---

^@Jollan

---

Nailah couldn't hide her frown after she heard what Dremmick said. The man was simply so... boring to be with. His attitude certainly wasn't pleasing, but as long as he didn't disrespect Nailah, he could be as much of a dick as he wanted... It's not like Nailah particularly cared about what people thought of her. Otherwise she wouldn't tell others so easily that she was a Priestess of the Fallen Goddess...

"So rude..." Nailah said, rolling her eyes as she watched Dremmick walk away towards the inn.

Allard's response on the other hand was much more tranquil. Indeed, a dragonling companion was indeed quite uncommon. Even though he was cautious about the intruder, he analyzed the whole situation much better than Dremmick had.

"Maybe... She surely seemed to be different from your average curious passerby though... It will be fun to see where this will lead though..." Nailah said with a smirk.

"Oh, that's right! You still have other members of the group to introduce to me, right?" she said, changing subjects quite quickly, with an excited smile on her face.

As they were on their way back though, a sudden, but powerful wave of magic enveloped both of them. Despite it's power, it was warm, comforting and calming and even though she wasn't wounded, she could feel it's comforting aura enveloping her. Whoever used that spell was certainly powerful. Nailah didn't know what it was but she suspected it was a healing spell of some sorts, especially due to Dremmick's reaction to it...

"What's this?" Nailah heard Allard's surprised voice, turning to him. Upon doing so, she noticed that it was indeed a healing spell, and quite a powerful one. From Allard's back, where previously she saw no signal of wings or anything, she suddenly saw two big wings with an surprising wingspan sprouting from his back. Allard himself seemed to be as surprised as Nailah was though. Their might was soon proved after he moved them, causing a gust of wind that made Nailah protect her eyes from dust and the wind coming from them.

"You're quite full of surprises, aren't you? Was that one of your friends? Nailah said with an amused smirk, referring to the strange energy while watching with satisfaction his joyful laughter.

When he asked if she wanted to take a 'shortcut' while beating his wings, Nailah let out a mischievous smirk as she approached him.

"It will certainly be interesting..." Nailah said, walking up to him and throwing her arms around his neck, embracing him and wrapping one of her legs around his, her bare thighs touching his skin as her tail wrapped itself around his other leg. Her unusually hot skin was nothing short of maddening. Soft, inviting, alluring... Not only that but the way she approached Allard wasn't that of an innocent girl. It was of someone who knew exactly what they were doing, someone experienced who was taking charge of the situation. Just like a serpent wrapping itself around their prey, Allard could feel her powerful muscles underneath her delicate and soft exterior. That duality between danger and desire, power and beauty, was truly enthralling.

"Just be careful not to fall... The drop can be quite devastating you know...?" Nailah said, whispering on his ear with a giggle. Something in her voice made clear though that she wasn't talking about the height...

"Oh, don't worry. I won't use any 'tricks' on you... not yet at least..." Nailah said, giggling. Whatever she meant by that though, it seemed she was probably talking about her abilities, which now, thinking a bit better about it, you knew nothing of.

"Talking about 'tricks'... I saw you looking towards that strength festival when we passed by... Wanna show me what you're capable of? Have some tricks up your sleeve yourself? Who knows what it will be the prize if you win..." Nailah said, smirking as her tail slapped his ass.

"Shall we go then, big guy?" Nailah said,

Dremmick heard a commotion outside, which was odd considering he specifically chose a small room with no windows. He sat up from the bed, and the hopped out. He pulled the hood over his head and pulled up the muffler to hide his face. He equipped his gear, but left his leathers locked in the room, as it would take too long to put them back on again. He had a bad feeling about this influx of people in town after Ami's healing outburst. Their mission, as well as getting this hammer, was to keep her safe. Now, thanks to her dousing everyone and everything in healing magic, she told the whole forest where they were, and anything that could be hunting them, should there be something, could take advantage of this.

Dremmick hurried out to the streets, though quickly noticed that most the paths were blocked by the large crowds trying to come in and see the healer. He looked around and saw an alley which he ducked into. With a running start, he ran a bit up the wall and then used his blood manipulation magic to grapple up to the top of the building quickly. He moved from rooftop to rooftop rapidly, jumping across alleys to reach the next one. His movements were delicate and quiet, not alerting the people inside if their were. He was able to bypass the crowd and make it to Ami fairly quickly. Settling in on the roof, he kept an eye on the proceedings, looking for anyone or anything that seemed off or dangerous. Maybe it was due to the difference in what he was carrying, or where he was from, but the Nero Nomad caught his attention, before anything else, missing the one short hooded assassin, Shye, as she moved through the crowd, her cloak blending in with other poor folk and some nomads. Every time someone got close to Ami though, Dremmick was having to judge if it were a threat or not.



Allard was admittedly still a bit surprised at the way she came over to him, wrapping herself around him at the invitation of his shortcut idea. She seemed confident, for sure, though he wondered if she had ever been in the air before. His face was a bit red as well as his ears, and he didn't miss the little hint she gave him about falling either. And he wasn't sure what she meant by tricks, and he wasn't entirely sure he was ready to know, but what he did know is that she had just asked to see what he could do at the strength festival.

"Wanna show me what you're capable of? Have some tricks up your sleeve yourself? Who knows what it will be the prize if you win..."

Allard looked at her with big grin albeit jumping a bit at the slap and continuing with a chuckle, "Ya've seen my weakness, I believe it's high time ya see my strength." His wings spread out and up slowly, preparing for flight. He felt her muscles tighten around him to hold on, and reassuringly her pulled her closer with his right arm holding tightly to her. It was gentle enough not to hurt her, but like a vice that seemed to lock her in as well. He recalled what she said about falling, noting the hidden meaning behind it. As he crouched down slightly, muscles tensing up preparing for flight, he spoke in a low rumbling tone that resonated through his chest to her. "Sometimes," he started in , "ya fall and ya crash inta somethin' ya never knew ya've been searchin' for."

