Fantasy The Nature of Ice

[Thanny]

Oro was pleased of herself, and glad that her opinion was taken not only into consideration, but also into plan. With this, hopefully she would be further in the emperor's and the council's favour, and perhaps become empress of the lands herself. She leaned back in her seat, trying to keep her face neutral as she took this success with joy. It was a shame that her recommended agent was considered dead, but she truthfully was not of strong opinion of him. He was a tool, nothing more, and one that served a purpose in the end.

The others, or at least a majority of them, seemed to nod in agreement, though Oro scratched her chin. She pondered if this would backfire but removed the thought from her head. No, of course not. People are like sheep: they will follow orders and dictates of the herders almost without fail, and deviants would not win in a game of control when military was involved. This was so, at least in her mind. Contrary to public opinion, she was not a benevolent ruler, but a manipulative one.

"My Lord Emperor," she started off, looking toward him, then toward the envoy. The small dragon had popped his head up to listen in more closely, having stayed silent, and having not been dismissed yet. "While your imperial troops prepare, I recommend having all agents in the area collect their notes of suspected rebels and provide them to the soldiers upon their arrival. Such would provide more suspects to interrogate, and this one can disseminate the news."

The small dragon started shaking again, bowing his head and looking at the ground. He did not want to be caught by the emperor of looking up at him, or seeming as an eavesdropper.

 

[Dragonborn1]

Oro was pleased of herself, and glad that her opinion was taken not only into consideration, but also into plan. With this, hopefully she would be further in the emperor's and the council's favour, and perhaps become empress of the lands herself. She leaned back in her seat, trying to keep her face neutral as she took this success with joy. It was a shame that her recommended agent was considered dead, but she truthfully was not of strong opinion of him. He was a tool, nothing more, and one that served a purpose in the end.

The others, or at least a majority of them, seemed to nod in agreement, though Oro scratched her chin. She pondered if this would backfire but removed the thought from her head. No, of course not. People are like sheep: they will follow orders and dictates of the herders almost without fail, and deviants would not win in a game of control when military was involved. This was so, at least in her mind. Contrary to public opinion, she was not a benevolent ruler, but a manipulative one.

"My Lord Emperor," she started off, looking toward him, then toward the envoy. The small dragon had popped his head up to listen in more closely, having stayed silent, and having not been dismissed yet. "While your imperial troops prepare, I recommend having all agents in the area collect their notes of suspected rebels and provide them to the soldiers upon their arrival. Such would provide more suspects to interrogate, and this one can disseminate the news."

The small dragon started shaking again, bowing his head and looking at the ground. He did not want to be caught by the emperor of looking up at him, or seeming as an eavesdropper.

Gaul pondered the decision.
“It is settled then. Tell all agents to send their notes to the imperial guards, not a single one will be left out.”
Gaul instructed the Envoy.
“Go, you have your instructions. Leave at once!”

The council watched as the Envoy left. Gaul again rubbed his brow with his fingers.
“The council is dismissed for now.”
He stated.

All chairs were slid back as the council members left. Gaul too was leaving. He headed towards the archives to hopefully find a map. He’ll then plan out an attack…

 

[Thanny]

The envoy shriveled upon being barked at and rose to his feet in one motion, worried that trouble may be on his heels if he did not pay heed as quickly as that. He passed through the meeting doors once he knocked on them and the guards heaved the doors open again, refusing the possibility of eavesdropping outside the room. He had his instructions and would follow them to the letter if it meant keeping him and his family alive and well.

Oro was pleased enough to keep everything as-is and packed up like most others in the room, gathering her belongings and walking out with the grace of aristocracy.

Meanwhile, the chief archivist poured through her records in the imperial archives, analysing two documents pertaining to mathematics and jotting down notes on a separate volume. Anyone in the room would see that she was engrossed in her trying to understand these documents, not just to kill time but also out of genuine curiosity. The door was closed shut, dust drifting from the many stored tomes resting in the library and flitting into the open light of windows and incandescent bulbs fitted inside, as fire was not permitted inside such a precious, nigh holy location. So many rare books, documents, and relics were stored here, to be kept safe . . . and also out of the public eye.

The chief archivist knew her dedicated mission for the emperor, but she also hoped to spread at least some knowledge as well: useful but harmless knowledge. Such things can make lives better, and her silver scales glinted prismatic light in most locations where the sunlight struck her. She was a light dragon much like Shine, Glacier's fellow guard, and carefully moved to keep her scales flat.

There was no bell on the door, and if he so wished the emperor could open it quietly or loudly if he wished. Like all libraries, quiet is a general rule, but emperors entering make an exception.

