@King Atlas@Monochromatic@Narcotic Dollie

Angelo smiled as waited till his song was finished before responding to the vampire with the helmet he saw earlier. evidently his name was Todd and he was a bodyguard for hire. Having him around would be useful if he wanted to tour more of the border towns like this one to play his music, especially in place much less hospitable then this place that acknowledged his presence around children. When he was done being fascinating to the alchemist Angelo smiled and shook his hand but not getting up still not comfortable getting out his children safe zone. Angelo Ortega nice to meet you. after a firm shake Angelo took his hand back so what do you cost to protect me? im a musician and I don't have a lot of money although im sure you would find a use for some feathers like that woman. evidently my wings are valuable here Angelo said with a laugh not really thinking that his feathers were valuable here

It seems that a large bar was the first to cross Don's path. He didn't have to go all the way to the center of the dark side just to snag a drink after all. Don entered the bar not wasting a second to sit in a stool and order himself a drink. He can handle most of the beers on the menu by now so anything was fine with him. Don spun around on the stool and eyed the bar. The people in there looked like your average drunk or tough guy maybe a lesbian somewhere in there, anyways Don believed he crossed eyes with a hooker. At first he continued on looking at everyone in the bar but quickly spun the stool around to have his back towards the people. The chick he crossed eyes with was headed his way.

She sat next to him not even attempting to hide her seductiveness. The bartender happened to come back with Don's drink and noticed the lady. "Will the Miss-" The bartender was gonna ask but was stopped by Don quickly responding with a "No." As the tender left the girl smiled and looked Don up and down as he sipped his beer. "There's rooms here..." She reached for his left hand. Don continued to drink his beer and looked at her. He opened his palm and his scythe appeared next to him leaning forward on the counter. "...is that suppose to make me want to do you or something...?" He responded drinking his beer and holding his scythe in the right hand.

The woman just looked at him puzzled. It seems she doesn't know what type of magic Don used to summon the scythe. That was unfortunate for her... "I...well...that's...usually how it goes..." She was starting to feel uncomfortable around Don. Ever since she sat down he starred at her and not in the way your average pervert or horny dude being seduced by a woman would stare. He looked at her as if he was a murder that was planning to just kill her without a second notice. He just starred as if he was lifeless.... Don stood up and whipped his mouth putting the empty mug on the counter. "Nah! Not in the mood for sweaty wrestling at the moment..." Don told her as he left leaving her with the bill for his beer. Now that he had a good drink and spoke to someone that wasn't a ghost he was ready to set out on another mission. Well not exactly a mission but something he can do to kill time. He begin the make his way to the border even using his scythe to levitate. Traveling by air had to be faster than foot so it wouldn't take him long to reach the border.

Caezel wandered through the forest, quite angry with the poor course of morning events but presenting a calm enough exterior. Not that anyone would notice - he walked far enough to be reasonably sure that he had thrown any scent that may have caught on to him.

He saw the border huts of Minora in the distance. It was indeed the only town he could honestly say he hadn't in some way gained infamy in the past few centuries; every so often in a border town a human corpse would be found in the morning. Not this town. He owned a small-scale business there for many years, uncontested - until a witch came along and began to steal business. It didn't help when the daughter took over it as well.

Thus he became a side competitor, losing his main customers to a mere human. Though he still had possession of a few exotics the witchlings hadn't gotten a hold of yet, not to mention spells from many centuries ago. Of course, he couldn't use all of them due to the risks involved.

He wouldn't mind draining the blood out of the witch had their competition not been as well known as it was, and Caezel would rather have a place he could call home for a while without suspicion and averse attention.

He approached the south side when he came upon a smell that over the course of the day had become all too familiar. He heard the music, a frightful noise to his ears, at the same time.

Angel. Again. He put his hand on the short blade beneath his cloak. Of course, killing an angel wasn't that simple, and to have a fighting chance he would require a few things from home. Then there was the fact he didn't necessarily have to kill it. But it would be nice to get it to shut up.

