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Fantasy Axelis Fantasia (Inactive)

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Axelis Fantasia (Inactive) Axelis Fantasia - World Lore Axelis Fantasia - Characters
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Esther
Undying Dawnseeker
Falhades, Exultius | Paymonia
"Your trust honors us, your highness." Esther acquiesces, ducking forward from the shadier part of the room she'd kept to with the first sound she'd made since her crisp introduction to the rest out in the dark of that piece of forest that met the wall. The darkness of her pupils glitter in the golden light of the room, watching with interest as the man she had presumed was loyal to the princess demonstrates the extent of that same dutifulness.
Nothing more than a favor was this?
Perhaps a debt now repaid?
The allegiance of his heart lies elsewhere.

It was a hook. A delicious piece of the puzzle that added a sense of zest to the mundane path of chivalrous servitude it appeared she would be walking. It had not been something the Draculus had been expecting at all. The draw of it catches her fickle interest in a trap. Even as her pulseless heart excites at the casual drawing of mouthwateringly warm lifesblood, both by the curious instrument and by the even more curious Aerouant girl, Esther smiles genuinely.
I wonder if we will have to kill him later...

The journey here had been a marvelous game of keeping much to herself and observing. The stabbing hate towards the Nephilim had been kept well in check by the sheer amusing variety of of compatriots soon to play with, even if his boil of a presence still itched her when her attention slipped by him on the way to something more interesting. They were from all walks of life, all manner of people, a tapestry of temperaments and little individualities.
It was easy to keep back and silent, to let the wave of the moment and the small crowd carry her onward and away to her eventual waiting radiance.
For all intents and purposes, the ethereal hand of the Goddess herself might as well have been gilding the tunnel that had brought them here. She had walked it serenely, not exactly aloof, but quiet in the way an old gravestone sits in the shade of a blooming apple tree.

And Esther knew well how to keep quiet.
The molten blade understands well the mallet that beats it into shape.

O Vanhela, beautiful and kind, your faithful daughter has found an end to the solemnity of her vigil.

"Such trust must be repaid in kind," the draculus continues, the curious shiver of feeling, of life, in her breast driving her into a countenance a little more animated than before, "and willing to see that it remains unbroken I be. What you have decided in terms of separating this charming coterie will be... fascinating."

Interaction: Arkangel Arkangel (Solara)
Audience: @/everyone
 
Aristaios Solon
Relentless Sojourner
Madaheim Forest, Capital Exultius, Falhades

For a moment Aristaios was very confused. Virtue was neither making a cruel jest, nor was he in denial. He sincerely did not know of Prince Wilhelm's death, though how anyone could remain ignorant of the largest source of gossip since the end of the war was a mystery to him. A life debt, is it? Fascinating. It certainly fit, on reflection. He could well imagine that the Nephilim's pride would not abide being indebted to anyone. There was also no other reason he could picture for someone like him to involve himself with a quest founded on pure idealism. He would watch for Virtue's reaction when the Princess broke the news. Would he grieve, as for a friend, or would he merely be frustrated to have lost the chance to pay his dues?

At the same time, he was gratified to witness the banter between the Cat-Beastiard- Anthus, he remembered- and the blonde Azelthyrian woman. After the tensions he had already witnessed, it was a relief to see some of their number getting on well. If they could not all put their differences aside for the sake of the cause, they would fail before they began. Some had no reservations about sacrificing a drop of blood to the Stargazer, and those who did bared their flesh nonetheless. Even the wary Draculus rolled back his sleeve despite his aversion to "strange magic". It spoke well of their commitment. A glance at the feral Aerouant revealed she had found a way around the predicament posed by her impenetrable appendages, though her willingness to shed her own blood was slightly concerning. As for himself, though he had many anxieties, sharp objects did not place very high on the list. A moment of pain was a moment of pain. Nothing more. Even so, he would wait until it was decided who could afford to forego the ritual before he volunteered himself. He was not eager to leave another comrade without means of communication.

A pang in his chest accompanied the young human's mention of sending letters. In all the years he had been abroad, he had not sent his family a single letter since the Godslayer's betrayal of their race, and the guilt weighed on him still. At first, his excuse had been that it would only cause them frustration, since any letters they sent would not reach him on the move. Later his excuse had been that reminders of the past would only bring them sadness. In truth, he wanted them to forget him. That was the real reason, and he knew it. It would ease his conscience somewhat if all his broken promises and wasted potential were swallowed by the mists of time. Their lives had moved on in his absence, and his existence would now be an intrusion, no different from that of a stranger. This was as it should be. Someday, perhaps... if they really did establish a land of true peace and equality, he might once again show his face among them. Perhaps he might even bring them there. But for now, he had stumbled into yet another convenient excuse for his silence. It was horrible of him, but what could be done?

While the Princess answered the others' queries, his own was addressed, with her permission, by the woman Knight. Until now he had been too preoccupied to pay much mind to her presence, but now he gave her his full attention, nodding along to her explanation. So, they would be assigned into groups in advance, each headed by a holder of one of the magic pens. Their first destination would be Stadtholm, where those who chosen for the task would impersonate haulers of Pyralite. Her digression also interested him. By "pseudo-mark", did she mean a false Chaos Root mark? Was there a market for those? But what use would one be, outside of posturing? But she was right. It was better to stay on topic. Set at ease by her friendly, talkative manner, and relieved of the necessity of pestering the Princess, he felt comfortable voicing his thoughts once more.

"I see... A very sound plan. Thank you, My Lady. Ah... may I ask what the rest of us will be doing while the designated group retrieves the packages?"

Sir Reymond once again appeared to hasten them on their way, his harsh manner catching Aristaios by surprise. He glanced between him and the Princess, trying to fathom the nature of their relationship. Clearly, he meant what he said about his role in this venture ending with the dawn. Solara answered only with a respectful bow, which was not returned, before expressing a heartfelt farewell to the white-haired Knight. Evidently the two of them had their own mission to carry out in the name of the late Prince, the details of which were not known even to the Princess. Plans within plans! Aristaios' admiration for Prince Wilhelm grew still more as he began to grasp the scale of the grand scheme he had managed set in motion before his death. To think that he, of all people, a humble scholar with nothing to his name, would be so privileged as to witness the unfolding of his designs. Would the world ever understand what it had lost when it lost him? What treasures of wisdom and knowledge, what youthful energy and idealism and passion for reform...?

But it was up to them now. Aristaios checked to be sure he had all his belongings about him, and straightened his shoulders. Now was not the time for looking back- only forward.

Interactions: Arkangel Arkangel Khocolatte Khocolatte
Audience: @/everyone
 
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SHUFEN LIANG
Hurricane Maverick
Midaheim Forest

Shufen wasn’t too sure how to feel as Solara laid her hand over hers and Otis’ bare arms. Part of her felt happy that she didn’t have to be poked with a needle, but part of her felt useless—rejected even. Initially, as she exposed her arm, her palm was open. But upon hearing Solara’s words, the blonde Azelthyrian made a fist and pulled her hand away from the princess. However, her face didn’t betray her feelings. Despite how she felt, she had a grin on her face. Shufen brought her hand up to her head, back of head against forehead as if she was wiping away sweat.

“So Azelthyrian blood ain’t gonna cut it? Understandable! That’s one less thing I gotta be poked with.” It wasn’t anything personal, she just hated needles.

But did the princess misinterpret her words? She chuckled after Shufen’s little nervous sentence earlier. Wait, what else could Shufen be poked with? A hand went to her chin as she hummed under her breath. Perhaps she was reading too much into Solara’s micro-reactions. Regardless, she got the memo. Shufen stepped back for anyone else on this little list to recieve the magic of the Stargazer.

What did the Draculus call this? Strange magic? As she stepped back, she continued observing the man. Easily annoyed, cautious—she picked up on the slight tremor in his voice—nervous, perhaps? Surely it was more than a simple fear of needles. Surely there weren’t two people who feared needles in the same room. What even would be the chances of that? Regardless, despite his mannerisms, she still listened to Solara. Maybe this guy isn’t as stuck-up as Shufen initially thought. Before she could approach the Draculus, the Imperial Knight from earlier made his presence known.

“Our partnership ends here. May our next encounter be peaceful."

Were there some issues Shufen didn’t know about? How perplexing. She looked at Solara, the white-haired knight, ,then back at Reymond. In the midst of her confusion, she noticed the bow that was not returned by the Imperial Knight. How upsetting. Her gaze stayed on Sir Reymond, watching him command guards and leave the room. She strained her neck as she looked behind her, making sure this Reymond fellow wasn’t going to hear her. Rationally, he was long gone. Rationally, he was human—or at least looked human. But this was Shufen, an Azelthyrian who overthought everything.

“Am I overthinking this? Or is the Imperial Knight fella potentially gonna be an issue of sorts, mister vampire?” She spoke softly, loud enough for Otis to hear.

Her gaze then darted over to Aristaios, an Aerouant. She had never seen one up close, but so far he looked interesting, respectful even, as he conversed with the female knight. He looked over his belongings, which prompted Shufen to do the same. Everyone around her seemed to be serious about this, something that felt off to Shufen. Or was she the one seeming off? Regardless, as shiftlessly as she could, she looked over her own belongings. Daggers, check. She then patted her pockets. Brass knuckles, check. She then rolled her shoulders, feeling the weight of her small, foldable crossbow on her back. Also check. A hand then went up to her cap, making sure they covered her horns.

Shufen looked ready, but did she feel ready? Who knows.

Interactions: Arkangel Arkangel (Solara) / NUSKI NUSKI (Otis)

Audience: @/everyone

 
O T I S
Ashen Sanguisuge
Capital Falhades, Exultius
Hot air rushed out of Otis' nose in response to the princess before he pulled his exposed arm back under the comfort of his sleeve. "I'm not worried... just cautious," he replied, his eyes checking to see if anyone had heard what she said, although at a much lower volume than before as he noticed Solara's attention already shifting to someone else in the group. He felt a familiar itch where a finger was supposed to be and let his body relax as a sense of relief washed over him. Despite not wanting anything to do with the 'Stargazer' magic, he couldn't help but wonder if his people had become so insignificant that there was barely any research on their blood.