 

[Dragonborn1]

The envoy shriveled upon being barked at and rose to his feet in one motion, worried that trouble may be on his heels if he did not pay heed as quickly as that. He passed through the meeting doors once he knocked on them and the guards heaved the doors open again, refusing the possibility of eavesdropping outside the room. He had his instructions and would follow them to the letter if it meant keeping him and his family alive and well.

Oro was pleased enough to keep everything as-is and packed up like most others in the room, gathering her belongings and walking out with the grace of aristocracy.

Meanwhile, the chief archivist poured through her records in the imperial archives, analysing two documents pertaining to mathematics and jotting down notes on a separate volume. Anyone in the room would see that she was engrossed in her trying to understand these documents, not just to kill time but also out of genuine curiosity. The door was closed shut, dust drifting from the many stored tomes resting in the library and flitting into the open light of windows and incandescent bulbs fitted inside, as fire was not permitted inside such a precious, nigh holy location. So many rare books, documents, and relics were stored here, to be kept safe . . . and also out of the public eye.

The chief archivist knew her dedicated mission for the emperor, but she also hoped to spread at least some knowledge as well: useful but harmless knowledge. Such things can make lives better, and her silver scales glinted prismatic light in most locations where the sunlight struck her. She was a light dragon much like Shine, Glacier's fellow guard, and carefully moved to keep her scales flat.

There was no bell on the door, and if he so wished the emperor could open it quietly or loudly if he wished. Like all libraries, quiet is a general rule, but emperors entering make an exception.

Robotic humming came from outside the door. Whirring as it twisted the knob on the door. The figure of the emperor striding in was a sight to behold, with his height having to duck under the frame.
“Anything to report? How were the bombing runs staged for this morning? How many did we loose? How successful was the mission?”

He asked his robotic claw stroked the table. Taking a glance to the documents. Then he moved elsewhere in the library. Taking down some documents for himself a map. Unfurling it on a empty table Gaul stared at it gesturing for the light dragon to come over.
“Here, there was a mineral mine we created. It’s been empty for years. Yet, we need to find more crystals. Time is running out.”

He slouched over the table. “Where are the reserves? The crystal reserves meant for emergencies. Don’t tell me those are empty too.”

 

[Thanny]

The light dragon leapt before she peered over her shoulder, heart sinking when she saw that the emperor was standing there. She made no sudden moves to hide her occupation, as she wondered what he would suspect. Probably nothing, but probably everything. She instead tossed a smile in his direction in acknowledgement and listened with solemnity, adjusting a magnifying glass fitted before her right eye.

"The bombing runs were successful, with results highly in your favour. In comparison to the sixteen we lost, the enemy's productivity should be gummed up but good, halting progress for years."

She felt the brush of fear chilling her back as she listened to herself. She was anything but military, but she could state such numbers so callously. And she did not even state the number of enemy casualties, whether they be civilian or military. She did not know that much because the agent and military did not stick around enough to give a count, but she felt the count was catastrophic. She blinked as she watched the emperor move further into the room and gesticulate for her to approach. She did and looked over his shoulder as he pointed out map locations.

"Reports said that the vein of minerals ran out and that there was no evidence of more where they searched. Looking over the map layout seemed correct, but I will check to see if they missed something," she spoke pensively, searching through her memory.

While not eidetic, she had a pretty good one, and looked over to where the maps lay, neatly tucked away on a shelf. She gathered them and returned, unfurling the slightly yellowed and crinkly paper.

"The reserves are being used, but it is nearly three-quarters full still. I believe there will be enough to last three months, or a year if sparingly used, but you are correct. More is needed. There are two other mineral mines of the same type, but they are dangerously close to our borders. There is also"--she leaned in close to the emperor, pointing to a spot close to the mountains south of the palace--"this one, but its productivity is running slower than expected. Less yield for some reason."

 

[Dragonborn1]

The light dragon leapt before she peered over her shoulder, heart sinking when she saw that the emperor was standing there. She made no sudden moves to hide her occupation, as she wondered what he would suspect. Probably nothing, but probably everything. She instead tossed a smile in his direction in acknowledgement and listened with solemnity, adjusting a magnifying glass fitted before her right eye.

"The bombing runs were successful, with results highly in your favour. In comparison to the sixteen we lost, the enemy's productivity should be gummed up but good, halting progress for years."