With that and one great flap of his wings, they launched high into the air. Holding on tightly so she wouldn't fall, he continued to rise. He made his way to where the festival was, but on the way, he took the time to have fun with his wings again. While he was much slower than other smaller winged races, including his own, that didn't stop him from doing twists or a flip here or there, it just required him to be up higher before doing it. He tried to make it as smooth as possible so that Nailah would enjoy it more than get sick, but even the last trick, may have surprised her. He started out high, and then pulled his wings in, encasing the two. He looked down and smiled at Nailah before looking up at the ground. what seemed closer due to the due peril was actually a good twenty five feet or so in the air, Allard expanded his wings where he was going to land, causing a strong gust of air that cushioned their descent enough to slow them down and make a safe descent by flapping a few more times to finally land. Eyes all around seem to stare at the two, especially the giant of an Oro who had just arrived, some undoubtedly even remembering who he was on the spot.

He looked down to Nailah, gently releasing his safe hold on her. "Not so bad fur bein' eleven years out'a practice, eh?"



Shye made it back to the main road when she heard some talk of a magnificent healing aura that had overtaken Pearl. Unconsciously, she touched a hand to her neck at the collar of her dress. Against her better judgement, she went back to the town, fighting through in influx of citizens who started showing up in the streets to see the healer. Upon entering the town, and the aura that enveloped it, she could feel the fatigue of the day wash away in an instant. She tried humming, experimentally of coarse, but to no avail. Maybe if she were closer? She made her way deeper into town, being careful to make sure Nix was secure under the hood and unseen. She had arrived at the medical center, immersing herself into the crowd, and saw the one she was informed of as Ami Lovegood, a highborn healer from Vrondi. Even though she was with the Alliance, Shye was strictly told that Ami was not to be harmed. She put her hand to her throat again as she attempted humming, feeling the vibration of the action at her fingertips..... but there was nothing yet again. She silently sighed, she should have known it wouldn't have worked. Curses are not something that is healed, they are to be broken, but Shye couldn't have helped but to at least try.

---

Ami feels the touch of the mother of all things and becomes drunk with joy as she hears the celestial music of life which her resent expenditure of energies has made whole. The blood of life returns to her core her hair returning to its snow white hue her true wings now exposed glow as if bathed in the sunlight of a new day as she drifts back down to touch the earth.

As her toe touches the moss of a glenn every flowering plant within 100 feet seems to fight for the privilege of her attention by displaying their brightest plumage. Butterflies of pure light flow up into the sky those souls trapped by circumstance now made clean as they join the river of life to be reborn.



On her back between her wings a blackened arcane seal burns quickly at it’s edges like paper consumed by fire it’s embers swirling up like the motes of a night fire as that which had sealed her true aspect is banished.

Et a tu Shal El whispers an old follower of the Taxi ways meaning “The Avatar of Life” as she looks on the revealed Ami.

Ami smiles sweetly at the old woman as she approaches her then pauses to touch her head granting her a blessing. Then she moves past and into the town once cursed and sick. Where she steps she is followed by the scent of a garden unseen and in her passing it lingers like a promise that there is hope still in the world.

People, brave or desperate reach out to touch her wings as she moves among them and experience a soft warmth that in their declining years they will be comforted by but never be able to explain to those not here this day.

Ami still caught up in the high of her recent actions waked in a dreamlike state her wings stirred by the breezes

---

^@Jollan

---

"You're so adorable, all red and embarrassed~" Nailah said with a giggle as she saw Allard visibly getting red. But despite his obvious embarrassment, Allard was very confident in his skills as he spread his wings, getting ready to fly. Apparently, her teasing was indeed having an effect on the gentle giant as it got obvious when he pulled her closer to him, speaking to her in a low, rumbling tone that would make any innocent girl immediately fall head over heels for him. Unfortunately, Nailah wasn't an innocent little girl... far from that...

"Oh, and don't worry about me falling, big guy. I always land on my feet... Meow~" Nailah said, with a mischievous smirk. Things were getting a bit more interesting now. Who could have thought that Allard could pull out such smooth moves... But competing against Nailah on that department was asking to lose... She just hoped that her warnings wouldn't go unnoticed or ignored by the big guy... She genuinely liked him. He was really a big, gentle giant with a heart as big as his muscles. The last thing Nailah would want to see was him getting his heart broken thinking he could have her only for himself...

Just as Allard lift off the ground though, his wing's power was made clear. Even though he just got them back, he really looked like he knew exactly what he was doing. He clearly wasn't holding himself back as he did twists, flips and ending with a really flashing dive, cushioning their fall with a blast of wind from his wings. Despite all those tricks though, Nailah wasn't frightened, instead she was really enjoying the ride. Of course, she was holding him really tight, but despite that she was really enjoying it.

It wasn't a surprise that they drew quite a number of stared after they landed, not only due to their flashy arrival, but both of them were quite an unusual pair... A giant oro and a hybrid draconic woman...

"Out of practice? That was one of the most exciting 'shortcuts' I've ever taken!" Nailah said, laughing.

"It looks like some people already know you." Nailah said, after noticing some stares towards Allard.

"I'll be cheering for you, big boy. Good luck." Nailah said with a mischievous smirk.

---

It was a spectacular display Allard went through once his wings were rejuvenated. Likewise a few other Oro blooded Gaians of Pearl spread their owns wings to fly. But none took it to Allard's heights. Once he had landed on his feet with Nailah in tow the crowd who had gathered at the field began to take notice. The shift of wind was a sign of none other than a mighty kin, or one from the town over. One with wings strong enough due to being raised in a hearty well fed home and with strong Oro blood. The final competitors were up. The finals were on the way and bets were made. Though not sure of who Allard was he was welcomed almost immediately to watch the competition. It was the veterans of the village, those who tamed beasts with Allard since before he was half his size. They recognized him and let the people know a new contender was in their midst.

Everyone being rejuvenated had made them excited to begin. Allard was welcomed next to his three competitors. Those whom he may recognize and some he may not. Regardless the first set was underway. A sheer boast of strength. A massive black boulder sat before them all. These ebony stones were heavier than normal stones yet also resonated with an aura. Before them all was an elder of Pearl. He nodded to Allard. "Well well another one of our children has returned. It's good to see you young lad." Ramu had two dragons by his side that seemed more his friends than pets. Though the dragons are known to be young looking they have been friends with Ramu for most of his life. He lit a pipe and began to puff on it, letting out a few clouds of smoke as he sat in a stone chair made of the same black stone material. "Lets begin and get some dinner already!" He shouted. The competitors will go down the line one by one tossing the stone however they could as far as they could. Physically. Around two thousand kilograms for each competitor to contend with.

