Nero Kunivas

- Soren Monroe, Servant of Shiva's Will - Mystras, Raiden's Study - As he awaited Raiden's reply from beyond the door, Soren was approached by Rabiyu and Sifrei, the former greeting him and expressing relief at his presence, something that Soren found oddly comforting as he gave her a quick, but respectful bow. "Good to see you alive and well too, Rabiyu. Regarding Raiden, well--" The former Sentinel was accosted by the door opening to reveal a tired and utterly done in Lord Raiden, who couldn't even muster a smile as he allowed them all entrance. Lord Raiden's study was barren and a bit of a mess, little in the way of seating was available and seemed ransacked if he had to guess, though his thought process ended with Raiden's comments regarding Soren's attire. Rolling his shoulders, Soren allowed himself a small smile. "It's traditional Demonic Armour, wore it in my service days...you could say I was feeling nostalgic." He stated firmly, though he ended casually. Soren then cleared his throat, deciding to get to business. "As to the information, I've--" Soren was then totally silenced by the sudden arrival of King Alderon, one of the rulers of The World Below, looking in just as a sorry state as Raiden, if not worse, demanding to know their next action. Desperation was at the center of Alderon's thoughts and actions, it was clear as day to Soren, keen eye or not. Raiden's plan in response was certainly in the right direction, but Soren could sense it wouldn't be so simple. "I'm sure the Humans will take all the help they can get from us. Rest assured I'll do all I can to aid in relief efforts, your majesty." Soren turned his attention to Alderon, deciding to take off his helmet before he addressed the Human King. Holding his helmet under his arm, Soren itched an eyebrow before remembering he had to tell Raiden something, gesturing before talking. "Regarding the mastermind, Raiden..." Soren became rather solemn as he contemplated on the words and later actions of the Regent of Kilkis Seres, anger was soon brimming to the surface, but he had to stifle it. "I've great reason to believe that the one who orchestrated all of this...is Yevgeni Malachite, Regent of Kilkis Seres." He finally uttered, sighing quietly through his nose. "He and I met shortly after he assumed the position." Soren began, moving to the leftmost part of the room, pondering over the bookcases. "Yevgeni wished to make nice with me, it seemed. After some brief chatter, he offered me dinner at the Cooking Tent of the Kilkis Camp." He continued, looking down for a moment as he realized the impact of Yevgeni's words again, breathing deeply. "It was there I asked him what he had planned next. Just, nonchalantly. At the time, I was interested in what he could do for the World...but then he just, told me." Soren's free hand clenched in barely contained rage, the thought of Yevgeni's plan did more than just not sit well with him, that was certain. "Yevgeni said...that Humans were the problem and that Mystras was a pointless war to fight, though that I agreed with." Soren then shook his head to the side, walking back to the middle. "He then told me that the World Below must be destroyed, first by marching armies to their Leadership and decimating the Human Armies, then by choosing the...th-the..." Soren had to stop for a moment to recollect himself as he recalled the very words spoken that day. "The Pure of Heart, the "good" Humans, to save...and the rest would be left to die when the World Below was destroyed." Soren concluded on what Yevgeni said, though his barely contained fury still loomed. "I told him exactly what I thought of him and departed. I didn't care if he labelled me a traitor for life, I wasn't going to be an accessory to a disgrace of an Elf playing God!" Soren bellowed, then caught his words, holding his throat and closing his eyes. "I'm so sorry, Raiden...I'm just...the Humans don't deserve this." Soren finished, choking back a surge of sadness as he adjusted his armour's collar. - Meksis, the United, Armour of Twilight - Patrol Route, Kilkis Seres - The opportunity had arrived...the time had come and so had Maxis. Meksis sighted his blood brother approaching the Palace Gates, the energies coming off of him were palpable and foul indeed. He knew that he couldn't use the Tome's Words upon him now, the Chaos God's presence needed weakening first. In Shaping Worlds and Nations still rested in Meksis's pocket dimension along with his endless supply of weaponry. Meksis and his Dark Half both poised for the battle that would take place...Maxis held much power, both his own and the Chaotic Deity's, even their own increased power as a result of uniting would struggle. "Are you ready, brother?" "No...but we've no choice, neither can either of us truly be ready for such an undertaking." "Perhaps you are right...but as you say, if we don't...who will?" The Defiled's words rung true as Meksis activated his base Aura of the Chaperone and summoned a regular broadsword, as regular as he elegant weaponry got, then charged Maxis's position with blinding speed, stopping short and going into a walk when he got close enough, immediately channeling Light toward Maxis in order to try and subdue him, with the aid of powerful words: "Nan iChir Chaperone!" If successful, Meksis would waste no time in assailing Maxis with several slashes to his arms and legs, would attempt to block any retaliation and resume stunning Maxis with more intense Light, attempting to blind him overall. - Nergal, the Queenslayer - Kilkis Seres, Palace with Yevgeni - Yevgeni's smile brought genuine joy to Nergal's dark heart, for seeing the elf he held in such high regard as anything but happy or calm did truly hurt Nergal. However, Nergal could say no more to Yevgeni so soon as they, including Midnea, were surprised by the Guardsmen from earlier suddenly entering the Throne Room, rattled and battered by something as they hurried in, shouting. "Regent! Noble Regent, someone is at the Palace Gates! They want to speak with you now!" "They might mean to kill you, sir!" "Someone...?" Nergal inhaled deeply and let his senses do the work for him, analyzing every detail about the presence outside their safety...Henry. It was Henry Hansees, the one Nergal intended to test, he had arrived...and was very, very angry. "Yevgeni, stay here...I'll deal with him. Guardsmen? Protect the Regent!" "Are you sure? Aren't you just a messenger?" "I'm much more than that, esteemed Guard. Trust me...and would you please lend me your spare blade?" The Kilkis Guardsman carried two swords, clearly as a precaution, but didn't hesitate to grant him his wish after hearing Nergal speak, handing him the sword. Clearly, Nergal wished to keep his identity a mystery, or at least a surprise, as he was disguised and using a different weapon. The shrouded Nergal looked back at Yevgeni for a moment, nodding reassuringly, before leaving the Palace to confront Henry Hansees in person. ------------------------- "I'm afraid the Regent isn't seeing anyone right now, stranger!" Nergal would call out in a different voice, putting on one that sounded similar to the Messenger he killed to acquire his attire, the borrowed sword hidden from view beneath his disguise robe. He emerged from the Palace Gates, but kept some distance from the Hybrid, his mask hidden mostly by the hood, but Henry could tell it was a Messenger's Mask. "If you would please turn back now, we would all be grateful."

