This is the roleplay thread for Overworld, my original RP.

 

Please read this initial opening post before posting, as it will explain a lot of unanswered questions, initial scenarios, how to post, as well as how to translate the world map and the existing territories.  Also, please subscribe to this thread so that you can remain up-to-date with notifications. : )

 

Prologue

There exists, beyond the visible world we see, a place where the impossible is indeed possible.  A place where magic isn't merely a dark art whispered among sorcerers and beggars, but rather is flourished by it.  This place, as grand as it may seem, is referred to the Overworld: home to the creatures of legend and all fey imaginable.  Far above the world that we know and live in, these fey have a paradise of their own, with gardens, beauty, riches, and marvelous kingdoms in a more advanced society than that of our world.  They lived in peace and harmony, with few crimes ever heard of upon the kingdom of Kilkes Seres.

 

That is, however, until three friends severed the bond of trust and ventured into the world below, implanting a terrible idea into the minds of greedy humans that would never cease.

 

It has been several years since the three fey friends arrived in the world below within the Medieval era, befriending many and antagonizing others.  Many humans were indeed frightened of these magical beings, fearing that they were demons from the underworld or accursed sorcerers performing witchcraft.  Their rumor leaked to the ears of King Alderon Niles, a man who recently was grieved by his daughter's infliction of a terrible curse.  In hopes that these three friends could cure his daughter, Alderon had other plans in mind for these fey, along with those who reside in the world above.  Many wars have stained the earth with blood, and Alderon's very kingdom was threatening to split in two if something wasn't done.  Something tremendous, extraordinary . . . .  And that's when he realized it: if he could somehow channel magic into his war there would be no way that his enemies could touch him, let alone defeat him.  It would indeed be a sacrifice of a splendid and marvelous race, but these were hard times, and Alderon would do what it took to do what's right for his daughter, his kingdom, and, most importantly, himself.

 

Realizing that they would be used, the three friends fled the Kingdom of Sondon, attempting to escape back to the Overworld.  One of their friends, Ren, managed to return, while Helios and Ariana were captured.  Both were used in Alderon's terrible, inhumane experiments, transferring their magical blood into that of a human and performing rituals only whispered of among sorcerers.  After infusing ten soldiers with Ari's blood, only three surviving (including Henry), the fey expired, leaving Helios alone to fuel Alderon's experiments.  And to this day he still lives, fueling a limited supply of men while Alderon perfects his ultimate device that will provide him with all of the fey he desires: the flying machine.

 

War is brewing, and the cogs are now in motion.  The fey above are aware and preparing for this battle against the augmented human race, and very soon the rest of the world below will too experience a catastrophe they could hardly imagine.

 

Today your journey begins, and you play a vital role in the outcome of this conflict that is rising.  Your actions will determine the fate of all humanity, as well as the world of the fey.  It all starts here, where you will arrive at the scene.

 

In the Kingdom of Sondon, Alderon has prepared a feast for his most loyal scientists, engineers, and soldiers.  A very closed group with high security.  An orchestra is playing for the occasion, and everyone is dressed in their finest.  King Alderon sits at the head of the table, overviewing a scroll while speaking with his royal advisor.  Guests are filling in, and if you are a member of the staff you are likely attending this meeting.  Helios has also been invited as a guest, one of his first times outside of the bleak prison walls that he is normally surrounded by.

 

During that same evening a small private council has gathered in the meeting room of Queen Shiva, ruler of Kilkes Seres and a great portion of the Overworld.  Apparently a small city independent of Kilkis Seres, called Mystras, has shut themselves off from them, keeping to themselves and doing strange activities, including frequent visits to Ispolis.  Queen Shiva won't disclose what is there, but she is displeased by the activities and fear Mystras may be aligned with the humans.  If you are fey you may be at this council, or you may be enjoying the evening doing whatever you please.  The entire map of the Overworld is open to you.

 

When posting please include your character's name and location at the top of your post, so that way we can keep things more organized and know at a glance where you are. : )

 

Below are the maps to the two worlds that our legacy takes place in:

The Kingdom of Sondon is all red territories on the map, with the capitol being Sondon itself.  The pale-blue and lime-green territories are other neighboring kingdoms, the pale-blue country being named Helvadoria (will update the map eventually), and the Kingdom of Augustus.  King Augustus is one who keeps to himself often, not often involved in the battles between the Kingdom of Sondon and Helvadoria.

Kilkis Seres is the capitol of the main territories of the Overworld, while Mystras is governered independently by a lord that reports to Queen Shiva of Kilkis Seres.

 

There are other territories beyond the ones aforementioned on these two maps, but the ones which are shown is where the story is going to take place and where you will predominately be traveling/reffering to.  Capitols are indicated by larger dots.

 

And finally, we have our character roster, courtesy of The Unversed and Endless Thundaga (because I can never keep this updated myself for the life of me):

 

Dwellers of the Overworld:

Ruled by Queen Shiva (Female, Fey-Eidolon)
'Eliltari' among Elves & 'Rabiyu' among others (Female, High Elf)
Rufus Contralto (Male, Fey)
Elia Cabret (Female, Fairy)
Yevgeni Malachite (Male, Elf)
Helios (Male, Fey)
Jynn Venas, Heir of Overworld (Male, Fey-Eidolon)
Pracia (Female, Scralose) 
Alicia Kross (Female, Fey)
Aqua Lumen (Female, Elf)
Machiav Froisis or "Alastor" (Male, Fey)
Maxis (Possessed Armor, Likely Fey)
Bherna Lao (Female, Fey)
Eclaire (Female, Valkyrie/Succubus)
Morana (Female, Fey-Wedigo)
Soren Monroe (Male, Demonic Fey)
Typhon (Possibly Male, Cyph)
Rhaedyn Thane (Possibly Male, Ithurian)

Those within the World Below:
Ruled by King Alderon Niles (Male, Human)
Effie (Female, Demon-Zanzia)
Raleigh Marin (Female, Human)
Aura Aeternum (Female, Human)
Aurion Aeternum (Male, Human)
Arthur Gancelot (Male, Human)
Visco Niles (Female, Human (Cursed))
Midnea (Female, Fey-Fairy)
Henry Hansees (Male, Human (Augmented))
Draksis Gunther (Male, Human)
Curvis Sourati (Male, Human)
Roger (Male, Human)
Everyth Castanova (Female, Human)

- Helios - Side: Mystras Rebellion - w/ Henry, Aura & Everyth -

Helios glanced up. At last, Lord Raiden was about to arrive for his speech. Tension suddenly rose, people's whispers only becoming louder as they all began to get ready, joining up in groups as they moved to the tent. Helios nodded at Henry. "Everyone is anxious for his announcement. I would be lying if I said I wasn't in the same position." Helios admitted, looking up at Henry. "I won't be able to see Raiden with so many people though...oh!" Helios gasped, coming up with an idea. He closed his eyes, white smoke suddenly surrounding him. From the smoke, up Henry's arm, a white ferret began to climb up Henry before climbing on top of his head, proceeding to rest there now with a pretty good view from the top of Henry's head. "There we go." Helios, in his ferret form said, wagging his tail as he looked down at Henry, tilting his head as he did. "I promise not to mess up your hair, Henry." 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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

Arthur perked his head up, looking over at Draksis. "We should join up with the King. It seems Lord Raiden's going to finally speak soon." Arthur said, gesturing over to the King and Alex before walking over to the two. "Alex. Feeling better?" Arthur asked as he stepped up. He then bowed to King Alderon. "Your majesty." He straightened up. "I suggest we begin to join the others in the tent. Raiden will be speaking soon...I'm sure we all want to hear what he has to say." Arthur said, smiling his usual smile. By the morning he was calmer than the night before, though he still thought about the book in his bag constantly, and of course, about Midnea. Or more specifically how he would like to kick her despite everything he was taught as a knight told him otherwise. Because she was no lady to him. Not any longer, at least.

 

- Arthur & Alex FLASHBACK END - Sneak Mission -

 

Arthur held the book close, glaring down at the floor in anger. He was frustrated. He wanted to head straight to the king and tell him everything. He wanted to confront Midnea. All this time they searched for a cure, and it was just within their grasp, and yet they had to wait. Or risk losing everything. He took a deep breath, before sighing, looking up at Alex worryingly. "...I understand...just..." Arthur shook his head. "We'll wait for the right moment. But we cannot keep it from the king forever....we cannot keep the cure from Visco forever." He insisted, looking down again. He reached into his messenger bag, making space for the book before stashing it inside, closing the messenger bag and strapping it close tightly. "I'll hold onto the book until the right time arrives. For now...we should get some rest. It's been...a very long day." Arthur sighed, rubbing his temples before looking up at Alex. "Thank you." He said. He paused for a moment, glancing at his hands before looking back at Alex. "Oh yeah, sorry about my outburst. I'm...still getting used to that. I'll explain it later! It's just something about my dad being from the Overworld, being an electric dog and all." Arthur explained as he stepped away. "Well! I'll get going! You should rest too! Good night, Alex!" Arthur said cheerfully, quickly but gently hugging Alex before running off.

 

 

 

- Aura - Healer's tent - With Henry, Helios, Everyth and Mariel -

Aura heard what Helios said and she turned to look at him.

"I hope the same for the Prince. The loss of a parent is never an easy thing."

Or a brother for that matter. Aura did notice the strange look Everyth gave her, and she was going to ask if something was wrong, but a familiar angel quickly made Aura change her mind. Apparently Raiden came back and was calling everyone.
"Indeed. It is the most logical conclusion. I would also like to listen to what his Lordship has to say."

"Agreed. I fear that every person will want to listen to Lord Raiden's speech. We should get moving then, or else more and more people will be there before us."

What happened next took Aura by surprise. Helios changed forms and was now resting on Henry's head as a ferret.

"You still amaze me with your abilities, Helios," she said with a small smile, "Anyways, let's get moving, yes?"


- Rabiyu - Alastor's tent -

But how much time left they had, Rabiyu wondered. It seemed that both her and Alastor realized that something else was moving in the shadows, but he was right, that was a matter for another time. Rabiyu followed Alastor outside, but instead of following him she choose to walk to the designated spot. The rumors kepts growing, more and more saying that Raiden had indeed killed the Queen, would they accept Raiden's words as truth? or would they continue to think he was a killer. Once she was near the tent were Raiden was she noticed the Druid coming out and getting lost in the crowd. What was his objective, what was he trying to do by being here at this moment in time. A hand on her shoulder brought Rabiyu back to reality.

"You were spacing out, it's not normal." Sifrei said, "Are you going back to Lord Raiden?
"Correct. I found Master Alastor and I am sure he is currently with Lord Raiden," she answered, "I think it is time to find his Lordship before he gives his speech."

Rabiyu and Sifrei walked inside the tent again, the air felt heavy with anticipation for the Lord of Mystras's speech. Just like Rabiyu said, Alastor was already with Raiden, it wasn't long before the appointed time. Both Judges made their way towards Raiden and Alastor.
 

- Soren Monroe, the Penitent Traitor - FLASHBACK, Lake Kresnik -

 

 

Raiden's forgiveness eased Soren's soul, though he was still wracked with grief, he would try to keep his cool in this dire situation. The Lord of Mystras posed the former Sentinel of Isopolis a question, one Soren could only meet with a shaken head and a sigh before answering. "No, I never studied the Arcane. Only Hellfire, Shadow and Brimstone respond to my commands...I'm sorry." He uttered solemnly, once again taking in the sight of Queen Shiva, bleeding out and suffering immensely, the damage dealt by a Feyslayer was not efficient nor was it merciful. Soren knew that Raiden wanted to save her, as did he, yet despite his internal rationalizations that she could be saved, Soren was plagued with a sinking feeling in his gut.

 

"You said it yourself, Raiden...she doesn't have much time left and that Assassin was thorough." Soren spoke, initially a shaken, yet reserved voice sounded, but as the reality dawned upon him, he quickly became distraught, doing his best to remain steadfast. "We...w-we, can't save her. Even if we kept pressure on her...her wounds, the bleeding is too much--" Soren soon choked on his words, stifling his grief, knowing that Raiden would be hard to console.

 

"My queen...Shiva, please speak to us...stay with us, just a little longer, I beg of you!" He uttered with great restraint, desperately trying not to shout or scream, as much as he wanted to comfort her in her last moments, he lacked the strength to see it through.

 

 

 

 

- Meksis, the Chaperone, Armour of Light - FLASHBACK, Kilkis Camp Outskirts -

 

 

What happened next during the mind meld between Meksis and his comrade shook him to his very foundations, as he was pulled into the rift between Maxis, and what appeared to be the being that was plaguing him so. It was a surreal environment, perfectly befitting of the unnatural, disembodied voice now addressing him, asking him why he had come at all.

 

"Who are you? What have you done to my friend? And what is this...a Lake?!" He bellowed aloud, frantically looking around, attempting to catch a glimpse of the one speaking to him, but found no luck. "I seek to help him, now show yourse--ahh! What?!" Meksis cried out in shock as the Maxis replicas erupted from the Lake as it all turned to blood around him. The Voice taunted him as these deranged replicas of his friend twitched and clawed at him, the same fluid as he saw upon the real thing oozing from their armours.

 

"You will not have him! Even if you claim him now! I--...I, I...n-no..." The Defiled's presence bore down upon his mind as The Voice made the mere mention of a "peculiar smell", seemingly triggering the infection to strike, forcing Meksis to clutch his head in pain, but able to summon his sword with one hand and wildly slashed at the air as he struggled to keep it at bay.

