Fantasy IC - Chapter 1A: "Blood On My Hands, Dirt On My Boots" (Kildra)

[King Ad Rock]

The following was posted as a collaboration between Orikanyo and yoikes in the previous IC

Orikanyo
as Eliza Quinn


yoikes
as Kum Liadej

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​

Location: The streets near the Coliseum, Iorn, Kildra


Date: Month 6, Day 15


Time: The eleventh hour of the morning (11:00 A.M.)

_____​

The woman stalled for a moment, what did this guy just... She practically said there was nothing special about this thing. Did he not hear? Is he just acting like a fool? "Listen bud I-" she was interrupted by the man's second batch of words.


This man was acting like a straight up fool over words he didn't fully hear right. And NOW he was trying to get a date with her? The nerve of this man! thinking he can just waltz in, act smart, not listen to the words she's saying AND then try and act all coy and cute to get dinner with her!


The little sneaky rat bastard, going to get what's coming to him. Right after she lords this one over him.


"You must think you're being cute eh? Well but yea didn't hear me it seems. I said the thing wasn't possessed, just a pot. If you want to be really particular I said, and I quote, I wouldn't tell you this one is possessed."the woman stands straight, her eyes narrowed and pointed, she would not suffer the words of two fools in one day. "Just whom do you think you are anyways, thinking your so hoity toity, offering to buy up all I have over a stupid pot that you misunderstood in the first place. Doesn't matter if you're some big wig or a simple fool trying to act smart you best get off that damn high horse of yours and listen to a woman's words correctly!"


Now she was straight scorning the man for taking a mistake too far, her hands at her hips and face in a frown, her very visage and tone reminded those near of their mother scorning them, provoking a few to flinch and turn away in hopes of not catching her ire.


"And who do you think you are anyways? Bothering a poor thing like me? You think I'm just some stupid girl who dug up some trash, tied them into a necklace and sell them as artifacts? You think I'd do that to people? Look at this talisman here." she rose one up in her hands, a sliver of steel, rusted and pitted like it had chipped off something hard. "I remember this one... From the spine of a long dead warrior, skeletal and decayed, he spoke from years in the past with a small craving on the wall. he did not die quickly but this was the weapon that did him in. He wanted to fight again, to see the world again. But alas his time was nigh, and I can't grant any life to a man long since dead. I've seen many people like him, using the last bits of their lives to carve or write their last words. Wishing to live that little bit longer."


Contrary to her earlier anger, people seemed to be crawling back for this tale, seemingly having forgotten about her scorning.


"As a merchant I can do nothing but this. I honor them by letting them fight, by allowing them to grant the warriors of TODAY their power! And I will not be chased away by men who don't know the meaning of such ways!" a well manicured finger pointed towards her taunter, an indignant grin gracing her face as she turned his prying into a weapon.


Kum stood and blinked as the red haired girl chew her in and out. Lecturing him about the pot and about her artifacts. She reminded him of her wife back home, but her wife is still twice prettier. Maybe he misheard and thus misunderstood something? He probably is, if not the girl in front of him wouldn't be so... Offended? Or maybe it's all a part of the girl's act to stop him from disturbing her business?


Kum was glad that he didn't bring Lon or any escorts with him, or he'll be embarrassed even more than this. The girl's scorning attracted people's attention, everyone loves a fight, and many stayed to listen to her dramatical story of a talisman's origin. He do still think those are a fake. Necklaces and bracelets with the word 'talisman' slapped into them and sold with sweet promises about powers that doesn't exist at the first place.


"Well, I am sorry if I misunderstood your words in anyway." He blushed, as he speak his words of apologize. Kum decided that it is best that he did not call out the girl in front of the growing crowd and all the attention directed at the two of them. "My invitation is still up. May I treat you for this misunderstanding?"


Eliza gave it a moment of thoughts before giving a sigh. "Sure, I guess I can go for something to eat. But if I find some angry wife trying to hunt me down I will not be merciful.". She warned the man before turning to pack up what little she had left over. She sold quite abit today, thanks to this man's attempt at meddling. So she guessed a small reward was in order, the reward being him to feel better about this of course.


Not like he was a business partner or something, but something about him screamed "I'm a merchant." to Eliza, so maybe she could make a contact here. So she should atleast give him a chance, a small one, to make amends.


She began to pack her things away, putting her box and stool back inside the wagon before looking to Petunia, her trusty and utterly stupid, or to smart for it's own good, mule. "Guard." she spoke the word as the mule responded with a blank eyed stare. "I'll be back soon okay? I'll get you a carrot on the way back." upon the word carrot the mule sprung to life, as much as a stone faced animal like that could.


Petunia stood next to the wagon, looking more or less uncaring about the world around it. In truth one would think the whole guard order was a joke until a rat came sniffling near the carriage, becoming a deep red mess upon the ground by the vigilant Mule's stomp.


"Better then a dog, now, where to?"


"You treated your mule like a guard dog." Kum raised his eyebrows, amused. He was thinking that it was some sort of joke until the mule stomped a rat and killed it in instant. "... Alright?"


"Where to? Well, personally I still want to explore the city. Sightseeing and maybe dropped by the tournament arena to check the fighting schedule. But if you are already hungry, then we can go straight to whatever restaurant cooks the best food in town." Kum grinned.


"Hmm.... I would like to eat soon, but the tournament is probably the best way to see the queen, when she does come into town mind." the woman gave the idea some thought, yes she wanted dinner, but the queen sounded like a much more interesting option. Or atleast a chance at seeing the queen.


"Come on then, we can get that dinner you promised afterwards."

 

[King Ad Rock]

The following was originally posted by King Ad Rock in the previous IC​

King Ad Rock

as Queen Suzane of Kildra and Chancellor Virin

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Location: Small villages outside of Iorn, Kildra

Date: Month 6, Day 15

Time: 12th hour of the morning (12 P.M.)

_____
​

As the sun shone brightly in the sky of Kildra, the horns of Iorn began, loudly and suddenly, to fill the air with a regal medley that had not been heard for some years. It had started with a single tower guard, on the outskirts of Iorn lands on the border with the capital. The lone watchman had been slightly dozing when the sight of several ornate caravans and enough horsemen to be considered a small army appeared in the distance causing him to jolt awake.


With only just a bit of panic and nervousness, the guard raced for the special horn that he had been given just days before for this specific moment. He pointed it towards the Northwest and gave it a mighty blow while trying his best to remember the melody that he was only recently taught. It was known as the “Royal Arrival Song”, just a few high and low notes played in a looping succession the moment the royal family was spotted to alert the people of the city and surrounding villages.


There were several carriages making their way over the horizon with an overly large one, probably containing the Queen, found in the middle of them all. The royal carriage was oversized and impressive, colored in different beautiful shades of reds and gold. Inside sat Queen Suzane herself, looking out her carriage window at the grassy open plains of Iorn, the tiresome look evident in her features.


Queen Suzane was considered an endless beauty by the people she ruled, even those who had no respect or want for her rule. She maintained her youthful, gorgeous appearance now late into her forties. Although, if one were graced with the chance to get up close and personal with the monarch, they would notice the beginning traces of laugh lines and crow’s feet. The wrinkles were late to the party, but still making their inevitable attendance. Her long and luxurious hair had preserved its natural goldenness, with not one hair turning to a shade of gray or white. She had intensely blue and piercing eyes that seemed to be able to look deep into any man’s soul on just one look, but now these eyes looked tired and bored as they gazed the serene setting as her head slightly jostled from the rocking of the carriage.


Despite being made of fine material, the dress she adorned was not anywhere near what one would describe as “regal”. It was a plain dark red with very few stitch patterns. This was a sign of her apparent modesty.

Virin
​

Sitting across from Suzane was her trusted right hand man and advisor over the years, Chancellor Virin. On the outside, Virin appeared to be an assuming man, but there was more to the man than meets the eye. Now in his sixties, his hair was kept long but was thinning and grey. Under his robes one could tell he still held a sturdy frame from his younger days. Suzane finally turned her attention from the scene outside of her window to the Chancellor and broke the long silence,


“Holy Azae, I have forgotten how much I detest that dreadful song.” Spat the Queen with a sneer. Virin gave a gleeful chortle from his seat.


“The one thing that Kildran nobles hold above all else is tradition.” Virin replied with a tone that hinted Suzane should know this by now.


“Its traditional shit is what it is. We will have to come up with something more appealing than this or I may never leave the castle walls again.” She could not hold her smile off anymore. Virin’s Chortle turned into a full blown guttural laugh.


“Villages up ahead your majesty!” The driver yelled from outside of the carriage. “The knights have gone up ahead to hold off and disperse the crowds!” The Queen pursed her lips and gave Virin a very specific look. The chancellor turned his head while opening a window behind and then called out to the driver,


“Make sure alert them that the Queen wishes them to be as gentle as possible with the com-“ Virin stopped himself. “The citizens, be gentle with the citizens.”


“Yes Chancellor!”


Virin closed the window and turned back to Suzane. Before he could get any words out, Suzane had fully opened her own side window of the carriage and was hanging, from the waist up, outside of it. Instant terror washed over the mug of Virin.


“Your majesty! Please! That is not-“


“Oh, shut it Virin. I am greeting my people.” Suzane interrupted. The cool day’s breeze felt much better then the stuffy air of the carriage. The parade of carriages and knights had finally arrived at one of the first small villages past the city borders. The other carriages carried various servants, nobles of the court, and even some knights who did not wish to ride. Right in the middle of the line was Suzane’s carriage, and here she was hanging from the window of it, greeting the common folk of Kildra, the class she used to belong to long ago.


Times had gotten better for the peasants of Kildra since the war’s end. Suzane relieved many taxes that were put in place right before and during the war. And the people loved her for this. They also saw in her a chance for any of them to aspire to greatness. They lined up in droves to greet her. The royal guard had formed a barrier with their horses that the people yelled and cheered behind. Suzane instructed the guards to let several people through to come closer and greet her physically and personally, much to their dismay and chagrin.


Suzane smiled enthusiastically at each face and tried to enjoy this, as it was one of the few joys of ruling, but that damned song kept blowing in the background, ripping through her thoughts like two dinner forks being rubbed together.

 

[King Ad Rock]

The following was originally posted by Orikanyo in the previous IC


Orikanyo as

Eliza Quinn

_____​

Location: Iorn, Kildra


Date: Month 6, Day 15


Time: Half past the 12th hour of the morning (12:30 P.M.)

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"Well, guess watching people swing swords at one another wouldn't be to bad to watch. At least for abit. Who knows maybe someone will show some showmanship.... Eh? whats that sound?" the woman was stuck in her own inner monologue as the sounding of the Queens arrival bursts to life. Along with half the city, bursting to life like a festival had started a city wide dance. Well, then again that seemed to be a lie.


More like the whole city, or at least 98% of it was currently rushing forward to meet the queen.


Eliza herself was within that number, she wanted to see the queen damn it and come hell or high water she will! Perhaps she could weasel her way into talking with her? Maybe become friends? Surely that HAS to mean something, treasure hunter whos buddies with the Queen of Kildra? Come on, can't even THINK that doesn't sound interesting enough to give her some major warrant to her words. Of course, there was the issue of the fact EVERYBODY was showing up to see the queen. So how would our little sweetie femme fatale get in to meet her?


By doing what she does best.


Flipping up her red hood the woman seemed to sink into the crowd like a red colored shadow, slipping under the burly arm of a sobbing manly giant, elbowing one of two men whom were right next to each other, causing a minor brawl between the two so that she may slip by quite a few people. A little nudge here, a push here, and awkward bump into an equally as endowed woman there and viola!


There she stood, near the blockade of guards, awaiting her chance to approach the rather stunning looking woman, even with her age slowly creeping up might she add. Though now that she was here... she was abit intimidated... Perhaps she shouldn't bother the poor woman? She's likely seen enough "your highness"s and "thank yous" for a lifetime! Perhaps she should just bow her head and duck out of the way, check on Petunia before he goes off kicking anybody who gets to close to the cart. yes, perhaps she should take the modest route, not like she'd be any different then the millions who came to see her today...


Kinda depressing now that she thought about it.


Lady probably had a whole bunch of bullshit to deal with in her life, she was a commoner beforehand right? probably gotten used to it but still she HAS to want to explore. Tear off all those things chaining her down and go out for a walk unhindered for once? Eliza wouldn't be able to do it, she'd probably snap like a twig! Such a responsibility to command the lives of so many, hell this place was many people's whole world! She hoped she'd never have that sort of responsibility, having so much hang upon her decisions...


In her thoughts she found herself being pushed on ahead. "Come on then, hurry up!" a disgruntled fellow behind her barked as she yelped, forced a few steps forward and finding herself in the circle of guards.


Looks like her decision was made for her!


She slowly walked forwards, pulling the hood off her head and looking around at all the people, for one of the few times in her life, she was sheepish... frightened... What if she said something wrong!? What if she insulted her!? Oh gods,, oh gods! What should she say!?!!?


Shivering in her steel boots she finally was close to the queen, her eyes barely unable to look up at the woman. "Umm... uhh... HHh-h-h-ello!" she forced a cheerful greeting before cringing slightly, hoping she didn't over step her bounds.... of course, this fearfulness was suddenly replaced by embarrassment as her stomach decided to make an announcement. (End of dialogue, description of her embarrassment and what her stomache is doing starts here)


*I AM HUNGRY!* her stomache roared without shame, her belly rolling slightly as it whined for the dinner it was promised.


It was that exact moment, that very moment, that Eliza's face turned about as red as her crimson locks... She was shocked... how could her body betray her like this!?!?


RIGHT IN FRONT OF THE QUEEN!?


HER STOMACH GURGLES!?

....​

This is it.


This is where Eliza dies.


Never again will she be able to show her face.


Anywhere.


She has no choice but to change her name, abandon everything and become a hermit.


It's the only way to escape this.


That or death.


But sadly, the latter seems to be at another appointment for the time, leaving Eliza in her state.

 

[King Ad Rock]

The following was originally posted by yoikes in the previous IC​

yoikes as

Kum Liadejhttps://www.rpnation.com/profile/35581-king-ad-rock/

_____
​

Location: Iorn, Kildra


Date: Month 6, Day 15


Time: Half past the 12th hour of the morning (12:30 P.M.)

_____​

Kum's eyes went wide the moment he saw the royal carriage. The color of it and the crest told him everything he needed to know about the passenger on board. The guards cleared the road for her, as the common folk stopped whatever they were doing to stare and then cheer at Her Royal Highness Queen Suzane!


The red haired girl joined the crowd, pushed forward by the movement of the crowd. Kum did not join, after all, he'd meet the Queen tomorrow... One way or another. A Liadej always find a way, or the way opened for them instead.


But then something happened. The cheering turned into a murmur and the carriage came to a halt. Curious, Kum walked closer to see what was going on...


By Gods!


He saw the red haired girl, standing a few feet away from the Queen. How was she able to pass the guards? Why are they not doing anything like pulling her back?? Now what should he do? Save her? Why should he? But if by saving her he had the chance to show him face to the Queen a day early, he might not leave a good impression on her... For now, he should wait and see.

 

[King Ad Rock]

The following was originally posted by Zooks as a collaboration with Deathchart , @Goaty Goat , and Savagai in the previous IC

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Lilly and Leyra
Outside Nervos Estate Bakery
Kildra
12:15 P.M.


@Goaty Goat Leyra

Zooks Lilly

@Deathchart Uma

@Savagai Rufus​

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~ Then Lilly let out a ear-piercing scream even as she curled over holding her head.


The T'Odis girl was freaking out and her scream attracted the attention of the nearby soldiers. Leyra's mind raced as she pulled Lilly one last little bit so she wasn't in the doorway and could lean on the wall. "Everything alright Leyra?" One of the soldiers asked. "Yes, tell everybody to get back to their post." She responded in a fierce manner. "What's up wit-..." The man started before Leyra interrupted. "RIGHT NOW! And bring Yela!" She yelled at the soldier who backed away as soon as he could and the others did as well when they saw her outburst. She calmed down and focused on the girl now. "Kehn bupm. Glai tuma. Pa mug tu lorg iuo."("Calm down. They gone. We not go hurt you.") She said in a calming voice as she refrained from touching the girl now and realized the shackles might frighten her. "Y mug shefa. Y josg bemtar plam emtri. Gleg raesum slekkhas." ("I not slave. I just danger when angry. That reason shackles.") She said as she showed the shackles and Yela came walking over to them. "Glys Yela. Sla hyka waggymt. Iuo pemg wag lar?" ("This Yela. She like petting. You want pet her?")

----​

Lilly was dragged through the doorway by the girl in chains and leaned against the wall, the comfort of having her back pressed against something fleeting as she still wanted to run away and as far as she could from here. She wanted to go back to the solitude of her room at the Estate, but even then she would never have any true solace. Not if the Lord requested to see her or she was forced back with Rufus again. She heard some soldiers asking something with a concerned voice, only for the girl before her to bark something back, making the girl tremble even more. Despite her being smaller then the men inside the Bakery, the girl here still was aggressive in her own manner and she was still a foreigner to Lilly.


Though as the Soldiers eased up and pulled away Lilly took a huge breath in and out, trying to slow her breathing so she would not hyperventilate. Then the girl started to speak T'Odis and it was only now in Lilly's mind that she questioned how she even knew her Mother-tongue. Even despite her words, Lilly was staring at those shackles with a soft shake side to side of her head, not believing. Why would anyone willing put themselves in chains like that? Why would they? The young girl just didn't understand.


Then a Goat wandered over to them and the girl was started to breath slower and slower, looking to the creature with a strange expression. She had seen them around the barns on occasion but never this close. Lord's didn't much like their slaves being out in the open after all or hanging around the Serfs in case word spread. With a shaking hand she did reach out to put her fingers behind his head, but when the creature tossed it's head she yanked her hand back in a half panic, turning away thinking it might bite her or something.


"Whaesa!...Sem iuu gahh Nem plu ys ym slerta, uun iuur vryambs gu haefa Rufus ehuma? La ys Sum uv Hurb Nevarrus uun glys ys lys Asgega. La naems mu lern gu na. Gla uglar T'Odis Y umhi josg nag. Y sgyhh bu mug kmup lys mena."
(Please!...Can you tell Man who is in charge, and your friends to leave Rufus alone? He is Son of Lord Nevarrus and this is his Estate. He means no harm to me. The other T'Odis I only just met. I still do not know his name.)

-----​

The T'Odis girl talked way too fast for Leyra to calmly listen to what she was saying so she couldn't make out every word but the general message got through. The girl tried to tell her that the Kildran inside was the son of some lord and she never met the T'Odis man. She clenched one of her fists and quickly relaxed it again, Damos would find out what was going on with this girl and if she were to go berserk at the strangers she would only bring more chaos and confusion.


She took a better look at the T'Odis girl and her clothes. A frail girl but with some fat in the right places to make any man with weak self-control lose his decency. Also she noticed the choker and cuffs, they were covered with jewels but their purpose was very clear to Leyra. She locked the anger away inside herself and composed herself and looked the T'Odis girl in the eyes.


"Ni mena Leyra Fylkken, iuors?" ("My name Leyra Fylkken, yours?") She started with introductions before she got to the burning questions at hand. "Byb glai lyrg iuo? Glai gri greba iuo?" ("Did they hurt you? They try trade you?")

------​

Lilly watched Leyra as the red head's eyes started to roam over her frame and she felt uncomfortable like her body was on display despite wearing clothes this time. She'd seen that look before, more then once, though mostly with older men who were looking to buy her or use her. Naturally when the girl's eyes wandered over her wrists, Lilly started to reach down and scratch at it in an almost irritated manner. Only aware they were there once the attention was there. As her gaze was draw downwards to peer to the ground she spotted the girl trying and lean down to lock eyes with her to which she slowly lifted her chin to do so. She had spent so many years being a Kildran sub-servant that it was hard to break old habits.


"Ni mena Y... kem nug ranendar. Glymts era.. dhorri. Gluutl nemi kehhab na 'White Lilly'. (My name I... can not remember. Things are.. blurry. Though many called me 'White Lilly')" Here she hesitated a moment as she glanced away before her deep sapphire eyes slowly drifted back.


"Glai? Mug nam ymsyba Dekari, mu... Mug Ymgamgyumehhi. (They? Not men inside Bakery, no... Not intentionally.) " The very corners of her mouth turning upwards though it was a hollow smile. The smile certainly didn't reach her eyes and she looked blank.


"Y lefa daam lorg emb grebab nemi gynas.. Dog mup, Hurb pyslas vor na gu da pygl Rufus. Y umhi rasamghi dhab. Y essona yg ys su Y nei dera lyn em layr. (I have been hurt and traded many times.. But now, Lord wishes for me to be with Rufus. I only recently bled. I assume it is so I may bare him an heir.)" She said in a somewhat hollow tone. For you see, despite her age and her circumstances, and while she was very panic driven, the girl was not completely dumb though her struggle with Common words might have suggested such.

------​

Leyra could drown in those sapphire eyes of Lilly and she had to get herself to focus on the girl's words before she would drool. 'What the hell?' She thought to herself as she felt things she never experienced before. She looked at Lilly and all she wanted to do was embrace her and tell her everything was going to be okay now. It was then when everything Lilly said started to fall together in Leyra's head.


"Hurb pemgs Rufus lefa layr pygl iuo?" ("Lord wants Rufus have heir with you?") She said in a tone that could simply be described as shock. She looked at the door of the bakery with a look filled with so much hatred and with a strong desire to burst in there and tell Damos to kill Rufus' father for what he'd done, but she looked back at Lilly and her anger and hatred on her face made place for concern and compassion. Something about that girl made her feel calm like she hasn't been in a long while since she was trained by Wolf and started having her visions and she liked the calm it brought, maybe it was because she related to the girl for she once was also scared and in a position where she was so vulnerable that she could only cry. Maybe she just didn't want to scare the girl or maybe it was something else she would have to ask Damos about later. But she felt determination inside and a fire burning. She gently took Lilly's hands. "Huuk ym ni aias. Lilly, nam plu lorg iuo, Y pyhh neka glan sovvar gamvuhb plam vymb glan, Y wrunysa um hyva." ("Look in my eyes. Lilly, men who hurt you, I will make them suffer tenfold when find them, I promise on life.") She said with a fire in her eyes and she hoped that Lilly would get her meaning.

------​

Lilly was getting unnerved by the fact the red haired girl before her wasn't looking away from her at all, and especially into her eyes. She'd seen people stare at her eyes like that before, but it still made her feel extremely uncomfortable. Lilly watched the emotions spread across her face like an open book, she looked shocked, then a hatred that leeched from her entire frame that made Lilly take a sharp breath in and instantly pull back a step, well at least try to except she was still up against the wall behind her. Then she looked concerned and calm. Then something she hadn't seen for a very long time...she saw a fire deep in her eyes. She remembered her Brother's all got that look once before they would go out on a hunting trip.