So the wait begins... I'm keeping my expectations at a medium to low threshold, so if anything good does come up, *coughkingdomhearts3cough*, I'll be pleasantly surprised. I'd suggest others do the same, so we can all be happy.

Haven't seen Infinity War, pls no.

Count me in on that idea as well, Elrandir! Hey, it'd just be nice to be in a story such as Overworld from the beginning this time around.

We should just have an RP set in the Northern Regions of the Overworld at some point, to be honest. Not right now of course, but it's an idea, no? I love this universe. And yes, Scrap, I'll be comin' at ya.

Happy Birthday, Lea! Hope it has been/will be an awesome day for you. Here, have a cake! Make your wish, if you like.

- Soren Monroe, Servant of Shiva's Will - Present Day, Immediately after the World Below's Destruction - Today...the unthinkable has happened. Today, the universe mourns the senseless loss of a world, filled with life, marked by history and shaped by its people. Today brings an end to any prospect of unity, prosperity or even reasonable thinking. Today, the Human World was just destroyed, its circumstances desperately pictured as natural and unpreventable, but the keen-eyed would notice arcane devilry when they saw it. Whatever the case, an enraged Soren Monroe could only watch as the World Below was torn apart at the seams, all of Soren's dreams were burned into the same dust that encompasses where the World Below once stood. The scheming fool of an Elf had done it. Yevgeni enacted his plan to play God...and seemingly was going to get away with it. "Not on my watch..." So said Soren, as he departed the Kilkis Seres War Camp one last time, fully armoured up by his old friend Harrison and upon Meksis's Steed: Ella, as he rode to Mystras with the intent to keep his promise to Lord Raiden. Shortly before that, Soren had sworn his life to King Jynn Venas as well, in honour of Queen Shiva's memory, refusing to acknowledge Regent Yevgeni's authority and only recognizing Jynn as the one true ruler at this time. It was with a heavy heart that he had to meet with Raiden, not only for his promise, but to inform him of the true enemy here, to tell him about Yevgeni because he knew Raiden would at least listen. No one at Kilkis Seres would hear it, he just knew, traitor or not, such words would fall upon deaf ears. Regardless of what Lord Raiden told him, Soren would regardless plan to find and kill the Queenslayer, to bring justice to Shiva and all those he has wronged...never again would he laugh maniacally over spilled blood, royal or otherwise. He would instead taste his own and be condemned to a fate worse than even that Soren would wish upon his father. Even if it was the last act of his life. - Mystras, Raiden's Villa - Soren had arrived sooner than he had expected, for Ella was a persistent and mighty horse indeed. Dismounting, Soren then approached the door to said Villa and by extension the Mystran Guard at the door. "Name please." "Soren Monroe. Mystran Enforcer. I'm here to see Lord Raiden. I've important information for him." "He's locked himself in his study, but I'll let you through, Soren. Just be careful, it's chaotic in there, with all that's happened." "Such tragedy often does that to a populace, Human or Fey..." Soren then cleared his throat. "Understood." The door was unlocked and Soren stepped into the Villa, making his way to Raiden's Study, through the crowds of Humanity and Feykind alike, his armour and imposing figure were enough for a significant amount of people there to step aside, but others were too engrossed in chatter, grieving and other such hysteria, requiring his polite pushing through. The Lord of Mystras was sure to be just as, if not more distraught, but time was wasting as he approached the door to Raiden's Study and knocked three times, hard, before shouting over the crowds so Raiden could here. "Lord Raiden! It's me, Soren! I've important information for you, might I come in?!" Soren bellowed, then waited for a response impatiently. - Meksis, the United, Armour of Twilight - Present Day, Immediately after the World Below's Destruction - The loss of the Human World sent ripples through the universe and Meksis's spirit, such a disturbing amount of life...wasted. And Meksis was sure he wasn't alone in suspecting a serious case of foul play being afoot here. Both halves of him agreed that things were only going to get more hectic and terrible as time went on, but they knew that they could prevent at least one of them... By now, Maxis would be losing control of the Mad God inside of him, who would eventually assume direct control and wreak havoc upon all of creation, simply because the foul deity wanted to. With his increased power and the presence of two beings inside of him now, the united Meksis knew he stood a chance against the Mad God this time. He would purify his blood brother of this blight and save the Overworld from at least one terror...the other one, Nergal, would have to wait. Meksis concluded that Maxis would seek answers, so he kept a patrol route around the perimeter of Kilkis Seres and its War Camp, a Spirit Search Spell from his Tome was active, which would allow him to sense both Maxis and the corrupt Spirit inside of him from a considerable distance away...once he did, he would strike, regardless of Maxis's condition. - Nergal, the Queenslayer - Present Day, Immediately after the World Below's Destruction - The Queenslayer lurked in the shadows, waiting for Yevgeni to finish his duties and be alone for him to discuss their future plans. It had finally been done...the runes set by Midnea, the Punishers, particularly the ones he himself left behind in his free time, were a success. The World Below was utterly devastated and torn to shreds, though the people certainly didn't die slow, that was for sure. Nergal could only look at the humans around with a scowl beneath his mask...perhaps they would prove useful in time, but he could sense hostility. "This is sure to not be a smooth transition...but we must act now. The Source of All Life is within our grasp...oh, my dear Yevgeni, I hope you retain your loyalty to me, as I have to you. Together, we can achieve so much...I would hate to lose you..." Nergal's demented thoughts concluded as he approached the Palace, dressed fully as a Kilkis Messenger, complete with a simple, obscuring grey cloak and the Emblem of Kilkis Seres upon his person, all claimed from one he had murdered earlier and disposed of quietly, simply gesturing to the Infantrymen who had repositioned before he arrived, who allowed him in without question, his presence not as concerning as that of Midnea, who was within the throne room with the Regent. This Dark Witch was an especially delightful partner in crime during the planting of Arcane Runes, that had to be said. He waltzed past her, right to Yevgeni and simply gestured, signalling his desire to come closer with a whispered message. Regardless of what Yevgeni did, he would still approach and leaned to Yevgeni's ear. "Midnea's plan went off without issue, as I'm sure you've heard. Now, to our own, yes? My Regent, we must proceed quickly but with caution. Everything is in chaos right now and there are people who seek The Queenslayer, so we are short on time, my friend...Yevgeni, where can we find the Source of All Life...what does it do?" Nergal whispered insistently, but still calmly, seeking to comfort the distressed Yevgeni, even putting a hand upon his shoulder, Nergal's aura would do the rest as it naturally did without any intervention on his part.

I figure I'll do the same for my characters, while we're here: Soren: He'll be utterly devastated that The World Below has been destroyed, looking down at the destruction and the cherry-picked Humans with sheer shock and disbelief that Yevgeni actually did it. He knows people won't believe him in Kilkis Seres, Traitor or not, if he says that he was behind it. Despite he and Meksis offering their service to King Jynn, both of them have obligations. Soren needs to honour his promise to Lord Raiden, so he has currently set off on Horseback, fully armoured to Mystras and tell him of his findings, all the while swearing vengeance for the World Below and still seeking it for Shiva. Before he departed, Soren swore to Jynn that as long as he drew breath, no one would touch him, citing his promise in Shiva's memory. Meksis: The senseless destruction of The World Below will disturb and distress Meksis greatly, but he knows he has to stay strong and steadfast, to uphold his name and duty. Both sides of Meksis agree however, that something else must be taken care of and done so now. Meksis has a feeling that his blood brother, Maxis, will want answers for this. So he has prepared and awaits his arrival, seeking to save and purify him, but will do whatever is needed to aid his armoured friend. Nergal: Positively delighted at the The World Below's destruction, but he could sense that he was being tailed by those who sought to hunt and kill the Queenslayer. It would only be a matter of time before Yevgeni was deposed and King Jynn took his place, so Nergal knew that their plan needed to go into motion and do so now. After Yevgeni is done talking to the Humans, he'll approach Yevgeni to inform him that now is their opportune moment to claim the Source of All Life, as the Human's had lost their world. Nergal hopes that Yevgeni will not betray him out of regret for his actions or believing Nergal to be his enemy, but even his obsessed outlook of the Regent tells him that it is all too possible.

