Plagued by a Rose [concluded]

[Trombone Geek]

Lance didn't meet Kuvria's gaze after she spoke, staring at the wall in thought. She refused, again, and Lance knew that if Cecile wanted to rule the Rose Kingdom she'd have to do it herself; he couldn't help her. People before your heart, Lance reminded himself firmly. Kuvira spoke of his coronation, and Lance was about to interrupt that there was no way he could return to his kingdom until he had the cure in his hands; his determination to carry forwards would be enough. However, the queen was already gone. With a sigh, he turned to Dante. "Get some rest," he said in a tired voice, and Dante nodded once, leaving.


The prince--no, king, Lance reminded himself dully--crawled into bed, exhausted, and fell asleep again.


"Of course, my lady," Maeve answered, using the title she always had, even after Kuvira's passage into queen. Somehow, she had managed to get away with it, although she wasn't sure why.


"The boy--prince, king, whatever--smells strange," the woman stated suddenly, striding confidently beside Kuvira. "If he had been attacked by a werewolf and cured, he would smell no different." Maeve was relying on her heightened senses for this observation, and it had rarely failed her. "However.. he does smell wolfish."


"After some communication with one of our spies in Bathelon, I've discovered that the wound that killed Varudian was a strange one. His throat was not slit; instead, it was punctured. As if with a Jagdkommando, a new type of knife that the Order just recently picked up. The flesh around the wound was severely torn, like it would've been if the weapon had been twisted; however, with this new type of knife, it would've been a quick stab-and-run. At least.." Maeve's voice lowered suddenly, as if the information she had found wasn't the best thing to spread around. "I've been told that Varudian's body was buried secretly.. because it was stuck between a half-wolf, half-human form. He was a werewolf, and he infected the assassin, who spent a short amount of time to find enchanted clothing without telling the Order before continuing his mission. He couldn't have infected Lance if he tried.. Lance would only have shifted, albeit slowly."


Basically, the boy was already a werewolf, but had a greater control over it than most because he was born with it, and was also ignorant of it, meaning the wolf had never awoken.


"He could be very useful in the upcoming battles. If you request his help, he'll do it gladly. He wants revenge, after all. If we can teach him to control the wolf, somehow, Bathelon will not only have proved its alliance, but Yunakai and Bathelon would be stronger for it."

[QUOTE="Robyn Banks]

Kuvira nodded. Though all the evidence was before him, he still denied it. She wanted to scoff and roll her eyes but she knew that would be disrespectful. "Be careful who you trust Lance, something you will learn on the throne is its better to trust no one than everyone. I had personal experience."




She thought of a memory before thinking same for love.She didn't take her eyes off the window as she continued to speak. " how many times do i have to say no before people start to understand that I don't care to be owed by anyone nor putting my hope in someone that may not be how I want her to turn out. It takes more than just training to make someone a great ruler. So no, I'm not asking you to aid me so I will do this on my own." As the cloaked woman walked in. She shook her head. "No but thank you." She said starting to leave. As she came close to the door she turned to him. "As for your order problem. The best thing you can do is your coronation for now. Show the order that despite the assassin you are still able to take on the role as king. And I'm sure you will be a great one." Before anyone could say a word, she departed with the girl in the cloak. "You will come with me into the rose kingdom. I will need you more than ever."


~~~~~Past~~~~

Kuvira sat in her room alone. Her head hung in shame as the fire crickled beside her. She fiddled with her fingers as she waited. Knowing her fate wouldn't be a kind one. The guard opened the door before her mother walked in, her head up in pride, a symbol of grace, something kuvira feared yet admired. The door closed shut behind her. "'Vira what do you think you were doing? Do you know how foolish its was trying to do things for-" Kuvira rose her head before Happiness... I know. Earlier that day she fell in love with a prince who wasn't next in line. Something that she knew wasn't acceptable in her father's eyes since she was the next heir. Her mother said before approaching her standing by her side. "Will I ever be happy?"

"Happiness is a luxury we queens can't have." Kuvira fell silent. As Rhaella continued. "Something you will learn is the more people you love, the weaker you are. When you are loved you are pushed aside , stumbled on, and abused. When you are feared no one will ever defy you." Kuvira nodded before her mother kissed her head. "You will make a great queen someday if you keep what I say in mind." Kuvira drifted off into thought. I know mother... I know.

​

[/QUOTE]

 

[Spacing Out]

Kuvira stepped in the middle of the halls turning towards Maeve. She was clever and wise. Perhaps a reason why Kuvira kept her close though her inner demon kept her useful as well. Maeve was one of the people she knew she could depend on to complete task even the challenging. She did not only earn her position but Kuvira's respect as a person,giving her more layway than others.She had enough surprises for one day honestly so she didn't seem as on edge as the other news she got prior to that. "Yes you're right. He will be useful for this war and I don't want to risk a chance of losing it. He can teach him on the way to the rose kingdom. It won't be easy but durable. I can give him Wolfsbane Potion. It relieves, but does not cure him. Just allowing one to hold on to their mental faculties after transformation. But I have to make sure I do everything correctly." She had other things she wanted to accomplish before they actually arrived inside the rose kingdom and she would have to put on the list. "Thank you Maeve, I still wonder why I didn't make you my hand. You've benefited me thus far. "
​

 

[Trombone Geek]

Maeve shrugged. "I'd be expected to appear before people, were that my job. You know that's not how I roll," she replied, grinning a bit. "You should probably sleep, though. Before that, however, I need to know how long we're taking for preparation, how many soldiers we'll need, how many of the Wrythriel we'll need."


Elishir dei Wyrthriel, the 'Shadow of the Dragon,'was the name of the stealth force Maeve commanded. The bunch had existed for years, formed almost right after Yunakai's rise, along with the Dragon Guard. It was usually split into squads, and each squad had a healer, mage, melee fighter, and long-ranged fighter, just in case they came to a face-to-face confrontation, or if said battle was planned. Each squad was taught to move as one, following the movements of their leader; and each leader learned to move as one, and thus the whole group could attack and disappear into the shadows without a moment's notice. Each squad was known by the name of a mythical serpent; Maeve's own group was Nensenth, the name of an old subterranean dragon-serpent that was rumored to still exist.


((Okay, so so far I have two military organizations for Yunakai: Wyrthrekk, the Dragon Guard, and Elishir dei Wyrthriel, or Wyrthriel for short, which is Shadow of the Dragon. Obviously, since it appears in both names, 'Wyrth' is 'Dragon' in Old Elvish, with a mistranslation to 'Wyrm' in ancient texts. The Dragon Guard is up-front, in-your-face military, and has divisions named after dragons of myth. The Shadow of the Dragon is the stealthy bunch, obviously, and is named after serpents or Japanese/Chinese Dragons of myth, although they're just called serpents in general.


Two things:


One, none of these words are actually 'Old Elvish' or anything in any fantasy game/book/movie ever, I'm just making up random words. GO ME!!