Even with the gentle touch, Lilly still flinched as she always did with personal contact, wanting to reef her hands away but avoiding doing so. The girl was half way shocked. It was the same expression she had when Rufus said he would protect her and that she didn't have to sleep with anyone if she didn't want to. It was the same words that left her utterly confused. Why? She couldn't help but think. Why her of all people? She was just a nothing slave... wasn't she? Just a body and nothing more? To keep men warm at night? Just another vessel now to some Noble lineage she assumed? No one would pay that much for her just for some fun time.


Her face paled and she realized just the significance of why Lord Nevarrus would spend so much on her, why he forced her to be with Rufus, why now when she bled. Rufus said he liked men yes? He had a male lover didn't he? The girl was scared and timid but she was not dull and the shock of suddenly realizing all this was making her more pale as her eyes spaced out, lowering to stare halfway at Lyera's chin and neck then at her face with that same shocked/dawned expression on her face.


She would never leave Kildra, would she? She was destined to be some Noble's vessel to birth a continued lineage. That was her purpose and she realized that now. It was at that time she noticed someone exiting the Bakery and Lilly lifted her gaze slightly expecting it to be Rufus so they could go back to the Estate. While she wasn't too fond of his Father, at least at the Estate it was comfortable. But it was wasn't Rufus at all, it was the T'Odis man who she had talked to before that whole group of people had walked inside. When she left Rufus had been pinned to a wall, had The T'Odis man and the others all ganged up on him? Was he hurt? Had they beaten him to a pulp?


Lilly ripped her hands from Lyera as she ran to him and had already snatched her hands out to fist at his shirt as she glared up to him with her eyes oddly fierce though there were still tears in the corner of them.


"Rufus! Phara ys Rufus!? Plag byb iuu bu gu lyn!? Iuu emb glusa uglar nam!? La lesm'g lorg na! La pes mug ruutl pygl na, qhaesa, hag lyn tu! (Rufus! Where is Rufus!? What did you do to him!? You and those other men!? He hasn't hurt me! He was not rough with me, please, let him go!)"
Even as she said all this she was glancing around his frame with tears in the corners of her eyes with a look of panic on her face.

 

[King Ad Rock]

The following was originally posted by Zooks as a collaboration post with Savagai , Deathchart , and @Goaty Goat in the previous IC​

_____​

Location: Inside Nevos Estate Bakery, Kildra


Date: Month 6, Day 15

Time: 12:15 P.M.

_____​

Savagai as Rufus


Deathchart as Uma


@Goaty Goat as Damos and Airu (Wolf)​

_____​

~ Then Lilly let out a ear-piercing scream even as she curled over holding her head.


The other T'Odis man grabbed Uma's arm and Uma began to retaliate, but before he could the man sprinted over to the Kildran that was with the girl. Before he could respond or even process what was going on another girl, this one with the group grabbed the T'Odis girl and took her outside. As they neared the door the T'Odis girl let out a ear piercing scream.


The scream grew quiet as the door to the bakery shut. Uma runs over to the door in an attempt to chase the girl. He looked outside to survey the situation and saw the other members of this group. He couldn't take them on, especially without a weapon. The Kildran at the counter seemed to be the leader. He did shout orders to the other two. Uma's face fell into his usual empty looking, slight frown. He made his way over to the Kildran who was now finishing his transaction with the baker.
"If you hurt the girl, then this thing is going to turn ugly. I don't care what you do with the Kildran, but let the girl go."

----​

It went fast, too fast. Rufus didn't really like it, normally the bakery was quiet, but now, it was too crowded. There were people not from here. A man grabbed his collar. Rufus wanted to shout to the man 'Who do you think you are?' but remembered he was undercover and changed clothes. Instead, he began to speak with his soft and calm voice. "Where she belongs, I am Lilly's only friend here, so please, release your hand from my collar."

---​

Damos sighed and asked the baker to excuse him for a moment. He turned to the T'Odis man with a calm unimpressed look and spoke equally calm. "Mister, I understand your concern but there's no reason to try to threaten us, the girl will not be harmed and we have no intention to take her away unless we have a good reason to. As for the Kildran..." He turned to Wolf and the Kildran he still held by the collar. "Wolf, release the man." Damos said and after an angry scoff Wolf released the Kildran and took two steps back. "Now, I think we should clear up this little confusion that's going on here. Let's start with introductions, that's Airu 'Wolf' D'Asar, the girl outside is Leyra Fylkken and I am Damos Kitiades, base-born son of Lord Iadas Kitiades, former Sergeant-at-Arms of the Kitiades family, the 'Breaker of Lines' and the commander of the Black Snake Company. Now who might you two be and what is your relation with the T'Odis girl?" Damos spoke as one of noble birth and education would.

---​

Rufus smiled weirdly to Wolf when he was released. The noble turned his attention towards Damos. He began to speak with his a slightly high voice for a male, but with the tone of a noble. "I am Rufus Nevarron, first son of Lord Nevarrus Nevarron, who is the Lord of the lands you are standing on, First Heir of Nevarron." He wanted to go outside, towards Lilly, but the men in front of him would find that unsettling. "Lilly, the T'Odis girl, is, was the slave of my father. Now, I am trying to free her, after I have visited Lord Sef at his tournament, and bringing her back towards her home." He looked at the man, trying to read his face.

----​

Uma stared at the man who called himself Damos. Another Kildran noble. Leader of some army it seemed like. Uma had no problem with them, if what the man was saying was true. Uma listened as the other Kildran introduced himself. Uma knew he was the son of Lord Nevarron. He said he had plans to free the girl. Lilly was her name. Uma couldn't help but smile a little at the sound of the girls name. He realized he still hasn't given her his name. He would go out to tell her but the situation inside needed to be resolved. Uma's face settled down to his usual blank look and he turned towards Damos.


"My name is Uma Drefa. I was here to buy the freedom of the T'Odis girl from... Rufus was it?" Uma said to the group, his voice was deep, but articulate. His voice didn't have a single trace of a T'Odis accent, drastically different from the fluent T'Odis he was speaking earlier.

----​

Damos looked at both Rufus and Uma and didn't change his facial expression. The son of Lord Nevarrus out in an obscure bakery with the slave of his father and a T'Odis named Uma seemingly tracked them down, talk about uncanny coincidences.


"Well met gentlemen, now I hope there's no harsh feelings here, Wolf was just acting on instinct since this wouldn't be the first time we accidentally barged in on a potential slave trade." He began calm and reasonable. "For now I will give both of you the benefit of the doubt and not suspect you of slavery. Now, with no intended disrespect sir Rufus, I don't think you'll be able to bring the T'Odis girl named Lilly home safely and survive the trip yourself." He meant that, Rufus didn't look like the type to last long in T'Odis, let stand the road there. "However, I think we can make a deal that will benefit us both and gets the girl home perfectly save." He said that and smiled slightly. "Oh, in case you're worried, no we're not going to stab you once you pay us anything and we don't intend on committing any kidnapping or rapes, Leyra would murder me if that happened. And it would look bad for a company that has been under the Queen's employ to meddle in criminal activities wouldn't it?"

-----​

After Rufus Nevarron introduced himself he expected the men he was standing before to somehow acknowledge his title, however all he got was a blank look from the T'Odis man who had been speaking to Lilly at the front of the bakery, and a dismissive tone from the shorter man who had sprouted his title and rank like that might somehow excuse him for his men's behavior at throwing the Noble around. Rufus couldn't help but brush down the front of his shirt slightly more in disdain. True, he was wearing casual clothing, but anyone hearing someone claiming to be of such a high birth as himself, should for the least part address him with a much more serious manner. After all, who are they to know who he actually was? It rubbed him the wrong way and his displeasure was starting to show more and more on his face.


"Intended disrespect or not, how I chose to bring the young T'Odis is how I see fit. The fact you think I am not capable to bring her to her Homeland is completely irrelevant. You misunderstand that this very land you stand on right now, belongs to my Father and by extension myself. You really believe a Noble such as myself would venture, alone, to T'Odis? There is more then enough capable men to help escort me. So what makes you think your little band of merry men are suitable enough to escort myself, my partner and the girl to T'Odis? All I have seen so far is an aggressive T'Odis wild man, a girl contained in chains and a self-entitled little man."


Normally Rufus would not be this bold, nor this aggressive, and he didn't much care that there was close on an army outside. "More to the point, what is your group doing trespassing on my land without approval from my Father or myself? A company of this size is required by law to state your intentions before trashing through here. So it would be wise to tell me, now, before I call my own Guard to escort you out with or without your obviously needed supplies."


At this the Kildran Noble turned as if to completely ignore Damos and focused his attention on Uma. "While your intentions are probably noble, I can not offer you that right. If you wish to buy her you will have to contact my Father as he is the one who owns her. And..." Rufus paused for a moment, figuring out the best way to tell him without sounding too offensive. So far Uma had shown nothing to make Rufus dislike him. "....She is worth more then you could even dream. I am unaware how much my Father... ahh... paid for her services, but... I am not sure a man such as yourself can well afford it." He tried to say this last line as painlessly as he was able.

----​

Uma listened intently as everyone in the room started talking back and forth. Uma was fine with being out of the conversation, in fact he didn't even want to be there. All he cared about was getting Lilly out of this situation. He had plenty of money from his days as a merchant. It helped that he didn't have any kids or a wife to have to provide for. Uma kept listening as Rufus began to attempt to show his dominance over the group that had filled the area. Uma couldn't help to laugh a little at the situation. He had just been pressed up against a wall with little effort and this group could easily kill him without a care. Uma had to admire the kid's courage though.
When Rufus turned towards Uma to talk to him, it caught Uma off guard.


Rufus began making assumptions that he could even afford Lilly let alone know how much she was. Uma couldn't blame him for his assumptions, Uma wasn't dressed like a man of wealth. He never liked showing off his money, that's how you get robbed. It also wasn't common for a merchant to have much in the way of wealth, but Uma was very good at his job. Uma also did his research and knew exactly how much Rufus' father paid for Lilly. Uma also brought enough money to pay for her and some. He wasn't going to let Lilly suffer anymore. Uma decided it was time to show his intentions and not let Rufus think he was dealing with a deranged old merchant anymore. Uma reached into his pouch and pulled out a golden statue adorned in jewels of all different sizes and colors. The statue was of a skull about the size of a small child's skull. He held it up to show Rufus.


"I found this in my time in Indoria. A young man was selling it for half of what it was worth. Your father bought Lilly with enough to buy an estate half the size of yours. This could buy your estate and your workers." Uma placed the statue back into his pouch. "It would do you well to not make assumptions. It will only end up hurting you." Uma then turned to Damos. "It seems the boy is not Lilly's owner, therefore I no longer have any business with him. I will take my leave now."


Uma turned towards the door and began to leave.

-----​

Damos had to contain himself from laughing at the brave attempt of Rufus to ascertain his position and title. "Dear Rufus, I don't think we know each other and I think you need to have your memory jogged a bit because I'm fairly sure anybody would've heard of the Black Talon Company and the Painted Snakes Companies and their feats during the war. The Black Snakes were one of the Painted Snakes Companies and we have experience with hunting Ice Tral-El before we even got into the war, we protected caravans during the T'Odis winter and had our fair share in foraging lessons from the locals. Hell with that brute that is Airu 'the Wolf' we can go as deep into the Frozen Wilds as we could possibly want and come back out alive." Damos said calmly to Rufus. "So yeah, we know exactly how we would go about bringing a T'Odis girl home. And now about that self-entitled little man part, yes I'm smaller than a regular Kildran but I'm not that self-entitled as you think dear Rufus." He said calmly.


"During the war I've earned my scars and battle-title with blood and steel and put countless people of noble descent into the ground just because they were against the Queen. My family was one of the few to back the Queen from the very start and it almost cost them their life and everything they held dear." He kept saying as he kept calm and took a step towards Rufus. "The 'merry band' I have is strong enough to lay your father's territory in ash before you could even get word to the Queen and that is no threat, that is a statement. Luckily that is not what we're here to do at all and I have no rampant temper that could start the Fifth Kildran Civil War. Also we already informed your father that we would be entering his territory with the intent of purchasing supplies and taking care of banditry if we would run across any bandit activity, so I would advise you to go back to your father with Lilly and pretend you didn't run into us for he might be a bit stressed that you’re out here with his 'property' whilst we are around..."


He finished for a bit as a put a pouch of coin on the counter for the baker to pay for what he ordered. "So Rufus, you're free to go if you wish with Lilly, but I would advise you to stay and listen to my proposition or come by later when things have sunk in a bit, alright?" He added with a genuine smile before looking Airu in the eye who without a word or remark moved out of Rufus’ way.

-----​

Rufus eye's narrowed down further and his teeth gritted along with his jaw which continued to be tense. He listened to Damos and he spoke of his company, his title, his war stories and how capable him and his company were. There were a few times the Noble's son wanted to interject but he took a deep calming breath and simply heard him out. After all, Rufus was famous around the Estate for being kind to the people and the people adored him and his friendly nature. It wouldn't sit well if rumors started he was slowly turning into his Father and his much more strict ruling.


As Damos Stepped forward, Rufus took every single will power he still maintained to hold his ground as his eyes never left the other man's. Squaring his shoulders without meaning to and his back completely straight. Of course his irritation almost completely fled to be replacement with momentary panic as he heard that Damos had already sent out word he was passing through to his Father. Clearly because Rufus has been out all day, he hadn't heard of this very information, which now put him in a very awkward position that only made him seem all the more uninformed and idiotic. Mentally slamming his hand to his head, while he re composed himself, he looked to Uma and once again his assumption made him out to be the fool. While the item looked exotic and worth a fortune, Rufus very much doubted that any amount of money would change his Father's mind.


That was when the cogs started to turn and once Uma was out of the building, Rufus turned to face Damos more solidly as a knowing grin covered his face.


"Proposition you say?.....


Alright.


I'll listen...."

 

[King Ad Rock]

The following was originally posted by @Dirk Diggler in the Previous IC


@Dirk Diggler
as

Vanse D'Enishora & Maerwynn T'Iiosha

______​

Date: Month 6, Day 15


Location: Blue Bellied Bull Inn/ Reshinall Village - Northern Kildra


Time: 7th Hour of Morning

_____​

“What was that back there?” Maerwynn asked. Vanse paused for a moment as he thought about where to begin.


Should he just be direct? Yeah, best not to beat around the bush.


“Y en e votogyfa.” he spoke. He looked up and met his companions puzzled gaze. “I mean,” He shook his head slightly, “I am a fugitive. Men who attacked us, they were not bandits... They were Justice Horde knights.” He looked away shamefully. “Another horde is bound to eventually come for me, and they will know I have traveled with a young Kildran woman.” Vanse looked back at Maerwynn as seriously as he could. “And they will torture her endlessly for information on my whereabouts, whether she has any or not.” He let the revelation sink in. She didn't react right away. He expected her to be scared and angry, to begin shouting or crying at any moment.


Maerwynn fell silent as his information began to sink in. She knew that their attackers had been after him, that much she could discern. The fact that he was a fugitive didn't bother her as much as not knowing what kind of a wanted man he was. As far she knew, Vanse could have been a bandit who was rightfully being prosecuted. The realization that she knew nothing about this man besides his name hit her and she suddenly drew in her legs. The comfortable atmosphere was gone; in its place stood the terror of uncertainty.


"I only meant the storm," Maerwynn replied softly. She had never wanted to learn Vanse's terrible secret; her suspicions had been enough to make her content. But now he had given her cause to face them instead of the ignoring she had done - and it terrified her. And what of the torture he had brought up? Maerwynn was a tough girl but no human could overcome their imagination. And what Maerwynn imagined was rape - rape and death. She had fought every day for life in the Frozen Forest and in her struggles, she had seen things - the true underbelly of man. Maerwynn had held sympathy for the women she had seen brutalized but even then the acts had seemed so far away from her - not anymore.


"Oh gods..."


Maerwynn closed her eyes to compose herself. The horde, as Vanse had described them, were certain to come. Her time to leave Vanse had passed long ago - now that she was associated with the man, there was no escape. Maerwynn certainly couldn't run for long in her state and fending them off wasn't even in the realm of possibilities. She made up her mind to stick with Vanse as memories of his fight began to arise anew.


"I thought maybe we could hide from them..." Maerwynn sighed. Never had she been hunted like this. Still, she was thankful for the lead that they had generated and things did seem clear for now.


"Well... I feel like there's no point in separating at this point. But Vanse, promise me one thing," Maerwynn's voice was hard and determined. "If they catch us - kill me. I'd rather die then..." She petered off but her intent remained clear.


Vanse's eyes widened, and his mouth dropped slightly. He expected her to become concerned and worry, but he didn't intend to terrify her to her core. He could only imagine the terrible things going through her mind.


“There will be no need,” He assured her. “Another horde is probably just discovering scene at gate. They will report back to capital, and send another if they deem it necessary. Which could take days. That gives us plenty of time to set distance, cover tracks, and safely part ways. We must be...” His brow furrowed as he fell deep into thought. “Keogyuos,” he remembered the word that escaped him. Cautious.” The Kildran common words were difficult to get used to. “Besides, nine came after us... How many left?” The room grew silent. The faint sound of chatter and footsteps could be heard from downstairs. Vanse, for once, found the silence uncomfortable and tried to change the subject. “That storm was not natural. I have never seen anything like it. Way it covered everything in such a deep darkness...”


For the first real time he found himself thinking of that storm. So much had been going on, he kept pushing it to the back of his mind. It seemed so impossible, he couldn't help but feel like it was almost supernatural in a way. But, it wasn't just how quickly it came and went that made him think that. He almost couldn't make any sense of it, but when that darkness overtook him, he felt almost... Bloodthirsty. Like he wanted to kill them, but he never felt anything like that in his life.


Was the storm somehow to blame?


He quickly shook the thought from his head. He hadn't slept in far too long, and he obviously wasn't thinking straight. Sleep was essential if he wanted to survive. His mind needed to be aware and sharp. So for the first time in what had to be days, he leaned his head back and closed his eyes. For a moment he thought it was pointless. There was no possible way he could sleep after what he's been through, but he was out before his head touched the wall.

 

[King Ad Rock]

The following was posted by King Ad Rock as a collaboration with Orikanyo


@Orikanyo as

Eliza Quinn

and


@King Ad Rock as

Queen Suzane Hildren of Kildra

____

Location: Iorn, Kildra​

Date: Month 6, Day 15

Time: 12th hour of the Morning (12 P.M.)

_____
​

The ever-beautiful yet still aging Queen Suzane rested her delicate forehead against the frame of the window to her carriage in an aggravated and bored state. The incessant regal tune was continuing to float upon the Kildran winds threatening to drive her mad before she ever officially arrived in Iorn. Suzane had greeted quite a few of the common people before Virin insisted that they be on their way lest they be even later than they already were, and no sooner then she could blink, they were back on their way. The jostling of the carriage as it rode over the rocky road caused her head to bump and bobble but she paid it no mind. Before she could rage at Virin again that this was the last year of this irritating tradition, she pricked her head up at the sight that was now entering her view.


The spaced out small huts, shacks, and homes of the outlying villages of Iorn that contained the peasant folk was now beginning to give way to the more densely packed larger houses of the rich and nobles. Not much further than that was the impressive city gate to Iorn, it’s drawbridge already down in anticipation of their arrival. Citizens thickly packed the top of the city gate and all along the road leading to it, cheering and clamoring at the top of their lungs over the Queen’s arrival. Suzane smiled humbly from behind her window, waving elegantly to them all as she did so. Although a part of her adored her current life, the duties of a Queen and ruler were beyond tiresome for the widowed monarch.


As they passed through the gate, a wondrous thing happened. The increasing roar of the crowds around her began to drown out the horrible sound of the looping horn. Suzane could feel the tension in her mind begin to ease at this wonderful turn of events. Chancellor Virin leaned forward to speak over the cacophony of voices,


“Looks like we will be at the coliseum in-“


“Virin, have the driver stop again. I would like to welcome the people of Iorn as well.” Suzane interrupted as if she had not heard her confidant at all.


“But your majesty we are already late as it is.” The aggravation was evident in the chancellor’s voice.


“Then what are a few more moments Virin? Even later we shall be. The people of this city have been waiting years for me to attend one of these tournaments, it is only right that I take the time to give them a proper greeting.” Throughout speaking this, Suzane did not bother to gaze in Virin’s direction, instead continuing to look out her window with a half smile upon her face.


Virin grumbled something that sounded like, “Yes, well…” and before he could go on, the unpredictable Queen had opened her door and leapt from the still-moving carriage. This behavior did not surprise Virin, but only angered him further.


With her exit from the stuffy insides of her ride, she found herself almost in the middle of a town square. The royal guard including the Kildran Sisters had cleared a large path for the many royal carriages to get through. The Queen raised her arm high above her head and gave a hearty wave to an uproarious round of applause, but before she could open her mouth to speak to the crowds, a pleasant image came forward and stopped the rarely speechless monarch in her tracks. Coming straight towards her was a meek yet adorable, little red headed woman with wide eyes full of expression. She was seemingly inching towards Suzane at a nervous pace, somehow past the eyes of the guard. The young lady appeared as if she wanted to say something to Suzane, but before she could, Suzane belted out at her first,


“Ohh my! Aren’t you a pleasant sight to behold!? And would you look at that hair!? It is absolutely beautiful!” Suzane could not help herself and swiftly closed the gap in between them with outstretched arms. Ignoring any form of etiquette, the Queen took her subject’s vibrantly colored hair into her dainty hands while smiling and looking deep into her saucer-like eyes.


“You know, when I was growing up in a small village I would always get so many kind compliments and unwanted attention for my hair, but every time I came across someone with fire-kissed hair such as yours, I could not help but be envious. As much as golden hair is valued, red hair is so unique and different, don’t you think?” Suzane’s pearly white smile widened as she questioned her new companion.


A loud gurgling noise managed to cut through the callings of the onlookers and interrupt their conversation before the red headed woman had a chance to answer. Suzane gave her a puzzled look before realizing just what exactly the noise was.


“Oh my dear, are you hungry?

_____​

Eliza stared at the woman for the moment... She... wasn't angry!? thank whatever helped her at this moment because she dodged one hell of a bolt. Thats also when she noticed the woman was... running a hand through her hair?


Her hair?


She loved Eliza's hair!


"O-o-o-oh! Well thank you it runs in the family, me and all my sisters have it~! though i do my best to keep it clean and healthy of course, all the time on the road can really mess it up you know." she laughed nervously, her words hurried and her eyes watching all around her for anybody who might be coming over to pluck her away from the Queen of Kildra... wait.. didn't she also say something else!?


Oh!


The belly thing!


Stupid!


Stupid Eliza!


Hurry up!


Speak!


"Y-y-y-yes your highness, I am a tad-" another formidable roar from her bowels, seemingly practicing it's lion imitation. "..Hungry..." the woman seemed to deflate in defeat. "I'm sorry my lady, I had forgotten to eat... Slipped my mind in my haste to see your royal highness." she bowed three times, completely unsure of what she was supposed to do before such a person as her. Her hand reached towards the ponytail that was brought to her shoulder by the woman's hand, her hand combing and running through the crimson lock, she felt it's silken whorl of crimson comforting as she ran her lithe fingers through it. Her eyes were glued to the ground, glancing up at the beautiful older woman when she dared to try and see her.


