Fantasy The War

[KhalZhavvorsa]

Bellatrix ran along with the man, keeping speed with no problem as her long elegant purple hair flowed out behind her. The moment she had heard he was from Svenja's kingdom, she relaxed just a little more around the stranger, but what shocked her the most was the fact that the man had just asked her what her age was. A loud laugh escaped the Queen as she ran. "My my! You have only just met me and are asking my age?" She laughed a little more, "Sir, I do not even know your name yet!" She exclaimed. Now..any normal ruler would of thought his question to be disrespectful..but Bellatrix? No. It was most amusing for her, and the fact that he had the gall to ask her right away made it all more better! Such a wondrous day this was turning out to be, minus the threat of war at her doorstep.


@Clockwork Syringe

 

[UnknownOrigin]

Alistair Cadwell III of Graenum
Alistair listened to the outburst calmly, not getting upset. "The so called 'Slavers' are monsters, I agree. But Queen Evelyn bears no fault. I know for a fact that she works tirelessly to end the trade of slaves in her kingdom, that she fights constantly to make everyone equal in her country." He explained before addressing the second part of the outburst.

"I do want to help you. I don't want to use you as a shield. I will be at the forefront of every battle that my men fight in, and I will fight with them! I would never ask my men to fight a battle that I wouldn't fight myself!" He said, a bit of anger coloring his tone for the first time. He was no coward, far from it. He had nearly died in battle before, and it still didn't stop him.

"What I gain from this alliance is simple. A chance to avoid as many casualties as possible, for both of us. I can't stand by and let my men die because of a prejudice. It makes sense for the Lich Queen to search out allies, to strengthen herself. I am merely trying to do the same. When my men and I fight against her armies, I have no intention of letting them win. So, yes. I do wish to ally myself with you, as equals. The same way I wish to ally myself with Queen Evelyn. She is a fair and just Queen who would die for her people like any here." He said, forcing himself to relax. Jon nodded approvingly, obviously enjoying watching his King get passionate about this, proving that he wanted it.​

 

[Clockwork Syringe]

Surprisingly, also not surprisingly, Queen Bellatrix kept up with him. However, she responded in a way that he was not expected. "My my! You have only just met me and are asking my age? Sir, I do not even know your name yet!" Perhaps she wasn't as evil as everyone made her out to be so he responded. In that case, Alexander decided that he would tell her his name as well as his moniker. "My name is Alexander, and my colleagues call me the "Fireheart" probably due to my aura."


@xEmoBunnehx

 

[ThatOneWeirdo]

Bryn Maeve

Bryn looked impatiently at her lord. "Sir, this is dangerous. You can send other men to do this, the Lich Queen most likely already knows of your presence here. You are in danger." She said hurriedly. A woman walking nearby cast them both a terrified look, and started walking toward the castle. Without hesitating, Bryn lunged and tore her throat out with her teeth, leaving her body on the ground to rot. She spat out the flesh.

"Disgusting." She muttered. Female flesh was not in her appetite, the flesh of a male was just so much sweeter. And so much more satisfying.​

 

[Cosmo]

~♛~

​

Ostleim High Council

​

"She is a monarch. A dictator, just like you, she could end it at any time, if she truly wished," Lord Markell said back. The laughable notion that a monarch with absolute power 'wanted' to end something but simply had not yet was laughable. Merely meant they were purposely dragging their feet. The why didn't matter. The fact their slaver Queen sat on her hands as her people suffered under the weight of her own laws was proof enough.


"And where did you hear this from that you know for 'certain'?" Lord Markell sneered, "Her people? The same ones that cannot speak out against her for fear of imprisonment or even death? The Slaver Queen, herself? Oh, I am sure the fact she is considering ending slavery is a welcoming salve on the backs of her whipped and chained people. 'Do not fret, poor slave, someday, I may just decide to free you, when it suits me!'" He said mockingly.


"Enough, Lord Markell," The elder elf said once again, and once again, the fuming Lord Markell sat down in his seat.


The dwarf was still fixing his pipe, giving no sign that he heard, nor cared, for Markell's outpost, "A bold claim, manling, but nothing more," he said starting to pack it with dark leaves. A 'noble' idea that he would treat them as 'equals' and fight alongside them, but the fact he was willing to trust the Slaver Queen so thoroughly put a lot of doubt on his words.