 

"Your friend is gone, Meksis...let it be just you...and I, now...and forever more~"

 

"I-I cannot!...leave now..! He--aagh!" Agony overtook Meksis as he was forced out of Maxis's mindscape.

 

-------------

 

Meksis's body was overwhelmed by a burning, crackling aura of Light close to his armour; feedback from his forcibly terminated mind meld with Maxis as he crumpled to the ground clutching his head, both hands firmly gripping upon the helmet as he resisted the Defiled, but was otherwise powerless to stop Maxis, now a maniac, under the thrall of something far worse than the Defiled was.

 

 

 

- Nergal, the Queenslayer, Yevgeni's Blade - Kilkis Seres Campgrounds -

 

Flashback:

 

 

The screams and cries of Soren and Raiden grew distant quickly, as the Assassin slipped away, into the distance while his cackling subsided, simply sighing as he realized, and took great pleasure in, what had just transpired.

 

The deed was done. Queen Shiva was now mortally wounded and alone with two of the most prominent traitors in the history of the Overworld.

 

Oh, how Nergal couldn't wait to inform Yevgeni of the good news...

 

 

 

- Present Day with Nergal -

 

Sight unseen, Nergal had reentered the Campgrounds of Kilkis Seres, cleaned up, hooded and Masked once more with his Golden Sunlight Mask, having conjured a new one. Walking in from behind Yevgeni, who had just finished up a speech, of which Nergal had remained behind the scenes just to listen to it in its entirety, with his arms behind his back, emulating an air of propriety as he would remain distant but beckon Yevgeni over, carefully conveying himself as a man with important business, a messenger. The mask certainly made this easier, after killing the Queen, the need to be inconspicuous was greater than ever. Maybe one would suspect a man in a mask, but not one dressed and acting such as he. To the others, he should appear as a noteworthy sight, nothing more, perhaps carrying an air of mystery and yet valour. But for Nergal...it was Tuesday.

- Lord Raiden, Mystras, at the Mystran encampment -

 

After dispersing the electric field of silence, Raiden did indeed leap in surprise when he found Alastor nearby, commentating on his conversation with the strange druid.  Astounding, thought he, yet he also found it alarming.  Even if Alastor merely read lips, to understand what was said was a gift of awareness to Alastor and a curse to his own privacy.

 

"I may be . . . though it will take some time to weigh the circumstances necessary for them," he intoned carefully, bracing his head before flinging strands of greasy, errant hair behind his ear.  "If the situation demands it, the idea is sound, but I do not crave to remove diplomatic relations for both worlds at the cost of a permanent stalemate.  For now, I shall pocket the idea, though I may run this by you later, old friend.  I always enjoy your advice."

 

Raiden smiled with gravity towards Alastor before noticing that Rabiyu and Sifrei had made their way back as well.  He nodded in gratitude toward them, though his expression dropped into a well of dourness.

 

"Thank you both for finding my right hand, and for disseminating the news.  I take it the crowd is mostly gathered outside?  If you are all ready, we have not a moment to lose, though I will wait for Mariel before I begin to speak.  I owe her that much, and so much more, respect over the fellowship we shared over the years."

 

He waited courteously for an answer in assent or declination from the Northern Judges and his advisor before leaving.  The water barrel nearby tempted him incredibly as his eyes wandered toward it.  He did not recall the last time he took a bath of any kind, though it was definitely before the profound turn of events that reshaped this world and the world below.  Maybe it would not hurt to splash some water on his face and to comb his slick, oily hair with wet hands.  His appearance greatly needed a remedy.

 

- Soren Monroe, the Penitent Traitor - FLASHBACK, Lake Kresnik -

 

 

Raiden's forgiveness eased Soren's soul, though he was still wracked with grief, he would try to keep his cool in this dire situation. The Lord of Mystras posed the former Sentinel of Isopolis a question, one Soren could only meet with a shaken head and a sigh before answering. "No, I never studied the Arcane. Only Hellfire, Shadow and Brimstone respond to my commands...I'm sorry." He uttered solemnly, once again taking in the sight of Queen Shiva, bleeding out and suffering immensely, the damage dealt by a Feyslayer was not efficient nor was it merciful. Soren knew that Raiden wanted to save her, as did he, yet despite his internal rationalizations that she could be saved, Soren was plagued with a sinking feeling in his gut.

 

"You said it yourself, Raiden...she doesn't have much time left and that Assassin was thorough." Soren spoke, initially a shaken, yet reserved voice sounded, but as the reality dawned upon him, he quickly became distraught, doing his best to remain steadfast. "We...w-we, can't save her. Even if we kept pressure on her...her wounds, the bleeding is too much--" Soren soon choked on his words, stifling his grief, knowing that Raiden would be hard to console.

 

"My queen...Shiva, please speak to us...stay with us, just a little longer, I beg of you!" He uttered with great restraint, desperately trying not to shout or scream, as much as he wanted to comfort her in her last moments, he lacked the strength to see it through.

 

 

- Raiden, Mystras, Flashback -

 

Raiden blinked back tears as he watched the two.  Since Shiva's caring touch, he had difficulty keeping himself from being reduced to a blob of jelly at her inbound death, though he had to keep himself alert and prepared.

 

"There's no time left.  I must slip to meet the healer I spoke of.  I'm sorry, Soren."

 

He pulled out a crumpled card from the pocket near his chest and clutched it between two fingers before attempting to scoop up the queen in his arms and rising up.  With a flash of lightning, the two were off, heading in the direction of the two encampments.  A coruscation erupted from beneath the queen as the card -- a calling card -- sent forth a message ahead of him.  "The queen needs urgent healing.  If you are around like you said, meet me outside one of the encampments."

 

He scanned the card multiple times within a few minutes, and it was not long until he received an answer written on the crinkled paper in hastily scrawled lettering:  "Kilkes Seres camp.  I will be outside and south.  Travel quick."

 

"Hold on, Shiva.  You'll be safe soon," Raiden spoke, if not purely for her assurance then partially for his.  He only prayed that he would not arrive too late.

- Rabiyu and Sifrei - Mystran encampment - With Raiden and Alastor -

"The crowd is slowly gathering at the specified place as we speak, Your Lordship," Sifrei answered, "It is only a matter of minutes until we have them ready to listen to your speech. As for Mariel, I am sure she will return shortly."

The Judge Magister wondered for a moment about the situation back at the North, if the Tide Mother's anger had been managed to be quelled. There was also another matter that Rabiyu wished to discuss with the Lord of Mystras.

"If I may be allowed a moment, Your Lordship," Rabidu said calmly, "While we wait for Miss Mariel to arrive, I have something to tell you regarding a particular event that happened last night."

Said event was the unscheduled trip of both Arthur and Alex to the library. and about their findings, which, if were true, could prove the Black Witch's involvement with the curse placed on the human King's daughter.

"While not many important events happened last night after you left, there is one that I feel the need to inform you," she said, "I managed to observe two of your guests making a quick trip in the middle of the night to the library through the use of the Rune of...Those two were Knights Arthur Gancelot and Alex Marz, and while going to the library isn't the problem, the information that they found could pose a problem in the future if not handled with care."

"And what is that information, Judge Magister?" Sifrei said," What information could be so important for them to sneak into the library at night?"

Important one, if the reaction of Arthur was anything to go by, the boy had been very angry after finding out that Midnea had been one of the fey who had been in the world below.

"The information has to do with the Black Witch and her punishment for going to the world below. Her status as a former empress, experiments, and what kind of magicks she prefered to use. If such information is heard by King Alderon at this time we could have a problem in our hands. The Black Witch would try to deny it, but books about her former role are all around the Overworld if one knows were to look."

"In the middle of my fight against this "Punisher" she mentioned other ruler of the Overworld. We of the North did not took part in the Black Witch's punishment, or any other activity, so I knew we could rule out The Lady Leviathan and King Asura, Titan, King under the Mountain and his wife Gaia, Lord Ifrit, Lady Mateus, or-"

"Or any of the other rulers for that matter. But as I was saying, if this information reaches King Alderon then the Black Witch would be forced to take action, and as of right now, this would be a problem to all of us. If Midnea is indeed the one controling these "Punishers", as we suspect, then we would have to face against Kilkis Seres and Midnea at the same time, one is still inside the city at the moment, but I wonder how long her act will last. Imagine if the Witch decides to betray the King and take her chances with the Crown Prince of Kilkis Seres now that he will be taking the throne after his mother's passing."

Rabiyu was looking at the possibilities of Midnea reaching towards the Prince and how her actions could affect the tides of war. She had not fought against these so called Punishers, but if what Sifrei had said was true then they were fearsome opponents.

"In any case, that is my report, Your Lordship," Rabiyu said to Raiden, "I know this is sudden but I wanted to tell you as soon as I could. I apologize if this is not the right time, but I feel that there is no more "right time" anymore."

- Maxis#1 - The Mad - Kilkis Seres - Infiltration -

 

It took a while to find a safe way into the capital, now hiding in an alleyway out of sight in the commercial district. mostly avoiding detection, considering his appearance now, showing up would only cause more problems. And considering the guards are possibly in high alert with all these news, and rightly so, patrols around the streets were constant, with armored guards patrolling the streets, of course. It wasn't as big of security as it could be, they certainly had a meeting to attend to about the incident.

 

"...This is harder than I thought." Maxis spoke, frustrated, sitting in the alleyway with a Slav Squat. As He twitched and heard another voice in his head, another personality, which he had hundreds of already. 

 

'Why not ditch the menacing aura and just...you know... act normaly?'

'You telling me to blend in? have you looked at a mirror?'

'No, have you?'

'Good point.'

 

In a moment, Maxis's aura of madness would vanish completely, masking itself to the point one could not feel any magic coming off Maxis. This would allow him momentary reprieve and somewhat of an ability to walk around, he only really needed to avoid guards, seeing what seems like a bodyless hunk of armor would cause problems...or would it? Far as he knew, none other than Shiva and her men knew of his existence. There was no way they could assume he came to murder every man, woman and child in search of his target...right? At least they'd give him the benefit of the doubt. 

 

'Now that I think of it, I could stroll right into the place and ask to see whoever is in charge. That'd get me somewhere.' Maxis pondered.

'Ah, the fun plan.' One of the voices in his head spoke.

'Well it is one plan.' Maxis spoke, standing back up, and stretching his nonexistant body as he left the alleyway, and simply walked around Kilkis Seres.

 

Where was he heading? Right into the heart of it, where the Speech had taken place.

 

 

 

 

- Alastor - The Storm - Alongside Raiden - 

 

"You know doing so would undo everything you've worked for until now." Alastor commented on Raiden's consideration of that damn Hippie's words. Thankfuly, his friend seemed less than likely to do so, it was one  of the things that Alastor most respected of the man, his convictions, Raiden would hardly back down from his ideals. And to Alastor, the world was built on ideals.

 

Alastor stood silent as Rabyiu relayed the events that happened last night. "That is our own fault, for not executing her right then and there. Instead of banishing her to the world below." Alastor commented, harshly and with an air of 'I told you all so' in his tone. "Now we have to deal with her being in our world and scheming, with her own followers, probably to kill us all and take over. Just like in the past." Alastor continued in his rant, before stopping with a scoff, clearly pouting.

 

Alastor never understood the decision of exiling her, he knew it would only cause problems later.

 

With a sigh, Alastor spoke again. "She has been silent as of late. Still, I agree that said information should not reach the king's ears, considering our circumstances. Although we will have to face her and her punishers eventually, and when the times, we'l be no doubt weakened by the ongoing war. This is just a gold mine of opportunities for her." Alasto gave his insight on the matter.

 

"We should speak to the two who stole the information, to avoid Alderon of knowing." Alastor finished, folding his arms. Another problem, great.

 

"I'l see if I can speak to one of them before the meeting, until then." Alastor looked over to Raiden, who was somewhat fixated on looking at a water barrel. "Wash your face, you look like crap, no offense." Alastor spoke, this time in a sarcastic, but friendly tone towards his good friend. As he walked off.

 

 

- Henry Hansees - The Dreadnought - Now with a ferret on his head. - 

 

Henry stood in surprise at Helios's idea, standing still and waiting for whatever the boy would do. And what he did was not only impressive, but it pleased Henry greatly. 

As he felt FerretHelios climb up his arm, and then stopping and resting on top of his head. Henry sighed and smiled.

 

"Eh, just a quick swipe of hand can fix my hair, no problem. Plus I've always been a fan of ferrets." Henry spoke with a big smile on his face, he was happily surprised at all of this. As he watched the crowds forming. Then glancing to Aura.

 

"Yeah, lets go." He spoke as he motioned them to move on. 

--Queen Shiva --

Flashback:

 

Shiva couldn't focus on either of them for long.  Soren's words rang in her ears, though only parts of what he said could be fully comprehended.  Breathing was becoming difficult as she drew in frail and shallow breaths, her mind and body numb.  She felt herself slipping away, and it was becoming increasingly difficult to fight against the pull of surrender.  Of eternal slumber.  She closed her eyes momentarily before fixating them back on the Sentinel once more.  "Thank you, Soren.  I--am sorry that I doubted you."

 

And yet neither Raiden nor Soren were giving up on her.  Raiden, the man whom she had once sold her heart to, and still found had a strong tether to it, and Soren, a man who swore his life and dedication to her alone, even up till the end.  She felt Raiden lift her, and caught wind of something pertaining to a healer.

 

"Odin," she whispered softly.  "It . . . has been done.  You have to let me go."  She firmly gripped the front of his shirt, looking at him imploringly.  "Be the ruler that I could not . . . my love."