First competitor - Urag Went first. He tossed the stone with all his might. Landing it thirty three meters away. The other two competitors did their best. But could not top the first. They sighed and kicked rocks but it was now Allard's turn. The crowd remained silent as they waited. Single woman of Pearl who had known Allard or were just seeing him began to speak about him and his plus one. Nailah, a Tyro and if not for her dragon blood would seem out of place in Allard's arms. At least compared to one of his own blood, as they thought.

---

"There!" Earlier when Ami's aura reached its peek a group of shining armored knights approached on white horses. A handful of them began to enter the town. Their leader being Lucius. He watched carefully at the crowd of people who congregated over the source of the uproar. "Ami..!" He said. Stopping his horse before her radiating presence. He was taken back. Enough to take off his golden helmet and step down from his steed. His followers doing the same. Lucius couldn't help but approach her cautiously. Her ability now "awakened" so to speak. He found himself stifling a smirk. As if a plan had been set into motion and the results were rolling out positively. "I see you've finally seen who you truly are outside the walls. Here, in an open poorly guarded town." He looked about for any sign of Ami's chosen knight and the other followers of the alliance. "No surprise.." He muttered about their absence.

Lucius suddenly came to a knee. He raised a hand to Ami with a golden box in it. "Ami I have a confession to make... I did not intend for you to travel all the way to those dangerous mountains on some fools errand.." The box slowly opened revealing a ring and necklace with glimmering jewels rarely found yet adored in Vrondi for their appearance in light and how when angled correctly gives a shimmering display of various colors. "Now that I have you outside of those confined quarters. Now that you've seen your beauty in comparison to the rest of the worlds. Let us spend our time together, experience more of these lands with me. Abandon this alliance and let us travel together." He raised to his feet, his greatest privilege being able to approach her closely. Even daring to grasp her hand and look longingly into her eyes. The people who crowded and asked for her help be damned. Lucius was clearly smitten...

Even as the hooded nomad remained close by. Praising Ami as did the others.

---

A woman. Stood outside of town over one of the larger hills and within a forced accumulation of forestation. The sun was lowering and the shadow grew over her and her beast. A lone dragons head emerging from besides her. "Fascinating... So the sun has arrived in town..?" She said to black cave that was the small hole that made the Dragon's ear. She hummed a gentle song whilst caressing the creature's snout. "The full moon is coming tonight.."

"I can't wait.."

@13org@RumikoOhara@Jollan

Allard smile only grew as she said she would be cheering for him. "Oh, I'll be listenin' fur it, trust me." He unharnessed his weapons, and set them and their belts down next to Nailah, the ground shaking a bit even as he tried to be gentle with it. He then took off his shirt and laid it to the side, but left the arm cover on. His body was brimming in muscle with just enough fat to smooth him over and keep his body from blowing out under strain, but there was no denying the body of power that resided in him. What was probably more unsettling however, where the uncountable amount of scars on his body from years of fighting. Not just from his years in the military, no, those paled in comparison to the ones he earned in the arena. The freshest seemed to be one in the center of his chest, about the size of the smaller sword he carries now, that if you knew which one you were looking at, lined up with a scar that was also on his back. Speaking of of which, his back was still fresh with scars that dotted its entirety. An experienced warrior may recognized the type of scar from others who may have survived one or two of these, but there were well over thirty scars from arrows in his back alone. It was from his final day in the arena, when his daughter ran him through, unknowing who he was at first, and the arrows that he tried to shield her from. This show of muscle and endurance only drew more people to talk about him, though the older ones who somewhat knew what happened to Allard before he was taken had mixed emotions seeing all the wounds the man has accumulated.

Allard was glad to be welcomed into the competition, and upon Ramu's greeting, Allard laughed heartily, clasping forearms with the man in a strong handshake. "Likewise my friend, It is good ta see home once more. Let's hope I haven't gotten too rusty, eh?" He went on to take his position in line as the last one since he was the last to arrive. He started stretching as the others threw their boulder, none making it as far as the first. Urag was his name, and he had a mighty lead on the others. This should be interesting.

It was now Allard's turn. He simply walked up to the black boulder, not in a showy way, but as if he were sizing it up. He hefted it up casually in both arms and tested its weight buy tossing it up and catching it a few times, and then he even tried one arm. It was heavy, sure, probably about four times heavier than the refined heavy blade he carried day to day, but it wasn't the heaviest thing he had thrown around before either. When Allard was ready, he walked over to the line with his boulder in tow in both arms again. He set it down in front of him for a moment and took a few deep breaths. He then grabbed it again, lifting it off the ground. With a mighty yell he spun around once, stepped forward, leaning his body back, and using all the strength in his legs, body, back and arms, launched the boulder as hard as he could. It soared fairly high into the air, as if thrown by a great trebuchet. It just kept going and going. Thirty meters, sixty meters, ninety meters, and then a rumbling crash was heard as the boulder landed. An oro ran out to see the distance with a rope, steaking it to the ground at the end of the field, as it landed well passed what was marked on the field.

"One hundred and twenty-six meters! ONE HUNDRED AND TWENTY-SIX DAMN METERS!" the man yelled out in disbelief. Allard rested his fists on his sides as he took a deep breath and released it, his muscles tensing and relaxing as he did so. It was good to be back.



It always amazed Dremmick how people never seemed to look up when looking for someone. He didn't like what this glistening fop was trying to do. Ami was sent out on a mission to help cure the land of the poisons that brought so much despair to towns like this. As Dremmick looked around and saw the town fairing much better, he had built an appreciation for her skills, albeit it made a beacon for any trouble nearby. This man was suggesting abandonment of this cause to gallivant over the countryside eloping? It was shit like this that made him despise knights and nobles alike. Dremmick jumped from the rooftop, landing perfectly in a small open space next to the two. He cut his eyes between all the ones who were closest to Ami, some taking steps back at his sudden appearance from nowhere.