"My Lord," The elf said, rising to her feet, "You have made your case known, if you would please wait outside, we will... go over what you have said among ourselves and reach a verdict."



​

@UnknownOrigin

​

 

[KhalZhavvorsa]

Bellatrix gave another chuckle before nodding. "As I noticed. Such a nice warmth you give off. Fireheart suits you well." She mused happily before adding, "Nice to meet you Alexander. I wish we had met on better terms..but unfortunately we did not." She said with a twinge of sadness; however, she still kept up with him. "As for my age young boy, I am..." She creased her brows. How old was she? It had been a long time since she had to think about that one. She'd been a live so long..and lost track of literally everything..including her birthday. But surely Arkos would know. Right? Bellatrix looked around for him, as if he was following them like he normally would of..Oh shit. She made him stand still in the fucking Meeting room..Oh great.. Well..serves him right? Oh by the gods he'd laugh at her right now.. If corpses could blush, she'd be red right now. "Arkos..darling..how old am I?" She asked him before adding a command, "Oh..and I need you to come to me..now. With your manticore. We need to hurry darling~" She played it off well like she didn't just out right forget him, actually she made it seem like a playful command but it was also a very serious one. His manticore was fast..faster than running on foot would be. There was no telling what the Sea King was doing right now..and she needed to get there..FAST. "I hope you don't mind flying..because Arkos will be along soon with his wonderful beast." She told him, trying to distract from the thought of her age.


@Cosmo @Clockwork Syringe

 

[UnknownOrigin]

Alistair Cadwell III of Graenum
Alistair nodded stiffly, walking out with Jon at his heels. The second they were out of earshot, Alistair let anger overtake him. "What prejudiced bigots. How many of them have spoken to Evelyn? How many of them know what it's like to be a monarch? Do they really think that if we pass a law forbidding slavery that anyone will listen to us?" He scoffed, disgusted. Slavery wasn't an issue in his kingdom, simply because of the fact that most of the people there were strong enough to overcome it. In Abstrain, it was different.

"I've been to Abstrain. I've seen Queen Evelyn go to places that contain slavery and risk her life trying to end it. Nobody listens to us unless they have something to gain by it!" Alistair spat. Jon nodded, patting his friend on the back.

"They've never been to Graenum either, I'm sure. If they did, they would've seen how you treat your people, and there would be no doubt that you are no dictator. You treat your people with kindness and respect, Alistair. Many of them do not even refer to you be your title, simply as Alistair. You are a good man, and Queen Evelyn is a good woman, and a fair queen. If they cannot understand that, then perhaps this alliance is worthless anyways. Do you really want to be bound to people that despise you because of your title?" Jon said fairly. Alistair shook his head, frustrated.

"That has nothing to do with it. With this alliance, it could change these people's lives. Mine and theirs. How could they risk their people's lives and make this decision without even offering their citizens a choice and still call themselves fair rulers?" Alistair demanded. He himself would've at least told his people of his plans, and listened to their arguments for an against it. He often held debates in his kingdom, and listened with an unbiased ear. It had been his citizens' idea to ally themselves with Ostleim, despite his reluctance.​

 

[KaalysBR]

Raeghal seemed surprised at the sudden admittance from his Queen. If he didn't know better,he would have described her feelings as jealousy. But to have such feelings coming from a queen and directed at a servant seemed so...unlikely that he quickly pushed those thoughts away. His glance fell upon the now paralyzed wight standing in the room by their side. In the midst of his thoughts about threats coming from monsters,Raeghal had almost forgotten about him.


If the man hadn't risen his weapon in the room where Queen Svenja was,Raeghal would probably feel sorry for him.


Shaking those ideas away,he turned back to Svenja.


"You must have thought that she would harm me somehow,my queen. I can understand that feeling,you saw how I acted when the Dark Champion touched his weapon. I appreciate the fact that you have those feelings turned to me. They make you a mortal,after all. I don't expect you to be completely emotionless and unsympathetic."





He let out a slow breath through his nose,mentally cringing at the prospect of the afterwards of this truce. He would have to deal with the...high born. Raeghal would die for them,of course. It was his job. But he would rather do that while they remained quiet.


