The World of Ioria

[KhalZhavvorsa]

The uneasy, the unrest, the whispers in the shadows, it all started just scant months ago with the ravings of madmen and doomsayers followed by symbols of foreign idols and blood sacrifices that appeared in every nation across the land... Then, at last, came the monsters. From portals of blood, crystal, bone and shadows poured forth abominations never before seen in the world of Ioria. They defied logic and reason even in a world of mysticism and magic like Ioria and left devastation and terror in their wake.

The screams of fanatics have grown, large intricate cults have sprouted up in the underbelly of every nation and entire war hordes of monsters now roam the countryside burning and ravaging their way, bellowing their chants and war cries to unknown gods. The most befuddling of all is the lack of uniformity. Each cult seems different, each symbol... odd and there are even reports of the monsters fighting and slaying each other with an ever greater abandon then the unaware local populace. The portals which spew forth the demons have grown in number and there are reports that the cultist are even, somehow, able to even bring them about with strange rituals and any attempts to investigate the other side of the portal have been meet with haunting silence as none have yet to return.

Some scattered reports claim the cultist and demons are looking for something, an object of power that can tear the veil between worlds asunder and bring in the unending tide that awaits upon the other side, but in this new world of murder, lies and fanatics, it is hard to say what is truth and what is merely the crazed ramblings of lunatics.

Due to the increased amounts of attacks, the rulers of each Kingdom have agreed to come together and meet on the neutral territory of Mesalin. Hopefully they can all agree on a way to handle this threat.
​

OOC: https://www.rpnation.com/threads/the-world-of-ioria-occ.353925/
Lore: https://www.rpnation.com/threads/the-world-of-ioria-lore.353926/
Character Sheets: https://www.rpnation.com/threads/the-world-of-ioria-character-sheets.353937/
Kingdom Sheets: https://www.rpnation.com/threads/the-world-of-ioria-kingdom-sheets.353929/

 

[KhalZhavvorsa]

Bellatrix sighed deeply as she began to pack a small trunk full of clothes, most of which were black. She was to be heading out later this evening to go to Mesalin. A small nation that has, and always will be, neutral territory. It's a quaint little country and is quite beautiful..but nothing would ever be the same as Quanni. Bellatrix hated leaving home, and hated even more that she and the other..diplomats would have to meet on neutral soil to talk about the crisis that has struck nearly every nation to date. It was ridiculous..but a necessary evil, as politics usually were. Bellatrix would be taking Arkos with her and leaving Lucilla to what over her nation while she was gone for a few days. She had confidence the young princess could handle herself, as Bellatrix had taught her well. A small smile crossed her face at the thought of her daughter ruling over their great nation, something she would have do one when Bellatrix was ready to retire, if she ever did. The thought lingered for a little while longer before Bellatrix returned to the task at hand, packing. Ugh. A dreadful task.

As Bellatrix packed, she wondered idly about the other nations; just how much damage did these cultist do to them..did they think she was the cause of this? It was very likely. Bellatrix was still known around the world for being an evil necromancer who defiles the dead and raises demons. It was almost humorous if it weren't for the fact of the cultist problem. Bellatrix had never encountered demons and monsters like the ones that had fled through the portals, even stranger they attacked one another sometimes. It was all just a giant mind fuck. Or at least she thought so. She had no idea just how this meeting would go..or what may be said..all she knew was that the last time they had a meeting like this..it was many years ago..and it did not end very well at all. With another sigh escaping her pale lips, Bellatrix finished up her packing and tired to tuck away the thoughts of the meeting, for now. In the mean time, she had to get dressed and find Arkos as well as Lucilla; the hardest two people in the entire kingdom to find. Except maybe Arkos, she could simply command he come to her, not that she would do that to him..there was no need for it.

Bellatrix walked to her rather huge wardrobe and opened it, looking at all the clothes within, Her eyes wandered over each one before she began to look through them with her hands. Carefully she moved each item until she came to a fitting dress, or at least one she found fitting. Carefully she took it and laid it aside before slipping out of her silk nightgown. She paused to look at herself in the mirror, eyeing how her long amethyst hair reached the back of her calves, her smooth pale skin seemed to be flawless..except for the bits at her ankles that were flaking off due to Bellatrix not performing the ritual to restore her beauty..something she would need to do when she returned. With a shake of her head, Bellatrix turned from the mirror and slipped the elegant black dress on then sat at her duchess and began to make herself look more..approachable rather than the hot mess she appeared to be at the moment. While doing so, she would call out to Arkos, "Are you prepared for the trip to Mesalin?" She asked, knowing full well he was likely already up and prepared to head out, as compared to her who was..well..more lax when it came to preparing for a diplomatic voyage.
​

Cosmo

Spoiler: Her Dress

 

[The Fluffiest Floof]

The eerie feeling was getting worse and worse. She couldn´t help but feel like something, somebody, was behind her, running after her, gaining on her. Maria had to run faster, she knew it. There! She heard something, a laughter, a foodstep! And a song... A slow and low humming. It wasnt helping the mood that Maria was in and she started to run even faster. Something was behind her for sure. Something that wanted her life. Coming to Quanni had been a mistake, she had known it, been told so, but she hadn´t listened. The human girl was sprinting through the forrest, everything around her was dark, scary. Was she imagining it or was the humming getting louder? Whatever it was, it had to be gaining on her even more, coming closer and closer.

A few minutes, she ran like that, sometimes looking back. But there was nothing... Still, the humming was getting louder, only a occasional laugh interrupting it. Maria was sure she was going to be caught by whatever chased her, but she had to at least try. That thought kept her going, giving it her all. Soon, the song was so loud, Maria couldn´t even hear her own pants and breaths anymore. And she was in sheer panic. It had to be close, where was it? What was it, that was chasing her, playing with her like that? After a moment of rest to catch her breath, she zigzagged further. The forrest did not seem to take an end, surely she was lost. Then, suddenly, she saw it. Red eyes and a grinning red mouth, between the trees! Only for a second, then, they were gone again. The startle, the scare was strong enough to stop her, make her back away a bit. But she stumbled, she fell. She had lost, now, she wouldn´t be able to run. Desperate, she drew her little dagger. But she felt it, behind her. A person. SHe hurried around, stabbing whatever was there. A pale girl in a beautiful dress. The dagger cut the dress, pierced the side of the girl, that looked surprised. As she gasped, Maria could see the fangs. What creature was that, that had chased her like this? "YOU WONT GET MY LIFE WICKED CREATURE!", Maria shouted. "ILL TAKE IT MYSELF!" Without another thought, the human cut her own throat open. A gurgle was heard, then the bleeding pile of dead human collapsed front to its tormenter.

Lucilla was disturbed. More than that. Not only did the wound in her side sting and bleed a little, it would heal soon, but the fact the human had ended her life. Lucilla was speechless and her eyes started to water. "Nonononono!", she shouted, trying her best to revive the female corpse. Of course, it was of no use at all. After a few minutes, the crying vampire gave up. She closed the corpses eyes and stood up, running home, tears streaming out of her eyes. SHe needed her mum. Bellatrix.

A few minutes was all she needed. She entered the castle, ran to the throne room. Nothing. Next up, she ran to Bellatrixes room. Hit. The queen was just making herself look good, when suddenly, a crying vampire pounced on her, pressing her face into the womans shoulder. "Im sorry...", she muttered. "i didnt want that... I was... I was just having fun... i didnt want that..."

 

[Gabe]

Galandor Thurion
"The southern province sent another distress call, Gal. Looks like they found dead animals in the area, some of them charred and mauled beyond recognition." Ashae handed the letter to Galandor. He sighed, slumping back at his chair. "It's most likely those damned demons. Is the city folk okay?" Ashae shook her head. "Some villages on the rural area were hit. The soldier detachment sent to the area wasn't enough, and casualties were had. Reports said at least 30 people died in the attack before reinforcements could deter the assailants." Galandor put a hand on his face. "And the big fucking problem is that we have no way of knowing where are they going to attack next. It looks like they don't even have an objective. They're just destroying indiscriminately, killing everything alive that crosses their path." Ashae nodded. "So, you're going? To that meeting in Mesalin." Galandor nodded in agreement. "I can't afford to miss it. If I don't go, I may miss important information regarding those beasts, and the jumpier people might even think we'd be in cahoots. It was an invitation, but it feels like a mandatory summon." Ashae motioned talking something, but was interrupted by an armor-clad Dhrom bursting through the door.