"This land was healed thanks to what she has done, even if she did make herself a beacon to any remnant forces of Nuxta in the area," he said glaring at Ami momentarily before turning it back to Lucious. "Unless you plan on taking her to heal the lands yourself, your childish plans of eloping the countryside together will have to wait." Dremmick had no intention of debating this with the man. But fight, he was definitely ready to do if he wanted one.

---

^{@Jollan @Rai}

---

Nailah would probably have said a flirty comment about Allard's body once he took out his shirt if wasn't for the amount of scars she saw. While the man's body was indeed impressive, Nailah knew very well that those scars weren't the scars of a soldier or something like that... They were too many and too deep for that. She couldn't help but loosing herself in her own memories for a brief while as she stared at those scars. Looking at them took her back to days she wanted to forget, days that only a handful of people knew about... The arena... While the scars on her skin were inexistent, the scars on her mind were definitely there. Including the burning anger and hate that were the only reasons for her to keep on living back on the day... Judging by Allard's scars, which amongst them, some matched one of the swords he carried himself, he probably had a really tough past, just like hers. But despite the amount of scars he had, Allard was still a really gentle guy, as it became evident as soon as Nailah met him.

But as she heard Allard's voice again, as he began talking with one of his old friends, she was brought back from her uncomfortable dive into her own memories to the present once more. The man whom Allard was talking to had two dragons beside him. It was obvious not only by his looks, but by the weight of his voice that he was really respected around that town. After he shouted, the competition finally began.
While the competitors were all really strong, one of them clearly stood out amongst all them. Urag was his name and when his turn to throw the rock came, the difference between him and the other competitors was evident.

"Ooh~ That might be an interesting match to Allard..." Nailah said, watching the competition with an amused expression.

But as soon as Allard's turn came, it was clear who was the victor. Nailah had greatly underestimated his strength. It was almost... unreal. He lifted the boulder with such ease... It was really funny how he was humiliating the other competitors without realizing it, going as far as throwing the boulder up and catching it again with one arm, testing it's weight.

Watching that scene unfold, Nailah couldn't help but laugh, amused.
"That exceeded my expectations!" she said, clearly amused with what was happening.

"Go ahead big boy! Show them what you're capable of!" Nailah shouted, cheering for him before looking up and breathing out a thin line of fire, drawing a burning heart in the air to draw attention, ending with an adorable giggle. She didn't remember when it was the last time she did something like that. She wondered if Allard would be happy with the little pyrotechnic show.

When he finally threw the boulder though, letting out a mighty yell, it was almost ridiculous how far it flew. If the people watching the competition thought Urog had thrown his boulder far, then they surely got shocked to see where Allard's boulder ended. It flew more than one hundred meters before finally falling, making the crowd go wild after the shock passed.

Walking towards him with her hands on hips with an amused expression, Nailah shook her head, incredulous about what she had just seen.

"Hey! Shouldn't you have held back a little? The other guys couldn't possibly stand a chance against that!" She said, laughing.

"Are you sure you're not one of those giants from children books disguising himself as an oro?" Nailah asked, teasing Allard.

Allard noticed Nailah's little fireshow on the sidelines. It brought him a smile and feeling of warmth as he went up to make his own display of strength. Now, as the deed was done, there was a wild cheering from those around him, some still shocked at the display of raw power. Before anyone else approached him however, Nailah was already there.

"Hey! Shouldn't you have held back a little? The other guys couldn't possibly stand a chance against that!" She said, laughing. "Are you sure you're not one of those giants from children books disguising himself as an oro?" Nailah asked, teasing Allard.

Allard chuckled a bit before answering. "And provide a false hope? Would that not crush them more? For some Oro, this is the day that they gave up on the strength competition. But for that Urag fellow, this is the day that will make him strive to become stronger, I'm sure." He thought for a second, "As for being a giant, well, let it be our little secret." he said, continuing to laugh.

It was without question Allard was victorious with his feat of superior strength. Urag crushed the earth beneath his fist. Dragging up grass between his fingers. "Damnit. Id sworn to have uh chance this year.." He sighed deeply. Approaching Allard with the old man and other contestants. They shook Allards hand and looked at Nailah with a vague interest. She was clearly a different breed from the typical Gaian woman. It was known that Oro men preferred women with fair dragonic traits. Being that she was with Allard however they did not flirt. Instead met her with a polite nod. The Elder welcomed her though and whispered to Allard. "A partner from foreign lands. Id say youre the first of this town to do so in a while." He chuckled. Smoke escaping his lungs as he did.

---

Lucius shot a crippling cold glare to Dremmick as he began to rise to his feet. The box of jewelry clapping shut. Piercing blue eyes looked into the dragon blooded necromancer's. He then put the box away inside his comfortably suited armored attire. He nearly radiated gold yet Dremmick between his beauty and Amis was a strange sight. Lucius partes his lips to utter a single "Move." Lucius's knights gripped their hilts. Their auras spiking as the light reflected off their semi drawn blades glowed like concentrated light.

"I wont tell you again. Youre just a low blooded mercenary for the king. What do you know of the matters of royalty?"
@Jollan@13org@RumikoOhara

When Urag came up to shake hands with Allard, he returned the handshake with a powerful one of his own, locking eyes with him and placing a strong hand on his shoulder. "Urag... Never doubt yur strength lad. You are powerful, but ya still have plenty of room ta grow. Continue ta strive ta be on top, and you will have tha power ta overcome any danger brought ta you or this town." As for the elder's comment, he wasn't quite sure how to respond. "She has helped stop the bleeding of wounds no healer could touch." he replied in a lower quieter to him. "I owe her a great debt."



Dremmick's looked the pompous man up and down, then looked at the group of lackeys behind him, preparing to draw their blades. "Know my place, hmm? My place would be following my duty, would it not? As I'm sure yours should be as well. Tell me....", Dremmick started, his eyes widening as they started to glow from behind the darkness of hos hood and muffler, "how many men are you willing to send to their death for your foolish 'matters of royalty'?" The bandages on his arm started to turn red as well.