The faint smile on his face dissipated as the blonde woman previously engaged in conversation with the Bestiard spoke up. "Firstly..." Otis started, his unblinking gaze drawn to her golden eyes, not too different from his own. "Otis is my name. Otis, you hear? Not Mister Vampire." He had half a mind to end his sentence referring to her as a cave-dwelling rodent but caught himself just in time. Treating everyone as a hostile entity was a poor habit he had developed over the decades and something he would have to put a lid on if this was to be a long-term arrangement.

Otis' leaned his head where the Imperial Knight stood moments before, only to notice he was now gone. Since his magical display near the mouth of the tunnel, he had paid little attention to the man, his thoughts dancing between the red-haired Nephilim and blood magic.

"...And it depends on what you mean by issue. Does he plan to kill us or lead us to our deaths? Highly unlikely. Now would have been the best time to do so, with all of us together. 'Take out all of us starting with the princess, but leave one alive for interrogations... it's what I'd do." Otis paused to look up at the white-haired woman with vague suspicion. He pulled a glass vial filled with animal blood from his belt holster and swallowed its contents in one gulp.

"If you're paranoid now, you should consider the theory that one of us may be a spy for the Godslayer... like him," Otis continued in a hushed tone, nodding his head in the direction of the red-haired man who had led the second half to the group to the tunnel. As if on cue, the man spoke up, addressing a question from the Aerouant.

"Each group has their own package to retrieve, since they're located on different streets, so there won't be an 'other' group. We'll merge again once we've got the packages. Now, if there's anything that I would like to echo from Sir Reymond, it would be that we don't have much time to waste. This might be a safe place to convene for now, but you'll never know which guards—or, Vanhela forbid, the Godslayer himself—could be lurking around. I believe our rides have arrived not too long ago, so any further questions can be explained along the way. Everything has been set up, so please hastily make your way once you're ready, Princess."

"Fun," Otis muttered absently, his eagerness to have the sky above him and the grass below his feet causing him to become impatient.

Interaction(s): Arkangel Arkangel voided voided
 
Anthy Casimir Grey
Prince of Tarnished Silver
Midaheim Forest
Oof. Birth-named by the princess. He knows it’s nothing personal and so suppresses a twist of his face. Still, it makes the kitten deep down inside of him bristle a bit to hear, like he’s expecting a reprimand next. He thumps his tail agitatedly once or twice; smiling serenely all the while, the action could easily pass for a simple wagging of tail. Whenever there’s a lull, Anthy theatrically clears his throat to address the audience at large.

“To whomever it may concern, you can go ahead and just call me Anthy; no need for formalities! Forest-folk don’t really do it like that, and besides, we’re all grown-ups here, aren’t we? I think we’re probably going to get acquainted with each other really quickly.” He lolls his head back to watch the princess’ (comrades? servitors?) traipse away until they’re just silhouettes. “‘Least we get to ease into it with a fetch quest or two, before we have to hold hands and sing songs and all that~”

Int: @/All
 
Aetheros Virtus
Brilliant Sol
Midaheim Forest - Falhades

With every passing moment in silence, gnawing dread crawled along straightened spine as melancholy Princess steeled her spirit to reciprocate his well-intentioned inquiry; having steadied himself against the wooden table in vain attempt to relieve his feet their strain, he soon comprehended the looming foreboding which lingered inbetwixt them all unsaid, though he’d faced the Princess in nonchalance, growing animation penetrated his ordinarily calm glimpses, and growing distance placed itself between him and the others.

He’d heard his fill before the Princess felt the need to strain herself by speaking it aloud, distracting himself instead once more through casual observance toward the map, memories thought ordinary found themselves recaptured within his psyche at the sudden enlightenment. Though sadness had gripped him faintly, it was the first he’d sensed it, therefore lacking the adequate understanding to put it in proper. Though others spoke, it was noise to him, as he instead sighed in subdued hush; “I see, I suppose I will have to lend my hand in aid for your escapade- though I am unsure whether tapping the blood of a Nephilim in the Imperial Capital is as wise an idea as has ever been discovered.”

He raised his hand, and scratched his temple through an index well-adorned by ring of gold and rubies well refined. He’d lost his trail of mind, Reymond’d left, and so too had his inquiries gone with him, to be so shaken by the simplest test did not sit rightly with him; ascension no doubt far more arduous than a simple missing friendship. Yet, all the same, where he’d felt driven, he now felt wanting; nights spent in taverns on the adventurous path, and knowledge gained through cooperation and accumulated fame. The Prince was one who’d make friends of anyone, himself counted amongst such rung, quite evidently to himself at the very least.

Though their meeting had been brief, amounting no more than a couple months in span, he’d make kindred-kind with one of few of the world’s open minds. It would seem that it was never meant to be, or last, for long. Though his years had passed, and no significant breakthrough grasped, the time he’d spent with the Prince had been ones of joy and symphony. And though doubtless he’d met others and shared himself with them, as he’d done with him, it felt bitter all the same.

There were others within the room who’d shared memories with him, just like himself, and though he’d not known of them personally, he felt connected with their subdued pain in unportrayed fashion. Though he loomed over the table, hands placed firmly upon its edge, he tightened his grip, the urge to vaporize something manifests, reined in by the growing clarity of their limited time.

Though he’d been at the fore of attention here-to, he would instead shuffle himself along the moderately long convoy; he needed time to himself. When they had said that the time for further questions was somewhere else, he had committed himself to isolation of mind, not one to present his weaknesses- though there were certainly few- for others’ bite.

Instead, sensations of being robbed welled within, robbed of a friend, an opportunity none ever could comprehend, and though he lived in a time beyond the present he was affected by it all the same.

Interaction: Arkangel Arkangel (Solara)
Audience: @ Everyone
 
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SHUFEN LIANG
Hurricane Maverick
Midaheim Forest

Her gaze met his, unflinching as Otis corrected her in a stern manner. Shufen simply shrugged at Otis’ retort to her nickname of his. Personally, she saw nothing wrong with calling him Mister Vampire. He literally lived up to his name. Interlocking her fingers and placing her hands against the back of her head, she simply tilted her head. “Do Draculi take offense to being called Vampires? Or are you just a stickler to like, not wanting to be called anything but Otis?” A wide grin popped on her face as she began introducing herself. “Ah, since we’re here, my name is Shufen. Nice to meet’cha.”

Did ‘Mister Vampire’ ask for her name? Not at all. Does she care? Also not at all.

As he sent a query back to her, the Azelthyrian lowered her hands and arms, placing a hand on her chin as she looked towards the exit of the room.

“Hmm... Probably not the killing or leading us to our deaths, but moreso just coming in our way and being difficult if Sola—the princess,” she corrected herself. “and us do things that he doesn’t technically agree with. I guess I have some pretty unorth- unorthi...” How does one say this word again? Oh, whatever. “I have some pretty unusual ways of handling things due to the stuff I picked up on.” As he looked away at the woman near Solara, the Azelthyrian did the same.

Shufen wasn’t suspicious of her. The way the white-haired woman and the Princess were talking showed some sense of trust and camaraderie between the two. Surely the Princess wouldn’t have asked for help from someone she didn’t trust or befriend, right? Regardless, she had no reason to voice her opinions on the unknown woman for now. If the princess was okay with them, that was okay for Shufen.

“I’m not paranoid, just wondering.” Shufen’s gaze lingered on the white-haired woman a bit longer, voice still hushed. before looking over at Reinier. “Hmm... I don’t think he could be on the Godslayer’s side. If he really was, he would have done exactly like you said; smite us all here, quell the journey before it began.” Her gaze then fell back to Otis, giving him a playful tap on the arm closest to her. “Well, no need to be paranoid for now, I think everyone here is good. We’re stopping the Godslayer and whoever comes in our way, yeah?”

As Reinier explained the job, Shufen absentmindedly gave him a two-finger salute, grin still on her face.

“Do you already have the groups split, or is that something you’re gonna wing as we get towards our rides.” She asked a passing question over to Reinier, taking one step towards the exit. Shufen raised one hand like a schoolgirl asking a question. “Ah yeah! I’m ready to leave whenever. So whenever Solara jiejie is ready to head out, I’m prepared.”

Was she allowed to use the princess' name?

Interactions: NUSKI NUSKI (Otis) / Khocolatte Khocolatte (Reinier)

Audience: @/everyone

 
Iana Ilmarinen
Wistful Wanderer
Falhades, Exultius | Paymonia


Iana withdrew her hand from the Princess as her outstretched offer of blood was rejected. She had thought the more people to fill in the messenger role the better, as perils seemed to wait in every corner of this quest. Regardless, she did not object to the Princess’s decision.

In the following scenes when the Princess’s aid took their leave, she frowned. Already distrust had set in among the group—strangers they were, and not to be blamed when most’s debts and allegiance belonged to the Prince, not his kin. A fine line they tread between caution and lightheartedness, some leaned to one side, and some to the others. For Iana’s part, she preferred the make-merry way. If betrayal had already been dictated by fate, it was of little use to corrupt this flimsy harmony any further.

“The name is Iana,” she joined in with the others who had already named themselves, “Trust is hard earned but easily lost. And so it makes the best gift to one another, which I give mine to all of you as a token of friendship, and ask for it in return if you’re so willing.”

Interaction: everyone

 
Chapter 1 - Beneath the Mist
  • Index
    • Solara Evernight
    Scorching Inflorescence
    Falhades, Exultius | Paymonia
    Idalia’s glamorous charm was ineluctable. Perhaps the others have noticed that her character carried an aura of a distinguished woman. A sensible knight whose honor knew no limit. A warrior of benevolence, fighting for the side that is just—as quixotic as it sounded, considering her age and mark in history, it was clear to Solara that her feats were not fantastical. In fact, it was quite the opposite. Like the immovable Reymond Heracles, who had his own story to share with those who thought negatively of him, she was someone that Solara desperately sought for guidance after her brother’s passing from the cruel blade of her father.