Thoughts of killing it or other measures evaporated when he saw it right in the central square with who he recognized as a rather sizable group of local children. Yeah, not a great idea. He hadn't taken the locals for angel sympathizers. Indeed, he would have thought the angel had been booted by now. He doubted the locals would look kindly on killing in front of children. And he had a reputation to maintain, and that reputation didn't include brawling in the street. The matter irritated him. He couldn't do anything he would have liked to. On a normal day he would feel more diplomatic, but normal days didn't see an angel, a fairy and a human wizard cross the border and come by a demon general that Caezel certainly wasn't inclined to meet.

He saw the witch Naya and felt his irritation grow. His anger was contained by his potion, thankfully, but the irritation went through all perceptible boundaries when he saw her walk away with angelic feathers.

He turned and walked out of town after the sight, going in the direction of his home to prepare for the angel's departure. He would make sure something went right... and he would do whatever was necessary.

@jangel13@King Atlas@Monochromatic@Narcotic Dollie

@Jangel13 @Narcotic Dollie
Withdrawing his hand,"Your feathers are of no use to me, but maybe i could use them for points with the witch here." Alistar said, thinking of the potions or the charms she could make."We can work out an arrangement on payment, but it would be my pleasure to aide you."

A deep chuckle rose from Alistar's throat. That Strange woman, Naya, was indeed a bit odd. Bold enough to stick her hands in a vampires mouth. The smell of recent blood magic clung to her. Something dark. Something Alistar liked. He wished to reach out and touch her, but feared she'd run away.

FWHIP.

The sound of something drew Naya's attention. "Excuse me," and she was off. "She Seems fun to have around, huh?" The sun was beginning to take it's toll on Alistar. He could feel fatigue setting in, his eyelids drooping.He knew he couldn't stay outside for much longer. "Do you think it'll be ok if we settle inside for a bit, sir?" Looking to the angel with the flute.

@King Atlas@ArenaSnow@Narcotic Dollie

Angelo smiled as their witch friend went inside to see what that noise came from and Angelo was told that the man would be happy to help him which was a welcomed relief considering he was still getting death stares from some of the folk and he knew once he left the children safe area of protection he would need real protection so making sure that his soon to be bodyguard was happy would be a good thing to do right now. Once Angelo had finished his song he nodded to his no doubt vampire companion since it was apparent he was getting tired from being outside Alright kids that's all I have for you today. Angelo said and they all awed being unhappy that Angelo had to stop playing but he simply smiled don't worry kids tomorrow you know exactly where to find me when you want me to play for you. Right now I need to talk to my new friend about getting back to my side safely so I can come back and play for you all Angelo said smiling and they nodded smiling as they all left the area and now Angelo was unprotected. Of course my good my man whatever you need. Angelo said simply as he looked around for a place to go to and the only place he thought was safe was the witches place so he decided to lead his new bodyguard into the alchemy shop

The trip back to the border was relatively quite, nothing out of the ordinary happened and Lucius was thankful for that. The demon general, like he had said previously, followed them to the border. It was such an odd group and such a miracle that no one else saw them, at least he hoped so.

Finally they reached their destination and a wave of relief washed over Lucius, there is was- home. He even had an angel save him and his skin, what a tale to tell the boys back at the barracks. But as he thought of the army, he kept glancing at the angel. She would definitely need an escort home, he didn't think she could be trusted by herself yet, even though she had wings and could get back faster. Nah, where was the fun in that?

He coughed, clearing his throat, "Umm, princess? I think I will accompany you to the capital, for safety reasons, of course. It would absolutely distress me if you did not return to the safety of your father."

@Lord Zee@Cuccoruler@Polaris North

Once arriving at the border, Octavia turned to the soldier escort and smiled. "Thank you for escorting us all the way here. We should be able to make it on our own from here." She said with a slight, polite bow. "If there is anything I could do for you, anything at all, please let me know so that I may repay the kindness you have showed us."

With a slight wave, she crossed the border and a pulse of warmth washed over her, wraping around her like a warm blanket. After taking a few more step, she removed her cloak, placed it on the ground, and stretched out her wings and arms.

