After inquiring from the bartender, the cost of renting a room in tavern’s inn, Bowyn found himself in for quite the shock. He could deal with the overpriced mead of The Leaky Tap, he rarely minded parting with amas in exchange for alcohol but the price for room in inn was completely unreasonable. He had expected things in Roshmi to be a bit more than they were up north but for someone used to living rent free in the forest he was finding the city to be far more expensive than he cared for. Clearly the bartender could read the annoyance at the price on Bowyn’s face and the man assured him that ‘they wouldn’t find rooms more reasonable in the city, at least not in any place you’d want to be in after dark’. Normally Bowyn wouldn’t think twice about staying in the rougher areas of a city, and he doubted that Torvi would be easily intimidated either, but getting into trouble would draw unwanted attention to them. It seemed wiser to stay in the more savory parts of the city and after a failed attempt to haggle the barkeep down on the price Bowyn gave in and quickly finished his drink and ordered another to take his mind off the incurring expenses. Of course, seeing how this adventure was more than likely to end in death he might as well live frivolously until they met their end.

“Best not to gawk too much.” Bowyn warned quietly as he noticed Torvi looking around at the bar’s patrons as they headed towards a table away from any invasive ears. “I assume you don’t have quite the variety of creatures where you’re from?” Bowyn asked, from what little he could remember about the old stories of humans, they all had the silly round ears and lack wings, being fairly uniform in appearance other than size and coloring. He had been surprised when he first met Torvi to learn that most humans did not posses magic, and it was strange for him to think of a world where so little magic existed. Her world had sounded just as brutal and unforgiving as his own but without magic, or even flight, he imagined that would make it all even harder to bare. “With no wings and little magic, if you don’t mind my asking, what exactly does your world and it’s people have going for it?” Bowyn asked.

Time: Morning
Location: Biralei residence
Interaction: @princess Malachi @Dezuel Zelginn @Inertia Rei @Potter Corvina

---

Kenia was slightly surprised when Malachi decided to open up a bit about his lost family. She was surprised to find out that he, too, had lost a child and a spouse. Though her loss of a spouse was quite different from his. That would be a story for another time perhaps as the thought of Airdan always seemed to just enrage her, yet at the same time it helped her stay focused on her goal. That was the moment she realized that she was holding Malachi’s hand. Thankfully the sound of barking gave her an excuse to quickly let go and turn her attention to the racket.

Malachi was headed towards the kitchen now and she was following close behind, snickering a bit at his parenting comment. The sight before her was quite an odd one. She heard Rei question if they were being attacked, she looked to the demi-human child and thought that wasn’t really likely. She turned to her dog and knelt down as she tried to quiet him. ”That is quite enough Xena.” She said as the dog quieted her barking and replaced it with growling now. Kenia glanced around wondering where Ares had disappeared to and that was when she noticed the soot footprints across the floor. She quickly glanced to the child again and found that he was the culprit.

So that’s how you got in…

She stood and made a quick scan of the kitchen, spotting some little honey cakes that had quite obviously been made that morning. Silently she swiped one up and moved towards the bookshelf as Malachi began asking for an explanation. ”Why don’t you come down here, sit down, and explain yourself little one? You can eat this nice honey cake while you do.” She said as she produced the honey cake. Her tone was kind, yet also filled with a motherly tone that seemed to convey she wasn’t going to take no for an answer. She was prepared to bind him in a box of light magic if she absolutely had to, but she’d much rather let him make a decision first. She figured he was probably rather swift, but so was she and she’d use that to her advantage if she needed to.

Time: Morning
Location: Ra Monde
Interactions: @Dezuel
Ambience: Ra Monde

---

Ilan was caught of guard by Baraian and his questions. He hadn't expected him to exit his tent. The faun composed himself and cleared his throat, looking up at the dark elf hesitantly.
"I wanted to know what our plans are for the rebellion." If there was any other way he could help Ilan wanted to know. Undoubtedly there was much more to do than just take care of the sick and injured. Finding other humans had been on his mind for a while now. Maybe that was something he could do. Although that would mean venturing outside of Ra Monde.

"There must be other humans in Roshmi..."
Ilan started a little unsure. Having other humans join the rebellion would inspire morale. Also it would give the humans a safe place to hide. Roshmi was a large city, but this world was new to them. It was easy to get lost, meet the wrong people. At the worst end up like the first human Ilan had met.

"Maybe we can go look for them."

Bickering continued between the two boys as Dionaea let the apple roll down the back of her leg and onto the ground below them without much sound emitting from it. Her jaw tightened as their voices raised, she was use to arguments now and again having so many siblings- but the words exchanged between the two were cutting deeper than the jousting between family. After Kyran declined Dionaea's idea it was clear that the fairy was not in good standing. "Sorry." Dio admitted in a voice just slightly louder than a whisper. It had been a foolish suggestion, she now understood that. She quickly agreed with the new offer, "Yes, maybe some fresh air and a change of scenery will be good for us." she chuckled, reaching up to her fake ears and adjusting them upon her own.