    Solara spent the next few seconds in silence. She returned the kind gesture with a wave of her own before resting her arms on the table before her. All she could think of at that moment was a wish that the two of them would conclude their journey and rest, just like how her brother would have wanted. But no longer could she lament, and instead found courage before the group that she was fated to lead towards glory. It was then that she reclaimed the fortitude that was welded deep within her after that traumatic day. This was the time and moment that she worked hard for, and she wasn’t going to allow a mere farewell to ruin the beginning.

    The Sword Saint’s voices reached her loud and clear. She closed her eyes and took a deep breath, before opening them to gaze upon each individual that gathered here today. Despite still being curious about the little Aerouant that had appeared in the stead of the red-headed dragon, she was going to have to consult her about it once their location was secure. With that in mind, she began the move.

    NUSKI NUSKI "...And it depends on what you mean by issue. Does he plan to kill us or lead us to our deaths? Highly unlikely. Now would have been the best time to do so, with all of us together. 'Take out all of us starting with the princess, but leave one alive for interrogations... it's what I'd do."


    “Nonsense,” Solara would interject quickly, “that man is no enemy of ours. Rest assured our paths will not cross until fate desires it. But even then, I doubt we will greet each other once again as enemies. Like the saint, he is a man of honor. A little rough, but still virtuous and trustworthy.”

    Malphaestus Malphaestus “I see, I suppose I will have to lend my hand in aid for your escapade- though I am unsure whether tapping the blood of a Nephilim in the Imperial Capital is as wise an idea as has ever been discovered.”


    “I will announce the names of those who will receive the Stargazer’s treatment once we have successfully left Falhades. For now, think none of it. Speaking of... I believe we should get going, as the Sword Saint has suggested.” Solara nodded to Reinier, acknowledging his comment.

    Solara was quick to order the surrounding guards to pack the items on the table as they followed through with the command. With haste, the princess paved the road for the others to follow, gesturing at them as she spoke out loud, “It is time! Cease your conversations and gather momentum! There is no more time to spare, we must exit the Midaheim Forest by dawn!”

    End of Chapter 0. Prologue


    Start of Chapter 1. Beneath the Mist

    Exiting the castle did not require much effort, as the road remained smooth and without disturbance. Throughout the short journey into the hallways of the castle, some would have the chance to briefly lay their eyes on ornaments and paintings that would cost no less than ten thousand rubies.

    The magnitude of the castle’s rooms was not to be taken lightly. Doors would only reveal a larger room than before, with walking space that allowed the group to space out instead of having to walk shoulder to shoulder. It was before they would eventually make it to the outside world, where the moon still gazed upon them from the dark skies above, did the group notice that the choice vehicle that they would travel in was an old-fashioned wagon, designed to look like the carriage of an underprivileged merchant.

    They had reached a point in the area where friendly guards were no longer present. Including the ones that had moved along with them, the only ones who were in this secluded area of the castle’s yard were Solara and her Ashen Knights, and the moon that covered a good chunk of the sky’s beauty. Before the horse-powered carriage was a road that led them to the eastern border into Midaheim Forest, where they would need to enter before allowing themselves to be comfortable for the rest of the night.

    “I have a feeling that they’ve caught on rather earlier than I hoped.” the princess voiced her concern, having taken note of the fact that the carriage was unmanned. A contingency plan had to be put into effect. “The soldier that was supposed to disguise himself as the merchant is not here. Meaning, he was most likely pulled for a round-up from those not affiliated with my brother’s guards. It seems my absence has already been reported,” Solara spoke for everyone to hear, but was specifically relaying this information to Reinier, who would then know what that meant.

    Solara turned to face everyone that was standing before the carriage, “I will need everyone’s cooperation from here on out. As unfortunate as it may be, I am most likely being searched by my father’s loyal guards. Thankfully, it seems they’ve barely begun their search. We must enter Midaheim within the next 45 minutes. This carriage will take us there, but because of the absence of the man who was originally supposed to help us there, it seems we must take it upon our own hands to navigate to the eastern border.”

    “Sir Reinier will take half of the group and travel on foot. Worry not, I doubt your identity is currently under surveillance. But expect your names to be blacklisted from Exultius once we make it into the forest. As for the reason for this split, I will take the other half and drive the carriage into the capital’s center road. Meanwhile, Sir Reinier and his comrades will coordinate us toward the safest route where the guards are not inspecting every vehicle. And if we end up landing ourselves in accidental trouble...”

    Solara found it in her to let out a brief chuckle. “Well, as much as I’d like to avoid bloodshed, we must do the necessary deeds. Now, before we go - who wishes to volunteer to be our coordinator?”

    Interaction: Khocolatte Khocolatte Malphaestus Malphaestus Monday Monday voided voided WinterFestivity WinterFestivity lunar_moth lunar_moth ATurei ATurei NUSKI NUSKI Kloudy Kloudy accursedjobber accursedjobber OverconfidentMagi OverconfidentMagi SleepySheepiez SleepySheepiez
     
  • Index
    • Aristaios Solon
    Relentless Sojourner
    Falhades, Exultius | Paymonia

    By the tender words that passed between the Princess and the Lady Knight- in particular, the latter's gentle encouragement of her young liege- Aristaios was afforded some small glimpse of the deep bond of comradeship between them, forged by shared travails and joys alike. What little he had seen of this woman's conduct impressed him; he returned her curtsey with a bow. If they should indeed meet again, he would be as glad to hear her name and story as she was to give it, even at the price of expounding his own pitiful history. "Likewise. Fare thee well, My Lady..." He found, welling up from within, the old Ukrethian words of parting: "...and may the stars of wisdom light your way."

    Alas, he feared the present company was but a poor substitute for such fine companions as these. Even the recalcitrant Sir Reymond merited a sincere respect. As his gaze came to rest on the noble figure of the Princess, her back to him as she braced herself against the table, he resolved to do all in his power, however little that may be, to support her. At the very least he himself would do nothing to cause her grief. If only he were a person of more account... Meanwhile, he nodded in response to the hurried explanation given by the Sword Saint in answer to his question. Of course, as usual, he was far from satisfied, but this was neither the time nor the place to discuss every detail of their future plans. Princess Solara's defense of the Imperial Knight assured him that his somewhat ominous parting words- "May our next meeting be peaceful"- meant no threat.

    He was relieved, also, to hear, in response to Virtue's cautionary remark, that those who would give their blood to the Stargazer had already been decided. Until their means of communication was firmly established he could not be fully at ease, but they could not afford delay. At Sir Reiner's urging, the Princess rallied them all for the next stage of their journey, bringing this brief council to an end. Aristaios was quick to follow, and stayed as close to her side as he dared.


    Caution, swiftness, silence- such aspirations ought to have absorbed his full attention, but Aristaios' frantic thoughts would not be quelled even by proximity to abject peril. As a matter of fact, he had nearly frozen with shock when he discovered their route lead through the castle itself. Carrying out treasonous affairs right under his nose, infiltrating his capital by way of secret passages and conducting clandestine councils of war beneath his very residence were not enough- they must go traipsing around the abode of the Godslayer himself! Madness. Madness. Utter madness. Suppose one of those forbidding, ornately carved doors they passed lead to his private apartments! No, he reflected, Princess Solara would not be so insanely bold as all that. The Sovreign's powers of extrasensory perception were reputed to be formidable.

    Even as he strained his eyes and ears and jumped at shadows, he could not refrain from taking in the sights, cataloguing each item of interest and making observations both of Exultian culture generally and of their ruler's personal taste. His aborted research was never wholly forgotten. For one thing, this ostentatious opulence contrasted sharply with Ukrethia's more subdued sensibilities. An orderly, martial spirit was reflected even in decor, discipline and restraint being the marks of a gentleman and decadence betraying weakness and excess- or arrogance. It was not fair to hold another culture to the same standards, he knew, and ritual ornamentation certainly had its place. However, he couldn't help but wonder whether the grandeur with which the mighty ruler had surrounded himself did not, perhaps, reflect a corresponding delusion in his self-regard. Might mental excess manifest in physical excess?

    His thoughts strayed also to his companions. Virtue's response to the death of the one to whom he owed the greatest debt, glimpsed here and there as he was able, had betrayed not so much grief or frustration as something like... disappointment. Though he had steeled himself to contend with the present, he was clearly troubled. Aristaios deemed this sufficient proof that he had genuinely cared for the Prince. Now he seemed to be keeping to himself, lost in thought. As for the others, he matched their faces to those names gleaned from what he had overheard of their conversation: there was Otis, the prickly, nervous Draculus; Anthy, the enthusiastic and friendly Beastiard; Shufen, the equally friendly if slightly odd Azelthyrian; and Iana, the other Azelthyrian, who seemed gentle, collected and amiable. The small Aerouant had not yet said a word. If the rest had introduced themselves, he had missed it.

    Aristaios' immense relief when the oppressive light and warmth of the palace gave way to cool night air and moonlight was not fated to last. A complication had presented itself. According to the Princess, their liaison at this juncture had not appeared, meaning her absence was discovered and the hunt was afoot. Already the plan was going to ruin! Aristaios' heart leaped to his throat. He could feel it pounding as he listened desperately to their leader, all but clinging to the calm in her voice as much as to the words themselves. All was not lost. A moment later, he was ashamed. From the beginning, he had been afraid of this- that at the moment of truth his faintheartedness would take hold. What were all his brave resolutions worth if this was how he behaved when the moment for courage came? Even if this were a doomed quest, he had committed his life to it, for better or worse, and he was honor bound to uphold that commitment even unto death.