 

With that, her chin slipped to her chest, her body fully limb in the lord of Mystras' arms, as the queen of Kilkis Seres drew her final breath.

 

 

The queen's lids closed shut, lashes thick and laced with moisture.  It brought her heart much peace to know that Jynn would be well looked after, especially by someone she could trust.

 

"I would very much like that, thank you, Eclaire.  Thank you . . . for everything."

 

Her body began to fade in its entirety, leaving in its wake a shower of gold and pale blue sparkles.  The scent of her perfume was all that lingered, along with her voice that finally uttered: "And of course I love you, Eclaire.  Always."

 

With that, the queen of Kilkis Seres departed from the Overworld, living only within memory and those whose hearts she had touched.

 

--Yevgeni Malachite -- Kilkis Seres Campgrounds--

 

After stepping off the podium the blond's eyes shifted to the familiar golden mask.  The air of superiority, strength, and mystery.  He immediately knew who he was before he even beckoned for Yevgeni to make his way over.  A frown furrowed his brow, as he excused himself from one of Shiva's ambassadors and strode over to the man.

 

"Greetings, Nergal," he said smoothly, and then, with a slight note of irritation.  "I did not expect to see you here."

 

Anything that would raise a brow was something Yev was trying to avoid at all costs, and someone new in court may certainly raise a brow.  Especially if they were in any way affiliated.  Right now everything was sensitive and crucial; Yevgeni needed to play his cards right if he wanted to ensure the outcome he sought.  While he could work with the majority of Shiva's followers, there were a few that concerned him.  He would have to be especially careful in the company of Maxis and the queen's late retainer, wherever she went off to.

 

--Elia Cabret -- Kilkis Seres Campgrounds--

 

The raven-haired fairy was hugging her knees to her chest when Jari arrived.  She looked rather battle-worn, and Yevgeni's speech did nothing to lift her spirits.  It was indeed good to see the kitsune, especially since she was questioning how he fared the night prior.  The foxling had been quite the mess, perhaps more so than herself, and he seemed entirely incoherent when Elia finally helped him in his bedroll and left him for the night.  There was no doubt that Jari had been drunk, though she could hardly blame him.  The events from the day prior were incredibly painful, having lost a friend and now a queen.  The thought of drinking her problems away didn't exactly sound displeasing at that particular moment.

 

"No, you may sit," she responded stiffly, shifting slightly to make more room for him, even though it wasn't particularly necessary to do so.  There was more than enough room as it were.  "How are you feeling?  You look a little better.  Did you get any sleep last night after I left?"

 

For some reason it felt that Jari was the only friend that she had left now.  Ever since the war started those dear to her had flickered away one by one.  Either through death or disappearance; the reasons varied, though at times like these the young fairy felt very much alone.  Her gaze darkened as it lowered the ground, refusing to think of the sight of Morana's body.  It probably wouldn't take Jari much to guess what was on her mind, though she didn't wish to make him upset again.

 

--King Alderon -- Mystras campgrounds--

 

Flashback:

 

Alderon chuckled slightly, closing his eyes as he listened to Henry.  "It would seem that we finally agree on something," he said wearily, opening his eyes once more to watch the dreadnaught.  "And, so you know, I too hold nothing personal against you.  I think you are a young man of promise and devotion, dedicated to doing what you feel is right and aiding those in need.  You desire justice, or at least your sense of it, and will do what it takes to acquire it.  I believe that is where you and I clashed, but perhaps time can heal old wounds, and who knows: maybe one day we can start anew on a clean slate."

 

Whether Alderon truly felt this way, or if it were the pain and fever talking, was unknown, as he started to lose consciousness moments later.  The room first growing dark, and then all sounds fading away into the distance.

 

 

A smile ignited the weathered man's face as he clapped the younger knight on the shoulder.  "Indeed we shall," he urged, before moving from Alex's side to get lost in the cluster of people that moved toward the gathering place that Rabiyu had ordained for Raiden's speech.  Somehow Alderon hadn't realized that Raiden had returned until it was whispered among the crowd, though it did bring the king much relief.  He had many questions for the man, both pertaining to the rumored death of the queen and what would become of the world below now.

{Mariel: Mystras Camp}

Mariel lingered a moment as Helios, Henry, Aura, and Everyth continued to talk among themselves. They seemed an odd foursome, but these were odd days. She decided she may have to find them again after the speech, especially if Henry's aura meant what she thought.

Taking her leave, the Guardian Angel swept the camp again, telling those who seemed oblivious of Raiden's call. With most already congrating, she headed to join the main ranks of the listeners. As she passed through some deserted tents, her form seemed to haze, then resolidify as her human guise. Merging with the crowd, she pushed her way through to where Raiden was. As she moved, she listened to the buzz of the crowd. She heard the rumors repeated, declarations of disbelief, deep suspicion, disappointment, sorrow, and fear. She hoped Raiden's words would quell some of them, but some would not be until the true killer was caught.

Using her arms as a wedge to get through, Mariel appeared before Raiden and his assembled circle. The disguised angel gave him an informal salute.

"That seemed to be it, more or less." She reported, glancing at the crowd behind her. "Good luck with 'em."

With that, Mariel turned and melted back into the crowd. She couldn't risk that someone looking to target Raiden wasn't already here. He was capible and had enough obvious guards. She would hunt through crowd for suspicious activity. She briefly worried that Raiden might recognize this tactic from way back when and distract him, but she dismissed it. If he recognized it, then he would know to be ready.

- Soren Monroe, the Penitent Traitor - FLASHBACK, Lake Kresnik -

 

 

Raiden did not heed Soren's words, seeming just as desperate as he was to keep Queen Shiva alive, attempting to carry her off in search of a healer. Despite his best efforts, Shiva begged Raiden to listen to her one last time, uttering her final words, imploring him to be the ruler she couldn't be...before she exhaled her final breath and fell limp in Raiden's arms.

 

It would be a very long time before Soren made peace with this, but Shiva's forgiveness before death was enough to keep him from simply weeping right there on his knees, though his chest felt heavy and his breathing labored with sorrow and grief. Soren had followed Raiden as best he could, taking him by his shoulder in an attempt to get his attention, knowing the Lord of Mystras, now known to him by his true name of Odin, would be wracked with a similar despair, though he didn't know is Odin could keep his composure.

 

"Raide--...Odin, Odin, please! She's gone...we must heed her words." Soren spoke, a hint of desperation in his words, for he feared what was to come next. "You and I are traitors to Kilkis Seres...we'll be implicated in her murder." He then paused, clueless, before speaking up again. "What should we do?"

 

 

 

 

- Meksis, the Chaperone, Armour of Light - Kilkis Campgrounds Outskirts -

 

Still incapacitated by their failed mind melding, Meksis was powerless to stop Maxis from departing elsewhere, only able to clutch at his head in both hands as his Light and Dark energies wrestled for control. It felt like Meksis's mind was tearing itself apart, at least that was what the agony he was enamored by told him, though the constant, ethereal whispers of the Defiled echoing in and all around his mind did nothing to help him. If anyone were present, they could see the small cascade of energies flowing through and around Meksis, Light and Darkness ferociously clashing with one another, but never mixing or uniting in any form.

 

"You should let me handle things from here, dear Meksis. Let your old friend, Meksis, take the reigns. I can end yours and Maxis's torment..."

 

The first clear sentence was uttered to Meksis as he briefly entered his own mindscape. The entire, realm, so to speak, was at war with itself, the "walls" of energies were tearing and shearing, violent swaths of power flowed all around Meksis, and as he looked up from he struggle, the Defiled as well, who stood before him in the confines of his spilling mind. As before, he appeared as Meksis did, but infused with and consumed by rabid shadows masking blood red "eyes" beneath his visor. A devilish burst of a chuckle slipped from the Defiled's mouth as he lunged at Meksis, grasping his head with both hands and growling with an unmatched animosity and rage.

 

Meksis could only scream for a few seconds, desperately clawing at the Defiled's arms in a bid to get free. He could feel himself giving way...

 

"...b-by...my oath...I..wiil...not falter! Never...never to the likes of you!!"

 

Meksis declared as he grabbed onto the Defiled's wrists and forced himself to stand back up, glaring his Darkness right in the eyes and instead, he grasped him by the head and forced his will back into motion. Though it would not be as easy as he hoped, for the Defiled put up a fight and it seemed Meksis's eyes had deceived him, but, the Defiled appeared to be smiling.

 

"You and I will remain bound together, Meksis! Without me, you do not have the strength to save your blood brother! Now let us unite~"

 

In a burst of Light and Darkness, their forms seemed to mix together as Meksis in the real world woke back up.

 

- Meksis, the Divided -

 

The presence of the Defiled was now as real as when he took over, but Meksis still had control over himself...for now. Panicked and exhausted, Meksis fled into the Campgrounds of Kilkis Seres, desperately searching for the one person who could give him answers. As he approached a tent that of an alchemist, he rushed inside to meet with Ivany.

 

 

- Nergal, Remnant of Meksis, the Queenslayer - Kilkis Seres Campgrounds w/ Yevgeni -

 

"My apologies on such short notice, Yevgeni. I couldn't stay in the shadows forever." Nergal uttered, giving a small bow of respect to his new friend, looking over briefly at the attending crowd they had left. "I assume you know the deed is done. But when I was there, the Lord of Mystras...and a Demon, were present. Perhaps it would be best to implicate them? Or did you have other plans?" He explained, then proposed a suggestion, rolling his shoulders to ease some tension in his body.

 

"Nevertheless, I believe it would be best for me to be a more, familiar sight, rather than a mystery fellow who is discovered sneaking around and called into question. That and if we are to enact our future plans, we'd best do so sooner rather than later. I will do all I can to help you, for that is what I promised you, Yevgeni." Nergal assured the former retainer of King Alexander, placing a hand on his chest in sincerity as he concluded.

- Lord Raiden, flashback -

 

 

Raiden slowed to a halt as he took in the death of his beloved, and time seemed to stagnate as a surge of horror erupted from the deepest wells of his soul and out of his mouth.

 

"Shiva . . . SHIVA!  Don't die on me!  You'll be fine and back on your feet in no time!  SHIVA!"

 

His arms shook in horrible pulsations as his body refused to act in the manner he wanted.  He fell to his knees as he crumbled in defeat, and the queen slowly was lowered down to the ground.  For the first time in so many years, Raiden sobbed openly, the heat of his tears striking the cold of Shiva's breastplate.

 

He did not know whether it was before this or after Soren touched him by the shoulder, but the action comforted him only slightly.  Time seemed to take effect once again to Raiden, and he was able to count his heavy breaths enough to coax himself little by little.  The question the ex-sentinel of Isopolis proffered was thought-provoking enough too to stir within him an answer, and he raised his head to view the man.

 

"What we should do . . . is dole out justice for the ones behind this," he spoke through gritted teeth, anger sparking to life within fanatical eyes, "and may God have mercy on their souls because I will not.  Whether history will paint me a murderer or not, I will have my vengeance in an effort to right this wrong, though I will not willingly tarnish your reputation alongside mine."

 

As Raiden raged, an eerie sight occurred where his right orbit seemed to fade from existence entirely and be replaced by an emptiness for a fraction of a moment before coming into being again.  Raiden felt the strangeness as well, the return of the old namesake Odin One-Eye, and his eyes shrank back in horror as he looked away.  Such was not the time to be plagued by the ghosts of the past.  Instead it was time to look ahead, to aim for a future endowed upon him by Shiva . . . and a future that will not be shared with her killers.

 

 

- Lord Raiden, in the Mystran encampment -

 

Raiden's ears perked up at hearing about news which happened last night, fully expecting it to be concerning Midnea, but not expecting in the least that Arthur, the young romantic human, was involved in the process, along with another.  A frown furrowed his face as he rubbed his brow with his thumb and forefinger.

 

"So they know.  This is . . . frustrating news.  Like you both have mentioned, this can turn fortuitous very quickly for our enemies and dissatisfactory for us.  While I know much of that book's presence and wished to present it to King Alderon, there was no hardy evidence to support my case that Midnea might be the one who cursed his daughter, and telling without such information can stretch thin our already fragile alliance."

 

A hundred curses upon Midnea's head for involving herself so deeply with the king, Raiden thought to himself, displeased with the mad rush of terrible current events.  However, he knew that the show must go on and that he had to salvage what he could, and what better way to do so than with some of the best of allies?  Rabiyu had done him a huge service with her presence, and Alastor, even if he walked off, had brought a grin to his face and a laugh to his throat.

 

"You are not the first to say such things," he called out after Alastor.  "Such is old hat by now, good friend."

 

Next was Mariel, the disguised angel slipping in amongst the group and offering a salute, to which he nodded his thanks and smiled warmly.  Ever the dutiful person, Mariel, and her timing could not have been more impeccable.  Now the crowd was prepared and gathered, as were his words.

 

Thank you, Mariel," he voiced shortly prior to her slipping off, after which he turned towards the remaining two, "and thank you as well, Hisie and Sifrei.  Even if you are from the North and were directed to help, without your aid, and the aid of so many others, my efforts would be just railings against the heavens.  Please remain by my side while I give my speech.  It would give me much heart while I say what is necessary to everyone gathered."

 

Issuing one last simper towards his comrades, he migrated to the open water barrel and sprayed his face with a refreshing handful of water.  Gasping and feeling invigorated, he reset his hair one last time and pulled open the flap of the tent, stepping out into the open air.

