's eyes narrowed at Raiden's confidence in containing Midnea, and she almost wanted to scoff but had enough self restraint to refrain from doing so.

 

"This is the witch that threatened our nation not so long ago, Raiden.  Regardless of how skilled your spies are, she will find a way.  She was resourceful enough to return, and I have no doubt that she will manage some kind of forbidden magic to get her way.  Do not underestimate her."

 

Shiva frowned, folding her arms across her chest.  "In fact, who is watching her now, while all of your closest and most trusted allies are here with you?  She may be using this war as a decoy, which wouldn't surprise me in the slightest.  It's times like these that you are too trusting, Raiden.  The world isn't as simple as we wish for it to be, or as kind and generous."

 

He did, however, speak a truth that she had recognized long ago, but didn't have the heart to embrace.  Encompassing Raiden's ideas of peace and unity meant betraying the ideals and dedication of her late father.  Her own personal opinion was one which she cast aside long ago, for she felt that being queen meant that only her people mattered, not the desires and wishes of her own heart.

 

"If I were younger and not queen you know that I would support you," she murmured, voice barely above a whisper.  "But that is not the case.  I have been entrusted to maintaining the peace of the Overworld for the past two millennia, and thus far we have had the most quiet era in the history of our nation.  What you speak of is a massive risk to the progress that has been made, and I must ask you: is it really worth it?  There will be those who transgress our generosity, that take advantage of the open barrier and try to exploit us, our resources, and our very lives.  If you plan to do what it is you seek, I do hope that you have already thought of the complications that will arise, and what you will do to keep them at bay."

 

"The witch, while once powerful, had been stripped of her power for the past several years and starved of magic like the humans.  It will take far longer for her to regain her abilities than a few weeks," chided the Mystran ruler.  "Although, I do see your point.  I trust much, and my most trusted served on the battlefield, but do not think I have wholly relaxed my efforts.  Feints within feints within feints -- that is what my spy network encompasses, and not even the genius the witch displays can silence whatever actions she performs.

 

"And 'is it really worth it,' you ask?  I say yes.  A bad seed rests in every apple which needs correction or stamping out, and transgressors will always exist.  Should we plan ahead, however, the risk is minimal or even nonexistent.  Perhaps a strong police and a strong government which act like parents supervising children would be necessary.  Perhaps equality of resources, and reclamation of the resources below would be enough for all.  And the freedom we hoped for ourselves and others?  Under our leadership and of those beyond our nation, this will continue in the same or similar manner as you currently provide.

 

"What speaks beyond words, however, is the will to put these things into action and make it real.  These actions we now perform, for or against what I speak, will be felt by the world below in ripples for generations to come.  Surely you see this.  This is a window of change, to improve the world below as well as above than have both live in stagnancy and ignorance."

 

The queen wasn't particularly convinced that Midnea was no longer a threat, but she didn't proceed to push the issue further.  Over the course of the ages there would be many more like her that would threaten the Overworld, and that needed to be her prime focus, regardless of how much she loathed the witch that he housed.

 

Strong governments and borders . . . .  These things wouldn't prove wholly effective against the evils that could arise from the humans, but it did offer some assurances.  There was indeed a chance that both worlds could prosper with the right people in power and the proper borders in place.  On the flipside, there was always the chance that there would be those who would destroy the peace and open war, but what was life without some amount of risk?

 

Shiva bit her lip as she weighed out Raiden's words, her own contemplations swirling in her head.  "How can I let my father down, Odin?" she asked weakly.  "And my people?  They gave up their lives today, for nothing?  Suppose that we could work out a new line of defense and protection, what would all of the people say?  They could revolt, riot, start war among themselves."  The queen shook her head.  "There is just no peaceful way to end this, truly.  Is there?"

 

Raiden mulled over his next words carefully, his arms folded in front of him as he stood in thought.

 

"Both our populaces have fought and died for worthwhile causes," he uttered finally.  "For some it was justice, and for others it was peace.  I believe merging these two goals in our ceasefire would pacify both sides of the conflict, and better integrate the worlds."

 

Raiden turned his head, words seemingly stuck in his throat before he continued.

 

"The deaths of so many . . . are regrettable both in planning and in hindsight, but the pain of this loss will make the living grow and not perform the same mistakes.  To the banners of a new start, people will rally, and the slow hatred of fey towards mankind will, I greatly hope, melt away over time.  The road will be difficult, but what do you think your father would say if he saw the end result, two age-old enemies working alongside each other in a new golden age of peace and prosperity?"

 

 

Shiva glanced up at him, the conflict within her heart written on her face as plain as day.  "If it worked," she started slowly.  "If what you say will truly bring peace to both worlds, surely he would be proud . . . wouldn't he?  That we accomplished something that even he could not?"

 

For some reason this thought never occurred to the queen.  All she could envision was her father's disappointment at her failure to maintain the peace that he painstakingly brought to their world; never did she imagine that she could use this peace for the betterment of both nations.

 

And still, what Raiden proffered held great risk.  Peace was not assured, and this would certainly not be the last battle they fought as long as evil resided in the universe.

 

"If we do this, I will need to have a fair say in our border protection," Shiva stated firmly.  "I will not be generous in allowing the humans entry to our world, but I suppose we can make do without the barrier, provided that you think you've found a way with this hippie?"

 

Raiden chuckled in an agreeable manner and answered, "Should the druid find the way to weaken or dissolve the barrier, this should be applicable.  Mind you, I do not expect change to happen suddenly, but if the barrier drops and peace reigns supreme on both worlds, well . . . I would say that I would be proud of our handiwork, and maybe your father Alexander would too, if he looks down at us from the world beyond."

 

The ruler of Mystras smiled up at the queen and held outstretched toward her his right hand.

 

"I cannot promise lack of hardship, as in the days ahead things will be trying on the both of us and countless others, but I am willing to attempt it.  What I can promise is that all of my ambition, all of my amassed knowledge, I will devote to reuniting the worlds hereon."

 

For a moment Shiva stared at Raiden's extended hand, heart beating furiously in her chest.  There wasn't enough time, she felt, to make a proper decision; too many lives had already been lost, and more would follow shortly if she were to refuse him.  The world that Raiden spoke of was what she desired, and, had she been younger, she would've embraced his ideals without a second thought.

 

Maxis' words echoed through Shiva's mind, recalling their conversation that the queen must follow her heart.  For so long she had followed the path that her father ordained, but her own?  She had cast that aside long ago, though Shiva couldn't help wondering what her own rule, with her own decisions, would look like?  What kind of world would they live in?  Could it possibly be better?

