Fantasy CLOSED The Saga of the Ryujin

The Outskirts of Othos
​

It would only take a few hours or so before they arrived at their destination. The wonders of being able to fly upon a dragon's back greatly aiding their time to travel. If they had walked on foot as they had planned it would have likely taken a few weeks to transverse through the mountains. As they flew the mountains slowly faded, the air becoming warmer, the sight of grey and white below them disappearing to give way to brushstrokes of green and brown.

​

After they landed Esenma would quickly transform back into her elven form, exhausted from the use of her elder form. Zalzabar was quick to support her, summoning a bedroll as he gently set her down. He would also set places for Anaxagore, Kaynus, and Dominus. Kaynus appeared to be mostly healed by this point with Anaxagore not far behind him, both would still exhaustion of the fight drag on their souls.

Once this was done Zalzabar found a place for him to sit, he even contemplated sleeping, something he only ever did when he was truly spent. He did not however, merely observing the others as the either settled down, tended to the wounded, or set up camp in some way. Zalzabar merely just sat there, thinking.

After about an hour they would feel a crackle, an electric sensation burn itself into the lush grass. Red lightning descending from the heavens as a woman stepped out. Around her red lightning continued to crackle as it then came to a whimper then disappeared entirely.

Spoiler

"It would seem father was right, you were very easy to find,"

​

The woman had a sword by her side although it was sheathed. Zalzabar looked up in horror, his eyes appearing as though they were about to pop out of his skull. This was the absolute worse time for the Crimson Knights to find them. If any of them made a movement toward her or even if they did not she would raise a hand up passively as if telling them to relax.

"I am not here to kill you, settle down. Allow me to introduce myself. I am Bellus Dragonson, daughter of Malum Dragonson, heir to the Haugunite Throne and Commander of the Crimson Knights,"

She gave a sly smile, her aura was completely hidden to them, they quite simply had no idea how large her aura was or exactly how powerful she was. All they could tell was the skill for lightning teleportation had brought Zalzabar to his knees a few hours ago and here she was doing it without breaking a sweat.

"I simply want to talk, surely you can grant me that?"

TAG: @The Jedi in the Pumas @Darth_Elu @Mitth_Fisto @galactic-vagabond422 @greyjedi125 @Ktala

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OOC: A combo with @The Jedi in the Pumas. As always great stuff my friend.

IC: Derius and Elizabeth

Goredom, Underneath the City of Carldom, Taetus
​

The Shade responsible for maintaining the sphere dropped a bead of sweat from behind his mask. The experiments had persisted for days now. Most of the Shades continued to move throughout Goredom; It was their place of study, rituals, and research. The summoning of Knight-Guardian Dessa and the Iron Guard meant that Derius had taken Ulfric Mordenheim's infiltration seriously. Taetian secrets, the ones that remained hidden and scattered throughout the Northern Realm, must be defended with more vigor and thoroughness. Dessa understood this more than she understood the darkness of her King's experimentation. The ongoing suffering of Elizabeth was on full display as Dessa descended the steps. Her King, the Witchking Derius, sat cross-legged in the sphere, in front of Elizabeth, Zalarin, and the elemental Count Liud.

Knight-Guardian, Leader of the Iron Guard, Dessa Timult​

Dessa knelt with her fingers in the dirt and remained silent until her King acknowledged her. She had vowed her life to him decades ago. He was the one that saved her from a life of savagery. Her heritage descended from the tribes of Eastern Taetus, a large collection of tribes that fought against and defeated Derius' father when he tried to unite all of Taetus under one rule. When the King passed away, Derius and Nezzarellium conquered the Northern Realm. Eastern Taetus was the last territory that Derius conquered and during the final battle, as Nezzarellium, the Iron Guard, and Derius' army of undead ripped Eastern Taetus to shreds, it was Derius himself who emerged from the Dark Fog to pick Dessa and her siblings out from the chaos. He saw something unique in her, even as a child, and saved her, raising her as his ward. She was trained by the Iron Guard, studied tactics under Derius, and eventually rose to lead the Iron Guard, the elite knights that protected the King and the Northern Realm's most important locations.

She owed him everything.

Elizabeth's body hovered in the center of the dome, wrapped in the embrace of the Count Ilud and surrounded by tendrils of Smoke emanating from Derius' mouth. It had taken days before Zalarin suggested that Derius pinpoint his smoke tendrils to Elizabeth's heart and brain, connecting his aura to her's in the most direct way possible. By doing this, Derius was manipulating Elizabeth's aura at will, but it required an intense focus. He was getting better at it, quickly. When Derius commanded it, her aura would pulse and her heart would beat faster, covering her body in the scales of ryujin form. When she was conscious, he was even able to strongly suggest, through the brain connection, for her to transform into her adept form. He believed that the next step would be to force her to enter her Elder form with a mental command by forcing her heart to beat faster and activating her ryujin blood. Unfortunately, the young ryujin was not strong enough to maintain consciousness as the intense pain overwhelmed her senses. Zalarin was researching a potion that would numb her completely; he would return shortly with a concoction that they could try.

The Witchking stood and exhaled harshly. He dusted his hands off on his robes and directly the Count Ilud to keep Elizabeth unconscious and continue draining her aura. The Count happily complied; he was storing all of this ryujin aura for a later time. Derius turned to Dessa and exited the magic sphere.

"Speak, Dessa."

The woman rose to her feet and planted her claymore in the stone.

"My King. The Iron Guard has activated the reserves and tripled security of Goredom. We will not let another infiltration go unpunished."

The Witchking rubbed a hand through his wet hair, slicking it back as he drank a potion from a skin on his hip. "Yes, the infiltration. Ulfric Mordenheim. He alluded to having spies in Taetus. The hellhounds have picked up various scents of mixed loyalties. I have not commanded them to execute them yet."

"Why not, my King?" Dessa asked, slightly annoyed that she was finding out this news now.

"Because until my Hellhounds and the Chosen that wander Haugun have discovered Malum's daughter, I will allow the spies to continue to try to discover our secrets. It is not the fault of Haugun for sending spies to uncover information; It is our fault if we do not control what information they uncover."

His logic was sound and Dessa silently agreed. He could tell even in her stone countenance that she had more to say.

"Speak, Dessa."

"I do not think that you should go alone to Haugun to meet their King. He has disrespected you not once, but twice. What kind of King sends a familiar to receive another? Then he sends Ulfric Mordenheim to trespass on our lands."

"You wish to punish him? Ulfric Mordenheim?"

"All of Haugun. But Ulfric Mordenheim, specifically yes, my King." Dessa would not tolerate offenses to her King. She had slain ryujin before, orcs, powerful warriors, mages. She was ready to give her life to bring Haugun to ruin. Derius found the loyalty worthy and without equal across Regnum. Dessa did not know his full plans, though the fall of Haugun was certainly a part of his larger aim.

"Patience, Knight-Guardian. I will not go to Haugun alone. The Sea Serpent and I will travel there together. Malum has no intentions of cutting our alliance short before he captures Zalzabar and Athas." Derius looked back at Elizabeth and stayed silent. He thought of something and raised a hand, smoke billowing out from it and encircled the dome, filling it with his aura. He connected to Elizabeth's heart and brain immediately. He shocked her awake, though her screams were muffled by the smoke. He used her anger and fear and torment to trigger her adept transformation.

No...Something more.

Her fear and anger. They were the base emotions. Primal. It was well-known that Newborn Ryujins used these to awaken their form at the beginning. Elders, like his mother, Zalzabar, and Malum; There was something more. Something that drove them to push themselves to a higher level. It was Dessa that triggered this thought; her loyalty. Elizabeth could only fear for her life so much, but Derius gave her the truth, his truth, in his aura as it infiltrated her brain. He was not going to kill her; He was going to destroy everything. Bring utter ruin to Haugun. He let Elizabeth feel a small portion of his true, sinister aura. The unforgiving resolve which pushed him to his own higher level. The motivation that had propelled him to awaken his own transformation from Derius Ralinommu to the Witchking of the North Realm.

Few knew why he was called that. The myths were that it was simply because of his power and his abilities and his dark nature. No...It was something more.

​

Control the information they receive.

The Witchking aura awoke and all of Goredom stopped around Elizabeth. Dessa had felt this before and it made her kneel down, not out of undying loyalty, but out of instinctual submission to a power greater than oneself. All of the Shades stopped as well, except Zalarin who fed the potion to Elizabeth. Elizabeth would hear a voice in her own mind that belonged to no individual she had ever heard before.

"tO DeFeNd YoUr KiNg WHaT wOUlD yOu saCRIfice?"

The answer was quick: Elizabeth would give everything.

And the Witchking would taketh. All secrets, all happiness, all love, all despair, all hope. The Witchking would use all of it to make her transform to her limits. Elizabeth would know, at the suggestion of the Witchking, that the only way she could protect Malum from this evil entity was to exceed her previous limits. She had to. She must.

And she would because the Witchking commanded her to do so.

The overwhelming sensations that overcame Elizabeth were intense. The sheer amount of pain that had been afflicted upon her would have driven others mad, but not her. She was Elizabeth the Fire Witch, one of the Crimson Knights, she was part of the greatest military ever to exist. The pride of the ryujin, she was supposed to aid in the coming of Sapientis, the almighty King above all, but here she was her body felt like it was in tatters, her body a vessel for experimentation, trying to understand the secret of the elder form.

But it was not the physical or mental pain that was worst of all. It was the feeling of abandonment that rung throughout her, the words spoken by Ulfric Mordenheim like daggers through her heart.

"This pathetic creature is no longer of use to King Malum..."

She was useless, a lost lamb that had come from nothing in Haugun, raised to believe in nothing but the supremacy of ryujin and now here she was, rejected by her own King, but she still held on, the denial in her mind the only shred of a lifeline she had remaining. And then it hit her, the sheer force of will that was the Witch King, his commanding will like a crushing wave, tears ran down her face. She was alone and forgotten she had nothing, and it was in this moment where she felt like utter dirt, with the rush of emotions that Derius rushed through her that something awakened within.

It was as if a wave of energy exploded off her, intense heat billowing off her as a draconic form materialized into existence. Derius would know the sense of this aura, it was the same as his mother's and that of Zalzabar when they fought oh so long ago. Her form continued to grow the sheer power of her unlocked elder form destroyed all the magical restraints that Derius had in place, her form continuing to grow filling the space. Easily three times the size of an adept the gigantic creature looked down at Derius the anger in the creature's face clear.

Spoiler

​

​

A hot beam of intense fire leaped itself from the dragon's maw aimed directly for the Witch King. Elizabeth was now the strongest she had ever been in her lifetime, the blessing of Three, or as she believed of Sapientis, rushing through body empowering to new heights.

But Derius had fought Elders before, and ones far more powerful than the one that did not know how to control their Elder Form.

The Shades quickly scurried out of the dark cave as Elizabeth's Elder Form grew, all except Zalarin and the sphere Shade who watched as his construct was destroyed by the explosion of aura from Elizabeth. The Sphere Shade leaped backwards to avoid the heat and started to prepare a larger, stronger negation zone that would dampen the ryujin's power. Zalarin, not nearly as alarmed, raised a butcher's knife to stop the Sphere Shade. Zalarin knew that the Witchking did not wish for Elizabeth to be tamed; The experiment was entering its second stage: to see how sustainable this forced Elder Form was.

Dessa moved to intercept the beam on her King's behalf as a dark cloud of Vol Brum appeared in front of Derius, summoned from his hand. The beam connected with the cloud and only made a muffled sound as it was extinguished by the smoke. Derius' aura returned to normal, Dessa noted, as the King stepped forward, raising both hands towards Elizabeth and summoning eight clouds of Vol Brum to surround the ryujin.

"Lady Elizabeth," He called. He was going to ask her if she understood his words, but decided there was a better way to ascertain her cognizance. "You just received a fraction of my intentions. Enough, however, that you know what will happen if you do not kill me here. Your Kingdom, your brothers and sisters, and Malum Dragonson will know ruin by mine own hand. Unless you stop me."

Dessa's eyes grew wide. What was her King doing? Provoking an Elder, an uncontrollable Elder at that. What could this prove? What could this achieve? She drew her massive claymore and stood behind him, ready to attack the ryujin when she heard the approaching sound of one of the Witchking's Chosen descending the stairs to the cavern. The Chosen...She had yet to see one in battle and everytime one of them were near the air itself seem to brace for the worse.​

The Chosen, an overgrown hellhound the size of two men, sat calmly at the opening of the cavern. It did not move to attack or intervene and Dessa quickly deduced its purpose here: To ensure that Elizabeth, Elder or not, did not escape unless King Derius willed it so.

Elizabeth scanned the area and roared in frustration. Her anger causing the fire around her to explode off her in thick, hot tendrils that whipped all around her. She turned her head to the ceiling, opening her maw once more as she let out a torrent of flame toward it, her hot beam of fire melting through the rock, attempting to carve a tunnel out. She had no idea how deep underground she was, but it was better than nothing.

As she did this she whipped her tail in frustration, smacking the ground with a hard thud as several large walls of fire exploded off her. One aimed for Dessa, the other for Derius, and the final one for the Chosen. The fire was hot and intense, the fire of an elder. It was not something you wanted to be close to, let alone set ablaze by.

“Vol Brum: Dakke Ruum.”

The entire cavern immediately was covered in a thick smog. Below Dessa, she lost the feeling of the rocky bottom and felt as if she was standing on nothing. No, not nothing. She felt like she was standing on clouds; it felt soft and light, but if she stayed in one place too long she would sink. The Sphere Shade backed away from Elizabeth into the smoke along the walls until he was absorbed and gone. Zalarin stood stoically, his butcher knives still in his hands.

The wall of fire that crashed into the Chosen burned the fur and skin off the creature so that only its skeleton and seared organs remained. It had made no move to dodge the attack or defend itself for there was no need. Pain and death meant nothing to those in service to the Witchking. The Chosen would heal its own injuries when the time came. For now, it remained guarding the stairway.

Derius blocked the walls of fire directed at Dessa and himself with a barrier of smoke risen from the ground. Derius cleared the path and watched as Elizabeth’s beam of fire breath continued to bask the ceiling in a fiery blaze. Except, it was no longer. The beam was shooting into the vol brum that now outlined the entire room and was absorbing her beam in a muffled roar. The Vol Brum dripped from the ceiling, rolled over the walls, and squirmed along the floor. They were all within Derius’ dominion.

Thick drops of smoke rained down on Elizabeth’s ryujin body and began to weigh the Elder form down. The eight clouds Derius summoned released smoke large hands that matched Elizabeth’s elder form and grabbed the ryujin to hold her in place, all the while releasing and spreading Derius’ smoke over her body.

Derius directed his arms, controlling the clouds with his wicked practiced choreography. He inhaled and exhaled quickly and Dessa could feel the air in the room becoming thin and harder to breathe. When it came to protecting Carldom, Derius would not allow Elizabeth to grow out of control, no matter how curious he was to her power. She would learn to control it or he would kill and dissect her and control it himself.

The oxygen continued to thin in the room and the Elder’s fire would burn through the rest. Either the dragon would suffocate its own fire or the Vol Brum would weigh it down until it couldn’t move.

Elizabeth could feel the fire begin to dim around her, the lack of oxygen beginning to get to her. This magic of Derius' was as if it was built to counter her, no it was built to counter ryujin. She closed her maw, turning to face the Witchking, the thick smog weighing her body and wings down.

As she did the fire that was much of her form went out, the red dragon underneath revealed. This was a move out of desperation. Even despite Vol Brum weighing her down, she began to charge toward Derius her wings flapping to push the smoke out of her way, not that it would do much good. It would only take a few moments for the enormous dragon to be upon Derius, taking a swipe with her claw towards the mage, it was easily three or four times his size as the armored hand came smashing down to crush him.

The claw was stopped, a foot away from the King. The Sphere Shade emerged beside Dessa, who was standing behind Derius with her claymore raised to block the massive claw. Instead, due to the magical barrier that had be erected, Dessa instead turned her claymore to use offensively and swung the mighty weapon high above them before slicing down on Elizabeth’s claw, cutting through the ryujin armor and cleaving the claw off.

It fell to the floor before Derius as he watched Elizabeth roar in pain. The experiments from earlier had damaged her beyond repair. Vol Brum would always be more effective on her due to Zalarin and Derius’ experiments and her captivity within the Count Ilud. She really was of no further use to Malum Dragonson, at least not against Derius.

His ethereal smoke connection to her heart and brain allowed him to slow her heart down and monitor her brain activity as the smoke waves washed over her body. He could feel it now but it would still require more testing. Zalarin approached, stepping over the quiet Elizabeth.