She felt the brush of fear chilling her back as she listened to herself. She was anything but military, but she could state such numbers so callously. And she did not even state the number of enemy casualties, whether they be civilian or military. She did not know that much because the agent and military did not stick around enough to give a count, but she felt the count was catastrophic. She blinked as she watched the emperor move further into the room and gesticulate for her to approach. She did and looked over his shoulder as he pointed out map locations.

"Reports said that the vein of minerals ran out and that there was no evidence of more where they searched. Looking over the map layout seemed correct, but I will check to see if they missed something," she spoke pensively, searching through her memory.

While not eidetic, she had a pretty good one, and looked over to where the maps lay, neatly tucked away on a shelf. She gathered them and returned, unfurling the slightly yellowed and crinkly paper.

"The reserves are being used, but it is nearly three-quarters full still. I believe there will be enough to last three months, or a year if sparingly used, but you are correct. More is needed. There are two other mineral mines of the same type, but they are dangerously close to our borders. There is also"--she leaned in close to the emperor, pointing to a spot close to the mountains south of the palace--"this one, but its productivity is running slower than expected. Less yield for some reason."

Gaul listened to the female talk rubbing his chin.
“We’ll have to provide more workers towards that area.”

The place the female pointed was a town, WinterGreen. He’s heard of such of place. A mining town in which civilians utilizes the crystal for everyday life.
“Have them move more workers towards WinterGreen.”
He instructed.

Gaul then remembered another reason he was there.
“Is there any maps of the ravine close by to the palace? Any reference to perfect ambushes are needed.”

He stated, turning, his yellow pupils almost glaring at the female.
He needed it at once, hopefully she got the message. It was very important. Crucial even..

 

[Thanny]

The chief archivist nodded in assent, happy that she did not get barked at for getting close to the emperor's presence. That was not a very smart thing on her behalf, now that she thought about it.

"I will offer more incentives for new workers and redistribute the workforce after talking with the chief of staff. But maps of the ravine? Ambushes?"

He seemed very grave, so she tapped her chin as she searched the library, peeling it apart into sections mentally with her gaze. After a number of seconds she figured out where she had left such maps and slipped away to pluck three off of the slightly dusty, tall shelves in three different spots.

"These," she started, unfurling one topographic map after another and loading their edges with paperweights, "are the best spots I can think of on the roads leading through the ravine, all on the north side facing the palace. The terrain works to our favour if setting up an ambush. There are a number of sizable rocks in the location to hide troops here at Raven Pass -- I have lived around here, so I know -- and the other two are hilly here and here on Turtle Pass and Brokenrock Turn, allowing good cover for archers and infantry. When it comes to flight, however, it would be easy to see them."

 

[Dragonborn1]

The chief archivist nodded in assent, happy that she did not get barked at for getting close to the emperor's presence. That was not a very smart thing on her behalf, now that she thought about it.

"I will offer more incentives for new workers and redistribute the workforce after talking with the chief of staff. But maps of the ravine? Ambushes?"

He seemed very grave, so she tapped her chin as she searched the library, peeling it apart into sections mentally with her gaze. After a number of seconds she figured out where she had left such maps and slipped away to pluck three off of the slightly dusty, tall shelves in three different spots.

"These," she started, unfurling one topographic map after another and loading their edges with paperweights, "are the best spots I can think of on the roads leading through the ravine, all on the north side facing the palace. The terrain works to our favour if setting up an ambush. There are a number of sizable rocks in the location to hide troops here at Raven Pass -- I have lived around here, so I know -- and the other two are hilly here and here on Turtle Pass and Brokenrock Turn, allowing good cover for archers and infantry. When it comes to flight, however, it would be easy to see them."

Gaul scanned the map he imagined where troop placements wound be.
“We’ll have to see about the weather for this ambush as well.”
Gaul smiled,pleased with his achivest with the maps he was shown. He carefully rolled it back up after taking the weights off.

“My soldier’s will need this.” He stated, before he opened the door, the dragon didn’t even look back to her as he left.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

The briefing room with filled with the soldiers, guards and all. Everyone fidgeted in their seats.
“So what’s this all about anyways? One asked.

“Don’t know, but I hear this mission is straight from the top.”

“You mean the emperor himself?!”
Said one awestruck.

The dragons were now more excited now, thinking they’re being briefed by the emperor himself..

 

[Thanny]

The archivist heaved a sigh once the emperor had left, exhausted from the attempt of being as perfect as she could be. How others in the company of the emperor could do this, she had no idea. It was quite the strain on her, but at least he was contented with what he received. She looked over to the mathematics on the table wanly, not at all obscured and defenceless.