Octavia was slightly surprised by the human male's request but quickly understood. He wanted to meet the king so he could brag about it this comrades. She exhaled deeply and smiled gently at human male. "You wish to meet my father, correct? The trek will be long and tiring. However, if this does not phase you then I shall not try to stop you. I'm sure that my father will be happy to meet you. " She replied somewhat disappointed, yet wasn't obvious about it. With that said, Octavia picked up her cloak and began to walk back to the palace with long, quick strides.

After a few hours of walking, they arrived at the castle. Octavia walked casually through the Grand Hall and to the throne room, where the king sat upon his elegant throne. Though he had the appearance of a frail, old man; he gave off an intense aura of greatness and godlike powers that demanded respect and authority.

Of course, such aura could not be felt by Octavia. What she felt was that of a worried, loving father welcoming back his daughter.

Octavia stepped forward and kneeled before her father, her head lowered. " I see you have returned home, my dear child. Did you enjoy today's adventure to the kingdom of darkness? Did you learn much?" The king asked, his voice sounded old and tired, yet held warmth and affection, as he stroked Octavia's head affectionately.

"Yes father! I met many amazing and wonderful people today! I met 2 vampires, a demon, a faerie, and a human! It was a little scary at first but the human and the faerie risked their lives to save me from the demon! And also! It turns out that the demon was actually very nice and he let us go!" Octavia replied excitedly as she told her tales of the dark world, sounding more like a small child than an elegant princess.

The king chuckled softly and continued to stroke Octavia's head, then looked up at the faerie and human that had accompanied her. "You must be the human and faerie children that my dear Octavia spoke of. I welcome you and thank you for saving my daughter. Tell me. How may I repay you for your valiant efforts? Speak your wish and consider it done." The king said.

"This kindness will not reach the battlefield angel. Be wary of that fact." Uriel pointed out before stepping back. It was a true wonder that no one saw them, this odd group. He would be hunted down if they were to know of what he has done. Well, he couldn't help it. Not only did it go against his morals to kill them right then and there but they also outnumbered him, and even if she was a young angel, she was still capable of fighting and so was the human. The fairy... well, they could certainly do more damage than what they're size would let on. "But if I would need anything, I will seek you out." He continued. Having someone as influential as the princess in your debt would be quite beneficial to him and his country. Perhaps one day.

He then turned to Lucius. "We shall meet in the battlefield human." He said before bowing his head, out of respect, and then turned around to leave for the training barracks. This would've been quite a story to tell if it wouldn't be so controversial. There would be times where he would look back at this fondly but it would seem that it would be soon.

It wouldn't be soon until he reached the capital only to be informed that he would not be training the young soldiers anymore so he was assigned to patrol the border once again. Who knows? If he was lucky, there would be nothing to worry about like before. He might even meet this fable Child of Light who helps both sides without bias. He always wondered if someone like that was real.

Lucius also gave a small bow to the demon, something that he hoped no one had really seen. He simply looked at the creature and gave a grunt. He probably would see him on the battlefield and soldiers did what they had to, but he hoped that it wouldn't come to that. It was a fleeting feeling.

As Octavia spoke he pondered her words, did he really want to meet thing King? He had not thought about it, would there even be a reward? No no no, the reward was the fact he got an Angel away from the darkness. He would be happy with that but if the King did offer one, well it was rude to refuse one with so much power and he did not want to be that guy.

Lucius, quite oblivious, simply said, "I had not thought about meeting your father, princess, but to simply see you home without harm. I know that he is powerful and under his watchful gaze you will be most protected. So yes, I will accompany you to the capital, whatever the circumstances."

The walk was, quite frankly, boring but Lucius did get to see a lot of scenic views and he liked that. Upon arriving at the castle, he was impressed with architecture. Having never really been to the capital before he was stricken by its beauty. Feelings of warmth and light radiated into him and it was a wonderful experience.

As they walked into the great hall, Lucius became incredibly nervous- was he really about to meet the King? The one who was there at the beginning, who had created them all! The king's presence washed over him like a wave, it was so grand and splendid. Before Octavia even got close to her father, Lucius was on his knees, head bowed in the greatest respect.

He listened to what they had to say to each other and then the king spoke to him, so he was offering a reward but what could he possibly ask for, or even want for that matter? Material items washed flickered in his mind, the king did say anything but what did he want? Then it came to him.