 

The courageous, hopeful, and perhaps foolish side of her accepted Raiden's outstretched hand, grasping it firmly and rubbing her thumb across his knuckles.

 

"This is what we should've done long ago."

 

As he approached in the shadows, sight unseen, another scent quickly perked the sinuses of Nergal, though he didn't need to dwell upon it as his eyes all but confirmed his initial suspicions: Lord Raiden was here and he was talking with the Queen. How mundane...killing him would be just another chore, nothing compared to what he had in mind for Shiva. To his surprise, despite their feuding and the war only just beginning, Shiva had accepted his hand and by extension, Raiden's offer of peace. Never in a thousand years had he seen such a quick resolution.

 

Though a thousand more would pass before Nergal would allow such a disgrace to take place and defile the pages of history. And so, from the darkness, he called out:

 

"Such optimistic plans for the future of this world, I hear! Consolation for those already winded by the encroaching march of war, you would bring an end to the bloodshed. And ohh, such history you share! Shiva...and Odin, I hear?" Lord Raiden's true name revealed, one he knew all too well...Odin. To think he became the Lord of Mystras after his apparent disappearance was astounding indeed to Nergal, as his unnatural speed allowed him to traverse the shadows without being noticed.

 

 

Nergal however, could not sense the presence of Soren Monroe, who had melded with the Shadows themselves, his aura masked and his power hidden away, though Soren too was at a disadvantage, being unable to notice Nergal until he had called out. Prior to then however, he was able to get closer to the scene, unseen, yet present, as he heard Lord Raiden's true name uttered and potential peace brokered between the two rulers...it was enough to dispel his initial fears; the uncertainty that had brought him here in the first place, to ensure Shiva's safety.

 

Unfortunately, Nergal's words did nothing to help Soren locate him and he didn't feel as if he could reveal himself to Shiva or Odin, as to not compromise what little integrity he had left.

 

 

"Too bad such peace is not so easily gained. There will be no relief, no consolation for the damned. No happy end to the tale, the story that binds the two of you together..." Nergal's words echoed around the rulers, as he finally assumed a hidden position and remained there...behind Queen Shiva, ready to lunge. "By the time I'm through with the Overworld...there will be nothing left of your legacy. Just an entrapping, suffocating force all around you, only describable with one word and one word alone..."

 

"Just one word..."

 

From then, like a force of nature, Nergal burst forth from the darkness, Zeus's Dagger in his right hand as he reached toward Shiva with his left, the moment he had a grasp upon her shoulder, he plunged his dagger downwards, stabbing the Queen in the back of the shoulder. Her pain from there only spurred Nergal on, as he would fight back any attempt to retaliate with a counter by his free hand and leaving another stab wound in her abdomen, slicing with the edge multiple times across her chest, thrusting it into her collar, slashing her face and restraining her by the head as he laid down the coup de grace and embedded the blade deep between her shoulder and collar, allowing the energies of the Feyslayer to course through her body, before rotating his hand to take hold of the blade properly and finally remove it from her.

 

"That word, is death." His satisfaction turned to disgust upon his face as he simply let Shiva down to the ground with a dismissive shove, just to watch her crumple down, to watch her die.

 

Shiva's eyes grew wide as the hand from behind gripped her shoulder, nearly spontaneously paired with the sharp edge of Zeus' Dagger tearing into her flesh.  All that time, her gaze never left Raiden, and it wasn't until Nergal removed the blade that her hand slipped from his.  She fell to the ground in a heap, strangely silent despite her grave wounds.

 

"I--have failed . . . " she rasped, form shaking uncontrollably underneath the blades of grass.  "Odin . . . forgive me."

 

Time seemed to slow to Raiden as he locked up and conjured an electrically-forged blade in his hand, eyes darting hither and thither in search of the voice in the dark.  He expected himself to be the target, but when Shiva was pierced he looked toward her with mouth hanging.  A thousand words of anguish were not enough to express his horror at the scene.  This was not supposed to happen.  Peace was supposed to prevail over war!  Moreover, the love of his life was spread into a growing pool of blood, and the fiendish assassin paused in revelry and an odd disapproval at her fall from the state of alive to a state of dying.

 

"You are the one," he uttered in hate-filled breaths, narrowed eyes sparking to life as they drew towards Nergal, "that will die, hagspawn, but not immediately.  Torment would be like a pinprick compared to what awaits you for the next two hundred years."

 

A surge of popping electricity would rush toward Nergal as Raiden crushed his electric dagger and blew the energy toward Nergal in a spreading cone.  Should Nergal dodge it or not, it did not matter.  The Lord of Mystras would span the gap between his sword and Shiva and brandish it with ill-boding white lightning, staring at the foul assassin with a broiling ire.

 

White lightning was in itself a menacing variant of electric magic.  The snarling strands carried great power, and made a strong weapon or armour at the cost of a great expense of mana.  For Shiva, though, this was worth it.

 

(And there you have it!  The aqua was written by me, purple Vaude, and green Kunivas.  Thank you all for waiting this long!)

 


The sun rose what seemed a different color that day.  Its vibrance dulled, its color deeper, illuminating not quite as brightly as it once had.  The air went still, and the animals of the Overworld went into hiding.  Flowers upon the ground shriveled and died within seconds.  Something was amiss, though very few knew what that precisely was.

 

The Overworld had lost a monarch that day, a figure who sought peace and order throughout the nation.  Word spread rapidly over the course of the morning, though the cause of her death was still shrouded in mystery.  It appeared that Queen Shiva had been murdered, though by whom would depend on whom you spoke to.  Some claim that Lord Raiden broke his promise and killed the woman upon their meeting, whereas others claim that it was the sentinel Soren, who had already once betrayed Shiva and was potentially still in league with Mystras.  Others claim that a mysterious man clad in the shadows murdered their beloved queen.  What story you believe is up to you, though your choice may heavily impact your future in the changing world you live in.

 

That morning Yevgeni Malachite, former retainer to King Alexander and current general, called forth a meeting with what remained of Kilkis Seres' encampment, to formally break the news of Queen Shiva's death.  In addition, he appoints himself regent of Kilkis Seres until Jynn's health improves and he assumes his role as the heir to the throne . . . should he assume it.  If you are within Kilkis Seres you are likely congregating for the meeting, or perhaps you have other plans to attend to.