"Duty calls," she spoke to herself, reluctant but willing herself to action. She had people to talk with so that Emperor Gaul would be pleased. She did not desire his wrath.

-- -- --

Like their brethren, a few of the guards and soldiers had their faces light up. It was a shock to be able to be addressed by the top brass of the military, His Imperial Highness himself, and they talked together in earnest.

"Could you believe it? This is quite the break from the monotony," said a learned one, placing a ribbon bookmark in the smallest of books, jet-black in hue and well worn. His companions did not seem to hold back from cajoling him, propping themselves on whatever they could get their hands on to laugh unhindered by lack of balance.

"Pincer, you're one to talk regarding monotony. When are you going to lose the book? You read it all the time," one said, a green-scaled dragon tall and burly.

Pincer smirked and shook his head, retorting, "Some words are better loved than lost. Where would the world be without Mycen? Horticulus? Durst? Poetry keeps me sane. It might keep you sane too, Summers."

"Indeed, and Lieutenant Grit will stop harrying us for quoting things of flowers and stones," laughed the other of the three dragons, Boreal. His blue scales and tight jaw gave his smile an air of mystery. "But enough of that. The emperor himself. Some say he's more iron than flesh. To meet him would be an honour, and if we get on his good side--"

"Nothing will come of it," finished Pincer, offering a grin of his own. "Even if we are in his army, it takes more than a battle to win that kind of prestige. Now, heads up. I have a gut feeling someone's coming."

 

[Dragonborn1]

The archivist heaved a sigh once the emperor had left, exhausted from the attempt of being as perfect as she could be. How others in the company of the emperor could do this, she had no idea. It was quite the strain on her, but at least he was contented with what he received. She looked over to the mathematics on the table wanly, not at all obscured and defenceless.

"Duty calls," she spoke to herself, reluctant but willing herself to action. She had people to talk with so that Emperor Gaul would be pleased. She did not desire his wrath.

-- -- --

Like their brethren, a few of the guards and soldiers had their faces light up. It was a shock to be able to be addressed by the top brass of the military, His Imperial Highness himself, and they talked together in earnest.

"Could you believe it? This is quite the break from the monotony," said a learned one, placing a ribbon bookmark in the smallest of books, jet-black in hue and well worn. His companions did not seem to hold back from cajoling him, propping themselves on whatever they could get their hands on to laugh unhindered by lack of balance.

"Pincer, you're one to talk regarding monotony. When are you going to lose the book? You read it all the time," one said, a green-scaled dragon tall and burly.

Pincer smirked and shook his head, retorting, "Some words are better loved than lost. Where would the world be without Mycen? Horticulus? Durst? Poetry keeps me sane. It might keep you sane too, Summers."

"Indeed, and Lieutenant Grit will stop harrying us for quoting things of flowers and stones," laughed the other of the three dragons, Boreal. His blue scales and tight jaw gave his smile an air of mystery. "But enough of that. The emperor himself. Some say he's more iron than flesh. To meet him would be an honour, and if we get on his good side--"

"Nothing will come of it," finished Pincer, offering a grin of his own. "Even if we are in his army, it takes more than a battle to win that kind of prestige. Now, heads up. I have a gut feeling someone's coming."

As Pincer was addressing his other two companions, a third dragon plucked the book from his claw. “Whatcha readying anyway?”
A blueish purple dragon intruded into Pincer’s space. Occupying the seat next to him.
“Huh he wasn’t kidding! The whole thing is poetry! One of them mentions about flying. You thinking of joining the air force Pincer?”
He asked with a sly grin.

He even began reading out loud one of Pincer’s poems. It spoke about flying high and fast. Feeling the wind on their scales, joining the many high fliers in the sky.

He then slammed the book shut after reading it.
“Wow Pincer didn’t know you loved poetry this much.”
The dragon would play ‘keep away’ with Pincer if he tried to retrieve it.
The bluish purple dragon would keep Pincer at bay with his claw while the other held the small book.

 

[Thanny]

Pincer gave a sour expression as the bluish-purple dragon started reading aloud the poetry, pondering over how many of the "boors" will laugh and jeer over his tastes. Some did, of course. He was a low-ranking soldier who did not show much potential in terms of combat, but some kept silent for his talent in offensive magicks.

He did attempt to grab at the black book, and after a few attempts of reaching desperately for it felt a fury over his lack of adequate reach. The air surrounding him and the others seemed to pop around him as the air seemed robbed of water and filled with a dry electric charge. Pincer's hand seemed to glow with a sickly green tattoo as he jabbed a pointer finger at the taunter.