The bald tower-like man was being followed by a lieutenant of the Adamantite Guard. The two were in a heated discussion of something Galandor and Ashae didn't quite understand, until Dhrom stopped, smiling at his siblings. The lieutenant did a resolute salute and excused himself, leaving the three alone. "Brother, I heard the news about the attacks on the southern provinces. The people are scared." Galandor sighed. "Within reason. Ash here was asking me about that meeting in Mesalim." Dhrom perked up, approaching the table, sitting next to Ashae. "Yeah, I'm going with ya. It's a great way to learn what the other guys know about this menace, and I'm sure you'll need someone to go with you." Galandor raised an eyebrow and looked at Ashae. The brown haired woman shrugged. "He's as good as anyone, and if he's eager to go, who am I to disagree?" Dhrom patted Ashae's head, who smiled in return. "Thanks, sis. When are we leaving?" Galandor raised from his seat. "As soon as possible. Ash, let Riall and Thymae know that I'm leaving. They're probably with the Earth Mages at the Academy, Ioria knows that they would sleep there if they could." Ashae nodded and after exchanging some small talk and farewells. Dhrom assisted the Guard in fitting the horses for the carriage and assembling the escort, while Galandor dealt with boring bureaucracy and getting intel on the nations attending this meeting. He didn't want to go empty handed, but he was unsure on how would one behave in such meeting. In his years as "ruler", he had his fair share of political meetings, but never on this scale. The most important ones were the commerce and diplomatic meetings that he occasionally did with Bellatrix's envoys from the necromantic nation of Quanni, north of Adaman. They weren't exactly acquainted, as most of the issues were brought by members of her court, so he didn't know much from her beyond her pale visage. The little times they talked however were pleasant. Galandor didn't exactly approve undeath, earth and dark magic didn't get along, but he made an effort to maintain friendly contact with the kingdom.​

 

[BainOfBridges]

Mathias Colandis
The Divine Arbiter

The peak of the spire always smelt of something pleasing to the nostrils. It somehow carried an auroma that was calming. Perhaps from the breeze such heights brings, its soothing tendrils brushing against exposed skin. Or maybe the hint of lavender in the air, ever lingering on the tip of the tongue. Few Mythians had ever stepped foot at this level of their homeland, even fewer outsiders. But the divine arbiter could recite the recollection one outsider had given on the living quarters and the view of this place. It hadn't been one of particular detail. Simply an acknowledgement that the sight over the island of solace and beyond was unlike anything he had ever seen. This was the only piece of evidence Mathias had in his mind to piece together a manner of detail to the room around him. In some ways it wasn't even his own evidence, rather the memory of an arbiter thousands of years ago. In a period of relative stability across Ioria. A time long ago. A time not like now.

Mathias' thoughts snapped back to the present in an instant, eyes opening. Nothing changed to his vision, the eerie sight that was produced by the culmination of his heightened senses was unaltered by the physical act of opening and closing his eyes. But he could feel the blueish grey eyelids peel back. It has always been something that spiked his inner curiousity, some of his predecessors had weighed in on the aspect similarly. Why were they bring with eyelids, or eyes for that matter if they could not use them in the common way? But if they truly were Mythia's children then it would be a symbol of the blindness of justice and order. No manner of mortal wealth of influence would change its course, justice and peace would be unbiased and equal for all the world. Yet in some ways, Mathias believed he could still see. Not a common manner of sight, but the aura of beings- the smells and sounds did all bring together some kind of picture. How did divine arbiter Lucien Dracin put it?

A world on fire.

"Divine." Came a voice from behind Mathias. The presence of another did not startle him. He'd heard the vibrations of boots thudding against a sturdy stone stairwell below. Mathias rose from his sat position on the floor and twisted behind to observe the older man knelt before him. Mathias felt the flicker of a smile pass over his lips, and heard the rustling of skin on the Mythian's face that indicated he too offered the briefest of smiles. In Mythian culture, such was akin to the pair embracing. Were they human such might not be a surprise. The man before him, captain of the spire's sentinels; had been brother to the last arbiter, and now was a close advisor to him. A friendship transcending life and death.

"The brigade of the Mesalin watchtower stands ready to greet us. Are you certain a zealot legion shouldn't accompany us?"

Such a direct question of the arbiter's decisions was near unheard of in the whole order. But Captain Talarn's sister was divine arbiter before Mathias. He knew even his ruler's infinite wisdom could be tempered by inexperience.

"There is no need. The peacekeepers are capable enough, and there won't be violence from other kingdoms."

"Even Quanni? These cults we meet to discuss act as if an extension of their malefic nature."

"The same may be pointed at us." Mathias responded gently as stepped over to the captain. Both knew it was the magistrate that he referred to. Such a group defiling the concept of Mythia's justice would need to be put down quickly and without remorse. This conclave would be of great importance to this mission, and while the threat of deception did sow seeds of concern in the young arbiter's mind; it was tempered by the knowledge of Mesalin's neutrality. The other kingdoms would not want to cause an incident through violence on neutral ground.

"I will ready my travelling gear captain, await my arrival at the base of the spire. May Mythia grant us true sight."​

 

[Clockwork Syringe]

Alexander The "Fireheart"
​

Although he had stopped at his prior school for a guest lecture, Alexander was now in Dernavir as he had a few things he needed to pick up before heading home to his place of birth. Of course, at this lecture the teaching hall was jam packed when he had taught a few days ago. His guess was that the rumors surrounding his draconic blood had spread through the school amongst the students, a relatively handsome draconic blood sorcerer no doubt. The Lecture went as smoothly as he had expected as he had arraigned for a lecture on Dragon Fire, something Alexander could do himself. However, that was a few days ago and now he was in the capital of Quanni. Carriages and horses were more common here in the capital so it should speed up his travel home for the moment. Alexander had also heard rumors of demon attacks and cultist activity increasing. These demon attacks were likely different from the demons he had encountered in his school years as those were more cordial instead of possessing insatiable bloodlust. Sighing, Alexander went off to the market to procure some supplies for his journey and while also hoping nothing bad would happen to him while he did so.
The Fluffiest Floof KhalZhavvorsa

 

[OrenjiGatsu]

Tygo Abbink III, Prince of Moreasland

There is this large hall. On two sides are these long rows of benches, with each row being higher than the one in front of it. Nearly all of these benches where filled with various people. Some were fat, some were thin, some dress in colourful clothes, other dressed simply, some were loud and chatterboxes, some were silent and humble, some were elves, some were men. It is chambers of the Assembly of Elf and Man. It is the most political place in all of Moreasland. In the middle of one end of the hall was this large throne. In it is a man with brown, wavy hair that wearing a brown and red robe. It's none other than the Prince. A person walks in front the Prince in the throne to this podium in the middle of the chambers. On it was a wooden gavel, which the person loudly bangs onto the podium multiple times. With the banging, all talk of the people on the benches goes either silent or to whispers.

"Order, order. Today's meeting of the Assembly of Elf and Man shall commence. Before the scheduled proceedings shall begin, a speech is to be given by Our Majesty, Prince Tygo III, on his planned travel to Mesalin to meet with other nations on the issue of rising mythical dangers."

Tygo rises from his seat and heads to the podium. A brief moment of clapping and cheering happens as he heads over. He looks down at the podium for a moment, then looks up at the Assembly.