He noted in his old tongue that Elizabeth’s aura was significantly decreasing as her transformation lost strength. Permanent damage had been done to her body and the forced transformation seemed to have damaged her aura further.

“Indeed. She was able to understand her circumstances and possibly even my words. Though she was unable to control her power. Her aura and ryujin blood was responding to her most basic thoughts of escape and protection and acted without her control.”

Vol Brum disappeared into the cracks of the cave and the clouds dispersed so that all was as it had been a few moments earlier. Dessa returned her sword’s tip to its prone position at her feet, though remained ready in case the ryujin attacked again. King Derius had seemed tired when she first entered the cavern yet he was still able to battle an elder ryujin with little effort. This was why he was the one to unite the Northern Realm. She fully believed he would be the one to revive The Old God, Sapientis, and that they would conquer all of Regnum.

Derius scratched his arm and looked down at his bare feet.

As the claw came off, Derius would observe that it would begin to rebuild itself anew almost instantly, growing from inside the stump that was her claw. But she relented, if dragons could sweat she would be covered in it, the exhaustion overwhelmed her, she had not trained to maintain this form, keeping it up did irreparable to her aura.

Slowly, and with much loud grunting her form began to shrink, along with the size of her aura dimming. Slowly she shifted back to her normal ryujin form and then back to that of a human. Her body drenched in sweat. She stammered as she could barely stand. Regardless of how long she had been able to keep up the form, Derius had accomplished what Ulfric had requested of him.

The former Crimson Knight, with a dazed and confused expression, looked toward the Witchking. Her face like that of a ghost in both expression and complexion. The smoke tendrils that connected Derius to her heart and brain still wafting through the air as she stammered a final line.

"I... I... they abandoned me..."

Derius had no mercy for those that pitied themselves. There was too much this world had to offer for one to complain about their circumstances. Yet, there was something in what Elizabeth said that pulled at his mind.

“Yes, they did. Because, as you learned long ago, values, morality, purpose... are all extensions so long as a King believes in them. When he does not, they are worthless words.”

“Tell me about Malum’s daughter.”

Elizabeth froze, she was now on her knees, still panting, trying to regain her breathe. With pained eyes, she looked to Derius, the desperation in them all too real. Not that she suspected he would care.

"She is the greatest of Crimson Knights, second only to The Winter Court and Malum himself. She takes after her father, her nature is that of lightning. She... she can now teleport herself at will... in the manner, I believe you desire... instantly,"

She grew quiet her eyes cast down at the floor, the exhaustion overwhelming.

“Clever.”

A pause.

“Where do you want to go, Elizabeth? Back to Malum I suppose?”

Her head turned up slowly, not looking at Derius but enough to acknowledge what he was saying.

"I...I... don't know anymore... they would probably... k...kill me..."

It pained her greatly to admit it, but in her heart, she knew it to be the truth, the words of Ulfric Mordenheim still burned into her memory.

“I see.”

Derius turned away. The Sphere Shade reestablished a sphere around Elizabeth and Zalarin went back to experimenting with pieces of Elizabeth’s body he’d sliced off.

“Sleep.” The smoke tie to Elizabeth’s heart slowed down and the one to her brain sent the woman into a deep, deep sleep.

“What next, my lord?” Dessa asked.

“I will rest. Then I will rendezvous with the Sea Serpent and Southern Hunters. I have a meeting with Malum Dragonson to attend.”

TAG: No One...​

​

 

Delsanra Taenya Helestina
The Journey continues


After a few quiet words from Creatus, Delsanra gently lends down her wing, so that they would have an easier time of climbing on. Once she was sure he was securely on, along with anyone else who was going with her. It would only take a few hours or so before they arrived at their destination. The wonders of being able to fly upon a dragon's back greatly aiding their time to travel. Delsanra was enjoying the view. And flying in dragon form was definitely helping with her own healing. It would have taken much longer to reach the city. Soon, the lovely white of snow, changed to brown and green.

Once they drew near, Esenma changed, to her elven form, as did Delsanra. Zalzabar was quick to support her, summoning a bedroll as he gently set her down. He would also set places for Anaxagore, Kaynus, and Dominus. Anaxagore and Dominus seemed much better now. Delsanra was tired but she was not about to sleep. Not until they reached a city. But this time, she could possibly make something to eat. As she contemplated on that thought, she suddenly felt something. It was like the static electricity of a storm, a crackle of....

As Delsanra turned to look at Zalzabar, red lightning descending from the heavens as a woman stepped out. Around her red lightning continued to crackle as it then came to a whimper then disappeared entirely.

"It would seem father was right, you were very easy to find,"

A CRIMSON KNIGHT!! NOW?! Delsanra frowned. It had to be. Easy to find.... Delsanra felet like groaning. She knew the meaning of the woman's words. And looking over at Zanzabar, his reaction confirmed her fears.

The woman raises a hand up passively as if telling them to relax.

"I am not here to kill you, settle down. Allow me to introduce myself. I am Bellus Dragonson, daughter of Malum Dragonson, heir to the Haugunite Throne and Commander of the Crimson Knights," She gave a sly smile. Delsanra crossed her hands in front of her.

"I simply want to talk, surely you can grant me that?"

Delsanra was willing to listen to anyone who was not actively trying to kill them. But of course, it was not up to them. She simply kept her eye on Zalzabar, while she waited to hear why the woman was there.

So much for resting.




TAG: @The Jedi in the Pumas @Darth_Elu @Mitth_Fisto @galactic-vagabond422 @greyjedi125 @Shadowsun

 

Rebecca Dragon

It was an anti-climax death was staring her in the face. She was ready to fight it, ready to die against it. Then it just faded away and turned into sludge. With a scream that could pierce the heavens. She fell to her knees, blood boiling. Her blade dripped with goblin blood yet she was still not satisfied. There wasn't a final kill, a final moment of catharsis. All she had was this need to calm, to fight against the fire burning in her blood. Her breath turned to steam in the cold air as she gathered up the unconscious body of 'His Highness'. Throwing the body over the back of her dragon mount she sat and fumed. The thought occurred to her, just kill the body in front of her satisfy the blood in her veins. No one would care everyone hated him, he was a jumped up useless lordling.

Her gauntleted hands moved close to his throat the thought being screamed into her mind.

"SNUFF THE LIFE FROM HIM. WATCH THE LIGHT FADE FROM HIS EYES."

She wanted to kill him, kill something, her blood was hurting her, but she had to fight, fight with all her will against it. She was sworn to this group, they were her allies, she couldn't kill them no matter how much she wanted to.

She kept her steely gaze on the horizon that never seemed to move closer though it would change throughout their flight. A jagged white capped vista turning to rolling hills, and wavy grass.

As they came in for a landing she plucked Kayuns off the dragon and laid him out on one of the summoned bedrolls. Her gaze swept over the plains looking for something large, something living, something to kill.

That was when lightning stuck from the sky leaving a woman in it's wake. Instantly Rebecca's blade was drawn a blood crazed look in her eyes. Every fiber of her being was telling her to attack, to rend this woman limb from limb, to see just how powerful she was.

Then all she wanted to do was talk, talking didn't solve anything, it wouldn't fix the fire in her veins. This was their enemy, surely she could kill this one, surely?

For now she held back looking to the others, though they could see the eagerness in her eyes, the need to kill.

And her resolve was weakening.

TAG: @The Jedi in the Pumas @Darth_Elu @Mitth_Fisto @Ktala @greyjedi125 @Shadowsun

 

Cretaus IC:
~Wondering What NOW!?~

Cretaus had enjoyed a dreamless sleep on dragon-back as they sailed through the Mountains of Athas. He slowly sat up, rousing himself back into wakefulness just as they were beginning to descend. Looking about himself, his hands tightening on Delsanra’s scales once he realized where he was, he observed the difference in the terrain.

Much more inviting and not even close to as cold as it was before. He vaguely recalled the area when he had passed through before, on his trek toward Zalzabar’s Castle. Of course at that time he had only briefly passed through a couple of small villages, otherwise avoiding any major settlements.

Upon landing, he slid off the back of the great dragon before she transformed into her lovely elven form (he tried not to blush, only partially succeeding), and winced as Rebecca handled the unconscious form of Kaynus rather roughly. He might have said something if not for a wild look in her eyes.

Probably best he just kept his trap shut for now.

During that first hour or so after touch down, he helped in any way of pitching camp. Some of them still hadn’t fully recovered, so travel was clearly done for the time being. And when the air seemed to crackle with energy all of a sudden, he blinked and turned around to watch the red lightning descend with a puzzled, slow expression on his face.

The appearance of the woman was a huge shock! Her appearance, the manner of arrival, the expression now on Zalzabar’s face, and…

“It would seem father was right, you were very easy to find.”

That wording being as foreboding as it was did not help matters in regards to trust! Fumbling for his sword, he managed to pull it out as quickly as he could and jumped to stand in front of the forms of Dominus, Anaxagore, and Kaynus.

With a quick glance toward Taella who was hopefully nearby, he’d offer a nod that quietly said he was ready to assist in fighting this new enemy…no matter how outclassed he was. With three members of the group down, no…four due to Zalzabar’s exhaustion…every available fighter was invaluable. Even he knew that!

“I am not here to kill you, settle down. Allow me to introduce myself. I am Bellus Dragonson, daughter of Malum Dragonson, heir to the Haugunite Throne and Commander of the Crimson Knights.”

His eyes briefly travelled over to Zalzabar as well as taking in the others’ reactions too. Why was someone so important among their enemy here?

“I simply want to talk, surely you can grant me that?”

Suspicious if you asked him.

Calling out from where he stood, defiant of her authority and power, he eyed her firmly. “Can you prove that? Just because your sword is sheathed means nothing since you obviously have magic!”

A little bold on his part given that he was the minuscule weakling of the party, but something needed to be said he felt.

Tag: Delsanra, Rebecca, Esenma, Zalzabar, Taella, Ne’tar, Kaynus, Anaxagore, Dominus, & Bellus

@Ktala @galactic-vagabond422 @The Jedi in the Pumas @Shadowsun @Mitth_Fisto @greyjedi125 | For Narrative Purposes: @Kurisan @Master Vo'Un'Var

 

IC: Ne'tar
Landing to be ambushed.

Ne'tar do what Ne'tar could, chant a little. Will others to be better as Ne'tar feel world blurry at edges. Ne'tar know this feeling well. Ne'tar name it Steve. Heh. Ne'tar no call it that! Not since little, but that come to Ne'tar mind now. Thoughts of Little Ne'tar. Ne'tar no be little long while now.

Ne'tar glad when land, Ne'tar want nothing more trudge into tree line and Ne'tar sleep. Others start talk, as Ne'tar stumble, then Ne'tar see red flash. New one here, Red not Ne'tar or group color. Hand on hilt Ne'tar thumb bump sword forward slighly as Lady talk. Say no fight. Ne'tar fine with that.

Ne'tar shrug, Ne'tar look but no see good tree or boulder to lean on, Ne'tar sit on ground then. "Ne'tar saw flash. Ask talk silly waste surprise attack. Ne'tar listen." Waving about with one hand at the others Ne'tar sigh, heavy, "Others stay paranoid. Ne'tar too tired for it."

TAG: @Ktala @galactic-vagabond422 @The Jedi in the Pumas @Shadowsun @Darth_Elu , @greyjedi125 | For Narrative Purposes: @Kurisan @Master Vo'Un'Var

 

Esenma
-Outskirts of Othos

The Skydragon was barely conscious. The strain of her transformation only apparent once she returned to her elven form. It felt like her body was being weighed down by boulders and worse, her mind was sluggish and cloudy.

Bellus Dragonson...Malum's daughter.... They were in danger. But-

Her mind ceased function and Esenma fell into a deep sleep.

-----
Everything was dark. The voice that spoke was someone familiar to her. It brought her peace in her unconscious slumber. As he spoke, she could not respond, but her physical body would relax and take comfort in his words.

"Worry not, mother. You will come to no harm. Come home..."

She could not. She had to ensure the survival of Regnum.

But how could she, in such a weak state.

Tag: @Ktala @Darth_Elu @galactic-vagabond422 @Mitth_Fisto @greyjedi125 @Shadowsun

 

IC: Anaxagore
Outskirts of Othos

He’d been unconscious and dreaming while his body ever so slowly knit itself back together, despite the corporeal affliction he already carried.

Anaxagore kept going in and out of his dream state, hearing things between the conscious and unconscious worlds, his mind likely reinterpreting the different narratives to his understanding. Someone was chanting in a tongue he only half understood, but there was comfort and a balm that accompanied those words.

There was the vague sense of being moved and placed atop something comfortable.

Anaxagore stirred then, surfacing to consciousness now that there seemed to be some of activity. His eyes fluttered open as a he felt , or at least thought he felt, unfamiliar power fading form his perceptions. His eyes opened just in time to see a white haired female with a flowing red cape and commanding demeanor address the beleaguered group.

Was he hearing this right? The Heir to the Haugunite Throne and Commander of the Crimson Knights? She was a Dragonson?

Anaxagore groaned as he rose from his cot with a lurch into a sitting position. His head swam from the effort and he felt dizzy. Had she come to slay them?

The Protector was in terrible condition, his energies were completely depleted, his skin was no longer cracked, but his body was covered with flakes of burnt and dead skin over the new layer. His entire body still ached, but he could not, would not simply lay down like a lamb to the slaughter.

Wait. Did she say she wished to talk? Was this some kind of trick?

“What’s…..what’s…goin…on?” He asked in a hoarse whisper, unable to muster any show of strength in his voice just then.

His bleary eyes glanced towards Zalzabar and Esenma, but they also seemed out of it. Everyone was out it.

Except for Cretaus, by the sound of it.

“Can you prove that? Just because your sword is sheathed means nothing since you obviously have magic!”

He had no idea how he managed it. But Anaxagore forced himself to his feet and groaned with every step as he lumbered towards Cretaus.

“If she wanted us dead, we would be already…” he barely managed to say as he grabbed a hold of the young boy’s arm and guided him away from the woman. Even in his weakened state he wagered he was still stronger than the boy, which meant he had absolutely no chance against her.

“Let her speak….”

With that done, he threw himself back down on his cot and waited for whatever was next, all the while lifting a silent prayer to ‘The Three’ that this not be the way their story ended.


Tag: @Shadowsun, @Darth_Elu, @Ktala, @galactic-vagabond422, @Mitth_Fisto, @The Jedi in the Pumas

 

IC: Bellus Dragonson, Zalzabar, Dominus
Five Miles from Othos

Bellus surveyed them all, taking in the mixture of apprehension, horror, and anger. Zalzabar for his part was not particularly more conscious than Anaxagore by this point, the adrenal that had kept him going all but fading from his system.

He whispered a few words, impossible to hear, but it seemed the normally rambling Elder could not formulate a sentence.

"My goodness look at you all... so weak. Would be so easy..." she looked toward Anaxagore and Cretaus, the pitiful young human making some statement about her having to prove something or other. The weakened adept Ryujin convincing him otherwise.

“If she wanted us dead, we would be already…”

“Let her speak….”

"Ah, a smart one... yes your big brother is quite right... I would kill you all by now if I wanted to," she emphasized the 'big' mockingly regardless of whether the fact was true or not. She then squinted at Cretaus, a look of disgust on her face.

"By the Two, is that how desperate Zalzabar is? Taking up such weak non-Ryujin trash like you?"

She then turned to see Rebecca who was all but foaming at the mouth to kill Bellus.

"What's your problem... oh that energy... that murderous intent, reminds me of dear sweet Roger."

The Crimson Knight began to take a few steps closer to the group, she was perhaps about eight feet away or so, an insufferable smirk planted on her face.

"And a half-orc... how disgusting, although I wonder, what the other half is, certainly not human I would be able to tell. Seems an awfully like..."

She then stopped, eyeing the Dominus who at this point was now standing up, having only just come to, he staggered upward and finger pointed at the Crimson Knight.

"You fought my brothers Fifty Years ago, y-you?"

"So this is the famous Dominus, do you customarily travel without a shirt? Although I never understood you Snow Elves, with all your secrets? Oh, what's this you have another one in your party?"

She gave a head tilt to Delsanra, her eyes flashing with glee.

"You truly are desperate Zalzabar, recruiting the brothers and sisters of Gelida, although I expect you never were told their dirty little secret. Why not Dominus, keeping knowledge away from your oh so precious human master?"

"Why... you!"

He began to charge up to her, four red rods of lightning sprung up from the ground electrocuting the Knight of Illusion, his body dropping to the ground.

"Relax, such thin skin."

She then wiped her nose, thinking for a moment as she brought her hand to her chin.