The World Below...millions of years of history, has been obliterated, sundered, scattered to the empty winds... And Midnea isn't the only one responsible for the Runes, let me say that. Y'all can bet that Soren is going to be furious.

Timing. Sometimes we're all here and it's bustling and other times well... "Now it's a Ghost Town."

Soren: ...

And in the distance, Stardust, you can hear something... It is the sound of Soren, pumping his fist and shouting to the heavens in joy. A Fey and a Human, particularly if Aura responds favourably, have become romantically involved. And it's the goddamn Fey that he lectured in War. Soren: Helios, you sly fox...

Welcome to the Overworld OOC.

Oh balls. Sorry. I mean, I can understand his grief, though perhaps he's a little mad with it? Or he's perfectly sane and is just making a huge mistake based on such grief. (Mystics mentioned him being delusional in one of his posts, though that might've just been an expression or for emphasis on something. Now I'm confusing myself. lol) Soren's 3176 years old, give or take, he's seen some shit and still likes Humans... ...wait, it just occurred to me. The War between the Humans and Fey was two millennia ago, like you said right? ...Soren could've easily fought in the War then, right? Oh firetruck. But yeah, I suppose so. Hey, maybe King Jynn is like-minded,

I am aware of this. Doesn't mean Raishan's right in his judgement of them all. It's shortsighted of him, Yevgeni's similarly minded, though he has the added bonus of being delusional. Sometimes I feel like Soren's alone in his views. lol

Christ, now I'm really with Soren here, the Humans have it rough. lol Most of 'em didn't do anything to deserve this. Ruddy Fey's, all so superior.