Suzane was more than amused at the young woman’s shy and nervous demeanor. Her awkward multiple bows in a row almost made the elder woman burst out in a fit of laughter, but she was able to keep her composure so as not to embarrass the lithe little thing.

“What a sweetheart.” Suzane thought to herself. She could not place what it exactly was about the girl that delighted her so. Was it her short stature compared to Suzanes rather tall frame combined with those large, beautiful eyes and cute voice? It could have just been the fact that Suzane had always wanted a daughter or a sister. The Queen who had grown up a commoner had not only just one son, but was also an only child.


Suzane put a gentle hand on the woman’s should to bring her up from her third bow in a row. With another welcoming smile, she asked, “Well we’ll just have to do something about that, now won’t we? What is your name, child?”


Eliza froze, was this actually happening!? The queen... she was... offering to dine with her!? What could she say? Was this a test!? What if she was legitimately offering!? Wait, didn't she have dinner plans with that guy before? What was his name? Who was he? Where was petunia? What was she doing here!?


ELIZA!


MOUTH!


MOVE NOW!


"I... umm... I am Eliza Quinn, at your service your majesty." she spoke the first stable sentence since she began speaking to the woman. "Its an utmost pleasure to speak with you!' the younger woman regained some of her cheer, slowly regaining her footing lost from her earlier. "An honor." she looked pleased as punch but still worried this might be taken from her at any moment.


Suzane's grin was widening by the second. "Eliza? That is a beautiful name. I absolutely adore it!" The Queen of her late forties now appeared as giddy as a young lady. Without hesitation, Suzanne grabbed Eliza's dainty hands into her own and brought the small woman closer.


One of the Kildran Sword Sisters that was holding back the crowd took notice of what was going on with the Queen and her new friend. With obvious suspicion in her voice, she questioned loudly to cut through the crowd's collective roar,


"Is everything alright your majesty?"


"Absolutely splendid Bella! This lovely young lady will be joining my carriage! No need to worry about a thing!" Suzane waved excitedly at her personal guard with her right hand while still clasping one of Eliza's hands with her left. She then turned her attention back to Eliza again once it appeared that the sister accepted her answer. Her own golden locks were done up in a fine braid for the occasion and whipped around her as she spun.


"The nobles of these cities always put out far too much food for me when ever I visit. They must think me a forest bear! And you are in luck! Kendrel Iornia fought against me, and the ones who fought against me always put out the best food.” Queen Suzane spoke frankly as was her trademark. She never minced words and always spoke her mind. Many who are graced with her presence for the first time are greatly surprised by her wit and sharp tongue.


Suzane started to make her way back to the royal carriage she had vaulted herself from only a brief while before with Eliza’s hand still firmly in hers. The gathered peoples of Iorn were still clamoring and hollering in amassing groups, seemingly more worked into frenzy by the sight of a random woman approaching the Queen and being taken into her arms.


“Come, there is plenty of room inside once we force the Chancellor to move over!” Suzane shouted over the crowd while smiling at Eliza over her shoulder.


Eliza was still completely confused by everything that was going on, her mind in a haze, lost in the lands of confusion and worry. She pretty much followed Suzane... Queen Suzane, out of instinct, he mind a flutter and off elsewhere, telling her body to just "deal with it for now, I'm going on break."


Her eyes looked to the sword sister, a woman who could kill poor Eliza with a flick of her wrist! She was a lioness! A lioness in human form! With a... really pretty braid... Should she get a braid like that? She always let her locks just fly in the wind with her pony tail but perhaps a braid would be fun? it'd certainly stop it from getting stuck in things truly, might be helpful when it comes time to get kicking so her hair doesn't get in the way... though that's a really nicely done braid, who did that for her? must've been tough if she did it herself so...


Sudden thoughts of the royal guard getting together and braiding each other's hair fills her mind, bringing a slight amused look to her face. Maybe they also chatted about boys and gossiped about the other knights.


She followed the Queen, who was more or less dragging her along. On mention of going into the carriage her stomach filled with butterflies once more, her day dream broken by a sudden worry about the other nobles and the chancellor... What type of man was he? Wait, was it a he? the sudden realization that everything she knew about the chancellor just up and disappeared with her wayward brain.


"Okay!" she blurted out, doing her best to follow the Queen. "People are really noisy today!"


Perhaps the Queen did the woman's braid?

 

[King Ad Rock]

The following was originally posted by @Goaty Goat as collaboration with Zooks , Deathchart , Savagai

_____​

Location: Nevarron Estate Bakery

Time: 12:00 P.M., Month 6, Day 15, 369


Date: Month 6, Day 15

_____​

Zooks as Lilly and Rufus


Deathchart as Uma


@Savagai as Rufus


@Goaty Goat as Leyra, Damos and Airu (Wolf)
______​

Uma took a few steps out of the bakery and before he could process all of the people around him Lilly ran up to him and began shouting about Rufus. Uma could understand her fear. Rufus seemed to be treating her nice and she latched on to that. Uma could understand that. Uma bent down to get on the same level as Lilly.


"Y en mug pygl glasa wauwha. Dog bu mug purri Lilly. Rufus pyhh da vyma. Glasa wauwha pyhh mug lorg lyn. Y en mug pygl glasa wauwha. (I am not with these people. But do not worry Lilly. Rufus will be fine. These people will not hurt him.)"


Uma said with his calmest voice he could possibly muster. Uma kept his body language subtle and made sure to not make any sudden movements. He didn't want to frighten Lilly again.


Lilly's eyes were burning, this whole day had been a nightmare. Or at least the portion from the Bakery onward. It was hard enough having to sleep with Rufus the night before, but during the morning she had become to spend some time with the Noble and realized his situation was not that much different to her own. He was forced to play Noble simply because of who he was and his namesake, which only got more confusing when he realized that he liked men.


It seemed like both of them were fated for things they had no control over. She just wanted to go home, to the estate, to sleep, to spend some time alone. To collect her thoughts. She had not seen a T'Odis in so many seasons, and now not only one but two had surfaced? What were the chances really?


Lilly watched the first T'Odis man as he knelt down again as she hurried tried to wipe her eyes, her sniffling dying down a fraction. She clasped her hands gently before her as her earlier panic started to calm down once more. She had no reason to distrust him, he had done nothing really so far to earn her distrust. He had touched her face but only before he had known she didn't like the contact.


"Yv iuu era mug pygl glasa wauwha, glam pli era iuo lara? Unn pleg ys iuur mena? (If you are not with these people, then why are you here? And what is your name?)"


Once again, Lilly saw the man kneeling and remembering his grunt from earlier she finally reaching her hands forward and placed them onto his shoulder gently as she whispered in a much more hurried and softer voice so only he would hear. Not that anyone around them would understand anyway, speaking their Mother-Tongue.


"Whaesa, Y knup kmaahymt drymts iuu traeg byssunvurg unn Y puuhb saa gu yg iuu bu mug da ym weam daseosa uv na. (Please, I know kneeling brings you great discomfort and I would see to it you do not be in pain because of me.)"


Her hands slid down his shoulders a fraction to grasp at his biceps and gently lift him back up to his feet and his full stand again. She was finding his height not as intimidating now she had talk to him further, plus the whole group did not surround her anymore.



Inside the bakery Rufus held his gaze onto Damos as he waited for his response. But then, something struck a chord inside of him. Perhaps it was their perceived disrespect of himself and his position, but Rufus had decided he had had enough, and would hear no such proposal from this motley crew in that exact moment.


"You clearly need time to think of this proposal, and quite frankly I've had my fill of this situation. I'll be taking the T'Odis girl with me back to the Estate and you are free to venture through the lands, if you are only dealing with replenishing your supplies and dealing with any bandit activity."


Rufus's eyes drifted out to the open window and Lilly who would surely still be waiting outside of him and he was getting antsy to make sure she was okay being surrounded by people he didn't know or associate with. Though he didn't show as such. With that said the Noble straightened his shirt and turned to walk out of the Bakery giving Ainu a frosty glare as he did. He knew the man only took orders from Damos so he felt it safe enough to show his displeasure towards him knowing he wouldn't retaliate.


Stepping outside, Rufus spotted Lilly as she was leaning in close to Uma and talking in a hushed tone like she were speaking some huge secret. He lifted his eyebrow but he moved to the side of the Bakery and unhooked the reins of the horse before he took himself and creature to where the small party of Leyra, Uma and the white haired girl were standing. "Come, Lilly, its time to go home."


Lilly looked over Uma's shoulder as she spotted Rufus with the huge black beast of his horse, all saddled up and felt a wave of relief flow through her. He still had his eyebrows pressed down in a weird manner, but overall he was well and that was all the girl cared about.


She took one look over her shoulder to Leyra and gave her a gentle smile. "Leyra... worry not. Rufus here. Rufus keep me safe. Yela... very mmm... soft fur...remind me of White land..." Her eyes drifting away to the hills and with that said Rufus wordlessly grasped the girl and helped her up onto the tall Stallion before hoisting himself up and wrapping his arms around her to keep her secure and steady.


Lilly peered over Rufus's shoulder now as she looked to Uma with a soft smile and said in a tiny voice that almost got lost on the wind. "Y luwa pa naag eteym. Y pyhh lefa gae peygymt vur iuu. Mu yvs, mu dogs. (I hope we meet again. I will have tea waiting for you. No if’s, no buts.)" Rufus dug his heels into the beast and torn off giving practically no time for the Mercenary group to move so most simply leapt or moved hastily away.


Rufus wanted to get back home as fast as possible and speak with his Father. They had a lot to discuss and his face darkened more as he thought about it. Meanwhile Lilly just slipped her eyes closed tightly as she tried not to get dizzy, curling up slightly more into Rufus's frame as she did.

_____
​

As Lilly began to calm down Uma felt a sense of relief. This entire situation has been rather stressful on her. That much was obvious. He finally started to calm down himself, and was so glad to finally get a chance to talk to her. He couldn't help but get lost into her voice as she asked questions and helped him up. Despite what the world had put her through she still was a caring person at heart. Uma admired that.


Just as Lilly finished her stack of questions, before Uma could answer Rufus came out. Rufus seemed annoyed a bit. Uma couldn't blame the kid. This group didn't quite show him the behavior he usually gets around here. Rufus took Lilly and began mounting the horse. Before they left Lilly looked back at Uma and said "Y luwa pa naag eteym. Y pyhh lefa gae peygymt vur iuu. Mu yvs, mu dogs. (I hope we meet again. I will have tea waiting for you. No ifs, no buts.)"


It took Uma a moment to respond. Just as Rufus began to leave with Lilly, Uma said "Ni mena ys Uma Drefa. (My name is Uma Drefa)" He gave a smile and a bow. "Omgyhh maxg gyna! (Untill next time!)" Then waved as the two on horseback rode towards Rufus's estate.


Uma turned towards his own horse and hopped on. He turned towards his own home and began his ride. He planned on visiting the estate tomorrow to purchase Lilly's freedom. He might as well open up shop for the rest of the day and sell some of his goods. He still had to make a living.

_____​

Leyra couldn't really follow what Lilly's sudden outburst to the unknown T'Odis was about but she could hear Lilly feared for something. She was about to step forward when the T'Odis bent down and calmed Lilly down. Leyra's head was a maelstrom of emotions and thoughts, one of them that the T'Odis man had killed everybody in the bakery but as she scratched Yela's nose she reminded herself that her paranoia usually leads to bloodshed, besides that it would be impossible to fight Wolf and Damos at the same time on your own, she just knew that. The two T'Odis continued their conversation and Leyra couldn't really catch on what they were saying and was also partially distracted by some of the men who had started loading up the first parts of the food they had purchased.


When Rufus came out and told Lilly it was time to go Leyra had to keep herself from getting involved with all her willpower, Yela's presence and playful bumps were a welcome help on that field. When Leyra heard Lilly talk to her she felt a weird mix of sadness but also warmth. "Lilly, Y wrei pa naag eteym, pygluog slekkhas." ("Lilly, I pray we meet again, without shackles.") She looked Lilly in the eyes with a warm, sad glint as she spoke those parting words.


When Rufus stormed off and almost ran into several of the men of their company Leyra was almost tempted not to give the order for an all-clear. "Sergeant! Sound the all-clear lest they end up hindered by lieutenant Lutwin!" She called to the sergeant who carried the horn. Without any argument the sergeant blew the all-clear signal and Leyra just hoped lieutenant Lutwin wouldn't make things worse than they already are. She looked at the T'Odis man leave as well and wondered that maybe if things didn't go so fast he and Wolf could've been friends or not.


Damos was about to tell Rufus the plan he had in mind, one where he would've suggested to Rufus to smuggle funds out of his father's treasury to pay for the services of his company and how they would get Lilly all the way to T'Odis in a save manner, but before he could start the baker distracted him. "I have handed what I already had baked to your men, some of it might be a bit stale but it beats an empty stomach eh?" The baker said and Damos replied. "Thank you, we will stay here for an hour or two to take anything you bake on before being on our way master baker." He turned around to Rufus who said something to him but he didn't quite catch what he said and only saw Rufus leaving the bakery.


"Airu, go and tell Nids that he and his boys and girls can come to the convoy and collect their part of the pastries." Damos said to Airu and watched Airu leave the bakery before he turned to the baker again. "Good friend, I do have to remind you that interrupting conversations is rather rude." He said to the baker with a kind tone before receiving a freshly baked sweetroll. "I hope the money will suffice to build that patio you were talking about last time I was here." He added before he walked out in a generally good mood.


Two hours later the Black Snake Company regrouped, fed themselves and continued on their way to Nevos. When they just started to leave Leyra asked something as Damos helped her onto the back of Lada. "Damos, I have this strange feeling in my stomach since I went outside with that girl Lilly, what is it?" She asked rather confused and made Damos smile. "That my dear Leyra means that you're in love." He said before they rode off.

 

[King Ad Rock]

The following was originally posted by Gradous13 in the previous IC

_____​

Location: Reshinall Village, Northern Kildra


Date: Month 6, Day 15


Time: The tenth hour of morning (10 A.M.)

_____​

The snow had long since stopped crunching beneath Riene's feet as her walk continued. Her sword drawn and held by her right hand skimmed the low grass of the North-East Kildran country side. Riene looked as if she was about to fall to the ground only to be caught by a long needed rest. "Tug....Hokki.." ("Got....lucky..") Riene muttered, her voice shallow and weak "...glegs ehh, Hokk...Y pyhh vymb iuo... Y kmup pamg suogl...." ("that's all, luck...I will find you... I know you went south...") the tall T''Odis woman fell to her knees, the blood caked sword hit the ground with a thump, her body leaned back as she looked to the sky, "Pegar..." her mind cleared as the gentle wind pressed against her followed by the sound of a nearby creek. After she had jumped to her feet, Riene grabbed her weapon and ran to the sound of the flowing water and came upon a large creek flowing away from the mountains...


..A large grin stretched across her face and she began drinking to her hearts content. a soft gasp and a sigh came from Riene as she stopped drinking then to grab a tear drop shaped canteen off her self to fill it up with the fresh water. the canteen was secured around her by a sturdy leather band and had a metal with cork inside to keep the water secured with in. Riene took her sword by the pommel and held it before her with two hands and looked upon the blade that was coated in the blood of three men from her last encounter. gently placing it down on the ground she removed her pack and opened it. After bringing out some food and a maintenance kit, Riene went to work On her blade, soon restoring it to it previously pristine condition. Riene returned the kit to her pack and secured it on her back "Gyna gu tag nufymt" ("Time to get moving.")


Riene looked back behind her and gazed upon the Great Ice Mountains of T'Odis in awe, She had been in pursuit of four men that could have information she might need in her quest, three of which she had slain the fourth had fled south. It was clear to her that continuing south would be a wasted gesture and began her trip back to T'Odis through the T'Odis Gate which was about a few hours trip judging by the distance from her to the mountains. Reshinall Village was the small area just outside the gate which had an inn where she could get some rest and good food before returning to her homeland...


Riene took in the scenery, which was very unlike her, mainly because she was always busy hunting down certain types of people who may or may not know information on the bastard who murdered her father. The sky was beginning to show the signs of the sun by its multicolored canvas that stretched from horizon to horizon,the air was cool, the mountains where beautiful in the background of the lush grassland. Riene reached the outskirts of Reshinall Village around seven in the morning. She returned the sword back into its sheath before entering the town. The towns people here where very accustom to the T'Odis people, Riene could tell as they didn't care about her height, even though she towered over them at six foot nine inches. The in was in the center of the towns main road making it easy to find. Walking into the Blue Bellied Bull Inn, Riene hoped the person at the count spoke her language other wise it was going to be a rough start to the day...


A nervous welcome came from the young woman behind the counter as Riene walked in. Unfortunately Riene only understood Kildran and she gave a heavy sigh upon hearing the Kildran greeting, "Bu iuo swaak T'Odis?" the young girl just gave a confused look hearing Riene's question and was about to get an earful from Rienes frustration if it had not been for the owner "


"Y swaak T'Odis, Era iuo huukymt vur e ruun?" (I speak T'Odis, are you looking for a room?)


"Iael, ehsu vuub uun brymk" ("Yeah, also food and drink")


"Gan tuhb, ruun gam, iuor vuub uun brymk pyhh da ow suum" ("Ten gold, room ten, your food and drink will be up soon")


Riene quickly counted out the coin and dropped it on the counter, receiving the key in return. She ascended the stairs and walked down the corridor, her boots thudded against the ground s her legs shown their true colors of exhaustion. she opened the door walked in and pushed the door back to the frame, unknowing it was still slightly open and fell asleep upon the bed with her gear still attached to her...

 

[King Ad Rock]

The following was originally posted by @Dirk Diggler in the previous IC

@Dirk Diggler
as

Vanse D'Enishora & Maerwynn T'Iiosha

_____​

Location: Roads to Boar's Den


Date: Month 6, Day 15


Time: 11th Hour of the Morning

_____
​

Sunbeams shone across the room through small cracks and holes in the walls.The smell of cooked meat filled the air as Vanse slowly opened his eyes and was surprised of how well he slept. He looked over at the still asleep Maerwynn. The poor girl didn’t deserve to be in this situation… He quickly shook the thought from his mind. What’s done is done. He can’t keep licking old wounds. Last night he said he would ensure her safety, and he intended to do so.


Standing was difficult, you would think he had forgotten how. When he finally got to his feet, his stomach roared as the smell of food filling his airways. And a meal sounded like the perfect thing to take his mind off things at the moment. He opened the door and turned to Maerwynn before leaving. He decided he would bring something up for her for when she woke up. As he made his way down the hall he took quick note that a door to one of the other rooms hung open. Earlier in the morning it was certainly closed though, they all were. He went down the small wooden stairs, each step already feeling more brittle since before, and made his way to the counter.


“Hello sir, is good morning,” He greeted the innkeeper. “May I have moment?” The man turned to him.


“What can I do for you? Hungry?” He asked.


“Please, two servings, but also I have question.” Vanse leaned in closer, “who else is staying in inn right now?”


The keeper gave him a puzzled look. “What does it matter?” Vanse placed his hand on the table and slid over a small stack of coins.


“Who else,” He paused, his voice much more stern, “is staying in inn right now?” He repeated, he slid over a few more coins. “And please, two servings.” The man slowly picked up the coins and placed them under his counter. He leaned over and kept his eyes looking upstairs.


“Just you, the girl, and some big T’Odis broad who stumbled in not long after you.” He leaned back, “And the food is almost ready, I can have my wife bring it to your room when it’s done.”


Vanse turned from the innkeep and panic washed over his face. His eyes shot upstairs towards the direction of the now occupied room. She could have been anyone, but what if this woman was here for him? A Horde Knight who slipped past the gate and managed to catch up to them. The man described her as large. So could she have been wearing armor? He took a slight step back, but stopped. Asking too many questions would seem suspicious, and it’s not like he had an unlimited amount of coin either. No, his mind was made up. Justice Horde Knight or no, he couldn’t afford the risk. They were leaving.


He went back upstairs. His heart thumping in his head with every step he took closer to the open door. He glared at it while turning to his own room and grabbing the handle. For a moment he doubted himself. He believed he let paranoia get the best of him. He could look in that room and would finding nothing but a sleeping hunter or mercenary. But then an image popped into his head. The face of a T’Odis woman who would go to the ends of the planet to hunt him down for what he has done. Could it of been her? He swallowed hard at the thought. He wasn’t even sure, but the mere idea was enough for him to feel the icy hand of death on the back of his neck. He could only pray he was wrong and take whatever precautions he could. He opened the door, went inside, and nudged Maerwynn awake. She slowly stirred and looked up at him dreary eyed. He knelt down closer to her and spoke low but clearly.


“You must pack things quickly and quietly. We are leaving.”


Maerwynn felt a tinge of panic. She crawled out of bed as carefully as she could, minding her ribs, and scooped her things back into her bag. Then quickly followed Vanse out the door. He swiftly descended the stairs, and ‘B’ lined for the entrance, ignoring the innkeeper shouting to him.


“Where you off to in such a rush? You haven’t even eaten yet!” The duo unbound their horse and Vanse helped Maerwynn on. He climbed on himself and they set off.

(3 Hours later)​

The fields of Kildra were drastically different to T’Odis’ tundras and Vanse felt he could see for miles. He even took a small moment to appreciate the beauty and peacefulness of the land. The air was also getting warmer every mile they advanced. He turned slightly to Maerwynn, she sat hung over herself. One hand clutching her chest, the other his coat. Had he been too cautious? Too paranoid? She needed time to rest and heal, and he wasn’t giving it to her.


“When we arrive at next town,” he began. “I make arrangements, and we can part ways. I then cover tracks and you should be safe.” Maerwynn’s grip on Vanse tightened. She stared off at the moving ground below them.


“Okay,” she let out quietly, but loud enough to be heard.

 

[King Ad Rock]

The following was originally posted by King Ad Rock as collaboration with Orikanyo in the previous IC​

Orikanyo as

Eliza Quinn and

King Ad Rock as

Queen Suzane Hildren​

_____​

Location: Iorn, Kildra


Date: Month 6, Day 15


Time: Quarter past the eighth hour of the Morning (8:15 A.M.)

_____​

"People are really noisy today!" Yelled Eliza to the Queen


“It tends to get like this whenever my ass gets into town!” Suzane called out over the voices to her new friend with a glimmering wink. The Queen was surprisingly strong as she, more or less, yanked Eliza along, back to her carriage. As they reached the ornate wagon, a stern looking older man poked his head out of the open door. Chancellor Virin was not amused.


“We have a guest Virin, move on over!” Suzane shouted sharply at him in almost a giggle while placing a hand on his chest and shoving him back inside. The large man stumble back while finding a place for his falling backside on the seat next to Suzane. “Yes, right there Virin. Eliza will be sitting across from me.” Suzane then turned and in a theatrical manner, bowed before Eliza with her delicate hand stretched out gesturing to the cart.“Right this way madam.”


Eliza stared at Suzane for but a moment, was she really getting in the cart with THE QUEEN!?


Yes she was.


Her pride would not let her back down now! There was no getting off this runaway cart!