"Give it back. Now," he seethed, glaring daggers at the bluish-purple dragon.

"Don't be hasty, Pincer," cautioned Boreal, his throat and mouth drying due to stolen water. "You don't want to be dishonorably discharged."

Pincer did not say a word, instead keeping the pressure of magic in the air in the hopes of retrieving his book.

 

[Dragonborn1]

Pincer gave a sour expression as the bluish-purple dragon started reading aloud the poetry, pondering over how many of the "boors" will laugh and jeer over his tastes. Some did, of course. He was a low-ranking soldier who did not show much potential in terms of combat, but some kept silent for his talent in offensive magicks.

He did attempt to grab at the black book, and after a few attempts of reaching desperately for it felt a fury over his lack of adequate reach. The air surrounding him and the others seemed to pop around him as the air seemed robbed of water and filled with a dry electric charge. Pincer's hand seemed to glow with a sickly green tattoo as he jabbed a pointer finger at the taunter.

"Give it back. Now," he seethed, glaring daggers at the bluish-purple dragon.

"Don't be hasty, Pincer," cautioned Boreal, his throat and mouth drying due to stolen water. "You don't want to be dishonorably discharged."

Pincer did not say a word, instead keeping the pressure of magic in the air in the hopes of retrieving his book.

The dragon didn’t expect Pincer to fight back with magic. The dragon, known as Windy, smiled a toothy grin. He held the book within his claw walking away, putting some distance between him and the others.
He laughed, even with the lack of water he took a deep breath.

Looking like he was about to give it back, but instead he blew outward a powerful wind. The chairs, and dragons were blown almost being launched backwards. Papers flew in the air getting caught on objects.


If Pincer had his wings open then he too would be pushed backwards.
Some papers from his book were ripped out from Windy’s strength. Flying and fluttering in the produced wind.

 

[Thanny]

Pincer started to snarl at the turned back of the dragon Windy. Most of the moisture was sapped from the open air, and Pincer had half a mind to give the dragon a strong shock from his magically generated static electricity. Windy, however -- true to his name -- brought out a strong wind that caught Pincer completely unaware. His unfurled wings caused enough drag for him to slide back along the floor and almost lose his balance, but he remained upright, and the popping sensation only grew as his irritation toward the other dragon rose in strength.

"You owe me a new book," he continued, "and if the emperor were not coming I'd have you show some respect towards poetry by digesting its words with my foot digging into your back."

Pincer's magic let up in his hand and in the air, the moisture returning in the form of a mist that descended from the ceiling. His friends seemed relieved. Pincer himself felt disappointed as he sat down on one of the shoved chairs near him. He had lost his book and craved some sort of vengeance, but gave it up. He did not want to look bad in front of the emperor.

 

[Dragonborn1]

Pincer started to snarl at the turned back of the dragon Windy. Most of the moisture was sapped from the open air, and Pincer had half a mind to give the dragon a strong shock from his magically generated static electricity. Windy, however -- true to his name -- brought out a strong wind that caught Pincer completely unaware. His unfurled wings caused enough drag for him to slide back along the floor and almost lose his balance, but he remained upright, and the popping sensation only grew as his irritation toward the other dragon rose in strength.

"You owe me a new book," he continued, "and if the emperor were not coming I'd have you show some respect towards poetry by digesting its words with my foot digging into your back."

Pincer's magic let up in his hand and in the air, the moisture returning in the form of a mist that descended from the ceiling. His friends seemed relieved. Pincer himself felt disappointed as he sat down on one of the shoved chairs near him. He had lost his book and craved some sort of vengeance, but gave it up. He did not want to look bad in front of the emperor.

“Atten-tion!”

The general of the unit marched forward. He has green scales and his horns are curved upwards. Everyone who heard the order did what they were told. “At ease everyone. Today, as you might of heard, we have a special guest giving you your brief for today.”

Gaul stepped out his large wing span unfurled showing off his size.
He strides from side to side pacing as he glanced at the soldiers.
“You all must be a part of 5th regiment. Heard you have quite the nickname for your regiment.”

He gave a small amused grin. Wanting to hear it again, while also trying to act too amused.

 

[Thanny]

((All right, let's see . . . regiment name, regiment name.))

There were a fair sum of those in the room that nodded with high levels of enthusiasm, and Pincer was not among them. One with blue scales, a young exuberant face, a scrappy build, and more energy than he had brains was more than pleased to state it aloud.

"You know of our nickname, the Titan Five? That's like a dream come true!" spoke the jubilant youth, as happy as ever from the news.