"Do you have any plans for the celebrations,my queen? Now that we have this truce,getting by supplies should be easier." @Ami the breadling

 

[Clockwork Syringe]

Bellatrix gave another chuckle before nodding. "As I noticed. Such a nice warmth you give off. Fireheart suits you well." She mused happily before adding, "Nice to meet you Alexander. I wish we had met on better terms..but unfortunately we did not." She said with a twinge of sadness; however, she still kept up with him. "As for my age young boy, I am..." She creased her brows. How old was she? It had been a long time since she had to think about that one. She'd been a live so long..and lost track of literally everything..including her birthday. But surely Arkos would know. Right? Bellatrix looked around for him, as if he was following them like he normally would of..Oh shit. She made him stand still in the fucking Meeting room..Oh great.. Well..serves him right? Oh by the gods he'd laugh at her right now.. If corpses could blush, she'd be red right now. "Arkos..darling..how old am I?" She asked him before adding a command, "Oh..and I need you to come to me..now. With your manticore. We need to hurry darling~" She played it off well like she didn't just out right forget him, actually she made it seem like a playful command but it was also a very serious one. His manticore was fast..faster than running on foot would be. There was no telling what the Sea King was doing right now..and she needed to get there..FAST. "I hope you don't mind flying..because Arkos will be along soon with his wonderful beast." She told him, trying to distract from the thought of her age.
@Cosmo @Clockwork Syringe

"I hope you don't mind flying..because Arkos will be along soon with his wonderful beast," Bellatrix commented. "Flying, your majesty? I would not mind the thought at all, considering myself." He would love to grow a pair of wings and fly to the harbor, but he figured that it could wait, until this beast arrived. "This would not be my first time flying as I have done it many times. It also makes me feel a bit free to be honest."


@xEmoBunnehx

 

[The Fluffiest Floof]

Tina got bored and very disgusted at being around her father and his champion. She ran after a bird, leading her down the streets further and further to the castle of the Queen, until she bumped into someone. "Sorry!", she said and looked down. "Where is Bunbun!", she panically said. "Papa won't be happy if he found me crying when we go back to the waters! I got to find him!"


@xEmoBunnehx @Cunning Commander

 

[Cryo]

Not long after Nekri had left the tavern, a hypogriph landed on the street and someone riding it. The rider scanned the area and was able to distinguish Nekri from the crowd due to her felyne features, he dismounted and gave her a letter.


"I've been hearing of your reputation as a bodyguard for a while now and I fear that trouble will be coming sooner or later for me. Take the hypogriph and come to the Dark Kingdom where I'll need your protection."she read the letter to herself.





"The dark kingdom? That's quite the distance I have to travel."she pondered."Well at least he or she was kind enough to give me a means of travel."


After thinking about it, she came to a conclusion and took the job. Nekri mounted onto the hypogriph and the creature is fast! In a matter of seconds it took the cait sith to the skies.


(OOC: Nekri should be arriving at the Dark Kingdom by around the next page I guess?)

 

[Cosmo]

~?~

​

"One thousand, three hundred and forty-five," Arkos answered instantly, not sure why that question, of all questions, came up. He was one of the few that remembered her day of birth, and did know her age off-hand. Although he did not know his own offhand, he would have to sit and compare their ages to find his own.


Her follow up command had his body moving to obey, while he had hoped it would last until she had faced some kind of danger before needing him, it seemed she had remembered early. He wasn't sure if he was happy about that or not. Her playful tone did not deceive him in the least, he had known her and been bound to her for far too long to be so easily tricked.


Arkos did not bother to tell the Light Queen or her Champion where he was going, they were... distracted with one another, and it wasn't their business. He marched out the meeting room and into the dark hallways that lead down to the dungeon, a part of which he had converted into his beast pens.


When he descended into the dark beast pens, idly pondering on how lucky he was that he no longer had a sense of smell, Dro'Khan rose to his feet, stretching out his back and letting out a loud yawn as he came alive at the sight of his rider and caretaker. Pulling open the heavy iron gate, Dro'Khan lowered his body and laid out his massive paw allowing Arkos to step onto his forearm and swing up on the mighty manticore with single, fluid motion. He did not put a saddle on him as he wasn't given the time. He was to come now, not at his own pace. But it wasn't necessary, the saddle was merely for Dro'Khan's comfort as Arkos' armor could dig into his back as he moved causing the beast unneeded pain. Thank to his crown, and their bond, Arkos could move with the great beast, anticipate his movements and actions without spoken word or direction. A display of teamwork few could ever understand With a pounce, Dro'Khan took off, flying out a wide chute that led to the outside world without having to walk Dro'khan through the halls of the castle.