    So be it! He took a deep breath and forced himself to rally- and, in so doing, found that it was not so hard as he had feared. Now his shame was tinged with a hint of wry amusement. Steady, Aristaios. As always, he had been getting ahead of himself. What needed to be done right now, in this moment? They would need to enter Midaheim forest within the next forty-five minutes. One group would accompany the Princess in the wagon, while the other would scout ahead with Sir Reiner for the safest route. As if in direct answer to his question, the Princess asked for volunteers to accompany the Sword Saint. Aristaios thought for a moment. He glanced side to side at his companions. Silence seemed to stretch into infinity, though it could hardly have been a few seconds. Finally, he heard his own voice, thin and wavering.

    "Your Highness, I happen to be somewhat familiar with the forests and roads in this area... provided it hasn't changed much in the last thirty years or so. This isn't my first time fleeing Falhades. I've also been told I have a sharp eye. I will accompany Sir Reiner, if you wish." Now, then. It was time to make himself useful.

    Interactions: Arkangel Arkangel Khocolatte Khocolatte
    Audience: @/everyone
     
    Last edited:
    O T I S
    Ashen Sanguisuge
    Capital Falhades, Exultius
    “Nonsense,” Solara would interject quickly, “that man is no enemy of ours. Rest assured our paths will not cross until fate desires it. But even then, I doubt we will greet each other once again as enemies. Like the saint, he is a man of honor. A little rough, but still virtuous and trustworthy.”

    "Glad to hear it, your highness" Otis replied impassively as he forcefully packed the empty vial back into his pouch. If he was previously unsure of Solara's capability to usurp her father, he was utterly unconvinced now. All people were merely facts of nature in Otis' eyes. They were all capable of betrayal, and to him, only a fool would consider any individual wholly trustworthy. It wasn't too long ago that he was one of those nameless fools, Otis thought, as his eyes briefly landed on the red-haired Nephilim. The princess's blind faith in the Imperial Knight only made him more stubborn in his suspicions.

    “I’m not paranoid, just wondering.” Shufen’s gaze lingered on the white-haired woman a bit longer, voice still hushed. before looking over at Reinier. “Hmm... I don’t think he could be on the Godslayer’s side. If he really was, he would have done exactly like you said; smite us all here, quell the journey before it began.” Her gaze then fell back to Otis, giving him a playful tap on the arm closest to her. “Well, no need to be paranoid for now, I think everyone here is good. We’re stopping the Godslayer and whoever comes in our way, yeah?”

    Otis slowly looked down at the spot on his arm where he was touched as if some rash had just sprouted from it. He wasn't exactly sure if he was supposed to laugh or touch her back; after all this time social cues were lost to him. "...Yes..." he slowly began. He lifted his hand and poked Shufen, his index finger awkwardly resting there for a few awkward seconds before continuing. "...To stopping the Godslayer." Otis poked twice more, feeling quite satisfied with himself before turning his attention to the approaching Azelthryian.

    “The name is Iana,” she joined in with the others who had already named themselves, “Trust is hard earned but easily lost. And so it makes the best gift to one another, which I give mine to all of you as a token of friendship, and ask for it in return if you’re so willing.”

    If I was a spy, I would attempt to establish trust almost immediately.

    "I have enough friends, Iana." A blatant lie, of course. Otis had no friends.

    "As for trusting you, I will wait for the first sign of danger to pass judgment," Otis continued, oblivious to the fact that he had once fled in the heat of conflict. "Trusting people blindly, especially strangers, is foolish. For all you know I could be waiting for you to sleep so I can drain the blood from your body," the Draculus ended, a wishful smirk briefly appearing on his face before he lifted his hood over his head and followed the princess.

    * * *​

    Otis had positioned himself at the back of the group once again, offering the occasional head turn to make sure the dark-haired Imperial Knight wasn't following them. Fortunately this time, the trip did not involve burning letters with magic or glowing mushrooms. Before he could let his thoughts wander any further, he couldn't help but gawk at the paintings. He was amazed, not by the assumed talent it took to create the images but by their ugliness. He was certain that Adeline would have liked them; she was fond of art, especially those found in human settlements. They were no doubt expensive, but provided no practical use and were unnecessarily distracting. If they somehow came out on top of all this, he would be sure to ask Solara to replace the paintings with more weapons, animal skull mounts or furs.

    It was not long before they were outside, the familiar starry sky above Otis lifting his mood almost immediately.

    “I have a feeling that they’ve caught on rather earlier than I hoped.” the princess voiced her concern, having taken note of the fact that the carriage was unmanned. A contingency plan had to be put into effect. “The soldier that was supposed to disguise himself as the merchant is not here. Meaning, he was most likely pulled for a round-up from those not affiliated with my brother’s guards. It seems my absence has already been reported.”

    Nevermind.

    He thought it would take at least a couple of days for something to go wrong. He couldn't help but swivel his head around, waiting for a potential ambush. Despite the small comfort fresh air provided him, he couldn't help but doubt the ease with which they got outside without anyone noticing.

    “Sir Reinier will take half of the group and travel on foot. Worry not, I doubt your identity is currently under surveillance. But expect your names to be blacklisted from Exultius once we make it into the forest. As for the reason for this split, I will take the other half and drive the carriage into the capital’s center road. Meanwhile, Sir Reinier and his comrades will coordinate us toward the safest route where the guards are not inspecting every vehicle. And if we end up landing ourselves in accidental trouble...”

    Unwilling to remain before the unguarded carriage any longer, Otis waved his arm towards the Aerouant. "I will join this one in accompanying Sir Reiner" he started, his attention directed now towards the princess. "Unlike him, I have not been in this part of the country in over a decade but I desperately wish to return to the wilds."

    Interaction(s): Arkangel Arkangel voided voided ATurei ATurei Monday Monday
     
    Anthy Casimir Grey
    Prince of Tarnished Silver
    Falhades, Exultius
    “En, I’ll gladly go wherever, but I think a something like me is practically built for skulking terrain. The forest is where I’m in my element — besides, I’m super-sneaky. These are the beans of a killer after all!”

    Anthy does a little balance on one foot so he can lift the other into the air and wiggle his toes. His paw pads are, indeed, already lined with dirt from the previous trek, and make nary a sound when he sets his foot back down.

    “Unless anyone objects — speak now, or forever hold your peace — I think I’d like to go recon, too. Got enough space for one more stray, brother?” He gleefully waves at Reiner.
     
    Marrok Escrimeur
    Foolish Freedom Fighter
    Capital Falhades, Exultiust


    It would almost be picturesque to be surrounded by the great outdoors with the moon's spotlight almost matching the manmade beauty but alas simplicity was always a forgone conclusion, Afterall the 's' in noble stands for simple and the 'c' stands for staffed carriage. Marrok was panicking he had enough self-awareness to acknowledge that still didn't stop the cold sweat and the twitching of his fingers expressing himself beyond muted compliancy to not chance committing a taboo or something.

    Still Marrok already broke one promise already even more of a reason as long as he upholds the royal promise that's all he needs, unravelling and moving the sword on his back to its proper side sheath as the need for subtlety was expired, only kept from paranoid glances at the tree line by the assurance of just needing to follow orders and having to worry about nothing else, so with little thought followed the lead of his peers with a raising of a hand after them and miming proper manners with big words. "I want to go too, your Highness. I've got experience in the art of guardmanship and I've got a sword."

    Intending to dispel being remarked as a kid earlier, Marrok refusing to believe that he was the youngest out of all these people intending to prove that and his worth in one move mainly based on how he remembered guard duty. Plus, it sounded better than simply staying put in the carriage and waiting on others in solemn dread with no control over nothing, better to relish in the comfort of following orders and recovered ego in the late evening.





    Interactions: Arkangel Arkangel


     
    Enyo Klymene
    Aureate Visionary
    Falhades, Exultius | Paymonia

    She looked expectantly toward Anaias, eagerly awaiting a response from the girl for a little too long until it dawned upon her that she wasn't going to get one. While her social experience was fairly limited, it didn't take a mastermind to see that she was really obviously pretending to have not noticed her. Admittedly, it kind of stung to be ignored in such an obvious way, her face fell into a frown in response before her eyes spotted her kindred Aerouant approaching her.

    Her expression fell even further as she watched her use the handkerchief and promptly throw it away like trash. Poor Aristaios! He was just trying to be polite, though maybe she shouldn't make assumptions about Anaias' social decorum. Still, it stung to see such... Disregard. As they fell into a closer group as Reymond began to lead them down the tunnel, she'd offer him a gentle - if a bit awkward - pat on the shoulder for reassurance. Afterwards falling into silence as they traveled down the tunnels, boots clacking against the stone as they all walked. Tensions till hung over them, if subdued due to the urgency and tact required to successfully get to the princess that had summoned them all.

    As they moved, she found herself sticking closer to her perceived kin; Aristaios and Anaias, even despite the rather awkward going-ons of the outside, safety in the vaguely familiar was preferred to the uncertainy of everything else that surrounded her at every moment during this trip. Thankfully, she was able to avoid most of the obstacles along the path, and (mostly) unharmed by any she was unable to fully avoid. Her movement had a certain level of grace to it as she went through, even with the distractions from the activities above them slowly rising, a distinct air of excitement came about her as she realized the magnitude of that which went on above them. Similarly, she couldn't help but consider the rather obvious prior relationship between Reymond here and the other - Sword Saint? But now was no time for her to inquire regarding that.

    Soon enough, they would be in the presence of the Princess, whom Enyo immediately recognized before there was even an introduction given by her. While she recognized it wasn't the time for a full introduction, she still saw fit to give a quick bow towards Solara, if nothing else, to show her respect for the Princess. Aside from that, she'd remain silent, her negative expression from earlier disappearing as she offered a nod of acknowledgment towards the Princess and proceeded to the table.