 

The crowd was considerably large, but it found the room to part as Raiden stepped out into it and made his way to the middlemost point of the opening.  He looked around him and soaked in the anxiety, the fear, and the anger.  The rumours had spread considerably fast, at which Raiden surprisingly chuckled as he thought back to a quote from one of his books:  Nothing travels faster than the speed of light with the possible exception of bad news, which obeys its own special laws.

 

"Good people," he started out in a booming voice, the loudest he could muster, "humans and fey alike, hear me and hear me well.  If you look about, you may find the world seemingly under a different sun.  It has been so since Queen Shiva, the monarch of this realm for over two thousand years, has died last night.  The barrier has dispersed, and magic is now flowing freely away from the Overworld and into the world beyond, but at a cost."

 

A wave of gravity and sorrow overtook him as he conversed, and while the words clung to his throat he forced himself to continue, each syllable becoming a little more difficult.

"Last night, a parley was requested of the late queen, and an assassin of fiendish origin attempted to slay us both.  He cut her down in cold blood after our accord, even as we exchanged hands in an effort of mutual peace."

Malice blazed anew in his countenance as he thought back, and in a way he still felt her icy grip in his palm.  He swept his balled left hand in a fit of rage as he recalled it all.

"Knowingly he ripped away the brokered justice you and I strove for, and the brokered peace Seres strove for.  Soren, who some of you may have heard of, was with me at the time and can testify my case.  Together we combated this individual, but the assassin escaped and is still at large.  He will be dealt with, and justice will be served with a punishment fit for killing a queen whose only ambition was keeping her subjects happy.

"I request from you all a moment of silence for Shiva, sovereign of these lands for an age.  While she was our enemy on the battlefield, her thoughts were of the people, even to her final dying breath.  Such a dutiful steadfastness has earned my respect, as it should for all of you."

 

 

- Jari Coriander, with Elia in the Kilkis Seres campgrounds -

 

Jari only made the smallest of smiles as he sat near Elia, sweeping his tail out of the way before he did so.  The fairy did not seem particularly enthused in seeing him, and he could only make a thousand assumptions as to why this was the case.  The most glaring was Morana, and the second most glaring was potentially the fact that she caught on to the fact that he was drunk last night.  If he could have taken back his drinking to forget, he would have.  It was not worth potentially shaking the friendship they had.

 

"I feel a bit better, yeah.  My head is clearer after all that rest.  Thank you for helping me get back.  You did me a service back there, something I prob'ly didn't give last night."

 

As he confessed this, his eyes moved from her normally cheerful face to her hand.  He tried continuing, but words seemed to gum within his throat and block all breath.  With great effort of clearing his throat, he finally managed to do so.

 

"Elia, I . . . my mind's still fuzzy about last night, but I . . . I take it you know about what happened . . . why I was alone last night."

- Helios & Arthur - Side: Mystras - Lord Raiden's Speech -

As lord Raiden spoke, all kinds of emotions traveled across the tent. Many were in relief that Raiden had not been the one to have killed the queen, while concern rose at the fact that it was an assassin who had killed the queen instead. Someone working for a third party, it seemed. Whispers went rampant. Could lord Raiden be lying? Creating a diversion for his blame? But if he wasn't, who was this assassin? Who could benefit from this war? Was this all planned from the start? When Raiden spoke about the barrier had being broken, the magic finally flowing back into the world below, the humans gasped in surprise, sighing in relief as some cheers were made. Helios gasped, wagging his tail excitedly as he looked down. "The barrier...your world." Helios hummed. Arthur gasped, smiling as he looked up at his own group excitedly. This meant that home would begin to heal. Magic was going to return. Their world would no longer decline without resolution, and they could finally begin to recover. But relief was short lived, for the cost was just as large; peace. The assassination of the queen meant that the possible end to the war had died along with her, and now this war would enter into a new stage. Arthur gripped his fists tightly, frowning, but he was not surprised. It was equivalent exchange. To gain something, you had to give something. For the life of the world below...the many loves that this war would further take. As Lord Raiden asked for a moment of silence for Shiva's death, the tent went eerily quiet, not a single soul even breathing. Arthur lowered his head, frowning as he closed his eyes, paying his own respects. "(May you rest, Queen Shiva...and I'm sorry.)" Arthur thought, frowning momentarily. Helios lowered his head, thinking of Jynn. To the joy of the world below, now they had to solve the problem of the war, and if it ever did came to an end. "(Be strong, Jynn...the burden now falls on your shoulders. Oh how I wish it weren't so.)"

-Eclaire: Final Moments with Shiva-

 

She slowly stood. The words echoed in her mind, and despite it all, she manages a smile...a sad, tearfilled smile born from such a sorrowful battle. She reached out for the spot that Shiva had been, breathed in the perfume that still yet lingered. She closed her eyes and stood there quietly, feeling for the spark of life that was inside her...and such a spark it was. She could not sit here and mourn anymore. Shiva had asked, with her final moments, to watch after Jynn...to protect him. She had trusted her with her own son...her love.

"Always." She whispered, echoing the final word Shiva had said. She wiped the tears from her eyes, her face...but she could feel them, as if they were etched on her very skin. Eclaire shakily breathed in...she could not cry anymore. She had to see Shiva's final wishes through...she had to bring the peace Shiva wanted.

For the one person who looked at her and said... "You are not a mistake."

 

"Miss...?"

 

Her sorrowful reverie was broken. Fiona was standing at the door now, looking upon the ruffled mess that was Eclaire. Clothes hastily thrown on, barely fitted and fixed. Fiona smiled kindly, and walked over to take her hands. "Let us get you cleaned up, Miss." She said softly. "I believe there is something you wish to have...that you wish to take up." The maid gently pulled the woman's hands to her chest. "The Queen entrusted your care to me. So come. You are the Retainer of the Queen. Let us ensure no one questions that."

 

-Jeremy of Hunter: Jynn's Door-

 

The pain in the ass known as Jeremy of Hunter pounded on the Prince's door. "Oi. Kid. If you're in there, open up." He called. "Need to talk to you. Man to man." The Icarus sighed. The kid was going through a lot. But he had to known...he couldn't mourn forever. 

And Jeremy would be damned, he swore, if he let someone fall into despair. At least...not alone.

 

-Rhaedyn Thane, with Mikhail-

 

"There is a forest that Shiva was traced to. If we follow the signs of the Queen, we shall find the site of the deed." The Iron Lord paused,weighing his words. "I know little of how the body was returned. All I know is that there was magic. Ancient...magic. Not of the likes of the normal folk. Magic of regents...Kings...and demons. Within the grove shall be our first clue - the magic that was present when the Queen was struck down. And, if we find Regent in Standing, we might learn more. Yet...His eyes show nothing. I do not trust this...Yevgeni." Thane turned his back to Mikhail, the cloak plastered with the Tree of Ithuriel, or the Ithurian Tree. "Let us go. Justice shall come on the swiftest wings."

- Rabiyu and Sifrei - Mystran encampment -

"It will be done, Your Lordship," both judges said at the same time.

Rabiyu and Sifrei watched as Raiden went outside and both immediately followed behind the Lord of Mystras. There was a considerable amount of people who came to listen to Raiden's speech, Rabiyu could recognize most of them, at least those who stayed at Raiden's villa. And then came the speech.

"The sudden disappearence of the barrier was indeed the cause of such phenomenon it seems," Sifrei whispered to Rabiyu.

"Indeed. The Overworld is trying to compensate for the magical energy that is flowing into the world below. We knew this was a possibility, but thanks to the events of last night we will have to walk this path." Rabiyu answered quietly.

The judges noticed the slight change in Raiden's speech patern, both of them understanding the source of such change. Taking about the Queen of Kilkis Seres was hard for the Lord and they knew that. Raiden then asked for a moment of silence, Sifrei gave Rabiyu a quick look before closing his eyes.  Rabiyu had other plan in mind, she did close her eyes, but she focused on being back home.
 

 

 

 

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

The throne room became clear once Judge Magister Eliltari opened her eyes. The nobles were now gone, and the throne room was mostly fine, only the windows remained destroyed. Eliltari noticed that Lady Leviathan was no longer there, but two figures were, those of King Asura and Mielinare.

"It seems you are back, Sapling. Are you alright? I figured that the backlash from the Lady's awakening must have cut the spell," Mielinare said calmly without looking at the judge magister, "Before you ask, yes, the Lady as been subdued and her vessel is currently taking care of her."

Asura looked between Mielinare and Eliltari before letting out a tired breath.

"I apologize for such event, Judge Magister, but even you must have realized that if my wife learned about the Frostbearer's death she was going to react..." he said flatly, "In any case, why have you returned?"

"The Lord of Mystras is currently giving a speech to his subjects and the humans that resides in Mystras for the time being. My suspicions were true, Your Highness. His Lordship and the Frostbearer's former sentinel fought against the Queen's murderer, we have confirmation that he was not the one who betrayed the Queen."

Asura closed his eyes for a moment. Those were good news, but there was still the matter of who that responsible for such act.

"This assassin who dared to harm a ruler of the Overworld must be found and brought to justice, Judge Magister, they must pay for their actions. You will keep helping Raiden of Mystras, keep your eyes open for any sign of the assassin."

Eliltari bowed sightly, she was going to do as ordered, not only because it was her job, but because she believed in what Raiden was trying to do. The young elf looked at the Fire Nymph in front of her, she was giving her a gently smile behind that porcelain mask of hers, she knew it, and without another word Eliltari traveled back to her physical body.
 

 

 

 

 

- Aura - Mystran encampment -

Aura had been listening to the speech of Raiden, and was both sad and happy whit what she heard. The world below was going to be saved now that the energy of the overworld was flowing into the world below,but the cost of such blessing was the death of a royal, of a ruler of this world. To be honest, Aura didn't liked the Queen of Kilkis Seres, she had judged them without really knowing any of them, but she didn't deserved to die, not in such way.

"Find peace at the Fields of Elisium, Queen of Kilkis Seres. May your soul be guided by the hand of the Nameless Goddess, granted rest, and find happiness beyond the Divine Gate."

She was not a religious person, but Rabiyu once told her that people believed that the journey of a person continued once they left their mortal bodies and the Nameless Goddess delievered their souls to the other side. A new journey beyond what Rabiyu had called the Divine Gate. Maybe this was the "heaven" that the priests often mentioned when she was a child. She hoped that the Queen could find peace in the next life. For now, she was going to close her eyes and remain silent.
 

Edited January 25, 20187 yr by Elrandir

Jynn Venas-Abode with Typhon

 

Jynn rose to his feet as Typhon tries to encourage him to come inside as to avoid frostbite, ignoring the tone Typhon gives out. He hands the cyph the letter. "Raiden's my father. I should've known." He begins to head back inside, but pauses. "Am I the only one who didn't know about this?" Suddenly, someone appeared at the door and banged it. How did he find this place? Even Raiden, one of the most wisest fey in the Overworld, has no idea that this place exists, or at least its whereabouts. Regardless, the stranger seemed desperate. Jynn walked up behind him. "Can I help you?"

 - Mikhail - The old Witcher - Kilkis Seres with Rhaedyn - 

 

Mikhail stood silent and listened carefuly to what Rhaedyn had to say, man certainly has a boon to his voice. What he heard intrigued him greatly, ancient magic? something thought long forgotten, something none really knew what it was. It was clear to him that this wasn't just your regular assassination investigation, but Mikhail wasn't one to back down from work. He stepped off his chair as he finished his drink, leaving some money on the counter as payment as Rhaedyn turned around to walk out the door.

 

"Lets go before the trail grows cold." Mikhail commented as he followed Rhaedyn out of the tavern. "And just between the two of us, I don't trust this Yevgeni either." Mikhail finished.

 

 

- Typhon - The Cyph - With Jynn - 

 

Jynn didn't seem to pay much attention to Typhon's words, the boy handed him a letter, and a passing comment from the boy as well. "To be fair I didn't even know letters were still a thing." Typhon commented dryly as he read the letter with no shame whatsoever. 'Well she certainly had a way with words, good writting too, if she wasn't queen she had a good shot as a book writter, too bad I guess.' Typhon thought as he heard someone knocking on the door. Which Jynn had already went to investigate, which was easy, they were outside after all. 

 

Figuring he didn't have much time to hide Typhon simply shrugged, and continued looking over the letter, ready to overheard the conversation.

 

 

- Henry - The Dreadnought - Raiden's Speech -

 

Henry didn't feel sad as he heard Raiden's speech, he didn't feel sorrow, he could only feel one type of emotion. pure anger, rage, if Henry had a sin, it would be wrath without a doubt, his rage is what fueled most of his actions that led to him being there to this day, and Raiden's speech only served as more fuel to the never ending fire in Henry's soul. 

 

'You want to make a prayer?' Henry thought to Ariana.

'I...don't know if I should.' Ariana spoke, her tone down.

'If you had respect for her, do it. She was your queen at one point.' Henry thought back.

'Why won't you pray as well?'  Ariana asked, confused.

'It is better that I don't.' Henry spoke, ending the conversation there. As ariana made a few light prayer inside his head, Henry closed his eyes for a second, he could not feel sympathy or sorrow for Shiva's death, he didn't care for the woman, who held the barrier that kileld his world for so long, regardless if she was a victim or not. But he knew this situation was not good, this would only bring more conflict.

 

Henry had to speak to Raiden after this speech, in private, if he could.