Again there was a mixed reception. Some liked the youth and some just bore his commentary and antics. The trio of Summers, Boreal, and Pincer liked him, but wondered and worried how the emperor would reply.

 

[Dragonborn1]

((All right, let's see . . . regiment name, regiment name.))

There were a fair sum of those in the room that nodded with high levels of enthusiasm, and Pincer was not among them. One with blue scales, a young exuberant face, a scrappy build, and more energy than he had brains was more than pleased to state it aloud.

"You know of our nickname, the Titan Five? That's like a dream come true!" spoke the jubilant youth, as happy as ever from the news.

Again there was a mixed reception. Some liked the youth and some just bore his commentary and antics. The trio of Summers, Boreal, and Pincer liked him, but wondered and worried how the emperor would reply.

(Sorry, I’m not the best with names)

“Yes, you have quite the reputation. That’s why I picked you for this assignment.”

Gaul had the map coiled in his claw, he then tacked it to a board for his soldiers to see. The map displayed the ravine to the soldiers with several places the emperor pointed to.
“Here is your staging area for this attack. You all will not be wearing your regular armor and weapons, why? You’ll be staged as bandit’s and if the weather is correct it’ll be during a heavy rainstorm. Your target is a traitor that managed to find out some…information about our past. She even killed a protector of this information and I worry she’s going to tell others.
The plan is simple, an invitation will be sent out to the traitors. You lay in ambush along the ravine and wait for the cart to pull through. On your generals signal you proceed with the attack.
Any thoughts or questions?”

 

[Thanny]

((All good; I had to do some research to even find out that regiments had nicknames, so you were perfectly fine there.))

The soldiers crowded around the map, some remembering the area well enough and mumbling softly with other crew members about the spot. All ears, however, were rapt in attention to the emperor, and were surprised by this clandestine operation over one traitor. It was understood, however, that it had to be done, even though there was some confusion over this past.

"Two questions. Well, three," voiced an officer, rubbing a red-scaled hand over the spikes on his otherwise smooth, almost domed head. "What days should we expect this cart? Should we give the locals a hard time as well to make 'legitimate' our role as highwaymen? And how will we know the traitor? I am loath to have innocent civvies harmed by military measures."

 

[Dragonborn1]

((All good; I had to do some research to even find out that regiments had nicknames, so you were perfectly fine there.))

The soldiers crowded around the map, some remembering the area well enough and mumbling softly with other crew members about the spot. All ears, however, were rapt in attention to the emperor, and were surprised by this clandestine operation over one traitor. It was understood, however, that it had to be done, even though there was some confusion over this past.

"Two questions. Well, three," voiced an officer, rubbing a red-scaled hand over the spikes on his otherwise smooth, almost domed head. "What days should we expect this cart? Should we give the locals a hard time as well to make 'legitimate' our role as highwaymen? And how will we know the traitor? I am loath to have innocent civvies harmed by military measures."

The emperor scratched his chin with his robotic claw. Glancing to the many faces staring at him.
“Expect the cart later this evening, that’s when the weather is supposed to change. As for regular civilians,yes, all civilians are to be stopped. Really sell the act of being bandits to anyone coming through.”

Gaul moved away from the map seemingly searching for something. He pulled out a sheet of paper giving it a slide towards the group.

The group in question was Glacier, Origin, and the groups of rebels and bandits. The sheet had all the information about the group,color of their scales, background, clothing, etc.

“Everything you need to know about this group. The main two targets are dragons one being a former guard. While the other one being a nature dragon. Gaul knew dragons didn’t like nature dragons too much. For their peacefulness and unwillingness to fight. The only thing other dragons think their good at is gardening.

 

[Thanny]

"This evening!" exclaimed the youth from before with a quiet but excited whisper. This was probably his first outing that was not a training exercise.

The officer blinked in surprise, as this was quick and unexpected from him, but he nodded in assent and saluted before looking down at the paper. It was certainly quite a varied group, but a nature dragon and a mountain dragon as highlights made him think that they were just nay-sayers and explorers until they recently dug themselves into trouble. He did not attempt to dig too much further, however, and when some others tried to start up a conversation on that very nature he barked at them and silenced them. The less they knew, the better.

"We will be there, by our pride as the Titan Five. Men, arm yourselves with mixed equipment and mottled garb. We are going hunting. By your leave, General, of course."

Heads bobbed around him as the others agreed, but Pincer and Boreal would remain skeptical, even if their heads remained fixed and their eyes unfazed.

If the general gives the signal, the plan will move into play, and whatever the general dictates for numbers would be employed.