Swooping up and out into the star filled night skies above Dernavir, it took him but a moment to feel her presence, to find out exactly where she was through their bond and with a nudge of his knee and a silent mental command, Dro'Khan tucked in his wings and descended like a missile before sweeping his wings out feet above the ground as they zipped through the streets coming up behind Bellatrix and the... well, whomever that was with her. "I am here," He sent the words to her, on the off chance she had not sensed his approach.



He did not land Dro'khan, or slow him, merely leaned out to the side and extended his hand, aiming towards her. With their long history of fighting side by side, it should be child's play for her to take his hand and swing herself behind him without either having to pause and so waste time.



​

@Ami the breadling @KaalysBR @Clockwork Syringe

~?~
​

Ostleim High Council

​

The council sat in silence for a few minutes, mulling over their options and what agreeing would mean, the pros and cons. There was a lot of... well, sides to consider to such a proposal. It would be taking a side, giving their word to people they did not know and Ostlanders kept their word for without trust in one another, they would die to either foes outside their borders or one of the many that lurked within. Such a decision would decide the fate of their nation and the direction it would take in the future. It was a defining moment.


"So," Lord Markell said, already knowing his verdict, "I think the answer to this is obvious."


"Is it?" The elven woman said, her fingers crossed and resting in her lap as her eyes remained closed, contemplating.


"Yes, we can't join slavers, such a regime is the very one we faced before, especially not on the word of a single man," Markell said, standing up to address the council, "What if they turn on us? What if, as we all fear, they use us and then seek to add our lands to their own once they have gotten what they want? Hm? Should we believe this Queen of Slaves is some kind of prophetical figure fighting oh so hard to end a regime that we, the men and women of Ostleim, have fought tooth and nail to end, and unlike them, we did it."





"Do you believe the manling?" The dwarf interrupted looking at the old elf, striking a match and litting his pipe, taking a puff as if the fate of their city wasn't being decided in the same room as him.





"I believe he speaks the truth, as far as he knows it," She said softly, "But if the truth as he knows it is the truth as it is..." she finished offering a weak shrug.





The dwarf let out a deep grunt, smoke leaving the corner of his lip as he accepted the observation.





"And what if the Lich Queen attacks us again? We could use the help, we barely survived last time. How many thousands died the last time she set her eyes on our island? I am willing to bet everything I have that she wants us still," the human woman said for the first time, running a hand through her dark hair.





"What if joining this 'alliance' prompts her to attack?" The elf said softly, "An obvious opposition and threat right on her doorstep? It would be incredibly provoking."





The dwarf let out a grunt of agreement to that. It was... tricky. An alliance, a true alliance, where they could trust them to come to their aid was incredibly useful, but what if that very thing caused the Dark Kingdom to attack? Threatened by their obvious aggression towards her realm and the desire to take them before the alliance was solidified?


"That is irrelevant," Lord Markell said with a slash of his hand, "We cannot support anything that, in some way, shows our approval for Astrain and their actions."


"No," the elf said, looking down at the table for a moment, "No, we cannot."


Allying with them, sharing interesting would imply they support, or at the very least, condone and are willing to look away from the actions they were doing. It didn't matter if their queen truly did want to 'end' it. She had yet to end it, and moreover, did they really want an ally that could not even bring order to her own realm? Could not enforce laws she created or desired to change? Such an ally could be just as dangerous as an enemy. The people of Ostleim would never put up with the idea of fighting side by side with slavers, they were a stubborn lot with a natural distrust of outsiders. The dwarf among them could already imagine the protest on it. 'Better to stand and die fighting then bend the knee to the abhorrent.'


"Take a vote then?" The woman said, her voice tired.





"Nay," Lord Markell called out before they had even asked to see if anymore was to be said on the subject.





"... Aye, a chance at allies is too good to pass up," The man said for the first time.


"Aye," The elven woman said, "We have seen what isolation has brought us, I can only hope this new path will be better, and I am willing to take that chance."


"Nay," The woman who called for the vote said, "We cannot risk drawing the Lich Queen's ire down upon us. Allies or not, it will be our lands that suffer."


The dwarf took a long puff, before letting out a trail of smoke from the corner of his thick lips, "Nay. I will not join with slavers, even if they are trying to stop. We are Ostlanders," The dwarf said stubbornly, "And should we die, we will die as true Ostlanders with our sense of right and wrong intact."