"Right, right I'm not supposed to kill you. A shame really. Well, it is very simple, a month from now Athas will be invaded and it will fall. It will not take us long to reach the capital, and when we do..."

She looked over their battered faces thinking for another moment.

"You have a month to give up Zalzabar, my father would rather not see him killed, His knowledge and... well I suppose he hasn't told you much about his past has he?"

Red lightning crackled in her hair, a wistful smirk remaining on her face as she continued.

"Sapientis will return, we will get those Dragon-God Artifacts before you, you don't even know where to look...give up Zalzabar and Malum gives his word that he will not raze the city to the ground."

She looked to them all, Zalzabar was in no condition to reply, his face was in shock, his mind had shut down. Why exactly, other than the fact he was exhausted, could not be ascertained by the group. With both their strongest members indisposed it would be up to the others to make a decision.

"Or you could attack me now, see if you can take me on?"

TAG: @Ktala @Darth_Elu @Mitth_Fisto @greyjedi125 @galactic-vagabond422 @The Jedi in the Pumas

 

Cretaus IC:
~Grrrr~

While he stood challengingly in front of the unconscious ones, waiting for this Bellus to do something aside from mocking them...likely something that would send him flying a mile and a half...the sounds of groaning reached his ears finally.

"Huh?"

The lumbering shadow of Anaxagore fell over him from behind just as he was turning to see what was going on. He blinked at the injured man, but before he could protest due to his condition, his first trainer spoke.

“If she wanted us dead, we would be already…Let her speak….”

Said while pulling him by the arm, further away from the woman. Like a little toddler. Embarrassment, shame, and frustration knotted together in his stomach while also turning his cheeks a little red. This, naturally, also finally prompted Bellus to respond in their direction first.

"Ah, a smart one... yes your big brother is quite right... I would kill you all by now if I wanted to. By the Two, is that how desperate Zalzabar is? Taking up such weak non-Ryujin trash like you?"

Just barely he was able to keep his sword lowered, keeping in mind what Anaxagore said, but the teen was gritting his teeth. Hard. One day....One day....

"What's your problem... oh that energy... that murderous intent, reminds me of dear sweet Roger. And a half-orc... how disgusting, although I wonder, what the other half is, certainly not human I would be able to tell. Seems an awfully like..."

She was now commenting on Rebecca and Ne'tar respectively. The comment of 'half' surprised him, as he had thought Ne'tar had been full-blooded orc given his lack of knowledge on the race, but he couldn't focus on it overtly at the moment. His supreme agitation toward this unbearable woman was getting the better of him, though he kept his feet planted where he was. Even if they had subconsciously reverted to the feet placements of an opening attack stance that Anaxagore had shown him before.

"You fought my brothers Fifty Years ago, y-you?"

Dominus was up now and Cretaus looked at him, mildly surprised again, then back at Bellus with his expression darkening even further. She had fought Audacia and Veritas before?

"So this is the famous Dominus, do you customarily travel without a shirt? Although I never understood you Snow Elves, with all your secrets? Oh, what's this you have another one in your party? You truly are desperate Zalzabar, recruiting the brothers and sisters of Gelida, although I expect you never were told their dirty little secret. Why not Dominus, keeping knowledge away from your oh so precious human master?"

None of that meant much to him, though he did recognize the name of Gelida from their group meetings before. Maybe they would hear more of an explanation later...if Bellus kept to her word and didn't just kill all of them there and then, that is.

"Why... you!"

Dominus charged at that point, doing something Cretaus wanted to do, but knew was rather pointless coming from him. But the results...might as well have been him. Red lightning struck out immediately, before the Snow Elf ryujin got very far and he was down on the ground in pain.

"Relax, such thin skin."

"Dominus!" he shouted with alarm, frustration rising into real anger now.

Anaxagore had let go, and while he would respect his trainer's desire not to engage, there was nothing stopping him from helping others. Or trying to. He charged forward, weapon held down in one hand in a clear show that he was not assaulting Bellus, but instead went to Dominus' side and dropped to one knee beside him. Checking him over, not sure what to do, but wanting to do something!

"Are you ok? W-What can I do to help?" he asked frantically.

"Right, right I'm not supposed to kill you. A shame really. Well, it is very simple, a month from now Athas will be invaded and it will fall. It will not take us long to reach the capital, and when we do...You have a month to give up Zalzabar, my father would rather not see him killed, His knowledge and... well I suppose he hasn't told you much about his past has he? Sapientis will return, we will get those Dragon-God Artifacts before you, you don't even know where to look...give up Zalzabar and Malum gives his word that he will not raze the city to the ground."

The woman's words floating haughtily over the air with a superiority complex one could taste. She and Kaynus could have had such a fun conversation, he bet! But really...she was just pissing him off. His gaze, while still waiting for Dominus to speak to him, turned on toward her again. The hatred and contempt, despite being who he was, was as clear as day. His jaw was rigidly set. His eyes briefly flickered over to Rebecca, almost wishing for her to begin the assault first so he had a reason to assist. In the back of his mind, he knew that would be the worst thing they could do however. Too bad logic was taking a backseat at the moment.

"Or you could attack me now, see if you can take me on?"

His words were emotional and reckless, a teenager not used to this situation and way out of his depth.They were also as honest as an enemy's knife nakedly plunging toward you.

"I may be complete trash to you, but if you hope to inherit any stupid throne someday, even I can tell you're going to need to work on your lies. They're the worst even I've ever heard. Malum would destroy the city anyway and kill all of us even if we listened to you. We're not...I'm not...handing Zalzabar over to you or anyone else you send!"

Oh the show courage could bring forth when kickstarted by lifelong frustration and dedication shown to those few who had ever given him kindness...

And while he waiting for Dominus to give some sign of something he could do to help him, a much needed distraction from anything possibly foolish, he also waited to hear how the woman took his snappy reply. Anger boiling over with every second that past...

Tag: Bellus, Dominus, Anaxagore, Rebecca, Ne'tar, Kaynus, Zalzabar, Taella, Delsanra, & Esenma

@Shadowsun @greyjedi125 @galactic-vagabond422 @Mitth_Fisto @Ktala @The Jedi in the Pumas

 

Delsanra Taenya Helestina
Five Miles from Othos, Annoyed


Delsanra listed as the woman verbally assaulted the group, hinting at the information she had just learned, and other insults.

She gave a head tilt to Delsanra, her eyes flashing with glee.

"You truly are desperate Zalzabar, recruiting the brothers and sisters of Gelida, although I expect you never were told their dirty little secret. Why not Dominus, keeping knowledge away from your oh so precious human master?"

"Why... you!" Dominus charged the crimson knight,

He began to charge up to her, four red rods of lightning sprung up from the ground electrocuting the Knight of Illusion, his body dropping to the ground.

"Relax, such thin skin."

She then wiped her nose, thinking for a moment as she brought her hand to her chin.

"Right, right I'm not supposed to kill you. A shame really. Well, it is very simple, a month from now Athas will be invaded and it will fall. It will not take us long to reach the capital, and when we do..."

She looked over their battered faces thinking for another moment.

"You have a month to give up Zalzabar, my father would rather not see him killed, His knowledge and... well I suppose he hasn't told you much about his past has he?"

Red lightning crackled in her hair, a wistful smirk remaining on her face as she continued.

"Sapientis will return, we will get those Dragon-God Artifacts before you, you don't even know where to look...give up Zalzabar and Malum gives his word that he will not raze the city to the ground."

"Or you could attack me now, see if you can take me on?"

Delsanra slowly walked over, her face neutral as she walked close to where Dominus had fallen. And she thought Kaynus was insufferable.

"Are you quite finished yet?" she asked the crimson knight flatly. "You have been a good little minion. You made a dramatic entrance. You have delivered your message. Now go away a find yourself someone else to be a pain to." Delsanra dropped her hands to her sides. "Don't you have something else better to do... perhaps go play with the person who took out 3 of your Crimson Knights?"

Delsanra didn't wait for a reply but walked over to assist Dominus, while keeping an eye on Creatus.


TAG: @Shadowsun @greyjedi125 @galactic-vagabond422 @Mitth_Fisto @Darth_Elu @The Jedi in the Pumas

 

OOC: Feel free to respond to both updates if you haven't. For this update I would like everyone to respond (excluding Pumas).

The Nature of Time
​

Dominus did not respond to Cretaus's initial question of what he could do, his eyes just looking up into the boy's as he grunted in frustration.

"I may be complete trash to you, but if you hope to inherit any stupid throne someday, even I can tell you're going to need to work on your lies. They're the worst even I've ever heard. Malum would destroy the city anyway and kill all of us even if we listened to you. We're not...I'm not...handing Zalzabar over to you or anyone else you send!"

Bellus looked bemused at Cretaus's little outburst, her eyes glinting harshly as she pointed a finger at the poor boy. Lightning crackled on the end of it as a smirk spread over her face. Before she could unleash it however the female snow elf had something to say.

"Are you quite finished yet? You have been a good little minion. You made a dramatic entrance. You have delivered your message. Now go away a find yourself someone else to be a pain to...Don't you have something else better to do... perhaps go play with the person who took out 3 of your Crimson Knights?"

This was all Delsanra would be able to say as the words of Cretaus still hung in the air.

"Oh I'll be along my way once this I teach this little runt a lesson.

Their effect permeating throughout it, his declaration still carrying on the wind. Then a feeling washed over him, one he had never felt in his entire life. It was as if a wellspring of energy had been unlocked within Cretaus's inner self.

The heir to the Haugunite throne flicked her fingers, lightning extending from them as it traveled its way to Cretaus.

"We're not...I'm not...handing Zalzabar over to you or anyone else you send!"

The words of Cretaus echoed once more, as if lasting eons. Cretaus saw something in his mind's eye, a being he had only heard legends of. He had no way to recognize who it was but somehow he just knew.

Spoiler

Cretaus you have suffered much in your life, and in all times I have been watching.

It was I that ensured you find that invitation dropped by the Knight in South Osatia.

It was I that brought the ship for you to board upon to sail for Loreth.

It was I that when your satchel was lost ensured your map remained safe.

It was I that kept protected you from the Wood Elves as you traveled through the outskirts of Loreth.

It was I that kept you warm while you transversed the cold, harsh mountains of Athas.

I have watched over you Child of Argentum for that is all I am bound to do, but now I impart my final gift to you. Your vow affirming what I have always known Cretaus.

You, along with all those that travel with Zalzabar, shall bring forth the defeat of Sapientis.

I, Tellus, Lord of Time, bestow this final gift unto you oh magicless child. With it may you bend Time itself to your Will."

"Heed my words carefully child for in the city of Othos you will meet with one named Tempus Aeterna, he will teach you to control this power, and guide you all to the Eyes of the Three"

"Remain hopeful Son of Argentum, for only with hope will you all defeat Sapientis​

​

And then it happened, a disturbance unlike what any of those gathered there had ever seen.

Deep, ancient magic.

Cretaus's dormant aura exploded in an invisible display as the lightning traveled towards him. His aura was so intense that even Rebecca and Kaynus would be able to feel the effects, and in the next moment, it was as if everything stopped.

Bellus, Zalzabar, Dominus, Delsanra, Anaxagore, Rebecca, Ne'tar, Taella, Esenma and Kaynus. All of them frozen in time. All of them save for Cretaus. It was as if time itself had frozen around Cretaus.

And then in another instant everything resumed. Everyone that had been 'paused' felt knowing that had been but had no recollection of it happening. As if they had been asleep. With that gone his aura faded to a quiet hum, quieter than even the suppressed auras of the adept ryujin.

Then the effects of Cretaus's magic would become noticeable. The lightning had lagged, zipping off up to the sky out of sight.

As the others would come to view Bellus they would see that her arm she had unleashed the lightning from was lying neatly on the grassy plains, separated from her body.

"You... y-you... brat! W-what the hell are you?"

She staggered back, clutching her arm. She wanted desperately to slaughter the worthless worm. But with shock still in her eyes she called forth lightning to engulf her and she disappeared once more, her fallen arm remaining in the plains.

Zalzabar very slowly sat up and looked towards Cretaus.

"Cretaus...what did you do?"

As Zalzabar said this it would become increasingly clear that by no means should they be staying in this open spot any longer, and so when the group was ready Zalzabar would intruct them to move out.

TAG: @Darth_Elu @Mitth_Fisto @galactic-vagabond422 @The Jedi in the Pumas @Ktala @greyjedi125

 

Rebecca Dragon
Near Othos

Talk talk talk. It was getting on her nerves. Her blood was boiling and no one was doing anything. Verbal barbs were traded back and forth, even one directed at her, though she was so deep into her death stare that she could hardly hear it. Something about murderous intent. That was abundantly clear, even the Kid could see the violence in the merc's eyes.

She held it back, kept holding it back, even as the flames licked at her heart and made her whole body feel like it was going to burst into flames she held back. Then the Strumpet leveled her fingers at the Kid and Rebecca could feel the energy, and see the intent in the other woman's eyes. In a flash Rebecca's blade was drawn ready to spill fresh blood. Then the world stopped or maybe it did. She felt a rush of energy like nothing she'd ever experienced before, and then it was gone. The suddenness of it all led her to stumble, giving just a moment for the soon to be dead tramp to realize her mistake. Rebecca was close, her sword was raised coming down with deadly intent. In a flash of light, her target was gone. Her blade striking nothing but smoke and vapor.

Another primal scream left her throat as she drove her blade into the ground. On her knees she glanced around for something anything to sate her need, her bloodlust. Her eyes once again falling on Dominus. He would heal right, he could take her hate, her need for killing right? The blood didn't care it was only her heart trying to justify the thoughts running through her head. She'd been holding back for so long it was hard to tell which thoughts were hers, and which were the bloods. Could that distinction even be made at this point? Was there any difference between the two?

The fiery merc stood once more stalking towards the group, towards Dominus, death in her eyes.

Something needed to die...by her hand.

TAG: @Darth_Elu @Mitth_Fisto @Shadowsun @The Jedi in the Pumas @Ktala @greyjedi125

 

Anaxagore
Nothing left in the tank

Bellus Dragonson was a threat far greater than King Ziki had benefit wouldn’t take a genius to figure that out.

Anaxagore had used every single erg of energy he possessed while doing his part to bring down the Son of Sapientis. It took the sheer might of every single Ryujin in their party, Adept and Elder, to bring him down, all their energy in addition to being nearly completely decimated by the encounter.

Depleted as they all were, they stood no chance against Bellus, who mocked them liberally and to her dark heart’s content. There was not much anyone could do.

Lord Zalzabar knew it, Lady Esenma knew it, Delsanra knew it; why even Rebecca knew it. Ne’tar made the sensible choice not to engage.

So why did Cretaus imaginehe could do anything in their favor by antagonizing the woman? Did he not realize she could end them all without even trying??

It took every whiff of vapor of energy in Anaxagore being to get up and remove Cretaus from Bellus’ proximity. Words were exchanged, Dominus reacted and was quickly layed low. Anaxagore stopped forcing his legs to carry him and allowed himself to fall down on his cot once again. As soon as he sat down, Cretaus was off again, this time moving towards Dominus.

Anaxagore wanted, needed to protest, but he simply didn’t have the energy, so he took a moment to catch his breath and simply watched what transpired next.

"We're not...I'm not...handing Zalzabar over to you or anyone else you send!"

Cretaus mouthed off as any angry young man his age was wont to do. Anaxagore, the self appointed Protector of Regnum did not have to guess what would come next. He saw it in Bellus’ eyes, her posture, the subtle tells in her body language.

Anaxagore grunted as he summoned strength he could not find from a place that did not exist- well, until now. He felt something pop in his back as he rose, his mouth opened in a silent yell. Something on his left knee tore, he stumbled , but managed to keep himself from falling by hunching down. He had to get to Cretaus before the energy gathering in Bellus’ finger was released.

He'd waited over 150 long years to find someone he deemed worthy to train, to become a Protector as he was; that someone was Cretaus. And now, Creatus would pay the ultimate price for his boldness. Anaxagore’s eyes grew wide as he moved forward, but he knew it, he was too slow, far too slow. Right now, he couldn't move as faster than a wounded sloth, much less fast enough to catch lightning.

The horrible realization crystallized itself in his mind: He was about to watch Creatus die before his eyes!!

“NOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!!”

And then it happened, a disturbance unlike any of those gathered had ever experienced.

Deep, ancient magic.

---------
-----
---
-
Anaxagore blinked, a strange feeling was ‘leaving’ him?

Then he unceremoniously stumbled onto the floor.