    Another nod of acknowledgment as she spoke of the journey ahead being strenuous, followed by a smile. Then the Fuchsia Aerouants eyes were brought down to the map, where they'd have the journey ahead outlined for them. A peculiar sensation of butterflies, anxiety, and excitement, began to form as a chance to truly make an impact on the world was placed before her and those around her. Hopefully some shared her excitement in the matter, or her awe as the "Stargaze" was revealed to them, a truly fascinating melding of machine and magic! If only this sort of thing was available to the rest of the world to use, the drastically cut down communication would doubtlessly provide much aid to commoner and noble alike.

    Speaking of Commoner, she'd find herself somewhat surprised by the Bestiard stepping forward to ask a question first among the group. Eagerness was a trait to be appreciated, though, so she opted to say nothing and instead watch as he became the first among their group to become linked to the strange device. Though, just as quickly her attention would be brought over to that somewhat fascinating Nephilim from earlier, who was evidently another one of the Prince's direct acquaintances, a distinct frown forming as he spoke of wondering where the Prince was. Further worsened by the clear anguish from Solara in speaking on the news, she could only imagine just how awful it must've been to witness her own brother be executed for something that was simply untrue. Maybe they'd be able to get at least some closure on the matter, through this soon-to-be-had undertaking.

    Rather than dwelling on that, though, the young Noble quickly found her attention brought to the Bestiard and some of her other fellows present, in whom she found mild amusement with the antics. It was quite endearing to see them partaking in casual socializing, even in the gloomy interior of the room. Though, once more, that was soon cut short by the re-emergence of Reymond, and the bitter-sweet conversation that followed. There really was no room for her to interject with her own words, but she was at least able to offer a farewell bow to Idalia as the woman left. There was much for her to think about from this relatively brief interlude underneath the Capital, the Nephilim evidently intimately familiar with the Prince such as she was, her kindred Aerouant, and all the other bright and unfamiliar faces. But unfortunately, there wasn't enough time for her to address even a fraction of that before it was time for them to depart.

    As they began their exit from the castle - a remarkably easier process than their entrance - Enyo found herself drawn to the raw opulence of the castle, even with her own relatively blessed upbringing, a single room made the entirety of what she had known look impoverished, it was kind of impressive, really. But she had no time to dwell on it more than that, as they came upon the unfortunately empty cart. A frown formed as she was informed that this very much was not the plan. As the likely situation was laid out, her thoughts raced with potential courses of action; should it truly be required, she was prepared to take on her alternate form, but as Solara expressed, such a situation was hopefully going to be avoided through their actions.

    Still, as it was asked who would want to accompany Reinier in the task of coordinating the escape of the others. Her mouth moved before her brain fully caught up with her, especially since Aristaios was also volunteering. "While I may not have much in the lines of practical experience, I believe I'll be able to fend for myself and provide similar assistance in coordinating the rest of you! Plus, uh... If it comes down to it, I'd likely be able to intervene with some degree of swiftness - and impact - before the rest of us will be able to, except maybe excluding Aristaios! Though I understand if it'd be preferable to keep one of us here with the carriage, as well." While she may have been a little flustered as she spoke, somewhat eager to provide some use of herself as well, she maintained a generally confident tone.

    She'd not really gotten her chance to introduce herself to the other half of the group yet, either, but, those among that half that were participatinging would get their chance to talk to her all they wanted after they set off on foot. Her attention shifted over to Reinier, offering a bow. "If nothing else, I've got the stamina for the trip. Of which I think we'll need plenty of if we're to pursue this all on foot and still be in fighting shape."

    Taking a few steps over in his direction, she'd offer a slight wave to the others who were volunteering as well, trying to endear herself at least a little bit as she was almost certainly one of the greenest warriors among the bunch. Still, something was to be said for her heritage's natural inclination to be effective warriors. Either way, she was determined to put herself to use here, no matter which role she would ultimately end up being assigned to.




    @/everyone Arkangel Arkangel Khocolatte Khocolatte
     
    SHUFEN LIANG
    Hurricane Maverick
    Midaheim Forest


    Feeling the poke, Shufen stared at Otis’ finger in a confused manner. “To... Stopping the Godslayer?” What should have been enthusiastic became a confused statement as she saw Otis pull his finger away. Was this his way of making friends? Poking them? Perhaps this paranoid fueled vampire wasn’t that bad after all. After a few more pokes, she simply nodded. Yep, this is how Mister Vampire makes friends. Looking back up at him, she flashed him a grin. Perhaps she was reading into this a little too much, but maybe Otis warmed up to her. Or at least began to

    Before she could say anything else, the other Azelthyrian spoke up to introduce herself. The talk of trust got Shufen wondering. For now, she felt she could trust her current party of people. Like the Draculus said, if one were to betray them, they would do so now. Her gaze then glanced down to her gloved hand, the hand that showed the mark of a Chaos Root. The hand that she cannot bear seeing without her thoughts running rampant. What did Otis say? For all you know I could be waiting for you to sleep so I can drain the blood from your body. Hm. She turned her hand so she could see her palm. He had a point. It was unknown to Shufen if the man had a chaos root or not, but if one were to betray them, and had no means of doing so right here and now, then the only way they’d do it if everyone had their guard down.

    Maybe the Draculus was planting seeds of paranoia into her head. Surely everyone here wasn’t bad. Sure, three people may have not conversed much during the entire Stargazer ordeal, but that doesn't mean they were silently plotting anything, right? With a sigh, she adjusted her newsboy cap, patting her head once to make sure her short horns were hidden, before following the Princess out.


    ⧰⧰⧰​


    The walk out of the castle was suffocating to say the least. Thankfully, the ornaments and paintings were a much-needed distraction. Shufen was awestruck as she took in the details of the ornaments. Knock offs? Yes, you could find them being sold in MuKa-City, fooling the occasional passerby, but one look at these were clear enough to Shufen that they were the real deal. Then there were the paintings. Absent-mindedly, Shufen took a few steps towards one of them, looking up. Not only did she admire the content of the painting, the amount of effort and skill to produce a piece such as this had to be grand. The brush strokes had to be precise lest the painter incurs the wrath of the commissioner. It was at this point she realized she strayed from the by a few steps. With haste, she caught up with the group.

    The fresh, cool hair immediately hit her face as they left the confines of the castle. Truth be told, despite wishing to hold these riches and hang them around herself, Shufen felt the air of royalty very stuffy. There was some sort of pleasure to act a certain way and not appear like an idiotic buffoon. The blonde Azelthyrian looked over at the very woman who asked her to leave the walls of her own house. The pressure was still there to appear a certain way, to act a certain way. But not as much out here.

    In the midst of her wandering thoughts, she pulls out one of her daggers, immediately flipping it in the air. She caught it by the flat side of the blade, letting the momentum briefly let her hand dip. Following the momentum, she flipped the dagger again, this time catching it with the hilt, landing in her palm—carefully and skillfully—as she wrapped her fingers around briefly. Shufen clearly had some experience with daggers, whether that be in regards to combat or mere entertainment. The Azelthyrian continued flipping it and catching it, ignoring any glint of moonlight that bounced into her yellow gaze.

    Then there was the deserted carriage. The sight followed by Solara’s words briefly stopped her flipping, but after a few seconds, it resumed. Travelling and masquerading as merchants didn’t bother her. She came from MuKa-City, the heart of trade. Stuff like this was commonplace. Her eyes darted as she looked for the liaison, naivety speaking into her head as she expected the missing soldier to pop out from the greenery upon seeing Reinier and Solara. Perhaps he too expected Solara to be reported missing, and hid to decrease the chances of being caught, but that was not the case. Shufen’s gaze then fell on Reiner as the choice to part with one redhead to follow another was brought upon the group.

    To Shufen, it just felt like it was an option to choose between which older sibling you wanted to follow at the marketplace; the cooler one, or the stricter one. Except the cooler one also made Shufen slightly nervous, and they weren’t going to any marketplace. She weighed her options. Sticking with Reinier meant that there was safety in stealth and potentially dealing with threats before they run into Solara and whoever sticks with her. Shufen then looked over at the princess. On the other hand, sticking with the Princess meant she could have a hand in protecting her. Not to mention, she was dressed like a merchant and came from a merchant town, so she could pretend to be the merchant taking them there?

    Taking other factors into consideration, Shufen stopped flipping her dagger, holding it via the hilt as she took note of the forest she found herself in. She had no experience navigating this forest in multiple contexts. Running off for the sake of impressing the Princess was not the best idea, lest she injures herself or gets lost.

    While she pondered further, a few of her partners seemed to have made a decision on who to go with. Seems like the pink-haired Aeroant, Anthy-Cat, Marrok, Otis and Aristaois preferred to tag along with the Sword Saint, leaving Iana, Aetheros and herself still deciding. With a hum, she sheathed her dagger as she spoke up.

    “Hmm... we already have a sizable group going with Reinier. Like Mister va— Otis, I don’t know this place either, so I think it’s best for me to stick with people who do.” Pointing over to Iana and Aetheros each, Shufen took a step towards the cart. “I think I’ll stick with Quiet Redhead, and Bear Lover here. I think it’s better if we don’t have everyone with Reinier and some with the Princess too.”

    Interactions: Arkangel Arkangel (Solara) / NUSKI NUSKI (Otis)

    Audience: @/everyone

     
    Last edited:
    Aetheros Virtus
    Brilliant Sol
    Midaheim Forest - Falhades

    Though he’d taken to sashay himself towards the rearest echelons of their relocating ensemble, he’d taken the liberty to swipe a hitherto undisturbed bottle of water from one of the room’s wall-side tables- downing it with with the unhinged ferocity of a fine-wine appreciateur- before adjoining the rest of the rung with sated thirst, but a mind unrelieved. A tragic case of mistaken identity, with eyes that perceived the world but a mind beyond, he’d thought the target of the only source of his projected disdain had been the gateway towards the pits which drunken stupor alleviates, but how terribly wrong he’d been.