"Gentlemen, as you know, tomorrow, I shall be heading out Mesalin. There, I and the other nations shall discuss what to do with these new rising threats. Moreasland has not seen such a magical danger like this since the Second Moreasland Crisis. Several lords and delegates have requested for us to send them money and equipment to improve their town guard. The lord of Meerfort requested that five hundred soldiers and five ballistas groups be sent to the town to reinforce it and the highways around. We cannot let these dangers persist. It shall drive away are businesses to more safer countries. Worst, these groups that have risen stand as a large threat to our form of government. Failure to deal with these groups shall mean the collapse of Moreasland either back into the Magnocracy, or into anarchy." There is a small moment of talking among the Assembly before it all becomes silent again. "According to the Toverij Agency, this is something they and the military cannot do alone. As much as I dislike it, it seems that we'll need the magic forces of other nations to remove this issue from Moreasland." The Assembly then rises up in a mess of booth people shouting their support and those shouting in disagreement. It takes some strikes of the gavel to calm everyone down again.

"I know, it's a common thing here to hate magic. It's what corrupted the previous government. I do want to find a solution that uses the least magic or no magic at all. However, it seems that we are in desperate times. We may have to make some decisions that go against our values. Therefore, I hope that this assembly shall be able to be ready to take necessary actions required to deal with this problems, which will be figured out by this meeting I shall be attending. May this nation stand the heavy storm it is in currently, and come out better than before."

There is much clapping, though not everyone in the benches is doing so. Tygo is relieve to have finished that speech. He is unsure how the Assembly would vote when it comes to what actions to do, though he hopes he has the favours to make it go his way.

A couple of ours later, the Assembly finishes its meeting. The Prince returns to the Royal Palace. There, he meets with his elven wife, Madelon, along with his two kids. He spends some time at his closet, figuring out which clothes to take along. His wife is there helping him.

"I'm not sure why I gave away the large brim hats," he says as he looks through his clothes," the small caps do not seem to fit with the style of my clothes."

"It might be worth it just to wear a black coat and white shirt," replies Madelon," they might like it formal."

"I'm not sure of that. The leaders of the other nations are not merchants, its wizards, warriors, other things. They're most likely going to dress how they want, or wear armour. Have you decided on what you and the children are wearing yet?"

"Well, I kind got some days worth of clothes prepared. Are you sure that the two should come?"

"Of course. Esmée needs to see how I act, just like how my father took me to the Assembly. Also, you have told me to spend more time with them." Tygo pulls out a dark brown coat. "This will go well with the robes. Anyways, it's not like a diplomatic meeting of this size is happening everyday. This is probably the only time she'll be able to see such a meeting before she becomes Princess. Our son just comes along so we do not worry about him while we're away, even though I've appointed my sister to be regent while we're away. Don't worry too much, Madelon. It's a neutral nation, and a nice one to. There are some people with magic, such as that Bellatrix woman, but there are the pikemen guards and Toverij Agents. Also, with the threat at hand, it would be to dangerous for these nations to turn against each other. If they divide, they shall all fall." He pulls out some breeches from the closet as well. "Hopefully I these aren't too tight. I want to walk."

The day ended with some more clothes picking and packing. By the next day, the royal family left Roodeiland on their trip to the neutral nation. They are accompanied by some security, consisting of two Toverij agents, four pikemen, and two crossbowmen.

 

[Cosmo]

Arkos stared out over the dark landscape that stretched out before him, the empty sockets that constituted the closest thing to 'eyes' he had left taking it all in. His rusted and decayed armor a start contrast to the beautiful surroundings of the castle around him, yet, as decrepit as his armor was, it was stronger then it had been when he breathed empowered... and corrupted, as his body had been during that night so long ago. A council. Arkos did not have much faith in this misbegotten venture, rulers, he found, tended to be like spoiled children and, at best, he would get to see egotistical men and women acting like roosters as they talked about how great they were and how 'easily' the situation would be dealt with, terrified of looking anything but strong before their peers... or, they would 'get along' and when everything was on the table, and the cultist were tearing out the stomachs of their 'allies', their 'help' would constantly find ways to be delayed as they delighted in rivals being weakened.

He leaned over the wall, his armored forearms making an annoying screech as they skidded over the stone parapet, a sound that would have once sent a shiver down his spine and now all Arkos could feel was the 'ghostly' false sensation of what it used to feel like. To make it worse, Bellatrix was leaving Lucilla in charge. The princess was not ready, and Arkos... did not believe she would ever be ready. She showed a lack of understanding of her actions and the consequences, and he could only wonder on how many more people would suffer from her 'games' before some sort of shred of humanity would reveal itself in her. She was like a child, torturing insects and not understanding, nor caring, about the insect or the damage to it until someone smacked her hand and said, 'no'. Arkos wasn't sure if she was truly capable of feeling shame or guilt any longer or if, like Bellatrix and himself, something was broken in her, but then... perhaps Lucilla had never had that 'thing' to begin with, that 'spark' of a conscious.

Arkos had firmly opposed Lucilla being put in charge. It would have been better to name one of the prominent nobles as castellan until their return, or he should have been left behind to watch over Lucilla, act as a leash. Instead, he was being taken for.. reasons he did not understand. Bellatrix didn't need him there, unless she intended to make him act as a form of intimidation, he had no true purpose in a diplomatic venture like this. But he doubted she would hear it. She had decided he would go, and so he would go. Not like he had an option in most of his life... or unlife, it was hard to know exactly what to call it.

He resisted the urge to turn to the voice, the voice that truly did not 'exist' and was only in his head, yet it sounded as if it had been whispered over his shoulder. "Yes," Arkos responded as.. what need did he to 'pack'? He had his sword, his armor, his shield, his dagger... that was it. Arkos had no need to 'change', wasn't like he was winning any beauty contest being a metal container full of bones and dust. He even had Dro'Khan saddled and ready should the need to fly come in hand, and if he was lucky, he could fly astride his partner and not have to endure 'small talk', the very idea sent more ghost shivers down his spine. He hated small talk.
​

KhalZhavvorsa The Fluffiest Floof

 

[KhalZhavvorsa]

Bellatrix had just finished adding the last bit touched to her look before Lucilla came busting in and burred her head into her shoulder, crying. She blubbered something about not meaning for things the end the way they did and Bellatrix immediately knew what her daughter had done. Another 'game' gone wrong. With a small sigh, she turned toward her weeping daughter and held her tightly, letting the vampire's head rest against her chest as she gentle pet the young girl's hair. "There there Lulu." She said in a calm voice, knowing full well she would have to reprimand her..but that could come after she stopped crying and could talk a bit more. As with every time this happened, Bellatrix used the nickname she had given her daughter, a name only they shared. She had hoped Lucilla would stop with the games when Bellatrix had told her she was in charge while she was away..but apparently that was not what had happened. Another deep sigh came to her as Arkos replied to her question, leaving her wondering if she should really take him..or ask that he stay behind to insure that Lucilla could take her duties as princess seriously. Perhaps..that was the best option..and she didn't really need him there..only..wanted him there. A display of power. Even still..bringing him for that reason wasn't just. The other rulers wouldn't take kindly to it, as Arkos can be rather..unsettling. But would he stay? A question she had to ask him. He likely wouldn't enjoy playing babysitter to Lucilla.

It was always clear to her, since Lucilla started her games, that Arkos didn't like it. He found her..immature, and perhaps she was. Maybe..maybe he could harden her in way Bellatrix could not. Would..would it be a good thing? Likely. "Arkos.." She eased into it, knowing full well he would do it..just..not like it. "Would you.." She hesitated, "Stay and watch over Lucilla? I fear she may not be ready to be alone while I am gone..and..perhaps..you can..teach her better than I can.." She said, her eyes closing as her head rested upon Lucilla's. She hated asking him to do such a thing, hated even more that she had to have a 'babysitter' for Lucilla..but she had not done as Bellatrix had asked. The games needed to stop..they were not good for Lucilla..or the kingdom. Arkos could harden her. She only hoped he would do it in a matter that made Lucilla understand why her games needed to stop. Bellatrix had tried..she tried so very many times..but she was far too soft on the girl..and so her lessons were more..suggestions than punishments. An issue that Bellatrix also needed to fix. If the undead could feel pain..Bellatrix figired she would have a headache a mile long from all the stress she was undergoing. First the cultists..now leaving for a meeting of rulers. It was going to be a long day. Luckily she was able to pull of 'put together' well. Bellatrix appeared professional with her dark make-up and red lips. Her long purple hair now pulled back into an elegant up-do that still had quite a bit hanging down to go all the way down to the bottom of her spine. She looked the part, now she had to act it.
​

The Fluffiest Floof
Cosmo

Spoiler: General Hairstyle..But Longer

 

[The Fluffiest Floof]

Chouette Sova​

Chouette had spent her day sitting in a tree until now. One person had approached her, they wanted to know if his wife cheated on him. A stupid question, in Chouette´s opinion. Luckily, the owlgirl already had that knowledge. A few weeks ago, one of her owls had spotted exactly that female with her lover. Of course the amorous part of that was not mattering to Chouette, but the information that this particular woman, married, had a lover, was saved. as it might come in handy. And here she was, weeks later, needing exactly that information.