He rose his head slightly and looked at the king, his expression was one of awe, "M-Mi'lord. I am but a humble servant of the light, and it was my duty as a soldier of the realm to protect that which is most precious to you. All I ask in return for this duty is the official title of "Sir." Mainly because I think Sir Lucius, sounds amazing. If you could do this, I would be honored. Thank you, mi'lord."

With that said, Lucius bowed his head in respect once more.

"Thank you. Is it... okay for me to keep this? Or is there someway I can pay you for it? Or... since I broke it, replace it? I see you weave them in your hair sometimes, very beautiful." the phantom said, catching her off guard. Naya hadn't actually known for certain he could talk, so to hear the quiet humming of his voice made her let out a surprised giggle.

“Ah, he speaks! And such charming words you have, specter,” the witch laughs, but she still flushes a little under the praise. No one liked it when she wore the bird skulls in her hair, the children even spread ugly rumors about how she mashed up their organs while they still lay gasping and ate them for breakfast while they watched.

Which was just rude. She would never waste precious ingredients by eating them! Honestly, what kind of second rate hack of an alchemist did they take her for?

Naya catches sight of a darkly dressed figure stomping off towards the forest, recognizing him as her business competitor almost instantly. “Caezel!” She calls out with a wave, but he either doesn’t hear her or ignores her completely. The latter was most likely the case, that man was a prickly old beast. Always grumbling about something.

The phantom extends the stick towards her, the morbid pendant swaying gently in the frigid wind as Naya turns her attention back to him, reaching forward and giving the skull a gentle nudge. “You may keep it, specter. It is a lovely ornament for your stick friend,” she concurs, wrapping her coat tighter around herself to try to keep the cold at bay. Humans didn’t typically make their home on this side of the border and even though she was born here and well acclimated to the harsh conditions by now, it didn’t change the fact that it was absolutely freezing out here. “You need’nt worry about replacing it since I have so many,” she explained, waving a hand dismissively.

"Might not look like I can do much, but I can sort of collect certain things that you might find useful," the apparition spoke again and Naya found herself leaning in to better hear the compelling humming noise he emitted. The brunette thought about telling him not to worry about repaying her, but she knows that most folks around here, no matter what state of living they were in, didn’t like owing debts.

“I always need different things from the forest,” she admits, tucking a strand of hair behind her ear. “The ones I really need are on the other side of the border. I haven’t been since they tried to set me on fire a couple months back,” she confesses, grinning as if it was an amusing anecdote and not a harrowing near death experience. Approaching footsteps cause her to pause, turning to see Angelo and Alistair approaching from the courtyard.

“Hello,” she calls, nodding to each of them as they drew closer. “Did you come to look at my wares, or did you need a place to rest?” Naya questions, reaching out and touching the doorknob. The shop gives a groan and the floorboards creak as the old house welcomes her home, the cylinders in the lock scraping together to open and let her back in. The magic of it leaves her skin reverberating and makes her a bit breathless. “Come in, have a look around,” she grins, before shifting her gaze to the vampire. “I had a spell that required bloodletting earlier, so I apologize for the smell. Mind your manners, Alistar, my shop eats people who don’t behave,” she warns, but her tone is friendly.

Naya wasn’t overly concerned though, a lot of vampires seemed to enjoy the taste of the more ethereal creatures. From what she’d been told humans were pretty average, almost dull flavor wise compared to angels, fairies, elves, or hell, even werewolves. One vampiric customer had gone so far as to say humans were like stale bread, while an elf was akin to the most tender of steaks. The brunette had never come across someone who could tell her what witch blood tasted like, but she wasn’t really in a hurry to find out about that one.

“You too, specter,” she began, turning back to her ghostly friend. He didn’t really need her to hold the door open for him she suppossed, but she did it all the same. “Oh,” the witch stops, eyes going wide before pressing on, “Do you have a name?” She questions curiously, blinking up at the spirit. “I’m Naya.”

@jangel13@King Atlas@Monochromatic@ArenaSnow

"Rest if you would allow it, oh kind witch Naya." Alistar said giving his trademark smile to her, as he followed her into the shop. He could practically taste the magic in the air, warm and full of Care. Laying his helmet on the table next to him, he began to unbuckle the leather straps of his armor."You have my full respect, and i will show my upbringing was just."