- Soren Monroe, Servant of Shiva's Will - Kilkis Campgrounds, headed to its Armoury - Once Soren had departed from the Cooking Tent, his anger had subsided, but his disgust toward Yevgeni and his "grand" plan still lingered as he marched away, his destination not too far away as War Camps took most of the Armoury Stock with them, he assumed that when they went to war, they didn't know for sure if he was a traitor to Kilkis Seres, so they must've brought along his own equipment. Either way, Soren made his way to the Armoury Tent, a particularly large one indeed, past the inattentive Guardsman and began to explore. "My Queen taken from this world, her son nowhere in sight, the Regent is a delusional fool...now I am to run back into the arms of the man I betrayed Shiva for in the first place...how did we all end up here, then?" Soren's mind voiced as he eyed every crate there, each one designated to their respective owners, some grander than others, garishly so, he thought. Then one caught his eye: ~~ Armour and Weapons to be bestowed to the Warrior ~~ Soren Monroe, Sentinel of Isopolis ~~ With Regards from Her Majesty, Queen Shiva de la Alexandria ~~ ~~ Kilkis Seres Salutes You. Fight Well. ~~ Soren's old title produced something akin to nostalgia within him, though with a tinge of lingering regret for his actions. His crate was like the ones of Knights, but it had a darker, obsidian material-like look compared to the rugged steel they carried, specially made for those esteemed by the Queen. And the position of Sentinel was one such position...Soren found himself briefly longing for the role once more, to protect something so sacred from those who dared trespass, to strike them down, or imprison them and watch over them as their Warden. Alas, Soren realized he wouldn't be getting anywhere dwelling on his past, seeking to relive glory days, so he simply unlocked and opened his crate and began to rummage. "Hey! You can't be in here, who are you?" It seemed that the Guard from before had woken up, so to speak, entering the tent and initially calling sternly to Soren, but something about Soren lowered him to be a little more subdued about his approach, particularly Soren's lack of care for his presence. "Just collecting my possessions, Guard." Soren uttered, not paying him a look, making the Guard a little confused. "But you didn't sign in, acknowledge me or present your crest! You could be a thief!" He called, Soren rolling his eyes. "So stop me then." He snarked, resuming his search. The Guardsman simply sighed, but he couldn't leave since Soren spoke up. "Though while you're here, perhaps you could assist me in suiting up? If you're feeling bored." Soren requested a little more kindly, primarily because one person could not put on a full suit of armour by themselves. The Guardsman relented, shrugging and beginning a steady approach. "Well, I suppose you're not a thief. None I've met would be so brazen." Then something caught his eye. "What's that then?" Noting the strange helmet Soren procured from his crate, it was made of a strange material and had strange, ornamental qualities to it, primarily the horns. "It is the helmet of my armour from my service in Kilkis Seres's military before I was elevated to a more esteemed position...it's ancient demonic armour." Soren then scoffed to himself. "Strange how I distanced myself from my heritage, yet this armour still felt right on me...perhaps it still will." He mused, the Guardsman seeming impressed with the craftsmanship, but he soon looked around to the top of the crate's lid that had been lifted. "Hey, this is...Soren Monroe's crate..." "Yes, it is...mine." They both finally looked each other in the eye. When Soren laid his eyes upon the slightly scarred, roughly composed face of the Guardsman, both of them were astonished. "Harrison?!" Soren exclaimed in something he hadn't felt for a while, delight, with Harrison laughing in response, they both swiftly clasping each other's arms in greeting. "Soren Monroe, it's been too long, hasn't it?" Royal Guardsman Harrison spoke warmly, despite knowing of Soren's actions as of late, he was just glad to see an old friend's face. "Certainly so!" Soren replied, then seemed a little...bashful, to say the least. "Listen, Harrison--" "I know, you want to explain. What in the seven hells happened to you, old friend? Soldier, Captain, Sentinel! ...then I hear you've betrayed us?" Soren sighed deeply, remorse in his gut. "I made a mistake, Harrison. Just, the gravest of mistakes...one I still intend to atone for." Soren then returned briefly to rummaging after setting his helmet down to the side. "Rest assured, I still serve our late Queen's memory, regardless of what our "dear" regent may say to you. Technically, my treachery has been stricken due to "extenuating circumstances"." Harrison listened to Soren intently, though he was surprised, he didn't exclaim in disbelief nor did he cast doubt on Soren. "We've talked enough for me to know when you're being insincere with me, Soren...so you can rest easy." Harrison