    As he carried himself with dignity along their surprisingly unhurried departure from the Imperial Fortress, the bitter nothingness of water complicated the shallow hole which the Crown Prince’s departure had engraved upon him. With the star’s own eyes, he analysed the artistry of the finest paintings held within the Empire, but within he could not believe how much a single life had held dominion over him; him, destined Sun, praised more than anyone, now found himself shook from the rightful path. Vengeful fingers converged to fist, as his palm then drenched beneath shadow’s embrace, found itself placed before his golden gaze. With raised fist then placed before his eyes, stood behind the back of another stranger yet, walking towards destined carriage, he envisioned the Prince held within.

    Smothered of his life as his light had been of his palm, he gained a deeper understanding; as he parted his fingers in utmost slight, he saw the subdued hush of light reached within, and held on to his memory for many hallways since. And when at last they’d settled for the carriage, none of regality but of supremest ordinarity, he silently raised his foot against the support and climbed thus onboard the back, filled with goods no doubt pretend, barely enough room for any man, now filled to brim with colourful cast far richer than any fabric sold in Autumn markets.

    He turned his head in casual observance, noting the proximity he himself held towards the energetic lass bearing the remarks of those of the Trader’s Port. Though his gaze carried his mind beyond her, and outward towards the starry skies and the looming dawn which they precede; beauty beyond compare, magnificence of no lesser equal to the glowing brilliance of blinding sun. He raised his leg atop his other, leaned against the backrest, and looked at the scenery for as long as their travels could afford him.

    His mind carried him to many places, most of which he had seldom contemplated, and much of which he ill-wished to think again. Today’s opportunity to take the first step towards inevitable ascension instead felt like a walk towards the dark, and the foreboding which midnight consists. He knew well that he had always preferred the day, the dawn more so than any other time, but he’d been met with the unfortunate truth that without the Sun, all is dark. Today, he’d learned that the Sun must shine on its own, for without it, all else will be smothered in the end.

    Absorbed in his own world, no sense of danger possible to penetrate his aloofness now or before- yet he felt noticeably different to when he spared no effort to hold his own amidst the world, as he had done during the commencement of their congregation. Striking calm enshrouded him, and even when the news of their possibly mortal danger assailed him, worry eluded him. He was silent, all-throughout, yet affected by the news of the Prince, yet not in the way that the ordinary would confront grief- incorporeal, in the vaguest sense though truest all the same.

    Though something compelled him thence towards utterance, perhaps the insult, perhaps the deepest recesses of his innate mischievousness cried out for snark, and who was the Sun not to abide; “Quiet? I could speak your ears to falling off, like another I just so happened to know- just today in fact,” he said in the same regal tonation as he’d carried during the night’s first commencement, and as he did, he tilted his head towards Shufen’s direction, his golden look deemed gifted through side-eyed glance. Hushed smirk dominating a hitherto blank face; in truth, the distraction was just what he had needed- thoughts of truly divine obligations weighed heaviest during moments of loss.

    “Should you be so street-bred as to not know of what I said, then I will clarify that I was speaking of you,” he then added with ecclesiastic glib, placing his hand- thence contained to rest across the carriage side- across her shoulder.

    As swiftly as it had come, it departed again, as he then turned his gaze towards the rear, with whom he shared the other seat, positioned at the back as he had been, and looked towards the wilderness behind them. His hand, then flat against the carriage seat, lost its intensity: the fist from the Fortress hallway now a fleeting memory, accompanied by the sparrows’ cry at the carriage’s rattling.

    It should be clear to all that his choice had been to remain where he'd been, seated upon the carriage.

    Interaction: voided voided (Shufen)
    Audience: @ Everyone
     
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    Iana Ilmarinen
    Wistful Wanderer
    Midaheim Forest


    Light steps carried Iana through the castle as she looked with slight interest upon its interior. Paintings and artworks did not provoke her curiosity as much as the supposed story behind them: who gathered them there, who made them. Their artists now lost and their voices a faint echo only in this dark record of a bygone past. She found them stifling and dead just like the place they resided: an evil ruin of what was once a beautiful place. But there was no beauty in stagnation, not even comfort. She wished that she had been walking among trees, where life moves at an unceasing speed and things live ever on. How someone could make home a large citadel of stones and bricks, then pile wealth within to keep their feet from wandering, she could not comprehend. The world's beauty is in the journey to get there, in aimless paths and joyous chances. But a human’s life is short, she supposed, and for that, they wish to see all there is without the great pain to get to it, through other eyes from their comfort. But that explanation fell short, for the very founder of this place was once a great king who conquered the world, and now leading Iana was his daughter who was to forgo her comfort in risk for a cause. Humans surely are mysterious creatures.

    Their emergence from the castle and present dilemma pulled her out of reflection. Their first challenge. She would want nothing more than to accompany the princess. But Heshira would attract too much attention to Solara, who was in more need of discretion to be safe on her chosen route.

    She told them as much, “as much as I would like to guard the princess, bringing Heshira along with the carriage is not the best idea. But the wilderness is my element, and Heshira could sniff out even the most well-concealed stalkers.”

    Interaction: everyone

     
    Solara Evernight
    Scorching Inflorescence
    Falhades, Exultius | Paymonia
    "The greater the number of coordinators, the more efficient this procedure will become. Thank you for your determination." Solara announced for all to hear, leaving no time for little chatter. She understood the importance of introductions and building the bond that would later serve a great purpose in their mission, but now was not the time - and Solara began to lose the patience she once had. Still, she preserved her serene visage, like how her brother had taught her. No matter how dire the situation became, she was prepared to not lose her nature. Unlike her previous naive self...

    "Those who will travel with Sir Reinier will traverse the capital and cooperate. Those who are traveling with me will remain in the carriage and remain clandestine until your services are necessary. Remember - we must prioritize avoiding conflict no matter the cost. Even if the costs are the lives of the soldiers who are simply following the orders of their superiors. This operation will determine the peace between Exultius and its adversaries. A gamble that I was willing to take before I wrote those letters... I put my trust in you all."

    Out of habit that she desired to relinquish with time, Solara instinctively raised her left hand and gestured the royal decree, waving her hand across the air horizontally, signifying the Exultius royal command. Some would know of the gesture, and some would be left clueless. It mattered not, as long as Reinier understood what it meant. As each second was precious, Reinier left no room for questions and commanded those who volunteered to follow his steps, where they would disappear into the darkness of the road where the carriage was situated to follow. In no less than half a minute, with Solara stood the rest who decided to remain.

    The princess grumbled with her teeth biting on her thumbnail, "I was a fool to tempt fortune," Solara muttered to herself, with no specific target of conversation in mind. Thoughts of trouble invaded her mind and she was quick to frown. She was not worried, but rather discontent about how the situation has already called for an alternative plan. An individual came into mind as she pondered who it could've been that alerted the authorities. "Ingreus... Your loyalty to the Godslayer is honorable. But the shackles of your oath will jeopardize the lives of millions across this realm. If only you would awake from that delusion you call integrity..."

    Following her words and leaving no room for questions, the redhead swiftly opened the carriage entrance and roared, "This carriage contains supplies that will be advantageous on our trip. From edible materials to trade items, it is our duty to not only protect my identity but also the contents that are wrapped within those crates. Fortunately, they are not illegal items that cannot be exported from Falhades. If this carriage were to be searched by the common guard, remain calm and play along the scene. What's important is that we do not prompt the suspicion of an imperial officer. Is that clear?"

    The carriage space was vast enough for everyone to comfortably find space, especially considering that it was built for more than a dozen occupants. Although the exterior defense was poor and the materials used to build the carriage were lacking and old to disguise itself as a middle-class merchant's portable home, the vehicle itself was surprisingly sturdy.

    In the front of the stagecoach were two veiled horses awaiting a coachman. Knowing that it would be unideal for her to occupy that place, she turned to the blonde girl for a favor before entering the carriage, "Your name is Shufen, from what I remember. Is that right? I'll need you to direct the carriage in my stead. I'd like for Sir Aetheros and the others to remain in the back for a different duty I have in mind."

    Interaction: Khocolatte Khocolatte (Reinier), voided voided (Shufen), Malphaestus Malphaestus (Aetheros)
    Audience: Monday Monday WinterFestivity WinterFestivity lunar_moth lunar_moth ATurei ATurei NUSKI NUSKI accursedjobber accursedjobber SleepySheepiez SleepySheepiez
     
    Aetheros Virtus
    Brilliant Sol
    Midaheim Forest - Falhades

    What had been sensations of eternities in passing, had been but mere moments spanning; from the moment where he’d gone aboard the disreputable wagon, it became evident that he had drifted far and wider than he’d ever considered within his own mind, having traveled a journey’s time in mere moments. It was only when he’d finished speaking his retort to the overly energetic lass, that he’d come to realize that the carriage had never even begun to roll it’s wheels or trot it’s horses a singular length. A realization which dawned upon him, mostly, when he’d sought the wilderness in his sights, but confused it with the occasional forestry of the Castle courtyard.

    His own delusionality retained the smirk he’d instinctively deigned after his comedic infraction with the Trader’s Porter, a quicksome step made in his seated rest to relieve him of the last vestiges of his distractions, before he took to resettle his sitting posture for as regal a comfort as can be expected from dusty carriage seats. And though he’d hear the Princess’ monologue all-throughout, it mattered gravely little to him.

    Only when she first addressed his most esteemed self was there even a need to be reticent of her words, and even then there was far too little to respond to; disappointing him, he was hungry to hear his own vocal cords after such an unfortunate spell of downtroddenness.

    “ ‘Tis here I’ll be then, highness,” he responded- with characteristic nonchalance, though hardly dismissively. Having taken his seat far ahead of the vast majority of them, he felt more than compelled to remain comfortably sitting for as long as the journey could entail. If danger truly did befall them, he could settle it, and were dangers of differing nature to emerge- needless to say, he could solve those as well.

    He was special, after all.

    Interaction: Arkangel Arkangel (Solara)
    Audience: @ Carriage Group.
     