The ornate armor he had folded into itself for ease during travel, yet it was lightweight and didn't cause much strain on Alistar. He chose a spot in the corner in which he decided to polish his armor. It was only when he looked up did he notice the hooded phantom in the room. " Who would've thought all of us would be together today? It's certainly not something you see ever day."
His mind began to ponder the way their meeting could have an affect on the future. A future where the concept of light and dark is just a memory of the past. "Come all, for we have plenty to discuss." His voice full of hope and joy, his eye lit with passion.

@ace of flames01@lord zee

Rida was relieved when they crossed the border. Her little body would have frozen far before then if it had not been for her wing able to cover her when needed. On the walk back she had fallen asleep on Octavias shoulder. Most would say she looked quite innocent this way. When they came to the castle Rida had woken up and looked at the building with awe. As she did though she started to think of what kind of reward she could possibly ask for. Due to the king having so much power he could certainly grant her something.

"I can't wait to meet the king!" Rida said acting giddy as she started fly around the two on her own. When they finally came to the throne room Rida landed on the ground and got to her knee out of respect. The King was certainly an intimidating person though, but Rida swallowed her nerves in order to appear as dutiful as she could.

"It's nice to meet you your highness." Rida said after his greetings. Though when she heard the king seemingly greet the princess and not want to punish her for going over the border this confused her a bit. What kind of a father was this man to not care to have guards around his daughter 24/7? That was when the idea of the reward came to her mind, she knew what she wanted.

"I have a request myself sir, I would like to have my own squadron. One that can help to protect the princess and any royalty from the shadows if possible." Rida added. A plan was coming into her mind, one that would allow her to one day have alot of power.

@Narcotic Dollie@King Atlas

Angelo smiled as he was let in by Naya she really was turning out to be a really nice woman being so hospitable to Angelo and the others. Alister started to talk about how it was a rare sight to see all of them together at once. Honestly to Angelo it was as well maybe this was the start of light and dark working side by side on a much larger scale. As they say a great movement starts with a single step. Angelo sat by Alister and Angelo started to gently rub his throat he was starting to think he may have over did himself playing for so long but it was worth it to see those children's smiles Forgive me if I don't talk much but I think I may have played for to long. so ill just ask what kind of payment do you want for escorting me to and from the two sides? Angelo asked thinking their would be something he wanted even a nice man needed money or something for their hard work after all...

Carson had been patrolling the hallways of the castle at the group's arrival. His day had proved itself dull, as he had suspected. He loved the king and as he spent more hours near him Carson's respect only grew for the old man, however, guarding the hallways of the castle never prved interesting. That was before the princess was called multiple times yet had not left her quarters. Carson watched the hallways nervously since. He wasn't on night watch but, at this point, watched the hallway and the doors of a small collection of rooms including the princess. One of the other soldiers Carson got on with well was on guard duty with him but was sent off in search of the princess leaving Carson, mixed with nervousness and boredom bubbling inside of him, to guard the hallway alone.

The news of the princess' arrival spread through the soldiers stuck with guard duty like wildfire and Carson was one of the first few to know; it was meant to be his duty to guard the princess that day so he ran down the hallways, his sheathed sword banging against his leg with every step he made.

Eventually he reached the throne room and stood in the doorway, inspecting the sight that beheld him. The king looked toward a black haired soldier who seemed familiar to Carson, just through seeing him in passing, possibly a 'hello' if they passed one time when the approached the war to fight or such but no one he knew. Next to him hovered a fairy who Carson didn't recognise at all. Octavia stood in front of the king, who's showed the signs he was listening to someone's requests. Now Carson knows it would be rude to barge in, however, he waited until the small voice of the fairy finished and walking into the grand hall, bowing before the king.

"Your majesty, I mean not to intrude, I apologise for that but I was wondering if you would like me to escort Octavia back to her quarters?"