said, finishing with a reassuring smile. Soren breathed easier, then he looked to Harrison with an intrigued look. "Well, enough about me for now, what about you? How'd you make Royal Guardsman, then?" He quizzed, amusing Harrison. "Well, after my service I was offered the role, I took it! I guess you got the same treatment?" He answered, prompting some thought from Soren. "Indeed, perhaps they took note of how I saved your ass?" "Hey now, I recall saving your sorry ass, Soren." Soren then pondered, chuckling afterward. "Actually, both are true, really. We both watched each other's backs against Necromancer Feredir and his Undead Army. When was that...seven hundred years ago?" "Seven hundred and six. You lead the charge! You...fell down a crater, but still, you soldiered on!" "Yes...I did. Though that reminds me--!" Soren went though his case again, past the ornamental Saber he received when he found something quite special and held it in his hands before them both: A glowing, sapphire crystal, that constantly emanated frosty wisps from it. "I found this while I was down there, it was a cave system, not a crater." Soren noted, Harrison mainly being enamored by the crystals glow. "A Frost Gem?" "Indeed, a kind of Frost Gem. I think it's a rare one called...oh, you know more about Gems and Crystals than I. You still collect them?" Soren asked Harrison, who raised his eyebrows and nodded. "On rare occasion, but yes. Ooh, you've got quite the rare one, as you said. It's a "Boreas" Crystal, often incorrectly referred to as a Permafrost." Harrison noted curiously. "Known for it's soft glow, deep blue hue and the constant emanation of icy cold wisps. These crystals are often offered in tribute to Fey of great stature, such as the man it was named after, Boreas, or a mon...arch." Harrison eyed Soren oddly, who simply shook his head. "I didn't intend to give it to Shiva, if that's what you're asking. I served her gladly, I did not have feelings for her." "I never said you did, that's your fault, Soren." Harrison added, laughing a little. "Can you carve this and put it into a necklace for me?" Soren suddenly asked, but Harrison was more than eager, taking the Crystal from his hands. "Say no more, my friend. I'm still as sharp as ever...you want anything engraved into the gem?" He asked, prompting a long moment of thinking from Soren before he began to collect his armour. "On the reverse side, engrave her name in old Elvish. And upon the front...demonic, for Sentinel. To remind me not just of what I have lost, but what I still serve, to honour and to avenge. My lost honour and the late Queen. I will claim it anew, start afresh...and will ensure her spirit rests easy by the end of all this." Harrison simply nodded and smiled. "Your wish is my command, old friend." "Thank you, Harrison...once you're done, suit me up. It's time to make my mark." Soren concluded, preparing the chainmail himself. - Meksis, the United, Armour of Twilight - Campgrounds Outskirts, with King Jynn - Once the tenacious, cruel Assassin had been defeated and subsequently fled the scene, Meksis breathed a sigh of relief before following King Jynn and the others back to the Campgrounds, staying close to the King as to make sure no more harm would come to him. "Trial by fire, wouldn't you say? For the King?" "Not one he needs right now...but yes, I'm inclined to agree. I just hope he can take his mother's place well." "That's all a matter of if his young heart is truly in it..." Dawson's comment interrupted the internal dialogue of both Meksis's, questioning him as to his status or health. "Never better, young Dawson. I'm just pleased to see we all made it through that maniac's assault with little wear. Aside from Typhon, but I'm sure he will heal." Meksis spoke fully, his tone strong as it should be, passing a little chuckle when mentioning Typhon and his...extreme method of deterring the Assassin. Following Jynn into the tent of his choosing, he also eyed for the elusive Yevgeni, but couldn't see him either. "My King, he isn't here, but he must be around the camp...we'd better make haste, especially if you all have something to share?" Meksis spoke first to Jynn, then turned his attention to Jari, Elia and Aqua, along with a few soldiers resting up. - Nergal, the Queenslayer - Retreating - Nothing about that had gone well. Nergal hadn't killed anyone and he was now defeated, beaten and exposed. They knew his face, by all rights they had to die, but it seemed now wasn't the time...Yevgeni wasn't going to be pleased with this, dread settling into Nergal's younger heart. He had screwed up attacking King Jynn, particularly with so much protection, all with keen senses. It was foolhardy, reckless...unnecessary, especially if his and Yevgeni's plan worked out, with a few additional tasks performed in Nergal's downtime providing all the time they'll need. Now Nergal had to keep to the shadows once more, hoping to get a moment of Yevgeni's time when he would be free...and that the King hadn't deposed him just yet. (Soren's Armour is in the spoiler tag)