From down on the dirt, Anaxagore could ‘hear’ the lightning shot receding in the distance. Had Bellus missed? At that distance? How did Cretaus avoid a lightning attack at such a short range?

Then he saw something else that caused him to gape. Bellus’ arm had been somehow hewn off and was now laying on the floor?

Impossible!!!

"You... y-you... brat! W-what the hell are you?" The daughter of Malum Dragonson demanded.

Bellus staggered back, clutching the stump where her arm had been. Anaxagore could see it plainly in her face: the surprise, the shock, the disgust, the fear!! Instantly, she called forth lightning to engulf her and she disappeared once more, her fallen arm remaining in the plains.

Anaxagore remained laying down on the dirt where he’d fallen. He had just enough energy to turn his head and see Zalzabar, who’d gotten up and looked towards Cretaus.

“Cretaus…what did you do?” The Elder Ryujin seemed confused and astounded beyond measure.

Anaxagore’s peripheral vision darkened more an more with every blink of his eyes as he waited for Cretaus to offer an answer, but before anyone else could speak, he would lapse back into unconsciousness.

The Protector of Regnum was out cold and unable to see the murderous intent in Rebecca's eyes as she approached.



Tag: @Shadowsun, @Darth_Elu, @Mitth_Fisto, @galactic-vagabond422, @Ktala, @The Jedi in the Pumas

 

Esenma
-Outskirts of Othos, Dreaming...Remembering...

Lightning aura.

Crackling. Intense.

The hairs on her unconscious body rose!

Yet...unconscious she remained...

------

3414 AZ
Taetian Isles, Taetus
​

"So, he's a ryujin and he's of a water nature?"

The comment was more to himself than to Esenma. He observed the younger Nezzarellium moving across the water. A ryujin brother. The man who would inherit the throne looked down at the water that his feet were submerged in. He sat on the edge of the dock, his mother standing beside him.

"You seem disappointed, Derius." Esenma noted with a chuckle. "A bit of jealousy, perhaps. It's okay to be a non-ryujin, my love."

A hand waved her off. "No mother. I am only disappointed in myself for not noticing his ryujin aura before. How long have you known?"

A warm smiled spread across her face. "Since he was only a bean inside my belly."

Nezzarellium, swimming and oblivious to their conversation, continued to move the water in spouts around him in dazzling displays of ability. A strange feeling rose from within Derius. His dislike of ryujin supremacy had grown since his youth; the acceptance of the world that ryujin were special and something to be feared, as if the dreaded three had doomed the rest of them to lives of servitude under draconian reign. This dislike, this disgust of ryujins, evaporated when he thought of his mother and it was nonexistent as he looked upon his little brother. Why? Why so easily?

"You knew I was not ryujin at the same time, then, I presume."

Esenma's smile slightly dampened in its brightness. "Yes. Which made me happy."

He looked away from Nezzy and up at her.

"It made me happy because I could sense the power you possessed; your potential. A potential that no ryujin could possess. We ryujin are strong because of the gift of the Three, Derius, it is natural for us. There are countries where being a ryujin is surprisingly common. Mages like you, however, are exceptionally rare. There is a difference. You feel it, don't you my love?"

He did not respond. In the silence that hung between them there was a silent acknowledgement by them that Derius could feel the difference. The innate difference between those who are given power and those that naturally possess it. That is how he viewed ryujins and that was how they behaved; they thanked "The Three" for Regnum and their abilities. They flaunted them and used them to rule the world. The ones that were overly aggressive, like Haugun's ryujin or the rare Orc ryujins, he appreciated because they understood that their strength was something to be improved upon or tested and carried no holy attitude. His mother was a mix of both: The Sky Dragon relished the thrill of combat, but also believed in the spiritual nature of ryujin. He did not agree, but never had Derius turned a blind ear to her stories: the same ones she used to tell when he was young.

Esenma stared down at her older son. The Elders of Southern Taetus feared him, feared his stronger than natural affinity for the dark elves' dark nature. His aura...To Esenma it was more potent than her own. What made him truly unique was that he seemed to surrounded by his dark nature without accessing it completely. He would master a second nature, she knew, judging from how quickly he had become formidable with his Wind Magic. Cassius, the great wind elder, cautioned her: her emotions towards Derius would cloud her judgement and blind her to his ways. Esenma was not blind: It was quite clear that Derius would bring ruin to the world around him in pursuit of his own goals. However, as she looked at how he looked at Nezzarellium, she knew that there was something inside Derius that would save him. No one outside could do it. She was confident that he would stop himself before he went too far...

"Der! Tell me you saw that!" Nezzy asked as he surfed back to the dock and collided with the pillar, tripping on the ledge and propelling himself into a crash landing. He rubbed his head and laughed. "Der! I'm really getting a hand of this water magic! I haven't even tapped into my ryujin power yet. By the three, I feel incredible!"

"You are incredible, Nezzy. We will get your skills honed and your talents developed." A smile from his brother was all that Nezzy needed. Motivated, he stood and punched the air.

"Der, can you take me with you to the Northern Gateway? I could learn so much from you there."

"No. Stay with the Southerners. Learn from mother and learn from them. When the time is right, I will send for you to join me. In the meantime, I must get back to the King. He is not in good health. Keep mother protected. Always. Schneider." As his name was spoken, Esenma felt Derius' best friend appear behind her, attempting to surprise her. He swiped to grab her with both arms and found himself immediately grasping a wind elemental in her place that wrapped its strong gusts around him. He yelled in surprise and laughed before kneeling before the Skydragon and the Princes.

​

"My Queen, it is a pleasure as always. Prince Nezzarellium, my how strong you've gotten."

"Schneider, we will be taking our leave. Mother, Nezzy, I love you both, forever."

Derius looked at Esenma, lovingly, warm. He only felt like this before he left her. Only when he left her knowing that he was going to do something horrible. Yet, she always replied with the same: A warm smile and saying "My love, go do something to change the world."

------

Esenma's body was fully relaxed, as she lay unconscious. She smiled and slowly her eyes drifted open, falling on Cretaus. She said aloud:

"Change...the...World." Before drifting back off to her deep slumber.

Tag: @Shadowsun @Darth_Elu @greyjedi125 @Ktala @Mitth_Fisto @galactic-vagabond422

 

IC: Dominus
Five Miles from Othos

Dominus had never lost consciousness after Bellus's attack, her intent it seemed had never been to do serious harm to the Snow Elf, just merely stop him in his tracks. He felt the same sensation as the others, the same magical energy of time stopping around them, only for them to be pulled back.

He saw Cretaus above him, the magic had originated from the boy, Lord Zalzabar looking questioningly to the teen. Mountains of questions came to Dominus's head but he knew one thing for certain, this power, this nature, whatever it was, was dangerous.

He would not have time to ask any of these questions as the familiar sight of death rammed toward him. Rebecca. A monster in human skin. The same sensation he felt when he dueled her on the Mountains of Athas vibrated throughout his body. That of fear.

Now having grown accustomed to the look of bloodlust associated with Ostatian Warrior, he readied himself, standing upright. His nature of enhancement allowing him to heal far faster than any of the other Ryujin gathered there.

A moment passed as a clone of himself phased out of him, taking a step towards Rebecca. The clone of the snow elf came to his knees, unable to look at his executioner.

"Do what you must."

TAG: @galactic-vagabond422 @Darth_Elu @greyjedi125 @Mitth_Fisto @Ktala @The Jedi in the Pumas

 

(Posted with @Shadowsun approval)

Rebecca Dragon
Outskirts of Othos

The fire was scorching through her veins burning her up eating away at her. Her eyes locked on to Dominus, knowing he could take her rage, he could survive her anger. Sensing this, the snow elf rose healing himself before her eyes. The familiar sight of a clone being summoned made her heart beat faster...good, he understood. The clone dropped to his knees before her offering himself up as a sacrifice to her blood, her burning boiling blood. But, like a petulant child, it didn't want it. A simple easy kill was offered to her blood, and it rejected it.

"NO!" She bellowed bringing up her blood and dirt covered boot, before slamming it into the side of his face. "FIGHT ME." She screamed again, clocking the ersatz elf with her closed fist sending him crashing to the ground. Dropping to her knees she pinned his chest to the ground. "FIGHT BACK." She gripped his shoulder with her open hand and lifted his head and neck from the ground. "I KNOW YOU CAN." A resounding thud was heard as she slammed his head and shoulders into the ground. "FIGHT ME." Her broad palm moved up to his neck tensing but not choking him. "BY THE THREE FIGHT ME. FIGHT ME DAMN YOU." With each sentence she slammed his head into the dirt, the long grass bent around them. "ARE YOU A DRAGON OR A WORM. HAVE YOU NO PRIDE. WHERE IS YOUR SPIRIT HUH? IS THIS HOW YOU HONOR YOUR BROTHERS? JUST LAYING DOWN AND TAKING LIKE A COMMON WHORE. WORSE THAN YOU DO THIS FOR NO REWARD. DO YOU ENJOY THIS, THIS PAIN, DOES IT EXCITE YOU?" Her words carried over the fields her vitriol heard by all around. "DOES IT MAKE YOU FEEL SOMETHING IN THOSE COLD DEAD NETHERS OF YOURS. YOU DEVIANT, YOU BASTARD, YOU HARLOTOR'S STRUMPET." Her hand lifted his head up again the rage flaring in her eyes, the inferno burning in her dark pupils. "FIGHT ME." She roared in his face. With a final slam she bent over him, her loose wild red hair falling like a cascade of blood around them hiding their faces.

"please…" she nearly whimpered, her voice quiet and weak, in the intimate moment. It was just them the others felt far away even though they were only about a dozen steps away. "please i don't want to hurt anyone else." In that moment he could see, under the death in her eyes was a small tiny bit of pain, of something near to remorse. "i need you to fight….please"

This was not the Laughing Butcher, the wonton murderer that left nothing but death in her wake. This was Becca, a scared young woman that didn't want to be a monster, that feared losing control, that wanted to keep her promise to her father.

"please…."

She pressed her forehead against his, her hand moving up to caress his cheek. Tears fell down touching his skin. Not his own from pain but, hers at the turmoil inside of her.

Dominus closed his eyes slightly nodding his head.

A slight smile bloomed over the warrior's face.

His hands slid up her protected flanks coming up to rest on her shoulders. It would almost look like an embrace as his arms draped over her shoulders and pulled her close. His fingers moved up carding through her hair, before clenching tight around her skull and turning to the side with all the strength he could muster.

The cursed blood warrior found herself quickly on her back Dominus over her a stone faced expression on his face, his fist raised. With an equal amount of violence as she had shown he brought his fist down catching her on the chin. Her head snapped to the side slowly turning to face him a smile on her face and blood on her teeth. Becca was locked away again...only the Butcher remained.

With a laugh she slammed her fists into his chest yet the snow elf remained unmoved. He rained down blows right and left battering her face. Her arms came up to protect her head, his fists leaving bruises on her even through her armor. In a break in the hail of punches Rebecca struck Dominus in the face with the pommel of her sword granting her just a moment to club him in the side of the head with her other fist. The combined strikes were just enough to let her get her legs under his chest and slam her boots into his chest, sending him tumbling back. As quick as her armored form would let her she got to her feet. Just in time to see Dominus bring his legs up then snap them forward like a spring catapulting the rest of his body up and landing on his feet.

Rebecca charges forward blade held at her shoulder veins burning with rage and death. The sun glinted off her blade as it swung forth looking to decapitate the clone. Fast as lightning he ducked catching her with a short punch to her gut. His hardened shin crashed into the side of her leg right above her knee with a resounding clang like steel against steel.

She wanted a fight, she was getting it.

Her body tensed at the pain but, it wasn't enough to stop her chopping at her opponent's leg turning her body to face him in her preferred guard, The Stance of the Lady. Dominus took up his fighting stance, center lowered, feet apart, hands up ready to strike or defend. With only a breath to prepare Rebecca rushed in lashing out with quick short slashes, not mighty cleaving swings that would leave her open. Dominus for his part stepped into her forcing her short slashes to be even shorter, his sensuous frame moving like water around her blows. Her first few swings striking nothing but air.

A hard right hand thudded into her side, drawing a strained grunt from her mouth. She slammed her pommel down catching the snow elf on the back of the head. With smooth practiced motions her left hand moved up to grip her blade, halfswording to get inside his short range. Bringing her blade back up Dominus nearly bent himself in half to avoid it getting a long cut across his chest for the trouble. Taking only a step away a hard straight kick caught the merc in the chest sending her sliding away. The crash of his foot against her chest echoed through her.

Yes...this is what she wanted, what her blood craved.

She charged at him again not giving him any time to breathe. He stepped to the side landing another hard shot into her side. As she turned she snapped her arm out catching him with the back of her fist. She heard the snap of bones breaking under his skin. Dominus was unfazed landing another thudding punch into her side. Pain shot through her as ribs broke under her armor.

The smile grew deeper as the fire burned brighter in her eyes. Turning slightly she drove her blade down trusting at the exposed leg of the servant of Zalzabar. Her blood was singing as her blade buried deep into his thigh.

There was no shout of pain from him, only a mighty punch that sent her reeling stumbling backward, her body tensing in pain as her ribs cried out. She could see the wound already healing. There was no time to waste.

With speed unseen by any Rebecca slashed at any opportunity looking to bury Dominus in attacks. Her blade didn't meet with soft flesh but hardened skin as the snow elf defended himself.

The clash sent vibrations all the way through her, from the tips of her hair to the soles of her feet her whole body just tingled with power. In-between the fast slashes hard strikes landed, shins and fists leaving dents in her armor. Her knee was so bent and damaged it could hardly move but it didn't matter to her. She was planted firmly on her spot doing everything she could to keep Dominus in front of her. He didn't back away either.

It was pure noise, no beat or rhythm, just ringing steel. Small cuts appeared on Dominus's arms unable to keep up with Rebecca's strikes but, every inch of her chest was covered in bruises, her armor dented preventing her from moving as fulidly as she used to. Though she powered through them. Her blood reveled in the pain, enjoyed the punishment and the challenge. Though even her threshold was being reached.

Blow after blow fell both of them giving their all. They were slowing down the strikes coming in slower and slower.

With a final chop her blade cut deep into Dominus's chest. Unable to stand the snow elf, Rebecca fell close behind, dropping to her knees over him. Pulling her blade out she brought it over her head and drove the point into his chest. Her chest heaved with heavy breaths, the pommel of her blade resting against her chest. Her heart slowed and her whole body tensed and released. A wave of relief washed over her. She slumped down, pulling her blade from his chest. Out of breath and the pain overwhelming her tears of joy rolled down her cheeks as a deep sigh left her.

"Thank you…" She whispered again her long hair spilling around them in a curtain of red. "Thank you."

TAG: @Shadowsun @Mitth_Fisto @Darth_Elu @greyjedi125 @The Jedi in the Pumas @Ktala

 

Kaynus Allbright IC:
~Outskirts of Othos, Athas~

His noble and majestic blood worked hard to help the Ryujin of Blinding Light recover fully from his injuries incurred during the battle against Zikki. The Battle of Goblin Pass had been great indeed and he had done his part to help these worthless fools in their victory. Zalzabar and the others should be singing praises to him for his timely aid!

True, he had initially been overwhelmed and had difficulty with the hordes crowding around him and forcing him to become separated from the group he had been in. But in the end, he turned it all to their advantage. But of course he had. He was Kaynus Allbright, Heir to the Three!

But after all the exertion, he was allowed some rest, even after becoming healed. These commoners and plebes could just wait for him to awaken before doing anything else. And yet sounds drifted in and out of his hearing, trying to pull him from his slumber. How dare they interrupt his sleep!? Their manners were as atrocious as their abilities in combat! At least in comparison to himself.

To be fair, no one compared to him, but even so.

"Oh I'll be along my way once this I teach this little runt a lesson."

His eyes flew open. Wait a moment. He knew that voice. He knew that voice!! Could it be? Wha...What was Bellus Dragonson doing with them?

Slowly, very slowly, he turned on his side while also sitting up to look. It was at this moment, before his eyes fully came onto the scene that he felt something strange. A burst of energy. Of power. It was so...odd. So exhilarating! And...frightening. Just what was that?

His eyes finally fell on the scene, completely oblivious to the fact that he had just been frozen for an instant. Kaynus did not see the lightning shooting upward into the sky, but he did see Bellus for sure.

Kaynus opened his mouth to object to her presence, ready to demand why she was there. His feet starting to quake ever so slightly...but not from fear! No, no, of course not. Never that!

"Why ar--!"

She was not focused on him. Only on one of them. The most pathetic of them all. Cretaus. But of course she would spot the lowliest bug in the group, it was rather revolting he had been allowed in after all. The justification for his presence he couldn't even begin to fathom.