"Very well then," The elven woman said, and motioned for the secretary, "Bid the King of King of Graenum to return."

​

@UnknownOrigin

 

[UnknownOrigin]

Alistair Cadwell III of Graenum
Alistair had no doubt that his proposal would be rejected. The prejudice of these people was too strong, they didn't understand the delicate situation that Evelyn was in. Jon still looked a bit hopeful.

"Prepare my ship, please, Jonathon." Alistair ordered, not noticing the secretary at first.

"The destination?" Jon asked immediately.

Alistair sighed at the question. "Home. Tell them to be prepared immediately. I don't believe for an instant that we'll be asked to discuss the terms of this treaty, they won't accept it." Alistair chuckled humorlessly. All he could see was the deaths of his people that would mount in front of him. Jonathon sighed heavily.

"Unfortunately... I think you're right. I will go tell the ship. Good luck, Alistair. Please remember, you are still in foreign territory surrounded by armed guards. Keep your temper. And keep your hand off your sword." Jon advised. Alistair finally saw the secretary, and smiled.

"Of course. I have perfect control over my emotions, Jonathon." Alistair teased. Jon snorted derisively before walking away hurriedly. "I'm assuming they want to bring me back in to reject me in style?" Alistair asked the secretary with a slight smile playing on his lips. He followed her without hesitation, and smiled at the High Council.

"Before you deny me, let me make one thing very clear." He said before any could speak. "I do not say this to try to persuade you or change your decision, merely to fix a misunderstanding. It is no secret that Ostleim has fought hard to throw slavery from their kingdom, and I respect that as someone who's done the same. I can fully understand your misgivings about it. But until you've seen the state of things in Abstrain, I hope that you will control your hatred and not let it control you. Being a monarch may seem like one has absolute power in a kingdom, but it is quite the opposite. Even as the King, I only have any power if the citizens agree with me. Otherwise, they will revolt, and I don't want to cause suffering to my people. It is near impossible to keep a kingdom satisfied enough to avoid rebellion. Abstrain is still recovering from the outbreak fifty years ago, and Queen Evelyn is attempting to keep the peace as she outlaws slavery instead of causing more needless death." He said firmly, silver eyes sweeping over them. "That being said, I will not fight against your decision, nor try to change it, no matter your reasoning. I understand you want the best for your people." He finished, voice lowering slightly. He raised his chin, a small smile playing on his lips.​

 

[KhalZhavvorsa]

Belatrix was quite..surprised when the man grew wings..and with his aura? It made so much more sense now. He was a Half-Dragon, a species she almost thought had died out centuries ago. "Well well. What a surprise Sir Alexander. I would of thought your kind died out centuries ago..and yet here you are..in the flesh." She walked around him one time then came to a stop, just as she was about to say something else..a child bumped into her. "Oh?" Bellatrix cast her eyes down at the poor distraught child. It appeared that the child was looking for a thing called 'Bunbun'? Whatever that was she went on about her father and returning to the..waters. This must be the Sea King's daughter. What luck. "Well hello little one..are you lost?" She asked the child softly, bending down to get on her level as to not intimidate her. It was then that she could sense Arkos, and then that he spoke to her. Time was imperative..but when a bargaining chip like this one came along..well who could resist? Bellatrix would normally be disgusted at using a child for such things..but her hand was forced and luck appeared in her way. "Let me help you find your way back to your father..yes?" She offered a hand to the child.


@Ami the breadling @Cosmo @Clockwork Syringe

 

[Kumii]

Melisara sighed, continuing to twiddle her thimbs, "Alright, fine." She said.


@xEmoBunnehx

 

[The Fluffiest Floof]

Belatrix was quite..surprised when the man grew wings..and with his aura? It made so much more sense now. He was a Half-Dragon, a species she almost thought had died out centuries ago. "Well well. What a surprise Sir Alexander. I would of thought your kind died out centuries ago..and yet here you are..in the flesh." She walked around him one time then came to a stop, just as she was about to say something else..a child bumped into her. "Oh?" Bellatrix cast her eyes down at the poor distraught child. It appeared that the child was looking for a thing called 'Bunbun'? Whatever that was she went on about her father and returning to the..waters. This must be the Sea King's daughter. What luck. "Well hello little one..are you lost?" She asked the child softly, bending down to get on her level as to not intimidate her. It was then that she could sense Arkos, and then that he spoke to her. Time was imperative..but when a bargaining chip like this one came along..well who could resist? Bellatrix would normally be disgusted at using a child for such things..but her hand was forced and luck appeared in her way. "Let me help you find your way back to your father..yes?" She offered a hand to the child.
@Ami the breadling @Cosmo @Clockwork Syringe

Tina looked at the woman. "I won't be leavinf without Bunbun!", she insisted and kept looking for the bunny. "You can help me find him. Hes a little white Bunny and one of his eyes is a button, because it Fell off."