Two, no, I will not make a more organized explanation. Not right now, at least. Too lazy.))

 

[Spacing Out]

Kuvira smiled back softly before looking her way. "Some of the navy had already left to invade the western border of the rose kingdom tonight. I plan to bring 5,000 men for now and 10 squads from the Wrythriel. For my trip I don't think I will need that many men. I plan try to gain support of the people of the rose kingdom turn them against their monarchs. Which I will not say will be easy but if it leads, I will conquer the cities by force." She said before looking out of the stainless window. "For preparation.Wyrthrekk is ready to move forward but I will make sure that Wrythriel is set as well." She placed her hand in her head before letting out a heavy sigh. "Perhaps I should rest. But we cannot leave until I have a general idea of what Our guests are planning to do with their time. I will tell Prince Lance the news in the morning. I think it would be best if we all rested." She nodded towards Maeve. "Allin tuta (Good night)" she said moving towards her chambers

​

 

[Trombone Geek]

"I will make preparations for Wrythriel; they will be ready tomorrow morning. Sleep well, my lady." After all, Maeve's demon could keep her body running for weeks without rest, although it could be fatal in the end. With a bow, Maeve left in that mysterious way the Wrythriel had mastered; she did not turn and leave. She was simply not there anymore.


Maeve had actually left through the window, choosing the roofs of the castle to be the quickest way of navigation. Her footsteps were nearly silent as it was, without trying to mask them. After she reached the edge, Maeve took a flying leap out into the city, landing easily on a church roof and continuing her run. She was forced to shift for the next jump because of how far down she would go, since she had reached the commoners' houses. She continued like this, on lighter paws now, and eventually reached the edge of the city. There, she slowed, and slipped into the shadows of an alleyway, where she shifted into her human form again and walked out into a park-like hidden area, with tunnels leading below ground for each of the squads.


Here, magic hummed busily; only those who were a member of the Wyrthriel and those who were invited could come here. While not as grand or large as Valpurnia, the place was hidden just as well. From the sky, it seemed like a normal house, and felt like one too; from the ground, it was just the ending wall to a dead end.


Each tunnel had a letter of the alphabet above it, although those letters represented the beginning letter of a serpent's name. Maeve entered the tunnel with an 'N' above it first, and woke her group, telling them to spread about and wake nine others-- Alduresh, Firnen, Jenseth, Katla, Pendelwydth, Rhaegal, Temeraire, and Viserion. The oldest groups in Wyrthriel. The others would stand by, and be ready to move in towards the Rose Kingdom if reinforcements were needed.

[QUOTE="Robyn Banks]

Kuvira smiled back softly before looking her way. "Some of the navy had already left to invade the western border of the rose kingdom tonight. I plan to bring 5,000 men for now and 10 squads from the Wrythriel. For my trip I don't think I will need that many men. I plan try to gain support of the people of the rose kingdom turn them against their monarchs. Which I will not say will be easy but if it leads, I will conquer the cities by force." She said before looking out of the stainless window. "For preparation.Wyrthrekk is ready to move forward but I will make sure that Wrythriel is set as well." She placed her hand in her head before letting out a heavy sigh. "Perhaps I should rest. But we cannot leave until I have a general idea of what Our guests are planning to do with their time. I will tell Prince Lance the news in the morning. I think it would be best if we all rested." She nodded towards Maeve. "Allin tuta (Good night)" she said moving towards her chambers

​

[/QUOTE]

 

[Enuky]

Cecile was not at all comfortable with being touched. There was something about living alone that caused her to distrust others. She looked to Lanister with confusion before attempting the spell. "Ignitus!" Once again, there was no flame. She groaned, appearing impatient. "What's wrong with using my staff?" she snapped at him. She saw no reason to learn to use her hands.


It was in that moment that a floating flame appeared in the air. Cecile's blue eyes lit up as she wondered whether the flame was her doing. However, the flame quickly began to dissipate and materialize into a letter. The rectangular envelope fell to the ground at Cecile's feet. She eagerly grabbed the letter and tore it open. Inside wasn't a letter for Cecile, but to Lanister. She continued to read anyway without presenting it to him.


"Sir Lanister,


The Rose Kingdom is in desperate need of your leadership. Queen Kuvira has the strongest of her armies preparing to attack at any moment. We need the Wilting Rose to put an end to this invasion. It is our hope that you will gather your men and come to our aid at once. If Kuvira takes the Rose Kingdom it is only a matter of time before the city of Valpurina is discovered.


Sincerely,


King Thornton Rose & The Emerald Thorns"





Cecile stared at the letter with a look of shock for a moment. She couldn't take her eyes off of that name, but there it was. Her father's signature. She brushed her finger across the name. For her father to request help meant that the situation was much worse than she had anticipated. A queasy feeling came over her stomach. She turned once again to Lanister and snapped, "Why is my father addressing you personally?" She stepped back as the instinct to run sunk into her thoughts. Did he know her father? Without another word, she tossed the letter to the ground and stormed away.


The princess burst through the main doors to her villa and headed blindly into the city. She needed to clear her head about all of this. After a while her brisk pace slowed into a discouraged walk. The city was still sleeping, but the roads remained lit. She eventually found a bench to be seated on. The girl glanced around; she hadn't the slightest idea where she was now. She was surrounded by dark buildings. She looked too the dark caverns above her and sighed.


Of course Lanister would have to protect the Rose Kingdom. The idea of him going to her father's aid was sickening though. Cecile leaned forward, supporting her elbows on her lap and burying her face in her hands. She had just began crying to herself when an scratchy old woman's voice cut through the air.


"Now, now, Cecile, what is the matter with you?"


Cecile sat up and stared around, but no one appeared to be there. "Who goes there?" she demanded. Her face had become red.


"Why it is I, darling, and I have watched over you for a long time", the woman's voice continued.


Cecile stood and grasped her staff, holding it defensively forward, "show yourself!" she demanded. The woman's voice broke into a series of cackling as smoke began to fill the air around them. When the smoke vanished an old woman appeared before her. She wore a loose-fitted black gown and a large, pointy hat. Her hair was long and silver, kept in a tight braid that fell against her back.


The Rose Princess stood silently for a moment, "how do you know me?" she asked.


The woman laughed again and stepped forward. She wrapped her arms around the girl in a warm embrace, "do not fret, child. This is your home now, and you will not ever be persecuted here."


Cecile only appeared more confused as she pulled away. She did not know this woman, or at least she didn't think she did. The woman frowned, seeing Cecile's uncertainty. She spoke, "I came here long ago, child. My people did not understand my talents. I was once a prisoner like you."


After those words, Cecile's eyes widened. She understood. "You're the witch!" She began to circle the woman, eyeing her closely. It was as if Cecile had discovered lost family.


The woman smiled, "Yes, I am." The grandmother of Lance, and the former queen of Bathelon.


The princess hesitated before speaking again, "I want you to teach me everything", she said to her.