As much as Soren doesn't agree that the greater majority of Humans deserved this fate, he knows something had to be done during that time of turmoil. The war between Human and Fey was long and bloody, after all. And he knew that, with Shiva around, mainly when she and Raiden were talking, perhaps it could be lifted, slowly but surely, rather than abruptly or without reason. He has faith in Humanity as a whole, denounces and condemns those who break the Fey's trust and understands that Alexander had to do what he had to do, even if it was severe and lasting...he believes they shouldn't be condemned for the rest of their collective lives however, that's why he was hoping that Queen Shiva would one day lower the barrier gradually. And even then, Alexander made a tough call, in Soren's mind. Yevgeni knowingly wants to kill them off, while preserving those he thinks are pure enough. It's the malice of his actions that truly disgusts Soren, making him realise just how good they all had it by comparison. Overall, he just doesn't want the Human Race to perish, nor does he want Fey to become too up themselves to care. With Shiva, he knew there was a possibility, however slim, of giving the World Below another chance. With Yevgeni, all he sees is death.

- Soren Monroe, the Penitent Traitor - Kilkis Campgrounds, Dinner with Yevgeni - Yevgeni spoke, clearly contemplating his next move in regards to their world, while Soren listened intently for the most part while eating his sandwich, deciding to let him get his words out before he threw his hat into the ring. Something that piqued his interest was Yevgeni's mention of replacing the monarchy with a democracy, allow the people to elect governmental officials, as it were, instead of the next in a bloodline. Soren put a hand to his chin for a moment, "Hmm." he said, pointing lightly to Yevgeni as he finished chewing. "A democracy is only as good as its people and the elected officials. As long as the people know who and what they want and those elected can deliver, it would be an effective system...but," Soren took a quick swig of his water, licking his lips to keep them working efficiently. "The monarchy is so ingrained into our society, our lives...I don't know if it'd go very smoothly, regardless of our plans." He concluded, taking another bite of his sandwich when he finished, allowing Yevgeni to resume into his next big point. The regent then elaborated upon his next course of action, something that completely took Soren by surprise. Targeting and combating Mystras was ruled as "useless", which pleased Soren, this war wasn't what the world needed right now, not by a long shot. Beyond that, he could only listen quietly as Yevgeni went on to say that regardless of their likely responsibility for Shiva's death, they weren't their prime issue at hand...it was the Humans. Soren almost choked on his sandwich when the words came out of Yevgeni's mouth, but still the Elf went on as Soren forced it down. He held them responsible for the crimes committed and intended to send an army down to their world, presumably to destroy their capital city and military might. It was then he stated that the Overworld was being strained by the magic being shared between worlds once more, a statement that produced internal disgust and anger in the demon. Yevgeni then finished his drink, concluding that he wished to pursue the dream of the late King Alexander and to allow entrance to the Overworld for salvation from their dying world, humans with pure hearts, as to leave the "bad" to die. Finally, he laid out the deal to Soren: Join him or be ostracized again and forever. Soren could barely contain his hate, his rage nor his disgust at that moment, clenching his fist, crushing his remaining bit of sandwich before breathing deeply and speaking finally. "Please, allow me to...to get the facts straight with myself here, Yevgeni...you seek to end our conflict with Mystras, that's good." He began, raising his hands after resting his elbows on the table. "Then you seek to eliminate the source of our issues, to eradicate the "Human problem"? To send our armies marching to their world that's only just begun to breathe again and crush them?" Soren went on, air quoting where needed and lowering his empty hand and tilting his head. "After that, you'll put them back into their chokehold and watch the "bad" die while you elevate the pure of heart to our world to survive, thereby finally cementing our race as the superior race with no equal or having to worry about any pesky "lesser beings"...is that about right?!" Soren then slammed the sandwich holding hand to the table, desperately trying to keep his composure, to little avail. "You would knowingly condemn their race to death, just as King Alexander did, but instead you're better because you're more...picky? Who are you to decide who gets to live and who deserves to die, Yevgeni?!" Soren couldn't hold back anymore, openly angry, but speaking in a low growl rather than shouting, his true rage shining through in such circumstances. "We're not Gods. We don't get to make that decision! A decision that began with a war caused by a greedy, power hungry minority of the Human Race who ruled enough and wielded enough power to make war with us oh so long ago...I'm not old enough to have been in the war, but I was in the close aftermath. I saw the disdain on Fey's faces whenever they even so much as thought "Human"..." Soren elaborated, gesturing as needed, but not breaking eye contact with Yevgeni. "I never quite understood it all, but then, I read the history books, I asked around, I even talked to her majesty about the same topic, as she was older than me, even an Eidolon...and then I understood as much as I could. I came to the conclusion that...that the Human Race, as a whole, did not deserve that fate, not for the actions of their leaders and gluttonous oafs." His words impassioned, Soren explained his views on Humanity and their ancient war with Feykind, particularly seeming...reminiscent at the mention of Shiva's honourific. "Yevgeni, I was there, I was! When Lord Raiden and Queen Shiva began to come to an accord...that maybe, the barrier just wasn't the solution anymore. It was then that progress was murdered right before us just as Shiva herself by a white robed assassin, laughing as he made his escape after brutalizing her body...now here I am, sitting with the Regent of Kilkis Seres, who's suggesting genocide as our solution?!" Soren began to get more angry, standing up from his seat and glaring at Yevgeni. "To condemn the civilians, the men, women and children who did nothing wrong, to suffocate, dry up and die?! I cannot abide this abhorrent course of action, I can't!" He added almost as a plea, but he sought no such thing from Yevgeni. Soren took a long time to breathe, his eyes closed before collecting his thoughts, looking at his destroyed sandwich, his own hand...and Yevgeni Malachite. "What you speak of is FAR from peaceful..." Soren then pointed at the regent. "You had better hope Prince Jynn returns soon, Yevgeni. Then perhaps, you'll still see me around, serving the "correct side". But I'd only do that as long as you were as far away from that throne as possible. Because in life and death, I serve Queen Shiva. And all those related to her, like I swore on her deathbed!" Soren announced, sweeping his arm downward before making a turn away toward the door. "And Lord Raiden is close enough, being her former lover. I'll live with the shame, because I won't betray the principles, the care...the heart, that was Queen Shiva de la Alexandria, who before her death...was more than willing to finally extend the hand of friendship to a race that deserves our attention, our care...our respect." Soren then began to walk away, parting with a remark. - Soren Monroe, Servant of Shiva's Will - "We're done here...thanks for the sandwich." Though he did stop for a moment to utter one last thing. "If you're wondering where I'm going, I'm headed to the armoury. I at least deserve to claim my last possessions before I depart for Mystras, "my liege". As I understand, that tradition hasn't been butchered by an arrogant, disgrace to his species. Farewell." With that, Soren began to depart the cooking tent.