"Well of course i could find that out for you. In fact, i already know it! I will gladly give you the information... for the right price." The man sighed, he knew that had been coming, but he was prepared. "Yes, yes, i will give you 1 gold and 40 silver drokma.", the man replied, shrugging and handing the owlgirl a pouch. A quick look inside from her and she nodded. "Alright. The truth is... Yes. She has a lover. Take this. What you do with it, is your responsibilty. " She handed him a piece of paper, that had a name and a drawn picture of the lover. "Well then, is there anything else you need?", she asked, the man shaking his head sadly. He halfheartedly thanked Chouette, as he then turned to leave.

Chouette took a sip of her tea. Just then, an owl landed next to her. Not that there were none, the tree was full of owls, but a new one landed. It came close to Chouette, as if trying to tell her something. Chouette listened to the owl, giggling. "Oh... and she already knows, yes? I see... And the human... oh... That might be... important..." The owlgirl chuckled. "Let´s head to the queen and tell her..." With a jump, Chouette got into the air, spreading the wings, that looked like her cloak. The owls got into the air behind her, as she flew towards the castle. The queen, as the owl girl knew, was in her personal room, just as her daughter. She was getting ready for the meeting of rulers. Chouette would attend it as well, no matter what Bellatrix wanted. It would be way too informative to not go.

Soon, Chouette had reached the window of the room, landing on it and opening it from the outside. A trick she had learned over time. Then, she sat down on the window´s ledge, her feet hanging inside. The owls landed next to her, two carrying a teapot, one a small plate and one a cup. Then, they prepared a cup of tea for their leader, who looked at Bellatrix. "You´re preparing for the meeting. You still have to tell me when you leave. Not that i wouldn´t know if you don´t, but we can at least act like you want me with you." Chouette chuckled. "I can be useful, you know? Anyways... We both know what happened to your princess, don´t we? What if i tell you... it was a human... and not a citizen of Quanni?"

 

[August]

Diana Winry Faria​

The Queen of Faria was uncharacteristically drained today. Diana had just returned from a lab that she had to commute all the way to another mountain to, only to get nothing out of it. The had captured some infected villagers from a smaller settlement who made the mistake of inviting a carnival in and the whole place ended up being destroyed through some unknown disease. If this wasn't bad enough, there were other groups of mysterious beings who seemingly came from nowhere. This whole thing was a disaster, and her people were looking to her for a solution she couldn't give . . . At least not yet.

Ignoring all servants trying to tend to her, Diana had locked herself into her chambers to get some down time. If it wasn't for the pressing matters at hand, she would have skipped out on the meeting with some lame excuse. Of course as much as she had done it in the past, she couldn't spoil herself when so many lives were at stake as well as her pride as the Queen. This was 100 times worse than anything she had encountered, and it bothered her that she couldn't find a solution alone. Even with Minos's ability she wasn't able to get anything from it before he had simply just shut down on her, so there was that major disappointment.

With Minos suddenly on her mind, the queen reluctantly sat up to better focus on messaging her linklin. She didn't typically bring him on trips with her out of the kingdom, nor did she show him off the other rulers. On this rare occasion, she would make an exception and it wasn't as a show of power, she honestly believed that he could be of some use.
"Pack you're things, we're leaving by late sun."

Minos Demoore​

"I've already packed." Minos simply replied, and it really was the truth. During one of his meditations, he had foreseen the possibility of Diana bringing him along to the meeting between rulers and decided to be prepared regardless if the vision was true or not. It seemed as if his powers weren't as weakened as he felt they were, of course it was only an insight of what his future would lie. He could had just had easily been mistaken and Diana had actually sent him off on some other trip that was disconnected from the meeting, so maybe his power was as weak as he felt it was.

"You seem tired. Are you sure you don't want to rest a bit more?" The Linklin asked as he opened his eye and unconsciously tilted his head as he waited by the seconds for her answer. One second . . . Two seconds . . . Three seconds-
"We don't have the luxury to rest, we leave by late sun."
Roughly around three seconds for her to reply . . . Minos frowned slightly at that, seeing this as a clear indicator of the state his Master was in. With a sigh, the linklin begrudgingly uncrossed his legs and got up from the floor. He had time to spare, so he might as well go get some sort of treat for his queen to lift her spirits.

 

[BainOfBridges]

Mathias Colandis
The Divine Arbiter

"Divine."

"Divine."

"Divine."

And so repeated the greeting in an almost monotonous fashion. Mathias dipped his head in turn, again and again. He'd almost formed a rhythmic pattern to it as he passed by the Mythians the walking through the vast spiralling stairwell. Mathias knew every hall, walkway and room of the spire, if he were human he might say he could traverse the vast tower city blindfolded. In a way he was. He was descending to the centerpiece of the spire's base. He could tell. The smell of fresh cut greenery that lined the railing that was smoothly carved into mountainous rock. The feeling of the sun warmly brushing the side of his pale blue cheek. The vibrations of a congregation forming around the entrance to the fey. Mathias knew that would be the guards taking stance in their formation. He guessed the extra sound was some spectators. A less common occurrence, it was rare for the Mythians to see dignitaries of the order off on their missions or peacekeepers to resupply contested fronts. It was simply another part of their day, another part of their duty. Youngers perhaps? Yes. At this time they'd have just finished their afternoon sparring regiments.

An outdraft of air brushed over his pulled back hair as vast double doors were opened for him once he reached the base of the stairwell. There was a collective stamp that echoed against the goliath walls and pillars that held the mountain up over the portal. The Mythians on guard and their younger observers had all snapped to attention, dominant fist held across their chest. Not a foot out of place, not a second too late. It was the type of discipline military commanders would have wet dreams of. Discipline brought about by literal lifetimes of service to a greater creed. Mathias' stride carried him quickly across the room, the guards falling at ease as they sensed him pass like a wave of relaxing arms.

Captain Talarn would be waiting on the other side for him, probably dressed identically to him. Leather plated armour with chain mail woven through that was of standard issue to all Mythians. That was where the standard nature ended. It was of expert craftsmanship. Protective and lightweight; it wore like such a second skin that one could forget they were even wearing armour. The two swords sheathed beside on another on his back made clanks as their cold steel blades brushed against one another that was muted only by the sheathes they were housed in. Were it not a fairly common sight on many peacekeepers Mathias could easily be mistaken for a common sell sword or peasant mercenary.

"Divine. The watchtower awaits your arrival. The council stands ready to moderate until your arrival."

"Very good. We shan't be long."

Mathias paused for a briefest of moments. A sign of nerves? Should he be nervous? This was his first world facing appearance as the leader of the Order of Mythia. The wider kingdoms of course did not know of the nature of the Divine Arbiter, its reincarnation through the new generation. So what would they think of him? So young yet leading the forces keeping law across the Ioria, even in some of their kingdoms? No. The Divine Arbiters of old have faced challenges far greater. He will not let meetings over cultists shake his conviction. He stepped forward into the rippling tower of orange energy that surged upward from the underground's. In a blinding flash, the energy dissipated; and Mathias was gone.​

 

[Cosmo]

To say Arkos was surprised was an understatement, once Bellatrix decided something, she didn't tend to change her mind unless the world, itself, was ending and even then he would bet on her not changing her decision just to spite the ending of the world. Something had to have happened, but now it was his turn to feel divided. It was easy to bemoan having to travel and engage in small talk with the 'rulers' of other nations, but now that he was being asked to stay, away from Bellatrix, it was odd. He couldn't remember the last time they were separated for more then a week, it was an odd sensation, but it was for the best, something he had decided moments ago, the princess was not, and he doubted, would ever be okay, and the fact Bellatrix was asking him to watch her means she did something. Again.