 

[Enuky]

Shortly after that Cecile was brought to the woman's home. It was a quaint and cluttered home full of fascinating things. The woman took Cecile in as if she were her own child, "I knew that one day someone would find my writings", she mentioned multiple times.


The very first thing the woman did was prepare hot tea for the girl. The two sat together in a round table with a magic orb sitting in the center. Then, she was actually eager to learn about Cecile. She questioned Cecile about her history first then began to question her about the present day. Cecile told her everything about Yunakai's declaration of war, the letter, and complained about Kuvira. Upon learning of Bathelon's alliance with the Yunakai she shook her head, "I cannot believe my dear Lance would do such a thing".


Then a sparkle came to the old woman's eyes, "Kuvira sounds like a mean girl to me. Want to learn how I handle mean girls?"


Cecile perked, interested.


The woman then hurried away and returned with a basket full of unusual items. Needles, burlap, wool, and thread. She smiled and began to sew, "watch carefully, dear, you need to learn". Over the next two hours the two sewed, sometimes the woman would stop and let Cecile sew. Finally, they finished. They had created an funny looking rag doll resembling a brunette girl.


The woman then pricked Cecile's thumb and dripped blood over the doll's chest. Cecile was then instructed to hold the doll in her hands. "I want you to concentrate as hard as you can on the thought of Queen Kuvira's face, and chant with me--", she began to chant and gestured for Cecile to join in:


"Ribbons bind and entwine


Your heart, linked to mine


For you, I yearn


For me, you burn"





The woman chanted it over and over again and Cecile joined in. They got louder faster the longer they did it. First the doll began to shake violently and then the entire room began to shake as well. The candle that was lighting the room blew out. Just when Cecile felt as though she was about to lose control of it it all stopped.


The woman cackled softly to herself and lit the candle. "Let's make her sick, shall we?" She took a needle and without hesitation jabbed it directly into queen Kuvira's stomach. She handed the doll to Cecile, "go ahead, darling".


Cecile hesitated and the woman smiled, "you must learn to be wicked, dear". Cecile thought for a moment and agreed. She took the needle and jabbed it into Kuvira's head, "and a good headache for her, too", she said. Cecile also began to cackle then, and the two enjoyed the moment. @Robyn Banks

 

[Spacing Out]

Kuvira awaken to a sharp pain in her stomach. She clenched it before letting out a slight groan. She slowly arose only to follow a pain in her head. This was strange,she was aware of that she didn't feel like this before this was no sickness, or simple headache but she couldn't find the source.

She arose from her bed before standing by the fire. She knew she had to rest, the day would be long and the night even longer. She opened the door before turning to the guard who was in the night shift to make sure she was secured. "I need something to help me sleep if you don't mind. Call a servant or one of my ladies to assist me" She asked as she clutched the handle of the door. She tried to remain poised as she spoke yet her pain made it more challenging to do so.

Tonight was not her night, she knew that from all the damages that occurred. Impressions were ruined and frauds remained in the darkness never to be exposed. She will conquer the rose kingdom and everything that stood in a way. She just had something to collect first. She took out some books and make that she collected from the library earlier that day before rereading her plot. What she was going to collect will show her power. Something that wouldn't be questioned but she had to make sure that her plan worked or it will set her back. She let out a heavy sigh hoping that the pain will go away.​

 

[Enuky]

Cecile eyed the doll for a long moment, "I really hope it worked", she said.


The old woman smiled, "I have much more for you, dear". The two spent the remainder of the night poking needles into the doll and practicing magic. Spell after spell Cecile displayed little progress. Finally, at dawn the woman said, "I'm sorry, my child, but you are simply not ready for war. You haven't the experience for it..."


Cecile appeared heartbroken. Perhaps it should have been obvious to the girl that a mere week of using magic was not enough time. "But I have to... ", she started, "Kuvira is going to take over the kingdom!"


The woman pursed her lips in thought for a moment. "I might know something we can do", she said at last. She then took Cecile's hand and lead her into what looked like a small kitchen. She busily began searching through a pantry and finally returned with a small pouch made from burlap. "Take this, child. Save it for when you need it most and you will have control of your powers".


Cecile nodded with an appreciative stare. The woman then went to the back of the pantry and rummaged more around. While she was searching Cecile peeped into the pouch. She became disappointed by what was inside, but decided to trust the woman. The woman returned with a large broomstick.


"This is for you, Cecile. It was my very first broomstick".


Cecile's eyes widened as she realized what it was. A flying broomstick! Cecile was then given a new wardrobe. Her luxurious dress was replaced with an old black gown and a floppy, pointed hat. The woman smiled the way she often did, "now you're a real witch". Then the woman brought Cecile outside to teach her flying.


Flying was surprisingly easy for the girl to learn. As the witch had explained, the broomstick did most of the work as it was basically just a big medium for magic. After becoming comfortable with flying the woman flew from another broomstick and lead her away from the city. They flew deeper and deeper through the mountain and eventually through a series of narrow caverns. When they found the next large opening Cecile was surprised to find a forest. "How can a forest grow without sunlight?" she asked.


The woman began flying upward to the mountain's inner peak. When they reached the top of the mountain they had to stop flying and walk through a tavern that was too narrow for flying. Finally light began peeking through. They continued until reaching a small opening, "Come now", the woman helped Cecile up. It was just large enough for their small frames to squeeze through.


Now the two stood in the woods. They were somewhere in the Rose Mountains. The sun was just beginning to rise over the mountains.


"Take care of yourself, Cecile", the woman said, "you will always have a place to stay in Valpurina". The woman then turned back, returning into the mountain hole. Cecile looked up wondering where she was. It was time for the day at last. She hoped the woman's gift would be enough. Cecile then took off into the sky, flying at high speeds through the mountain air. She needed to find her brother.

 

[Andraus]

(I am just letting everyone know that this was authorized by @Enuky K )


Lanister took the Letter, and starred at it intensely. Not in his farthest memory had he himself ever met the King, nor did he ever remember using his actual name, he'd always gone by an alias. Placing the letter in his shirt, he walked to the nearest moon-gate, Holding the thought of Cecile to his chest. He worried for her, he wanted nothing more than to be with her right now.......But he knew his orders, he knew what he stood for. He had a duty, and despite his own personal feelings, feelings that he didn't even now he had, he had to go to the city.


Watching as the gate opened for Lanister, and two other assassins, Lanister would simply walk through the gate, as they appeared in the beating heart of the Rose Kingdom. They knew that three people were not enough to stop an invasion, it would be foolish to think that......No, they were there to discuss strategy, and to inform the King to expect an arrival of over ten thousand men and woman, the bulk of the Wiliting Rose's forces.


For the First time in years, the Wilting Rose were removing their shackles, and fighting to win. For the first time in years, they were openly 'defending' the Rose Kingdom.


Kuvira wanted a war......She got one. Lanister planned to make sure that this woman learned that the Wilting Rose would die before she took the Kingdom of the Rose, he swore it.