 

 

- Alastor, Alex and Draksis - The Storm, The Prodigy and The Black Knight - Amidst the crowd during Raiden's speech -

 

Arthur would soon feel the cold steel of Alastor's gauntled hand holding onto his shoulder. Alastor was not wearing a helmet, deciding it was mostly for more serious and less sad occasions, Alastor's sudden appearance surprised Alex and Draksis alike, whom had been standing beside Arthur and King Alderon during the speech. Interrupting Alex and Draksis's prayers to Queen Shiva. Alex looked at Alastor in surprise and confusion. As Alastor shot a glare towards him that made Alex's spine tingle, as if it had been electrocuted in such a small way that it gave him a shocking sensation stopping the knight in his tracks as he was about to head over to ask Alastor what he wanted with Arthur.

 

"We need to speak." Alastor's words were that of a razor sharp blade cutting through  the air, the intensity and seriousness of his voice was clear. "In private. Follow me." Alastor spoke, awaiting Arthur's reaction.

Edited January 27, 20187 yr by Scrapmaster

- Arthur - Side: Mystras Rebellion - w/ Alastor - Private Meeting -

Arthur felt his heart jump to his throat as he felt the firm grip of Alastor's hold on his shoulder. He opened his eyes, looking back at Alastor, surprised to see him without his helmet. However his gaze and tone told him more than enough to know what this was most likely about. His glare to Alex only confirmed it further, Arthur feeling his stomach drop. Every instinct in his body screamed for him to run, to hide, to beg for forgiveness, to even draw his sword in a last fight. Thankfully however, his training instructed him otherwise. He had lived long enough to know the tune of someone who was in trouble. And damn, he was in big trouble. He gently glanced back at Alex, and then at Draksis, before bowing his head to them, and then to the king. Straightening up, he turned to face Alastor, though he refused to look at him in the eye, instead looking downwards at his feet. "L...Lead the way, sir." Arthur asked, resting a secure hand over his messenger bag as he followed Alastor. "...what...what do you need to talk about with me?" He asked. He would play dumb. That usually worked. At least, until he knew how much Alastor knew. Then again, looking like a kicked puppy might not be working in his favor, either. The little knight might've bitten off more than what he could chew.

- Alastor - The Storm Blood - With Arthur -

 

Alastor escorted Arthur to somewhere more private, where there were less prying eyes to spy on what they were about to speak of, Alastor's steps had the weight of a mountain in pressure, possibly scaring Arthur more than he had already done so, Arthur would be led to Alastor's tent, whereas the two would speak.

 

Alastor stopped midway through the tent, as the atmosphere was filled with electricity all of a sudden, Arthur would feel a slight jolt in his skin as Alastor turned around to face him, Alastor's eyes serious and cold. 

"I dragged you here to speak of two matters" Alastor spoke, gesturing a two with his hand as he did so, his voice bellowing and intense. 

"First. A little bird has told me you and your friend raided Raiden's library last night." Alastor spoke, his tone getting more menacing as he continued. "Now if you had just went there to read some books I wouldn't be having this talk with you, however, you two went and took something that isn't yours. And I know it is about who I think it is." Alastor spoke, short and heavily as he folded his arms. 

 

"I won't ask you to give the book back, since it seems to me that not even Raiden himself is that worried about the book. But more about what you and your friend do about the information within it. I don't think I have to lecture you on how dangerous that information is if it gets spread out now." Alastor bellowed to Arthur. The intensity of the electricity in the air becoming more and more powerful. 

 

The atmosphere was nothing but a test that Alastor was applying to see if his suspicions of Arthur posessing Lightning magic were true, if Arthur had an affinity to the element, not only would he be fine with the atmosphere getting more electricity, but lightning would begin crackling around the boy as well. All lightning users had this instinctive reflex, too much electricity in the air, the  bodies would automaticaly start absorbing it and it would show off on their body pretty quickly. "And second."

 

"I want to know why a human posesses the power of Lightning." Alastor spoke.

 

 

 

 

 

- Ivany - The Mad Alchemist - With Meksis - 

 

Meksis would walk into Ivany mixing potions in her tent, trying to come up with a new mixture that could remove rust off soldier's weapons more effectively, as repairing magic was much too expensive to employ for an army. Too bad she had little success with it as it seemed.

 

Ivany noted the flapping of her tent's entrance as Meksis rushed in, he looked like he'd been through hell. And the armor probably was. 

"Meksis?" Ivany asked in surprise. Moving in close to try and help Meksis to stand, and lead him to one of her chairs. 

 

"What happened to you?" Ivany spoke, but as she looked at him her eyes narrowed in shock, almost as if she already knew what was going on. 

"Don't tell me you're corrupted as well..." Ivany asked him, her voice sorrowful.

Edited January 28, 20187 yr by Scrapmaster

- Arthur - Side: Mystras Rebellion - w/ Alastor - Private Meeting at Alastor's Tent -

 

Arthur followed Alastor, keeping his sight on the floor or anywhere away from the man himself. It was like he was being surrounded by this suffocating feeling, making him feel so scared he couldn't even think straight. The moment he stepped into the tent, however, was another story. The environment filled itself with a charge, Arthur's skin prickling as he gasped at the sudden energy. It was a familiar feeling. He'd felt it before, in the battlefield after being hit by a stray bolt of lightning, right before he killed that Fey. The electricity made him feel energized, almost hyper as this sudden energy began to fill him up. He listened to Alastor, glaring at the floor slightly. As he spoke his voice became louder, and the electricity around him became more overwhelming, to the point sparks were beginning to fly off his skin even when he tried to hold it in. When Alastor questioned him about his lightning, however, Arthur decided it wasn't any good to trying to hide it any longer. He took a deep breath, before sighing, suddenly lightning crackling against his skin, dancing around him  protectively as it jumped from one place to another. His eyes had this gleam, this pulsing glow. But not only did it give him power, but it made him feel...comfortable. Complete. He shook his head, looking up at Alastor. "I..." He paused. "My father, turns out wasn't so human after all. He calls himself a Raiju...whatever that is." He explained, though it still seemed foreign in his own words. He thought for a moment about the information part, however. How dangerous it was to have discovered it. How dangerous it could be for it to even be rumored on about. His voice sent chills down Arthur's spine, but something else seemed to push any fear away; anger. Anger at everything. Anger at Midnea. Anger of the fact that they very well damn knew who this person was and they didn't say a thing. He scoffed a bit. "To be honest...everything so far has been dangerous, hasn't it? Is it really any different now?" He asked, looking up again. "What gives you the right to keep this from us? Then tell me, sir Alastor, how long should we keep this information for? Days? Months? Years?!" He asked, the electricity reacting to his emotions such as with any untrained being. Raw, untrained, and dangerous. "Visco doesn't have years!" Arthur screamed, gripping at his chest where the letter still lay. "We came to this world in hopes of finding a cure to our princess. A cure of what that witch did to her for no reason other than she wanted to! The cure has been right under our noses this entire time, and you want me to keep quiet about it?! You knew! You knew that she was this witch! That she had been sent to our world for these types of crimes, and yet you all kept quiet!" Arthur screamed, his shriek hidden by the sudden crack of lightning just outside the tent. "Don't get me wrong. I am grateful. We're all grateful. We came to you from another world and you received us with open arms, fought a war to save our world despite having the option to turn the other way. There is nothing we could possibly do for a hundred years that could make up for doing what you have done to our world. But..." Arthur gritted his teeth, holding at his chest. "Visco doesn't have forever. A single year for her is like 8 years forced together. In a year she will be a full grown adult. In three she will be older than my mother! She might not even live long enough to complete a decade! She will die before her father!" Arthur felt his whole body shake as tears escaped his eyes. "She doesn't deserve what she has been dealt with despite the sins of the king. I can't let that witch get away with killing her!!! You may have let her get away before unscathed, but I will not do the same mistake!" Arthur screamed, the lightning uncontrollable at this point, leaving scorch marks on the floor beneath. He took a deep breath, looking at Alastor right in the eyes. Fear be dammed. "So unless you can create a cure for my princess yourself, I will tell the King the information he well damn deserves to know! Being a soldier means to face danger in order to protect their people. As a soldier, I want to understand your concern, to keep my mouth shut and follow orders as I had always done. But...as the man who loves Visco, I will gladly risk everything if it means to save her life!!!" 

~Aqua: At her Tent with Curvis, Kilkis Seres camp ground~

Aqua gave the male a curt nod. “I understand, I don’t wish for any harm to befall you either.” She gave a dry chuckle. “I’m only sorry I couldn’t give you the help you’ve needed.” She pulled a bag off her back. “I wish to help you in some way, do you need any supplies? Clothes, food, water? Anything?” She asked kindly. 

 

She heaved a sad sigh. “I really wish to help you in some way.” She at least wanted to help him in some small way. “And no need to call me ‘Lady’ I’m not more important than you.” Aqua looked away. “Ah...unless that’s normal for you.” She trails off. “I’m...ah..sorry things turned out this way.” 

 

Aqua looked down. She could hear Yev’s speech from her tent and she felt disappointed. “I thought he didn’t want a war…”

- Alastor - The Storm - Arthur's interrogation -

 

"Your father is a lightning beast?" Alastor scoffed, "You don't see that every day." He commented dryly.

 

Alastor stood steadfast at Arthur's outbursts and responses, even with the boy's lightning outbursts, his raw and uncontrolled energy were a threat mostly to himself, as outbursts like that could easily endanger the wielder's life. Alastor simply looked at Arthur dead in the eye as the boy shouted, screamed and when Arthur finaly got to the last statements. The boy would be interrupted by Alastor flash stepping to him, delivering a punch aimed at the boy's gut, to promptly shut him up, abd strong enouhg to knock the boy on his ass if it landed.

 

"Listen to yourself." Alastor spoke, this time in a tone aimed at dimishing Arthur, "Raving without thinking clearly." Alastor spoke, grabbing Arthur by the collar, "Yes, the rulers of our world decided it was best to exile her to the world below, I would have gladly had her executed." Alastor answered Arthur's beginning statements before letting go of the boy. "You tell your king about her, what will he think? And what will Midnea do? She will hide, she will plot more than she already does, she will sic her punishers on us and there will be more meaningless death, possibly even the death of Alderon himself if you talk." Alastor spoke, turning his back to Arthur as he stepped to gain distance between them.

 

"She currently plots to take over the overworld, and we're already too spread out as we are with the remaining of Shiva's army and the continuation of the war, you rat her out, you're adding a new faction into this conflict. Now do you understand?" Alastor spoke, his voice clear and direct, but serious. 

 

"Act reckless like that and you will be dead before you can get near her, her followers will murder you and everyone you know and care about, and with your pitiful magic power you won't even put a dent in them." Alastor taunted Arthur's untrained power, and add in a few good points of what would happen if the boy spoke to Alderon about it.

 

"If you truly love her, charging right in is not the solution, we will deal with Midnea in due time, Arthur, and I assure you that I will see to her demise and your princess's cure myself. But you can't be reckless with this." Alastor spoke, turning around and looking at the boy dead in the eye. "And besides you won't get far with your power the way it is. You over use it and you'l soon be expending your own life force on it, uncontrolled magic has a horrible strain on one's body." Alastor pointed out.

Edited January 28, 20187 yr by Scrapmaster

 

 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nDq6TstdEi8

 

 

 

- Arthur - Side: Mystras Rebellion - w/ Alastor - Private Meeting at Alastor's Tent -

 

Arthur gasped for breath, falling onto his knees at the punch. It was the kind of pain that he didn't feel it at first, but slowly spread and made it unbearable. He held coughing up as he gasped for breath, drool escaping his lips. He glared up at Alastor, snarling his teeth at him even as he pulled him by the collar. Regardless he listened, and he only felt more angry at every word. Not because of Alastor or even because of the punch, but because of the fact that he spoke the truth. The unbearable, angry, and disappointing truth. This was beyond his capabilities. Beyond his reach. Greater than himself or Visco or even the King himself. This was something in the making for years, and if they didn't thread carefully, it would all have been for nothing. No matter how much he trained, no matter how hard he fought...he was a simple pawn in a game that he had no right to be involved in. A half-breed who couldn't even control his powers properly. He couldn't do anything about it, and that was easily the hardest fact to swallow. When Alastor let go of him, Arthur allowed himself to collapse on the floor, his fists gripping the dirt below tightly. Tears escaped his eyes, drops falling on the floor beneath as the rain followed him like it had done that day. "(I still can't do a damn thing...!)" Arthur thought, sobbing. He held his chest tightly. By this point the envelope was wrinkled, the flowers inside still alive only for what they were. Visco. "(I can't do anything for you...)" He thought, his eyes narrowing for a moment before anger rose again. No, there was still time. There was still much he could do. If Alastor didn't kill him, his own stubbornness would get him killed himself. The sparks that surrounded him suddenly stopped their dance, simply pausing as if time itself had done the same. "Then teach me." Arthur asked, a charge in his tone, rubbing away his eyes as he forced himself to stand. He glared at Alastor, fire in his eyes as they gleamed with sparks. "Teach me, Alastor." He demanded. "Teach me how to control my power. Teach me how to kill that witch and save Visco." Arthur took a step forward, getting closer to Alastor. If there was any fear, it was now funneled by his mother's stubbornness and pride, his veins glowing beneath his skin out of pure adrenaline and emotion.  "Teach me how to help fix this mess your own people have caused to Visco! If you won't teach me, I'll find someone else who will! But I swear, Alastor, I will not allow for the mistakes that costed her her freedom to be repeated." Arthur declared, not stopping until he was right in front of the knight once more, staring him right in the eyes. "If I see that you let it slide, that justice isn't going to be brought...that you would lie to us again...Not even you will be stopping me from going after Midnea myself." Arthur insisted, hissing as he held his fist tightly, the sparks only growing in size before a single bolt lit the sky above, brightening the tent in a blueish glow. Was his shadow no longer human, or was that a trick of the eyes? Arthur kept his head up, not planning on backing down. If death was on his mind, he did not show it.