She plucked the hem of her tunic dainty and gave the queen a cat-like smile, the first she has flashed this whole time. "Why thank you my lady." she mirrored theatrics, finally getting into a groove on how to act with the woman. Or at least, for now. Though, the big man inside also frightened her... Well, she was told to get inside, Queen's orders right? he couldn't complain, not that he should, he should feel honored that he was sitting next to a woman who's hair is beloved by the Queen of Kildra!


She took her time to climb her way into the cart and sat her booty, a rather attractive booty might I add, upon the seat. "A good day to you sir." she flashed her smile towards Virin, not quite certain whom the hell he was.


But he looked important.


Pretty much all that mattered right now.


A mousey expression crept across the face of Queen Suzane as she watched Eliza greet Virin.


“You do not know who that is, do you?” The monarch asked while obviously trying to stifle laughter. Virin scoffed quietly and turned away from the mocking Queen and her new friend.


“Do not worry, Virin tends to try to stay out of the public eye. The noble families know him well, but that may be mostly the fault of mine. I have been told I pass over the diplomatic responsibilities of ruling a bit too much these days.” Suzane threw her hands up and sarcastically shook her head at this as if to say she did not really care.


Now that the carriage door was shut, there was a sudden small jerk inside the cabin as the driver whipped the horses back into movement. They were only moments away from coliseum. The adoring crowds were still growing by the minute and just barely being held back successfully by the Kildran Sisters and the Royal Guard. The noise was almost deafening. On top of it all was the regal horn melody that shouted one last time enthusiastically before seeming to finally finish.“It is about damn time!” Suzane exclaimed exuberantly to the rest of the cart. She could not explain the joy she felt as she realized the terrible song would not be looping anymore. While clapping her hands together excitedly like a small child, she brought her attention back to Eliza.


“Now Eliza, we only have about ten more minutes or so until we arrive. In the meantime, please tell me all about yourself!” Suzane asked cheerily while clasping Eliza’s hand yet again. “I believe I caught you saying you had sisters!?”


Virin scoffed again quietly to himself and looked out his window.


Eliza perked up when the queen asked about herself! of all people, she was the one who knew herself most right?


Save for her mother of course.


"Well, yea, I have sisters. Lots of em actually." her face bloomed slightly red at the thought, will Suzane think she was lying? "I have... 16 sisters. I'm the eleventh." she tapped the pin that sat upon her cloak. "I came to the city to sell some odds and ends and find one of them, Gracie. Wasn't anything too big, just wanted to catch up a bit. that and give her a good scorning for leaving broken hearts in her wake. Funny how having identical twins can cause me to have to deal with her previous "lovers." More like Scam victims if you ask me." she crossed her arms, looking rather unhappy with that fact.


Sixteen twins!? Surely the girl misspoke. Suzane was trying to to wrap her head around how a woman could give birth to sixteen children at once. In her imaginative mind, she pictured an older version of Eliza, standing at over seven feet and weighing over a ton; her body was engorged with the gestating weight of sixteen, yet to be born children. Suzane was doing everything in her power to not let the playful smile on her face creep any wider than it already was. She was also attempting to stifle her dainty, almost girl-like giggles. With an enthusiastic clap of her hands, she let the snickers break out. “How scandalous your sister sounds! She honestly sounds like my kind of woman!” Suzane ceased her giddy clapping and with a twinkle in her ocean blue eyes she clasped Eliza’s hand again, this time more gently. “And how jealous I am. I had always wanted a sister growing up. Unfortunately, I was born an only child to only children. Not even any cousins to play with.” She punctuated her thought with a sigh.


"Course, I'm not to mad, just worried she might cause trouble for the whole family if she catches the eye of a guy who just won't quit. the fool." she huffed before going back to Suzane's question. "As for me, Eliza Quinn, I'm a... Well it has many names. Adventurer, ruin delver. I try to keep to titles that don't paint it in a bad light. I mean I don't go in and break stuff, lost artifacts are worth thousands- In lost knowledge! Not to mention the ruins themselves are beautiful at times." she looked quite happy thinking about ruins. "Lately I haven't had much in the ways of work, so it's been slim pickings..." she finished with a sigh before remembering something.


"...It seems I've left my cart behind in all of this hustle and bustle. Is it possible we can get somebody to fetch it? Petunia might get lonely." she asked Suzane, looking a tad worried for her travelling companion. "I.. I don't mean to overstep of course... Sorry.." she remembered she was in the presence of the queen and shrunk once more.


Suzane perked up even more than she had been at Eliza’s words. Her cheery face switched to a more a serious and determined emotion. “Oh deary me! Of course! And you stop that silly apologizing right this instant.” Without any sense of decorum, Suzane reached over and whacked the arm of a distracted Virin with the back of her hand. Startled, the man shook to attention with annoyance clearly on his visage.


Perhaps forgetting they were amongst a citizen, he responded thus,


“What!?”


“Do not ‘what’ me, Virin!” Her tone suggested a playfulness between the two. “Tell Sister Ysolde to send someone, perhaps Bella, to go and secure my new friend’s cart and…” Suzane blinked a few times showing evident confusion while realizing Eliza had spoken a name. “Who is Petunia?” She asked.


Eliza blushed and scratched her chin slightly, a tad bit embarrassed by the whole thing she spoke with a nervous laugh. "He-he... He’s my Mule, careful though! Tell him I sent you before you try and lead him somewhere! he gets nasty if you're rude!" she warned the man before placing her hands on her lap.


This woman... Was rather kind... Perhaps she COULD let down her guard?


Somewhat anyways.


Suzane began giggling again. A mule! She had thought she had whisked the poor girl away from someone in all the excitement. “Yes, tell them to make sure that Eliza’s cart, goods, belongings, and mule, petunia are all accounted for and guarded. Have them carefully bring her things to the Coliseum, and to be extra careful with Petunia. She needs to be told that Eliza sent them” She smiled brightly at her chancellor, knowing this request would aggravate him so. Virin sneered at her before opening his own window to the carriage to bark the orders. Once finished, he angrily slammed the window shut.


"Umm, I forget, where are we going again?" Eliza asked the older woman, tapping a finger on her bottom lip as she cocked her head to the right, this was the Quinn sister's thing. Ever one of them did it, a strange oddity that is cute but still interesting to note if there's more than one in the room.


Suzane sighed out loud, yet again in an overly exaggerated manner before answering. “Unfortunately, before we can feast upon the delightfully delicious dishes of Iorn, we must make an appearance at the tournament itself.” Suzane sat back in her luxuriously cushioned seat as the carriage jostled along on it’s way. “I believe we are running a bit late on the fisticuffs tournament. I do not know how you feel about such… festivities.” She crinkled her nose at the thought. “Myself? I had my fill of such barbaric nonsense years ago.”


The Queen was of course referring to the War of Royalty. She had witnessed quite a bit of bloodshed and combat with her own eyes during those four years. Much of it was by her own choice. As a ruler who was asking men to fight for her and her son, she would not willfully avert her eyes from the death that would come from it.


“But alas, as the Queen regent, I must make my appearance. Tradition, right Virin?” Suzane asked with a raised brow. Virin turned from the window and nodded in tired agreement. “Nothing a noble enjoys more…” He spoke with softness for the first time.


“Your majesty! We have arrived at the Coliseum!” The carriage driver shouted from outside the carriage. Suzane clapped her hands together once again at the news. She shifted towards Eliza with another warm smile on her thin lips. It was amazing how little wrinkles the woman had accumulated over the years. The woman did not look a day over thirty, and her playful happiness that she seemed to had gained with her companion made her appear even younger. “Perhaps we will get to gaze upon some handsome faces… and bodies!” Suzane let out a full blown laugh at the end of this, more forced than her natural giggles from before. She winked friskily at Eliza and took her petite hand before opening her door. Virin opened his own and slipped out before standing at attention and waiting for the Queen. “Have you ever been to the Coliseum of Iorn?” She asked Eliza as they made their exit into the bright Kildran day.


"Ohohoh~! bodies you say! Wait, you mean living ones right?" Eliza asked before being dragged out of the carriage. "I just visited before you came actually, didn't go inside but... Well, you know how big crowd draws attention right?' she flashed a bright smile back to the woman. Perhaps this would turn out okay? She'd have dinner, perhaps have a nice nap in super comfortable beds and all will be well! But.. when will this end? What will draw this to a close?


Who knew? She didn't, may as well enjoy this while it lasts!!

 

[King Ad Rock]

The following was originally posted by Deathchart in the previous IC​

Another day. Another sack of coin.

_____​

12:30 P.M., Month 6, Day 15, 369

Nevos, Kildra.

Uma Drefa

_____​

The trip back from the bakery wasn't a terribly long one. There was plenty of wildlife to look at and the weather that day was nice. Eventually, Uma saw the city he called home and made his way to the stables. He tied the ropes of the horse back onto the old


worn out post beside it's pen. Uma made his way inside and informed the stable hand that he had returned the horse and then began heading back to his store. The crunch of the dirt under his boots made Uma feel back into his normal self. It was a weird day and if he wanted to sell anything and not look like a rookie merchant he was going to need get back into his normal state. He made it back to his shop and began setting up. The panels on the side were the first part of the display that had to be opened. The rusted hinges always managed to get stuck and took some effort to get loose. The next part was getting the counter displays ready. Uma moved to the back and picked up a pair of old cushioned glass display cases. The ornate painting and gold finishes got people's eye and brought them in. It was also really good for displaying his more expensive Items. He placed the cases onto the old wooden countertop and went back into the storage area.


Uma turned the knob and pushed his way into the cluttered room, the aroma of spices and fragrances hitting attacking his nose. Luckily Uma has gotten used to this attack and could handle it. He moved towards the back and fetched a small metal box. It had an ornate pattern on it that went around the entire outer section, even extending onto the legs and underside. The gold hinges contrasted the dark black metal material. On the front, three different locks kept even the most determined criminals out. Two of the locks were real giving their unlocked access to the objects inside but the third lock was a fake one, made to lock down the box completely and required a special key to unlock. This was what was commonly referred to as a kings box, mainly for it's ornate design and complicated locking systems. Uma had picked one up from a master craftsman in T'Odis. It wasn't cheap but it hasn't been broken into once yet so Uma sees it as a solid investment. Uma pulled a keyring from his belt and began shifting the different keys around until he found the correct one. Uma unlocked the lockbox and grabbed the different rings and necklaces from the inside. He then closed the box and relocked it, placing it back into its original position.


Uma moved to the front of the store and began placing the assorted jewelry inside the glass display cases, making sure to arrange them in a nice orderly fashion. He liked to keep the gold items with the other gold items and tended to keep the more expensive pieces in the front. The last thing Uma had to do was set up his price board and he was ready to start making some money. He bent down and grabbed the worn out decorative wooden board from under the table and hung it from the left side panel. The sign read:

Open Now


Cloth (2gp per foot)


Wood (5gp per log)


Iron (10gp per pound)


Gold (10KP = 1gp)



(Ask for specific/rare items)​

The old sign needed repainted soon and the paint was hard to read from afar. Uma wanted to get it done by an artist in hopes to get one thats a little more fancy and eye catching. Uma's store was ready, everything was set up. The different jars of alchemical powders and ingredients filled the side panels and the counter had its usual arrangement of a scale, the two display cases, a dagger placed to scare off any hooligans, and a Tral-el skull. A hour or two passed and a few takers stopped by and bought some basic things. The occasional pound of iron or a couple feet of cloth. Nothing too exiting happened until a small child came up to Uma's stall. The boy couldn't have been more than seven years old. Uma looked down onto the boy and asked him if he needed anything. The boy responded by asking Uma if he would be willing to buy a ring he had. Uma laughed and obliged to look at it to entertain the boy. To Uma's surprise the boy pulled out an ornate golden ring with a shining red ruby out of his small pocket. The ring seemed to be hand crafted and the ruby was authentic. Uma took a closer look and started to wonder, how did this boy get a hold of such a ring. It couldn't have come out of nowhere and no one in their right mind would give a child such a ring. Uma kept investigating the ring and just as he was about to ask the little boy where he had gotten it, a loud sound of glass shattering came from Uma's storage area.


Uma knew what was going on here and he had to give the duo props, the boy played a really good distraction and if Uma had been any old merchant he wouldn't have had a glass bottle above the back entrance of his store. Unluckily for the boys that were attempting to steal from him, he was not a stranger to these things. Instead of doing what the boys expect from a merchant who realizes that he is being robbed, like running back into the storage room, Uma jumps over the wooden counter of his shop and makes his way towards the back only to be run into by the mastermind of this little act. It was another small boy, about fourteen or so. This one was a little more rough around the edges. The odor and grime gave away the boys' true identities. They were homeless thieves. Uma had dealt with situations similar to this before and grabbed the boy by the collar. He drug the older boy over to the younger one and sat them down.


"I know that you both know this is wrong and dangerous, so I'm not going to waste more time ranting about how you shouldn't do this."


Uma placed the ring onto his shop's counter. "Now, I won't tell the guards about this, but I am going to buy the ring off of you two. The ring is with about 600 gold pieces. You will get four hundred" Uma grabbed his coin bag from his belt and began counting out the money. "Now you boys don't have your flashy object to distract people with anymore, and I would suggest that you find some real ways to make money. Now go." With that final statement the boys took their money and went off with their heads in shame. Uma new that with that much money, they should be able to get some food and buy some decent clothes for the both of them. Hopefully they'll be responsible and find a job but Uma knew that it wasn't his problem anymore and moved back into his store, placing the newly acquired ring into one of the display cases.


The rest of the day went off without a hitch. Uma managed to sell a majority of his goods and purchased some from others to keep his supplies up and ready for the next day of sales. Uma closed down shop, putting away everything into its usual place and locking up the main section of the store. Uma moved into his bedroom and lit the candle by the bed. The flame emanating warmth into the room. He moved over to the dressers and began to change into his nightwear. Inside his wardrobe his hand grazed the cold blade of his father's blade. Uma flinched at the drastic temperature difference and started to remember the cold of his home back in T'Odis. He wanted to go back but every time he got close to preparing the trip he talked himself out of it. There were just too many bad memories. Uma finished up dressing and fell into his bed, the creaks and whines sounding like it could collapse at any time. Uma blew the candle out and sat in the dark and silence. Uma had a long day waiting for him and he knew he was going to have to use even negotiation tactic he was taught to free Lilly from her owners. With that final though Uma began to drift away into sleep.

 

[King Ad Rock]

The following was originally posted by Gradous13 in the previous IC

Gradous13
as

Reine

_____
​

Location: Reshinall Village, Northern Kildra


Date: Month 6, Day 15


Time: Half past the 11th Hour of the Morning

_____
​

Reine awoke slowly, she sat up, gave a large yawn and stretched for a minute. It took a moment to take in her surroundings, Reine began to recall the past week and got up accompanied by another stretch and yawn. Reine froze in place once realizing that she had slept longer than normal. The window that sat behind the bed where she had fallen asleep flew open, her head poked out the window. Reine judged by the sun's position that it was close to ten in the morning. "Pahh glam..." ("Well then...") she muttered closing the window. There was drink and food on the table in the center of the room, the cooked meat had gone cold but was still good to eat which Reine did and was surprised by the quality seeing as she was only in a small town. After downing the drink, which was sweet and seemingly non alcoholic, Reine made her way down to the main floor.


The manager approached her, "Did you sleep well, miss?" He asked, giving her a smile, Reine gave the man a suspicious look as she wasn't accustomed to such greetings.


"Pleg bu iuo pemg?" ("What do you want?") She asked with a firm voice as she stood tall over the short man,


"Uhhh, you see there was a T'Odis man asking-" Reine cut him off by grabbing his shirt collar with both hands, lifted him off the ground about three feet and slammed him against the wall,


"BASKRYDA LYN." ("DESCRIBE HIM.") Reine threatened, her tone was extremely aggressive yet calm as she wasn't going to raise her voice...


A wicked and sadistic grin grew upon Reine's face after the man described the other T'Odis, along with the woman who accompanied him, "Plara..." ("Where...") Reine began with a changed tone, less aggressive but now quite vile "...byb glai tu?" ("...did they go?")


"S-south, they went south! By horse!" The Inn keeper exclaimed in fear, Reine paused before she dropped him to the ground only to lean over and get into his face, making the Kildran even more frightened.


"Iuo lefa e lursa ias?" ("You have a horse yes?")


"Y-yes, I have a few."


"Uma lombrab emb vyvgi tuhbvur iuor dasg uma pygl sebbgha." ("One hundred and fifty gold for your best one with saddle")


"That...that is a deal." the man said with a hint of hesitation. The Inn keeper took the offered gold, not wanting to get on the woman's bad side.


The Inn keeper lead Reine into a large stable behind the Inn and presented a draft horse to Reine,


"He is young, about two years old and well trained, he should be a good fit for you, judging by your sizes, just please take care of him" he said with conviction, Reine gave him fifty extra gold pieces and grabbed a saddle off of a rack "Bumg purri edoug gla lursa, glai eramg wauwha" ("Don't worry about the horse, they aren't people" Reine said mounting the horse.


Reine took it slow leaving the town and picked the pace up a bit once on the main road. It was another beautiful day out and the ground was dry meaning it would be a little harder to find tracks, there was a couple towns south, another factor that could also make it more difficult to find the man Reine has spent so long to find, now she was closer than ever to bring the bastard down. Reine looked down at the horse she now rode, the large work horse had a coat very similar to an appaloosa, he was covered in a sea of of grey/blue, brown and beige spots. She brushed it's mane with her right hand and gently drew the palm of her hand down the horse's neck, "Pygl iour lahw, e nornbarar pyhh vymb lys togs owum gla truomb, emb Y en tregavoh vur iuor lahw....Kemfes" ("With your help, a murderer will find his guts upon the ground, and I am grateful for your help....Canvas")

 

[King Ad Rock]

The following was originally posted by Zooks in the previous IC​

Zooks as

Rufus and Lilly​

_____​

Time: 12:30 P.M.,


Date: Month 6, Day 15, 369

Location: Nevos, Kildra

_____​

Rufus was riding at a very fast pace through the Kildran plains and back towards his Estate. He felt the wind whistling through his hair as he kept his arm securely around the T-Odis girl, hoping the fast ride wouldn't scare her too much. The Lord's son had developed a somewhat protective coating around the girl, as best as he was able to, and wanted to make sure she was safe and well. Not held here against her will as a high-priced slave anymore. If he had to run with her, then so be it. He already had ideas to get her away but it may not even come to that.. if only his Father was reasonable. Perhaps he could settle for releasing the girl although he held as much hope for that as his Father actually accepting who he was and who he loved. Which was to say very little.


His eyes darkened and he screamed through the gate at the Estate's high cobblestone walls, pulling his black stallion into a rear and holding the girl tightly so she might not tumble off. And almost before the horse had lowered, the Lord's son had half leaped from the creatures back and had his arms extended to Lilly. Lilly meanwhile still had her eyes clenched fearfully closed but once the horse had finally stopped, she peeked a blue eye open to peer down to Rufus with his arms outstretched and gladly slid into them as he placed her onto the ground. Almost the second her feet touched the ground she took a huge breath in and out as she relaxed down and smiled up to him. Rufus slid his arm around Lilly to keep her close, while grasping the bridal to the horse and leading him back to the Stables and a nearby passing stable boy. "Listen, this horse needs a big feed and lots of water, we traveled some distance in a very short time." The stable boy nodded and was already heading off with the horse while Rufus started to lead the white haired girl back through the cobblestone main-way and stepped into the Estate's huge Castle.


Lilly followed Rufus without a complaint, simply blinking up and to the side at him, wondering why he had such an enigmatic look on his face. He seemed almost angry but she knew that anger was not directed towards her. The girl simply clasped her hands gently as she remained silent and followed along, only when they finally stopped she noticed she was before his bedchambers now and almost instantly her body stiffened in his arm. Rufus glanced down finally as he noticed the girl tensing and gave her a warm smile, stepping forward to place his hands on her shoulders gently as he leaned in a portion. "Remember what I told you Lilly? You are to stay with me, you will be safer this way. I promise I will not touch you without your permission again. You may have been bought as a slave, but for me, your my Friend now.. I'll make sure no one hurts you. Do you understand?"


Lilly stared up to Rufus as bits and pieces of his words filtered through, sentences copied from his earlier conversations meant she could more easily identify with the context. She nodded her head sheepishly as the Lord led her inside after opening the doors. "Yes. Will stay. Will wait for you." Nodding her head gently, before she slowly peeled off the very expensive looking necklace that his Father had given her to wear, putting it into Rufus's hand. "Take this." Offering him a warm and kind-heart smile as she cupped one of his hands with both of her own and shook it gently. Reassuringly. Before the little T-Odis girl disappeared into his room to get changed. Once she left Rufus turned to the two nearest Guards with a look close to unbridled rage. "If I hear a single person has entered this Chamber without my express permission, I will see both of your heads on a spike out the front of this Estate. Do Not Cross Me." The guards straightened and clanked their spears along their chest plates. Then Rufus left them both and strode through the hallways with that same angry look on his face. Most serving staff simply took one glanced and moved aside, or rather jumped aside in a half panic and before long Rufus came before his Father's throne room. Here two Guard were holding spears crossed to block his path. "I'm sorry your Lordship you can not enter, the Lord of the Estate requests-"


They didn't get to far into their statements before Rufus had approached the one who spoke, getting close enough so his nose was almost touching and his teeth were bared. "This is my Estate as much as my Father's, I request access to all of it's room and any who dare enter into it. Now you have five seconds to allow me passage, or I'll have to suffer the worst fate for a Traitor or a Enemy to the Throne....." His voice level which made his words only echo further. The guards glanced to one another and then hurriedly walked aside. Rufus didn't even allow them to open the door for him, he had already thrown his weight into the Door, throwing it open and making the hinges groan wearily before the heavy sound of his angry steps echoed the Throne room itself.


"Father! I wish to speak with you.


"Now!"

 

[King Ad Rock]

The following was originally posted by King Ad Rock as a collaboration with CupAndCough in the previous IC


@King Ad Rock as Sefariu Setaro


@CupAndCough as Aloysius Amom-Apophis


( @King Ad Rock takes over as Aloysius halfway through post)

_____​

Location: Coliseum of Iorn, Iorn, Kildra


Date: Month 6, Day 15


Time: Half past the twelfth hour of morning (12:30 P.M.)

_____


​

Sefariu Setaro stood before the combatant’s entrance to the coliseum grounds, awaiting his introduction. Light flickered through the cracks of the wooden door, just lightly illuminating his darkly olive skin. The smell of dingy sweat with a slight hint of blood hung in the air of the tiny waiting room, filling his nostrils. The scent was a familiar one that put the young, and somewhat recently titled noble’s mind at ease. It was the scent of close quarters combat. One that Sef knew all too well.


Although his mind was clear and calm, his muscles were tense with anticipation. His dark eyebrows were furrowed in a look of heavy determination. He was there to prove himself to the people of Kildra. To make a name for himself and his family past that of the title of “Nomasdae Mercenary”. The older Kildran houses looked down their noses upon them and the other new houses titled due to their participation in the war on the Queen’s behalf, and this was putting it lightly. Their hatred for them was no secret. In these fleeting moments, Sef briefly pictured in his mind his love, Rufus.