"You... y-you... brat! W-what the hell are you?"

A bug of course. But why did she sound so.......

Her arm was on the plains. Her whole right arm had been neatly severed from her body. Bellus Dragonson's arm was cut off!

Kaynus' eyes bulged. How was that possible? That shouldn't have been possible! He alone knew, in this party, exactly what that woman was capable of! Who could have....Why was she staring at the kid!?

Realization began to dawn on him as he registered the literal fear on Bellus' face, next in line to Haugun's Throne, suddenly summon her lightning to...run....away...

That energy a second ago. No. There was no conceivable way. The boy was magic-less! Skill-less! Talentless! Everything-less! What on Regnum had he just missed!!

"Cretaus...what did you do?"

Silence hung in the air for a moment. With a clearing of his throat from where he was now full sitting up, he pointed dramatically in the blond teenager's direction. Almost like an accusation.

"I also DEMAND to know what just happened!!"

As he waited for his answer, which better not take too long in coming as he was the one asking for it, Kaynus observed the strange altercation between Rebecca and Dominus from start to end. His face scrunched up in disgust. These low lives and their odd ways were pathetic. It was a wonder the redhead didn't just also devolve into a cannibal, feasting upon the clone's corpse as soon as it was done for. It would certainly fit her revolting, blood-streaked visage!

Tag: Cretaus, Zalzabar, Esenma, Anaxagore, Delsanra, Dominus, Rebecca, Taella, & Ne'tar

@Shadowsun @The Jedi in the Pumas @greyjedi125 @Ktala @galactic-vagabond422 @Mitth_Fisto | For Narrative Purposes: @Master Vo'Un'Var

 

Delsanra Taenya Helestina
Five Miles from Othos

Well!

Delsanra was at a lost for words. She had stepped up the to crimson knight, when the woman pointed a finger towards Cretaus snd spoke

"Oh I'll be along my way once this I teach this little runt a lesson."

The young boy spoke back, his words hot with anger ... and something else.

We're not...I'm not...handing Zalzabar over to you or anyone else you send!"

And then...

Something happened.
Something that sang within her elven self. Something that stirred the mage. Magic. But not just any magic.

Ancient magic. Deep magic. Something she had never felt in all of her teachings but had heard many tales of old about it. And it seemed to come from Creatus?

And then.

There was a pause in time. She knew this because the next moment, the crimson knight Bellus arm was laying in the grass and she was holding her arm. She staggered back, clutching her arm.

"You... y-you... brat! W-what the hell are you?"

And the look of fear in her eyes was unmistakable. What had just happened? Somehow, the scale had suddenly been tipped back in their favor. She looked between Cretaus and Bellus, and she was finding it difficult not to smile, as the woman quickly disappeared once more.

Zalzabar very slowly sat up and looked towards Cretaus.

"Cretaus...what did you do?"

"I also DEMAND to know what just happened!!" Delsanra turned her head to the sound of the voice. Oh good. The annoying one was awake.

But then a blood duel, fortunately, kept any other questions he had held at bay for abit as Rebecca could no longer contain her bloodlust, and had to find something to kill, so Dominus stepped in this time. Once it was all over, and it seemed as if they would need to move once more, Delsanar shook her head.

And then she laughed.

Afterward, she looked towards Zalzabar. "Indeed. We need to move. But since many of us are unable to walk " Delsanra nodded towards Esenma, I can call up some horses and a wagon, if that will do."

TAG: @The Jedi in the Pumas @Darth_Elu @Mitth_Fisto @galactic-vagabond422 @greyjedi125 @Shadowsun

 

A fun flashback combo with @Darth_Elu, please enjoy!

---

Anaxagore & Cretaus
First Training, Zalzabar's Village

Slowly, he rose from his sleeping position making no noise whatsoever. to say that he felt refreshed and re-energized would be an understatement, thanks to Taella’s healing ministrations. Elven herbs always worked the best with Ryujin metabolism, at least in his experience.

Anaxagore looked to the side and simply regarded Taella as she slept, the tranquility that surrounded her was almost palpable. Needless to say, he would not wake her, for she too needed rest. To that end, the Ryujin Warrior reached for his clothing as silently as he was able, placed a warm cover over the elf, then slipped out of the room, closing the door behind him.

He dressed in the hallway, as there was no one who would happen upon him, or so he hoped.

His mind had been made up since before leaving the dining area. Actually, that wasn’t quite true. His mind had been made up for sometime now, even before the encounter with the Crimson Knights. Anaxagore had been so impressed with the boy’s determination, that he had made it all the way to Lord Zalzabar’s Castle on sheer will alone, that he knew then that Cretaus would make a formidable Protector of Regnum, if he received the proper training.

Then Cretaus said something that confirmed it beyond a shadow of a doubt.

This was no coincidence.

And so, Anaxagore silently made his way to the room where Cretaus was sleeping and gently shook him awake. Placing a finger to his lips, Anaxagore bid him be quiet, then signaled for him to dress himself and follow.

Cretaus could only stare after Anaxagore with a groggy, sleepy expression. He had been warned, the blond teen vaguely recalled, that the man had told him that he would see him soon. Apparently that was now. With a turn of the head toward the window, he noticed it was still dark outside. So early the sun was not even up yet.

A silent groan escaped his lips. Perhaps he shouldn't have lingered in the bath so long with Zalzabar...

Some things couldn't be helped however and he clambered out of bed as stealthily as he could. Slowly putting on the leather armor and basic underclothes that had come with it, he saw Anaxagore still waiting for him. Upon the settlement of the last boot, the dark haired man beckoned for him to follow.

Cretaus' eyebrow rose, still drowsily. Where on Regnum was he leading him?

Knowing there was only one way to find out, he moved after the ryujin that claimed himself a protector.

Anaxagore moved off out of sight, allowing the boy his space and dignity has he changed. Despite his sleepiness, Cretaus still seemed willing to meet as agreed. The Ryujin Protector took this as a good sign. Shortly after the boy was dressed in his leathers, the two exited the main building in silence as Anaxagore led Cretaus to a now empty backyard space.

In a smooth motion, Anaxagore looked to the side, then blew out a breath, literally lighting a campfire that had been out, located several meters away, thus availing them with some illumination and heat.

“In a few hours we’ll be going into battle….” Anaxagore declared, speaking directly to Cretaus in an even tone. “You need a crash course in sword combat.” He stated plainly. “I promise to begin training you properly after we get past this event.”

The dark haired ryujin gave Cretaus a solid nod, then handed him one of his Scimitar blades and watched him carefully.

“First, I’ll show you how to properly hold the blade, single handed and two-handed, along with proper stances and foot work. Basic attacks, basic blocks, parries and counters, nothing fancy. Every warrior, like every home, needs a solid foundation on which to stand on before you can build on it. Understand?”

With that being said, Anaxagore came to stand next to Cretaus.

“Alright, first I’ll show you how to grip a sword properly. Let’s begin.”

The moment they stepped outside into a backyard area, Cretaus rubbed his arms despite the leather. The early morning hours were particularly biting cold around here. Even more so than back in Essatia. But Anaxagore fixed the problem with only a breath, a flame starting nearby. He blinked, but instead of remarking like normal, he just shook his head in wonder. He was starting to get used to such things, amazing though they were!

Then came Anaxagore's opening declaration, which got his full attention. Battle. In just a few hours. When put like that, he could feel some nerves starting to set in. But the statement about training gave a small sense of elation, which was amplified by the immediate feeling of relief afterward. Relief that he was still, in fact, him. He was not broken after all. He still craved to be taught, to learn, to fight, to adventure alongside them all.

The conversation last night with Zalzabar might have helped more than he thought, he mused before refocusing.

When the curved sword was handed to him, he took it silently. Almost reverently and once again marveled at the weight. Once again not terrible, but definitely more than he had originally expected. His eyes trained, now no longer sleepy but very alert, on the ryujin man as he went over what their first morning lessons would entail.

Cretaus just nodded once and stated with all the conviction possible, "Right. I'm ready."

A foundation, he understood the sentiment. Though he allowed the talk of home bypass him as if it were wind, that meant nothing to him.

"How to grip it...right," he replied and did his best to get what he thought was a decent hold, but waiting for the imminent corrections. Then a small memory from back at Zalzabar's Castle struck him, right after the Trial of Power. The words of Rebecca, not that he knew her name at the time.

"Oh, by the way. Rebecca mentioned something to me before about how I would be smart to use a lighter sword, would suit me better...I think she might be right? What do you think?"

Anaxagore placed a hand over Cretaus' blade hand, feeling the tension there. "Good." he said as he listened to the boy speak.

"Open your stance a bit more, shoulder width. Your stance is too narrow. Now bend your knees a bit. Yeah, like that."

The ryujin warrior made a sweeping motion with his foot to see if Cretaus was paying attention, or if he would lose his balance. Having a proper stance and balance was a core foundation to all forms of combat training. "Left foot forward, right foot back."

"Rebecca said that?" Anaxagore chimed, nodding in mild surprise. So, the Laughing Butcher was giving helpful tips to the boy. That was good. Perhaps coin was not her sole motivation. Perhaps there was hope for her as well.

"I agree. A lighter sword would suit you best. These two were made specifically for my needs and combat style. Now follow these three simple motions. First, guard forward."

Anaxagore pointed his sword forward, then attacked an invisible opponent with three strikes as he simultaneously moved, attacking the mid-zone. Cross chop, parry, thrust, then back to guard.

"Watch my foot work and rhythm, move fluidly, but with precision. Relax. We'll do a partner exercise once you get the sequence."

He repeated the motions again, then turned to the boy.

"Your turn."

Soon enough Cretaus found himself shifting his 'stance' as Anaxagore called it, with the now proper eye and hand to guide him. Moving his feet to be at shoulder width, he felt a bit better. Especially since the man had liked his initial grip, that made him feel good. Simple though it was.

As instructed, he bent his knees until the ryujin approved. Already he felt more balanced. Such a simple though, how to stand. Cretaus could only wonder how much of a difference it would actually make in battle.

Then came the sweeping foot, which made him stumble forward in surprise.

"Ahhh!"

But Cretaus did not fall. He grumbled and shot Anaxagore a look, the return look had him simply resume the standing position or stance, that was being required of him. Adjusting so it was better, with some additional instruction, he then heard about the better placement of the feet. Cretaus looked down and did so, getting them into place, then back up at Anaxagore himself to see if he approved again.

When he expressed surprise about Rebecca's advice, he just gave a little nod. "Yeah, she did. I guess if you agree, I really should look into it."

Mimicking the black-haired ryujin doing the 'guard' pose, he then watched him practice three different strikes, being asked to repeat. Cretaus did his best, if sloppily and very rough. It took him a few times before he remember to watch Anaxagore's feet. Who knew the feet were so important in combat?

Cretaus started watching them more carefully, switching back to the actual strike movements, and then back again. He did his best to copy Anaxagore, not coming even close...but getting noticeably better with each repetition. That's what he thought at any rate.

It was the relaxing part he was having the most difficulty with, not that he meant to tense up, it just kind of happened instinctively. But he kept doing his best to do so as he went through the chop, the parry, and the thrust. The first being the one he felt the most confidence in.

Anaxagore watched carefully, seeing how the boy performed. Without giving himself away, Anaxagore moved in front of Cretaus and blocked the chopping strike.

"Don't stop." He instructed.

The ryujin warrior wished to test the boys rhythm, resolve and strength through contact. "Let's see how you're progressing."

Cretaus hesitated for a small moment when Anaxagore blocked the strike, taken by surprise. He looked at him with an upraised brow, but then nodded lightly and tightened his grip further. So now he was to duel him...well, sort of. A slight amount of sweat broke out from his nerves while he continued to do the moves shown to him, but with an actual target ahead of him.

His movements were likely sloppy and mediocre, but he did the best he could as he went to thrust toward the ryujin ahead of him. Cretaus did his best to remember the precise movement, only hoping he wasn't making a fool of himself so soon.

Anaxagore watched his young charge as he began to ever so slowly increase the speed other exchanges, adding small, yet also increasing variations to his attacks. He did not wish for Cretaus to fall into a pattern or anticipate his opponents moves, but rather, flow and adjust in the moment. Granted, such instinctual skills was born out of constant practice and repetition, but Anaxagore could see that Cretaus was both a natural and a fast learner.

Without saying a word, the Ryujin Adept continued with his increasing changes in pace and attack, waiting to see if young Cretaus would notice, say something, or simply adapt as they progressed.

As the training progressed, Cretaus continued doing what he had been instructed in. Being the first time he had ever done anything like this before, he found himself slowly being lulled into a repetitious pattern, even with Anaxagore taking a more direct approach now. This happened for some time, until he blinked. Something felt wrong, like the way the strike of sword on sword vibrated up his arm. It was different, a little more jarring than at first.

His strikes were getting mistimed now. Not by a lot, but enough. The usual area he seemed to strike Anaxagore's blade started changing. His master was changing angle and most notably...speed. The tempo was gradually getting thrown off! He didn't say anything, at least not yet, just furrowed his brow and starting going faster. Trying to keep up.

A little bit of sweat began to form as he attempted this, not fully succeeding yet not wholly being behind either. He felt like he was over-correcting himself somehow, but the exact nuance of what he was doing he couldn't quite figure out. It was starting to bother him. But he kept going until told to stop or something else changed, he wouldn't give up! Not that he finally began receiving training like he had been hoping for!

If he gave up, he'd be a disgrace. To himself if nothing else.

"Speed is good, but it isn't your only option." Anaxagore spoke after a moment, noticing the changing nuances in Cretaus' responses.

"If you don't see an opening, make one. You'll need to determine your opponent's ability early in the fight, the earlier the better."

Anaxagore did not change his testing approach as he tried to feel and determine what it was that Cretaus needed most in the moment, for come morning, the young human would be fighting for his very life as well as others.

"Your blocks and parries are stronger when you use both hands, they can leave your opponent open if you time it right." He instructed.

Right at that moment, Anaxagore performed a strong two-handed block, so Cretaus could feel the difference against his one handed blocks.

"It's slightly slower, so be smart on how you use it. The same is true when using a two-handed attack. It can power-through a one handed block when done correctly."

Here, Anaxagore simply stepped to the side to avoid and attack by Creatus without blocking it, just to see if he was paying attention and focusing on his actions, not simply zoning from one thing to the other while forgetting the 'situation' he was in. Should Cretaus lose his balance by over extending, Anaxagore would be sure to 'tap' him, to indicate that he'd left himself open and vulnerable to counter-attack.

"If you can land a two-handed strike with some success, we'll both sleep better tonight." The dark haired protector said half-joking, while still remaining alert to his young opponent. Even a novice, under the right conditions, could get a 'kill' in the field of combat. No opponent should be underestimated at any time. He'd lived through more than enough battles to know this to be true.

As Anaxagore spoke, telling him about how speed wasn't the only way, Cretaus subconsciously slowed down to listen. To make an opening? Sounded like common sense, but how would he got about finding out how to do that exactly?

That was when his instructor performed the two handed block to better demonstrate and Cretaus' eyes lit up a bit. He felt the weight behind it far more, his current strike stopped cold. There was barely any give to it by comparison. He almost hesitated at how it had thrown him off and though Anaxagore hadn't struck out at him then as a point-maker, which he was grateful, he learned. Cretaus felt how off-balance it had made him, especially since he hadn't expected it.

It made perfect sense too. Sounded so in words, but in actions the magnitude made itself truly known. Simple details. How to hold the blade, when. Feet placement. Simple details in something so intricate and deadly. It was fascinating in a way.

Correcting himself and speeding back up, though mentally sighing when he realized he had resorted to speed again, and his punishment for it was Anaxagore side-stepping and having him stumble forward with a loud exclamation coming from the teen at the movement.

'Tap'

Well, it didn't hurt too bad, but it smarted some. Grumbling, more at himself than anything, Cretaus shook his head and turned back to Anaxagore. After readying his position, he then quickly transitioned into a stronger two-handed strike to demonstrate he was indeed listening. There was no doubt this first strike would be blocked, so he tried to follow it up with his previous lighter strikes (more speed than strength again) to each side of Anaxagore's abdomen before suddenly darting forward in a thrust, then raising the sword up with a grunt and loud yell in a more powerful two-handed blow yet again.

Would he catch him off guard this time? There was doubt, but also hope!