Ooh? Ooh! Ooh...that plan, Yevgeni....Ooh. Here comes Soren's reply, Mystics.

Meksis: ...hey now. You're an all-star. Soren: Only if you're less scary, take me to dinner and court me, good sir. Nergal: I only ask why not Henry?

Congratulations to the participating staff! Every day, KH3 becomes more and more real to me...you know what I mean? It doesn't feel as far off anymore... I hope you enjoy it, Toominator and Raxaimus!

- Soren Monroe, the Penitent Traitor - Kilkis Seres Campsite, Dinner with Yevgeni - Soren was glad that Yevgeni was as eager to move on from the topic of Maxis as he was, the mere thought of what an unstable, uncontrollable Maxis could do was frightening, along with saddening as if Maxis had to die, what would become of Meksis too? He couldn't say, though he knew Meksis was a strong man of sound conviction, more sound than his own it seemed, he hadn't a clue how he dealt with grief. Nevertheless, once Yevgeni parted the tent's entrance, Soren was happy to accept the offer of entry, noting the chefs who despite working within the confines of a war camps tent, were able to make fine sandwiches filled with quite the selection of ingredients. The smile Yevgeni put on, alongside his gesture to the food prior to his departure to their "table", certainly seemed genuine. Soren got the impression he didn't smile often, mainly due to the lack of laughing lines, though that might be Elvish Youth at work. To tell the truth, Soren knew little about Elves, but every one he had met never looked old or weary. His thoughts were preoccupied, while he made his plate, taking a meat-based sandwich with a small smile and a short bow to his chefs before walking over to Yevgeni, sitting opposite him at the table and set his plate down. "Good evening." Soren spoke dryly, taking one half of his sandwich in hand. "So, tell me...what now?" He began, sniffing his sandwich first, not out of suspicion, but just to be sure of what he was eating, before taking a bite, taking the time to chew before resuming. "I mean, we're still unsure as to the state of our conflict with Mystras, Lord Raiden being implicated in the Queen's murder, a treacherous Sentinel seeking answers and now Maxis is losing his grip on the world..." Soren pondered, drinking from the vessel Yev gave him to wash down his bite, looking to the tent exit before he shifted his eyes back to Yevgeni. "As the regent, you must have a plan? In case no one else steps up...particularly, Shiva's poor son..." He added, showing sympathy for Jynn Venas, who hadn't been seen for a long while, though Soren didn't know this, he just assumed he must be grieving, wherever he was.