 

Meanwhile back at the Mystran establishment, the rebellion force is regrouping and planning their next course of action.  With accusations on Raiden being Shiva's murderer during a parlay, some of his followers have been made uneasy.  Is Raiden still trustworthy, or are the stories of his deception true?  Will he really fulfill the promises that he made, should he win this war?  These are but some of the questions that may be running through your mind, though your next actions are your own, and whether you choose to stay or leave is entirely up to you.  Regardless, the world is now silent, but it won't last that way for long.  This is but the beginning of a chapter of chaos, and it is truly a mystery whether anyone is prepared for it.  If you are with Mystras you will have likely learned of the events from the previous night and Shiva's death, along with hearing the abundance of rumors that are spreading like wildfire.

 

Welcome, survivors, to the fourth and final arc of the RP!

 

 

 

- Helios - Side: Mystras Rebellion -

At the rise of morning, Helios was quick to notice something was terribly wrong. The birds refused to sing, even when called upon. The animals, both predator and prey, hid from sight, not making a single sound. Even the carrion had denounced their need of the decaying bodies, instead hiding in fear despite their hunger. The world had gone...silent, sending chills down Helios' spine. "(What is wrong?)" Helios thought, paling as he found himself short of breath. Helios ran, running into the field and into the nearby wilds in search of any life. The silence was piercing, not single animal making a peep. They instead hid in their nests, looking at Helios with curious eyes, but never once moving. Even the birds in their nests refused to move, not even answering back. He had never witnessed something so terrifying. "What is wrong? Why won't any of you answer?" Helios asked, beginning to shake. "The world has changed." Helios gasped, feeling the large figure slowly walk up behind him. Helios turned, seeing the familiar shape of the Amarok once more. "Something has changed, wild one. No longer is it balanced. Time and time again, your conflicts have remained your own. But now...now it shall not only affect your kind. But every single living being of this world. This war...will either be the beginning of a new era...or the end of it all." Amarok hissed, taking a step towards Helios. Helios stared, gulping. "But..." "Return." Amarok said, walking past him and into the shadows. "And fight for what you think it is right. We shall strive to survive. This war is no longer of territory and conquer. It is for survival." With that, she disappeared. Helios felt his stomach turn, shaking as he ran back to the camp, leaving it as silent as it was when he first entered. It didn't take long to find an answer, as the news reached him along with the rest of the camp, spreading among whispers. Lord Raiden had killed Shiva. He, or a mysterious assassin. Some even suggested Soren had done the deed. Regardless, it didn't change the main factor. The Queen of the Overworld was dead. Helios didn't know how to feel. He felt, for one part, that it was to be expected. To achieve one dream, one had to die. Yet...it chilled him to think that Raiden would kill her as he did. He loved his Queen. Even in her faults, he was determined to show her better, to how her the beauty that humanity had to offer. Yet now she was dead...and no one had any idea which way this would end up swinging. Helios hurried to meet up with the group, to see what the next part of the war would reveal. Ren trusted Raiden. Helios, wishing to see humanity free from the drain of the barrier, wanted to trust Raiden. But want and need were two different things. For now, it was a need. "(Oh prince Jynn. Please be strong. Do not let your grief take over you like it did your mother. For the sake of your kingdom...be brave.)" Helios thought. No one deserved that pain. Enemy or not. He searched for his friends. Even with the rumors, it was a new day, and that meant a new plan against the kingdom of Kilkis Seres. "Aura? Henry?" Helios called as he entered the meeting area, scanning the area for them.

 

- Arthur - Side: Mystras Rebellion -

The news reached Arthur early in the morning. The rumors spread like wildfire; Queen Shiva was dead, and Raiden had killed her. Or at least, that is what the rumors said. Arthur didn't know what to think. In war, it was common for one ruler to die so that the other may prevail. History had many examples of such, it was almost inevitable. Yet, he couldn't help but to feel a prick at the bottom of his stomach, twisting it slightly as it pulled on his morality. "(Raiden.)" Arthur thought, playing with the flower wrapped around the hilt of his sword. He was willing to help them. To help humanity survive. So the death of Queen Shiva was justified as long as it met an ends meet...right? He hadn't seen Raiden, but he hoped to see him soon. He had to show up to speak up about the next strategy anyways, didn't he? Maybe then, Arthur could judge. He stood by his King's side, hoping to be with him when they got a new plan ready for the upcoming fight, if there was one. He looked up at Draksis, thinking of what to say, or even what to ask, but nothing came to mind, instead decided to look back down in thought. He had looked up to Raiden with starry eyes and a naive heart. Even in war, he just hoped he could see that again. Even just once. "Sir Draksis, may I ask a question?" Arthur asked, looking up at him. "When does the guilt of someone's death go away?"

Dawson and Jynn-Abode

 

Dawson gently opens the door to Jynn's office. He peers into the office. Jynn was just sitting there, staring blankly at the desk. His eyes were red, he probably didn't get any rest last night. Dawson sighs and enters the room with his paws together. He was scared of how Jynn was going to react to this horrible news. "Jynn............. I have some bad news for you................" He nervously gulps. "................ Your mother................ is dead........." Jynn finally makes movement. He balls up his hands and leans his forehead on them, shutting his eyes. "Yeah.............. I could sense it. Her aura just........... faded away..........." Dawson tilts his head. He wanted to question Jynn's reaction, but the fact that the prince didn't sleep at all pretty much sums up his emotions. "I know you are feeling incredibly hurt, but......... the crown is now yours. I think you should return to the battlefield and create a peaceful resolution between the two si-" Jynn interrupts. "I can't.........." Dawson jumps in astonishment. "W.....w-what? Why not?!" The prince pauses for a bit. Dawson is incredibly confused. "My dark powers have been exposed. Rumors will spread, and everyone will fear me." Dawson snaps back. "So you're just going to back out from your birthright? Out of fear? If people trust you, they have no reason to fear you, especially with your darkness!" Jynn starts to get irritated. He raises his head and voice. "Oh, so you can pretty much read minds? Forget it Dawson, I'm not going back." Dawson starts to get angry. He swipes everything off Jynn's desk, and stands on it. He raises his voice. "You get out there and fulfill your duty! Who the hell cares if people are scared of you? Stop being a pansy!" Jynn punches Dawson out of frustration. "ENOUGH DAWSON!" The palico is sent flying backwards and hits the wall outside of the office, leaving a dent in the shape of Dawson's body on it. Realizing what he has done, Jynn immediately tries to apologize. "Dawson! I'm sor-" But he was cut off by the feline. "Fine! You can sit there and be a bitch for all I care. I'm going back and helping! Good day!" Dawson then bolts out of the abode to the battlefield, leaving Jynn shocked.