It did need to end. Later, once Bellatrix was on her way, he would bring in the family of the deceased and the princess would explain to the family why their loved one was no longer of this world, perhaps, if he was lucky, seeing the results of her actions in person would insert some form of humanity into her. If not, then she was truly lost and would bring only despair to a nation that had long had its fill of it. "I will watch her, instruct her, and if needed, correct any mistakes she makes, you have my word," Arkos responded... he paused and added a tiny thought to the end, "Stay safe," a needless though as the Lich Queen was a hard person to kill, but it had to be said.

Arkos leaned back over the ledge and peered out into the darkness, suddenly feeling every long year of his existence as he let out a tired sigh.



​

 

[KhalZhavvorsa]

In the middle of comforting her daughter, Chouette appeared with her owls..meaning she was going to bring more bad news. Another sigh escaped Bellatrix's lips as she looked from the spy to her daughter. "Lucilla..these games have to stop. I mean it. I cannot cover for you every time your games end in death. Because of this..I am leaving you with Arkos while I am away." She warned, her voice giving away no idication that she was remotely joking. "In the meantime, Choutte, prepare your things, you will be going in place of Arkos." She said, knowing fully well Choutte could handle this meeting like a piece of cake, and she would be able to properly asses everyone in the room and find out information about them. A useful swap..but Bellatrix still wished for Arkos's company. In a way..she saw it as a way for the two of them to be on a sort of..vacation..but things had to be done..and her daughter was not fit to be alone. If Arkos could not teach her while Bellatrix was away..then perhaps Lucilla was not meant to rule, meaning Bellatrix could not retire. Ever. A long sigh before she heard Arkos's answer, the last part nearly making her smile, but she resisted. "Thank you." Was all she replied back to him before giving her attention to Lucilla, knowing full well Choutte would be gone and packing, she was not one to lag behind when it came to something she wanted to do, nor when it was something as serious as this was.

***
Hours later, Bellatrix had calmed Lucilla and was able to gather all her things and have them placed on the boat. It was time for Bellatrix to depart..and as much as she hated it..Arkos would not be going..for the first time in many..many years..they would be apart. Emotional pain stung in her chest, but she had no choice..and with his compliance..everything would work out. She knew it. Her gut feeling told her it would, even if Lucilla was very unhappy with her about the whole Arkos being her babysitter. Moments later, Bellatrix was escorted to the docks. The entire carriage ride there was filled with a rather..anxious vibe. No one really liked when the Queen had to leave her country..it usually meant bad things. During the ride, Bellatrix's mind began to wonder. She had no idea what the magnitude of these attacks were..as for Quanni..they came in the form of utter surprise. She couldn't find a pattern..perhaps the others had? Perhaps the other rulers had already made plans against her? The thought was unlikely..as no one truly had any evidence Bellatrix was involved..but that was also a main point. Many knew her as a tyrant..and evil tyrant..others..well they called her friends. She looked forward to seeing one of her old friends again, as it had been a very long time since either of them had last communicated, as for the rest? It would be interesting.

Only an hour later and the carriage rolled to a stop. When she emerged, she saw the faces of many of her people. They had come to wish their Queen luck in far off affairs, as well as a safe voyage. Bellatrix gave a wave to them and a forced smile that looked real, but only Arkos would know the truth..he would know just how much she dreaded this..and how much she really wished he could be with her. After that, it was only a few seconds more before she was on the boat and headed out to sea, her mind rolling about the goodbyes she had left. For both Arkos and Lucilla she left them a kiss on their foreheads, which meant both of them was going to have fun removing her dark red lip stick from their bodies. At the thought of that, Bellatrix smiled to herself. She would miss them. A lot. But hopefully while she was gone Arkos could show Lucilla how to be stronger..and teach her the true issue of her game.

***
The ship ride was long but calm. It wasn't long before the dark ebony wood ship had docked at Mesalin's shores; marking that Quanni had arrived. Bellatrix emerged from her quarters within the ship, holding a black lacy parasol to ward off the sun's rays. Speaking of the sun, it had blinded her for a moment as her eyes adjusted to something she had not seen in ages. Once she could see again, Bellatrix deported from the ship, her heels making knocking noises as she walked along the wood of the docks. Mesalin was a tropical paradise, to say the very least. It was warm and slight humid today, with the clear waters reflecting the warm sun off them. A beautiful area, and wonderful vacation spot, were it not for the reason that all the rulers were here..Bellatrix may actually of enjoyed seeing this land again, but for the time being..she could only think about what was to come.

Bellatrix was glad that the meeting hall wasn't far from the docks, as the land of Mesalin was very..against modes of transportation that was not boat or your own feet, and for Beallatrix..that was her own feet. She of course could of sat in a fancy box and had people carry her..but was good was that? She would miss the chance to actually take in the scenery of this gorgeous place. It would be a little bit of a walk..but it was worth every step. ​

 

[Gabe]

Galandor Thurion
Galandor made sure to pass through the town hit by the demon attack, on his way to the port town of Somon. The city was still recovering from the attack, but the sudden presence of the Gaean made the town much happier. Galandor helped rebuild the walls and houses, and assisted with the injured. Spending a day on the city, the emperor left after reinforcing the walls, damaged during the relentless strike of the monsters. After half a day, he reached Somon, where a ship was just about ready for him. The Aldennhan was a rather large Brigantine, usually used for patrols on Adaman's waters. Its sails were adorned with the sword emblem of the country, and the hull was decorated with a green design, painted on its length. Galandor insisted that a simple ship was fine, but his advisers were resolute in the ship's choice. With the ship loaded and supplied, Galandor, Dhrom and his guard were set off to Mesalin.
Galandor wasn't good with water, keeping him away from land wasn't pleasant at all. Seasickness was common for when he had to go overseas, something that Dhrom didn't share. The stoic Gaean helped Galandor review the invitees of the meeting, starting with Bellatrix. Amakin, Mathias, Tygo, Diana, Fenrir, all of them were presented to Galandor, to prevent a diplomatic disaster. The emperor did his best to memorize and learn every name, between bouts of sickness. Dhrom could only laugh as his brother's expressions, but he helped the Gaean to his feet.
As soon as they saw Mesalin, another ship was ahead of them. Made of ebony wood, it was unmistakably from Quanni. It was a sign that they were going to meet Bellatrix's ensemble right at the port. Galandor wasn't a man of customs, so he chose a simple commoner's clothes to disembark from the ship. Dhrom donned his Forge-Born armor, making him stand out a lot more on the crowd, actually making him look like the Emperor of Adaman, while Galandor looked like a simple assistant or advisor. As soon as they arrived, Galandor was out of the ship, happy to be in the land. Spotting the black-clad lich, he decided to go and make his acquaintance. It was a great opportunity to meet his neighbor and discuss the problems before the actual meeting. As the ensemble arrived, Galandor gave a friendly wave, while Dhrom bowed before the ruler of Quanni.
KhalZhavvorsa ​

 

[The Fluffiest Floof]

Chouette Sova​

Chouette followed each movement the queen made with her not visible eyes, scanning. Of course, neither Bella nor Lucilla proposed a threat, but being ever watchful was just her nature. Maybe that came from being an owl. Maybe not. Chouette did not really care. She witnessed how Bellatrix scolded her daughter, again, for her games, talking about leaving Arkos behind. A move Chouette had not expected. Understandable, however, and, even though the owl tried to keep her emotion out of her thoughts, she couldn´t help but be relieved. She did not really like Arkos, for the fact that he oftenly noticed her collecting information on the royals as well. Something he didn´t seem to like.