@Cuccoruler@Lord Zee@Ace of flames01

@Lord Zee@SouffleGirl123@Cuccoruler

After listening to the requests of the human and faerie child, the king turned his attention to the Royal guard that asked about escorting Octavia. "Yes, I do believe that is quite alright. I'm sure Octavia is quite weak and tired from her adventure. " The king replied with a nod. He stopped petting Octavia's head and smiled at her gently. "Off you go, now. Go get some sleep, dear."

Octavia nodded back to the king and approached Carson with a slight giggle and a warm smile. The two then proceeded to her quarters. " You must have been pretty bored all day, huh? Apologies that in my lack of presence, I could not entertain you. Perhaps I could make it up to you by allowing you to be my personal guard for the next few days then?" She teased to Carson as the two walked down the halls, musing then giggling slightly once more over the thought of her merely walking around town and in the castle gardens, nothing too exciting to a royal guard. Her strides were slow and showed no urgency to making it back to her room. She was more interested in the guardsman that was escorting her, showing no sense of formality as she talked to him with a casual tone, easing whatever tensions there may be between them.

Back in the throne room, the king sat stroking his beard. After a long period of time he spoke. "The title of 'Sir', hm? Yes... The name 'Sir Lucius' does have a nice sound to it, doesn't it? Very well. Tomorrow we shall hold the official naming ceremony tomorrow at dawn." The Kings voice boomed. "As for you, small child of Fae, I require something of you to fulfill your wish. I require the flower bud, one of each, from a violet, bluebell, and poppy. Bring them to me and I shall fulfill your wish."

Lucius watched as the guard came in, he frowned slightly as he rose from the floor. The royal guard took princess Octavia away, yes Lucius thought, she had to be tired after all. He did not recognize the guard, nor should he have. The capital guards were just a bunch of errand boys who did little fighting at the front. He doubted if the this, brown haired boy had seen any action at all. What really bothered Lucius was how he casually strode in and whisked away the princess as if she was his. True, it was his duty but at the same time Lucius would never have interrupted official business with one such as the king.

The wizard was actually quiet surprised to see that the King would grant him his wish and for that he was especially grateful. It was not every day the title of sir was given out, and not only would it be a prestigious honor but he hoped it would be taken more seriously from his superiors.

Lucius bowed slightly as he spoke to the king, "Thank you, my king. I shall depart now to prepare myself for tomorrow." He backed away slightly, still bowing. Then he turned around and walked away. His footsteps echoed in the great hall and facial expression was that of gratitude but underneath it all, there was a bit of envy.

Lucius was only a soldier after all, no actually, he was just a human. There was no chance for what he had been thinking.

Rida was a bit confused about why the king would require what he did. But she obeyed anyways. "Of course your highness." Rida said with a smile before flying off. As she thought more to herself on the way to flower fields she realized what the King was going to do with the flowers. He would most likely turn them into fairies. She already had a few fellow scouts she planned on having in her squadron. She wouldn't let this stop her though.

If she had to, she would find a way to replace these new fairies with the ones she had chosen instead. It wasn't until the next day that she appeared again. This time with two other raggedy looking fairies. They seemed to only be there though to help her carry the flowers. However unfortunately they all found themselves lost within the palace for about three hours before finding the throne room again.

Carson walked by the princess' side, his golden-brown eyes darting every-which-way, his hand hovering by his sword. He was alert and ready for anything but he hadn't signed up to do this. He joined the king's army to fight and assist in acquiring peace throughout the land, not to escort the giddy princess through the winding corridors and spend long hours by her door. It just didn't fill the job description he was sure he applied for, however, the king insisted his cohort take most guard duty, whether it was because they weren't strong enough or were ideal to have if the castle ever was attacked Carson was unsure, not that it'd be likely that the castle was attacked.

The giddy angel giggled as she chatted to him casually, teasing him light-heartedly. This wasn't what he signed up for but he had no problem in the princess' company, actually quite enjoyed it no matter how awkward it was. Fun, yes, but he was meant to act professional, however, the princess made it easy to let go of such need of professionalism, her fun-loving, almost child-like manner made it very easy indeed.

Well next time you run off when you're supposed to be under my care be sure to take me with you," he jokes, nudging her playfully before tagging on an awkward "Your highness,"