{Mariel: Mystras Camp}

After her conversation with Sifrei, Mariel wandered restlessly through the camp. She had to suppress the urge to go crash Shiva and Raiden's meeting. But she had to trust that the Queen was genuine in her desires and that her former charge could protect himself. Hope had seen her thousands of years away from everything she had known. She couldn't abandon it now.

To help fight against the anxiety of waiting, she busied herself around the camp, helping with odd jobs and using the healing magic she had left to aid the healers. She sat up with Aura for a time, but went back to her restless wanderings. Her mind turned back to the future that lay before her. If Shiva and Raiden managed to come to some sort of accord, then her next stop was back to the Hosts. While she didn't fear for her own life in this future, she did fear that those who needed her help would be left defenseless. If she could, she would request exile. It would be a blow, but then she could still serve the people of Overworld and the World Below. A fitting fate for a Guardian Angel.

It was as she was helping bring food around the camps that Mariel began hearing the rumors of Shiva's death. Part of her feared this outcome, though it had been preferable to the news of Raiden's death. But then she started hearing conflicting reports. Some said Raiden slayed her in cold blood while other claimed that it had been that demon Soren. A few whispered of an unknown assassin. Mariel discounted the idea it was Raiden immediately. He had been an honorable man when she watched over him and she had seen in his eyes at their reunion that he still held held to that honor. Soren seemed likely. He was a demon and betrayal was a demon's way. But it was the last option that worried the Guardian Angel. If it had been an outside force, it begged the question who was making a play.

After completing her task, Mariel began gathering provisions for a journey. She knew where they met. She had spent a few hundred years her honing her tracking and woodcraft. There had to be signs and auras to read at the site. Something to give her a lead. She flexed her wings experimentally, but they were not ready to carry her. She would need a steed.

(Me and Kunivas will have a flashback about how Maxis reacted to Shiva's death) 

 

- Maxis - The Insidious - The place of Shiva's death - 

 

 

 

 

 

 

It had been a night already. A night. since...she...had died. 

 

The entire landscape in which the now...changed armor now stood had been changed, from a chunk of forest. To anyone who dared enter the illusionary barrier that he had placed as he finished his...transformation...

 

The scenery: A large sea of blood, with a blood red moon on the horizon, shining its brightly red light upon everything, the blood reflected the light. In the middle, a kneeling man stood, not a man, but his spirit. Just a sillhouete, no armor. No such thing.

 

Around him, many different shapes and forms began forming, out of the blood-red sea. They all approached the kneeling one, but never got close. 

 

"He has lost his will to live."

"He failed his calling."

"He has given up on everything"

"He failed his one chance at redemption."

"He failed to protect her."

"He failed to protect his beloved."

"The one who gave him a chance."

"And now he stands, alone. Suffering."

 

The figures all spoke in unison, repeating it for over twelve hours, ever since Shiva died. He had been stuck in this dimension. 

 

Soon enough, the blood red moon took shape as it slowly floated to the, into that of a man, purely made from madness energy, the white and black liquid dripping from him, every step he took as he walked towards him, more of the liquid began contaminating the blood-red sea. 

 

"it seems like the seal that kept us apart has been torn"  The figure spoke, its speech vile and venenous. The madness being walked over to the man's sillhouete..and kicked it in the chest, sending it flying back.

 

"Finally, I can come back...with you as my vessel." It spoke, laughing as it did. The sillhouete whom had been kicked had slowly gotten back up, but was punched in the chest. And then in the stomach, both punches spilling the madness liquid onto the environment.

 

"You have lost that which you have promised to protect, you have failed. You have nothing else to live for." The figure spoke, grabbing the man by the throat.

 

"Let me consume what is left of your soul...i'l consume everything, and you will let me." The figure spoke, bringing its free hand and attempting to grab the man's face with it. But he stopped it with his own, holding back its hand.

"Yet, you fight!" The madness being snarled. As the man began to...generate a suit of armor around him, protecting him as he pushed back the madness being. 

 

"I care not for this world, but I will not let you consume it...not because of my duty, but because I don't want you to consume it...yet." Maxis spoke, clutching his neck area. 

 

"Yet?" The madness being spoke. Folding its arms. 

"Yes, yet. I care not for it, but I will not let you consume it until...until the kill the son of a bitch who did this to her." Maxis spoke, madness leaking from his hands. Making the figure step back.

 

"I will use your power, I will kill him. And only then, after the deed is done. Will I allow you to consume my soul, and this world." MAxis spoke, his voice echoing around the entire spance of the sea. 

 

"Until then, I banish you to the dephts of my soul!" Maxis spoke, waving his arm as a the creature began sinking, into the blood red sea. Flailing its arms and struggling, but unable to stop. 

 

"Y-you dare? I will not let you do this to m-" The figure was interrupted by Maxis's boot slamming into its face, splashing the madnless liquid all around. "Shut up." Was all Maxis spoke, as it sunk down into the depths.

 

 

 

In one fell swoop, the illusion landscape broke apart. As Maxis stood, madness energy trailing behind him. As the illusion broke, he found himself back inthe spot of Shiva's murder, his sheer presence, one that of pure madness and so utterly unnatural, sending shivers down the spine anyone unfortunate enough to sense it.

 

He turned towards the lake, and gazed over it. Looking onto the sky, "I will not rest. I will not stop, I will not falter, until I avenge you Shiva. And let none stand in my way...because they will face the same fate as the one who did this is if they do." Maxis spoke, to himself, and if Shiva was listening...somewhere in the afterlife. 

 

Maxis's appearance was that of his armor, regular, but with the aura of madness around him, every step he took, the energy trailed off him, in small particles. It was like Maxis himself was slowly fading from existence. But he was not done yet, he had too much wrath to let himself be consumed.

 

Maxis walked off, into the forest...to seek out the man who did this. He could smell a myriad of auras from the lake, one of which he did not recognize. But he had to make he had to pay Raiden a visit to truly know for sure. He split off into two, no clones coming off his shadow, literaly splitting himself in half and regenerating the rest. As both went on opposite directions, one for Raiden, and the other...for whoever the unrecognized aura was. The hunt was on.

 

 

- Typhon - The Bug man Mk.3 - Jynn's abode - 

 

"Tsk tsk, punching your friend like that won't do." Typhon spoke, as he walked inside Jynn's office, the bug man was somewhat allowed around Jynn's home, well Jynn couldn't exactly object, the moment the boy sensed his mother's death, he locked himself inside the office and didn't come out. The guard were too unsure what to and allowed Typhon easy access to Jynn's home's perimeter.