 

[Clockwork Syringe]

"Honestly, I'm surprised you know what I am, then again you're probably old enough to know others who were similar to me. However, I doubt you knew any that were light born Half-Dragons," Alexander remarked after he had finished growing his wings. "Funny thing is, my mother won't tell me who my father was, she probably has her reasons." As for her champion, he thought that we was lucky to be in their good graces as he was riding a manticore. They were known for producing the deadliest poison known to man. When the little girl had mentioned looking for a stuffed animal, he simply looked at Queen Bellatrix with an eyebrow raised.


@Ami the breadling

 

[KhalZhavvorsa]

Bellatrix let out a soft bit of laughter. "Your rabbit will be found in a matter of seconds my darling." She said with a small grin before looking up to Arkos. "Arkos, find this child's stuffed rabbit. Now." She demanded, a playful and and amused glint in her lilac eyes. It was so fun to mess with him, even he would hate her for it. "This child is the Sea King's daughter. I don't too much care for the rabbit, but we need her as a negotiation piece. Understood?" She told him through their bond, figuring he should know why he was looking for such a meaningless item. As for what the half-dragon had said, Bellatrix would only sigh. "You'd be surprised at what's out there. I have lived for well over one thousand years. The things I have seen, done, heard, witnessed, and so on are beyond your imagination." She explained with a nonchalant tone.


@Ami the breadling @Cosmo @Clockwork Syringe

 

[Cosmo]

~?~

As Arkos was swooping towards her, intending to pick her up without stopping as they had to 'hurry', her sudden change of heart and orders forced his body to 'slam on the brakes'... or, well, the closest thing to it. He dug in his heels hard into Dro'Khans ribs, the wings snapping out to slow its ride as it released a howl of pain as his armor dug deep into his back. If he had the capability, he would have winced at the unnecessary pain he was forced to inflict upon Dro'Khan, all because she decided to playfully change her command...

Thanks to her order, he wasn't able to console the pained beast by running his hand through Dro'Khan's mane, he was forced to move, nudging Dro'Khan over to the small child so he could gather her scent, but he did not have to control his tongue, "There is no reason we cannot take her by force and no reason I had to hurt Dro'Khan to appease a child or your enjoyment."

Sending the mental command to the beast, Dro'khan lowered its massive head to the ground and followed the trail, pouncing over a law wall to nuzzle a small stuffed creature. Dro'Khan leaned down just as Arkos angled his body low to scoop it off the ground and tossed it back to the group, his 'task' done, he was able to lean forward and run his gauntlet through Dro'Khan's mane, an apology for the action earlier, and he promised recompense later through a nice brushing.

​

@Ami the breadling @Clockwork Syringe

~?~

Ostleim High Council

​

The dwarf blew out a plume of smoke and shook his head, "If she is not willing to spill the blood of her people righting a wrong in her own land, then what makes us believe she would spill their blood to defend a land far from her borders?"


He drew a small needle from his pocket and poked a few holes into the smoldering leaves in his pipe, "When you leave here, manling, I want you to take a look around at this city that managed to scrap out an existence on Toran. Even as we speak thousands of filthy Drogar," he said spitting the name, "Descend upon a fort that protects our borders from their... experimentation. Just yesterday a caravan of eighty souls, including my kinsmen, were wiped out, in an instant, by a rouge Korva. Our Rangers bring reports of a pack of giants migrating towards us looking for food and this is just this week."


The dwarf tapped the pipe on the table repeatedly, dislodging the leaves from it, "And you sit there and talk about needless death, you know nothing. You fight. Or you die. Simple as that, manling. If she won't do everything in her power to fight to right this wrong that you claim she is struggling against so harshly, then I would never expect her to fight along side us when the Lich Queen's army knocks upon our gates once more. Be it lack of will or resolve.."