Bellatrix then told Chouette to get ready. So the queen decided she would take the owl with her. A good decision, Chouette would be more than useful in a meeting like that. "I am ready, Bellatrix. Me, my owls and my tea set are all i have on me, no matter where i go. And some money, of course. Speaking of which, i got an interesting infor... no, now´s not the time. I´ll tell you once we get back." The owl then chuckled and hopped out the window, her owls and her flying of. She would wait at the port.

Soon, they started their journey towards the meeting point. And soon, the usually so calm and collected Chouette became a bit weird. "I hate the sea. I hate ships. I hate it.", she repeatedly muttered, curled up to a small ball of cloak and feathers at the midde of the boat. It was like that every time the owl had to go somewhere by ship. She was getting sea-sick, she was hating the waving of the ship and the lack of land. The lack of trees and safe ground. But luckily enough, the trip wouldn´t be long.

Before reaching the port, an owl reported to Chouette. "Soon... Land... And Galandor of Adaman right behind us. I see.", she whispered, a ill chuckle escaping her mouth, before a groan did. But after little time, she felt the ship reach the land. Immediatly, the owlgirl was at her feet, spreading her wings, taking of and flying for a few seconds. Then, she landed on the docks, immediatly having her owls land around her. She saw the people of Adaman arrive and chuckled again, already having a cup of tea in her hands, sipping. "Galandor, mineral ruler of Adaman.", she told Bellatrix. Not that the queen didn´t know, who she was looking at, but Chouette had fun acting all advisor-like. Then, she chuckled and waved her wing. "Good to see the ruler of Adaman remained grounded instead of having his head in the clouds." A last time, she chuckled, before sipping her tea and shutting up.

Amakin II Carivar​

Amakin was restlessly pacing the thronehall of his castle. 'And you are sure you can handle everything, Granor?', he asked his guard´s general and most trusted person. Currently, that was the only person able to understand him. The other bearer of the mark had passed a few weeks ago. "Of course, milord. It is me, who is concerned. We don´t have a new champion yet, since Iliya had that unlucky accident... Are you sure you do not want to take some reinforcements with you?" A grumble came out of the blazing helmet. "Don´t remind me... I still wonder how he got himself killed with that. And what were the peanuts for? Anyways. That is not of importance now. I do not need anyone. The meeting will be peacefull, further, i still have Marlon at my side.' "Marlon is a hypogryph, not a warrior." 'Marlon is both. And i trust her with my life.' The head of the guard nodded.

A few hours later, Amakin was already on his way. The hypogryph that carried him, his personal steed, Marlon, was in golden armor plates, where it did not hinder her. Like that, he soared through the sky, towards his destination. The meeting. His way, however, was a little longer. But the king did not grow tired, he enjoyed riding Marlon every time. And so did the hypogryph.

After a few more hours of flight, Mesalin came into sight. 'Marlon, i will drop of near the port there. You go find yourself a nice place to land. Be sure to come when i give you the whistle.', he told the hypogryph. It had his mark as well, it had been his since he could think. Marlon had not even resisted or struggled, when she had gotten the mark.
Soon, the area Amakin meant was in sight. The hypogryph went down to a reasonable height, now being visible from the ground. Then, Amakin patted her head, before sliding of it, his sword with him. He and the gigantic blade flew towards the ground. But that was nothing he couldn´t stand.

It really was an impressive and intimidating thing to see, when the glowing, kindled armor of three meters height and the just as glowing sword landed in the water. It immediatly started turning to steam and splashing, revealing the gigantic armored man kneeling, the sword stuck in the ground next to him. Slowly, he raised, grabbing his weapon´s hilt and ripping it free. Then, he stored it at his back, where it belonged, slowly walking out of the water, towards the port. There, he noticed two other rulers. One of them actually able to understand him. But he did not butt into their conversation, keeping a polite distance.

Lucilla Vincetia​

THe girl took her time to calm down, but eventually, not at last because the creepy owl girl(yes, Lucilla finds Chouette creepy) entered. Soon, the princess realized that this time, she had gone to far. SHe already knew Arkos and Bellatrix did not approve her games, but now, she seemed to have overdone. Even having Arkos stay home... Lucilla knew how much her mother had looked forward to the journey with him... She had disappointed her, that made her feel even worse than the fact somebody died.

Soon, her mother had left, leaving her and Arkos behind. "I have to be responsible now.", she muttered to herself. Enterering the throne room, she looked around. "ARKOS?", she asked, hoping the trusted friend of her mother would show up. She wanted to know what she had to do. She wanted to do everything right, so asking was the best way.

 

[August]

Minos Demoore​

Even with the many secret tunnels they had access too, the trip down the mountain to the lower areas of their country was still tiring. They used many magically infused items to pick up the pace, but they would still be one of the late parties. They had very few ports in their country due to the mostly frosted over land, so they really needed to commute. His Master's plans to play off being tired didn't last long and as soon as they got settled onto the ship, the queen had retired into some sleeping quarters under deck to rest.

Although the linkln hadn't acted excited about the trip, he still wandered the ship, getting an intake of everything his eye could see. This was one of the first few times Diana had ever taken him with her outside of the kingdom which was also kind of left a bad taste in his mouth as he came to understand that this meant things were pretty serious. As foolish as it was, he had hoped Diana would be able to find some kind of formula that would solve everything but atlas this was not the case and she was going to have to meet up with the others to figure things out.

Leaning over edge of the boat, Minos stared down at the water, his view of the kingdom had faded long ago, and most of the icy bits of the water they has already passed. They didn't take too much company with them, just a Duo Pair and the sailors who wouldn't be going along to the meeting .With a sigh Minos glanced up to the sky to get a good idea of time. It appeared they weren't on schedule and even if these sailors exerted themselves out completely they'd probably arrive with only a few minutes left to spare. Maybe this was why Diana often skipped meetings . . . Or maybe they weren't important enough for her to miss out on other things. Minos pulled away from the ledge and found himself a spot to seat since the Farian Sailors had gotten the ship to sail faster, and he had already seen the possible outcome of him falling out of the boat if he stayed at the ledge for long.
"We won't be so late after all." He updated the queen via mind, and of course she didn't really respond with more than a simple sense of acknowledgement.

 

[doodleSM]

Teoxicoehua
​

There was a silence upon the pyramid, after the small Karraptor was sacrificed to the Ideal Philosophy. This was a prayer to the Ideal Philosophy, to figure out what these cults and monsters meant. They full heartily believed for a long period of time that the Philosophy had simply decided these beasts and cults were the natural order of the cycle of life and death, and that the Karsaurs must accept that. However, recent divination and ritual gave way to hint that these beasts are probably not the most natural thing in the world.

The great boon was gifted to the alter. A carat of gold, a Karraptor brain, and a javelin from said Karraptor. A Karraptor priest of the Philosophy came to Teox, he sighs and says quite demoralized and pleading. "Teoxicoehua, give it up. You have to go to the meeting, it's for the best of the Karsaurs and the Karraptors of Xochipilli and the islands surrounding us." Teox sighs, gripping his mace, "I shall depart then towards the meeting." He looks over into the dense jungle, from atop of the pyramid. "I still believe that the Philosophy has plans for these beasts and cults. We shall leave Xiopil tomorrow, head for Masalin for this meeting. I fear leaving Xochipilli again. I fear more warlords will rise up and attempt to dethrone me."

The next day​

Teox got onto the Karsaur boat. These boats were primitive and far behind in seafaring technology. The crew was packed for several days and nights of travel towards Masalin. They had a smooth trip, though Teox was still fearing his throne and his position as the King of the Karsaurs. He felt like his crew might betray him at any given chance they have.

The crew arrives in Masalin, they dock and Teox begins to make his way towards the meeting spot. The Karsaur stood out from the rest of the humanoids. he was wearing ornamental Karsaur armor, with intricate designs on the plating of the bronze and bone armor. He approaches the meeting area, ignoring most of the foreign design. Teox believes that the design of this city was odd and foreign to the much more practical city planning of the Karsaurs.