 

"He is right, you know. Your kingdom will now lie unruled and in chaos, until you take over the throne." Typhon spoke in his bugged voice as always. "I know the last thing you want to hear is that you should take over, without even having the time to grieve for your mother." Typhon spoke as he took a few steps towards Jynn. 

 

"So, you have darkness, why are you so scared of it Jynn..." Typhon spoke, folding his arm, with a very serious tone. "Why are you scared of your own power." Typhon spoke. Clearly judging Jynn.

 

"Do you think you mother would have wanted this? Do you think she would have wanted her beloved son to mope inside his office, scared of a little darkness?" Typhon spoke. As he finished with the decisive sentence. "How can you see yourself fit to raise a child when you lose yourself so easily like this?!" Typhon now shouted at Jynn. Out of both anger, disgust, and his lack of empathy. This could have possibly angered Jynn, and the boy could very well lash out in violence towards Typhon. But he was ready. 

 

 

 

 

- Draksis - The Black knight - Alongside his comrades in Mystras -

 

The atmosphere was ill, it was silent, with both grief, exasperation, anger, and sadness. The peace treaty failed, and war was sure to follow. This did not bode ill for the two worlds, Draksis had a bad feeling that this war would possibly end it all.

 

Draksis stood silent, watching over as the soldiers ran by, some moped, some were too grief struck to get themselves off the ground. He was soon approached by a familiar figure. Arthur. With a heartwrenching question.

 

"To some, never." Draksis spoke, frowning as he sighed. "Some actions will follow us for the rest of our lives, it varies by person, some can kill and not feel bad, some kill because of duty, but live with the fact tha tthey have taken lives they had no right to take." Draksis explained, as clearly as he could to Arthur.

 

"However, said regrets shape us into who we are today. Living on with regret is painful, yes. But one can do much when they use it as fuel for their ideals." Draksis spoke wisely to the young man. Putting a hand on his shoulder. Offering any sympathies he could to Arthur. 

 

 

 

- Henry - The Dreadnought - Meeting of Mystras -

 

Henry stood silent, awaiting further plans, hoping for Raiden to speak up about what happened. Henry did not know what to think, Raiden had killed Shiva? What happened? Henry could not believe Raiden would do such a rash thing, he knew something was wrong and uncanny. But he could not speak up now. He would have to speak to Raiden in private at a later point to truly know.

 

He looked over to Helios as he heard the boy's call for him or Aura. Henry simply held out hish and in the air so the boy could see him. Gesturing him to come over to his side.

 

"You heard the news Helios?" Henry asked in a melancholy tone.

Edited by Scrapmaster

- Helios - Side: Mystras Rebellion - w/ Henry -

Helios hurried over to Henry's side, frowning slightly. "I heard. The rumors are going rampant all over the camp. Not just here, but around the forest too. Her death...I have never seen the Fauna react this way. They truly are terrified of what might come next." Helios explained. He chuckled to himself bitterly. "To be honest. So am I." Helios added. It was to be expected of war. It was war! The essentials of it was for two sides to fight for the object of conquering or settling a dispute. In what didn't end in a peace treaty, or a truce of some kind, usually ended with one side defeated, even dead for the rest to win. Shiva had simply lost...right? He knew Shiva was a stubborn woman, and just as a great ruler. But had that stubbornness gotten her killed, or was it something else? The unknown truth bit at his heart and stomach uncomfortably. Everyone was on edge, questioning themselves and their own loyalties, as well as the stories they were told. Some were even mourning. Could they trust Raiden any longer? Could Raiden had truly done something so dishonorable in what should have been a meeting for peace? Or was it something else entirely? Only Raiden, and Shiva knew. "Lord Raiden wouldn't go as far as to do that, would he? I know that desperation makes people do terrible things." Helios said, feelings his wrists. "But he just doesn't seem the type..."

 

- Arthur - Side: Mystras Rebellion - w/ Draksis -

Arthur listened to his mentor, nodding softly as he looked up at him. From a young boy he wanted to be a knight, to serve his kingdom and proudly be part of the elite soldiers that everyone looked up to. Even not long ago he still remained starry eyed to one day be Draksis and the older knights, to explore a new world. But nothing was as eyeopening, or as reality crushing as the feeling of death on his hands. Now he knew. Now he experienced it, having the lasting scars on his face to remember. Now it was up to him to do something about it. "Our world is dying." Arthur began. "Because of this barrier that the Queen refused to take down. Part of me wants to thank Raiden, if he killed her. Because he took down a big obstacle to healing our world again. But I also feel guilt, because the Queen was a good ruler to her people, and was just doing what she thought was best for them." Arthur explained, trying to convince himself with his own words. "But I guess...we move on, don't we? Because time waits for no one. We can mourn and we can regret. But there's no good in stopping, is there?" Arthur asked, giving Draksis a soft, innocent smile. "We're soldiers because we march on for the best, no matter what is thrown at us. At least, that's what my dad used to say." Arthur quickly straightened up. "Apologies, sir. Soldiers are supposed to remain strong for their people. But even shields can get cracks, huh?" Arthur turned, looking back as he returned to his stance. "I hope, that we get to speak to Lord Raiden, at least." Arthur said, feeling his messenger bag on his side.

 

- Arthur & Alex FLASHBACK - Sneak Mission -

 

 

Soldiers that weren't remaining in the Healing Tents were quick to find spots to sleep and rest up for the next day. Soldiers that remained at guard exchanged shifts, while others simply continued on despite their exhaustion. In the dark of night, only dim lighting shinning the main residence, Arthur peeked around a corner along with Alex. The two had sneaked out of the tents among the exhaustive panic, sneaking their way to the library. If they could find something, anything that could help the Princess and her illness, it would be knocking down two birds with one stone. "Hold." Arthur whispered. He looked over, waiting for the soldier to move. The soldier spoke with another, before walking away with him down another hallway. "Now." Arthur hurried down the hall, glancing around as he watched his steps from not being too loud. It wasn't like it would be Raiden's personal quarters, they would be fine, probably. Arthur opened up the door, allowing Alex in before following him right inside, gently closing the door behind them. The Library, to its credit, was pretty well sized and grand, including a lit fireplace and chairs and tables of the best quality to enjoy. "Everyone's busy with the injured and overall trying to stay awake. We should have enough time." Arthur began, taking a step back as he glanced around the library. "...but where do we begin...?"