The elven woman spoke up, interrupting the dwarf's monologue, "What our... councilor is trying to say, my Lord, is we... cannot ally with someone who has slaves. If she is truly fighting it, as you say, then we wish her well and hope she succeeds, but until she manages to win the fight before her, we will not trust her with another one nor will we fight alongside a nation that owns slaves especially when such a move endangers our own people. When she manages to end slavery, truly end it, we will be willing to reopen this discussion, but until then, I am sorry, but Ostleim will not be joining this alliance you are forming."


Closing her eyes for a moment, she reopened them and fixed Alistair with her deep emerald eyes, "I am truly sorry that we cannot help you in this, the best we can offer is an increased economic ties through lowered tariff trade and a promise of non-aggression from Ostleim. As is customary of our people, there shall be a gift from us, even if the outcome was not what you desired, waiting on the dock for you. We thank you for taking the time to come and visit us in person, King Cadwell," she finished inclining her head to him.


@UnknownOrigin

~?~

Sigvald closed the tome closed and leaned back to consider what he had read. To plan out what he should create. They had no real history with this other nation, and their culture wasn't well understood even if their history lay open before him, and so, he wasn't sure what gift would constitute well or what would be an insult. Tapping his fingers against his dark onyx mask, his eyes widened as the idea came to him.


He pushed himself to his feet, and spread out his hands before him, willing the silver upon the table to respond to his will, to his calling. The silver bars bubbled and flowed, not truly molten as there was no 'heat' to them, instead it was as if the metal had turned to liquid as it flowed across the table's surface forming a large rectangle six paces wide across and three paces wide. His fingers danced in the air as he closed his eyes, willing the image to appear in his mind.


The metal slab danced to his will, small etchings and carvings skirting across the surface, work that would have taken months for an expert craftsmen was being done in moments. Along the thick borders, beautiful veins flowed and sprouted tiny silver roses, so finely 'carved' that if someone looked close, they could make out individual thorns and petals of the tiny roses. Upon the surface of the tablet, horses and men took shape, buildings and constructs, brought forth from the images and drawings in the tome and the tales of old. Each model was down with the care only someone truly in love with their art could do, each horse looked ready to jump from the tablet, each man looked as if one merely leaned close enough, they could hear them speaking.


Finally lowering his hands, Sigvald let his azure eyes roam the silver mosaic. The Patriarch came close to inspect the work, his eyes widening as while the work was not a great show of force, the sheer amount of finesse such a thing required, done in the time it was, was nothing short of impossible, "Not bad, Aritficer. I shall have it delivered to the river and sent down to the docks."


Sigvald offered a nod, but no words as the work had.. exhausted him. Already he could feel trails of blood slipping down from his nose, hidden by his mask, the coppery smell nearly bringing him to a gag. Sitting on Charon, Sigvald let the construct carry him out of the Patriarchs chambers and down the stairs, back to his own domain.
​

@UnknownOrigin

 

[UnknownOrigin]

Alistair Cadwell III of Graenum
Alistair smirked, having to forcibly stop himself from laughing. Right. As if Evelyn cared about who trusted her, especially after these people were leaving her people for dead for prejudice. Most of the kingdoms had supported slavery at one point. And, because Abstrain was a bit slow in stopping it due to complications in the kingdom, it was hated. How ridiculous. That rebellion had occurred when Evelyn's father tried to abolish slavery. Of course Evelyn was going about it more carefully. She was smart.

Alistair let out a low chuckle as he walked out, pausing that the doorway. "I appreciate your time, and the gift. I bid you all good luck in this war... May the gods be with you." He said solemnly. He had no idea the religious beliefs of Ostleim, but if they expected him to give them a foreign blessing, they were sadly mistaken. In times of sorrow, Graenum looked to the gods, and they always had. Particularly Shash, the goddess of hope and luck. "May Shash light your path." He murmured, bowing to them and walking toward the docks.

Jonathon was waiting for him at the docks, and brightened when he approached. "How did it go?" He asked. Alistair smiled.

"Just as I expected. More judgment to Evelyn for trying to protect her people. More judgment to me for defending her. And they said they were sending a gift." He explained. Jon nodded, not looking surprised.

"That's customary, especially for meetings such as this one. Did they make any offers?" Jon pressed.

"Just lowered tariffs. And a non-aggression agreement." He replied. He looked around at the workers with regret. Because of his failure in this diplomatic mission, much of this kingdom would be ravaged. Ostleim had barely survived the Lich Queen's attack the first time around. And Alistair had no doubt that Bellatrix wouldn't let them survive again.