((Whenever you would like, we can timeskip. =) ))

 

[Dragonborn1]

"This evening!" exclaimed the youth from before with a quiet but excited whisper. This was probably his first outing that was not a training exercise.

The officer blinked in surprise, as this was quick and unexpected from him, but he nodded in assent and saluted before looking down at the paper. It was certainly quite a varied group, but a nature dragon and a mountain dragon as highlights made him think that they were just nay-sayers and explorers until they recently dug themselves into trouble. He did not attempt to dig too much further, however, and when some others tried to start up a conversation on that very nature he barked at them and silenced them. The less they knew, the better.

"We will be there, by our pride as the Titan Five. Men, arm yourselves with mixed equipment and mottled garb. We are going hunting. By your leave, General, of course."

Heads bobbed around him as the others agreed, but Pincer and Boreal would remain skeptical, even if their heads remained fixed and their eyes unfazed.

If the general gives the signal, the plan will move into play, and whatever the general dictates for numbers would be employed.

((Whenever you would like, we can timeskip. =) ))

The general nodded in agreement. Giving a smile to the emperor then turning to his soldiers.
“You heard the man get your gear ready!”

Gaul watched the men prepare he did however, notice Pincer’s and Boreal’s look on their face. Hopefully they didn’t have anything else planned.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~


Glacier finished piling the dirt over the grave of SnapJaw. She stared for a long time at the dirt pile. The brown colored earth make a large mound to cover the entire body, she even made sure no one will disturb it.
The final touch being placing his helmet on a cross made of branches.
She sat back, judging her work as she bowed her head to mourn. Not infront of everyone she shed a few tears, but quickily wiped them away.

 

[Thanny]

Origin was for the most part silent throughout the burial process. Beneath the mounds of dirt on this hill were people that died for what they believed in, no matter how warped some beliefs may have been.

She paused when scanning each of the grave sites, but the one denoted for Merrimac was the one she paused on the longest. It was nothing special.
To save on time and effort, she formed a small mound of rocks from each cardinal direction -- north, east, south, and west -- and blew some dirt onto the mound, as was the custom taught by her parents. He may not have changed his ways, but he was like a brother to Sanctus and her. To her he deserved a proper treatment even if his body sadly could not be recovered, like most or all that died in that room against the surge of automatons.

Everyone else paid their respects differently. Sanctus remained near Merry's site, grateful to have something physical to come back to. Rheyn gave each site a profound bow, even Snapjaw's, and even partook in giving droplets of his own blood by striking a knife over his finger. Chiron and Astrid helped in the digging, but fled the gravesites to talk between themselves.

Originmaw, when she found a moment, approached Glacier and, if the other accepted, would silently embrace her tightly with tears of her own in her eyes. She was quivering. Death was never her strongest acceptance.

 

[Dragonborn1]

Origin was for the most part silent throughout the burial process. Beneath the mounds of dirt on this hill were people that died for what they believed in, no matter how warped some beliefs may have been.

She paused when scanning each of the grave sites, but the one denoted for Merrimac was the one she paused on the longest. It was nothing special.
To save on time and effort, she formed a small mound of rocks from each cardinal direction -- north, east, south, and west -- and blew some dirt onto the mound, as was the custom taught by her parents. He may not have changed his ways, but he was like a brother to Sanctus and her. To her he deserved a proper treatment even if his body sadly could not be recovered, like most or all that died in that room against the surge of automatons.

Everyone else paid their respects differently. Sanctus remained near Merry's site, grateful to have something physical to come back to. Rheyn gave each site a profound bow, even Snapjaw's, and even partook in giving droplets of his own blood by striking a knife over his finger. Chiron and Astrid helped in the digging, but fled the gravesites to talk between themselves.

Originmaw, when she found a moment, approached Glacier and, if the other accepted, would silently embrace her tightly with tears of her own in her eyes. She was quivering. Death was never her strongest acceptance.

Glacier could be seen staring at Snapjaw’s helmet. It was dented from when she punched him. The crest of feathers on top were white while stained from his blood. Some were even missing which upsetted her, she knew he was proud of her, well, that’s what she thought. It hurt having to kill him.

She suddenly felt an embrace from behind. She was ready to react with an attack. Though, feeling the softness upon her scales feeling similar to grass. She knew who it was.
“I shouldn’t have brought you along for this…I’m sorry for everything.”
She said, still staring at the feather crested helmet. The feathers waving in a soft breeze.

“What should we do now? I feel, lost if word gets out about Snapjaw they’ll kill me for sure.”