 

"So...if you think yourself so wise and so powerful as to make me change my mind...then teach me to see the world as you do. Teach me to be the son of a lightning beast."

Edited January 29, 20187 yr by Stardustblade358

-Rhaedyn Thane, with Geralt Mikhail, the Witcher-

 

"Let us go then, Witcher. Enough time has passed. Justice shall be delivered." The man turned and headed for the exit, cape swishing in a way that was way too cool to just be done naturally.

 

 

 

-Jeremy of Hunter, with Jyn-

 

"..." he glanced around. "Damn, that actually worked. Found you." he looked utterly pleased. "Okay so, man to man. Week's been crap. But right now, some guy named Yevgarry...no...Yevgreg...Yengaruda...Yev-Something-With-A-G has called himself Acting Regent, he's already marshalling, yada yada. Because you're here." Jeremy paused. "I get it...I know. I lost my mother a long time ago. The pain will never go away. I'm not going to sugar coat and force feed you such crap. That wound won't heal, Jynn. But I want to let you know something. I'm here, the Order and the angels? Why do you think we're here?" He smiled a bit. "We saw the sides...we heard the messages. Most stood aside...but we chose a side. Because we saw Shiva. We saw a queen who wanted her people safe. Who put everything she had, worrying about those who trusted her. We saw a ruler who put her people before herself. She made mistakes, yes. But do you think she died for nothing? She died believing in a few things. Kilkis Seres...and you." He patted his shoulder. "You need time to grieve. But you have to decide something, Heir to the Throne: is the time to grieve now, while your Kingdom is at war...or should you put aside your feelings and, briefly, be the King your mother would have wanted. I know what it's like, leading. I lead my people, a people destined to fail at everything. And we have flourished. So, Jynn." He turned away. "Don't be consumed by grief. Remember the good, don't fear failure. And always remember...your mother loved you. So don't let her down by hiding away for too long, and letting Yevgerry take over." He began heading away.

"And before you ask, I did my utmost to not find you." he waved over his shoulder. "Work with what you go."

 

 

-Eclaire-

 

 

Eclaire followed Fiona through the castle. The mood had been as somber as the day Raiden had returned the fallen queen to her domain, and currently her body rested in her mausoleum, awaiting the final ceremony...but she would be less a single article of burial that had been left at her side. The sword, some calling it Sapphique due to the brilliant sapphire in the hilt, others calling it Silverlight by the sheen, but known by most as the rumored Dragonbane, the Sword that Slays Dragons with a single touch. To Eclaire, though, it had always been Shiva's sword. And now, as they approached the guards, Eclaire turned to Fiona. "Please go and send messages to Shar'aia of Mare Luxerion, residing upon the Wandering City of Hunter, and my Mother, Xion Izanami, Regent of Mare Luxuria, also in Hunter."

"What do you wish to convey?"

Eclaire looked away. "Dearest friend, dearest Mother. I, Eclaire, Bloodline of the Queen of Valkyries and Queen of Succubi, request at once a Sphere of Altriana, and a Sphere of Izanami."

Fiona looked confused. "What are they...?"

"...within the Valkyrie and Succubi cultures, we do not name swords as callously as humans. You may inscribe the name Backbiter, name it after legendary blades such as Sol Katti, Raijinto, Widow's Wail...but for us, we have a ritual. We consecrate the name of a blade so it may be such legend. These spheres I ask for, are imbued with essence of the First Valkyrie, and First Succubi. They are passed down, and through them we ask the Firsts for their blessing. Some say it is but a ritual, and there is but light. Others have claimed Altriana stood before them, and handed them their sword. Succubi have sworn Izanami herself kissed them, feeding them essence for their blade." She turned to the guards. "I care not what story is trues. But I am done running. I am done fearing...and for what I wish to do, I shall accept both halves of myself. The Valkyrie who wishes to protect...and the Succubus, who wishes to consume."

 

Fiona bowed. "As you wish." She said, before hurrying off to send messenger owls. For Eclaire, she stepped forward. "Stand aside. I, Eclaire, Retainer of Shiva, demand entrance."

Her voice was clear, crisp, and not a waver. No...her fear would return, but not now. She stood straight and tall, her eyes piercing the guards. They took her in, then turned to face each other, and entered an At Ease state. "Yes, My Lady!" They spoke in unison. Their spears glowed, and the mausoluem opened. Eclaire bowed to them. "Thank you." She said, and stepped inside.

 

Light filtered in through a single stained window, all colors playing across the room. Awaiting her final ceremony was Shiva. The sheet covering her hid the greivous wounds, and clasped over her chest in her hands was what Eclaire came for. Still sheathed, Eclaire walked forward, and stood over the body of the woman she loved. Her heart beat painfully, her eyes grew tearful...then she saw the Lance of Eidolith, and took it up did she, storing it within her Magic Armor. Eclaire then knelt before her Queen's body, and bowed her head.

"I swear upon thy sword, I will see your legacy uplifted, your life avenged...but above all, on thy silver sword, Queen of Kilkis Seres, I swear to protect Jynn with my life. I, Eclaire, who holds no name, who holds but one title - Retainer of the Queen - swear upon all I am." She took in a breath, and stood. She gently removed the silver sword of Shiva from it's resting place, and placed it on her back.

It would not be held within her Magical Armory. It would remain out, for all to see. And...she then leaned down, and kissed Shiva's cold forehead. "...I am sorry...I wish...I wish, I could have told you my feelings in person...not in spirit." She straightened up, then bowed.

"I will never fail you."

 

She turned away from the body and stepped out. "Thank you."

The guards merely nodded, sealing Shiva away once more as Eclaire left them, heading once more up the gilded stairs, where she would find Fiona waiting outside her room.

"The owls are sent." She curtsied. "What shall I -" Fiona was cut off as Eclaire took her in her arms and began kissing her. Fiona's eyes wide, she panicked briefly before feeling tired...so tired...

Eclaire carried her inside, and laid her down. "That will be all, Fiona." Shes said softly. "I am sorry for being so greedy and rude...but time is of the essence." She knelt, and bowed her head. "You are the only person in this castle I can call friend. I pray that you rest, and forgive me for my rudeness."

"I...idiot." Fiona managed to say. "J...just....ask..."

"..." Eclaire merely chuckled. "You are sworn to my service...but not as food. You are a maid, but also a friend. I won't take life from you so callously -" and Fiona passed out. Eclaire sighed. Bit too much...took a few minutes for sure. She gently brushed her hand against Fiona's forehead, then closed the door behind her, before leaving the Castle once more.

 

The Floating City of Hunter

 

Eclaire alighted down upon the cracked flagstones of the Wandering City. Before her stood Shar'aia, Fensalir on her back, and Xion, who looked as if she should be freezing but did not even flinch. Eclaire knelt before them both, a child of two worlds.

"Regent of Luxerion, Regent of Luxuria. I come requesting a Sphere of both Kingdoms. I am not Valkyrie, nor Succubus, but both. I wish to name my blade under the eyes of Altriana and Izanami."

Shar'aia opened her mouth, about to speak...but Xion cut her off with a single action - by extending a small chest adorned with Succubi Script.

"Take it, Eclaire, Heir of Izanami." She said. "I offer it without question nor apprehension, I offer it not as Regent but as your mother. I will never be able to earn forgiveness for what I did to you, Eclaire. But I can try." She looked away, her eyes filled with shame, her body limp...but Shar'aia stepped forward and rested a hand on her shoulder, and offered an identical chest, this one with Valkyric Script. She smiled.

"Take it, Eclaire. And know, that no matter what home you find yourself in - the Mares of Light and Lust will forever have a place for you." She gently pushed Xion forward, who again looked at her daughter...and then hugged her.

"...I...am so proud." She whispered. "You did not give up...you kept going...and now, you're the woman I always wanted to be." She didn't let go. "...I love you, Clary. You will forever be my Light."

Eclaire felt her eyes welling with tears. Her arms encircled Xion, holding her tightly. "You made mistakes...but we are not infallible...none of us are." She whispered. "Just knowing how much you love me...just knowing how much..." She squeezed her. "I forgive you, mother."

 

Eclaire gently pulled away, and her wings flared to existence. On her right, the white-gold wing of a Valkyrie...and to her left, the purple-black dragon wing of a Succubus. She looked at the two, and bowed a single time.

"Until the dawn rises."

"Until the dawn rises." Shar'aia said with a smile. "Go. And remember...no one's been as crazy as you, so uh...no telling if you'll hallucinate like others or just lose your mind. Good luck!"

And so, Eclaire took to the skies, and banked, heading once more, for the Ambrosia Forest.

 

Shiva's Home, Ambrosia Forest

 

The door creaked open before Eclaire, illuminating the dark interior. It seemed eons ago that she had come forth to this place for refuge, to live out a meager existence and die quietly, fearful of dying yet fearful of life...but now, as she once more entered this quiet home, did Eclaire see life in a new way. Pushing anything out of her way, she created a massive open area in the middle of the floor. She could remember exactly where she stood within the room...where Shiva was. And now, with steele in hand, she began inscribing the first of the Circles needed for the ceremony...and as she inscribed it, she did not merely use Succubi Script, nor Valkyric script. Eclaire intertwined the twin languages, creating circles that were a marriage of both bloods...and as she began with the first central symbol, her mind wandered. She guessed she was around two thousand years old...

 

Flashback: Jian Dao

 

 

 

The Mountains of Tor'Ket, fifteen hundred years ago

 

"Slash! Thrust! Block! Parry!" The man's voice rang out, loud and strong. His beard was like the healthiest oak, his skin as dark as the clay of his villa, his voice a mighty gong that would echo. Eclaire followed every directive, her sword clanging against the training dummy, puncuating every word. Her body was covered in sweat, her hands chaffed from the hours of training, her body weary from such a long ordeal...but still she persevered. Still she struck and struck and struck, blocking, parrying, everything her Master said. She would not give up...she would learn.

"Enough."

She stopped, and fell to a knee, panting. She could barely think straight, feeling no saliva in her mouth. She gulped, a dry, pained one, before looking at him. He towered over her, hands clasped behind his back, his stern face crushing her further. He then offered a small flask.

"Drink."

She took it and gulped the water down. Finally, her mouth was wet and some of the soreness started to fade. She took a few more gulps, before he turned his back to her. "That is enough. Meet me in the main hall when you are ready." He said curtly. She hung her head. Her time here was at an end. Almost one hundred years of endless training with a blade, honing her skills, learning how magic and swordplay intermingled and created a synergy, an arpeggio of destruction that would leave her enemies dead. She struggled to stand, and sheathed her sword. Stumbling towards the main building, she panted, trying to regain her breath. It had been hours upon hours of this, drilling the fundamentals into her yet again...every other month he'd make her do so.

And there he was. Standing there, back to him, he was a gaunt figure, tall and lean, yet rippling with strength. He was an elf of unparrelled swordplay, and her master.

"I know." He did not turn to her. "You are the succubus who nearly devoured Shin-Ki-Tong's daughter."

"..." Eclaire slid to her knees. "I did not...I didn't mean too hurt her...I lost control...t...the hunger..."

"You came to my roof, and prostrated yourself to me. I demanded but one thing - honesty. You claimed you were but an orphan, disowned by a mother, left behind by a father. I believed you...yet you did not tell me the whole truth. That is tantamount to lying. How can I train a liar?" He still did not turn to her.

"I..." She choked. "I...am a mistake. The offspring of a Valkyrie, of a Succubus, created in error in a union unholy. Y...you..."

"Would have trained you." He turned. "Mistakes enter my sight every day. And only mistakes lie." He looked down upon her. "You lie to yourself, Eclaire. Gather your things. I cannot teach-"

He was cut off. Someone was pounding the door. "JIAN DAO!" The voice was frantic. "A Golem! A Golem is approaching the southern gates!"

Jian Dao turned at once, and without sparing a word to Eclaire, headed to the door, opening it. "A single golem causes you to attempt to shatter my door with but fists?" He demanded, staring the frightened man down.

"I-it's a Great Golem!" the terrified man shouted. "We don't have the mages to-" But he was thrown aside, as Jian Dao shoved him aside and sprinted. Eclaire rushed after him, but stopped. She quickly helped the fallen man up. "Go! Get people out of the area!" She said, shaking him. "I have to help!" She turned and ran. "Master!"

 

South Gate, the City of Tor'Shan, Tor'Ket mountains

 

Eclaire saw no gate. She saw but rubble, and a Golem that was bigger then half the buildings in sight was there. It crushed a small home under it's foot, as people ran...and there, in it's path, was Jian Dao. He drew forth his own sword, and held it against his chest. Around him was a Magic Circle.

Eclaire had only known him to draw magic circles for specific spells.

"Master!"

"BACK." He thundered out, as the circle flared to life. "Do not enter the circle!"

"What are you doing?! It will crush you!" She screamed, but he did not falter. Instead...he chanted.

"Her sorrow is my armor. Her sadness is my shield. Her rage is my blade. By the Ancient Magus who brought forth Light form where there was none, by the souls of all who fell, fall, and will fall, I will forth the Light of Promised Victory." He raised the blade above his head, and all around him sparks of light rose from the ground. "Nobless Oblige - Anti-Fortress Ancient Magic: Avalon Calamity!" His blade become enveloped by the golden light, and the sparks around him began to gather, only feeding the blade.