 

 

Edited by Stardustblade358

  • Author

--King Alderon -- Mystran campsite--

(flashback)

 

Before Alderon so much as closed his eyes a guest appeared in his tent, a face he hadn't seen in so long ad yet could never forget.

 

"Well, well, if it isn't Henry," he murmured, voice low so as not to strain himself by speaking.  "The world is a strange one, yes, and growing ever more curious by the day.  Tell me: why is it that you chose to side with me after all, after our many years of struggle and conflict?"

 

It was something that Alderon had been rather curious about ever since he learned that the dreadnaught joined their army.  While he heard stories and explanations from others, he desired to hear it from Henry's own lips.

 

 

That morning the king awoke with a severe headache and throbbing pain in his shoulder.  He tried to get up, grunted, and fell back upon the sheets, white as a ghost.  A healer must've noticed his struggle, for in less than a second she was already at his side and hovering her hands over his wounded shoulder.

 

"You mustn't move," she told him, hands still intertwined.  A pale green aura emitted from them, orbiting around his wound before engulfing his entire shoulder.  He let out a sigh of relief as the pain ebbed away.

 

"I don't know how we have managed to live in a world without magic for this long," Alderon said jokingly toward the medic once she was finished.  She didn't comment, but instead merely shook her head.

 

"I have eased the pain and prevented infection, but you must not overdo it.  You have lost a lot of blood and therefore your strength.  Even magic has its limits."

 

Alderon flexed his arm, testing his shoulder.  He was able to move without pain, though his muscles felt stiff and he had less sensation in his fingertips.  "Very well.  You have my thanks, milady."

 

Without a word the healer walked away to tend to another wounded soldier.  Praise from a human apparently meant little to her, regardless of nobility.  Alderon swung his legs over the cot and managed to step outside, where he drew in a breath of fresh cool air to fill his lungs.  Somehow he managed to live to see another dawn.

 

--Everyth Castanova -- Mystran campsite--

 

Sleep had been elusive to the mage; the only real sleep that she had acquired had been when a healer had given her some concoction that left her groggy and feeling feverish.  Everyth spent the morning alongside the stream, splashing her face with cool water in hopes to snap some life back into her.  Ever since the battle she just hadn't felt the same.  Her very bones felt weakened, her joints ached, and the silver lock of hair entwined with her dark strands served as a painful reminder that her magic came with a steep price.  Who knew how many years she had taken off of her lifespan the other day.

 

She carefully bent over and unlaced her boots, which were caked with mud, blood, and who knew what else.  She then walked barefoot into the shallow portion of the stream; the rocks scratching the soles of her feet if she didn't tread carefully.  Everyth was far enough away that the voices from camp couldn't be heard where she was, though on her way out that morning people had already been discussing the death of the queen.  This came as both a surprise and inconvenience to Everyth.  For starters, it would've been very bad if Raiden had murdered her during what was meant to be a peaceful meeting between the two, and second it meant that Kilkis Seres would be vengeful.  Any hope of a peaceful reconciliation was slim to none now.

 

--Elia Cabret -- Kilkis Seres campsite--

 

New robes had been brought to the young time fairy, which she gratefully accepted and wrapped herself in.  The entire campsite was in a state of mourning, for they lost their beloved queen and monarch that had peacefully ruled their land for two millennium.  Elia didn't know the queen personally, but was still saddened and slightly shocked to hear of her death.  She thoughts instantly traced to Jynn.  How was the prince taking her death?  Did he know?  Would he rise as king?

 

For now, Elia sat by a fire, warming her hands and cup of honey milk.  She saw many people come and go, some of which she recognized and others she didn't.  It enraged her that Mystras would be so dishonorable as to take Shiva's life; who did they think they were?

 

She drew in a sip of her milk, watching as Yevgeni Malachite emerged from a tent with a tall sentry guard in tow.  Her eyes narrowed. His face was grave as he spoke with the man, making hand gestures toward the campsite and glancing at the sun.  She felt that it was his fault somehow, though she knew that it was an irrational thought.  Her hatred for him ran deep because of her sister, and now she had lost her queen, too.  He didn't seem to notice her watching, and strode off in another direction.  A meeting was going to be held by the elf, though Elia had no interest in what he was going to say.

 

--Curvis Sourati -- Kilkis Seres camp--

 

The death of the queen struck Curvis hard, and immediately he felt his hopes crush under him like childish dreams.  He didn't even get the chance to speak with Shiva.  Curvis said and did little, barely acknowledging Aqua when spoken to.  That morning there was a meeting to be held, though Curvis didn't know where his place stood.  Now did not seem like a good time to introduce himself as a human who strayed from the Mystran campgrounds.  Chances were they would try to pin Shiva's death on him somehow, and no good could possibly come of that.  That morning he walked up to Aqua, in the robes that she had graciously given him so that he didn't stand out like a sore thumb.

 

"Milady Aqua," he said, offering her a respectful bow of the head.  "It has been a pleasure knowing you, and I thank you for putting yourself at risk for bringing me here, but I feel that I must go with these current change of events.  My presence will not be welcomed here, and I will be putting you in jeopardy as well as myself.  I hope that you understand."

 

--Yevgeni Malachite -- Kilkis Seres campgrounds--

 

The elf left one tent and entered another, his heart weighing mightily on him.  Speaking of Shiva's death was one thing, but the reality of it was entirely another matter.  Everything he did was for a just cause, he told himself over and over, but it was growing old to hear, and little did he find himself believing in it.  He approached one of the generals and accepted a scroll.

 

"It has been decreed, milord," the general informed him.

 

Yevgeni nodded briefly, giving the campsite a quick glance.  "And His Majesty?"

 

"Is nowhere to be found."

 

"Very well.  Perhaps he will grace us with his presence once he comes to terms with our current predicament.  Things have grown much more serious, Eldowin.  I would like an audience with the rulers from the North."

 

The general choked as though having been stabbed in the gut.  "Th--the north, milord?  But, we have not been in contact with them for over a millennia; the queen broke all contact with them.  Besides, they have sided with Lord Raiden."

 

"That was before his Lordship decided to assassinate the queen," Yevgeni interjected shortly.  "I know Leviathan to a certain degree.  She would not approve of murdering an unarmed queen, even if to save the worlds.  I would like for you to send for Rabiyu.  To my knowledge she currently resides with the Mystran establishment."

 

There was obvious hesitancy written on the general's face, but he instead nodded than voice his objections.  "Yes, milord.  It shall be done."