It was Sef’s idea himself to enter the tournament in an attempt to bring glory and acceptance to his family’s name. His father, Tukasulu Setaro, had different plans for integrating them into high-class society that involved marrying off his younger sister to one of the other Noble Lord’s sons.

Sef could hear the roaring chants of the crowds in the stands. In the recent moments, they had exploded from a dull noise to an ear blistering cheer. It was now obvious that Queen had finally made her arrival to witness the tournament bouts. Just in time for his second match.


Sef had dominated the poor fellow who was his opponent earlier in the day. Right as the match was started, the foolish young Kildran squire had rushed towards him in a clumsy stance. Sef waited for him, calm and ready. When his opponent finally came within proper distance, Sef let out a precise high kick aimed at his head with ferocious speed before the man could strike with his own attack. The vicious blow made contact with the side of his face and made a sickeningly loud slap sound as the squire crumbled to the ground in a limp pile. And as quickly as the match began, it was over as the unconscious young man was dragged away by possible companions.


The Setaro Scorpion, as he was known during the war, had hoped that the clearly untrained man would recover fully, but he was not here to play games. He would take out his next opponent just as quickly and without hesitation if the fool let him. As if on cue with his thoughts, the tournament announcer finally boomed out from far off on the other side of the doors,


“Lords and Ladies of Kein! Please rise and welcome Queen Suzane Hildren! The Lord Azae has blessed us with her presence just as the second round of the fisticuffs tournament is about to begin! How lucky we are to witness this special occasion!”


Sef had known this was coming once the grating sounds of the looping horns of Iorn began their seemingly never-ending song. This was good. The queen would be in attendance of his fight, and regardless of her personal opinion on such activities, tradition would have her react accordingly. The noble houses of Kildra would witness this, and if he continued to dominate his matches, then they would have no choice but to give him and his family the respect he believed they deserved.


It was almost time. The doors would be opened for him at any moment now. An iron clad guard slowly stepped out from the room by Sef’s right and proceeded to ask the awaiting warrior if he was ready. Sef responded with only a short nod, keeping his eyes focused on the doors ahead of him. The tension in the room was palpable, but Sef thrived on every second of it, using it to psych himself up for the events that were about to come. He had watched his next opponent, the fighter known as Wyrm, in his first bout and knew this would be no easy task. The mysterious combatant had easily taken out a Parshumian monk with a body size that rivaled most T’Odis.


As the guard pulled on a chain dangling from a pulley system, the doors before Sef slowly pulled apart, allowing the intensely bright sun to wash its light into dark and damp waiting chambers. The doors had been blocking the wall of noise that was now hitting Sefariu with a tremendous force. Every blaring voice was melding into one another. With a raise of his arm, Sef shielded his eyes from the glare of the sunlight while his eyes adjusted. The sight his eyes took in once they could was something Sef had not seen before in his life. Thousands of people were packed to the brim in the stands of the coliseum, screaming at the tops of their lungs. He had never witnessed so many people gathered in one place; at least not for peaceful and enjoyable reasons.


“It is now time to begin the second round of the fisticuffs tournament! Our first contenders are two tenacious fighters who made quick work of their first round opponents! The first fighter being let onto the grounds, hailing from Boar’s Den, is Sefariu Setaro of House Setaro! Otherwise known as the ‘Black Rose of Boar’s Den’!”


Sef stopped dead in his tracks. He could not believe what his ears had just heard. Did they really just call him that? Assuming the announcer did not know the origin of the title, he shook off the awkward pause and stepped forward from the waiting room and onto the arena grounds. His darkly brown eyes slowly made their way over the immense crowds that surrounded him on all sides. They soon fell on the noble booths that were built high into the coliseum walls to get a vantage view of the festivities. Each booth had its House banner hung from its railing.


The largest of the booths was located on the North side and was reserved for both the Iornia and royal families. And there she was, in all her spoke of beauty, Queen Suzane. She was standing by the side of the tall and lean Kindrel Iornia while greeting the tournament spectators with a wave. Sef also recognized Chancellor Virin and General Sindor in the booth, but was not familiar with the short red headed woman by the Queen’s other side. She was possibly a handmaiden, although she did not traditionally dress like one.


Sef wanted to call out over the crowd and make a grand gesture to the Queen before the bout commenced, but the announcer introducing his opponent stopped him.


“And his opponent…





"...Who is ascending after his last round, The Wyrm!"


The area in which Aloysius sat was motionless, nary a sight of the one known as Wyrm. A name that should be familiar to a few members of the audience, and for his opponent--something that would me a heavy reminder of what he came from. Of war and blood, of land war-gotten and sword-gained. It will not be a friendly one.


Aloysius sat in his alone--idly fiddling with his fingers. The man just finished snorting the air like a truffle-sensing hog. Intoxicated by a subtle smell, which was more nostalgic to him than the fight that birthed it. He was entranced. Captivated, what brought a man to see such strange interest in the horridness of life? Aloysius peered at his fingertips--the blood of the Parshuman still fresh. Still wet. Still fragrant and vivid of sensory qualities that Aloysius believed that was propelling him t achieving a small burst of enlightenment.


Aloysius, who peered into his palm and fingertips so enthralled at the infinite wonders of the red cells he could reap more from the next opponent. Aloysius half-heartedly listened to the announcer, disinterested with the noise from the outside world. However an ear had pricked up, catching the name of a familiar soul and with that he smiled


It was in those few moments he heard the call. Wyrm. He knew it was not subtle. The title was to be more of a message, a reminder. This land was not unfamiliar to him--and one who brokered a war he once took part in and called this land hers. This connection drew him here, perhaps like a stray lingering around the hand which fed him scraps.


"The Black Rose of Boar's Den" , Aloysius pondered the name his opponent with a strange sense of intrigue, "O' what self-respecting nobility let's their progeny play in the muck with creatures like us?" Aloysius said aloud as he peered forth from his holding area. The sound of a man coming to his feet was heard as he clutched onto the door that held him.


"With men nary a sense of remorse? With ilk o' ours that enjoy our fair share of bloodshed--perhaps that's where children o' the Boar were meant to thrive.." Aloysius had begun to walk towards the entrance, a single foot appeared. Aloysius had dressed himself to nothing but simple pant linens. As the light began to hit his body, the plethora of scars appeared upon his body took shape. They were a white tome that uplifted the flesh it was bored upon, clashing with the distinct olive-tan colors of his skin. As his face was soon taken by the light, a familiar face was staring at Sef, a visage that bore a malicious intent behind its crocodile smile.


"..In the muck, with creatures like us" Aloysius proclaimed with arms stretched, vast and wide they were as it felt to him that he was giving a sermon for Anahit herself, about to preach how she blessed him with another worthy test of mettle. "It seems that the Setaro name is one I cannot escape after that blessed war, isn't that right whelp?" Aloysius spoke with such familiarity to Sefariu, "How is that aging father of yours? Coddled by his riches?"


Aloysius looked forward to Sefariu with a smirk, one the combed across the hairs of his face, "You ought to tell me what brings you here--Tired of the nobility your family vied for? Perhaps you should join my company, if you seek such strife and hardships that make a life worth living for, we could fight in the same glorious fire-fields our men used to create in that Anahit-blessed war--I believe you'd be a fun acquisition, yes?"


The dark brown haired man slowly walked forward--body adorned in defined musculature and battle wounds from old to recent. His enthusiasm roared to a few of his "company" in the stands. Empty Ouroboros men who came to watch their leader fight--They cheered for their leader, some almost the look of religiosity upon their faces. Their call for battle was so intense and rowdy that they carved a little part of the stands for themselves with their ferocity and blood-lust. Aloysius paid them no mind.


He turned to his side witnessing a wondrous sight. Queen Suzane. His face turned to twisted. malediction-carrying, amusement. It was a passing glance. Soon Aloysius began to peace together a story in his head.


Was the Sefariu here for the Queen?


"I wonder if I beat you near death in front o' her--What kind of favor I would gain." Aloysius hissed towards Sef as he turned to him with a sly grin, trying to rile him. "I want you to take this fight seriously, Black Rose--we both know what shall come about if you don't." A self-pleasured, melodious, snicker came forth as me alluded to killing the once-mercenary, now-noble opponent.


Aloysius looked for a moment at the Queen. He was not awed by her beauty. He was not enthralled by her grace. Not even tantalized by the thought of her acknowledgement. However as he peered at her with inhuman eyes there was no sense of comradery, or acknowledgement for her crown, respect for her grace and not even a love for her beauty. It was a moment of that of a assaulter who attacked out of dominance, and not of lust or love, gave to their would be victim and with that the devout-follower bowed, his intentions made clear. He was not, to any noble really, a comrade or one that gave devotion. He had one lord. And that was his will to live by his desires against the strife of the world. Anahit came closest to that idea.


“I believe it is time I skip the intrigue of speeches and conversation ..." He commented, the sound of bone clacking against bone echoed as he methodically and to pop the air with his joints, a sign of his body becoming enthralled in the bout ..."and refresh her memory. And perhaps yours? O' the war we were blessed by...


Aloysius had begun to take his stance in his modest attire. Aloysius wanted to feel this battle. Feel it upon his skins as wounds and welts. Feel it for the blessing it was, and how amazing that boon was. As air swelled with vocal winds and the arena clamorous with chatter of the attendants, Aloysius Amon-Apophis had begun to blacken out the world. his pupils dilating into dark black circles--devouring the vivid color of his eyes. Darkness. That was all he could see, save for one being before him. All that focus, it came upon Sefariu, the intensity rose as even his mocking smirk was replace with an agape jaw which bore fangs and panting tongue.


Open palms became claw-like. Fingers curled into hooks that sought rend any foe asunder into nothing but viscera. Tendon and flesh tightened, clutching together like links in chain-mail. Aloysius had taken his stance. With air palpable with malice and an overwhelming ambition to assert one’s will, Aloysius stood, poised, a waiting for the call of battle..

_____​

Sef had watched carefully from his side of the fighting grounds as his opponent made his methodical entrance to the announcer’s introduction. It appeared as if he was saying something out loud as he exited the holding area. The crowd surrounding them was in an uproar, caused by the combination of the Queen’s arrival and the anticipation for the beginning of this bout, drowning out the approaching warrior’s words. His arms were outstretched to the crowd in a theatrical manner.


Sef took it all in slowly, every individual face, every individual cheer and cry, before allowing himself to give his full attention to his opponent.


There was something about the similarly statured man that brought a sense of familiarity to Sef. Did he somehow know this fighter named “Wyrm” from some point in his past? He was a decently well-built man dressed only in simple linen pants, with a dangerously swift and deadly looking physique that was covered almost head-to-toe in scars. The man’s face bore an intent that Sef had recognized plenty of times before.


Then the confidant taunting came Sef’s way in rapid succession. His voice had a sickeningly smug ring to it, and was almost melodic as well as the speaker sang these words out to Sef. The taunts were strange and almost poetic in their own way.


"It seems that the Setaro name is one I cannot escape after that blessed war, isn't that right whelp?" There was now no longer any question of if Sef and this man were somehow familiar with each other, although Sef could still not place who he was. "How is that aging father of yours? Coddled by his riches?"


And with that inquiry, Sef now knew exactly whom it was that stood before him, the leader of the Ouroboros Mercenaries, Alosious Amon-Apophis. His features were now more visible in the high sun of the early afternoon. Almost too subtle to notice, Sef’s fist clenched tightly and his eyes narrowed for just a moment at the realization that this man was his next opponent. He had heard countless stories from his father and the other mercs in the Setaro Blades of the so-called “War Poet”.


It was during the war that his father had become acquainted with Aloysius, both leading their own respective mercenary bands. As a young soldier, Sef had only seen glimpses of him during planning and battle. It was his father, Tukasulu, who had the displeasure of having to work and strategize side-by-side with this man. Sef vividly recalled the warning his father gave him after their second or third meeting,


“That man is vicious, unremorseful, and possibly completely insane. He is the epitome of what you do not want to become on the battlefield, Sefariu. Remember these words if you ever find yourself in his presence.” And as his father said, these words echoed through the still calm mind of Sefariu as Aloysius continued his slow pacing. The smirk that he wore was a snide one that sent a feeling of pure detestment down the spine of Sef. Wiping it off was going to be pleasurable. Sef remained unmoving and allowed Aloysius to approach further.

"You ought to tell me what brings you here--Tired of the nobility your family vied for? Perhaps you should join my company, if you seek such strife and hardships that make a life worth living for, we could fight in the same glorious fire-fields our men used to create in that Anahit-blessed war--I believe you'd be a fun acquisition, yes?"


“Anahit.”


Sefariu’s father had mentioned that the man was devoutly religious. Something about him being chosen by the Nomasdae warrior God to create war. Another delusion his father called it. Unlike most Nomasdae, Tukasulu Setaro was a Non-believer who looked down on the belief of religion and those who dedicated and shaped their lives to it.


Sef did not respond the taunting inquiries of Alosyius and instead began slowly stretching his neck from side-to-side while never breaking his glance from the man. Aloysius appeared to glance as the royal booth before continuing his barbs,


"I wonder if I beat you near death in front o' her--What kind of favor I would gain? I want you to take this fight seriously, Black Rose--we both know what shall come about if you don't." This last jab was followed by a rhythmic chortle that was probably intended to insult the young fighter, but Aloysius’ attempts at shaking Sef with his words and mannerism were not working. Sef chose to still not respond to him, only standing motionless with eyes looking the fighter over cautiously. His lips pursed showing just a slight annoyance, if anything.


“I believe it is time I skip the intrigue of speeches and conversation …” Aloysius spoke as he cracked the joints in his knuckles.


“It’s about damn time.” Sef thought to himself.


"and refresh her memory. And perhaps yours? O' the war we were blessed by... " These were Aloyisus’ final words as he got into a ready stance. The look of enjoyment that he had just moments before was quickly washed away and replaced with a bloodthirsty scowl.


“Well you certainly do enjoy the sound of your own voice, don’t you?” Sef retorted at last while slowly spreading his feet shoulder-width apart, his feet dragging the bare, soft earth with them. His knees bent just slightly as his arms raised, his right slightly higher than his left, in his own unique stance. His palms were open and facing the open blue skies of Kildra. The volume of the crowd began to rise steadily in a fervor of anticipation.


Sef did not need any speech or fancy words to assert his presence in the arena. With a flick of his wrist and index finger, he motioned for Aloysius to make the first strike…


A gust of dirt, sand and ill-hailing wind exploded forth from the ground as Aloysius's feet left the earth. Is was in the split moment of his flight that his eyes locked on the Black Rose, they flared with the qualities reminiscent of a madman, while his face bore no such enjoyment--in fact it was as if it was keenly focused and aware of the younger Setaro. His face empty of emotion, eyes of green-jade clad in maddening luster and polish. The way the structure of his form moved whilst gliding through the air was a serpent through the waters of the sea. Fluid. Consistent. Powerful.


"GOOOOOOOOOORRRRRRAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAH!”


A loud, booming roar came forth. A hark to his title as the Khasmin Roar. It echoed with such inhumanity that it provide doubt to what lied nestled in the flesh of Aloysius. Shaking some attendents to their very core. It was as if hundreds of Tral-el began to roar in unison--a desert of rage nestled with the ribs of Aloysius.


It was as if his charge built power each forward motion he took, muscles churning out primal, but honed, nature--yet suddenly from the haze of motion he came from--a heavy, stream-setting, claw crashed down upon Sefariu, the air whistling as it came to sight. It was a beastly claw, not that of a human--it could not possible had been, it was with such power, such malediction, and honest bloodlust that revealed a horrifyingly empty true nature that it had to be that of a beast. A monster. It was something so unerring to this fact that it was accompanied more of it's kind, furthering this truth with evidence of its existence. An onslaught of claws, an arsenal barrage of a monster had followed the first strike--like outstretched arms. Such wicked appendages drew to a disgusting maw that sought to devour the once ally in war..


Something had change in Aloysius--it was not the callous and lax nature he had with Guan. It was far different from the moments of arrogance and sickening sadism that follow before--an ambitious impetus, one of motive, was apparent in Aloysius came forth from the controlled strikes flairing from the man's presence. Refined, but savage. Contradictory in thought, a fatal attraction in form. It was of a glimpse of something else. The taunts deferred and negging dismissed had realized something.


Not too far from a spurned harasser, not too alike of a rogue cast aside--but it was starkly different in a single way from these idea. The lack of displeasure. Never once did Aloysius show displeasure in Sefariu's refrain and complete dismissal of his taunting. An alternate path had to be taken....

_____​

And in an instant the match had officially begun. Aloysius wasted no time and exploded forward as if propelled by the powerful cheers of the spectators themselves. He moved towards the static Sef at an alarming speed, his legs pumping his feet down into the dirt of the arena floor causing clouds of dust to kick up behind him. Sef admired the flawless form of the supposed madman as he raced closer with every passing of a millisecond. The young noble’s exceptional eyesight zoned in on the now almost inhuman face of his opponent. There was no emotion visible to read, but a glimmer in his eye hinted at the darkest of intents.


"GOOOOOOOOOORRRRRRAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAH" Aloysius let out a roar like some kind of hellish beast. This now cemented for Sef the opinion by his father that the Empty Ouroboros leader was a madman. Maybe it was some type of intimidation tactic, one that would not work on rattling the fighter.


Then, the Basilisk as he was also known, was upon Sefariu with lightning fast blows. So great was the speed that his limbs were nothing but a blur of motion. Aloysius’ hands were formed in a peculiar manner to create unique strikes that entered Sef’s personal space. These were not the strikes of someone looking to start the match with light sparring. They were delivered with a sheer ferociousness that suggested he wished to end the bout as quickly as possible.


With an instinctual reaction, Sef was able to deflect the majority of the volley with windmill movements from his own limbs, connecting his wrists with Aloysius’. But unfortunately Sef could not match the unrelenting speed of Aloysius, and the final two blows connected with Sef’s jaw and collarbone with a shocking amount of strength behind them. The force of the connection caused Sef’s angular chin to jerk to the right. He could feel his bottom teeth tear deeply into his lip causing the familiar taste of copper blood filled his mouth. He stumbled backwards just one step, but caught his balance with trained swiftness.


There could be no hesitation with this deadly man. There would be no time to pause and evaluate the situation in this fight. Sef had to let the memories worked long and deep into his muscles take over. It was time to retaliate. He would show this “Wyrm” one of the many ways he had earned the title, “The Setaro Scorpion”. Taking place in just a split second after Aloysius’ connected strikes, Sef threw his right leg backwards while shifting all the weight to his left. In a fluid motion, Sef bent his torso over and swung his foot up the length of his back in an amazingly acrobatic display. His leg was mimicking the stinger of a scorpion in what Sef had named, “The Scorpion Kick”. The stretch that was needed to pull off such a unique kick seemed surreal in its success.


The maneuver was made possible by years of training, intricate stretching, and an innate limberness that his father and brother did not possess. It’s unorthodox execution was intended to catch the opponent off-guard. Sef’s foot soared up the length of his arched spine and came over the back of his bowed head, aiming straight for Aloysius’ face.


A significant slam reached Aloysius, an astoundingly limber foot met an equally wildly beast. The barrage turned to a pause. A roar to a dull and steady breath. Bashed, his forehead bled--the foot still firmly planted onto his face. The foot spanned the length of his face, if not longer. It masked the emotions he tried to convey through flesh, but it was objectively better than out-lash of what he felt at that moment. A grimace. Cold. Strong. Lips closed to a prominent curve with his lips' flairs etching the pure and foul amount of dislike.


The impact sent the man-beast into backwards arc, his spine adjusting to the force of the impact which continued his rather awkward reaction. A strange and almost exaggerated display. The blood which poured from his head ran down a delta-like stream, dripping off Sef's boot heel.


"Hmph" He gave a slight notice of his disinterest through puffing out steam from his nostrils. He recoiled, stepping backwards--stepping a breathable distance from Sef. His face become clear for all to see. It was:


Impressed.


The man's raised brow said as much--he was clearly impressed by the feat However the grimace still showed a bit of his annoyance--but he gave respect where it was due. Though as the stream of blood running from a scuff mark on his forehead may have hurt his pride a bit he was impressed nonetheless with Sefariu.


It was quiet few seconds, broken by single series of claps from Aloysius, Which abruptly stopped with a thunderous punctuation.


"I commend your technique! It seems we both found a totem to base off our styles and abilities--Though that was your chance to end this. Spectacle and Finesse-You will soon find out that I am a different game than the common rabble we've slew. You have provided much more than just Anahit's gift. Oh how have I've learned, You have taught me."


Aloysius postulated and looked down upon the younger Setaro, a dribbled of blood teared out of his lip's edge as he finished his speech. The stream was halted as he smirked.


"Scorpion or Reptile? Let's find out shall we?" Rotating his neck and adjusting his shoulders, which were accompanied by a symphony of cracks, pops, and snaps. Aloysius desired to see this boy on the offensive, so he returned to his fighting stance--but towards the end he began to egg him on with a finger motion that allude to a "Come here to get your ass beat". or something....

_____​

Sef listened to Aloysius’ incomprehensible rabble. Something about Anahit’s gift and a taunt that he had missed his chance to snatch victory from him. He didn’t feel the need to inform his opponent that there was much more where that came from. The kick had connected perfectly with a tremendous force, leaving an impressive bootprint and small gash across Aloysius’ forehead. The crowd raged with bloodlust.


Aloysius was smiling.


"Scorpion or Reptile? Let's find out shall we?" Aloysius took the time to crack the bones in his shoulders and neck with sickeningly loud pops. A return to his former, flawless stance was followed by a mischievous beckoning motion made by his fingers.


There was one thing about this so-called ‘madman’ that intrigued the young Setaro; he appeared to share the love of combat. But there was more to it than that. They shared a love for testing another’s strength. To explore another’s will in an all out test of physicality. That's what this was. He wanted to test the skill of Sefariu.


Well, The Setaro Scorpion had no problem obliging.


Sef spread his legs into a wide stance and bent slightly at the knees. His arms simultaneously rose with an arch in both of his wrists, his fingers of each hand pointed directly at Aloysius. With a step forward with his dominant right leg, he traced a semi circle in the soft dirt of the arena floor before him with toe of his dark brown boot. His maroon robes fell by his sides and grazed the ground with gentle wisps. Muscles tensed with more anticipation than he had felt this entire time. A smile of his own soon crept across his face like a thief in the still night. His father may have warned him of the ruthlessness of his opposition, but now… Sef was ready to play.


With a quick shifting of weight to his off leg, Sef launched himself through the air from just behind his recently created line in an awe-inspiring display. His agile frame soared through the air gracefully like a leaping Jakka, and while in mid air, he twisted his entire body while extending his right foot to create a spinning kick. Time seemed to slow down as the wind whipped his robes around him. The fierce strike was again aimed directly at Aloysius’ head as Sef flew towards him, covering remarkable ground in the process.