The Open waves....





Cargo ships of the Yunakai Kingdom, bound for port of call for the Rose Kingdom. They carried many goods that made general life better: Food, Medical supplies, Enchanted items, and entertainment. These trade ships were meant by Kuvira to gain the support of the People of the Rose Kingdom.


A Pity they'd never make it that far.


The sound of Magic fire soared through the air on the waves, Cannons fired hot shrapnel as they crippled as many of the Cargo ships as possible. Those they couldn't, they sunk. As the Raiders climbed aboard, they took everything they could, before looking towards the crew. These were not Wilting Rose......these were pirates, raiders of the seas, and they looked as if they just got the biggest payday of their lives.


"Remember what the bosses said! No witnesses!" He said, as they raised their weapons.....





The Yunakai Docks and Warehouse





The doors would openly slightly as a group of bandits entered the warehouse. They didn't know who ordered the heist, and didn't care: They were offered a lot of money to snatch up as much as possible, and with most of the military already out of the city, it made their job a whole lot easier. They snatched up whatever they could carry: Weapons, supplies, and anything of value.


What they couldn't carry, they were told what to do: Destroy. Pouring as much lamp oil as they could on everything, and as much black powder as they had, all it took was one match, to send the docks and warehouse up in flames. Even if they were caught, what could they say? They got paid to do this by an unknown party, all they did was what they were paid for. There was nothing to link them......





The field of Battle......





The fields where they had camped were normally supposed to be a brief respite before the coming battles......but tonight, they were anything but. Illness was running ram pent, most were sick to their stomachs, puking their guts out. Those few that were still standing were trying to decipher what had happened. It all started after most of the camps had eaten.


Nearby, before anyone was the wiser, a single agent was grinning, twirling a small box in her hand, as she tossed it in a pile.....with all the rest of the boxes. This was simply the work of bad food, who would blame the Wilting Rose over a tainted food? No-one, they'd see it as the incompetence of the Yunakai traders, who couldn't provide proper supplies.





This was War to the Wilting Rose: They didn't wait for the enemy to strike first, they didn't wait for the Enemy to weaken them. They struck the weak points, the veins, with everything they had at their disposal. Now their gloves were off, they were no longer holding their punches. The time for the two armies to clash has come. It's was time to go to war against Yunakai. This would do more than just weaken the Yunakai kingdom.....It would humiliate them, make them seem weak.


and the thought of Kuvira's face when she heard brought a Smile to Lanister's face.





@Robyn Banks

 

[Trombone Geek]

((Halfway through here, I decided to refer to each individual squad as a "serpent." Also, a little guide: clicks apply to an individual squad, and whistles apply to the whole of Wyrthriel.))


After news had spread across the needed squads, they had gathered their supplies and everything they would need. Maeve herself had just finished slipping into the uniform the Nensenth squad wore on battle; the cloth was bronze, matching the color of the Nensenth himself, although the mask had no markings besides the lines that ran to the eyes and down the cheeks. Maeve took off towards the castle again, her group of three following behind her easily; something was wrong, and they all felt it.


With a shrill clicking that only those who wore Nensenth's masks could hear and understand, the group veered left, as easily as if they all shared one mind. Another sound, and the bunch was off again, towards a foreboding red in the distance that wasn't the rising sun. As the Nensenth Wyrthriel reached the docks, they saw what it was. A trail of thieves, bandits, bearing the colors of no kingdom, trailing out of Yunakai's burning warehouses and staggering under the weight of supplies.


Two short clicks, and the group was off, spreading out and surrounding the docks. The other nine squads approached as well, and fanned out, staying carefully out of sight. A long, loud whistle, still inaudible to those who weren't wearing masks enchanted by the Wyrthriel, and the mass of 30 assassins suddenly surged forwards as one, each taking one target and killing them smoothly before retreating again.


This was one example of the terror Wyrthriel could cause. They could bring down entire kingdoms in an instant; they were less well-known that the Wilting Rose, but rivaled them with ease, even with their smaller force. It was said that they had to power of dragons behind them, and with Yunakai's lost art of dragon riding, it might as well have been true.


Other important places in Yunakai were not left unguarded--there were, after all, 16 serpents left. Two squads were assigned to the city's largest cathedral; five were sent to the palace, with two of those five guarding specifically the queen, traveling the specially designed rafters of the castle. Three were sent to Yunakai's main gate, and the remaining six were spread randomly throughout the city.


After watching the bandits stumble about for a bit, three syncopated whistles signaled the command to end the battle. This time, Wyrthriel didn't retreat after their attack; the bandits, made clumsy by their fear, were wiped out with ease.


Maeve commanded four serpents to stay behind and douse the fires, and summoned a black cat, sending it off to rouse the Dragon Guard remaining in the city. They wouldn't go into high alert, quite yet; if they did, then the Wilting Rose and its allies would have no chance of slipping into Yunakai again. For now, they would be more at ease. She sent the other five serpents off into the city, and quickly took off towards the palace to report the sudden attack.


She shimmered into being before a sick Kuvira, her other teammates appearing behind her and politely remaining silent. Maeve didn't remove her mask, but spoke normally through it. "You decided to get sick now, my lady? Unfortunate timing. The docks and warehouses have been attacked and partially burnt down by bandits.. I suspect the Wilting Rose is behind it. It was too organized and too large scale of an attack for it to be by their own initiative."

Spoiler

This.. but brown/tan/bronze, obviously, and without all the shinies..

 

[Spacing Out]

(Ooc: oh BTW the army didn't leave yet only a few navy ships also they were only diguused as merchant ships so there was no real supplies.The army and the real supplies were going to leave with kuvira but thanks for the heads up.)


Open waves..


Admiral Lenin on one of the disguised war ship dressed in a elite merchant clothings commanded his 'crew' Its alright lads, just let them take what they want. They will leave soon enough. Lenin stood silent from there. Watching the pirates take a few 'supplies' he watched a couple of ships sink beside his."Remember what the bosses said! No witnesses!" One of the pirates said, as the others raised there weapons. Lenin swiftly took his wand from his pocket before shouting "ancelautio!" As a burst of light flew out of his wand as disintegrated the pirate into ashes. "Men attack for Yunkai!" He said as the cannons of the navy ships started to take down a few of the pirates ships. Sailors withdrawn their wands as they ridded the ship of the heathens. The cannons Burst almost felt like it could deafen him as he unsheathed his sword, yelling a battle cry. The remaining had to make it out alive for yunkai... The rose will soon be theirs.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Kuvira stood up surprised. The news was quite surprising she wasn't expecting the wilting rose to attack so quickly but of course they weren't predictable to begin with. "Protect the bathelon king and Dante. I must secure their safety. The must've heard of my plan to take the army men. I must reduce the amount for our leave. We leave soon after a reassure my people. My uncle will be in control during my leave. As well as Grandmaster Vladan watching over the remaining army. I want to borders and the seas to be well protected for now on. Make sure that the navy patrol the seas as well as some men patrol the land. But before I enter the rose kingdom I need to retrieve something first."