- Henry - The Dreadnought - Mystras meeting -

(Flashback) 

 

So, Alderon had been awake, seens llike his arrival had interrupted the king's sleep, somewhat. Alderon looked at him, with neither disdain no respect on the man's voice, it was simply neutral. As it should be for Henry. 

 

Henry's expression turned into a frown and a sigh as Alderon asked him about his allegiance. Prompting Henry to simply fold his arms. "Don't misunderstand me, I have not sided with you, nor have I sided fully with Raiden. I am a third party in all of this." Henry spoke, his tone a mixture of disgust and seriousness made Henry's point clear. He had no intention of fully taking neither ruler's side. 

 

"Our objectives align, somewhat. I want my world saved, you want your daughter's affliction cured. If I have to fight on the same battlefield as you then thats an acceptable compromise." Henry added. He knew about Alderon quite a bit, considering Henry served under him as the royal guard before he was experimented on.

 

Henry waited for Alderon's reaction, in case the ruler had more to ask of him. After all, that is what Henry was here for as well. To sate his own curiosity

 

 

 

 

"Raiden did not do the deed. of that I know." Henry muttered to Helios, making sure only the boy could hear. As he didn't take his eyes off his surroundings. "It was a peace treaty, both were going, probably by alone, to meet and form some sort of alliance. My gut tells me its not right." Henry explained himself to Helios so the boy understood his thoughts clearly. 

 

"I think it was the act of a third party in said affair, an assassin has taken down Shiva. But we won't know anything until Raiden gets here and explains it himself." Henry finished as had a serious look on his face. 

 

"But one thing is for sure, about you talking about the fauna's reaction. Something is going to happen now. And it won't be pretty." Henry finished as he looked at Helios. More war was coming, that much was obvious.

 

 

- Alex Marz - The Prodigy Knight - The Mystrian meeting - 

 

(Flashback) 

 

 

Through the dark of night, both men sneaked off to the library, it was much easier than Alex had anticipated, he was equipped with only a shirt on him, to hide his bandagess on his stomach. They hid from patrols, and with Arthur's initiative, they had made it inside the library. 

 

Arthur was the first to speak, what type of book should they look for? and what category should they begin looking for? Alex did not know for sure.

Alex shrugged, "Well, the most well known doctors, scientists and alchemists of our world never found anything. So i'l have to make an educated guess and say it is magic. maybe a curse?" Alex gave his comment to Arthur.

 

Alex wasted no time walking, making sure he did no sound on his footsteps still, to whatever book that spoke about curses to him. Grabbing one that piqued his interest, it read "Ancient curses and its afflictions.". He opened the book and examined the contents, awaiting for Arthur to do the same with a different book.

 

 

 

 

The morale was already low the past night, now it was extraordinarily so. With the news of Shiva's death, everyone knew this meant more war, This meant more death and pain for both sides, Alex did not want this but he could do nothing now.

 

He stood, just simply stood, waiting for something to happen, while he sat alongside his fellow knights. He saw Arthur speakin to Draksis in the distance, but he had not approached them, he was still in thought. Especially about the library raid last night with Arthur. Thinking about what they found.

 

 

- Draksis - The Black Knight - With Arthur - 

 

 

"No one can really say for sure her motives for the barrier, and I will not judge her so. No one would ever wish for an entire species to die out, when they could have done something to prevent it." Draksis tried his best to explain his visions on the topic at hand.

 

Draksis smiled as Arthur spoke about moving on, the boy was slowly, but surely, maturing. This was a sight to see for someone of Draksis's age, "Indeed we are, Arthur. Soldiers move on, alongside their king. Never looking back, accepting the consequences of their actions. Sure you may have moments of doubt, like now. But you cannot waver in your ideals and path." Draksis could only say this to Arthur. With a fatherly tone even. Before Arthur commented about Raiden, which forced a frown on Draksis's face.

 

"He'l have to speak up about it. It probably shouldn't be long until then..." Draksis finished.

 

 

 

 

- Caligo - Divine City of Water: Heimdall - Cerulean Palace -

This was the dawn of a new day, but one not filled with the usual warmth of the sun above, nor the songs of the nature around the City of Water, this was a cold day, even when winter was yet far away. For the first time in centuries the 13 judges of the North, not counting Judge Magister Eliltari and Judge Mond, were physically present, standing under the calming eyes of the Tide Mother, Leviathan, and her husband, King Asura. It was rather strange that a meeting was requested when no more than a few hours ago both Eliltari and Sifrei offered their report. Asura was the first to raise up and address the two Judges.

"I was told about the situation regarding the Frostbearer and Raiden of Mystras," he said, his voice calm and collected, " but I cannot hide my surprise that you have requested another meeting so soon after the last one. Is there a reason for that Judge Magister?"

It was a strange feeling for Rabiyu to have all the eyes staring at her. The two rulers of the North, their respective courts, and the rest of the judges were paying full attention to whatever she was going to say. She glanced at the silhouette of Sifrei who nodded slightly before looking at the King and Queen once more.

"As we reported to the Tide Mother last night, Raiden of Mystras and Shiva of Kilkis Seres agreed to a parley to discuss terms in which the fight could be stopped from escalating further. At some point during this discussion Queen Shiva was attacked by an unknown third party and suffered serious injures that, and I regret to say it, resulted in her demise," Rabiyu said while looking at Leviathan, "Rumors around Mystras suggest that it was Raiden himself who betrayed the Queen and attacked her in order to asure victory, others say that it was the actions of a former soldier of the Queen who struck her down. We are not completely sure about the situation."

"If I am permitted to interrupt, Your Highness. Judge Magister Eliltari had visions of the coming event, but was unable to learn the true identity of the culprit or their reasoning." Sifrei said to the King, "She also said that the possibility that Raiden was the one who fell last night was also present. That makes us suspect that this supposed third party was responsible for the Frostbearer's fall."

The room was silent, and it remained that way for what it felt hours, until the moment hundred of voices erupted from all over the throne room. How was it possible that the Queen of Kilkis Seres was dead, surely it was Raiden's fault. But the Judge Magister said Raiden was innocent and that someone else was trying to frame him for Shiva's murder. The rest of the Judges whispered among themselves, Asura turned his head to look at his dear Wife and sighed before looking at the judges once more.