Aloysius stood at the ready and watched with a wildly anxious stare. Waiting until the last possible second to respond, he let Sef’s airborne kick come within less than a foot from his temple before raising his left hand with deft speed to block the attack. His open palm received Sef’s boot so naturally it appeared as if this was intended consequence from both parties. The ready fingers clamped down with a vice like grip. In one graceful movement, Aloysius spun himself around in a whirlwind motion, whipping Sef’s body with him like some kind of doll.


With just a half rotation, the Basilisk used the Setaro Scorpion’s momentum against him, and with a practiced flick of his wrist, sent the younger fighter flying off-balance through the air. Sef hit the dirt of the arena floor with a rolling tumble causing small clouds of dust to float up around him.


The crowd exploded with incredible enthusiasm. Their feet began slamming up and down in unison causing thunderous booms to echo out; an old tradition in the coliseum of Iorn the spectators use to show their enjoyment of the combat.


The time for feeling each other out was now over. Capitalizing on his opponent’s lack of defence, Aloysius rushed the fallen Sefariu with remarkable speed. With each passing second and step closer, his intent grew more and more malevolent and malicious. Although it would be quite enjoyable to continue toying with the welp, the internal choice was made to end this bout now. He would beat the good-looking man’s face to a hideous pulp. He would bask in his blood, feeling it drip down his knuckles with unadulterated joy.


Aloysius leapt high into the air, hoping to pounce on the downed Sef and unleash a bombardment of vicious blows. His hands were once again curled in a fashion reminiscent of a Tral-el’s talon to employ his unique strikes. But just as his body was to meet his foe’s, Sef sprung into action and flipped hastily onto his back from his stomach. He speedily brought his knees into his chest with the bottoms of his feet pointed at the sky, or better yet, Aloysius’ incoming chest.


The maneuver was too expeditious for Aloysius to react in time. He felt his sternum land on the spring ready feet of Sef with anticipation. There was excitement at this unexpected turn of events where others would feel panic. Sef almost smiled as his eyes locked with Aloysius’ in the brief second before he sprang the ill intended leader of the Empty Ouroboros backwards with all of his strength.


The wall of noise that was now coming from the exhilarated crowd drowned out the thudding sound of Aloysius’ backside hitting the earth. He took just a moment to compose himself before slowly rising back to his feet in a somewhat dramatic manner. The young Setaro was continuing to impress him with each passing action. Dropping his still-bleeding forehead into his right hand, Aloysius began to laugh maniacally. Was it an act to intimidate? Or was he truly mad?


“O’ young Setaro, you are quite full of supri-” Whatever trash-talking or taunts that Aloysius intended to preach out were impeded by a cross-hook to his chiseled jaw. Blood filled his mouth as his mind filled with a raging gratification.


Yes, give it everything you have got.


Sef’s precision hook was quickly followed by another strike; a hard left jab to Aloysius’ retreating skull, sending it further back. A third strike came at Aloysius’ head, attempting a combination of punches, but the intended target dodged with a lightning flash. Where his head once was was instantaneously replaced with the crook of his elbow, catching Sef’s entire right arm in some type of lock. His limb was trapped.


“A fine effort Setaro! But now it is my turn!” Aloysius mocked over the surrounding onlookers as their gazes met. His free hand gripped the wrist of Sef and extended his arm. With no hesitation, Aloysius dropped the entirety of his weight to the arena floor with his opponent’s arm firmly within his grasp. The pair crashed down to the ground in unison. Aloysius held Sef’s wrist tightly with both of his hand while leaning his elbow into the back of Sef’s shoulder in an attempt to make his adversary submit. Or dislocate his shoulder, whichever came first.


Sef was in agony. His shoulder, neck, and torso were on fire with burning pain. Aloysius’ grip was strong and he was basically slowly tearing Sef’s right arm from it’s socket. The pain was unbearable, but he gritted his teeth and took it. The intense sounds of the onlookers around them were beginning to dim out for Sef as his eyesight closed in. He was losing consciousness from the physical torment.


“This cannot be it.”


Sef had one last chance to save himself. Using the same amazing limberness that he displayed at the beginning of the match, he bent his body backwards and brought his legs up with a snap. The soles of both of his boots connected with the back of Aloysius’ head with a brutal impact. Sef felt the instant limpness of his foe as his arm came free with an overwhelming feeling of alleviation. While breathing heavily, Sef pushed the unconscious body of Aloysius off of him and looked to the morning sky. The entire stadium were now on their feet in a fervor.


“And the winner is… Sefariu Setaro of House Setaro by way of knockout!’ The announcer called out to inform the crowd.


Sefariu slowly rose to his feet to meet the adoration. He looked down at his dead-to-the-world opponent and gave a short nod in appreciation before looking up to the royal booth. He raised the same arm that Aloysius just had in his grasp moments before, and with a bit of finesse, gave a deep bow.

 

[Cosmo]

Cosmo as Theuderic Grimoald

_____​

Location: Nevos, Kildra


Date: Month 6, Day 15


Time: Half Past the Twelfth Hour of Morning (12:30 PM)

_____​

The wickedly sharp knife carved through the thin skin and slid through the flesh hidden underneath, the juices slipping out of the open wound to run down the skin and drip onto the wooden floor below. With a sharp twist, a section of flesh was sheared off from the whole, caught between knife and leather finger as the wedge of flesh was tossed into the waiting mouth to be consumed, as Theuderic chewed on the sweet slice of apple. He wiped the corner of his mouth with the back of his leather glove as a drop of juice threatened to roll down and get lost in the dark expanse of his beard, his green eyes scanned the 'city' nearby, although 'town' was very generous, Theuderic wouldn't have called it more then an overgrown village with the ego to match. Still, it had work, he tapped his knife against the wooden rail that kept the drunk workers from tipping over the end of the warehouse his current 'employer' was inspecting as a new shipment had recently come in, given the silent nature, Theuderic was certain it was something highly illegal. Maybe slaves. Although why the fat merchant had decided to not bring him was beyond him, Theuderic couldn't rub two shits together if they were slaves or not. Everyone was a slave, as far as Theuderic was concerned, to the master known as circumstance, some just had longer and prettier shackles.

His eyes shot down to the street below, a group of rough looking, armed men heading their way. The lack of uniforms told him they weren't guards, but the self-assured grins upon their faces and tensed arms did hide the fact that these were fighters, either a hired bunch from another merchant or from local piss ant crook who thought themselves something of a 'lord' of crime, which really just meant lord of the piss stained street and worn whores that the lord considered too beneath himself to tax. A few swords of questionable construction, a few cudgels and clubs.. a nasty bit of gear. But it meant trouble, and Theuderic didn't like trouble, well, at least trouble that meant trouble for him and the contract he had written and signed, and one the fat merchant kept as his waist to wave under Theuderic's nose when he felt like it, stated he was to protect the fat man, his far too young wife, brat and merchandise, whatever that may be. Theuderic licked the blade of his knife, removing the apple juices as he slid it into the sheath at his hip, picked up his polearm and made his way down the hall and rickety steps, "Oui, arseholes, up and at 'em, got some unwanted guest on the way, so time to earn your miserable fucking pay," he called out to the warehouse, pleased to hear the sounds of rushed movement, curses and shouts of false bravado fill the large warehouse stuffed with various goods from rugs, chest of clothe, sacks of grain and he could just make out the sight of large cages at the back, slaves it was. If the fat merchant was really lucky, those cages would be filled with Parshumian or T'Odis their exotic looks would fetch quite the handsome profit.

Theuderic stepped out the large warehouse doors and set his polehammer against the wall, pointedly ignoring the group of ruffians as the merchant's own muscle began to gather, instead he focuses on brushing off a crinkle in the wrist of his dark gamberson, the chain hauberk over it clanking as it was dislodged and settled back down. He turned to face the foerign group, took out his hunting knife and began carving up his half-eaten apple, as he eyed the group. His green eyes scanned them, all Kildrans, all big, all strong, all very, very stupid looking. Some of them appeared to have been veterans of the last Civil War, and from the tattoos, they fought for the whore Queen, the others appeared as nothing more then thugs, likely local bullies that had realized from a very young age that their big size and muscles could get them whatever they wanted so long as they stood the right way, glared hard enough and were willing to crack a few skulls. One small fellow in the back caught his eyes, the leather garbed man, leather was poor choice of armor in Theuderic's opinion as gamberson was simply superior, fingered the hilt of his two daggers, a back alley cutthroat if he ever saw one, that little fucker would be the one to deal with and as the small man licked his lips, and it appeared the man was some sort of sadist, he decided and popped another chunk of apple into his mouth.

He didn't have to wait long as labored breathing and the rusting of cloth on wooden floors reached his ears. Theuderic turned his head slightly, not fully taking his eyes of the thugs as his employer arrived, the esteemed Harold MacDroll, came hustling out, his large gut bouncing with each step as his cloak dragged against the ground behind him and Theuderic wasn't sure if he wanted it to get caught in a crack, and so yank the fat merchant back, or for him to stumble forward as with a gut like that, he was quite certain he would get a pretty solid 'roll' into that, hells, he might even take the thugs out for them, crushed under the man's bulk. Coming behind him, Theuderic spotted his wife, Nasar...Nashire... something with an N, those damn Nomasdae always had damnable difficult names. Not as bad as those pale T'Odis bastards with their archaic language, but damn close. The woman was thin, barely nineteen winters, and Theuderic could only wonder how much her parents must have needed the money to send the girl to be crushed by the man's bulk every night, but, well, worse ways to have a comfortable living then enduring being lost in the fat rolls as she helped him find his prick every night. If she was smarter, she could get him so hot and bothered he keeled over, but, the lass never struck him as particularly bright and her intelligence certainly wasn't what attracted the fat merchant.

"What are you doing here!? Tell Ulfar that he will get his cut when I have moved the merchandise!" Harold said, fishing out a handkerchief from.. somewhere within the vast swaths of clothe to pat away at the sweat the beaded on his face, already a bright red from the exertion.

"Aye, the boss knows, but, ya see, he has a..." A hulking figure said as he stepped forward, tilting his head as if trying to recall the exact words, "A hankering for one of them fine pale women, ya know, with that white hair and nice hips? Says they are the only ones that can handle him," He gave his neighbor a nudge with his elbow, "If you know what I mean!" which earned him a few chuckles from his comrades.

"I have a-a few," Harold admitted, beating at his brow more with the cloth, "But they are all taken! As is the fish boy!" he said, "Already signed the deals, I can't simply change it now. I have a reputation to think of."

"Fish boy?" The big one said, offering a large smile... the charm it could have had was taken away by the numerous missing teeth, "Is it for the lord's lad? I hear he has a thing for boys, ha! Ain't nothing wrong with an arsehole if ya know what to do, but I ain't fond of no boys, they squeal too much for my liking!" He roared, laughing along with his fellows.

Theuderic kept an eye on them, slicing off more pieces of his rapidly diminishing apple as he took stock of them. Seven of them, including that cutter, they had.. about four, including himself. More then enough as while he didn't put much stalk in Harold's men, the thugs weren't much of a threat and outside of that cutter, hadn't come expecting trouble.

"M-Maybe on the next shipment, I can get what Ulfar ne-.." Harold started but was cut off when the large man stepped forward and interrupted him, "Oh, aye? Maybe I could, you know, be persuaded to convince the boss to try later, but I would need something for my trouble, and all this talk of arseholes and fine women has got me thinking, shouldn't Ol' Kenner get something for his troubles?"

"Well," the merchant began, and Theuderic could already see that little vermin inside his head running its heart out as the merchant calculated the cost of this bribe, "I suppose I can reward such, uh, dedication with some coin.."

"Coin?" the large man, Kenner, said hooting with laughter, "I can't take no bribes, and I was thinking of something a bit softer, if you know what I mean, something darker," he growled, his eyes running over the merchant's wife who shied back and tried to hide herself behind her husband's bulk which was quite easily done.

"Why.. you.." the merchant sputtered as his face grew even redder and for a second Theuderic thought it would pop like an overripe tomato but was disappointed when he turned towards them, "You!" he said shoving his fat sausage fingers at the Theuderic, "Remove them from my property!"

Theuderic took a deep bite out of the apple, his teeth crushing into the apple core, he pulled it away and tossed it away and marched to stand before the large man. He chewed slowly, his green eyes tracing the bigger man, who stood half a foot taller and a dozen stones heavier, then him and waited. The large man offered up another toothless smile and opened his mouth to speak, but before he could get out a word, Theuderic spit up at his face, the hard core and apple seeds flying at his face. The large man recoiled instantly, his hands flying up, but not fast enough as Theuderic brought his hand around like a viper and smacked the large man across the face with a loud, echoing smack with the back of his hand. The large red mark on the man's cheek, easily seen through the scars and stubble was already turning an ugly red color. The shocked silence did not last long as the large man reared back, lifting his large ham-sized fist up but stopped cold at the sharp metal against his throat, the hunting knife he had been using to carve the apple at his throat, the large man took a deep breath, his adam's apple brushing against the sharp metal letting it bite into the soft flesh as a trickle of blood ran down the metal, "You heard the man, piss off," Theuderic said, his right hand reaching towards his belt for the handle of his mace.

The rustling behind him told him the warehouse guards were drawing their own weapons, as the men behind Kenner did the same, the small man nearly shaking with excitement for the bloodletting to come. Kenner took a single step back, putting him beyond the range of the knife, his fingers rubbed the line left behind by his knife, "You little fuck, do you know who we are?"

"No," Theuderic said with a non-committal shrug, "Do you know who I am?"

Confusion slid across Kenner's face, "No?"

"Aye, so piss off," Theuderic said again, slowly drawing his mace from his hip and rolling it in his wrist, the heavy weapon just as capable of denting in plate as it was in shattering bones.

From between the thugs, Theuderic could make out another group approaching, adorned in the colors of the local lord, Kenner turned back, a snarl on his face, "We'll be back," he said stomping off, his lackeys in toe.

"Very cleverly said!" Theuderic yelled after the retreating man, "Never heard that one before! Aye, you're only half dumb as you look, you big fucking lummox!"

Theuderic slid the mace back at his hip and bent down to sheath the knife in his boot, Harold could handle the explanation, the other guards were already starting to head back into the warehouse, no doubt heading towards the slaves to keep them quiet so the guards didn't hear, and his wife finally peaked out over the bulk of her husband and offered a timid smile which he did not return. Three more weeks.... he was bound by that damn contract. Three weeks. He fought down a sigh as he straightened up and lifted his polehammer and headed back into the warehouse, he needed a new career.

 

[King Ad Rock]

King Ad Rock
as

Rufus Nevarron and Lord Nevarrus Nevarron of Nevos

_____
​

Time: Have past the twelfth hour of morning (12: 30 P.M.)

Date: Month 6, Day 15, 369

Location: Nevarron Castle, Nevos, Kildra

_____​

Nevarrus looked more than a bit agitated while sitting on his elegant throne.

But this mood was already in place before his only son threw open the large wooden double doors to the throne room of the Nevarron estate with a dramatic intention. Nevarrus brought his recently shaved head up from its resting place in his palms with a sudden snap at the intrusion.

It was difficult to tell by looking at the man now, but the Lord of Nevos was once considered one of the most handsome nobles in Kildra. His squared jawline was still there, but the coddled, rich aging had taken both his hair and built physique, leaving behind another plump Kildran noble.

Nevarrus Nevarron

​

A lone, thin yet well-dressed advisor stood to Nevarrus’ right, apparently in some type of mid-meeting. The advisor was Illard Plain, Nevarrus’ youngest bastard brother and Rufus’ uncle. Although he appeared a bit on the gaunt side compared to his muscled or fattened brothers, he shared the family's relative good looks.

Illard Plain

​

The early afternoon sun was pouring in through the stained glass windows of the throne room and cascaded over the hard stone floor before Rufus. The young Nevarron marched from the doorway with clear intent.

“Father! I wish to speak with you.

"Now!" Rufus raged.

Nevarrus sighed out loud to himself before responding in his own well-known growl. It was nowhere near a yell or a holler. Nevarrus did not raise his voice. Instead it was a raspy commanding snarl that Rufus had been raised to fear. It was said that Nevarrus could tame a Kildran Forest Bear by just ordering it to obey him.

“Yes? And what would you like to speak about? And do make sure to take that tone from your voice before responding.” Nevarrus replied coldly before turning to Illard. “That is enough for now, Illard. We will discuss this matter later. It appears my son wishes to converse with me.”

With his dismissal, Illard bowed slightly at the waist before Nevarrus with a quick, “Yes, M’Lord.” Before scurrying by Rufus towards the door. Illard tried to employ a friendly smile to his nephew, but cast his eyes down immediately upon seeing the fuming look on his face.

“Well, go on boy, there is only so much time in the day.” Nevarrus stated impatiently while shifting the weight in his cushioned seat.

“It is about Lilly-!” Rufus began, refusing to take the anger from his voice, but before he could go on, Nevarrus interrupted,

“Have you finally done the deed boy? It is about damn-“ It was now Nevarrus’ turn to be cut off by his sole son and heir.

“Azae be damned father, this is NOT what I came here to speak about!” Rufus was almost foaming at the mouth now, his blue eyes now burning with erupting anger. “Quite the opposite in fact! This dreadfulness, this affront to decency, I will not stand by idly and accept it anymore!” Both of Rufus’ fists were now clenched tightly by his sides while his voice grew in both volume and rage. The bellowing carried its way out of the thrones room and down the halls, finding its way into many a servant’s ear.

“Boy, I do not have time for this. First you curse our God, if I was a religious man I would-“ Nevarrus would not finish this sentence yet again.

“What is it father? Does the T’Odis girl’s fair skin remind you of mother’s, hm? Is this the real reason you have bought her? To fulfill some sort of sick fantasy for yourself!?” A satisfaction spread across Rufus’ face while spitting these words at him. These words of truth that he had been holding in for far too long now flooded forth.

“If you speak one more word disrespecting your mother, I promise you will regret it, you insolent welp!” Nevarrus now stood to his feet with these venomous words. His gritted teeth were now showing. The pure rage of having his late wife brought up was painted across his face. Each guard on Nevarrus’ side seemed to flinch at his abrupt leap and roar of words.

“She is to be used for the purpose of producing a worthy heir to this house! I will not let the proud Nevarron name die out because of your disgusting proclivities!” Nevarrus was no longer quietly growling, but now at a full on shout. Up until recently, he had looked the other way when it came to Rufus’ sexuality, but he had finally decided that the games were over.

“I will give you one more damn chance, if you will not come to your senses, then I will sire a new heir with the white-haired bitch myself to replace you, and you will never, and I mean never see the light of day again. I will have Illard throw your pathetic excuse for a body in the dungeons to live out the rest of your days.” Nevarrus had stepped forward, closer and closer to Rufus with each word. Rufus has appeared to lose the confidence he had just moments before while stepping back from his approaching enraged father. He reversed so much in a backwards motion that he soon found his back up against the heavy wooden door to the throne room that he had burst through earlier.

Nevarrus did not stop his advance. With a few final and very deliberate steps, he was now nose-to-nose with his son. The guards watched silently from their positions, trying their best not stare in the direction of what was unfolding before them.

“The only reason I have not had you hung for your embarrassing existence that brings down the Nevarron name has been out of love and respect for the fine woman that was your mother!” Nevarrus was almost spitting now. “Now you get out of my sight before I lose what little patience I have left and thank Azae that I even let you live!” And with these last words, Nevarrus swung his arm and backhanded Rufus violently across his fleshy cheek. Despite the man’s age, his strength was still there in force. One of the rings that adorned Lord Nevarron’s fingers ripped Rufus’ face open and blood splattered across the stone floor with the jerk of his head.

Rufus tried not to yelp at the shock of pain, but a small one escaped his lips nonetheless. The brave young man that entered the room was now reduced to a terrified child. He turned away swiftly from his father’s fury and fumbled with opening the door to flee. What was he thinking? There was never any reasoning with his father, and now the man was so engulfed in pure anger there was no telling what he would do.

Rufus now knew that they both most leave as soon as possible and never look back.

Zooks

 

[Kayvan]

Man could rise to any height, but there was an animal level beneath which he could not fall

T.E Lawrence, Seven pillars of wisdom


Location: Kildra, South of Mandria, Kildra's mountain range, Smiths compound


Date: Month 6, Day 12

Time: 45 Minutes until midnight.


Arcsidian, the self-claimed man of erudition did not concur that night to the tepid banquet of vindication, rather excused himself to his library after the superfluity of excuses he made to the seven captains disgusted him. The jubilation of his men, immersed in reprobation had set the appropriate mood for the book he was reading. A crimson book, embellished with delicate golden strings disseminated over the cover. This chaotic ubiquity of golden string at the top emerged into order, which formed the title, "The master merit". The enigmatic nature of the book vindicated the author’s intentions in justifying slavery through improvisation and metaphysical reasoning. "A total rhetoric." Arcsidian thought. He did not concur to the dictum, but he was confident that his own, provided limpid judgment which contributed greatly to the fruition of his business propriety.

Samir, one of arcsidian's men knocked on the door and entered upon receiving permission.

"M'lord the captain's are leaving, one of them left you this note." Said Samir.

He handed the note to Arcsidian. The letter mentioned the Lord Nevarron's intentions of purchasing a female slave with diaphanous details.

"Samir, have the slave girl we purchased prepared in decent clothing, see that she's embellished and presentable." Arcsidian responded thusly.

Arcsidian returned to the book but underneath, he was replaying the day he purchased the slave girl Lilly(@Zuka) from the secret auction held in Kildra months ago.

The young female was but a child, a teenage girl. This one was terrified to her deepest cores. "I have little use for a kitten. I don't usually play with them. I might feed you to my dogs, or worst."Arcsidian was talking about his men. The girl let out a very damp scream, an act of fear lubricated by more fear.

For a while now, a peaceful sleep’s been a rare commodity for Arcsidian and tonight was no different. Dreams full of repugnance and conversations with odd individuals. Starting with impertinence, war, and then, tranquility and nothingness.

A sudden shock and Arcsidian jumped up looking for his dagger like a child for his mother, neglecting the figure that caused it.

"M'lord! We’ve been attacked! Redmight's legions sir!" Samir called out from the hall.

"Those treacherous bastards just had dinner with us. I told Václav to watch their move!"

"I think he is excused, his body was found in a ditch!" Samir responded with a yelp.

Redmight's assassin took advantage of the feast to hide all over his compound. More than half of his men were killed. How superficial he felt. Maybe he didn't comprehend the disaster in his circumference or he just didn't care. In the past he had always been critical of his own feelings and their authenticity.

The sound of men screaming and fighting outside the library, in amazing propriety, reminded him of one of those conversations he had with someone in his dreams. There was no fighting in his dream conversations, although, the smell of smoke, and the grindings of metals against each other, in all their repugnance with a normal conversation, in superficiality were no different.

With an intense shock, the room started shaking. The bolted door to the Arcsidian’s room was virtually blown to uncountable pieces. Arcsidian reached out for his sword and Samir let out a big cry and cut the first red armor that came into the room. Arcsidian was surprised that none of his guards were around to assist them which made him wonder how bad the situation really was!