"By my conviction, I will topple castles! I will fell walls! On the name of thy sword, I summon Avalon Calamity!"

Eclaire could only fall to her knees, the magic energy almost toppling her. This master...a master of over five thousand years, to her five hundred...gave a final shout.

"LAM...ENTATION!" his voice did not just thunder, but became thunder. He brought down his sword of light, forcing Eclaire to shield her eyes from the brilliance...and as it faded, she blinked away the painful brightness and looked upon her master.

Jian Dao stood, swordpoint to the ground, and before him lay not a granual of the Great Golem. It had been incinerated in such brilliant light.

He turned, then fell to a knee. His chest heaved, sweat drenched his furrowed brow. "...Noblesse Oblige...the inferred obligation of everyone of power, of noble bearing, to be selfless to those who have no power." He looked up. "A spell...created to topple the castles of tyrants...fell the walls of monsters...and by the sword that is wielded, defeat any opponent." His sword had fallen, and he fell to the side. Eclaire scrambled to him. "Master!"

"Eclaire." He grimaced. "Go. I will live." He gripped her hand. "Never...use that magic...without...conviction."

His hand grew slack, his breathing slowed...and she could hear people approaching. In her hand, he had slid a necklace...the one she had asked about all those years ago.

"Jian Dao!"

"It's her! The succubus who attacked my Mai-Si-Tong!" Shin-Ki-Tong, a wealthy merchant, peaked from behind his cart. "She is trying to murder Jian Dao!"

"No!" She stood. "No, I swear! I wasn't!"

"Liar! Monster!" The merchant screamed. "Kill her! Kill her, before she kills us all!"

 

The townsfolk, were taken back...but it was too late. Eclaire's wings had flashed out, and to the skies she went, winging hard and fast from Tor'Shan...far, far away...Where she would one day start anew...just like the past four hundred years.

Running. Always running. To immortals, one hundred years was nothing. To her, one hundred years was everything. Jian Dao had to have known for far longer than he did...her lateness at times, her tiredness one day to boundless energy the next. Yet he trained her...he never once called her out.

What did he see in her? Why the necklace that he had refused to talk about?

 

Eclaire...would never know.

 

 

 

The Circle was almost done. But for every blade, there must be emotion. What emotions drove her to name this ancient sword, who may or may not be named?

"...Conviction." She wrote this down, then sat back on her heels. She would name this sword, and wield it, with conviction. Crawling, she approached the next spot, connecting the circle to the next spot with a line...and so she began the Second Circle in her Naming Ritual.

 

Flashback: Zifus Merlain

 

 

 

The Forest of Isenfarl, one thousand years ago.

 

"By the Flames of Ithuriel, I call judgement!"

Master Zifus Merlain held aloft his spear-like staff, and around him erupted golden flames. They then fired, one after the other, like a constant barrage. The target was not just set aflame, but incinerated by the assault. The wizened magus turned, his beard glorious in length. "Young one, you have studied here for almost three hundred years." He hobbled towards her, holding the spear. "You have seen the simplest spells of, creating water, to mastering telekinesis. Today, I believe it is time that you see a new spell." His eyes twinkled, and he began hobbling. Confused, Eclaire got up from her kneeling position and hurried after him. Zifu Merlain had taught her everything he knew, finding her ravenous to learn. He still remembered the day this young girl came across his path, wounded, dirty, scavenging from the town to the north. He had sensed the latent power, felt the flow of magic...and the endless conflict. He took her in, blood and all, fed her, clothed her. When her hunger grew too much, he would find a dying dryad and ask for their final moments.

And now, they walked, through the forst that, for three hundred year tomorrow.

"Where are we going..." Eclaire's question died, as they entered a cave. Runes covered the inside, illuminating the inside. He had described this...a cave made by ancients for fast transport.

"Catastrophe." He said simply, before tapping the wall. They were in a dead end...but the rock began to shimmer, and he beckoned her through. "Quickly now. I daresay this tunnel will not be used again!"

Hopefully after we return...? Eclaire thought panickedly, leaping after him. Her master...he was insane. He was erratic, powerful, dangerous, utterly calm yet always energetic. He was an enigma.

And now, he was leading her to a cliff.

"Mas...ter..."

 

Below them was a barbarian encampment. He looked upon it. "These brutes will be launching a raid upon a town nearby. The Dryads cannot come out, for the fire shall consume them. These ones are known to set fire to everything to smoke out the people...these...barbarians are slavers." he actually seemed...sick. "And my time has come, Eclaire. I must pass on...but until then..." He held up the staff. "This, as you have guessed by now, is no staff...no, truly this is the God-Slaying Spear, the Spear of Paradox...the Ever-Changing Spear In Paradisum, whose myth is that it slew the God of Time. Stories surround it...but I will say, only a few are true..." he paused. "In Paradisum, Fifth Configuration: Storm of Spears."

It split at once, and seven spears now surrounded him. He brought his hand down, and they impaled the ground beneath them...and he began to manipulate them with his hands.

He was making a magic circle.

 

"You know the joke all old people know each other? Well, it's true." He cackled a bit. "I supposed it is time to show you a new magic...one that will give you respect for the old ways, and allow me to use my final moments saving someone...for each of these Noblesse Obliges you learn, can kill you. Jian Dao passed away one hundred years ago, but not before sending a letter to me, in case in my travels I happened upon a young girl whose hair was like the most beautiful pink rose, whose eyes a shimmering-green blue...and whose conviction wavered. He says you're a fool, by the way, with too much kindness for his liking. Old codger."

Zifus cackled once more, before the circle glowed.

"By the Gods whom no longer linger, for the Gods who yet yearn to walk amongst us, and for the Gods who decide to bend the rules to service their own wishes, I give you this request upon thee - strike down the many before me, not for myself - but for others." His spears shot skyward, until they were but specks.

"Noblesse Oblige - Anti-Army Ancient Magic: Paravel Catastrophe...go forth, In Paradisum. Lead thy foes to Hades."

 

Not seven, but countless spears rained upon the slavers, explosions of magical fury devastating the encampent, and leaving none behind. The wizened old Grand Caster turned to Eclaire, as his Spear shot back to his hands. "I have lived a good life. Now, I pass this to you. You have had many masters, but I dare say you will only care for a few." His eyes twinkled, as she shakily took the spear. "Never forget, Eclaire. Only you can change yourself. Others may influence, but only you may choose your own heart." He closed his eyes.

"M...Master..."

"It has been a pleasure teaching you, Eclaire. I do hope that, one day, you'll find a good surname." He gave her one final laugh. "I always wanted a student. Sadly...most found me...insufferable. Now...I have a new adventure, and a good friend waiting. So, a question for you to ponder: Do you wish to change yourself?"

 

He faded into the wind, leaving Eclaire holding In Paradisum, and a question she would ponder for a thousand years.

 

 

 

Done. The second circle. She looked upon it...and wrote the answer for the question Zifus Merlain had given her in his final moments. She grimaced, sitting back on her ankles. Her back hurt. breathing, she switched her clothes to the lighter Lioness' Roar, as she thought of it. They were cooler, thankfully, though she wondered why it always gave her those cat ears.

Shaking her head of the weirdness of magic clothing, she drew a new line to the third and final outer circle, and began once more inscribing in both languages.

 

Flashback: Iroh'ku

 

 

Ayra Region, Western Continent - Coast of the Nypmphadora Sea. Two hundred years ago.

 

The waterfall pounded upon her. Iroh'ku stood atop the waterfall, looking down upon his pupil. His eyes never wavered from her, one hand rest on the hilt of the katana at his side, the other behind his back. He sighed. Still she was not listening...still, she was a rebel. He stepped off the cliff and dropped down, before landing lightly before her. Where Jian Dao was a master of swords and Magic, Iroh'ku was a master of Magic Swords. Eclaire asked the difference.

"One is an ordinary blade that is used as a way to channel your magic; what I forge, and what I teach, is how to take the ingredients I give, and not make a sword with fire but fire and magic." He took a long breath, before sipping his tea. "It is like tea; there are many ways to make, and master, the art. There is no wrong way to create tea, but there are a thousand correct ways to master it." He set the tea down. "But you are not one for the forge. It is full of anger, and rage. The bellows feed this fury, to mold. You are not angry. You are sad. Very sad." He looked upon her. "It is time for even meditation. Today, meditate on what you swing a sword with, and what you call for your magic with."

 

It was this that Eclaire meditated on. The water ran over her, soothing her skin and protecting her from the blazing sun. Iroh'ku had set up his small home at the beach, so he could always breath such air. She breathed in deeply using her nose, before letting it out from her mouth. She would hold said breath for ten seconds before exhaling. But she could not, in these meditations, figure out the answer to Iroh'ku's questions. Instead, she looked up at him.

"Meditations are over." he said finally. "Come to the Shrine." He said. He then tapped his foot, and shot up on a pillar of wind, before stepping off. She crawled out from the waterfall and flew up after him, lighting down behind him. She followed quietly, until they were at the Shrine. Iroh'ku was a worshipper of Shiroahn, a God who appeared as a dragon. She stood there, dripping water, as he remained still.

"You have been my disciple in the ways of the Eastern Magusblades. In my homeland, Shiroahn is said to have given the First Magusblade a sword made from his own tooth. We called it Kusanagi-No-Mikoto. It was shattered into four parts following a great war, Those four parts were made into four new swords. Mikoto, Susano'o, Raijinto, and Kusanagi." He turned, and offered her his sword. "You are a stubborn pupil. You do not listen. You do not answer your own heart. But you do not carry that spear for no reason. You do not have your own sword for no reason. You have gained such weapons for what lies in your heart." He stepped forward. "Forget the myth of your weapons and armor that you hold. Many are false, and many are true. What you must look to is not whether or not this sword is from a godly dragon. What you must look at...is a master, passing on a sword. One he forged ten thousand years ago from a dragon's tooth, broken in four pieces. Was it Shiroahn? Was it a sword? Does it truly matter? You came to Jian Dao, Zifus Merlain, and myself, looking for protection and power. But as I see you in town, I see someone who would much rather choose happiness and love. There are reasons each of us is born. It is our journey to find those reasons."

Eclaire tentatively took the sword. It was lighter, yet heavier, then it looked. Lighter in weight, heavier in meaning.

"Master..."

"You have traveled for very long, Eclaire. You met my old friends. Each has passed on, and one day I shall too. Jain Dao taught you to wield the blade, but also thunder - for like his voice carried, so shall your power. Zifus Merlain taught you the Holy Fires that you may ignite evil, and I...I showed you how water magic, and it's own distinct style, can influence you. The failure of you trainins was in yourself, not looking beyond what was shown .It is important to draw wisdom from places beyond where you are. If you take it from only one place it become rigid...umalleable. So, my last lesson..." He turned to the sea, and held out his hand. In a flash of lightning he summoned a new Katana. "It is only fitting I follow what my old friend's letters said." He stepped past the Shrine, and held the sword in his classic stance.

"I see my foe before me. He is not good, nor evil - nor am I good, or evil. Like him, I see fear, I see hope. Before me I see not a foe, but an equal. Not an equal, but a better. I am the steel that creates my blade, the leather that wraps the hilt, and the song that sings through the wind." He glowed. "Noblesse Oblige - Anti-Foe Ancient Magic: Kugane Tragedy...Ikazuchi, strike like lightning."

 

He thrusted his blade forward, and a bolt of lightning erupted. it struck the water, creating a massive geyser that rained down upon them.

"My final question." Iroh'ku didn't move. "If you say you are a mistake...what do you wish to accomplish?"

 

 

 

The outer circle was complete...and in it she wrote the final answer. She had to pause...the memories of each of the three teachers, the three who knew each other, passed on their knowledge, and their trust, to her. As she drew the last lines and began the final circle, the central circle, she could feel the magic already flowing. This spot...this spot would remain in her heart forever. And as she finished the script, as she closed the lines, she wrote a single word as the central catalyst.

 

Flashback: Shiva

 

 

The woman paused...finally, he looked up. "I ask of one thing. A kiss. Through the Succubus inside me I gain lifeforce through intimacy. I wish to carry with me a piece of your life, so if you do not return - that you will never abandon your people. For I swear upon myself, my parents, and the Goddess of Light who blessed my unholy birth, that I will never abandon them. It is my sole request. To carry with me an ember of your life, so wherever your legacy flickers, I may rekindle it's flame."

 

 

It took Shiva several moments to process Eclaire’s final request, her brows furrowing together into a frown. A kiss? What sort of request was this? What was Eclaire implying, and was this one of her Succubus tricks? Moments passed into minutes as the ice queen remained perched on the side of the water fountain, thoughts swirling in a jumbled mess in her head before responding: “Well, all right.”

 

 

It had been a very long time since Shiva had kissed anyone and she almost did not know how to! She remained seated while closing her eyes, leaning forward toward the Valkyrie to bestow her parting gift. A curious one, she thought, but not one that was preposterous that she couldn’t provide.

 

She breathed. Okay. Taking a few breaths, focusing, she rested a hand on Shiva's right shoulder and gently cupped the Queen's cheek with her other hand. She leaned forward and pressed her lips to Shiva's...and the Queen would feel as if a part of her was flowing into Eclaire. The kiss lasted for three seconds, and Eclaire pulled away. She gulped a bit and didn't move, still touching her.

 

 

The kiss from Eclaire did not last long. It felt awkward when Eclaire cupped her cheek and drew close, her very kiss leaving her to feel slightly dazed. She fought this feeling, however, though nothing could battle the fluttering from within her chest. Tenderly she returned the kiss, eyes carefully watching Eclaire as she spoke. Within only an hour she already had seen quite the amount of strength grow within Eclaire--she only hoped that it was something she could hold on to.