​

 

[Trombone Geek]

Maeve nodded, and a whistle called those serpents lurking the castle to her. After quickly ordering all but one group to spread into the city, Maeve sent the remaining serpent to the docks to check on progress and round up any bandits left. After about ten minutes, the original 9 groups (again: Alduresh, Firnen, Jenseth, Katla, Pendelwydth, Rhaegal, Temeraire, and Viserion) returned.


Maeve laid a hand on Kuvira's shoulder, murmuring a nondescript phrase that would hopefully lighten the queens pain, although there was a barrier keeping Maeve from entirely curing the 'illness.'


"Someone has a vendetta for you, my lady. Perhaps Cecile has learned the art of darker magics? Ones dealing with dolls, to be exact," Maeve murmured as eight serpents left to patrol the castle and the ninth went to rouse Lance and Dante.


The future king of Bathelon opened bleary eyes to a sudden knocking on his door. Judging from the darkness outside, it was still closer to early morning. What was going on?


"Come, prince," a quiet, girlish voice urged quietly. Too confused to be cranky, Lance slid out of bed, shooing the random girl away in order to get dressed.


"Gather whatever you need," came the voice from outside his door. "Leave nothing behind unless you have no use for it." Lance frowned, but complied, strapping his longsword around his waist and, subconsciously, the Rose Kingdom's crest as well. As he felt his fingers close around it, he had but one question: Why did Cecile leave it behind with him?


"Quickly," came the voice, and Lance checked around for a moment to make sure he had everything before wrapping his brown travelling cloak around himself and leaving the cozy room. There were three people outside, all dressed in the same shades of blue with the same grinning masks, and the girl from earlier couldn't be told apart from them. With a faint hum of magic that Lance could barely feel, they took off towards Dante's room. Lance followed as quickly as he could, but in the end had to rely on memory to find Dante's room, as the three had disappeared.


When Lance finally arrived to Dante's room, she was emerging, lightly armored as usual with her greatsword strapped to her back. With a nod exchanged between the two, they followed the strange masked trio until they came to yet another trio, wearing bronze, and.. Kuvira?


"What's going on?" Lance asked, and something urged him to look up; there, he saw the faintest shadow. There were more masked figures above, too? He'd never heard of Yunakai employing such a thing.

 

[Enuky]

Cecile flew high into the air and could see all of the mountains, but then she heard a distant commotion. Curiously, she altered her direction until she saw it. There was an ongoing attack on the ocean. Cecile zipped by like lightening and continued around the mountains until she reached the eastern border of the mountains. She hovered around a cluster of mountains, looking hard into them until she finally spotted a clearing with what looked like the remains of an old campsite.


She landed, and began to step through the desolate camp. There were bathelon symbols along the remaining flags. It was a camp that had been completely wiped out by the plague months before. Decomposing bodies littered the ground. It was so cold that they were almost kept preserved.


This was where it had all began. These were the people who had captured her. She walked solemnly through the campsite before venturing in the woods. I must be close she thought as she began searching more frantically.


"Who goes there?!" a harsh voice called from somewhere. Cecile froze and looked around. She couldn't see anyone. She reached for her broom, which had been securely strapped to her back, and was about to run when the voice spoke again.


"Halt! Who goes there!?"


Now she recognized the voice. She turned and looked around, "Thornton! It is I, Cecile!"


Her words were followed first with silence but then she was suddenly scooped up. She yelped in surprise, where had he been hiding to jump out like that? It was indeed Prince Thornton. His red hair was shaggy and fell past his ears. He wore a tartan kilt and cape along with light armor covering his torso. Now he was embracing the girl and kissing her cheeks and hands. It was very clear that there was much love between the two.


"Oh, Cecile. Cecile. I knew your precious soul could not have left this earth", he hugged her tight then placed her before him. He looked her over from head to toe and stopped at her eyes. They had the same eyes. "What have you been through?" he asked in a serious tone.


Before Cecile could answer he went on in his excitement, "Cecile, we must tell father that you're alive!"


He grabbed her hand and started away but Cecile stopped. Cecile could not believe that her brother thought that she was dead. Her father told him that she was dead! A new level of hatred came over her for him. "No...", Cecile said.


Thornton stopped, he appeared confused, "don't be silly, sister", he said.


"Father knows where I've been", she said.


Thornton was taken aback. "That's impossible", he spat. "Father has grieved for you like all of us".


Cecile said nothing and looked away. As Thornton began to realize the truth his eyes became livid.

 

[Andraus]

"It appears we are not the only one that had been fooled. "a voice said. Lanister approached, his two men in tow. Lanister was surprised, but not displeased to see Cecile there. He quickly made his way over, and held up the letter. "Cecile, I will let you know this now: No-one outside a select few know my name, I've made sure of that. This letter was not sent by your father, I doubt he'd let his pride allow it. "He said, lighting it aflame.


He then turned towards her brother.


Lanister knew that the Wilting Rose and the Ruling Monarchy had a.....begrudging relationship at best. They kept the Kingdom safe, and they were free to do it their way. Lanister would then move to stand beside Cecile. "You're Prince Thornton, correct?......I wish to inform you that you must prepare every asset of your military and naval power: You're soon going to be at war. "He said to him. "You're Sister, Cecile, was to be brought under proper escort, but time is a luxury we do not have, as of now, all of our assets are converging for a defensive line in the mountains. The Grand-Masters no doubt have slowed the Advance, but it will still come. "He said to him. "I am here to inform you that the entirety of the Wilting Rose.....will stand behind your sister, Cecile. We will do everything in our power to aid her."Lanister said, true conviction in his voice.

 

[Spacing Out]

She nodded in appreciation towards maeve as she healed her. Only leaving a bit of pain that was bearable. As she murmured the words. Kuvira's face was notably furious. Such a petty voodoo trick was being used against her but that's what she would expect from the princess. "That's wouldn't be a shocker. I'll live through it, the pain will go away gradually. Thank you." She said before handing her previously packed bags to her guardsmen. She was already dressed since she didn't have time to rest and thought she might as well prepare.