 

[KhalZhavvorsa]

It was not long after her had deported from the ship and walked about five feet away before another ship ported, and boy did it look..fancy. A lot fancier than her's. The best it bore was that of her neighbors across the border, meaning they had likely left just after she did. A simply chuckle escaped her at the design of the ship, wondering just how flashy her neighbor was. Or rather..his advisers. Bellatrix knew a small bit about Galandor, but the few times they had met face to face..ended rather quickly. Business like. She wondered if while they were here, she could get to know him more, as opposed to all their meetings being formal. Deciding to wait, Bellatrix stood admiring the ship before the man himself, in plain clothes, descended and approached with man in lots of armor. Galandor gave a wave, but his partner bowed before her, something Bellatrix was not expecting. Before she could say a word, Choutte spoke. Her words nearly made Bellatrix lose her composure, as..it was..slightly hilarious that she was picking on him..when she, herself, was just sea-sick moments ago.

With a smile to the two of them, Bellatrix set her lilac eyes on Galandor. "Why hello~" She spoke, her elegant voice sounding much friendlier than it did back at the kingdom. Shortly after that, Amakin came flying out of the sky in a rather..impressive nature. He even stuck the landing. She would certainly have to commend him for that one. Though she was curious why he didn't just..take a ship rather than..fly. Wasn't his kingdom just a tad bit farther out? Whatever the reason, he had certainly made an entrance. "My my Amakin~ You impress me once more." She called to him through their connection. It was easy for her to communicate to him now that she bore his marking, one Arkos had very much disagreed with. Perhaps it was because Amakin touched her..or because he simply could not hear what they discussed. Either way, Bellatrix could distinctively remembered Arkos being sour about that. Think of him once again brought her a bit of sadness..as they were now miles apart, and although all she had to do was call out to him..it was not nearly the same as having the man next to her. Bellatrix mentally shook away the thoughts of Arkos, for the moment, and focused back on Galandor and Amakin when she remembered what Choutte had told her before. Great. She would have to tell Amakin of what happened..of how Lucilla..esh. Perhaps she could break it to him easy..or maybe..she could take the blame..as she always did. Bellatrix was not a fan of people thinking her daughter a crazed lunatic..she would rather them hate her over Lucilla.

Still, while all this went through her head, she kept a calm smiling face, her eyes giving away nothing.
​

Gabe
The Fluffiest Floof

 

[Gabe]

Galandor Thurion
Galandor motioned to speak, when a gold-clad Hippogryph landed neatly on the port. Galandor wasn't fond of flying creatures, but the armor that gryph was wearing was of the highest quality, so as a smithing enthusiast, he stared. Druth cleared his throat, which made Galandor break eye contact and return his gaze to the ruler in front of him. Druth took a deep breath, taking the formal tone he usually uses on diplomatic meetings. "Good morning, Queen Bellatrix. I'm Druth Thurion, general of the Adamantite Guard. I'm pleased to make your acquaintance." Galandor bowed as well, in respect. "Good morning to you, Queen Bellatrix. I hope the tropical sun isn't taking a toll on you. Quanni is always cloudy, from the times I went there." He smiled and turned to the gryph rider, also bowing. "And good morning to you, King Amakin. I'm Galandor Thurion, appointed emperor of Adaman, and this is my brother, Druth." Druth repeated the motions. "Good morning, King Amakin." The Aldenhan, Galandor's ship, was busier than ever, unloading the supplies and potential gifts for the others. Galandor's face took on a much more somber mood. "I wish this meeting wouldn't be necessary. I know this will all be discussed over the meeting, but I'm really concerned about those attacks. They follow no pattern, it's as if they don't have a plan." A particular loud shout from one of the sailors made Galandor realize that he was occupying lots of space on the port already, between the cargo and his ensemble. "Shall we move on? I still have yet to meet any Mesalini escort, I'm afraid."
KhalZhavvorsa The Fluffiest Floof ​

 

[Cosmo]

Arkos looked down at the numerous papers sprawled over his desk. Since the departure of Bellatrix, and after cleaning off that very, very difficult to remove lipstick stain, Arkos had avoided the princess. Not because he did not wish to see her, but because he had to prepare. It had been.. difficult, to find the victim of Lucilla's 'game'. He had to comb the records of all the bodies found within the week, rule out those that were not obvious suicides and then, from what remained, pick the victim that Lucilla would have chosen. Maria Vinceia, a human, little more then a child. Slit her own throat while running from an invisible predator, having stolen a dagger as a means to defender herself. She had a family, a father, mother and younger brother, a noble family that had recently come to their nation on 'vacation', a silly idea, to escape the past and heal from old ruins as the town they oversaw was torn apart by a Green Carnival cultist group where their eldest boy, Rothan, fell defending the town as leader of the militia. Tragedy seemed to have followed the family, and Arkos didn't doubt that it was that sadness and aura of death that she had, perhaps subconsciously, fixated on. Maria Vinceia. Arkos had taken pains to visit the family, as unwanted as someone like him was, and pay his respects at the child's funeral, a small affair that was little more then wrapping the daughter up in rough linens as they prepared for the long voyage back, it appeared they were new to this as the body was not.. properly prepared, she would start to decompose on the way back and the smell would be... awful as would the risk of disease. He had wanted to offer to pay for her body to be properly treated, but they did not yet understand why their daughter had taken her own life, and him doing so would alert them, no, this was not his mess to clean up. But, of course, she had to murder the daughter of a noble house of a foreign nation.. during a time in which a meeting was being called to put aside old hatreds to face a common enemy, it was as if the princess was purposely trying to sabotage relations before they even began. If it had been one of their own people, it would have been far easier to cover up and conceal the damage, it was... difficult to do so now, but not impossible, but the princess was old enough to face her consequences, and by all the Gods, she would do so.

Arkos tapped his finger upon his desk, the metallic gauntlet echoing throughout the study as it clashed with the dark walnut as he waited. He had sent a royal invitation to the Vinceia family, they had the honor of a royal audience with the princess, something said princess was not yet aware of. How he proceeded all depending on how she handled it and.. her reaction. If he did not believe she could be saved, he wouldn't. He loved her, truly did, not as much as Bellatrix, perhaps, but he had doted on her as a child even if he never let her know that, leaving her gifts and small trinkets in places she would stumble upon them. Protecting her from afar from dangers she would nearly stumble into, occasionally he would walk by to stop her from tripping or doing something dangerous 'just on time'. But, she was older now. She could not be coddled, and if she could not be saved, if she could not be salvaged... then she was already too far gone and she could not be allowed to rule and a prominent noble should, in his opinion, be named heir apparent. If she could... perhaps they would take a tour of her future kingdom, let her see the people as they are. Force her to work the fields, see the world as it truly is through the eyes of a normal being instead of in the lap of luxury where the problems of the world were far away and the only struggles were those she read about in novels about the lives of others. Arkos' thoughts were interrupted by a servant who paused only to bow and avoid eye socket contact, "The Princess is yelling for you, I assume the young mistress desires your presence in the throne room. Also the guest have arrived," the servant said being sure to stress the word 'guest' enough to let Arkos know his thoughts on their foreign visitors.

Arkos gave a single nod, "Have our guest await us outside of the throne room, I shall be there shortly, and I shall summon them in for their audience when we are ready," the servant bowed to leave but Arkos held up his hand, stalling him, "Treat them with respect," and with that final order, Arkos waved the servant off with a flick of his wrist.

Arkos passed by the family, their dirty, patched clothes showing their mental state, not bothering with even the simple actions of changing and personal hygiene, but it was not what drew his.. attention, it was how shallow and broken they appeared. The son, boy must be no more then seven, kept trying to make sense of what happened, the mother, little more then skins and bones, had the look of a woman who had all but given up on the world, and the father... Arkos wasn't sure what he was looking at... or if he truly knew what was going on anymore. He did not know their pain, and he would never attempt to, so as he passed them he gave them a single nod and held up his hand for them to wait as he pushed open the doors to the throne room. He paused to glance at the guards around the room, in the old days, he would have asked them to leave for this, as the windows and doors were warded against prying eyes and checked the dark reaches of this hall for pesky animals since sorcerers seemed to enjoy using them as their eyes and ears these days, a new annoyance to deal with, but... not this time. This was not his mess to clean up, Arkos approached the princess.