 

 

 

"Succubus feed off the lifeforce of others. What I have taken in three seconds...just three seconds. An ember of your very life. If you believe you are not going to return, then I shall always carry your very life with me. Three seconds is miniscule...enough your soul will easily replace it within a few days. You will have lost nothing, but gained my promise. I now walk forth with your very legacy, Shiva. I will not let it fail." She let go and pulled away. "...I will not let your trust in me fail. I swear."

 

 

"Thank you," she said softly, her words barely more than a whisper. "I know that Kilkis Seres is in great hands. It is reassuring to know, even slightly, that a small part of me will live on to see the dawn of a new era. I just wish that it didn't have to end this way."

 

 

The ice queen offered Eclaire a kiss on the forehead. "Until we meet again, Eclaire."

 

 

 

 

"Until we meet again." Eclaire whispered, before standing.

 

The preparations were almost complete. She breathed, and unsheathed the silver sword she had on her back. Over each circle flared to life her Magic Armory - over the Circle of Jian Dao, the Necklace she had kept safe. Over the Circle of Zifus Merlain, In Paradisum, and over Iroh'ku, was Kusanagi. She then removed both of the Spheres and set them in their places. Finally, she set the tip of the silver sword in the final spot and held it there telekinetically...before removing a knife from her armory...and proceeding to, painfully, cut Xs into her palms. She tossed the knife back in, and pressed her bleeding hands to each side of the sword.

 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=epr7eGXw5qM&t=908s

((For best effect, read slow so the upbeat around 3:10 hits around 12 lines in))

"I, Eclaire, Heir to Luxerion and Luxuria, Light and Lust, do call upon the First Valkyrie and First Succubus. I call upon you for a Rite of Naming. I call upon you to guide and bless thy choice of name, not for a new blade but a blade reborn. I call forth both as I am of the Blood of Zion and Blood of Xion, the Former Queen and Current Queen. I, a product of both worlds, choose to ask for both."

 

There was silence. Her blood ran down the silver blade, her hands just above the hilt. She breathed.

 

The spheres rose to eye level, and lit up like the brightest dawn. To her right stood an armored woman with dark blue hair and a gilded spear. To her left, a woman of the most lustrous clothing and darkest hair.

"I, First Valkyrie..."

"And I, First Succubus..."

"Will hear your name and judge." They said in unison...and the other circles burst to life.

 

The entire room was engulfed. To her left now stood Jian Dao.

"Do you wield that blade for yourself? Do you wield it for your own selfishness?" He thundered, his ghostly form towering. "Do you take up this naming ceremony in the name of yourself, or the name of a greater cause? Do you, Eclaire, Take it up with conviction?"

 

"I do!" she roared. "I, Eclaire, shall not just name this sword, but I shall give myself a true surname! I shall take upon myself the name Oathkeeper! I shall wield this sword with love, kindness, and conviction! I believe in the ideals of Shiva, and I will uphold them! This is my oath, and I shall keep it until final breath!"

Jian Dao nodded, and to her right did Zifus Merlain appear. "What is the answer to my question, Eclaire?" He asked, his eyes twinkling brighter than the very light that created him. "What is your answer?"

"No." She once more roared. "I will not change myself! I have chosen to live my life as I was born. I will not run, I will not fear. I no longer wish to change myself, but to become the best version of myself! This is my vow; this is my oath!"

 

Zifus cackled, and before her faded into existence Iroh'ku.

"Young one, you left me so little ago. Tell me, Eclaire, she who takes up the name Oathkeeper, binding herself to the oath she gave the Queen...what is your answer? What do you wish to accomplish?"

 

"Happiness." she said, almost whispering. "Happiness! For I am not a mistake!" her voice did not waver; it did not falter. "I will accomplish happiness! I wish to pursue the happiness I wanted, even if Shiva is gone. I will pursue love, and joy. I will not ever call myself a mistake again! If the Queen can believe in me, then anyone can! I will not fear, for it is not blood that defines me, not birth, but what I do with my life! I will name this sword to never forget, and to never falter. For I am not a mistake!"

 

He nodded with approval, and stood aside, besides Jian Dao to the left.

 

And finally...she appeared. Before her was Shiva, and all the Queen did was smile. Eclaire's hands went up, gripping the handle as the blood-soaked sword sat there. And Eclaire smiled, a beautiful smile of pure joy.

"Always."

 

The four stepped back, as once more the First stepped forward.

"I, Altriana, request the name."

"I, Izanami,, request the name."

 

Eclaire set the point on the ground, as magic swirled. "I name this sword in honor of the first person to say, without hesitation, that I was not a mistake. The first person to know and love me unconditionally. Despite our time being brief, I name this sword in her honor. I carry her life within me. I, Eclaire Oathkeeper, choose upon the site I first met her, the name I shall bestow. I name this silver sword..."

 

She took a breath. Her body did not tremble...no, she felt warm. A beautiful warmth.

And so she said the name.

 

The two looked upon her.

"I accept the name, and allow my blessings. The name of thy sword is that who you swore to protect, yet failed...yet in failure you refuse to give up, and wish to protect what remains. I, Altriana, bless thy sword."

"I, Izanami, find that which you lusted, then truly loved, appropriate. Thy sword shall have the blessing of your bloodline, my progeny. I, Izanami, bless thy sword."

 

The spheres began to spin around her, gold and red mingling with the blue. Soon she felt arms around her, and golden wings engulfing her...M...mother?"

"I am proud, too."

 

Everything shattered. She stood there as the light faded, as the sword glowed. Where her blood had soaked near the hilt was the intermingling script of both Valkyrie and Succubus were there. And they said the same, singlular word, that now bore the new name of the Sword of the Queen, as the woman stood there, tail slightly curling.

 

Shiva.

 

 

 

 

 

((Flashback: Shiva is just posts between Mystics and I earlier in the RP, color-coded to denote who wrote what. They are a bit disjointed, sorry. I didn't want to edit them beyond cutting out things that didn't fit with the kiss. And uh...sorry not sorry for this wall of goddamn text.))

Edited February 9, 20187 yr by Sabre Lily

- Alastor - The Storm - With Arthur - 

 

"And if justice isn't served, I will assist you in her demise. Of that I promise you, I wish for her death just as much as you boy." Alastor explained Yevgeni that, as different as they were, they shared some common ground. In wanting Midnea to pay. Alastor was surprised that Arthur had the guts to tell him to train him, Alastor liked people with courage and guts to do things others wouldn't expect. This was good. 

 

Alastor chuckled, and smirked, albeit with still a serious look on his face. Towards Arthur. "If you desire power, I can grant you that wish, but you must be ready to work for it, you'l train to an inch of your life to attain such power, you might even die." Alastor warned Arthur that training with him could prove deadly, very deadly, Arthur would not be the same after the training, if the boy decided to undertake it. "But survive it, and you'l learn the techniques forgotten by ancient times, those even the dragons themselves fear."

 

"If you wish to train, meet me in the outskirts, east of the camp, i'l be there. You'l have your first lesson there." Alastor proposed to Arthur, as he walked beside him and out of the tent.

 

 

- Mikhail - The Old Witcher - Accompanying Rhaedyn -

 

Without any words, Mikhail nodded, and smirked towards Rhaedyn as the hulk of a man stepped out of the tavern, following him. It was time to hunt down a QueenSlayer.

 

 

- Maxis - The Unhinged - Kilkis Seres encampment - 

 

Maxis was making his way to where the speech would had taken place, Maxis was about to enter the main area but was stopped by a guard, who thought he didn't need to enter.

 

"Stop right there. You can't enter." The guard bellowed, with a disrespectful tone.

"Why's that?" Maxis asked.

"Because Yevgeni has made his speech, and the likes of you are not welcome" The guard explained.

"Knock off Legolas without a bow and arrow is welcome to make speeches but the retainer of the queen isn't? What is this bullshit?" Maxis spoke, outraged.

"If you won't cooperate i'l have to teach you some man-"

Whoever was still inside the area of the meeting, they would notice a guard flying like a ragdoll from the entrance, smashing into a table as Maxis strolled in casualy.

 

"WHAT IS UP MY PEOPLE!" Maxis announced to everyone. "Im baaaaaaaack!" Maxis spoke, sounding jolly and excited, albeit the crowd probably wasn't. "The guard tried to hit me, it was self defense, I swear. Anyway. I hear we are under new management now...How sweet." Maxis spoke to everyone, making his presence clear.

 

"So...Whats going on here?" Maxis asked, he had missed the speech so he was totaly in the dark right now. He spoke, as he strolled over to a kitsune boy, Jari Coriander, and placed a hand on his shoulder.

 

"Hey there fella, care to fill me in?" Maxis spoke. his voice twisting midway into a threatening, demonic voice.

Edited January 29, 20187 yr by Scrapmaster

- Soren Monroe, the Penitent Traitor - FLASHBACK, Lake Kresnik - 

 

 

The rage of Raiden was palpable, sullying the very air around them as he bellowed his reply to Soren, who could only listen quietly as the man turned his head to look upon Soren, spitting his declaration of vengeance, yet wishing not to tarnish Soren's reputation any further. The demon was about to reply, but as Raiden concluded, he caught the brief, yet startling glimpse of his right eye disappearing for but a moment, before returning to where it belonged. It was clear Raiden was ashamed of his rage breaking, recoiling in horror and looking away from Soren...yet the former sentinel was not discouraged by this.

 

"Odin, or Raiden, I don't know which you prefer, but hear me..." Soren began, kneeling next to Raiden as he continued. "I have no reputation to maintain. Only you and I know of Shiva's forgiveness in her last moments. To the rest of Kilkis Seres, I am still a traitor granted barely a pardon, not to be executed, but to forever live in their angered gaze in shame." He declared, clenching his free hand as his future humiliation and dissent was reaffirmed. Upon returning to Kilkis Seres, all Soren would be met with is suspicious aside looks and disgust...what was there for Raiden to ruin?

 

"I swear to you that this will not go unpunished. I will not let this Assassin be but a passing fantasy to the rest of the world, I cannot." Soren spoke with an impassioned tone, sweeping his free hand at the air. "But...I will return to Kilkis Seres for now...shame be damned." Soren then stood up, tall and unfettered. "I will come back to you, Lord Raiden of Mystras. Whether you like it or not, I will be there for you." He then swore to Raiden, deciding to not forgo the formalities and bowed to him. "Queen Shiva needed someone to depend on...I could not be that for her. So let me be that for you. I promise I will not let you down, on my soul." With this, Soren had just sworn an oath to Raiden, not quite as formal as the one he swore to Shiva, there would be time for that later, but his words conveyed enough to Raiden that the former Sentinel would not leave his side forever.

 

 

 

 

- Meksis, the Divided - Ivany's Tent -

 

Once Meksis had entered Ivany's tent, his strength lapsed as he almost fell over, but thankfully the alchemist was there to catch him, leading him to one of her chairs and sat him down, wanting to know what happened. Meksis didn't even need to answer, as one look into her eyes told her all she needed to know. Ivany was now terribly worried, asking Meksis if was corrupted.

 

"I am not of darkness yet, Ivany...but Maxis is. He's gone completely mad, his corruption, or whatever it is, has taken him over. I tried to meld my mind with his to help him, but the-the..." Meksis lost his breath for a moment to the point of feeling completely winded, desperately recomposing himself to keep speaking. "...the corruption had overtaken him already, forcing me out of his mind and..." Meksis's eyes flashed red and darkness crackled on a few segments of his armour, but he remained in control. "...agitated my own infection." He rasped his words out, the fight was being taken out of him as every second passed.

 

Shaking his head and growling with determination, he looked straight at Ivany as he then pleaded. "I need your help, Ivany...you're my only hope of figuring out how to purge this...this burden from my mind and my body. And of saving my blood brother." He concluded with a sigh, followed by a bout of laboured breathing. The Defiled was pressing down upon his spirit with immense weight, but the pain was like a hot brand being pressed against flesh, of which he had none.

- Arthur - Side: Mystras Rebellion - w/ Alastor - Private Meeting at Alastor's Tent -

Arthur’s heart pounded as he faced Alastor, a single bead of sweat dripping from his brow. He braced himself to get punched again, in all honestly, but was glad to see Alastor seemed to become amused by his resistance instead. He warned Arthur, however, that the training would be rigorous, and possibly deadly. Arthur chuckled softly at the irony, his eyes softening as he looked up at Alastor. “Being a knight means facing danger every day. By this point, death is no stranger to any of us, Alastor. Not even me.” He assured, quickly straightening up as the sparks wore off him, finally able to relax momentarily as he followed Alastor out of the tent. "Thank you, Alastor. I'll meet with you later on...until then." Arthur said as the two returned to the medical tent. It was still as gloomy and as silent as when he had left. He excused himself from Alastor, quickly returning to his group's side. He proceeded to hurry next to them quickly, smiling at them for a moment before returning his gaze at Raiden. His hand went back to his chest. Death. He had been facing it for the past months in the face and never once thought about it. Not until Alastor brought it up. It was terrifying to think and yet...he couldn't help but to feel for it to be a mere challenge in his path. The thought of Midnea still free and wondering about made his blood boil...but maybe this training would give him the key to the solution he sought. It had to be. What else was there? "(I'll get you, Midnea. Even if it kills me...you won't get away with it. Not again.)"

Edited January 30, 20187 yr by Stardustblade358