She exited the room with Maeve and her squadron. Instead of her usual dressed she wore a body suit. Crossing her arms as she turned towards the masked woman. "I might as well tell him about his...predicament while I'm at though I don't know how please he will be hearing ir from me." She turned around to see prince lance approach her asking what was occurring. "The docks and warehouses have been attacked and partially burnt down by bandits.. We suspect the Wilting Rose is behind it.It was too organized and too large of an attack for them to gave accomplish that alone. Since you are in my country, you are my top priority. Though I have the navy and army patrolling land and sea. I have to make sure you are safe but I an a woman of choice. If you wish to return home I can send you back with a Wyrthriel squad escorting you there or .. You can stand beside me as we enter the rose kingdom. I know you want revenge on what the rose kingdom has caused as well as I want it to be put under a different line of rulers. Together we could not only improve our kingdoms but others as well. I am a woman of choice so I will not force my decisions on you. However I will still need a company of ships and men from your forces." She said to him. Her pain was gradually depleting though she wished it would leave her sooner. She looked around to see her subject before walking up slowly to him. There is something else you should know..." She cleared her thought making sure she said this diligently."I've been told that King Varudian's body was buried secretly.. because it was stuck between a half-wolf, half-human form. We have reason to believe he infected the assassin before the assasin made his attempt.The poison wouldn't have affected you since you are a werewolf already. The reason you haven't turned into one yet is because of you're ignorance towards you being a hybrid." She stopped before Him.

"If you come with me. I can't cure it but I can help you control it. Starting with this." She said tossing him a bottle with a silver tip filled with a dark brown colored liquid. "Wolfsbane potion. It will help you maintain you're mental state after your... Transformation." She said awkwardly awaiting his response.
​

 

[Enuky]

Cecile was the next who spoke, "Thornton, the war has already started. There is a battle going on right now in our oceans. Even Bathelon is fighting against you. I came here to urge you to leave with me. The Rose Kingdom is about to fall".


Indeed, Cecile's true purpose was revealed. She had no interest in saving the Rose Kingdom, but in protecting her brother. The twins stood there silently staring into the other's eyes. Their eyes were perfectly mirrored. Thornton hesitated for a long moment, "sister, I cannot abandon my kingdom. I am the heir to this throne". Anger reemerged in his eyes, "I have to speak to father".


Cecile frowned and reached for her broomstick. A look of shock came over the prince's face when he finally noticed Cecile's strange new look. "Are you a witch?" he gasped.


The princess let out a soft sigh as what would have to happen next sunk into her thoughts. She smiled faintly to her brother, "I did what I had to do, brother". She then hopped on her broomstick and was gone before Thornton could intervene. Without her brother, the agenda for Cecile changed. Now she would have to protect the Rose Kingdom. The girl placed her hand over her heart where the small pouch was secured in her dress.


From that point forward Thornton moved quickly. He had a long way to travel to return to the Rose Kingdom. After walking a short distance from where they stood in the woods Prince Thornton came upon a small river. He followed the river until a medium sized waterfall came into view. From there, he crossed the river by jumping across onto rocks and stepped into the waterfall. Behind the stream of falling water was mostly blocked by a rock wall, but with close inspection one would find an open slit just large enough for most to slip through.


It was a secret entrance into the kingdom for Royals, and a place where Cecile and Thornton would once play as children. The inside of the small cavern was peaceful and lead into a long tunnel that cut through the Rose Mountains and eventually opened up directly into the kingdom. He lit a torch that hung by the entry and began his journey through the mountains.


When Thornton returned home it was clear that word of the battle spread to the city. All around the special forces were gathering in strategic locations. They were preparing to protect the kingdom at all costs. The civilian subjects were no where to be seen; they were hiding in their homes. Thornton did not waste any time. He went directly to King Thornton.


King Thornton stood before a large window of the castle. He was observing the special forces as they prepared. Thornton spoke from behind him, "I know that Cecile is alive". The king slowly turned to face Thornton. He wore the same red tartan kilt and cape that Thornton wore. The cape was secured with a royal crest similar to Cecile's but larger. He was a big man with long black hair and a long black beard; both were freckled with spots of grey. He had the same blue eyes as his children.


The king let out a long sigh and frowned, "I knew this day would come. Come with me, son. There is much you need to know." The two then walked to behind the castle to where the royal stables resided. They rode matching white stallions and Thornton followed his father's lead away from the palace and to the base of a nearby mountain. His thoughts were spinning as he considered his next moves.


At the base of the mountain there was what appeared to be a small mine. The king lead his son to the mine entrance and they stepped into it. It was not long before they came across a wide opening that glimmered like water. The ground and the walls of the cave were made from a stunning type of crystal that grew in the Rose Mountains. The two men's eyes appeared to glow when surrounded by the luminous blue crystals. Thornton was stunned by the beauty of these crystals and he asked, "what is this?"


"That is the cure to the plague."


Thornton's eyes widened, "and what does this have to do with our Cecile?"


The king sighed, "Son, they wanted the cure. We could not give them this because there are not enough mountains here to support other kingdoms. They would be mined away. Surely you can understand that our kingdom needs the Rose Mountains."


Prince Thornton's face was overcome with a look of livid disgust as he understood. "You abandoned Cecile at the hands of our enemies for a rock?" His voice was becoming angrier and his thoughts cloudier. He could not believe what he was hearing, but rage was brewing.


The king fumbled for words, "I knew you would not understand. I have always known you have the heart of your mother!" The king's wife died shortly after giving birth to the twins. She was a kind and loving woman, and the king never did name a new queen following her death.


The mention of his mother was the straw that did it. Thornton shouted, "There is no mountain that I could not destroy for Cecile!"


Now the king also became angrier. He began to yell back, "Son! You listen to me because the king knows what is best. Your womanly nature needs correction. Cecile is of little importance to this kingdom! She is just a girl! Your kingdom must always come before a silly girl!"


"Your daughter should be protected no matter what!" Thornton yelled in response.


"Why? Why would I protect that spoiled brat!? If it weren't for that girl, your mother would still be here!" his voice bellowed through the sparkling cave, creating an echo effect.


The prince gasped as a whirlwind of emotions flushed over him. "You blame Cecile!" he shouted in shock as loud as he could. The shriek echoed painfully though the cave. He had discovered the root to his fathers actions and a disgusting truth. The man blamed his daughter, the "extra" child who could not be an heir, on his mother's childbirth death.


Before anything else could be said a rumble began through the cave. The crystal floor at the king's feet suddenly began to crack and in a split second the king plummeted through the ground. The sound of his screaming and crash to his death echoed throughout the cave until a chilling silence fell over it. Thornton sunk to his knees and began to tremble. He puked. He could not believe what he had just caused. He sobbed softly to himself for a brief moment before raising unsteadily to his feet and starting his way cautiously to the entrance of the mine.


He entered the cave as a prince, but now he left it as a king.

 

[Andraus]

Lanister would be awaiting in the royal palace, as the rest of the Wilting Rose were preparing for battle. His place was here, to defend the royalty.....Lanister, however, could not shake the feeling of dread in his gut. He knew this was what he trained for, what he practiced day and night for. He's killed before, that was never an undisputed fact, but for some odd reason, he felt himself go cold at the thought of fighting in an open war......what was this feeling he had? He didn't even know.


(Sorry it's short, but I really don't know what to do with Lanister at this point.)