@Rai @13org

---

Ami had been in shock at the appearance of Lucius and his order of knights but what had held her the most was how he approached her and fell to his knee and displayed for her the emblems of marriage saying "Ami I have a confession to make... I did not intend for you to travel all the way to those dangerous mountains on some fools errand.."

These words once more displayed how little he understood her even after all the years they had known each other.

"Now that I have you outside of those confined quarters. Now that you've seen your beauty in comparison to the rest of the worlds. Let us spend our time together, experience more of these lands with me. Abandon this alliance and let us travel together." he added farther showing her what he thought of her own feelings and honor.

Then Dremmick spoke before she could gather her rebut in a more diplomatic form.

"This land was healed thanks to what she has done, even if she did make herself a beacon to any remnant forces of Nuxta in the area," said Dremmick disapprovingly and adding a glare at her as if he thought she had been swayed before continuing. "Unless you plan on taking her to heal the lands yourself, your childish plans of eloping the countryside together will have to wait."

Right or wrong he’d said somewhat what she’d wanted to say herself but had rushed headlong into insult tempering any response from Lucius into hardened steel in defense of his own honor.

Lucius snapped the box closed; as closed as now was his heart his honor impinged and blood boiling his actions an unspoken command for his men to draw arms in her presence as he commanded her knight ”Move” as the fighting aura of his command silitated among those who served his cause.

"I won't tell you again. You're just a low blooded mercenary for the king. What do you know of the matters of royalty?" he snarled at Dremmick.

ONce more Ami was shocked but this was not the type that might rob her tongue of words but of diplomacy.

”I am no man’s prize and my actions my own.” she said her own aura flaring as her wings spread wide in display of her rank.

”Who granted any of you the right to initiate violence in my presence as if my decision had altered and needed defense” she said in a voice none had ever heard uttered or expected from her lips.

”I have vowed that this is my mission and it was done so on my honor which has now been called into question as has my choice to act in service to that vow. her eyes flaring with the flame of her passions just as did all those of Sol Royalty when angered her slender form now cloaked in the light of the sun.

”I am Ami Beloved of the Light, House of Sapphire, Daughter of the Concubine Astrid the Divine Beauty, Shadowed Princess of the Royal line of Illumi, ward of Vrondi God King and here I see none with rank to make any command or demand upon my person” her tone seeming to cause the sky to rumble as her body was now bathed in light which caused all but the strongest to shield their vision from.

With a single stroke of her wings she was aloft her gaze no longer the soft gaze of a healer but that of an offended monarch.

”Fight if you wish but know that none of you will die, none will claim victory your battle a futile gesture of force and stupidity for I will let none fall here this day or the next should you prove so insolent as to continue” then she climbed higher into the sky her healing power accelerating the growth of plants in the area.

Mason Drake

---

@Rai@Jollan@Verticus@Brithwyr@RumikoOhara

As Dremmick leveled his glare at Lucius, would slowly seep from the air about the grand spectacle, the rapid growth of the plants slightly slowing as the source drew closer. Seemingly unnoticed, the soft chinking of light armor slowly approached the necromancer’s back. Without a sound, a gentle grip asserted itself on Dremmick’s shoulder. ”As you can see Ser Lucius….” a beaming, benevolent, and seemingly oblivious smile began, ”Lady Ami seeks to resume her quest to heal the land; land that desperately needs the divine light of Vrondi. Around us is land ravaged by war, torn by strife, and laid barren by Nuxta….. The good people of Gaia need a strong symbol of hope. Though I cannot speak for the lady, I do believe it would be in your best interest to aid in our mission, or be on your way, as she clearly intends to see this through.”

Next to Dremmick stood a very familiar Seraphim, clad in Aion armor. Though the individual appeared similar to Mason, they looked far healthier and stronger than the young knight ever had, even after being healed by the all-seer. The boy continued with his smile unfaltering, ”However...... If you refuse to settle this matter peacefully, I would ask that you have the decency to handle your matters outside the village.”

Dremmick didn't care a bit for all the titles she had, what had started as him trying to get a guy to scram so she could continue her work turned into her becoming so delusional and wrapped up in herself to the point that she thought they were fighting over who had control over her and how either of them think their rank was above her. To Hell with ranks, Dremmick never once gave a thought to rank for anything he did, and he sure as hell didn't need anyone 'granting him the right' to do a damn thing. Little did either of them know that keeping an ever present aura to keep them healed would do nothing to stop him from killing this guy if he needed to. Dremmick was about to just leave them, he had other things to deal with than to try to help the helpless, but he was stopped by someone putting their hand on his shoulder.

When he turned to see who it was, he was a bit surprised. It took a second to recognize, but it was Mason, looking to be in so much better health now than how they left him that dremmick at first had to double check with his soul vision very breifly just to be sure. He attributed it to Ami, but something felt off. There was a pull of life energy still, like before. It wasn't strong enough to steal from people, but ever since he helped revive him, he'd noticed it, and it still seemed to be going. He couldn't quite place it yet, but there was something else different with how he looked, and it wasn't just the healthier form. Something was different, he just didn't know what.

It was amazing how a different tone could change the exact same thing he said but only moments ago. He appreciated someone actually agreeing with him and seeing what he was saying, but as for this Lucius character, he was sure that he wouldn't back down so easily. Dremmick could only pray that the glistening idiot would leave instead of joining them.

Dremmick remembered that he wanted to talk to the young knight about what happened to him. "He isn't worth my time to fight, or the breath to speak to. I couldn't care less at this point what those self centered 'holier than thou's do." There was a momentary pause, "how are you holding up?"

---

When Ami spoke up for herself whilst retaining her bright and vibrant form she made Lucius and his band of knights look to her in awe. Lucius's cold countenance was briefly humbled before her intense aura and stunning bared flesh. He could only look at her growing resentment towards him and her own group members. He held back an outstretched arm to keep his knights back. Even as Ami began to continue her speech higher into the air. "You will hear me!" He shouted in return. "There is no one else that deserves you more than me!" He cried. Despite his hardened glare his eyes glistened with welling water. Yet he could not look hard at Ami, his brows quivering as he looked to her like a sad puppy. One clad in bright dazzling jewels and attire that could feed a villager for a month.