"What you need of me will need to wait for the time being, my princess," Arkos said, his frayed cape rustling against his rusting armor as he approached her, his old boots a stark contrast from the beautiful obsidian floor below him, "You have people that require an audience with their Crown Princess, here on my invitation." ​

Arkos gave a slight bow and motioned to the large thrown at the end of the hall, "If you would please take your seat, I shall order them in and begin introductions."

The Fluffiest Floof
KhalZhavvorsa

 

[August]

Diana Winry Faria​

The ship had sailed through the ocean much quicker than anyone (except maybe Minos) would have expected it to. When Diana had picked her sailors, she didn't think to much of it and picked one that was considered the best. What she didn't really account for was that the sailor would take his son and let him take control of the ship as some sort of training. The sleek sailboat practically skipped over the water, bringing Mesalini a lot closer than it would have been at a normal pace.

Minos was no help in the matter, as he was currently holding on from the front enjoying himself . . . Although with his expression, it made it hard to tell he was excited, but Diana had a little cheat sheet to go off of whenever it came to figuring out how Minos was feeling about something. Since it wasn't often Minos had so 'openly' had some fun out of the castle, the queen merely held on for dear life much like the others for a few minutes. It wasn't until they were dangerously close to the port did order the father to take control and park the ship before the son killed them all at the ports.

The father immediately went to business, seizing control, slowing the vessel down at a steady pace. Not enough, and they were at the ports now. Everyone but Minos had looked away in some way expecting a crash only for the man to turn the ship to avoid the port but he did manage to create a bit of splash of water in doing so.

They had arrived, sort of. The sailor directed their ship over to the port to dock their small sailboat with the other boats that were larger in comparison to theirs.

Diana sighed in relief that they had made it knowing they would have started without her since she had skipped so many in the past. Or maybe this time was different . . .

"Come along Minos, no more playing around." She had spoken out loud this time as she steadied herself before getting off the boat then preceded to assist her linklin off. Scanning the ports she could see many of them had already arrived and were greeting each other like old friends. If the situation wasn't as serious as it was, she would be in her lab working.

KhalZhavvorsa , The Fluffiest Floof , Gabe

 

[The Fluffiest Floof]

Chouette Sova & Amakin II. Carivar​

Chouette was having more than just a hard time holding back many, many comments. But she didn´t. Not yet. She kept sipping her tea and minded her own buisness, eventually petting a few owls.

That was until Amakin landed in his very own way. She just remembered some interesting details about Ragnavar and people from it. Yellow eyes appeared beneath the hood. "Oh well... If that isn´t Amakin of Ragnavar! Guess what, i wanted to talk just to you!", she said, a chuckle interrupting her. "It´s about that... Maria Vinceia, that was on vacation with her family. The name Vinceia surely rings a bell, nobles from Ragnavar. Well Maria was a kid of theirs."
Amakin himself looked at the owl, his helmet hiding all mimic and his inability to speak making him able to do not much more than stare. 'I´m glad to see you too, Bellatrix. And as i see you brought your pet owl as well...' Chouette could of course not hear that. "Now, you see... The woman is dead... Committed suicide, the poor little thing. Driven insane by... Well by the crown princess Lucilla, with her weird little games. You know her, you know how she can be... But after all, the family was poor and... Well... It´s sad, but no reason to be mad at each other right? No harm done, in the end. Except for a little selfharm... Deadly... self harm..." Chouette cleared her throat, took a sip and then spotted somebody else. "Excuse me." Without waiting for an answer, Chouette took off, towards teh newest arrivals in at the docks. Queen Diana.

Amakin looked after the owls, as he looked at Bellatrix, then Galandor. He nodded towards the king, then looking at Bellatrix. A deep grumble, that sounded menacing, came from underneath the helmet. 'Bellatrix, would you greet him from me and explain, why i must speak through you? I would be more than grateful.' The fire king took a place next to the lich, towering over her with his incerdible height.

Meanwhile, Chouette had reached her destination, landing exactly next to the queen. Owls landed around Chouette, some of them white as snow. Maybe Diana or Minos even spotted an owl they knew. "Queen Diana... of Prosfaria. Yes. And Minos, the... You call it linkling, right? Some call them slaves, but that´s only in certain areas... I heard... those area´s aren´t quite liked by you... Now... What if i´d know somebody who could help you with finding them?..." She chuckled, the yellow eyes appearing, then disappearing underneath the hood. "Don´t bother Asking who i am. You´ll eventually figure out."

Lucilla Vincetia​

The princess was walking back and forward in the throne room, waiting for Arkos. She wanted to act. Show responsiblity. SHow everyone she WAS able to be a queen one day. And she needed Arkos for that. She didn´t like that fact, but she accepted it.

Soon, the man she had called for came to her. He informed her people wanted to speak to her. How weird. But talking to whoever wanted to was one of the parts of being a queen. And for now, that was what Lucilla would try to come close to. She nodded, sitting down. "Let them in. I´ll see what they want and waht i can do." She smiled at Arkos. "I can do this. I´ll show you."

While the princess at on the throne, an owl landed on the window, looking inside curiously. Then another. And another.

 

[doodleSM]

Teoxicoehua​

The Karsaur, Teox, was wandering the docks of Mesalin shortly after his arrival. Teox, in paranoia, told the crew to stay on board and to leave him be in the city. Teox enjoyed the warmth from the sun and the heat that came was much appreciated. His blissful joy of warmth was ruined when he sees the other rulers of the world powers. He makes a slight hiss at the larger ships, and he sees the other world powers, in their fancy and noble like clothing. Teox looked at his ornamental Karsaur armor, then back at the few talking.

He knew that his Philosophy would help him on this course. Teox sees the larger ship, much larger and elegant then the Karsaur ship he had came in. "This is one large ship." Blunt, and straight to the point, Teox was. His lizard lisp was apparent too, the S sound being dragged out.

"This island reminds me of Xochipilli, my homeland. Though the jungles there are much more hostile than this island, it's still good to be in similar lands." He wasn't talking to anyone in particular, but to those who did in fact see him.

Karsaurs are tad bit on the feral side, and those who are lucky enough to comprehend complicated tasks such as talking require great brain power to overcome their primal and primeval tendencies. Teox was a lucky few. But still, the affects of hallucinating on herbs and other remedies in order to speak to a celestial god that might not even exist, was having its toll on Teox.

 

[DeathValley105]

The ocean breeze filled the large red and black sails as the armada of Thalien sailed forward to The Kingdom of Mesalin. The hulls creaked and sailors shouted orders, knocking on the captains quarters the first mate would wait for his king to answer.
"Come in." The rough voice said looking up from the desk where a map of Thalien and board species were set, another war was expected soon between the large cult groups and demons fighting against the kingdoms and positioning of the armies were already being under way. "M'lord we are nearing the port of Mesalin, shall we prepare for landing?" "Yes, tell King Leon III to prepare a small party to come on shoot with us, no more than 150 men in total for the two of us." "Of course m'lord i'll get to it right away." The captain said before contacting the captain of the sister ship of King Fenrir's orders. Animal Humanoids and Humans were preparing chests for gifts and fixing there armor and weapons. One can only be to prepared for when a possible battle will take place, especially sense it looked like a small invasion fleet. Both ships now in single file line started to dock with sailors and captains yelling orders and securing the cargo and gifts, slowing down the warships until they fully stopped several sailors put down the boards that would let the leaders to walk down, coming from there own ship King Leon III, High General Tiagra, and the high wizard of the magical orders within Thalien awaited him on the docks, greeting them from the long journey Fenrir looked around and saw that nearly all the other world leaders had arrived before him. Was i the last one to arrive? What a shame, hopefully i didn't miss the introductions. He mused before walking forward the three following close behind, he easily spotted the leaders with there presence of authority and how elegant they dressed or the armor they wore. Walking forward he would greet the leaders "Greetings, i am King Fenrir Bloodyhammer of the Kingdom of Thalien, these are King Leon III, High General Tiagra, and High Wizard Gorsef. Who may you be?" He said his voice as rough as gravel scraping against stone Gabe The Fluffiest Floof KhalZhavvorsa OrenjiGatsu