@Robyn Banks


An agent would approach Kuvira. She looked like she had just been on the losing end of a very heavy brawl. There were sword wounds, but none were fatal, they looked like they were meant to immobolize. "My lady.......I had news you might find interesting. "She said, kneeling before her. "It seems.....that the last son of House Azarus has finally returned home. However, we ran into slight difficulties......I take full responsibility."she said, as she explained what had happened......


Two hours ago....


Yaro was approaching the capital of Yunakai, with a caravan. They were carrying many exceptionally heavy crates, though there were barley any guards. Yaro himself was sighing as he walked the streets back to his old home. "Yunakai........Home......At least it was, until I fucked everything up......"He said, as he got closer to the city. However, when he did, he saw 'very' familiar agents approach him.


"What the.....can I help you?"He asked, trying his best to be polite. It wasn't every day you get a visit from the Queen's own special forces.


"This is a security check before you enter the city. If you do not comply, we will force you." The Agent said, as that was her orders.


"I don't see why but......go ahead?"He asked. He had a long couple of months, and he just wanted to return home, so he thought the quicker he got through this, the quicker he could get home.


As they searched his belongings, Yaro got the distinctive impression that something happened, they all appeared to be on edge. However, he was stopped when one of them drew a blade. "We found this-"She tossed Yaro's silver mask on the ground. "In your belongings, Rose. You're under arrest for conspiracy against the Queen, will you comply?"


"The hell? I didn't do anything so no. Im not even a wilting rose anymore"He said, before blocking an attack by one of the agents. Placing his hand in his pockets, he pulled out two gloves, before he began casting deflection spells at the magic the group cast. When one got close, he flipped in the air, before kicking them in the back of the head, knocking them out. He would then draw his sword, and use it to disarm the rest. When he came to the agent that started this, he'd reach into his pocket.....and tossing down a handful of gold rings and jewels.


The agent would simply stare with wide eyes. "What....?"


"You were just following orders. No bad blood, no foul. Trust me, if I wanted you dead, you'd be dead. However, you might want to get a couple of people fixed up. "He said, before looking back. "Oh by the way, I got a message for Kuvira. Tell her...."


Present time.....


"He said to tell you that he 'looks forward' to talking to you again, and to meet him at the Azarus estate when you have time, so that they could 'swap stories'. "The agent recited, keeping her head down.

 

[Enuky]

@Andraus


The prince solemnly returned to the palace by foot, leading the two stallions with him. He felt nauseated. When he neared the castle the special forces were still out and about, watching and waiting. He reflected on the fact that none of them knew yet he was king. Finally, he reached the castle. The Wilting Rose leader Lanister was waiting there.


As Prince Thornton entered the palace he was greeted with a guard notifying him that the Wilting Rose had sent a diplomat, but the king was nowhere to be found. Prince Thornton did not answer the guard, and instead made his way through the castle and to Lanister. Thornton had a sick look on his face, but he stood tall and spoke in a dignified way.


He bowed slightly to Lanister, "I will be meeting with you today on behalf of my father, King Thornton". The young Thornton decided that he was not ready to share the story of his father's death with anyone.


"I would like to express appreciation on behalf of the Rose Kingdom for your assistance in this war. Your men did a superb job delaying the attacks of the Yunakai nation...", he hesitated. He couldn't get his mind off of his father and Cecile. He worried especially for his sister's whereabouts.


He took a deep breath, "The Yunakai nation should have more forces arriving soon. Is there anything you require to prepare?"

 

[Trombone Geek]

((Sorry for the really short post.)) "I will do what I can, but I'm afraid that you won't get as much as you may expect from Bathelon. Must of the kingdom has fallen ill.." Lance listened carefully to Kuvira's next words, and surprisingly didn't flinch at her revelation. He was surprised, that was for sure, but he realized quickly the 'curse' would be a boon. So he kept quiet for a moment, thinking carefully.


"Thank you, Kuvira. I don't know much, but I know that getting ahold of this potion must've been difficult," he said as he caught the small bottle, observing it.


"I will accompany you to the Rose Kingdom."


When a soldier suddenly approached, Lance back away, feeling that whatever had happened wasn't his business. Maeve took special interest, frowning at the news.


"Yaro? He's back.. He was great at his job. I wonder if he'll rejoin us.." Maeve said, her hand hovering over the more severe wounds of the soldier and healing them. When she finished, she respectfully stepped away, waiting for Kuvira's response.

 

[Spacing Out]

Admiral Lenin





Admiral lenin ripped his swords out of the pirate watching the light fade from his eyes. He looked around at the damages out of the 10 ships of sailors only 5 stayed afloat. "Try to find survivors from the damages. We have to get moving to make it to Mereen beforehand the sun is fully risen." The sailors nodded before completing their task. He retreated to his cabin. Closing the door behind him. It would Be a matter of time before they arrived to their destination and all he had to do was wait for the time to strike.





When they arrived to the port. Lenin shouted only one word. "Fire!!" The cannons flew into the hair but instead of hitting other ships it landed on the land. Soldiers charged out with their swords and wands, ready to takeover the city. "Do not kill any women or children the orders but she didn't say anything about keeping the city intact!" Houses burned to the ground as women and children started to scream in the terror of it all. Men fought and died being left on the cold floor as others stumbled upon them trying to escape the horroes of it all.This wasn't something Lenin was proud of it but it had to be done. He could already see the yunkai flag draped over the city. Such a sight it would be and they will make it to that point soon enough.

Kuvira

"Good to hear since I will not take us long to arrive there and I appreciate your support." As an agent approached she turned before nodding in acknowledgement. "What is it?" As the agents hung his head in same as he spoke she expected bad news but had something far from it.""My lady.......I had news you might find interesting. "She said, kneeling before her. "It seems.....that the last son of House Azarus has finally returned home. However, we ran into slight difficulties......I take full responsibility.He said to tell you that he 'looks forward' to talking to you again, and to meet him at the Azarus estate when you have time, so that they could 'swap stories'" she heard Maeve's murmur soon after about his job. "Yes he did do well before he decided to betray his own people for our enemies. And you know how I feel when I deem someone a traitor." She said giving a look of disdain at the information she's received. She was furious at the fact the agent thought nothing about him being a spy or that she should've arrested him. But no matter. "I will not hold back my attack any longer. If he wants to meet tell him I will be at ceithre lasracha ("the fouteen flames")." She said before commanding that 4 horses be brought to her. When they were, she turned to the others. "Choose your horses and let's get going." She saddled herself on a dark horse. Before looking down at the commander Vincent " We will rejoin by the mountains before entering the Rose kingdom." He nodded before leaving to move out his men. Kuvira took a glance at Maeve known she would catch in one what she was hiding. Kuvira wanted something that hasn't been seen in centuries, something that was awesome yet feared. She wanted a dragon.