"Well, that's a start. Hopefully, if Bellatrix shows signs of aggression, their ideals will change." Jon said hopelessly. Alistair shook his head.

"No, Jonathon. They've made their choice to stand separately from Graenum in this war. I don't care if they send me a letter tomorrow changing their mind. Until they apologize for their words against myself and Evelyn, I will consider the idea of a treaty void. None of my soldiers will attack them without provoking, but that's the most I will offer." He said firmly. "Tell the ship's captain I've changed my mind. We sail for Abstrain." He ordered. Jonathon nodded, hurrying away to discuss with the captain.​

 

[Kumii]

Xentrev sat back in his throne, twirling a coin in his fingers, looking to be deep in thought. "We... need allies... if we were to be attacked right now, we would be completely defenseless.." His looked returned as he looked over a council. "I hereby decree, active immediately, the search for potential. Send out detachments of scouts, search every possible island or land mass for a kingdom." He said before standing up and beginning to walk away, "As for me, Im going for a walk."


@Anyonewantingtointeract

 

[Graecus Scum]

Evelyn Hamilton

Evelyn couldn't help her smile at his concern. "Yes, Daeshnir. I'm fine." She assured him, looking him over. The arrow seemed to be the only wound. "I guess it's a bit more important that we find allies, the kingdom is growing restless. The rebels never attack so brazenly." She noted. "Normally, they go for the old, 'kill-her-in-her-sleep' technique." She said, some humor in her voice. She knew he wouldn't appreciate her making light of death attempts, she just didn't care.

"Ostleim would never ally with us. But Graenum would, and I'm sure we can find someone else with ease. Not Galardanad, I think. Someone closer to home." She said, trying to be professional once again. But she still couldn't stop her heart from pounding, couldn't rid her mind of the image of him, less than an inch away from her. She shook her head, annoyed.

You're a Queen and you're mooning over a man? How pathetic! Grow up, Evelyn!




She mentally chided herself, scrawling on some papers to avoid looking at him.​

 

[Kumii]

As Xentrev was walking, he contemplated the thought of having allies. The Kingdom he ran had little to offer, a small army and high demands. His Kingdom was falling into disarray, crime was an all time high.. What could allies offer me for a Kingdom that can offer so little in return... His thoughts were deep till he reached the coast of the island, peering over the ocean into a vast unexplored sea. He made his way back to his palace, My island is so small... My kingdom is so fragile... maybe allies could strengthen the defenses... But for what? These thoughts annoyed him, made him sick to even think about how frail his Kingdom has become. "Sir!" one of his advisors called out snapping him out of his thoughts, "What?! Can't you see Im busy?!" He yelled, "S-sorry, sir... but one of the detachments has returned." The Advisor said. "Call for a meeting, bring the detachment in, I want a direct report from them." He said, sternly. The advisor nodded and walked off, I hope this mystery kingdom will be my salvation... for now I'll get advice from my council members, but I definitely want to check this kingdom out for myself.. He thought.

 

[Play On Words]

Daeshnir Valnov
Daeshnir smiled at the sudden change of subject before thinking. "What of Balasieed? They may not have much to offer, but with their support, we can gain a decent trading partner." He noted, thinking of the island. "The King is said to be a reasonable man, I'm sure he understands that he needs us more than we need him. We'd get good terms for the treaty." He offered. He wasn't sure if she'd agree with his logic, but he hoped she would.


He continued speaking to make his point clearer, blushing a bit. "Their military isn't fantastic, and their crime is... Terrible. But with our help, perhaps we could help improve them. They'd be in our debt." He noted.
​

 

[Kumii]

In the middle of a meeting of the Council members, Xentrev slammed his fist down on the table, making the room go silent, "What choice do we have, Councilor?! Our crime is at an all time high. Trade is impossible, and our army is atrocious!" He yelled, "I dont know about you, but Im getting desperate..." he stopped himself, then his face lit up, "That's it..." He calmed down and sat down, "Desperation... that's our key and perhaps our greatest weapon.." He smirked, "I shall go for this.. what was it? Astrain? I will strike a deal with their King or Queen and perhaps gain an ally." He said, standing up to walk away, "But sir shouldn't you take--" One of the councilmen said before Xentrev cut him off, "No! I will go alone. I sail for Astrain." He said walking to the port city and boarding a ship to Astrain.


@Graecus Scum @Play On Words