- Meksis, the United, Armour of Twilight - Kilkis Camp Outskirts, w/ Jynn and Company - Jynn reciprocated Meksis's handshake gladly, his remembrance of Meksis was limited at best yet it was enough for Jynn to appear to trust him. Either that was Meksis's natural aura at work, or Jynn deciding for himself, perhaps both? He couldn't say, but he was glad the new king was pleased to see him again. Though when Jynn began to look around, Meksis couldn't help but wonder what he might've been looking for. Surely by now, he had heard of the assassination of his mother, the queen, perhaps he was on the lookout for her killer or maybe some ambitious fools looking to take advantage of the dissent and chaos. Jynn's next words almost put those thoughts to rest, as he merely sought the current regent, Yevgeni Malachite, likely to speak to him and relieve him of his duties, for the king had returned. "I'm afraid I don't know where exactly Yevgeni is, but he shouldn't be far, he was giving a declamation--" Meksis paused, tilting his head briefly at himself before straightening up again. "Er, speech, to all present here, moments ago. He should still be within the Campgrounds." He corrected himself and went on assuredly, then he extended a hand lightly. "If you wish, I could escort you into the Camp and assist in finding him? It would be my honour to serve you. My liege." Meksis proposed, adding the proper form of address as to instill confidence in Jynn, believing he could truly take his mother's place rather than leave the regent in charge. Meksis's attention was then grabbed by the sudden greeting of a Cyph, who was leaning to the side from behind the new king to peek at the armour before speaking out. "Hello there! And, you are?" He replied kindly. - Nergal, the Queenslayer - Kilkis Camp Outskirts, in the shadows - It was as Nergal hoped, the gathering taking place was between Shiva's loyalists and her heir. They would seek to undermine his and Yevgeni's plan by forcing the latter out of his position of power...Nergal growled quietly to himself. He couldn't allow this, this treason against Yevgeni to transpire. "Yevgeni is the new, true power in Kilkis Seres...this King, is but a pretender. I will silence him as I silenced Shiva." Nergal spoke internally before sneaking back into the Camp, seeking to find and use a weapon, a dagger optimally. He cursed Lord Raiden under his breath for the destruction of the Feyslayer he had used before. A righteous gift from Yevgeni that was and a suitable weapon indeed..."Looks like I'll need to craft my own, as it were." Soon after approaching the Camp's Armoury, Nergal had spotted a Guard, possibly a Royal Guardsmen of the Queen judging by his regal armour, who seemed uncomfortable. Absent-minded. His morale was low after hearing news of his monarchs demise and with no queen to protect, he had been reassigned to the Armoury and its safekeeping. A dull duty compared to before, Nergal thought, as he scanned him visually: The Guardsmen carried his spear in his right hand, with a large shield slacking on his left arm and his body was constantly shifting, his shoulders rolling as he was unsettled and judging by his inaction toward the horn that sounded earlier, was definitely in low spirits. His eyes lit up beneath his hood when he spotted something: A sheathed dagger upon the back of his belt, presumably used in emergencies, as a last stand weapon, but it was more than suitable. Silently closing in on the Guardsmen, Nergal longingly reached for the daggers handle, it was as regal and ceremonial as the Royal Guard who carried it, as was the sheath. Clutching it without drawing his attention, Nergal drew it from the sheath slowly and gently, the sounds made were relatively minor, particularly compared to the bustle of the camp. The further rolling and adjustment of the Guards armour completely drowned out the noise regardless as Nergal succeeded, taking the dagger for himself and disappearing into the shadows to re-position back to where he was before. "A fine blade indeed...and is it...?" Nergal poked the tip of the dagger very lightly, like a feather and still, he recoiled a little from the prickle of pain. "Ahh! ...perfect." He uttered quietly as he began to channel various energies of his into the blade via his hand. Darkness and his own powers of the void, the Nothingness, seeped into the blade, but the former was the most foul, having been accumulated from many years of Meksis's service prior to Nergal's awakening, the blade's former metallic shine was morphed into a violet shade consumed by black waves and dark red speckles all edging from the dagger, more than enough to ensure a painful, swift death. "Now...we wait...come on, "king", turn around...!" Nergal waited almost impatiently, but stifled his eagerness and just observed the party...watching. Waiting. Hoping.

Several things: One: Very nice rendition of the Overworld Map there, Elrandir. (Also, you did the North as well? I must've missed that.) The Second: Hugs for Scrapmaster. *Hugs* Drei: Deeply sorry for my own delay, I'll be posting today and soon. IV: I'm still trying to find an excuse/reason to evolve Soren, coming up empty, dagnabit. 5: Hello there!