​

 

[Enuky]

(OOC: Keep in mine, everyone, that a year elapsed since Cecile was found in the snow, so it's winter again. I keep forgetting that)


A long line of special forces erupted from an inconspicuous domestic building. Then another across from it also ejected a line of special forces. There were easily two hundred so far, and hidden throughout the "homes" were bases of special forces waiting to attack. The war had begun. The battle was taking place in a small western village that was still pretty far from the kingdom's capital and towards the base of the mountain range. The special forces wore full body armor that was black in color and black kilts over the armor. Their faces were also completely covered. They wore enchanted gauntlets to control their spells.


A heavy downpour began over the battlefield. The special forces all at once began controlling the rain drops, freezing and sharpening each drop into small icy blades and directing them at high speeds towards the Yunakai naval forces. There thousands of these frozen spears being flung through the air at them as the rain poured.


Other special forces avoided the combat and instead ran from home to home, putting powerful barriers up around domestic buildings to try and protect as many homes and families as they could.


Away from the battlefield Cecile sat at the edge of a steep cliff, a safe distance away. She was at the southern border of the Gallica Pass. She would wait for the right moment to enter the battle. All did not appear to be lost yet. She wondered when Kuvira would arrive, and she couldn't help but wonder if Lance would arrive. She was now dressed like her brother in a red kilt and cape with armor around her torso. The uniform was clearly more worn than her brothers, and this was because she was actually wearing armor that was once her brothers at a younger age when he was still close to her size. The cold rain was unbearable, but the girl waited. Next to her was her broomstick and staff and in the sporran on her side the pouch from the witch was secured as well as her Kuvira doll.

 

[Trombone Geek]

Lance tuned out whatever comment Kuvira made, well aware it wasn't his business, but couldn't help but overhear Kuvira mention the ring of mountains known as Ceithre Lasracha. Those were one of the few words Lance knew in Old Elvish; the Fourteen Flames. What was so important there, he didn't know, although myths claimed it was the home to dragons.


But dragons didn't exist, so why would Kuvira be going there? Lance didn't bother to think on that question, but instead chose a chestnut horse and mounted. Dante mounted a gray one, and seemed to be rather apathetic. Thinking upon it, Lance realized that Dante hadn't even looked surprised when Kuvira revealed Lance's trait of being a werewolf.


Rather than speak to her about it, though, Lance kept quiet.


Maeve nodded; Kuvira had always been sour about betrayals and those who orchestrated them.


"To Ceithre Lasracha? Hm.." Maeve said to herself. When four horses were brought up, she shook her head.


"I would prefer to travel by foot, my lady. You know how animals are.." In fact, the one remaining horse was rolling its eyes back into its skull and whinnying nervously, stepping away from Maeve and barely resisting the urge to bolt.


"My group and I can keep up," she reassured Kuvira. "And if not, they will know where I am." She didn't mention that she could always shift into her other form if she had to, of course, because not everyone here knew her abilities.

 

[Andraus]

Yaro would, after receiving the Summons, fix up his gear. It was now a mixture of noble attire and travelling gear: His cloak, stamped with the symbol of the Azarus Household. Blue, black, and white had been his families traditional colors, and his family had a history of Dragon-Riders, back when there actually were enough dragon's to ride. It was how Yaro's family came to be one of the many Great Houses of Yunakai, not to mention many were Ardent Royalists. Though, from what it seemed, if this was how She treated people loyal to her, than Kuvira had changed from the time he last saw her. He knew she was furious when he chose to create his own band of adventurers to travel the world with, instead of saying as her agent. She probably thought of it as a betrayal, due to the fact that Yaro had not explained his reasoning why.





Just another one of the many mistakes he'd have to live with for the rest of his life, he thought to himself somberly.





Pulling on his Elven Mytherial cuirass, Steel arm guards , and steel knee guards, he opted to take his weapons with him: He just felt more comfortable with them, after travelling with them for so long. He thought, positively, that Maeve would be interested to see the design of his rapid-fire crossbow. It wasn't like many people made it life that, or actually made like that AND it worked. He was proud of it, and he'd hoped to show it off proper.





Slipping on his gloves, he placed the sword over his hip, before looking in a mirror, feeling that something was missing. In truth, he liked the way he fit the look of an adventurer. It was a child-hood dream: First working with the Wilting Rose, and seeing the Magnificent city of Valpurina, then becoming an agent in his homeland, defending it from threats. However, as he grew older, he began to dread the thought of not seeing anything out there, so he left his position, took some friends, and made his way in the world.......





the thought of his friends made Yaro realize what he was missing. Another one of his failures.





Yaro shook the dark thoughts off his head, and put on a cheery demeanor, before leaving the house and making his way to the Fourteen Flames. It was time to confront his past.





Lanister looked towards the king. "Most likely, they'll try to find an alternative way around.......We destroyed merchant ships holding soldiers, so they can't use the navy to take your ports, but we must be vigilant. I suggest any water-way access be under strict guard. "He said, trying to keep his head clear. "Also, Don't worry about protecting the 'whole' mountain. Protect Gallica pass with as many as you can spare."He said to him. "We'll be taking our forces, and heading into the mountain edges. We've siege-breaker weapons that will prove pivetable in the battle ahead, but there is something I need your authorization for...."Lanister said.


Lanister would then look over at the Mountains. "If possible, they'll throw everything they have at us.......we must respond in kind, and we have one way to do so.....The Wilting Rose have, in it's possession, tamed monsters and demons. Before I can use them against Yunakai, I need your complete compliance. "He said to him. Lanister would than look him dead in the eye.


"I am willing to commit myself to my vow, to fight and die to defend this land. I need to know you'll do the same, Thornton. This will be the greatest battle of our age, and it can go both ways if we're not careful. "He said to him.

 

[Enuky]

(OOC: @Robyn Banks You don't actually have to rush anything. I just have this bad tendency of being bitchy. That was like my initial reaction to realizing I misread the post but now that I've taken time to think about it I'm not bothered LOL...)


The prince shook his head, "there are no waterways big enough for ships leading through the mountains. Only in the Gallica Pass." The prince then paused, considering Lanister's next words. His worries blanketed his thoughts in a cloud of doubt, and he suddenly did not trust his decisions. What was the right choice? He wished his father was still there to make these choices. Allowing monsters and demons into the kingdom could lead to trouble if the Wilting Rose could not control them.


Prince Thornton could not shake the feeling of sickness in his stomach. I killed King Thornton, he kept screaming internally. He wondered if it would ever be discovered that it was he who killed King Thornton.


It was in that moment that a special forces knight entered briskly through the castle. "Prince Thornton", he bowed, "the Yunakai navy has made it to our outer villages. The king is no where to be found. We are holding them off, but we do not know for how long". It was still raining heavily outside; a painful mix of frozen sleet and rain.


Thornton's blue eyes widened and he turned back to Lanister. "I give you permission to use whatever forces necessary to get these invaders out of my kingdom". He stopped and let out a quick gasp, hoping none of them would notice that he had referred to the kingdom as his own. He regained his composure as best he could and continued, "I will always stand beside the Rose Kingdom".