    SHUFEN LIANG
    Hurricane Maverick
    Midaheim Forest

    The Azelthyrian merely blinked over at the man she dubbed as ‘Quiet Redhead’. She silently listened to his mischievous—yet regal—words. There was a hint of bitterness as Aetheros attempted to besmirch whatever reputation Shufen had by calling her street-bred. The woman looked down at herself, did she really look like she was off the streets? Absentmindedly, she brought her hand up to her hat, pressing down on it as she blankly stared at the ground. Merchant, she can accept, but street-bred? She disagrees. Perhaps she was taking Aetheros’ words a bit too literally. After all, Shufen thought he meant something akin to a wandering vagrant.

    As socially inept as she was, she was not one to respond to snide comments. Causing issues on purpose was the last thing she wanted to do. Hand still on her hat, she looked up at the man, flashing him a toothy grin. “By all means, feel free to talk my ear off. I love talking to people. Speaking of, you said you talked someone else’s ear off, yeah? How did that go?” She replied in a rough and bubbly cadence, contrasting his regal intonation. A finger could be seen tapping down against the top of her hat, tapping directly against the tip of one of her hidden horns.

    Why was she hiding her horns? Surely other Azelthyrian already figured out who she was. She eyed Iana—specifically Iana’s horns—observing how her hair draped over the dark horns. Seems like Iana was the only other Azelthyrian other than her. She then turned to face the rest of the group that was either standing near Reinier. Otis was a Draculus, Anthy was a Bestiard and two were obviously Aerouants. Her gaze then fell on Marrok. To her knowledge, he was Human. But Nephilims looked like Humans too, right? She looked back over at Aetheros, who was now peering out towards the Midaheim wilderness. Could either Aetheros or Marrok be unmasked Nephilims?

    Nah, surely not!

    Solara’s mumbled monologue quickly caught Shufen’s attention. Tempting fortune? Was the princess upset over the majority tagging along with Reinier? She paid no mind to the latter half of the sentence, she had no clue who Ingreus was. However, the princess was swift enough with her actions and words to ward off questions. Fortunately for Solara, Shufen found something to be distracted by. The woman walked towards the cart, peering into the back where the luggage was located. With a hum, she looked up at the Princess

    “I assume this is technically all for us, yeah? Or are we actually dropping this off for someone?” She asked Solara, before looking at the other group. “You sure it’ll be okay with just uh...” What was his name? Did he even introduce himself? Regardless, she pointed at him and then at herself as she repeated her second question properly. “You sure it’s okay with just us two? Do you want me to kidnap someone from Reinier’s group?” Then again, maybe a smaller group in the carriage is fine. If need be, Shufen could lie about the two Humans to whatever guard she talks to. After all, she is from the city of commerce after all.

    Now, Solara’s attention was on Shufen. She would be lying if she said she wasn’t nervous. “Y-Yes ma’am!” that was blurted out once Solara made sure she said Shufen’s name properly. Stiff as ever, eh? Fortunately, she felt her shoulders loosen up as Solara mentioned Aetheros’ name. Definitely not a name she’s heard of before. Can she even pronounce that? Surely she can. Then again, she’s from a different place. Names from there probably aren’t commonplace here. She gave Solara a peace sign of sorts as she trotted over to where the coachman would sit. “I can direct the carriage! Will I be the one talking to any guards that stop us? Or will you be doing that? I’m just asking! I don’t mind being the one who talks if you wanna be stealthy!”

    Regardless, it seems that Reinier beat Solara in technically answering Shufen. Placing a hand on her chin, she nodded along to his words. It was safe to assume that whatever she wanted Aetheros to do, had to do with keeping Solara’s existence a secret? She looked over at the princess with a hum. Should she give the princess her hat? Would that help? But she also wants to hide her horns? Ah, what to do, what to do! Well for now, it would be best to focus on getting through safely and without any issue. Giving a quick thank you to Reinier for the explanation, she looked back at the Princess

    “Ah, your highness! What are your thoughts on giving me the permit? That is if it doesn't have your name on it. I promise I ain’t gonna lose it or break it.” She then held her arms up, crossing it to make an X with her arms. “If you don’t trust me with it, that’s fine too! We just met after all, ehe.”

    Interactions: Arkangel Arkangel (Solara) / Malphaestus Malphaestus (Aetheros) / Khocolatte Khocolatte (Reinier)

    Audience: @/everyone

     
    Aristaios Solon
    Relentless Sojourner
    Falhades, Exultius | Paymonia

    Thankfully, several others were quick to volunteer, starting with Otis. Given his obvious mistrust of everyone he encountered, it was reasonable to assume he was used to living alone, in some remote location, and would feel more at ease in familiar territory. Anthy volunteered next with his trademark enthusiasm, his delightfully odd mannerisms on full display. Aristaios had not yet had the privilege of hearing digits referred to as "beans"- and alongside such an incongruous word as "killer", no less. He was amazed by the Beastiard's nonchalance. While he had no doubts as to the suitability of his padded paws for a mission of stealth, he was slightly less confident in his vocal organs- or, rather, in the impulses that governed them. Then again, he was a hunter. The young human raised his hand, offering his experience of guard duty and his sword for the task.

    Enyo also decided to join them. It seemed these young ones were all eager to prove themselves. At first it was a comfort not to be parted from the one party member with whom he had made an instant connection, but he soon had cause for alarm. To "intervene" with "swiftness and impact"... Good gracious! He certainly hoped it wouldn't come to that. Dragons, as a general rule, were not exactly subtle. Only as an absolute last resort, when all hope of secrecy was lost, would he advocate shifting in this circumstance. Furthermore, she seemed to vastly overestimate his ability. Though their kind did have a reputation for being capable warriors, his own dragon form, albeit superior to his humanoid form in size, strength, and toughness, was relatively unimpressive. Admittedly, he had used it to make a quick getaway far more often than he'd used it to fight.

    A natural aversion to violence had not been enough to spare him his fair share of violent encounters, however. There were always those who would not see reason, from the usual complement of thugs and bandits on the road, to overzealous Aeslengard soldiers, to those seeking a bounty on his horns, to local authorities who thought him a political agitator or else wanted a convenient scapegoat. He had even leant his bow, here and there, to a cause he deemed worthy. His marksmanship served him well, but winning an archery contest was an entirely different experience from putting a shaft through a man's eye socket. When a violent confrontation became likely, his contingencies were, in order of priority: run away, fly away, hide, negotiate, issue fair warnings, and, last of all, attack. If killing became necessary, it ought to be done quickly, cleanly, and as painlessly as possible- hence his preference for bow and arrow over fang and claw.

    He opened his mouth to correct Enyo's misconception of him, lest it lead the others, especially Sir Reiner, to expect more of him than he could deliver, but the conversation moved ahead too quickly.

    Shufen opted to stay with the carriage, and evidently Virtue had decided the same. Iana joined their party on account of her companion beast. As soon as these arrangements were settled, Sir Reiner launched into an explanation of their mission, garnering Aristaios' full attention. As the East Gate was least frequented, the carriage would exit that way. The ordinary guards posed minimal risk, but the Imperial guards, marked by the red and silver stripe on their badges, ought to be avoided. Though checking the other gates would take priority, they would have no more than fifteen minutes to make their escape before the guard converged on the East Gate. As he instructed them on what to do if they were questioned, Aristaios swallowed and clutched the strap of his knapsack. There was no good reason for an Aerouant without a death wish to be in Falhades. Just standing there was enough to keep him constantly on edge. What could he do? Hide his scales and pretend to be an Azelthyrian? Pretend he was profoundly lost? Pretend he couldn't speak?

    No sooner had he finished than Princess Solara issued her final instructions, her tone indicating there was no more time to waste. They were to avoid conflict at all costs, even if that cost be the lives of ordinary soldiers. Aristaios nodded solemnly. He had expected this. His own reluctance to kill was, in part, a weakness. The Sage would even advocate waging war if it were necessary to bring about a peaceful world, so he would do his part, even if he must take actions he found distasteful. He would not betray her trust out of squeamishness. At the end of her speech, the Princess raised her left hand and slashed it across the air. Though he did not recognize the gesture, it had an air of command. Instinctively, he stood up a little straighter.

    After that, the group of coordinators went on ahead, following the Sword Saint. Tugging his hood forward, Aristaios fell in beside their leader. "Sir Reiner... I do hope it won't come to this, but if we are discovered, we can't allow an alarm to be raised. I can... take care of the problem quickly and quietly, without being seen. If you have need of my bow, just say the word." Though he was far from eager to use it in this way, his archery was the one skill he possessed in which he was truly confident, and he couldn't deny that it was ideal for such a task. Since Sir Reiner hadn't discouraged Enyo's use of her dragon form, as he had hoped, he thought he ought to at least present an alternative. If Enyo happened to be within earshot, it would spare both of them the risk of being rude. In this venture, if they were to kill at all, they would need to kill swiftly and silently, without warning. If that moment came, he would not, must not, hesitate.

    Now, then... to find a vantage point. Nearby stood what looked like an upper-class dwelling, several stories tall, with the second story jutting out over the street, supported by pillars, and a balcony further up. After taking a moment to plan his route, Aristaios laid his pack down at the base of one of the pillars, his walking stick still strapped to it, and, taking only his bow and quiver, shimmied up the pillar and climbed up onto the roof with swift, nimble movements. Between the ornamentation at the top of the pillar, the window sills, the balcony, and the timbers criss-crossing the exterior, he had plenty of hand and foot holds. Coming up one side of the sloped roof, he kept in the shadow of the chimney and peered around it, his keen eyes taking in the city spread out before him in the moonlight. A vast array of rooftops and chimneys stood upright like a range of mountains, the network of streets like sharp valleys carved by rivers of cobblestone. In particular, he tried to trace the line of the street the carriage was to follow.

    "Sir Reiner," he called, over his shoulder, in a whisper. "What shall I look for?"