As her aura flared so did too his bright armor. His knights felt a charge of brimming divine and chaotic light. Ami's aura seeping into the chaotic as her power flowed in accordance to her mood and will. Being a child of divine light yet harboring the blood of the chaotic was no laughing matter. Violently the burst of light was absorbed into the knights's bodies. They then found themselves either on their knees from too much sunlight or brimming with energy. Lucius found himself brimming with energy and found Dremmick to be a perfect target for his disdain. Watching he beloved take to the skies.

But as he thought of carving a marking of the sun on Dremmick's back after having him flayed in public he was interrupted by Mason. His large white wings, the markings of a strong blooded seraphim, made him appear more refined in Lucius's eyes. So he heard him if not only momentarily. Once Mason was done the royal from Vrondi looked disinterested. With Ami going higher into the sky he had no more reason to be here but to assure he safety. "I tire of you alliance lot already. See to it that you use your flight to keep her safe. I assume I can trust a member of the Aion. Which you are, are you not?" He climbed his horse as he spoke.

Once done speaking he rode his horse, his knights quickly jumping onto theirs to follow, into town. Moving the crowd of people who were watching Ami out of his way. It was clear he was not interested in leaving just yet. But as the plant life began to grow he also needed to see how this transformation of Ami's would resolve. He did not mind the extra plants that sprouted around him. Felt more like home. However this was to the peril of the residents of Pearl. Their well trimmed and cobble stone homes and streets were being overgrown with wild plants. Chaotic light affected the entire town as she grew higher. Rivaling the falling sun.

---

It was a joyous time those who attended the strength competition had. The food for Allard was free and the news of him and Nailah spread among them quickly. However the bright lights and the growing wild vegetation alarmed some of them to the events going on in town. Pointing above the town one could make out Ami's position. Her wings and bright light was clear as day and flickered like a bright flame from a distance. The elder before Allard rubbed his chin in thought. "A fool throwing light in town.. or a warning. Let us see." He began to move towards town with the others. Soon they found the crowd who stared up at Ami in awe. Children being healed and warriors restored. They looked to their elder with bliss and told him and the others of her. Without much time they looked at Ami with respect and thanks. "Ah I see. Much ta thank err fur. But she leaves us with soooo much trimmin ta do! Ah small price ta pay.." He looked over to his cottage home with its flowers grown long and healthy.

The elder looked to Allard. "This is a wondrous moment. The return of Allard, one of our lost boys.. and tha restoring of our guardians of pearl. Those chosen few bestowed upon by tha Queen with tha duty ta protect this town with their lives at all times. Unfortunate how they were injured.. But if it be true this healer of Vrondi's blessing has given them back ta us." He looked past Allard to see leaving the healing center were large figures. Their auras were immediately recognizable as calm yet wide. Like giants who shifted the winds they approached the elder, Allard, Nailah and the crowd behind them still rejoicing.

Om.
Erica.
Galland their leader.
Grim, their odd man from Onyx. Each approached fully clad in their armor, though some of the damage from earlier was still seeped into their protection's hide. Each one approached with their height reaching around 8 to 11 feet. Their leader Gallant was the tallest. He approached Allard and removed his helmet. His handsome face was still scarred from previous battles, and tattoos marked his personal pride. One for each child, wife and even kills. Though most of his markings could not be seen his gold tooth and hardy smile while reaching for Allard's forearm to grasp made it clear he was a seasoned man of Gaia and Pearl. The others saluted Allard with a clang of their chests, all except for the black armored knight from Onyx. Who simply stood waiting.

"It is a pleasure to see you have returned home brother! These past times have been a troubling to say the least. Your return however has marked a turn of this terrible tide of woes!" He laughed heartily. His voice nearly echoing as he shouted with amusement. "I remember when your father was teaching you to milk a cow and you nearly ripped off its utters in frustration! God I do not know which will get me more drunk tonight! The memories or the drink! Let us celebrate tonight!" He roared. The crowd of those who heard him shouted in agreement. Rowdy men, playful children, gossiping mothers and happy elders were bustling in the town. Even as the sun lowered to make way for night. "Please join us! Bring your friend too!" Galland winked to Nailah. He couldn't help but notice her in this crowd of giants.

---

Soon the group of knights were inside Savvan's inn. The lute of the bard still strumming gently, as he had just recently taken a break to consume food and wine to loosen him up for the night. Each knight sat at a large round table. They sat at a stone pearl table above the other guests. A full serving of food was nearly instantly ready for them to enjoy. Drink was fat and so was the meat. Their seats were huge to fit their large bodies and comfort for their wings that were folded as best they could at their backs. Galland lifted a cup for the others to enjoy. They sighed and loosened their armor. Revealing each of their visages. Erica was recognizable to Allard as a young girl who once was in town. Though always younger than him or Galland she was often seen in the market helping stock supplies for her families shop. Om was visibly dragonkin yet his eyes were deep with emotion and thought. The opposite of how he appeared under his helmet. Grim was a sly looking fellow. His black wings matched his armor, the Onyx preference, and his dagger which he used to cut the meat was of a hunters.

8:00 PM

Allard was happy to see some old friends since his childhood. He slung his shirt and weapons over his shoulder, in a hurry as he walked over to greet them. He clasped arms with Galland, who had actually seemed to grow a bit taller than Allard over the years! "Well now, old friend, have ya hit a growth spurt or have ya been stuffin' ya boots just ta one up me again?" he said with a hearty laugh. It must have been an odd sight to those who didn't know Allard or the others personally, seeing such decorated and armor clad warriors saluting as equals to this man who wore simple clothes, even if he was powerful. Galland was about the same age as Allard, and both served in the military together. After laughing about some old memories, Allard accepted the invitation, asking Nailah if she didn't mind coming along and meet some of his old friends.

The arrived at the inn again, and food and drink were plentiful. Allard had placed his shirt and harness back on before they arrived. He was caught off guard when one of the knights took their helmet off. "Erica!? Well I'll be... So you have taken to the sword as well have you?" He was surprised, but not really in a good way, though he was still able to retain the happy and hearty smile on his face.