The boy was indeed a quick study. Good. Learning quickly would keep him alive, Anaxagore mused soberly. The Ryujin Protector noted the changes in focus and additional input of strategy in Cretaus' attacks. Already this was a measured improvement from mere moments ago, when he'd first picked-up the bladed weapon. This was simply more evidence that proved Cretaus' worth as a natural warrior and protector. If he could teach him to be as effective a warrior as Rebecca, without the pitfalls of 'wanton need for slaughter', then everyone would benefit, especially Cretaus. Granted, Rebecca was under a blood-curse, but at least she had a reason. Anaxagore had seen too many sell swords who claimed to be 'addicted to killing'.

The dark haired Ryujin matched Cretaus' pace and speed, moving in tandem and keeping them both in melee range. Creatus' was well focused and that alone lent him efficiency, but the youth, through no fault of his own, was getting a bit ahead of himself. Anaxagore blocked and parried as expected, but Cretaus' intended 'coup de grace', Anaxagore moved his body to one side and blocked the upward stoke with the vambrace of his free arm, sparks flying as a result. Cretaus' form was correct, as he used a two-handed technique to deliver the blow.

Anaxagore tapped Cretaus' abdomen with his weapon, indicating that he'd just allowed himself to be gutted.

"No yelling before you strike." Anaxagore informed calmly. "At least not yet. You didn't have a clear advantage and simply gave yourself away. Or worse, called attention to yourself. Your enemy could have someone else rush in to assist him, or an archer could respond on his behalf. Save your victory yell for after battle, or as you make the kill, not before."

His words were not an admonishment, but simply the advise of an experience combatant.

"You are doing much better than I expected." Anaxagore intoned with a satisfied smile and a emotive nod of approval. "Good job Cretaus."

Disengaging, Anaxagore took a step back and offered the boy a curt bow.

"Go over what you've learned in your mind and how else you could improve or vary what you already know, while maintaining the basic form. Variations can keep someone from reading your moves too easily." Anaxagore said with a chuckle, feeling very much like old Master Namekian or even Swordmaster Nin.

"Come, let me restore some of your energy. Sit here by the fire and relax."

The one-second exhilaration of his end strike was just that...exhilarating! It felt, for a fleeting instant, that he would surprise the master he had attained. But that instant was just as instantly vanquished. Anaxagore blocked with his vambrace as he sidestepped. His weapon hand was free and there came the reality-reminding tap to his middle.

Right. He was still learning. Heck, this was the first session. So why did he think for even a moment that he might get him? With a huff, he lowered his weapon as he saw Anaxagore do the same. At his words, he almost winced. Of course he shouldn't yell. He should know that. It was always the quiet that survived in this world. The smart. The careful.

The observant.

"You're right," he muttered. Which of course he was. The guy was a ryujin of all things! Still, he looked up with some surprise at the praise that followed after the critique.

"I did ok?" he questioned wonderingly while offering the man back the weapon. It was his after all.

At the statement of variations, he just furrowed his brow in thought, trying to think of what he could do to do just that while 'maintaining the basic form.' As his mind went over the little puzzle, he moved after the man toward the fire and sat down as suggested, basking in its warmth with a little smile. Granted, he was fairly warm already...he was even sweating despite the snow!

But that wouldn't last long in this place.

A couple of questions sprang up as he looked over at Anaxagore, his first trainer. One came from what he just said, one from something said earlier.

"How are you going to restore my energy? And you mentioned about the weapons being made for your combat style..." he tilted his head quizzically, "Does that style have a name? I know a lot of warrior looking guys used to brag about knowing some style or another back in the taverns where I come from. Never really put much thought into it before."

Anaxagore could see by the boy's facial expression, that Cretaus was working things out in his mind. Good, meditation on the improving what he already learned would help his chances of survival in combat. Unsurprisingly, the boy also had many questions- but the best part, was that he was a good listener as well.

The Ryujin protector watched Cretaus sit as he was bidden.

"You need to learn the basics first..." Anaxagore responded, his voice tinged with a bit of amusement, "...before we can determine what 'style' best suits you."

The dark-haired warrior sat behind Cretaus and rubbed the palms of his hands together.

"I had to learn several styles before I figured out which one I liked best." He added with a soft chuckle. He didn't say that his longevity had a lot to do with why that was possible.

"You're going to feel some heat and a bit of tingling, just breathe and relax and let if flow through you."

With that said, Anaxagore's hands did glow for a brief moment, right before he placed his hands over Cretaus' heart and solar plexus chakra points along his back. Every first timer feels an unexpected 'soft jolt' as their energy points are engaged, which is quickly replaced by the sensation of a pleasant 'current'. Cretaus would be able to feel the energy begin to spread through his nervous system and then to the rest of his body, with each breath he took. The more relaxed he became, the 'easier' the energy would flow. In due time, Anaxagore would go on to explain the concepts of Chi and biorhythms, but now was not that time.

Perhaps as expected, Anaxagore also found little to no resistance from Cretaus, which indicated the boy's level of trust. Anaxagore did smile softly, as he imagined there would be genuine surprise and the attempt to understand the nature of the process, but the 'ease' of the connection would be there- for Anaxagore would not 'force' regeneration on an unwilling subject. In a way, Cretaus was experiencing secrets known to Ryujin, Masters and Sages alike. Indeed, he was no longer leading the life of a 'street urchin', he was on the path to becoming something far greater.

"Let the energy flow, it will reinvigorate you." Anaxagore said in a clam voice, just to assist in maintaining focus. The boy just needed a small charge of energy to be restored.

Listening to Anaxagore, Cretaus rubbed his arms absently. Partly from the cold creeping back in and partly because of the swinging exercises he had just done had made them surprisingly sore. He gave a quiet nod at the explanation of basics and that the ryujin had learned several techniques in his lifetime, making it hard to say one specifically.

Made sense, though he was curious what he 'liked best.' At the comments of heat and tingling, he raised his eyebrows. Just breathe and relax, huh? Hard to do when he had no idea what was coming.

Taking a deep breath, he allowed himself to relax as much as possible. Letting the tiredness of the hour and of the training to pour through him, letting that achieve the effect if nothing else. The sight of Anaxagore's hands glowing briefly did reach him, but the man moved behind him before he could get a good look. Then he felt the hands on his back.

He jumped a bit at the sensation he now felt. Heat and tingling, almost like a zap for a moment! Though it receded swiftly to be replaced by something far more soothing. Almost like laying in those soft blankets in the room earlier. That had been such a great moment! Much better than hard ground, that was for sure. Cretaus closed his eyes and just enjoyed the feeling as it flowed through him effortlessly at that point. Even before Anaxagore instructed him to do so, given that he was unused to such pleasant sensations. Naturally he would just absorb them readily!

"What exactly are you doing?" he asked quietly, his eyes still closed.

“I’m recharging your energy.” Anaxagore answered simply as he smiled.

“You feel tired when your energy reserves are low and must eat and sleep to regain it. As a Ryujin, I have an overabundance of energy, so I’m sharing some of what I have, so you’ll feel fully recharged when you wake in a few hours.”

The boy’s heart rate and breathing all checked out as normal, his internal prana, or chi network was clean and unobstructed. Cretaus was, in a word, healthy!

“I learned this and many other things at a monastery well over a century ago, maybe I’ll take you there one day.” Anaxagore added with an amused chuckle.

“Alright, we’re done here.” he said with almost clinical satisfaction, smoothly releasing the contact points, then slowly rising too his feet.

“Take a few centering breaths, then you can get up.”

With light steps, Anaxagore came around to face Cretaus one again, all the while trying to decide if there was anything else they boy might need to know before the upcoming battle. This wasn’t the ideal way to properly train a novice protector, but it was the ultimate crash course in survival. Either way, he could not be helped. One could only do their best under the circumstances.

“How are you feeling?”

Cretaus listened to Anaxagore's explanation and gave a soft, almost breathless laugh with the air expelled from the sound showing in the cold morning. The things these ryujin could do was nothing short of amazing!

"You can do that? I can't even imagine..."

He nodded at the mention of the monastery and rolled his shoulders, closing his eyes once more after the man finished his ability to recharge the student.

"Yeah, I'd like that," he replied while standing up after his breaths to face Anaxagore who had come in front of him. Cretaus gave a smile at his last question.

He was still a little tired, but nowhere near what he had been! He had said about getting up 'in a few hours', so he was allowing for a bit more sleep to take care of the rest evidently. Some of his muscles still felt like there was an afterglow of that energy charge still coursing within them, holding onto the last traces of it before they vanished completely.

"I feel good. Really good! ...Thank you. I guess we should get a little bit more sleep before we're up for good, now? Still pretty early. Unless there was something else, um, sir?"

The fact that Anaxagore was instructing Cretaus now made certain formalities seem to come to light. He should be more respectful in addressing him now, right?

"Sir?"

Anaxagore made a face, like he smelled something bad.

"I'm nowhere as old as Zalzabar!" He exclaimed with a laugh.

"Just Anaxagore will do, if you don't mind." He concluded, shaking his head in amusement.

"Let's go back inside. It will be light soon and we can both use what little rest we can still get."

With that, Anaxagore ushered Cretaus back to into the Inn. He imagined the boy would have to sneak back to his room as not to wake the others. He would have to do pretty much the same and pray he didn't wake Taella in the process, a task much easier said than done.

Oh, the joys of being an adventurer.

When Anaxagore made his face, Cretaus blanched. Had he said something wrong?

Despite the following reply, the laugh and easy nature allowed him to quickly relax with a sigh before devolving too far into paranoia of 'what have I done?' He was thankful for that. It was a habit he was rather tired of, to be honest.

Just Anaxagore then. He could do that, no problem!

"Ok!" Cretaus said with a slight smile. "Lets go and try not to wake the others."

He didn't realize he confirmed what his new trainer had guessed. Not that it would have been hard to deduce. And so, with much tip toeing and mental shushing at himself, Cretaus headed to his room with the others to get the last little bit of sleep before the day of battle was upon them.

His first training session at an end. But with much, much more to come!

***The Adventure Continues***​

 

Ne'tar
The Place, The Thing

Ne'tar tired, sit through all the talk talk. Then lady do red lightning trick and Ne'tar know Ne'tar not fast enough. Ne'tar race draw sword, raise in hurling grip - Ne'tar desperate. Then. . .then boom.

Woman arm on ground and woman upset. Ne'tar nod in understanding and shrug. Ne'tar would be upset if happen him, but it happen her. Ne'tar no mind that. Ne'tar know many words were give leader and they be kind conquerors. Empty oath. Bad deal. Ne'tar glad they no more consider it.

Then Ne'tar notice Blood Face go after Dark Elf man. Last brother. Ne'tar force self up, walk over and grab arm from ground. Ne'tar going to hand to her, but she already do. . .what she do. Dominous take like idiot to slaughter. Ne'tar shake head and shuffle over to boy, hold out arm. "Little one first limb! You want." he said with a toothy grin shoving it at the boy, it would make good travel food and the boy and well and good earned - at least Ne'tar think so. Ne'tar not really sure what happen, but Ne'tar fine with that.

TAG: @The Jedi in the Pumas @Darth_Elu @Ktala , @galactic-vagabond422 @greyjedi125 @Shadowsun

 

Chapter IV
Othos, the City of Kings
​

It would only take the group about two hours or so before they reached the grand capital of Athas. It would have taken far longer if it were not for the aid of Delsanra's horses and wagons. Once they made it over the initial hill that was blocking the view of Othos they would see it in the distance. A towering testament to the might of the Kingdom of Athas.

​

A great wall ringed around the city, with almost all the buildings enclosed within it. There were some farmlands outside the city walls, crops that likely supported the city but were clearly not its only source of food. What would also be noticeable would be the giant ballistae strew around the very outside of the city, Athas soldiers stationed at each of these, their eagle eyes watching the skies for any sign of dragons.

​

Before they came to the city gates, Taella called Zalzabar's attention, deftly coming off the wagon. She had been largely silent during the encounter with Bellus, the intense power that Cretaus wielded catching her off guard.

She gave a little bow to Zalzabar as she spoke.

"Forgive me, but if it is true that Haugun is going to attack Athas, and if they win, well..."

She trailed off, she could not help but think of her people, the Grand Forest of Loreth just sat south to Athas, it was not a leap to conclude that if Athas did indeed fall the forest would be next.

"Of course Taella, I understand, you need to warn your people, go and if our paths ever entwine again I will be glad to have you by outside. Take this with you."

He reached into his satchel retrieving a familiar-looking inhibitor orb.

"In case you run into any trouble, although I'm sure you can manage"

Zalzabar gave a little wink as he placed the orb into her delicate fingers. She gave a grateful nod, looking to the rest party giving, an almost apologetic look on her face as she mouthed goodbye. And then in the next moment, she was gone like the wild free spirit that she was.

At the city gates, they would be greeted by a tall, handsome man that appeared to be in his late thirties. He was bearded and strong, wearing traditional Atharain Armor, a massive bow was strapped to his back as he was accompanied by a few other soldiers, each carrying tall long spears.

​

"Lord Zalzabar it has been too long, please you look all so weary."

Zalzabar at this point had seemed to have externally recovered, those more magical would be able to sense it, and even those that weren't could probably still tell that Zalzabar was still not back at one hundred percent.

"Oh, it is wonderful to see you again Ajax! Or should I say, Commander Ajax! It seems like only yesterday that you were the same young lad, struggling to figure out how to use a bow and arrow, my my how times have changed. Yes you could say we are a tad bit weary, had some trouble with some goblins a while back and I have some rather urgent news for King Kenrinth, could you set up my fair companions here with some lodgings and the like"

Ajax gave a brief nod, the corners of his mouth forming a smile.

"Ceratinly Lord Zalzabar"

The wagons continued by, Ajax spotting Dominus giving him a quick salute which consisted of a fist over the heart, it would seem in whatever hierarchy of the military existed in Athas Dominus outranked this man. As the past threw the central street of Athas they would see the quiet hustle and bustle of the city dwellers, pointing slightly to them all, a mixture of surprise, interest, and concern over their faces. One such person in the crowd would be that of Arc. The hooded man carefully gripping a piece of paper, one that was clearly an invitation from Zalzabar. The man had likely traveled to Othos as a stopping-off point before traveling to Zalzabar's castle, not knowing that the building itself was destroyed, but now there would be no need it seemed, Zalzabar himself was traveling down the streets of Athas, surrounded by guards and a odd group of adventureres.

Another few minutes before they would stop outside a great building, one that if they had traveled to any of the major cities in Athas they would know was a grand bath house. Zalzabar would give them a nod informing them all that he would be speaking with King Kenrinth but for now, they should await here and recuperate, most of the party were in no condition to be speaking to a King.

Zalzabar then bid them farewell, giving a nod to them all before turning away. It would be Arc's decision if he should follow Zalzabar, the Lightning Ryujin, supposedly the greatest Ryujin of their age, or follow his group into the bathhouses.

Those particularly wounded, which at this point were Esenma and Anaxagore, were brought in stretchers carried by Atharian guards. As they came through the public bathhouse they would see all sorts of beings gathered, not just humans which made up most of Athas's population. There were wood elves, dark elves, orcs, dwarves, and even an Aviskin relaxing in the background. One of these people, a dark elf, would come to view the entering party who were being busy told about their rooms.

Sven Valenthyne would the dark elf's name in question, not that any of them would know that, or have reason to question it from him. With lute in hand he would be able to sense there was an air of wealth to them all. Particularly the human white noble clothing, the way he carried himself he particularly screamed nobility. Not only that but they were so obviously new to Othos, they were almost begging to be swindled, or so the thought would likely occur to Sven.

The first central room was simple enough lobby-like area tables were set out with various people sitting, drinking and laughing. A few odd glances would be cast towards the group but nothing major. Ajax lead them giving a nod to the human in a robe who would give a deep bow to their arrival.

​

"Greetings honored guests and welcome to the finest Bath House in all of Othos, allow me escort you all to your rooms"

The man gave a look to unconsciousness Esenma and Anaxagore.

"Oh dear, you there boy, why don't you stay with your Lords while we send for the healing mage, you are in luck he is fabled to be the greatest healer ever to have lived!" He had pointed a finger at Cretaus, mistaking him for a servant that traveled with the group. Rebecca too was still heavily injured from her little altercation with Dominus, the latter keeping a close eye on her all the way. After he gave the rest of them keys, this time a separate room for them all, Dominus would lead Rebecca off giving a nod to Ne'tar to come and heal her wounds, which would be in Rebecca's own designated quarters.

Delsanra and Kaynus who thanks to their Ryujin blood were all but healed at this point would just feel the wave of exhaustion blow over them both. Each of them had extended a great amount of magical energy, particularly Delsanra with keeping the manifestation of the horses and the wagon. They were given the opportunity to either seek out the Baths that the owner had eagerly explained about, or they could, no the notion was silly as if Kaynus and Delsanra would actually strike up a conversation. Perhaps they would be interrupted before they would be able to make a decision, the eagle-eyed Sven just a few meters away cluttered about in the crowd.