    Interactions: Khocolatte Khocolatte
    Audience: NUSKI NUSKI lunar_moth lunar_moth accursedjobber accursedjobber WinterFestivity WinterFestivity ATurei ATurei

     
    Iana Ilmarinen
    Wistful Wanderer
    Falhades, Exultius | Paymonia


    Inana nodded along as Reiner briefed their course of action. They trod close to danger this time, fate and luck might yet decide whether their escape may end smoothly or in bloodshed. Upon Iana’s beloved Princess’s permit for the latter outcome, she frowned. She spoke true, of course. The cause they fight for was great, perhaps worth many lives of the common people. And yet for how fascinated ever she was by lofty causes, in her heart of hearts, Iana had a disposition for simplicity of thoughts and at-hand sentiments. And the idea of laying down innocent lives, even for her beloved Princess, did not sit well.

    She did not voice her objection, but internally she could not resolve to bloody her hands. A weakness it was, undeniably. Perhaps the captious ones among her new comrades would even take this weakness for an act of treason. If so then that Otis had been right to be distrustful. She would not kill, needlessly or not, unless her foes are truly wicked, and even then she would first resort to injure or detain, not murder.

    She watched as Aristators gained on a vantage point, a perfect station for him, an archer just like Iana. But more than just arrow-armed watchful eyes upon high towers, Iana directly stalks her prey. Taking outstretched timbers and barrels along the walls for branches and boughs, Iana leaped, then silently and cat-like disappeared in the dark. Moments later she was dashing eastward along rooftops, bright eyes peering in dark alleys flanking the main street, searching for any possible ambush or spies. After her every step down below, Heshira hugged the shadow as it moved, lurking like an unseen nightmare to scare away unwanted civilians from her path. But stealth was their priority.

    Khocolatte Khocolatte NUSKI NUSKI lunar_moth lunar_moth accursedjobber accursedjobber WinterFestivity WinterFestivity Monday Monday

     
    O T I S
    Ashen Sanguisuge
    Capital Falhades, Exultius
    As the two groups began to split, Otis offered one last glance in Shufen's direction before dragging his feet behind the newly formed group of coordinators. Despite her unfortunate need to dub him as something so simple as a 'vampire', he didn't find her completely unbearable. However, it is the nice ones you need to worry about, isn't it?

    A part of Otis was thankful that the number of people around him had shrunk; less to worry about when it came to betrayal. Ignoring the most obvious candidate, Otis' eyes rolled over to the two Aerouants who had also volunteered. Admittedly, they had escaped his watchful eye for most of the night but even so, he couldn't notice any immediate malcontent. One was taller than him, the other shorter, but they both seemed to possess an aura of formality that rubbed him the wrong way. The overly-trusting Azelthyrian calling herself Iana had joined them, his eyes lazily tracking her as she disappeared into the dark. After Reiner, the dark-haired human completed the group of coordinators. Looking him up and down, the Draculus didn't think much of him but then again, he didn't much of any human, royalty or not. He was young in appearance, at least no older than 25. It would be very unlikely he was a mastermind of some treasonous scheme but it wasn't an impossibility that he had been sent by someone else.

    No one escaped his suspicions but if he were to pick someone to be the least likely to be a spy, it would be the cat. His innocence radiated brightly from his general presence, too much so to be faked. The Bestiard was not only the first to submit to the magic presented by the princess but also seemed too eager to go along for the ride. It would take Otis a little more time to determine if he was trustworthy or not.

    I see you. All of you.

    Looking around him, it was odd to see such a group of people with such well-maintained composure; an attitude he hadn't seen since what he would call the 'Draculi Golden Age'. There was always something coming when you'd least expect it. Assassins disguised as travelling merchants, an ambush under the cover of night and fog, or even some foolish humans seeping into the forest for the boogeyman of Asura Forest. Too many possibilities to remain calm. He had to stay vigilant at all times. He knew how these people saw him but there was no such thing as overly cautious or extremely paranoid. Those words were saved for fools waiting for death and misfortune to devour them whole.

    It was his paranoia that had kept him alive thus far. Otis had no intention of dropping it for the sake of something so trivial as trust in people who he very well may die with in the following weeks.

    A faint frown tainted Otis' face as a familiar sense of fear and anxiety tickled the hairs on his body before his attention was forced to shift to the ashen-haired Aerouant on the rooftop. Presumably, the Azelthyrian was heading to a place of high vantage, giving them two lookouts. Otis had his bow as well, but three scouts seemed extremely unnecessary and inefficient for the task at hand.

    "I'll stick to the smaller streets then. I may see something that may be missed from a rooftop," Otis started, pulling further on his hood before he casually continued began heading toward the gate. "Hopefully the cave-dweller will see me before our friends guarding the Eastern Gate do." Otis offered a small wave to Reiner, uninterested in his response before sprinting away and slipping into the nearest alleyway.

    Interaction(s): Khocolatte Khocolatte Monday Monday WinterFestivity WinterFestivity ATurei ATurei lunar_moth lunar_moth accursedjobber accursedjobber
     
    Anthy Casimir Grey
    Prince of Tarnished Silver
    Capital Falhades, Exultius

    “Kekeke, time for a stealth mission~“

    Quick as— well, a cat, Anthy does not peruse so much as he prowls down the streets leading into town. His malnourished-looking friend has got the sidestreets covered; the other ones have already taken to the rooftops to hunt down snipers. That means it’s up to Anthy and the others to guard their caravan from any hidden threats lurking in plain sight, and above and below, he will.

    Skitter to the shadow of a tall building. Flatten yourself against it, even flatter, and try to stop your tail from swishing with the exhilaration. When nothing pops out at you screaming, you take one last shifty-eyed look around and scuttle to the next building, this time under a small overhang. Got it?

    Now, credit where credit is due. Anthy is, for all intents and purposes, very quiet as he does this. His claws have been retracted so as not to clack on the paved stones and his fleshy paw pads absorb most of the sound of his footsteps. It is a valiant effort, however, he is also blue and furry and has a very long tail that quivers with his excitement. Ah, the cursed life of a beastfolk: say goodbye to blending in with the crowd.

    “I think the coast is clear,” he stage whispers over his shoulder to anybody who might be listening.

    84B3EFED-9384-42D3-AA05-D8289DB0B689.gif
     
    Aetheros Virtus
    Brilliant Sol
    Midaheim Forest - Falhades

    Though dissatisfied by the rickety racket of a yet immobile wagon, already suffering the premature premonitions of looming back pains yet in his future- far too accustomed to walking aimlessly or enjoying the far more ostentatious seating arrangements of more vainglorious carriages-, he was at the very least satisfied with the Trade Porter’s enjoyable personality: reckoning the journey a chore provided it had been Otis he’d be accompanying. Crossing his legs through subconscious urge, he rested his refined hands regally atop his thighs, his noble robes doing well to drape his form beneath purple and white fabrics.

    Though, all the whilst, he took note of his playful retort and thus to how the eccentric’s energetic display loomed towards silence before fostering the courage to continue her ceaseless barrage of conditionless positivity; his slight grin, though never subsiding, was re-energised. As Shufen journeyed towards the front, Aetheros decided to unfinger one of his emerald rings, tossing it towards her as she’d taken her seat: “ ‘tis a friendship ring, let’s say- and future insurance, lest you consider me liable for causing your ears to rot.”

    He could not accurately surmise the reason as for why he felt well-adjusted to her personage, though all the same, he could already tell he would appreciate her personality. Unlike Otis, she felt unperturbed by his blood, as unique as a Nephilim's is to the world of mortals. Though there was little deeper meaning behind his gift, prone to displays of senseless extravagance as he was in his casual intermingling- not short of jewelry to casually discard in the immediate moment- any person who did not fight the urge to behead him for little reason beyond their own selfish perspectives of the world order was someone he could at the very least enjoy a carriage’s company with for a few moons.

    Though more sensible minds would have considered the logistics of their coming voyage, and the doubtless challenges which traversing the checkpoints of a hostile nation in moments such as these, Aetheros was instead focused upon answering Shufen’s immediate question- or rather, her misinterpretation of what he’d said: “like another I just happened to know, I said- like you, that is: plenty talkative you are, as well, you see,” he retorted glibly, yet it was more than obvious that he took a noticeably degree of enjoyment from their interaction, not so different from playing with companionship animals.

    Though perhaps it was not such a surprise, she exuded the energy of a well-trained Losserhound, though that particular breed of Lupus was an exclusivity to Heligheim. Moderately feline, though with the sociability and expertise of a shepherding dog. Precisely as one would expect of one of Aeslengard’s farming regions, though perhaps because of their likeness he could not see her as a regular human, that much was for certain.

    A reflection which allowed him a new opportunity to respond to whatever words were mildly pointed in his direction, keen to do so as he was naturally made to be; “I should be enough to contend with what challenges come our way, provided it remains reasonably impossible, as opposed to something far more severe.” A very intentional formulation, his expertise and unreasonable tendency towards being able to deal with most potentialities due to his superb destiny. All the same, he couldn’t defeat the Godkiller, provided his Imperial Highness, himself, were to, for whatever reason, block their path at one of the gates.

    He scoffed playfully, “though provided there is some degree of skill to all the others, I’m certain it would not need to come to such a confrontation; I’m no fool, and would ill wish to unleash my radiant magic upon the streets of the enemy’s own stronghold,” a nigh-obligatory clarification would then precede his coming verbal furtherance- after all he was no fool, and such should always be definitively presented lest others fall into their own illusions of animosity towards him- ; “and for our combined benefit, refer to me as Virtue in all public interactions, I have a family which I can ill-afford meeting as they please.”

    Turning to the Princess, he finished: “Though you received my name through the Prince’s diary- I assume, at least- it would be best to make it clear that I never told you my name myself. It was the Prince I had my friendship with.”

    “Not to say that we wouldn’t make fine companions over the passages of time, however.”

    Interaction: Arkangel Arkangel (Solara), voided voided (Shufen).
    Audience: @ Carriage Group.
     
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