Lynn got up from where she was resting, unsure of how she got here. Last she remembered, they had found that young boy from Vrondi in the back of the wagon. He seemed ready to attack so she used her magic to defend Siiga, but then blacked out in pain. Now she was right where she was sleeping earlier with Metis at her side. She felt better than ever though, and noticed that there was now a crowd around them looking up into the sky at what seemed like a small sun floating above them. Lynn has to shield her eyes momentarily from the light, which drowned out any light from the descending sun. She looked around for any familiar faces, seeing Mason and Dremmick in the crowd among a number of people she didn't recognize. She looked over to Metis. "Where did Siiga go? Is she all right?" she worriedly asked her companion.



Shye was honestly worried that her target would get into a conflict with.... whoever this guy was. He seemed like a typical self-centered royal to her, adorning himself in an exhaustive amount of decorative jewels and gold, and ready to smite any creature he saw beneath him if they even dared to speak to him. These were the kinds of people she enjoyed to assassinate. Even if she overall hated her profession, every now and then, she got a target that she truly felt was worthy of their untimely demise. A look of concern unconsciously showed on her face. She wasn't sure how she would accomplish her assassination if this man was never alone. On target's such as this, who seemed proficient in fighting, it was best to single them out so that she could concentrate on the kill instead of worrying about others. She may have to tail them for a longer time and wait for them to camp. Maybe they will set up a watch routine and she could eliminate him then before the rest of the alliance wakes up.

It was while she was thinking this through that another young man walked up, diffusing the situation surprisingly easily. Her heart fluttered as she saw him as he looked quite handsome, but it quickly faded when she saw he was a knight. He wasn't as highly decorated as the other man, but him being a knight would most likely mean he was a noble of sorts. She wasn't sure hat that skip of a heartbeat was for, especially since she hasn't really seen the man before. She sighed inaudibly and she turned and started to make her way to leave. She needed time to think about how she was going to do this cleanly and quietly. All this fanfare didn't seem to help her one bit. She decided she might head for the edge of town where it was a bit quieter to gather her thoughts.

Mason Drake

---

@Rai@Jollan@Verticus@Brithwyr@RumikoOhara

"Dremmick my friend, your concern is appreciated... But I can hardly recall a time that I've ever quite felt this.... I n c r e d i b l e." Mason whispered to his ally before turning back to Lucius; the young seraph's voice brimming with excitement. "But of course sir." he began with a courteous bow, "Your faith in me will not be misplaced." As the noble and his accompanying knights rode away, the young knight breathed a sigh of relief-- a confrontation was the last thing this town needed. As Mason scanned the surrounding town, a frown crept across his face. It appeared that the town was still in danger; ironically from the very person that had come to heal it.

"I'll be right back-" Mason said as he spread his large, unmarred wings and took to the air. Gracefully, the young knight brought himself to a hover before Lady Ami, using his body in an attempt to shield the town from her intense light. "Lady Ami, I understand that you are angry about what has transpired... But please, calm yourself. Your light; that has done so much to heal this village, is on the verge of destroying it. I understand what it's like to have a hard time controlling your power, but these people have already lost so much, to take away their very homes would be cruelty of the worst kind." the boy solemnly pleaded as he shielded his eyes.

---

^{@Jollan @Rai}

---

It became pretty obvious that the admiration for Allard wasn't only due to his size or strength after the competition ended. Even the elder who had announced the beginning of the competition before spoke with Allard as he was an old friend. Nailah couldn't help but find that interesting to see. The news about Allard winning the competition spread through the town really quick. Most of the people Allard met were happy to see him... Not only that but they also seem to be happy to see that he was not alone.

While Nailah wasn't paying that much attention on how the others were seeing her relationship with Allard, she didn't have much problem with them saying whatever they wanted. After all, Nailah never paid that much attention about what other people thought of her anyways...

A big celebration was promised for both Allard as a winner, and the completion of the festival, but a weird light interrupted them as they were about to start. Whatever it was, it was coming from the same source of that healing pulse from earlier as Nailah could feel the same energy coming from it. This time though, it was a tad bit more... chaotic... out of control... Just like a small sun, the source of light was simply there, hovering above the town as it sent powerful healing pulses through the entire town, not only curing wounded soldiers, but also causing a rather unnatural growth of plants, trees and flowers. While indeed was something good, if that light didn't stop soon, it could cause a good part of the town to be destroyed by plants.

"Is that... one of yours, Allard?" Nailah asked, looking to Allard with a confused expression and then to the woman hovering above the town, surrounded by people who looked at her in awe.

"Quite the... unique group you have... Something tells me it will be really fun travelling with you guys~" Nailah said with a chuckle and a mischievous smirk.

Just as she finished talking though, the elder spoke once more, saying how fortunate that moment was. Not only due to Allard returning to town, but to their elite warriors being cured of their wounds thanks to that woman's healing powers. Just as he finished saying that, a group of armor clad warriors came out of the healing center. Despite the damage to their armors, which was apparent, their auras were undeniably strong.

As the group approached the elder, Allard and Nailah herself, she once more was surprised to see how many people knew Allard around that town as the tallest and biggest of the warriors, which was even taller than Allard himself) walked towards him, taking off his helmet and grasping Allard's forearm in a warrior's greeting. Most of the other warriors greeted him with equal fervor, except for one of them.

Nailah was really surprised to see that there was someone who was actually taller than Allard... And that wasn't all, he was also really good looking!

"Oh my... I didn't know it was possible for someone to be taller than you, Allard! I guess I should call him big guy now, right?" Nailah asked, teasing Allard with a giggle.

The tall warrior then, proceeded to heartily laugh as he talked with Allard, even mentioning a few embarrassing memories from their childhood, which Nailah heard very carefully with a mischievous smirk on her face as she looked towards Allard, waiting to see his reactions.

Hearing the tall warrior's invitation to drink, together with the other warriors and Allard, Nailah couldn't help herself but to wink back at him, with a fox like expression.
"I would be more than happy to do so!" She said, stopping between the two men, towering above her.

"I must warn you guys, It does take a lot to make me tipsy... I'm a half dragon after all..." Nailah said with a giggle.