Food was likely something on everyone's minds and in each of the groups that had been carted off, they would find food waiting for them. An assortment of fruit, cured meats, and cheeses.

TAG: @Ktala @Darth_Elu (Kaynus) @Narancia (Welcome!) (See OOC thread before posting)

@galactic-vagabond422 @Mitth_Fisto (See OOC thread before posting)

@Sinrebirth (Welcome!) (See OOC thread before posting)

---

Cretaus would follow the bodies of Esenma and Anaxagore be carried to a large room with four or five so empty beds where they would be placed down. The soldiers that had brought them there not giving much notice, as a tall well-built man entered the room, a smile flashed over his eyes. He was handsome and his skin dark, his robes not like those of others Cretaus had seen.

He held out a hand in greeting a kind expression on his face as he spoke to the boy.

​

"Well, well Cretaus I have been waiting a long time to meet you. I do hope your travels were not too strenuous"

TAG: @Darth_Elu (Cretaus) (Combo) @greyjedi125 @The Jedi in the Pumas

---

​

As Anaxagore lay asleep during the journey his mind would wander. His mind wandering from dream to dream an unending cascade of thought as he underwent the same natural sleep cycle he had experienced since birth. However, there was a small pinprick of fire. It was dwelling in the back of his mind, growing, growing, growing... It was hungry, nay ravenous. The undeniable aura of a being that wanted to consume all things.

An image then appeared in Anaxagore's mind's eye, one very similar to the one he had felt before when linked with Zikki, and yet... different. His features hidden like before, his stature looming over the Protector of Regnum. Fire could be seen in every direction, stretching as far as the eye could see, if Anaxagore tried to call upon on his magic he would feel nothing. Nothing but the void.

​

"So you have defeated my Son."

There was no mistaking it, it was the same voice from before. Deep, dark, meancing. His words like knives, cutting through the flesh of Anaxagore.

"Listen well my descendent. I pity that you think your latest battle was a struggle, for the challenges ahead are beyond what you can comprehend. But allow me to give you a gift. For we now share a special bond, Son of Argentum. One that transcends the binding of man."

The figure paused bending down his face mere inches from Anaxagore's and yet still his face was covered in a dark shadow, impossible to discern any facial features.

"What say you Protector of Aequus, will you allow me to aid you? Gift you power beyond what any mortal could dream of?"

TAG: @greyjedi125 (Combo)

 

Rebecca Dragon
Othos

With her blood cooled the pain rushed in. The fire of her veins prevented her from feeling all the damage she'd taken. Both from the goblins and Dominus. Sat on a bench in the wagon she looked down at the forms of Ensema and Axagaore. They were injured, out of the fight for a bit. Every rattle and bump sent pain through her, the broken rib sent anguish through her with every breath. Her darkened armor dripped with goblin ichor, her own cursed blood slipping between the gaps in her armor. It was only her own will keeping her face from showing the pain she was in.

Pain was good, pain meant you were alive, meant you survived. The fact you bled meant you had more blood to give, the pain was a reminder of your fight, where you failed to defend, where your opponent was stronger. It also told you what side to avoid using. Though it was hard to find any part of her that didn't hurt.

But this was a mercenaries life, pain and blood. She accepted it long ago, no one would hear any complaint from her. Even if it felt like her whole body was a bruise.

The ride to Othos was a calm one, as they passed by Baliste Rebecca could feel a slight smile on her face. Dragons were not invincible a strong enough force could make them tremble. This mission had given her a close up look at just how...mortal they were. Already she could feel gears turning in her mind...something to remember for when this mission was over. They were powerful but could be worn down. Case them, like wolves on an elk. Attack, fade, chase, attack again. Their reserves were not unlimited.

It wasn't like she had much else to consider. It was a long ride and there wasn't much to entertain her mind with. Though the Kid seemed to comport himself well, finding a new well of power within him. That was good and all, though it raised the question of where it came from, and if he was another of those Dragons. If he was that would leave just her and Bright Eyes as the only non-Ryujins left in the group.

A slight feeling of not belonging fell over her. These were Dragons, wielders of great and terrible power. Though here she was, cursed blood riding with them. She wasn't about to turn down a pay day but, she couldn't help but feel a little superfluous. There's a big word for her, not sure where she learned it though.

It wasn't as though she hadn't had these feelings before. She'd never met someone with her curse. Being surrounded by others whose blood didn't burn like hers. Cool blooded men and women that equal parts stood in awe and terror of her power. She had always been an outcast. She grew up isolated, far out in the woods raised and trained to be a warrior.

It just felt different being around those undoubtedly more powerful than oneself.

As they approached the town she witnessed Bright Eyes heading off, rushing to warn her people…

And then there was one. The solitary cursed blood in a group of blessed protectors.

As she closed her eyes she saw another set staring back at her. The bloodshot crimson eyes of Roger. He shared her curse, he was the only other man in the world that could know this life. Though after that introduction she doubted she could ever see herself sitting down and talking with him. Their discussions would be held at the edge of a sword, not across a dinner table.

Was that what was in store for her? That eventually she would give in to her blood, become a monster sowing death across the land...Wasn't that what she already was? Did she not just hide behind her contracts, and mercenary demeanor? She had long ago accepted that she was a monster, but she had kept herself from being consumed.

It was her final promise to her father.

But for how long could she keep that promise?

They entered the city and it all looked rather grandiose, though it wasn't the first time she'd seen Othos. It was all clean and marble, their noses high in the air. They were greeted by a captain that Rebecca never caught the name of, not that she cared. Given an escort they were brought to the bath house, which seemed to also act as an inn. Getting out of the wagon she noted Dominus standing by the exit. With a grunt she dropped from the back she turned away a long groan leaving her. Over her shoulder Dominus followed not too close but clearly keeping an eye on her.

She didn't know why, she was the picture of health, what with her swollen cheek, limp sagging arm and clear limp. She was perfectly fine.

As they walked to the rooms Dominus came to her side. Gently but with more force than she was expecting she pushed him away.

"I don't need to be coddled…" she growled opening the door and barging her way in.

TAG: @Shadowsun @Mitth_Fisto @Sinrebirth @Narancia

 

Here's a combo with @Shadowsun being a Tricksy Hobbitzes just like his Master! Hope you enjoy!

---

IC: Anaxagore
Dark Principalities

He would not see them as they finally arrived at Othos, nor would he see the City Walls, nor the Giant Ballista, standing as manifestations of the inherent human fear of Ryujin. He would not get ti meet Commander Ajax, or use his keen senses to glean eyes which furtively studied the group.

Anaxagore remained unconscious as his depleted body tried its best to stitch itself together. Whatever pain he would feel from the bumpy ride in the wagon, his mind would relegate it to his dreams.

The dark haired ryujin would not know of the bath house the group was offered to convalesce in, nor which room he was laid in, or that the others were slowly separating by circumstance, Cretaus included.

The only thing Anaxagore would be aware of, was the fact that he was, in his mind, surrounded by fire, hungry, ravenous fire.

An image then appeared in Anaxagore's mind's eye, one very similar to the one he had felt before when linked with Zikki, and yet... different. The features were hidden like before, the image’s stature loomed over the Protector of Regnum. Fire could be seen in every direction, stretching as far as the eye could see. Anaxagore tried to wake himself up. It was a simple act of will he could perform very easily, at any time…until now.

Try as he might, nothing happened. The image and the flames remained.

"So you have defeated my Son."

There was no mistaking it, it was the same voice from before. Deep, dark, menacing. Words like knives, cutting through Anaxagore’s flesh.

Anaxagore felt that he could not move a muscle. He was effectively paralyzed for the moment. However, he found that he could speak.

“Sapientis!” He hissed. It was an accusation.

"Listen well my descendent. I pity that you think your latest battle was a struggle, for the challenges ahead are beyond what you can comprehend. But allow me to give you a gift. For we now share a special bond, Son of Argentum. One that transcends the binding of man."

The figure paused bending down his face mere inches from Anaxagore's and yet still his face was covered in a dark shadow, impossible to discern any facial features.

"What say you Protector of Aequus, will you allow me to aid you? Gift you power beyond what any mortal could dream of?"

Try as he might, Anaxagore could not discern the being's face, but the shape - he recognized that form. What in…..? No, he could not, would not let himself become distracted.

“A Gift? From you?” Anaxagore scoffed with a palpable measure of incredulity and disgust. “Never!” He declared, rejecting the offer with as much emphasis as he could muster.

“The power to destroy requires no skill.” Anaxagore went on, quoting one of his two greatest masters.

“True Power is measured in self-control and discipline during critical moments. True Power is knowing when to and when not to use said power. We are not defined simply by having power, but in how we use it. When we act in the best interest of someone other than ourselves.”

Anaxagore stared into the blackness, his bearing defiant and unflinching.

“I’m not interested in your…Gift.”

The Protector’s head rose slightly now. Sapientis had revealed something he had always suspected, but was unable to confirm- until now.

“As a Son of Argentum, I hereby decline your offer.”

Only after a pause, did an impish smirk come to the Ryujin's youthful face.

"Besides, if you wanted to seduce me..." Anaxagore gave 'Sapientis' a once over. "...well, you definitely guessed wrong...! Nya!"

The dark figure remained stationary, looming quietly as he listened to Anaxagore's words. A deep, dark chuckle vibrated throughout the dark space upon hearing Anaxagore's reply.

"Oh, you think I am Sapientis? Well I suppose there is truth in that, a half-truth as it were. But no Sapientis is far stronger than I"

The figure chuckled as its legs trailed off the figure coiling around Anaxagore like a snake, the bottom half it almost like a dark wind while his top half still resembled a man.

"You are not wrong Son of Argentum, I would make no statement against it, power should only be wielded by those that have the Strength of Will, the discipline as you call it to carry it forth"

The figure then zoomed past him, reforming into his original shape as a conjured an image of a very familiar-looking temple. None other than the dragon monastery Anaxagore had trained in.

"I only offer power to those that deserve it, you are one such being. You have so much potential the power you have unlocked, is far more ancient and deep than you can possibly imagine. I can show you how to bring it to its frustration, to unlock the power of the gods"

Another dark chuckle as a dark cloud came around Anaxagore, forcing him into a seat as he was brought closer to view the image.

"Surely you want to save those that you care for?"

They would both view the destruction of the monastery, not by Fire or Ice, but by creatures, twisted and perverted their form of red and white.

"As one Protector of Aequus to another, you should at least hear what I have to say?"

Anaxagore held his tongue- wisely so. His Masters had also instructed him to listen clearly when the encounter was set in the arena of words. Much could be learned, only if one took the time to listen.

"So, you are not Sapientis?" Anaxagore asked, but he was mostly reflecting.

"Then who exactly are you?" He inquired carefully.

"You did say Ziki was your son." The young Ryujin reminded.

"Still, I will listen to your words, that's the least I can do."

A small nod is given, before the protector grows quiet once again.

Anaxagore was far more interested on how he could better safeguard the realm and those who dwelt upon her, more than the acquisition of power itself. He only needed to think of Malum Dragonson as an example of exactly what he did not wish to become.

"Who am I?" inquired the dark being. A bright flash of fire, bursting from him as he proclaimed himself. The Power washing over Anaxagore, it made Zikki seem like Cretaus. Well, Cretaus before his recent discovery of power. As the power roiled so too came the words of might with it.

I am Ignis of the Eternal Flame
The Primordial Human
First Son of Argentum
Father to all Men
Heir to the Two
and First Protector of Aequus
​

His form then shifted, become what appeared to be flesh and blood, it was the same figure that Anaxagore had seen the first time but now in all detail no longer shrouded in fire.



The power from him then settled down, swirling quietly around him as he gazed deep into Anaxagore.

"You know so little, so many lies have plagued your mind, chief of all is your heritage. You are no creation of the Three, nay you, like all of man, were created to oppose them"

Anaxagore shook his head at the display of power, impressive as it was, quite so. This being was clearly an immortal, and had the trademark long raven hair that he did. Had this occurred over a century ago, before the Monastery, perhaps he would have been an easier target, but now his Masters and his experiences were with him, not to mention his upbringing.

"If you are truly Ignis, then you are part of Sapientis. You are part of the problem." Anaxagore countered.

"If you are the first scion of Argentum as you claim and I'm of your bloodline, then...then...By the Three...!!!" Anaxagore exclaimed.

"Wait...You're in rebellion against your progenitor!" He said in sudden realization.

"How do you even reconcile being the 'primordial' human and enslaving humanity as the First son Argentum, a Ryujin? Madness! it's all madness."

Admittedly, this was all a bit much. History had never been his strong suit, but he certainly knew enough.

Oncer again, Anaxagore attempted to wake himself up, but to no avail. His unconscious physical body merely grunted and frowned where it lay, that being the only outward sign that he was having a 'bad dream'.

"Lord Zalzabar will help me unlock my Elder Form, you'll see. I will owe you nothing. I will not trade my soul for power, or the future of Regnum for a trick. We will find a way to defeat the Throne of the North, or die trying."

Ignis's eyes sat in quiet anger, his eyes closed as if in pain from the words Anaxagore spoke.

"And I ask you this Son of Argentum, where have you heard these things, who has told you I wish to enslave humanity?"

Fire danced in the man's eyes as he gripped his staff, leaning in closer to Anaxagore, a faint warm smile parsed on his lips.

"The Victors write history, and they spindle their lies, their lies of what once was, of what could be. What is this problem you speak of? One told to you through the ages by my very enemy, you truly believe their account is not biased, not tainted by their own deception"

He scoffed slightly a thought coming to his mind. He did not wait for Anaxagore to respond, just merely continuing to speak

"Ah the Elder Form, how quaint, how cute... you possess a power far greater than that of the Elder Form, in fact, you have accessed it already, thinking it weaker than your current state. What I offer is no mere trick young one, it is not some easy pathway to power, but one that is the power of the very gods themselves"

A smile spread across his face, a certain eagerness in his eyes.

"Although I cannot blame you, you have so much to learn, so much has been hidden and lost, powers and deities beyond your comprehension. Why you do not even know who Argentum is, the creator of Man. You are not ready, not yet."

He pointed a finger into Anaxagore's chest, it passed through him as he did so. A sensation of pure heat and power. It was like everything his Fire Nature wanted to be as if this was the source of that power.

"I offer you guidance to unlock your Ancient Form"

The sensation was unlike anything Anaxagore had ever felt in his 200 years of life. It was even beyond his own ability to fully comprehend. His eyes grew wide, even as he took in a sharp breath. His body was unsure how to respond to the stimulus, except to inform him that is was leagues above the euphoria of Full Ryujin Transformation.

Ignis was right. He wasn't ready and He was biased, but he trusted his sources to tell him the objective truth. But right now, there was no one else with him to offer succor, just himself and the entity.

Having to work to achieve a specific goal was more in keeping with Anaxagore's own personal ethics. Those who were simply given great power, always tended to abuse it, especially that which they did not earn. Anaxagore always preferred doing the work. Always.

Still, a curious thought crossed his mind. His former Masters had told him many times in the past, that during his journey, specifically as a Ryujin, he would be faced with unique opportunities from which to learn. In the end, it would up to him on how the knowledge gained was used, that is, if he was willing to be taught.

This was such an occasion.

'How come those two are always right about these things...' Anaxagore pouted internally, before returning his full attention to the being before him.

"I'm not big on history, mainly because I wasn't there." The Protector began to say. "I've vowed to protect Regnum, and that's what I will do!" he insisted. "But I agree, I have much to learn still...."

A sigh escaped the young Ryujin's lips.

"I'm not selling my soul to you, so let's get that straight. I'm willing to learn, to be guided, but the moment I sense anything suspicious, the deal is off....."

Anaxagore shook his head, in disbelief of his own self.

'By the Three! What am I doing?'

"So, deal or no deal...?" He said finally, his expression set in a mask of stoic composure.

A smile grew on Ignis's face as he withdrew his finger.

"Regnum... yes I suppose that is what it is known as now."

He gave a nod of his head, a thin satisfied smile plastered on his face.

"Rest assured I have no interest in your soul."

The Ancient being giving a nod of his head as he began to be swallowed by darkness.

"Know this Anaxagore if you speak of our meeting to anyone our deal is over."

A pregnant pause as the darkness came up to his face, hanging for a moment as he bid his final goodbye.

"I shall be waiting Son of Argentum, in time we will meet again when the moment is right, but for now...

...

Survive"

A dark foreboding laughter echoed as the being then disappeared, Anaxagore left in the blank dark void, his mind ready to be awoken.