Arcsidian took his head out of the window and started yelling: "Get some men in here, NOW!"

Only then he had the real glimpse of the situation. There were barely any structures left in the main court yard that were not either burning or collapsing. His men were fighting fiercely. A group of guards have been able to organize a holding ground which was stretching from the armory to the barracks. They formed a wall with the biggest shields they could possibly find, allowing the surprised troops to move relatively safer from the barracks to the armory where they could arm themselves and have a fighting chance. However every time a redmight’s brute swung his hammer, somebody would fall. In terms of numbers and man power, they were losing decisively.

He didn’t wait to see if there was anyone to obey or disobey, but quickly joined Samir as he was barely dodging and blocking a redmight’s brute. Arcsidian took his dagger into the brute's back as he was getting ready to deliver a decisive blow. A large of group of redmight’s soldiers were pouring into the room but from the screaming and yelling from the outside he could tell that they were being attacked from behind. The two groups, clashed together and a fierce fight was to begin. There seemed to be no end since every time they cut someone, two more took their place. Samir, the old man finally gave in to his old age! Arcsidian couldn’t tell in the midst of battle whether he was cut or his heart just stopped, but he could tell with certainty that the old man was dead.

The sight of large spears appeared outside the room as his men were cutting through thick armor and putting bodies in their wake. Arcsidian was nearly depleted but he could feel the surge of something extra in his veins, something like hope.

When the last of Redmight’s legions in the room were killed, the third captain of the family stepped inside the room. It was obvious that he too was caught by surprise since he had only his body armor on and not much else. He shouted fiercely at his men to form a defensive perimeter outside the room. He approached Arcisdian after.

"We came as soon as we could m’lord!" Arcsidian's captain shouted to him.

"Gather what remaining men we have and send them to the dungeons." Arcisidian answered quickly

The captain quickly approached the window and started blowing into his horn three times which signaled immediate retreat.

"If anyone can live through this we’ll meet them outside the walls." Said the Captain in exasperation.

Arcsidian rushed towards the book columns. He found what he was looking for, his escape. In the row of books about “ubiquity” a book led to escape. It led to a labyrinth of tunnels in amazing propriety with his book collections. He always thought of his library and their order of placement and propriety of subjects as a maze. He always thought that this library signified and symbolized his own mind! And he built that maze below his compound with the same proportions. As a result of this no one could find his way out of it but he himself. Arcsidian and his men stepped inside the maze for the intentions of survival. Soon they would end up in another for different intentions!

 

[King Ad Rock]

The following is a collaboration between King Ad Rock and Lakita

King Ad Rock
as

Vanse D'Enishora

Lakita
as

Maerwynn T'Iiosha

_____​

Location: Road to Boar's Den

Date: Month 6, Day 15

Time: 3rd hour of the night (3 P.M.)

_____​

The morning had not brought Maerwynn respite from her pain, be it from her cracked rib or her ravenous appetite. Though she had slept quite soundly, upon awakening, she'd felt just as tired as she had the night before. Not that Vanse had seemed to take much notice - in a manner of minutes, she'd been ushered downstairs, out the inn, and onto a horse. She was sick of horses. The plains that had fascinated her earlier made her sick as well as did the complaints of the innkeeper they soon left in the distance. The South, so far, had lost much of its appeal that she'd got from reading her books.

Hours passed by with no sign of Vanse stopping. Her ribs ached and her stomach felt as if someone were twisting it. Maerwynn had thought earlier to complain but she'd soon come to a harrowing realization. If Vanse could ride this far without issue, so too could their pursuers. It was only when he brought up his plan to leave her behind that she spoke up. She knew that they would eventually part ways but so soon? The next town?

Unlike her, Vanse seemed to have a good grip on his surroundings - she suspected that he'd been South before. How was she to navigate this foreign land without a guide? She knew that the people sent after them were dangerous, immeasurably so. But with a night's sleep behind her now, the battle in the storm seemed like a dream to her. Besides, Vanse had killed them all effortlessly before, hadn't he?

'But then again,' she thought, 'he doesn't know why you're here. You're a merchant girl to him, nothing more.'

Maerwynn knew that she needed a reason for them to stick together. Riding a horse made it difficult for her to think, however, and she found her thoughts drifting to the throbbing ache in her ribs. Every time the animal went over a rough patch, sharp jolts made it difficult for her to breath, as if her own ribs were stabbing her chest. Enough was enough. She was only human, whatever he was.

"St-stop. We ha-aa-ave to stop."

Perhaps she'd spoken too softly? Maerwynn tightened her grip around him before practically shouting for him to stop. Soon, the horse slowed down to a trot before halting completely. She slid off the horse in the same undignified manner as before, hitting the ground with a grunt. A few minutes passed while she caught her breath.

"I'm hungry. My ribs fucking hurt! We have a big lead over them," she huffed, "I need to rest. And eat something - why did we leave the inn so quickly?"

_____

Vanse reigned in the horse at the sound of Maerwynn’s shouting. Before he could respond to her, she loosened her tight grip of his mid-section and slid off the stallion with a painful sounding grunt.

"I'm hungry. My ribs fucking hurt! We have a big lead over them," she huffed, "I need to rest. And eat something - why did we leave the inn so quickly?" Her words were again shouted and spoken in a quick manner. Vanse now realized just how insensitive he had been this entire time to her plight. She did not ask for any of this and was still in mending due to those who were in pursuit of him and only him. Strands of her darkly brown hair were stuck to her slightly sweated forehead.

She was diminutive in relation to Vanse’s own natural T’Odis size, but he was just now noticing that was actually somewhat attractive, at least for a Kildran. He had always found Kildrans to be a strange looking folk in the small amount of dealings that he had with them. But he supposed that they were no stranger than a Parshumian, who tended to be even smaller; although he was used to seeing their kind in the Lawless Lands, with the occasional rich merchant in the Lawful Lands. Vanse had never even seen a Nomasdae person, and thought the idea of someone having “black” skin to be absurd. Surely they could not be that dark?

Vanse’s face remained stoic in expression. Many who met him would describe him as cold and a bit humorless, but the truth is, this is how many of the orphans who were raised to become a Justice Horde Knight came off. They were taught to be intensely independent, strong, and to hide any weakness they may perceive themselves to have. Vanse tended to forget that those who did not have his upbringing were not as willing to attempt his appearance of indestructibleness.

“I apologize…” Vanse finally managed to blurt out with a downcast and shamed look. With the horse now settled and at a full stop, he now dismounted himself to stand beside her. He looked back into the open plains of Kilda, now behind them and realized just how far they had traveled in such a short time. Maybe she was was right. Maybe they had gained tremendous ground against any pursuers, if there were any to begin with. It had been some time since had had a proper night’s sleep and was beginning to wonder if he was just being incredibly paranoid.

But being paranoid was synonymous with caution to a T’Odis Justice Horde Knight.

Vanse had never been this south of the gate. A cool breeze, nowhere near the frigid temperature of the winds of T’Odis, blew Vanse’s stark white locks wildly around his face.

“You need rest, don’t you? Are you all right…?” He paused to search for her name. “Maerwynn? Can make camp here. There are trees for fire, but must find food.”

_____


They had no materials for a proper camp but hearing that they'd stop made Maerwynn feel as if they had arrived at a castle.

"I'm fine," she dropped her useless crossbow on the ground. "I'll get us some wood. Maybe some berries too, if I'm lucky."

She struggled to her feet and headed for the brush. The flora here was foreign to her but dead branches burned all the same. At least she hoped they would - though the temperature here was far milder than her homeland, she had broken out in a cold sweat all the same. It was the rib that caused it. Once she was sufficiently deep into the trees, Maerwynn took off her fur coat and inspected her wound.

It was as she'd suspected. A hard nub of bone still threatened to poke through her bruised skin - sleep had not put it back in its place. Just touching it was enough to make her double over in pain. How had her father treated these injuries? She vaguely remembered a trapper whose shoulder had been this way; he'd had a rough fall. Her father had done something with his hands... it had only taken a few minutes.

Perhaps she could push it back into place? Maerwynn gingerly poked at her rib before hissing in pain. It would have to be a quick operation, whatever she did. She swept her bangs out of her face and leant back against a tree. Inspiration came to her a few minutes later.

"I could use you," she murmured. The trees here differed much from her home. They had leaves instead of needles and smoother, lighter bark. But their strength was much the same and it was perfect for her plan. Maerwynn took in a small breath, counted to three, and slammed herself against the tree. The rib in question popped back into place; shoved roughly back into position.

She considered herself lucky that their pursuers were so far behind; her ensuing scream could tell even the most incompetent tracker where they were. She lay slumped against the trunk, her face pressed against the bark.

Large spots of black dotted her vision and she struggled to regain her conscious but when she did, the relief she felt was palpable. The injury would still ache, she knew, but now she lay reassured that it would heal with time.

A snort alerted her that she was not alone and Maerwynn twisted around to find herself sharing gazes with a boar. Uncharacteristic to the beautiful landscape, this beast was almost comical in how brutal it seemed. Thick and curved tusks sprouted at will; its face seemed more horn than head. It snorted again before trotting closer.

"Stay back," she fumbled around for her knife before realizing it was in her now-abandoned coat. If this animal was anything like her Yiptiks, she knew that they could sense vulnerability.

"I said, stay back." Her voice was strained from her makeshift operation yet firm. She had learned long ago that shouting would only serve to enrage a beast, or confuse their already small brains. She slowly got up to her feet and stared the boar down - until it charged.

 

[Gradous13]

Location: Road to Boar's Den

Date: Month 6, Day 15

Time: 1600

Riene sighed, what little patience she had began to wear thin. Canvas did impress her though, they had ridden hard for a few hours but the horse had shown he had began to tire. Riene let Canvas take a slow pace as they moved along a dirt road. Pulling softly on the reigns Canvas halted before a wood line which forced the path either left or right.
"Traeg, mup Y lefa afam hass uv em ybae eduug plyj pei ia pamg... lahh pygl."
(Great, now I have even less of an Idea about which way he went.... hell with it)

Riene pulled right and the two made their way down the road. Another hour had passed, and doubt began to set in Riene's mind What if this guy wasn't Artyom Okra'nev? What if she had been chasing a ghost? Riene pulled a rolled up piece of paper out of her cloak and spread it open. It showed a mans face and a name, What if this was wrong too? The wrong face with the right name? It had been many years and he could have a very different look. A sudden rustle in the tree line caught her attention and she snapped too. "Gats tu!"(Lets go!) She shouted and cased after the noise which moved rapidly away from her. At this point she cared not what it was but Riene was determined to kill it.

Riene stopped Canvas and dismounted, she took of her cloak and draped it over the saddle. Whatever it was she was chasing had stopped up ahead, she drew her sword and gripped it tightly, the blade was at her side with the point behind her. If she were to attack or defend an upward swing would do the job. Silently she moved in. Riene heard a snorting sound "E duer?" (A boar?) she questioned while moving closer and closer. She crept towards her prey but then a voice came out, it was a different language from what Riene spoke but it was a pained voice.

Without a second thought Riene burst from her concealed position and closed the gap, her heart pound, and the leaves and branches of the smaller plants broke beneath her stride. The boar came into view, it was young, but old enough to be on its own judging buy its size. She changed her grip slightly for a upwards slash from right to left, the boar had stood its ground for a moment but then charged back towards Riene who swung he blade the moment the beast came within striking distance. The tip of the sword cut a deep gash into the boars face but it continued it's attack and jumped into Riene. She had left herself wide open which allowed the boar to put a gash into the her left side abdomen just below where the armour stopped. When the boar hit the ground Riene drove her sword downwards, inpaling the heart and lungs killing the beast.

A slew of curses came from Riene as she caught her breath. Looking around she didn't see anyone but there was fresh footprints, whoever it was left in a hurry while she attacked the boar. Looking back, Riene motioned to canvas several time who got the hint and began following Riene. It was a short walk before she emerged from the tree line. Her eyes widened at the To'dis man before her. He was slightly shorter than Riene and rather handsome, also young, around her age maybe bring her to the conclusion that he was most certainly not the man who she sought... time seemed to stop between them, the soft breeze pushed gently against them. Anger brought her back from the pause "ARTYOM OKRA'NEV" was the only thing Reine said, and she said it with conviction and vengeance, rage flowing within her presence, the sword still drawn with the boars blood upon its edges was still firmly gripped in Riene's hands...

Riene said the name of the man who she'd been after, but the To'dis man who stood before her, ready to draw his weapon to defend the girl behind him, clearly was not who she had hoped bringing her anger to a far higher level before her emotions would shut down, she could not be anymore livid than what she already was. Riene took a non agressive posture, her right hand still gripped the sword which pointed away to her righ and her left now hung at her side "Plu era iuu?" ("Who are you?") Riene asked the man, ready to defend herself in case he were to attack...

 

[Saavedra]

Astoria Ci Garland

Vendel river, off the docks of Gilgrend

Month 6, Day 16

10:30AM​

Astoria stood on the prow of the galleon like a flame at the end of a torch. Clouds raced each other across the sky over the city docks of Gilgrend, the sunlight seeming to dance in the air as it reflected on the water, and on the lady´s bright red and white clothing. Her flaming hair waved lazily behind her as the ship parted the river on its way north. It was a fine day for sailing, and that was what she intended to do, more or less.

“Have you decided on a name for the ship, milady?” The chief artisan asked her. While Astoria was a young woman of fair skin, he was an older man that had clearly worked under the sun for the better part of his life. He was robust, hairy and amiable, as well as an excellent example of an engineer who was good at getting things done... exactly the reason he had been entrusted to build and install Astoria´s contraption in the half-built ship.

“Not yet. I hope to be inspired by its success, if it produces one.” Resting an arm on the railing, Astoria turned to look down into the innards of the boat. The decks inside had not yet been put in place, so the ship was pretty much hollow except for the structures needed to keep it together and the bare minimum floors and ladders the engineers needed to move around. Looking down into the dark interior inspired a feeling of apprehension in her chest, but this had been the first day with weather passable enough to test the ship in two weeks. For all the patience she usually exhibited, Astoria was more than eager to see this project in motion. At the lowest deck, in the aft, there was her latest creation. If it worked... one could only imagine the effect in the economy of the whole world. She allowed herself a smile at the thought, before looking up at the fully extended sails. “Time to check whether the impulsor will work as intended, I think?”

“Indeed. Nothing but three miles of clear water ahead.” The artisan checked that no other ships or small boats would get in their way for the next few minutes, and nodded to himself. He was more confident in Astoria´s idea than she was, so he gestured at the sailors and engineers in charge of running the ship to prepare. “With your permission?”

“Go ahead, chief artisan.”

He raised his hand long enough for everyone to grab onto the ropes running around the rigging. Astoria held onto the railing, bracing for what she expected would be just a gentle acceleration, but not fancying the idea of becoming intimately acquainted with the deck. The man dropped his hand. The sails furled slowly, retreating upwards like a spider´s web being collected by its creator. At the same time, the engineer gestured at the crew inside the ship. He could see them lurking in the shadows, since the crew included two teams of four horses each, and they saw him just fine silhouetted against the sky. There was movement in the darkness, the sound of horse hooves moving on wood, and then... a sound not unlike that of a wooden mill working. Wood creaking, and then rolling as well. Everyone aboard knew that in the depths of the galleon, two men had pulled two horses each into two enormous wooden wheels, large enough to acommodate the animals, secured them in place with a yoke, and then urged them to start walking. Someone down there bellowed an order. A lever was moved in the dark, and the motion of the wheels transferred to a complicated set of well-lubricated metal gears which in turn took the effort of the horses toward two flower-shaped wooden pieces that hung in the water outside the ship itself. The flowers began moving slowly, their fight against the water coming back toward the wooden wheels. The horses found some resistance to their movement now, but the men taking care of them gently coaxed them into a trot.

Soon, the speed the ship had lost when furling its sails was recovered. The chief artisan put both hands behind his head, unable to hold back his satisfaction, but lowered them again quickly when he remembered he was in noble company. He was about to apologize, but he saw the look in Astoria´s face as her eyes watched the foam clinging to the ship´s knife-like prow, and knew better than to bother her with something so trivial. The gentle smile and the dreamy look in her eyes would have been something terrible to interrupt. More so when, without turning to address him, whispered an order. “Full run, and deploy the sails.”

The artisan shouted with all the force of a voice used to unleash bouts of triumph and rage. The horses began running on the wheels and the large, white sails snapped on their way down, slapping the wind, then bloating forward as they took it in. For a few seconds, there was barely a difference. After that, all those present could feel the speed in their bodies... everything was more a sensation than a thought now, and Astoria became lost in it. She could not remember having moved at this speed in a long time, and only on a horse. Certainly not on a large vehicle such as a galleon. It arrested her breath to feel the way the galleon bounced on the water and hear the water breaking against the prow. She only came out of it when the artisan shouted another order, this time for the horses to stop running and the ship to start turning back before it left the Vendel river and entered the lake of the same name. The noble lady blinked, brushed her red hair with a somewhat embarrassed smile, and took stock of the ship´s location. She was surprised, recognizing that they had in fact sailed quite far in what felt like very little time. Astoria felt somewhat dizzy, between the speed the ship had managed, the motion as it turned back toward Gilgrend, and the excitement of it all. “What speed did we achieve?”

“Roughly twenty knots, milady.”

Astoria immediately ran the calculations in her head. The fastest ships of this size ran at eight knots. The difference meant her contraption had achieved twelve knots, and it was not even fine-tuned. The ship itself was not fully built yet, which would mean more weight and a loss in speed when the decks were properly installed and furnished, but... twelve knots was insane. She had expected eight at most, which would have justified taking the sails away and allowed her to build a recreational boat for dukes, barons, princes and kings. That had been her original idea, just a boat with nothing on the top deck so great events could be celebrated on it without the boat losing its performance. A ship for events and transportation. Astoria could have hardly expected more out of her efforts since sailing ships had not been the main focus of her studies, but this...?

Astoria took a deep breath, and turned to the artisan. “How long would it take to furnish the galleon properly? Decks, stairs, everything...”

Guessing how impatient she was now feeling and smiling to himself at that, the man covered his mouth with his hand and thought for a moment. “Roughly three weeks. If you don´t want to change that impulsor of yours.”

“I intend to do so, however. Just not great changes. Improve the gear assembly and the propeller design, perhaps elongate the wheels so more horses can run on them or use a different animal...” All the possibilities were there, and so overwhelming she had no idea where to start.

He sensed her indecision, and knew what to say. “With all the gold you´ll earn from this boat, you can afford to take your time and design a proper second one after this. In the meantime, I´m guessing you´ll want to set up some sort of event?”

Astoria sighed, relieved that the man had so quickly offered a solution. “Yes, absolutely! A... a passenger run from here to somewhere...”

“Lenent.” The man suggested, already making this success his, in part. He crossed his hands behind his back and stood on his tip-toes, grinning. “Your boat will do that trip in less than two days, I reckon.”

“Less than two days!” Astoria exclaimed, amazed. That same journey usually took about a week, give or take a couple days due to weather conditions and other unforeseen circumstances. Her blood started boiling with enthusiasm. Nothing like a semi-tangible reference point to evaluate one´s success.

“My lady, if you announce you have designed and built a ship capable of making Lenent from Gilgrend in just two days, and that this ship will make its maiden voyage in four weeks... you will probably make the cost of the ship back in just that one trip, and gain all the prestige and glory you could want.”

“And so would you.” Astoria raised an eyebrow, but kept her smile. “It is not the gold I am interested in, however. Passage will be standard rate. We will keep the sails in their place. The important thing will be the speed, chief artisan. That is what will sell this ship. As for prestige, you can be sure you will share in that once we are done with this. You can start making our creation into a proper passenger boat as soon as we are back.”

“It will be a pleasure. Speaking of which...?”

Astoria crossed her arms, catching immediately what the man meant to ask when he left the question hanging in the air. “Full speed ahead, of course.”

The artisan nodded, grinning widely. As soon as the ship was done changing bearing, he once again ordered the horses back into the wheels, and the sails furled so the wind would not slow them down. Having done that, he turned to Astoria again. The redheaded woman was already thinking again, looking at something so far away the artisan could not see it. He cleared his throat to break her reverie. “What would you have the ship´s name be, then?”

“Oh.” Astoria turned toward the water again, crossed her arms and closed her eyes, a serene smile on her lips. After a moment of thinking, she knew she had the right name. “How does Triumph sound to you?”

"I am no poet, my lady, but that name does sound... more than adequate."

"In that case, four weeks from now, the Triumph shall have her maiden voyage." Having made her decision, Astoria leaned on the railing and allowed the fresh air to play with her visage and her hair as the ship headed home at best speed, on its way to a bright future.

 

[Killigrew]

Sweet Lullabies​

Ludwick WurmsThe wine jars had spilt their last drops. Upon the tile, the red stained into pure white, smearing along the ballroom floor. A man covered it with his woman, squirming, and took her away by the hand. Laughter echoed hollowly in Ludwick's ears. He traced the brim of his glass, eyes locked on the crimson.

A chill ran down his spine. Ludwick quickly stood, reaching a hand out to take a woman, drawing her with him onto the dance floor. He let the music cover his ears, but as soon as he opened his eyes, they were on the stains again.

"An illusion," Ludwick murmured.

"Pardon me, sir?" The woman gently traced his back.

He could see her now. Brown curls and a freckled face, by no means beautiful, but there was a low sway in her hips that was pleasing to the eye. His smile slowly spread. "Your beauty is an illusion -- a foreign light on this wicked earth."

"You flatter me," she tested him, turning her head away.

"Forgive me, I did not mean," he brought her back with two fingers against her chin. "I forgot my place."

She searched his eyes and sighed. Slowly, the woman leaned into him. "I would not mind it if..."

A low pulse pushed his chest as the music swelled into its climactic end. He turned her hand and he followed, spun in slow turns until he caught her, and lead her down on his arms. Her powdered neck was slick with sweat, like a snail's slime. The bridge of his nose brushed her throat as he brought her to her feet.

She let out a breath, eyes bright, lips upturned. Ludwick bowed low, and she extended her hand.

"Might you keep my side tonight?"

A booming voice cut in, and the woman stood upright, shaken.

"Eleanor."

The curled beard only covered the top portion of his heavy golden medallion, a barrel chest and meaty arms, the size of a man that would best a room in a brawl, but his hair was grey, his eyes carved with wrinkles. Ludwick recognized him -- the vassal of Lord Erickson, a peasant warrior that had earned his place in Kildra's civil war.

The woman curtseyed and hurried to her father's side. As the second song spread over the floor again, Ludwick retreated to the opposite end of the ballroom.

He felt the looks on his back. An upstart mud-face, trying to woo his way into a noblewoman's bedsheets. He knew the whispers even if he couldn't hear them.

"Ludwick, Wine-Man!" The table he approached had a small assembly of merchant-Lords. The man in the center called out. Alvus of Dunderbrook bore curled white hair and a bright red nose, large cheeks and a belly that folded over his belt. The man had a love of wine. That's what Ludwick was here for. "At last, I have you alone!"