"Alas, such a tragic dawn this day has brought. If your suspicions are proven correct, Judge Magister, and Raiden of Mystras is indeed innocent then our goal remains the same. Keep supporting Raiden until we can make sure that both worlds can rejoin," Asura said stoically, "In the case that the Lord of Mystras is indeed the culprit then I am afraid that any help that we offered will be revoked and-"

No one had payed enough attention to notice that the stain glass windows around the throne room were growing darker and darker with each passing moment, not even the sound of raindrops was noticed by anyone. It was a strange event, there was no hints of a storm happening early in the day, not today, but destiny worked in mysterious ways. Asura turned to look at his wife and was surprised to notice that the Queen's hair had stopped waving as if it was underwater, now, it laid flat and unmoving, the Tide Mother's eyes were closed and her chest rose and fell at a quick pace.

The windows then bursted and took everyone by surprise as a loud roar could be heard coming from the direction of Lake Aelinistil. Asura went to the closest window and gazed towards the lake, his eyes couldn't believe what they were seeing. After two millennia, there she was, the Tide Mother in the flesh. Slowly every fey in the room walked closer to the windows to witness the enormous water serpent wreaking havoc in the middle of the lake. The youngest ones had heard stories about the fury of the ever calm Lady Leviathan, and today they realized that those stories were true. The judges rose from the ground and quickly flew towards the lake, only Mielinare, Eliltari and Sifrei remained behind. At the moment Asura turned to look at the motionless body of his wife, his eyes once again grew wide with surprise. There, in the throne, with eyes open, was Leviathan, but something about her was different, her hair was not floating like it always did, she also looked slightly confused.

"O King, wherefore does the Lady weep? Why is it that We were released into the world once more while the Lady rises from the deep?" Asked Uinen, a water Nymph and Vessel of the Tide Mother, before looking at the Fire Nymph in front of her, "Ancient Bright One, what is the reason the Lady is in such pain?"

Before either Eliltari or Sifrei could listen to Mielinare's reply, the backlash in the arcane flow around the City of Water interfered with their astral projection and they were sent back to were they were resting in Mystras, leaving the outcome of the event surrounded in mystery.

 

 

 

 

 

- Aura - Mystras Campsite -

The night had been calm, or at least that's what Aura thought, at some point in the night she could swore that someone was with her. Once the morning came she was famished, so she wandered for awhile until she found a spot were everyone was eating. She didn't realized how much time she had been there, but once her consciousness came back a group of fey were looking at her with wide eyes.

"Can I, uh, help you?" The human girl asked.

The three feys looked at each other and then back at Aura.

"Ca' me surprised, lassie, ah didnae knew folk cuid devour a' that in a single meal. " The smallest one said.

"You must haffe peen guite tired after yestertay's effent correct? I'm not zat zurbrized myzelf." A beautiful looking female said while smiling.

"These humans sure are something. I am amazed that they managed to survive a battle without the use of magic," The last one, a strange lizard male said,

Aura stared at them then at her plate, or plates since she had a few of them in front of her, all of them empty, this surprised the young woman, she actually blushed and coughed a little.

"S-sorry, I think I was more tired and hungry than I realized," she said while standing up and bowing slightly, "please excuse me."

Without waiting for a reply Aura quickly walked away, thinking how it was possible that she had eaten all that food without realizing it, that had been weird even for her She also could still hear the three fey behind her quite clearly, considering the distance between them. After some more time around the tents, asking the Healers about the bodies of the fallen, she managed to find the body of her brother. Even in death he was still smiling, his body was surrounded by a faint yellow light, his wounds were barely visible. Aura spend some time alone, praying that his brother was watching over her. Once enuogh time passed Aura went back to the tents, in the way she heard whispers about the Queen of Kilkis Seres's death at the hands of Raiden, or about a mysterious shadow who was the one who killed the Queen. Was it true? she had to find her friends and find out the truth. After looking for a little longer she caught sight of two familiar faces, those of Henry and Helios
.
"Morning, friends I keep hearing that the Queen fell last night at the hands of Raiden, is it true?" she said as she got closer to the two, "Somehow I do not think that Raiden is that kind of person, at least, not since the time we have seen him, which is not that much to be honest. This outcome means more troubles for both sites, and even more for us humans."

 

 

 

- Judges - Mystras: Outside Raiden's Villa -

To say that the morning had been quite eventful was quite an understatement, whatever had happened back home was sumething beyond their control. The Tide Mother went out of control and who knew what had happened after that.

"I am sure the rest of the judge will take care of that, Sifrei. There is no need for us to return. Besides, our orders remain the same unless Lord Raiden is guilty of such act," Rabiyu said to Sifrei, "Let us keep our thoughts in order and deal with out own situation here. Take some time while we wait to see if Lord Raiden will address this issue."

At this point Rabiyu and Sifrei went their separate ways.


- Sifrei - Mystras Camp -

The Archangel was quite disturbed by the events in the City of Water, not only the Tide Mother appeared in the Lake, but a huge magical backlash interfered with the astral projection of both Rabiyu and him. Still, they had to focus on the current situation. While wandering around the campsite Sifrei noticed Mariel flexing her wings, as if trying to fly, which didn't actually happen. She appeared to have provisions for a journey, but where? Sifrei didn't known.

"Good morning , Mariel," he said as he walked towards the Guardian Angel, "Where are you going this early in the morning? At this point I suppose you have heard the rumors about what happened between Lord Raiden and the Frostbearer. Shouldn't we wait for a briefing of the situation? Or are you planning to investigate these rumors by yourself?"


- Rabiyu - Mystras: Raiden's villa courtyard -

First the thing inside her, then Alastor's visit to talk about dragons, which was interesting, then the news about Raiden and Shiva, and now the problem back in the North. Fate worked in strange ways, indeed. Rabiyu wondered if telling the King about her visions was a good idea, Sifrei had good intentions, but what if she was wrong, her gift only showed her possible futures, after all.

"There is no use in worrying, not now," she thought, "The city remained safe and that's what I was ordered to do."

The Elf had seen many events happening around the city last night,thanks to her rune, some events were  dull, some interesting, others questionable, even the Black Witch had been strangely calm, Rabiyu thought that while she may be bad news, she didn't had anything to do with the events of last night. For now she was going to remain at the villa for a little while longer. Perhaps the Lord of Mystras would return home before addressing the rumors about his supposed betrayal to the Queen of Kilkis Seres.

Edited by Elrandir

Configure browser push notifications

Chrome (Android)
  1. Tap the lock icon next to the address bar.
  2. Tap Permissions → Notifications.
  3. Adjust your preference.
Chrome (Desktop)
  1. Click the padlock icon in the address bar.
  2. Select Site settings.
  3. Find Notifications and adjust your preference.
Scroll to the top