----

Secrets.

Somehow, he knew there would be a catch.

Anaxagore hated keeping secrets. Still, a kind of key had also been given in the same breath.

All he had to do was speak of their meeting, at the right time.

Hmmm......

Still, he had new information to research before the next meeting, whenever that was.

As he pondered these thoughts, blissful darkness engulfed the Protector's consciousness, lulling him into a state of sleep. In the physical world, Anaxagore's eyes fluttered open, the memory of the meeting seeming more like a strange dream at the moment. Slowly, did he rise to a sitting position, his eyes not recognizing where he was, thereby extending his feeling of disorientation.

"Hello...?" he croaked out, but was surprised by the strength in his voice and the fact that he felt a lot more healed than he really should be, especially after that titanic battle against King Ziki.

Had Taella laid her healing hands on him while he was out of commission? Unlikely, for he recalled she had ran out of healing herbs at Zalzabar's Zpa.

Hmmmm. How very curious. These were strange times indeed.


Tag: @Shadowsun *( for story: @Darth_Elu, @galactic-vagabond422, @Ktala, @Mitth_Fisto, @Narancia, @Sinrebirth , @The Jedi in the Pumas )

 

OOC: Sorry for the delay in posting this combo, O Great GM! And now, going back in time ( ) a bit to show the finale to the Chapter III Scene.

Cretaus & Zalzabar IC:
~Coming to Terms~

Cretaus' eyes continued to smolder in defiance as they stared straight at the intimidating form of Bellus. In another time, at another place, he would likely not act so. But too many things had layered upon one another and given rise to this astoundingly bold act on his part.

And now as she smirked and raised her fingers, what was about to happen was what he had known was going to happen. Yet he just couldn't stop himself could he?

"Oh I'll be along my way once this I teach this little runt a lesson."

What an idiot he was! How could he have done such a thing, knowing he was going to get fried like a nobleman's chicken dinner for it anyway? If Dominus had been struck down so effortlessly, how was he to survive such a thing!?

The red lightning began to leap from her fingers, that elitist smirk upon her lips. As fair as the woman was, he hadn't seen anyone quite so ugly in his life. That frustration continued to build, it wouldn't let go, he didn't care that he was about to get hit. SO BE IT!

If he survived, then one day after all his training, he would remember this moment. And SHE WOULD BE SORRY!

He vowed it! A horrible person like this deserved nothing by justice! And if no one else could do it, then one day, he would.

It was at this precise moment when he felt his anger seemed to explode into energy. Like something deep, deep, deep within him just -- unlocked. No other way to describe it. A dam had been breached. A flood, a storm, an ocean that ebbed and flowed with power unrestrained was inside him. It had become him!

Just what...what was this feeling!?

His eyes widened at the sensation as well as the lightning coming toward him...slowly?...and his last sentence seemed to repeat, reverberate, and echo into the still air. It kept going and going and going, lasting forever stacked upon an eternity, set upon an infinity. It would never end!

But then it did. For he saw and heard something else within his mind, which by far overpowered what he was seeing with his true eyes. A dragon's face was before him. No....This was not just any dragon. No. He was one of THE Dragons!

How did he know this? He didn't...it was instinctual. In his blood. No. Deeper than blood. It was branded into his soul in such an entangled way, there was no word that yet existed that could describe this level of intrinsic knowledge and state of pure existence.

Destiny was the closest he could come to.

He could only gape inwardly at Lord Tellus himself coming to him. Hadn't they disappeared? Why did he appear now? To....to....to him of all people!

"Cretaus you have suffered much in your life, and in all times I have been watching."

Watching...? Waiting...? The teenager now lost himself in this ageless eon, Wondering...

"It was I that ensured you find that invitation dropped by the Knight in South Ossatia."

One of The Almighty Three, Crafters of the World, Blessers of the Ryujin, Protectors of All...

"It was I that brought the ship for you to board upon to sail for Loreth."

He a Teenager of No Repute, Orphaned to any family, Forgotten by every citizen, Lost to his own self...

"It was I that when your satchel was lost ensured your map remained safe."

Bound inexplicably together in the Dance of Concentric Fate long since in the making...?

"It was I that kept protected you from the Wood Elves as you traveled through the outskirts of Loreth."

The God's protection ever firmly guiding, holding, leading....

"It was I that kept you warm while you transversed the cold, harsh mountains of Athas."

The Boy's unwitting, eager soul excitingly entranced onto the forward path. Imprinting, imagining, illuminating...

"I have watched over you Child of Argentum for that is all I am bound to do, but now I impart my final gift to you. Your vow affirming what I have always known Cretaus."

The God, now given leave, stretches out his clawed hand. The Boy, now amazed beyond all measure, reaches with cupped hands. Ready...

"You, along with all those that travel with Zalzabar, shall bring forth the defeat of Sapientis."

Absolution. Conviction. Resolution. The fire within kindled anew, a new power rising, the hands of Destiny's Clock lurching forward at last with those two simple sounds, so wondrously silent. So powerfully and harmoniously loud...

"I, Tellus, Lord of Time, bestow this final gift unto you oh magicless child. With it may you bend Time itself to your Will."

Tick...

"Heed my words carefully child for in the city of Othos you will meet with one named Tempus Aeterna, he will teach you to control this power, and guide you all to the Eyes of the Three."

Tock...

"Remain hopeful Son of Argentum, for only with hope will you all defeat Sapientis."

And in his heart, Fate began to churn.

Eternity ended within as it exploded without. Deep, ancient magic. His will was the will of Regnum in that moment. In that instant, with Tellus' voice still remembered in his ears; His Will was the the Will of The Three!

His eyes hardened further. A flash of righteous fury emanating, warping everything around them. His teeth gritted. They felt like fangs. His fists tightened. They felt like the tectonic plates he knew nothing about crunching together with all the power and purpose they moved with. His muscles tensed. They felt like the fire and lava racing through all the magma tunnels of the volcanoes of the world.

His words echoed once more and the air carried them with the warning of a coming tempest, a frenzy of rage and purity.

The Three, Regnum, and Cretaus were one. And One had they become.

It mattered not where Bellus Dragonson stood. She was within their creation. She was upon his surface. She was in his gaze.

No matter where she had been, she was in range.

Everything stopped. They all froze. It all froze. Except for him. He looked about, marveling in that instant carried out just for him. All of them watching them. Except for Esenma and Kaynus who seemed to slumber partially, only half aware.

Except for Anaxagore who was running toward him, hand outstretched in vain. In attempt, but never purpose.

Yes. A time outside of time, his eyes turning back in remembrance to the one who had earned this retribution from him. Time...yes.

It was time.

And yet, that was when he felt the pull on his energy. The drain...it was immense! That connection...that convergence...it was slipping! Falling, fading....!

Another mental flash and everything resumed. That feeling was lost, only a whisper in his heart. And the evil woman's arm was upon the plains, her attack uselessly flying upward into the sky. Oh how he wished he could remember what he did.

But it was something he had done...He. Cretaus.

"You... y-you... brat! W-what the hell are you?"

As she staggered back, he would only smile. It was born of that fatigue and a disguise over his own puzzlement, bubbling up again. A return to mortality. A return to himself.

She teleported immediately. She had been afraid. Of him.

With a huff, he sat down on his haunches, his whole body wanting to go slack though he resisted. Too many of them were already falling all over the place. He could not become another. Not yet.

Zalzabar slowly sat up in his peripheral and stared at him. He would too in his shoes.

"Cretaus...what did you do?"

A question whose answer would transcend all expectations. He just looked over at the Elder Ryujin just as slowly, a careful and confused smile still on his face. He wasn't sure if he should laugh or cry.

"Could...could you hand me that Nature Stone for a moment...please?"

He did not hear Esenma's quietly whispered words at this time, but he felt them in his core. How could he not? For the World had changed Him. Cretaus could only now return the favor.

Rebecca was stomping over and Cretaus watched, his old demeanor coming back to him as his eyes widened at the sight. Dominus stood dutifully and created his clone, placing it in the way of the Laughing Butcher's warpath. Creating a bloody spectacle to quell the monster lurking just under her surface.

He waited for Zalzabar while staring at the now prone form of Rebecca and the true Dominus even closer to him. Couldn't there have been another way? Was she truly lost to that rage? Maybe there was an answer to be discovered there. Yes.

If he just had...

Time.

The expression of disbelief remained on Zalzabar's face. He could not believe this. Cretaus did not know this but Zalzabar's greatest shock was not that he had not seen this magic before, but because he had. Only once before.

"S-sure," he stammered in continued bewilderment, reaching into his satchel, that by some miracle by the Three he had not lost, and slowing drew out the nature stone, carefully placing it into Cretaus' hands.

With bated breath he waited to see if his suspicions were confirmed if this truly what he thought it was.

As the Nature Stone plopped into Cretaus' hand, the boy gulped softly. Before he could properly focus on it however, the demand from Kaynus over what happened came through.

The teen's eyes darted between the stone, Zalzabar, and Kaynus for a few seconds before he just...didn't reply. That was likely to irk the pompous noble, but he just needed to focus for a moment. And he wasn't quite sure what to say or to whom just yet.

Focusing just lightly on the stone and doing what had been described what felt like ages ago (Had it truly just been yesterday?), he watched as the object finally reacted.

It shook at first and then morphed. It twisted and bent, smoothing out in the right places, turning in others. Until in his hand was something he had only ever seen in certain shops in the past, but he knew what it was.

The Nature Stone had turned into an hourglass. How was that not a sign?

His eyes timidly looked up at Zalzabar, his voice so low that only Zalzabar and likely Dominus could hear. He wasn't sure if he wanted Rebecca or Delsanra to know just yet.

"...Apparently...I can control....time?"

Zalzabar's eyes grew wide as if they were about to pop out of his skull. He then grabbed Cretaus and shook him, looking directly into his eyes.

"What did he say Cretaus, what did Lord Tellus say?"

His suspicions had been confirmed, he knew exactly what this power was, and the implications laid within, more than Cretaus could possibly know. When he first met Cretaus he had a sense that there was something special about the boy, a magicless human teen does not just wander up to Zalzabar's castle by himself.

But for him to have the Nature of Time.

This was beyond his wildest expectations.

Cretaus tried not to succumb to the fatigue his body was feeling from the magic while being shaken by the elder ryujin. At his demands, he blinked at him in surprise.

"H-How did you know Lord Tellus spoke to me...? Does that happen all the time when people get magic?"

Honestly, the Dragon God had said a lot to him and that was a vast understatement. Where did he even begin?

"He said he had been watching and protecting me, my whole life...?"

That was a start. He wondered how Zalzabar would react, but then, perhaps this was actually a normal occurrence. But then, why was he shaking him like this?

Zalzabar's eyes blinked, becoming more to grips with the situation. Of course, the boy has had no education, he does not know what to expect for those that have magic normally let along a nature such as his.

"No Cretaus, speaking with Lord Tellus does not happen for the vast majority of magic users. I have only known one other that has met him. Now tell me my boy, is that all he said?"

He was looking directly to the boy, ignoring completely the fight that had ensued between Rebecca and Dominus. Ignoring the demands of Kaynus.

Kaynus was busy folding his arms and glaring in their direction, as Cretaus stared back at Zalzabar.

"Only one...?" he whispered before shaking his head and remembering the question posted to him. He wracked his memory, which was not hard given its very vivid imagery and recent happening.

"Um, he said this was his final gift to me...and said that those who travel with you shall defeat Sapientis," a pause and then a hasty addendum, "If we all have hope! He made sure to say that. Uh...uh...Oh, This one other..."

His brows raised as he looked searcingly at the elder's face. "Is it Tempus..A....Aet...Aeterna! Yeah. Tempus Aeterna? I'm supposed to search him out to train me. He's also going to lead us to..."

Cretaus scrunched up his face, "Something about the Eyes? The Eyes of the Three?"

Zalzabar buried his face in his hands. Any doubt in his mind that Cretaus had met Tellus was gone. For him to know that name. It confirmed it. The term Eyes of the Three was new to Zalzabar however, something he felt he would find out soon enough.

With a deep exhale he looked down to Cretaus.

"Good, very good Cretaus. You are one very special, and very lucky kid."

He gave a wink before turning to Delsanra indicating for her to go ahead and summon the horses and wagon.

Cretaus' eyebrow rose as he watched Zalzabar's reaction. Why was he acting like that? He was truly confused, just watching the man and waiting to see what came of it. At his words, Cretaus allowed a slow, half-smile to appear on his face. A slight blush, unused to such comments, creeping onto his cheeks as well.

He turned his face away, staring off at nothing in particular and just responding with some nervous chuckling. "...I am?"

He did just speak to a God after all and evidently unleashed some kind of awesome magic for the first time ever...hey. Maybe he really was!?

The thought was more magical than any power that he might have wielded minutes ago. It was also one that was going to take some getting used to.

Getting up with a little effort, he made to see if he could be of any help in getting everyone moving again.

Tag: Dominus, Kaynus, Delsanra, Rebecca, Esenma, Ne'tar, & Anaxagore @Shadowsun @Ktala @galactic-vagabond422 @The Jedi in the Pumas @Mitth_Fisto @greyjedi125 For Narrative Purposes: @Master Vo'Un'Var

 

OOC: My last post got sent to the shadow realm. I'm here to try again.

IC: Sven Valenthyne

Sven watched the precession of Zalzabar's group paddling their way through the streets of Othos. Everyone within that group looked like a cavalcade of suckers. There was a few that Sven recognized,

Dominus - a high-ranking officer within Athas Military, very stern and loyal to Zalzabar and potentially the biggest threat out of everyone here to Sven's goals seeing as he might try to eliminate the Dark Elf.

That would suck big time, Sven thought to himself, but oh well, he's been in worse situations.

Zalzabar - Many people knew Zalzabar, but not many, including Sven, knew what he was doing with the group; it didn't matter, though, Sven was here to get paid.

Sven then spotted a muscular woman who was beaten up and bruised, he didn't know her name, but he liked what he saw, bruises and all! The battered and mysterious warrior woman was definitely a type Sven had developed an appreciation for his time in the spire.

Everyone else was almost beneath notice; for now, he'll get to know them properly soon enough. Around Sven at the precession were his followers from the Sparrows guild, an order of merchants who really were spies, thieves, and assassins. Currently, there were only four at this event; everyone else was away. From what Sven noticed, and he soon whistled an unorthodox way.

A signal.

Fhup, Fhup Fhup! FHUUUUUP!

The followers looked around the gathering crowd and located their leader, eventually gathering around him.

Sven turned to one of his followers,

"There's some serious cash to be made here, all we need to do is follow them and rid of the annoying people, and we'll soon have a gigantic payday."

Sven's followers looked on nervously, "How do you plan to do this, boss? I don't see this working."

Sven gave a hearty laugh that would've stuck out to anyone in attendance. "I'm Sven! The survivor of the spire, of course, it'll work. Do you doubt me?!"

Sven raised his eyebrow and reached for his flute. The outspoken follower got nervous and stammered-

"N-no, sir! I just wanted to confirm our plans."

Sven smiled,

"HA! You should've seen the look on your face. Relax, I'm screwing with you."

The outspoken follower nervously laughed,

"Y-yeah, you really got me there, sir. Heh."

"Now come, I have a plan for you."

Sven noticed some fruits one of his followers was selling from the stand and grabbed a few grapes and started eating them.

"I'm going to cause a distraction, and you guys infiltrate the Bathhouse." Sven was loudly and purposefully smacking his lips and eating obnoxiously.

"You guys just don't do anything until I give the signal."

"What is the signal, and how do you know they're going to the bathhouse?" Asked another follower.

"I literally saw them dummy; good question on the signal, though." Sven answered and pondered, " Okay, as for the signal, I'll moo, and you guys will start chanting my name. That'll really impress Zalzabar. He'll have no choice to accept us when he realizes we infiltrated the city guards protecting the Bathhouse. Now let's go do this thing!"

As planned, Sven tailed the group into a great bathhouse, confirming his hunch. Sven moved to enter the Bathouse in an obvious and dramatic way, strumming on his lute and preparing his flute!

"Hello, all! I am Sven, who is an elf way superior to mere men. Allow me to spin you a tale; it's not for those who are frail. I will play a song, and you're free to sing along. But I must warn you sheep; this tune will put you to sleep."

Sven imbued his magic to the lute as he played the song, intending to put everyone except Zalzabar's group and his Sparrows to slumber.

TAG: @Darth_Elu @greyjedi125 @galactic-vagabond422 @Ktala @Master Vo'Un'Var @The Jedi in the Pumas @Shadowsun @Sinrebirth