Inside the inn, the bard's lute helped to create the perfect atmosphere to celebrate, as the group of knights sat down, taking off their helmets and starting to drink. It was fun to see how some of them didn't match the armor they wore. The biggest example of that was the one who wore a very intimidating armor, but when he took of his helmet, Nailah could see eyes replete with emotion and thought. It was also surprising when the woman took off her helmet. Nailah was expecting see a much more... rougher looking woman. Instead, she was really attractive. The only one amongst them Nailah couldn't really trust was the one who wore a black armor with equally black wings, the same who didn't greet Allard when he got out of the healing center. She didn't know why, maybe was his expression or his face, but Nailah couldn't really trust that man.

"So guys... Are all warriors and knights around here as good looking as you guys? I was really expecting see much more rugged and tough faces!" Nailah asked laughing as she took a sip from her tankard, slowly waving her tail behind her just like a cat would with an amused expression.

It was then that Allard turned to the woman, surprised to see her. Erica, as he called her, seemed to be one of his childhood friends.

"Oh, so your name is Erica? I won't lie, I was also quite surprised when I saw your face after you took off your helmet. I was expecting a much more... rougher look... Instead, I had quite a pleasant surprise!" Nailah said, winking to the woman with a giggle.

"If we're drinking together tonight, I should know your names and you should know mine, don't you agree?" Nailah asked, looking to the group once more.

"I'm Nailah, a priestess of the fallen goddess. Pleased to meet you." she said, waving her hand in a cute way with a kind smile.

"You mentioned getting drunk earlier, didn't you?" Nailah asked, looking to the tallest warrior, just before she downed the entire tankard in just one gulp, letting out a rather moderate stream of fire afterwards, almost burning Allard's eyebrows.

"Oops! Are you ok Allard? I'm sorry!" Nailah said, laughing.

"So... Wanna to see who gives up first?" Nailah asked, looking to the tallest warrior with smoke still coming out of her mouth.

"You guys too! Come on! Don't be shy!" Nailah said to the others as well, encouraging them to drink and celebrate.

Allard raised his eyebrows as Nailah downed her tankard, what he didn't expect was nearly losing those eyebrows in a ball of fire shortly after, he just had time to lean back and out of the way, bursting into laughter just after. "I'm perfectly fine, But a tad surprised," he said in reply to Nailah, asking if he was okay, "I didn't take ya for a seasoned drinker." he jabbed about how easily she downed her tankard. "A contest of drinks,eh? How about it my friends," he asked the guardians as he downed his own drink. "Up ta tha task?"

For anyone that agreed, the drinking began. Allard trowing back drink after drink, easily, but it seemed Galland was keeping up with him, The two were competing, just like old times. Over the coarse of many drinks, many stories were shared, never focusing on the bad times, but trying to revive the good times in their lives. "Remember tha year we stopped participatin' in the strength festival before joinin' tha military, n'that yahoo from Onyx won it instead? We was havin' a drink ta toast off our deployment and tha man bumped inta ya on the street here in town, started callin' out all matter of curses at ya." He turned to Nailah so he could explain a bit better. "This guy thought he should take a 'victory lap' o'sorts n' was paradin' around here n' Onyx like he owned tha place. Well, Galland here decided to strap 'em to one of tha throwing boulders we use fur tha competition, and thew him an' tha boulder, beatin' the pompous little shit's winnin' throw by twenty meters!" Allard started laughing as he remembered the look an the man's face. They were all lucky he didn't land under the boulder, but it was still hilarious.



Dremmick watched as Mason went up in the air to speak with Ami. He had to admit, even though she was making herself a literal beacon, what she did for the town was great, even if they had to do a little yard work to regain control of their houses. If it continued though, there could be problems with it. He could imagine of trees started coming up, it could devastate the landscape and any buildings on it, but for now it seemed fine. He even felt better than he has in a long time. As he watched though, something caught his ear, some murmuring about a bright arm? His eyes widened as he looked down, noticing his right arm glowing white hot, nearly full of life energy. "Dammit," he cursed under his breath as he tried to quickly move through the crowd. A wave of pain hit him as the life energy topped out in his arm. An intense burning sensation swept over the entirety of his arm and any wounds he had ever accumulated since the curse took ahold of him, the old wounds glowing white as well. He could feel the burning creeping from the right side of his upper chest as the curse started to spread. He needed to get out of here, fast.

"Quickly! Out of the way!" he yelled to the people, who tried their best to clear a path for him as he started to run any direction that would take him away from Ami. The pain was unbearable, and his wounds started to bleed on their own, leaving a blood trail as he ran. He tried to disperse the energy from his arm, but it was coming in at too fast a rate for him to release it without damaging anything around him. Dremmick was fast, but he wasn't fast enough on his own or with all these people in the streets to make it out at the speed he wanted to. He didn't want a lot of people seeing he had blood magic, so he cut a corner into an alley away from most people's line of sight. Finally able to use his blood magic, he grappled back up to the roof tops. He was able to move much more freely from up there, as well as use his blood magic to help him vault between buildings. The further he got from Ami, the slower the curses progression became, until finally he made it a little ways into the woods outside of town.

He was breathing heavily, the burning sensation of newly cursed flesh making him want to just writhe in pain. From the feeling of it, it had spread from his right pectoral and right shoulder blade, to across his back, to the start of his tail, most of his upper chest to nearly covering his left pectoral and down to the top of his abs. It started to creep up the right side of his neck, though the top of his left shoulder and neck were still fine. His right side down to his hip was also turned. He fell to his hands and knees and dug his fingers into the dirt before falling over on to his back, trying to recuperate. He lifted his glowing arm to the sky and gritted his teeth as he discharged the energy, causing a bright beam of light that very momentarily rivaled the light Ami was casting off, the recoil cratering him in the ground a couple centimeters. He let his arm drop to the ground. That was close....too close. It sounded like he could hear whispers in his head, begging him to continue, with promises of power in exchange. They were louder than before, but he knew they would fade in time. What Dremmick was too caught in the moment and worn out to realize however, were a pair of yellow eyes watching his every move.

Shye was practically delivered the opportunity she needed. To go for the kill.