"As alone as one can be in a crowd," Ludwick answered politely, a wane smile on his face.

"Come, join our company!" With gusto, the old man gestured to the seat across, small eyes squinty from mirth. "Tell us where your fine nectar has come from!"

A snarl flashed white. The lone Nomasdae leaned back in his chair as Ludwick took his. It was typical of their breed to despise any they could. They were so full of hatred, for it poured into them day by day, that they sought to spill over onto the one that was weaker than they. The Kildra would tolerate but the Nomasdae could not endure a half-breed.

Ludwick began the tale in a low and quiet voice.

The wine was bottled in the sunshine hills of Boar's Den on the eve of the final battle of the Queen's war. The chestnut flavor was from the years stowed in deep caverns, and the hint of berry came from the wild mountainside, where bears crept in forests and struck fear in the vine-master. The tale goes that the night before Boar's Den, seven men from the Queen's party sought refuge. They were scouts, and they knew even the Prince's whereabouts.

"The seven were stowed in the vinemaster's barn when the Prince and his men came looking. The vinemaster was beaten and tortured, but he would not give away their hiding place, no matter the Prince's demands." The story was all propaganda, but Ludwick told the lies with a somber expression. "With his last breath, the vinemaster gave his vineyard to the seven men, for he loved the queen more than riches. More, even, than his own life.

"So the wine you now drink, they bottled with berries to give it that crimson hue, such that it would not be forgot: the blood spilt from the vinemaster's veins that day in the hills of Boar's Den."

A spell of silence covered the table. Then Alvus of Dunderwood took his glass of wine and hefted it high. "To the vinemaster and to every brave man of wine!" The others followed suit, but Alvus of Dunderwood did not, like them, stop at a sip, but downed his entire glass, his head falling back and the crimson making streaks down his cheeks. "Another!" He declared as he placed his glass upon the table.

"I am afraid we have exhausted what wine you purchased." Ludwick pushed his glass into the table. "But you may finish mine if you desire."

Without a thought, Alvus took Ludwick's offer and downed it again.

"A truly fine wine." The old man said.

Ludwick couldn't agree more.

As the night drew to a close, and most had trickled out the door, Alvus of Dunderwood lay alone on the table, his breath rising and falling in heavy ebbs and flows. His wife stood outside the door, calling to her servants for help. As she looked the other way, a dark figure emerged and reached into Alvus' leftmost pocket, retrieving an array of papers promising passage on a new invention.

The papers would find themselves in Ludwick's pocket as he returned home.

He whistled as he felt their weight.

 

[Kayso]

Trickster314 as Vincent / Kayso as Garrus / King Ad Rock as Sef

Location: The Badger's Tail Tavern, Iorn, Kildra
Date: Month 6, Day 15
Time: 8th hour of the evening​

Garrus stood outside the Badger’s Tail once again, the early evening light slowly pouring over the hills and mountains that cradled Iorn in its lush embrace. Things were going to get serious, and he needed a drink.

Upon entering, Garrus scanned the room. At this hour it was much more lively on this side of the door than out on the streets where the good people were rushing back to the comfort of their homes, for every hour of the day was a good hour for drink, and this was where the drink was. Garrus chose a seat at the counter, usually preferring to keep his back to everyone but the bartender. It kept his hearing sharp and he didn’t have to look at a shoddy sea of ugly mugs. He made his order and hunched his back, crossing his arms on top of the counter. He was in a grim mood, though tinged with adrenaline that made him feel buzzed, explosive, like he was flickering and might simply disappear. He would likely disappear before the day was through, that was true enough.

He had half-expected to see the young Vincent, still slumped at his stool at the end of the counter, just as he had left him that morning. The man looked as if all he had left was the drink, and if that was the case, he wouldn’t stay away too long. The bartender placed a mid-sized glass in front of him, filled to the brim with an amber liquid, which Garrus took immediately with a curt nod. He had finished it halfway before he heard a sound at the door.

~​

Vincent entered the Badger's Tail after browsing the festival in a drunken stupor. The day had started off well enough, Vincent was not attacked by the city guards meaning he had not revealed too much information about his earlier conversation, and even managed to earn a bit more money by betting on the fights.

Of course, this was before he overheard the news that the false Queen was in town. Upon hearing this news Vincent's mind was cast into turmoil, did he escape unseen in case he was recognized? Or did he take the chance, and take his revenge no doubt forfeiting his own life? More importantly, would his pride survive fleeing again from the whore, this time without even drawing his sword?

Inevitably Vincent turned to drink in an attempt to hold off on making a decision. His mind would be much clearer the next morning, Vincent reasoned. With this in mind, Vincent returned to the Badger's Tail seeking a bed for the night.

Scanning the room, Vincent spots the man from the other night. The one with the grudge against the whore, Garrus was his name. Hoping to seek some advice in this uncertain hour, Vincent approaches the man's table.

"Greeting, friend." Vincent says as he sits down next to Garrus. "Get me something strong." He says to the barmaid, as she comes for his order.

~​

Garrus laughed a little. “I knew you would come.” he replied to his new companion. “I had hoped to enjoy your stimulating conversation one more time.”

“So how has your search gone?” Vincent asks after taking a hearty drink from his cup.

My search… Garrus thought to himself. What does this man know? After a moment spent collecting his thoughts, Garrus responded in the most cryptic manner possible: with another question.

“What is it you think I’m searching for, my friend?”

Hearing the tone behind Garrus’ words, Vincent assumes that Garrus also had similar animosity towards the queen. Deciding to try to get more information he asks. “Not a great fan of the whore queen, are you?”

“Far from it. Suzane has caused me more grief than I ever cared to experience in my short life, and people I cared about are gone because of her. The only people I cared about. Revenge… you could say that’s what I’m searching for. You could call it a grudge, call it useless, call it selfish - call it whatever you want. For me it is a higher calling. A kind of destiny. Though, if nothing else… Garrus briefly thought back to his days of torment, when his life had seemingly ended. He couldn’t eat, for the desires of the flesh were of no consequence; he couldn’t sleep, for he had been plagued by nightmares to no end. He had wanted to die. “If nothing else, at least it keeps me from going crazy.” Bringing his glass to his lips, he thoughtfully gulped the remaining liquid down.

Upon hearing his answer, Vincent decided to make his offer to help in Garrus’ plans. With the drink beginning to take its toll on his thoughts, making him say things he would normally never say in such a unsafe place.

“So how about we kill her? Working together we have a good chance of even living through it.” Vincent offers as he continues to drink. However, the effects of the drink was evident at this point, his face was red, speech had become slurred and movements were slow and clumsy. Overall not the picture of a proficient swordsman by any means.

Garrus almost choked on his final swallow. How did this man continue to seemingly know his every move? Was he losing his touch? He always managed to stay one, two, even three steps ahead, but Vincent had appeared out of nowhere almost as if he had been by his side the whole time. It was making him uncomfortable; he had to end it now. In a hushed voice, he whispered,

“No, Vincent. I work alone.”

Garrus slid his glass forward and placed a few coins on the table. Feeling for the slighted youth, however, he didn’t want to seem too harsh. He had his own revenge-his own destiny that he was seeking. He understood. Placing a hand on his shoulder, he thanked him for his offer. “I wish you the best, young noble.”

~​

“No, Vincent. I work alone.” Said Garrus as he got up to leave, just before leaving the door he leaves Vincent with a few parting words. “I wish you the best, young noble.”

Now normally Vincent would have taken these words in the spirit they were spoken in, however, due to the huge amounts of alcohol in his veins, the message was completely misunderstood.

How dare he patronize me! Vincent thought to himself, smashing his cup on the table. He thinks me unable to kill that whore doesn’t he? Unworthy of help in such an important matter, or does he not consider my skills enough? I’ll show him, I’ll show them all………. A man’s pride could only take so much, after all, the rejection combined with the intoxication set Vincent’s mind on the unwise decision of assassinating the Queen.

With thoughts of vengeance, Vincent ordered 3 more glasses of hard liquor. “Arg… and get me a slice of sausage.” he added. Vincent called out to the barmaid, searching his glass for any more of the remaining alcohol. Even in his drunken state he was under no impression that he could possibly come out alive. If he was to die, then why do so sober?

“Here you are sir, are you sure you are alright? You’ve had quite a lot to drink already.” The barmaid asked as she set Vincent’s order on the table.

“I’m fine, leave me to my drink!” Vincent yells, as he contemplates his plans. Startling the barmaid and causing her to quickly back away while muttering under her breath.

“Ungrateful bastard”

“Bastard hmm…. Hahaha” Vincent chuckles, hearing her comment. “I am a bastard, aren’t I. To think the heir of the Florians brought so low…” Vincent says as he picks up his first glass of Whiskey. “Brother to your memory” He says as he raises the glass before drowning it, wincing at the burning sensation. “Father… you coward, I will regain our honor.” He drowns the second glass, finally picking up his last glass of the strong drink before toasting the gods. ”I care not where I may go after my death, but may luck be with me today.”

~​

The front door to the Badger’s Tail tavern swung open with a loud creak and a jingle from the bell overhead that alerted the barkeep and bar wenches of entering patrons. Terstin, the middle-aged Kildran barkeep of the establishment, greeted the slightly bruised visitor with a less than enthused and mumbled “hello” while drying off a glass mug. In stepped Sefariu Setaro, fresh from his win in the fisticuffs tournament against “The Wyrm.” He was not too worse for wear after winning his bout and only sported a few bruises on his chiseled chin and cheeks. As strange as his opponent was, his skill in combat had earned Sef’s respect. But had Sef earned the people’s respect like he had been intending? Well, There was still one more fight.

But for now, he was here for an entirely unrelated matter. The young noble had come not only for a drink, but to also send a message to a certain person.

Sef surveyed his surroundings and found the tavern was bustling with activity. Not surprisingly so with the tournament. A lute was being played lightly in the background by a tall tavern bard. Sef’s head very slowly pivoted as he studied the face of each and every customer. It did not take long for him to find what he was looking for when his eyes fell upon a certain pair at the barkeep’s counter. Sef made several determined steps forward only to almost bump into one of the hurrying bar wenches. The pretty young blonde was able to steady the wooden tray in her hands that had several empty ale mugs. She became startled once her distracted blue eyes looked up and she seemed to recognize who Sef was.

“M-M-My apologies, my lord!” she struggled out. “S-Sa-?” She could not recall his family name. This was to be expected, being a new house.

“It is Setaro.” He finished for her. “And I am no lord, that is my father.” He attempted to correct her. She smiled at him. Not a flirty smile, but one that gave off the impression she found what he said to be quite naive.

“You’re all lords to us, lord Setaro.” She said continuing her condescending smile while hastily moving past him. He nodded somewhat to himself after her departure as if in recognition of what she said.

“I suppose she is right.”

Sef turned his attention back to what he had mainly came here for. He moved for the empty stool at the counter to the right of a short Kildran man who was conversing with his target. The stench of hard liquor poured off of the man like a filthy waterfall. Sef made sure to move quietly and to keep his outward attention off of them so as not to tip them off. While keeping his smiling attention on the barkeep, he tried to prick an ear and catch bits of their conversation, but there was none to be heard. He could feel a tenseness in the air between the two.

Did they know who he was? It did not matter. Sef suddenly called over one of the bar wenches to his side that he draped one of his toned arms around. With a loud voice so the two men by his side could hear him clearly, and also a hint of sarcasm in its tones, he questioned her,

“My lovely, I am looking for someone. Do you think you could help me?” The woman giggled at being called “lovely”. This one did not seem to know exactly who he was.

“I’ll try. Who are you lookin’ fer?” Sef playfully smirked at her causing her to blush before continuing.

“Well, rumor has it, he is actually a former noble. You know, one of those who got their titles stripped at the end of the war.” Sef’s pronunciation and inflection were over the top. He was not speaking for her. She pursed her lips as if she was heavy in thought.

“I have also heard he is really popular with the women around here. A real handsome fella, some might say.” Sef fluttered his eyelashes at the bar wench and she giggled some more. “An ale, barkeep!” He called to Terstin with a raise of his free hand, his other cradling the young woman. Terstin could see that Sef was more interested in conversing with the wench then using her for her services and with a sigh, began pouring a drink into a mug.

“So, do you know of any handsome, disgraced nobles frequenting this establishment and sweeping women off their feet?” Sef asked, almost throwing his voice behind him while taking his drink from Terstin. But before the bar wench could answer him, the man with the overwhelming booze aroma slammed his cup down in apparent anger, both shocking and catching the attention of all those immediately around him.

~​

As the drink burned its way down his throat, Vincent rose from his seat and was about to make his way to his room filled with grim determination bolstered by liquid courage. However, just as he was about to leave his table he heard a few lines of conversation, the voice speaking was loud and spoken with an inflection designed to cut through the noise of the tavern.

“A former Noble. You know, one of those who got their titles stripped at the end of the war.”

Hearing this Vincent became irate, surely the man wasn’t speaking about him, was he? Looking around Vincent saw another man sitting at the counter flirting with the barmaid who delivered his drinks earlier in the night. The man was well dressed and while Vincent was not able to make out his exact features through his drunken haze, he did notice that the man had a few bruises on his face as if he was just in a brawl. Upon realizing who had spoken Vincent focused as much of his attention as he was able to on the couple and continued to listen.

“So, do you know of any handsome, disgraced nobles….”

Now Vincent was certain that the man was referring to him, after all how many other fallen nobles could there be in the tavern? Especially one who was disgraced? Vincent wasn’t someone who had the best temper at the best of times, however, the excessive amounts of alcohol pushed his far over the edge upon hearing the man’s latest statement. How dare some fop only concerned with chatting up bar wrenches mock him?!?

Smashing the glass in his hand on the floor, Vincent rose from his seat to face the interloper. Inadvertently drawing the attention of the rest of the tavern’s patrons including Garrus who had begun walking towards the exit.

“You wish to mock me you b-bastard? Let’s see how much you laugh when I gut you and leave you for dead! Draw your blade!” Vincent screams, his breath reeking of hard liquor and reaching towards his sheathed blade at his side.

“No fighting in my tavern, if you want to start something take it outside!” Yells the bartender who had retrieved a studded club from underneath the counter. The rest of the tavern’s patrons were also becoming more and more on edge. Some looking for the nearest exit, others reaching for the nearest weapon just waiting for the violence to break out.

~​

Garrus narrowed his eyes and turned his body to face the newcomer who had begun asking incriminating questions to the other patrons of the tavern. Since Garrus was skilled at looking uninterested, he chose to observe the man’s behavior from the corner of the room. Upon hearing Vincent’s outburst, however, he determined to step in before the drunken man got himself killed. He was certain the man was actually looking for him.

“Drop your sword, Vincent, you’re hardly in any state to fight fairly.” Garrus yelled, walking up to the two men as the room quieted. As he stepped in between Vince and the newcomer, he faced the latter with a jovial smile.

“You won’t find a man more handsome or disgraced than me, stranger.” Taking a bow, he finished with the same smile. “What can I help you with?”

 

[King Ad Rock]

A collaboration post with​

King Ad Rock as Queen Suzane Hildren & Chancellor Virin​

Orikanyo as Eliza Quinn​

Location: Coliseum of Iorn, Iorn, Kildra


Date: Month 6, Day 15


Time:The twelfth hour of morning (12:00 P.M.)

_____​

The crowds in the street’s collective roar was beginning to be drowned out by the chanting and stomping feet coming from inside the arena as the carriage finally arrived at the massive coliseum. An aging Virin stepped an oversized boot outside of the carriage as his chancellor robes grazed upon the ground. He stood outside quickly with his rather tall frame popping up from the open door. His lips were tight and his wrinkled face showed signs of annoyed fatigue. Approaching him on his right side with a professionally brisk pace was Captain Ysolde of the Sisters. The young female knight gave him a nod before speaking gently,

"Chancelor Virin, I hope you had a comfortable journey today, we're ready to escort the Queen Regent.”

Virin had always liked Ysolde. She was polite, respectful, and dutiful. So for this, he attempted to hide his annoyance. Whether it was caused by the Queen’s wild and unpredictable behavior or something else entirely was not evident. Virin paused and turned to stare up through squinted eyes at the impressively colossal structure before them. It was built by the Iornia family centuries ago with old nomad slave labor, and was said to be able to seat tens of thousands of spectators. The grand size of it was almost too much to comprehend even standing in its presence.

"Yes, the journey was fine.” Virin answered while turning his attention back to Ysolde. The chancellor struggled for a tired smile and gave her directions, “Just two of the sisters will accompany us into the booth. Do not want it to be crowded. And make sure your knights do not throw their weight around too much and that they please respect the city guard during the entirety of our stay.” Virin raised his thick, graying eyebrows as if to say, “Please ensure this, I have enough on my hands.”

Captain Ysolde replied to Chancellor Virin with a kind smile right before she almost immediately responded to the commands he issued. "It will be done Chancellor and I will personally remind every single Shieldmaiden and Squire Sister that they must be on their best behavior."

A still giggling Queen Suzane burst from her side of the carriage, flinging her door open with childish glee. Gripped tightly in her right hand was the dainty wrist of her new companion as she practically dragged Eliza into the morning sun.

"Finally! I felt like a hen kept in her coup for too long!” The Queen joked loudly before her gaze was entranced by the gigantic structure before her. “Oh my… I have forgotten how large it truly is.” She could hear the enormous wall of sound emanating from inside and feel the vibrations from it. Suzane’s smile grew across her face as she whipped her head around to meet Eliza. Her blue eyes were alive and full of electricity. Her own blonde braid flew around her like a whip. “Are you ready!?”

They had arrived at the cleared entrance of the Coliseum. Upon their arrival, the crowds entering and exiting were dispersed by the guards of Iorn to allow the Queen a clean and clear path to her booth. Two armored guards painted in the blues of Iorn marched towards them from their positions by a side door, and swiftly dropped to their knees in a bow before the Queen. One of them spoke in a hurried and nervous manner, although it was hard to tell which with their helmets.

“We are humbled by your arrival, your majesty! Lord Kindrel has sent us to accompany yourself and the others up to the royal booth.”

Suzane smiled at them but rolled her eyes as she did. As her eyes sarcastically turned over in their sockets, her gaze fell upon the man that was exiting the carriage behind their own. For a brief moment the playful look on Suzane’s face melted away, and was replaced by one of disgust. The moment passed as quickly as it came and Eliza was possibly the only one to catch it. That is, If she was paying attention at all.

The man who had gained the distrustful look was General Sindor Erikson. He was a man of just above average height who seemed to give off a cold demeanor even from a distance. Sindor still had a decently full head of medium length hair for a man of his age that connected to a well kempt and short beard. Suzane tore her short glare from her military commander and brought her intentness back to the guards that had greeted them. “Yes, yes, enough gentleman. On your feet! Lead the way, for I am famished!” Suzane’s playful tone had signaled that whatever perturbed her an instant before had washed away from her mind. With yet another sparkling wink, she turned to Eliza again.

“And I am sure you cannot wait to eat as well, right Eliza? Is that stomach still speaking up?”

_____​

Eliza's eyes were darting all around her, standing close to the queen like a child in a unfamiliar place. it also didn't help the Queen had one HELL of a grip on her, but perhaps that was to keep her out of trouble. but the sun felt... Very nice today, almost as if it was shining it's best for the Queen she was quickly befriended. Eliza held her tongue on making a comment on her commenting on how large the stadium was. She was in front of royalty! She couldn't be making jokes like that!! Or.. Could she?

She tried to summon up the courage... But her next line stopped her, to which she simply nodded, flashing a earnest smile before she was off once again! Brought forward by the jovial Queen to the massive building before them! With crowds parting for them, and guards clad in armor bowing to her, well, the Queen; she felt almost like royalty herself! Like she could very well order them to dance a silly jig and they would do so in a heartbeat!! Maybe she would meet gallant knights who'd sway her heart and sweep her off her feet!? Though... it'd be a short lived affair, she was in the end common, as much as she was admittedly unique. ...Affair in the sense of an event, not a-

Why was she correcting herself?

She knew what she was saying!

Not like anybody else could hear her thoughts anyways.

Said thoughts, however, were interrupted by Suzane making a face she had not seen yet. Like she had just watched the neighbor's dog come into her house and shit on the carpet, a face her mother had when that exact situation happened. "Ummm..." she was about to question what she saw, before she traced her glare to a man not to far off. he was.... handsome, in his years. Of course Suzane's face didn't exactly win him any points regardless of that fact.

But now the joy was back in Suzane's words and form, without a word to the new man she brightened the mood once more for herself and the thoroughly confused Eliza, or should we say, at this point, Eliza in her normal state of being. Confused, lost and hoping she's doing well. Like two young lovers experiencing each other for the first time, but with less accidentally kicking your partner and worrying your parents will catch you.

"Ah! Food! Yes I am positively famished!" the woman finally spoke up for the first time since being dragged out of the safe confines of the carriage. Sure she sat near a grumpy old man who looked unhappy about... everything... but at least there she was enclosed and not being watched by thousands of people. there was a distinct difference in being watched as you sell something, and being watched by the complete populace of Iorn as you get dragged around like a living ragdoll.

But now was the final stretch towards the food she had been so promised! Oh yes, her stomach was ready! Ready to devour what bounty Suzane puts within her reach... Within... Reason.. Of course...

"Goodness, so many people." she exclaimed, looking at the massive crowds of bodies flailing for her companion's attention. "I could swear I've gone deaf from all the shouting." she let out a small sigh, fighting the urge to put her fingers in her ears... Wouldn't look good on the Queen's companion. of course, what she had also began to hear as they came up the stairs was the sound of her own footfalls... Remembering her rather... unceremonious choice of footwear.

Clunk, clunk, clunk, clunk.

She sounded only slightly less armored than the guards, but there was no time to change now... If only she put on her good boots before this!

"What competition will be going on next? Have we missed jousting? Or, is there jousting at all? Sounds kinda fun to watch really." she tried making small talk, avoiding the fact she sounded two times as heavy thanks to the stairs.

Oh! But her slowly rising embarrassment is soon to be over it seems, the end of the stairs is in sight! Sweet freedom! SWEET SUSTENANCE!! SWEET-!!

....

Other nobles in the box before them....

huh....

She stared ahead to the duo, standing beside Suzane as her eyes gave them both a once over. First one she noticed was the tall white haired T'odis man. He was... handsome? Eliza wouldn't be finding herself swooning anytime soon, not that she'd ever. he was dressed like a guard more then a nobleman, so maybe he was the other guy's swordsman?

Speaking of the other guy, he seemed the spitting image of the type of person you'd simply imagine as a "noble," if you were asked to imagine one. Though for some ungodly reason she had the slightest thought that she should be watchful of what she says around him.

And what he says to her...

She took a glance back to the shieldmaidens that came with them, feeling better that some of Suzane's guards were nearby. Not to mention there was a fellow redhead, admittedly, she looked rather kind for a shieldmaiden... Now, her eyes turned to Suzane, whom she hoped would do the talking, because Eliza didn't know these guys from squat! As she stood there waiting for... something to be said she rested her finger atop of her chin, her head slightly cocked to the side. Curious of these new people, who keep her from her meal.