Her own helmet rested beside Glacier. The silver was still shiny with patches of blood.
“I have to ask; Am I worthy to even wear this?”
She was referring to her helmet and armor.

 

[Thanny]

The nature dragon softly relinquished her hold on Glacier and slipped to her side, her expression sour and sad. She felt as if she understood, and yet at the same time . . .

"Don't be sorry for bringing me along, not at all. While we both have our hardships, we can support each other through them."

Origin followed Glacier's gaze and stared at the bloodied helmet as well, then seated herself in cross-legged fashion, which seemed a little awkward with an earthen shell but was more natural to her than some other manners. The grass and plant life, most of it battered from all of the crazy events that had happened to her recently, swayed gently in the wind, still alive after all of that and growing.

After Glacier asked if she was worthy, she cast a confused glance toward her friend, then understood.

"You were more worthy to wear a guard's uniform than the one you fought. You defended many from dying to his experienced hand. Whether they think it or not, you're a hero to these people, and proved yourself to your fellow guards. I doubt anyone would say anything bad regarding Snapjaw's unfortunate death. I know I wouldn't."

She offered a flicker of a smile toward Glacier, patting her on the wrist reassuringly.

"So, what now? For you, I mean."

 

[Dragonborn1]

The nature dragon softly relinquished her hold on Glacier and slipped to her side, her expression sour and sad. She felt as if she understood, and yet at the same time . . .

"Don't be sorry for bringing me along, not at all. While we both have our hardships, we can support each other through them."

Origin followed Glacier's gaze and stared at the bloodied helmet as well, then seated herself in cross-legged fashion, which seemed a little awkward with an earthen shell but was more natural to her than some other manners. The grass and plant life, most of it battered from all of the crazy events that had happened to her recently, swayed gently in the wind, still alive after all of that and growing.

After Glacier asked if she was worthy, she cast a confused glance toward her friend, then understood.

"You were more worthy to wear a guard's uniform than the one you fought. You defended many from dying to his experienced hand. Whether they think it or not, you're a hero to these people, and proved yourself to your fellow guards. I doubt anyone would say anything bad regarding Snapjaw's unfortunate death. I know I wouldn't."

She offered a flicker of a smile toward Glacier, patting her on the wrist reassuringly.

"So, what now? For you, I mean."

Glacier passed a small smile in Origin’s direction. Beside her she picked up her own helmet and placed it upon her head.
“To tell the truth I have no clue. Go back to the barracks and wait for reassignment. With Snapjaw dead, our general, we might be moved to a new place.”

It hurt to say she didn’t want to leave either. She could almost guess how Origin would feel if she left.
Glacier shifted, though regretted it feeling her hip. The place where she was stabbed was slowly healing. Her scales were badly damaged.

“But what about you? You have a business, but from what I saw it didn’t seem very bustling.” She admitted.
Above darker clouds began to roll in and the sounds of rumbling emitted from the sky. A single raindrop landed on Origin’s muzzle. Soon the sky seemingly opened up as the dragons got soaked.
To protect Origin she created a shield overhead using her unfurled wing.

 

[Thanny]

Origin felt a wave of sorrow, unsure of what to say regarding Glacier's possibly being relocated. In such a case, she can always recompose a home and move elsewhere to be close by, but that would take multiple trips to get her plant shop set up elsewhere. Perhaps she should try to go off and see the world by herself? But that would mean leaving Glacier behind when they were planning to journey together. That would not work out.

"My business wasn't booming, that is true. It was select people that wanted select plants. If--"

The raindrop that struck her muzzle caught Origin by surprise, even though the plants seemed ready and willing. A soft exhale of relief seemed to escape them that only she could hear because of their connection when the downpour started. She was caught again in surprise when Glacier offered a wing overhead to shelter her from the rain, and looked up toward her friend with a smile as she offered the same gesture, unfolding one of her otherwise unused wings to protect her from the elements as a makeshift umbrella.

The others in the area seemed to gather underneath one of the trees. The rebels huddled together and sometimes playfully shoved each other out from the shelter of the branches, causing a number of laughs. The fellow guards found another tree, Astrid lying with her back against the tree looking up at the storm while Chiron looked stony-faced. Chiron's eyes were seemingly on the two still out in the rain, Glacier and Origin. Origin did not seem to notice through the heavy rain.

"If . . . if you do decide to leave," Origin spoke, her voice elevated against the roar of the rain falling around them, "I'll move too. For some reason I feel like my place in the world is uprooted. The storm, the attack, whatever all of this is -- they all intimate change is upon us. For that reason, I'll go where you go."