Watching Risa walk inside Dio knew that her friend needed some space, and choose not to follow. Soon she returned dressed in a beautiful gown and her hair was done up. The young fairy felt a tinge of jealousy in the moment- as she hadn't spent much time on her own appearance the last weeks, her own hair pulled tightly back into a high ponytail, and her clothes the same as the ones she adorned earlier in the journey. She made a mental note to find something fresh to wear when they went to Roshmi after their meal. Appearances were weird like that- Dionaea would not consider herself a vain fairy in comparison to some of her older sisters who were obsessed with their looks, but there was something about having a new dress, a stylish hairstyle, or even just a bath that could change your entire mood around. The young fairy had spent some of her darker days at Kyran's parents in bed without eating, bathing, or even communicating with her friends besides the sullen "good morning" and "good nights" she would muster out. The faces of her brother's still engraved in the tunnels of her memory, but she knew that she couldn't just lay down and die.

Risa suggested a place for them to eat and the young girl nodded, "I am ready to go, though I may want to buy some extra things while we are in the city." she cooed, a small twinkle of happiness in her eye as she patted the pouch she always carried around her petite waist, the sound of coin jingling in response.

Time: Morning
Location: Roshimi City
Interaction with: Terneus Andros_@Dezuel

---

“You seem to be mistaken.” Xenelith responded with the fakest smile he could summon. “Your peers might call you lord, your subjects might. But these are not the light elf lands. Your blood, your family, your age, your self-proclaimed claimed beauty means nothing to me.” He explained matter-of-factly. “The only claim that counts is the same that I and my men make as well: servant to Aklenroth. In that we are equal. So I will take my liberty to call you by your name, Terneus.” He cast one more look at the knights and questioned what sort of warriors they truly were. If they never failed and never got beaten down into the ground, how good could they be? His attention turned towards his own men. He didn’t know them very well but he knew their stories. They were all the same. Taken from a young age. Trained in groups. Given too little to eat so they had to scavenge or steal. If they become too strong they were purposely put against a much older and much stronger opponent. All dark elves had their faces pushed in the cold mud or freezing water at some point in their lives. It made them strong and resilient. His eyes fell back upon the Androsian Knights. If they’ve never known failure then they were never humbled. Never taught how to learn from their mistakes. These knights were given everything and Xenelith despised them for it.

But then his eyes fell back on Terneus. His claims began to ring hollow, like lies or fantasies. Xenelith could try to contest the fact that he never lost but it would like talking against a tree. He took solace in the truth: Terneus had lost a century ago. For a hundred years he has been losing. It was Aklenroth’s mercy that spared his and his kind’s life. What truly drove home just how delusional he was, was his belief that he could make winning a war beautiful. It made Xenelith question if the narcissist actually knew what beauty was. The feeling was not beyond Dark Elves. Many believed the couldn’t understand things like beauty, kindness or happiness. He knew that better than most just how wrong that was.



Pain suddenly swelled up from his heart. Like a ram had charged into his chest. He clutched where his heart should be, feeling it aching. For a moment he could barely breathe. His mind wrenched back control of his memory and buried it deep as he grimaced in pain. As soon as he was overwhelmed he recovered again. The pain lingered but he ignored. Never the less, he realized he had shown weakness.

He would’ve been content to let Terneus pretend he was in control. He could bear the insults and ignore any orders given. But now he had shown weakness, and that just would not do. “Though I must say that your skill is legend, Terneus.” Xeneltih said as his hand slowly gripped the hilt of his still sheathed blade. “You may not know this but your martial prowess is quite the talk in Dakka. How about a friendly duel. To see if the tales hold up.”

Time: Morning
Place: Ra Monde (Underground)

The dark elf took his time in looking over Ilan, as if considering what he would do with him. Baraian concluded just by looking the faun over, that he was most surely not someone used to fighting. Were it his way of moving, his soft voice and mannerism. Perhaps it were the entirety of the faun himself which screamed pacifist. Baraian took off his hood to reveal his white hair, and the braid he kept and then stepped up closer to Ilan.

"You show initiative, that is promising. When it comes to what the plans be, we are going to find more people willing on joining our cause. If we can find more humans, all the better. Like you say, the likelyhood of there being more inside of Roshmi is decently high. We must find them before the servants of the king does. The more of them we have, the better is our chances to succeed." Baraian raised both his arms and tried to place both his hands on Ilan's shoulders.

"Can we count on you? Will you fight with us? Not everyone is a master of the sword or bow, you have no doubt other talents. One talent which I have deciphered is your unquestionable kind heart. People will turn to you for aid, use your natural gift to make sure no one will splinter or disrupt the rebellion. Make sure that our new leader doesn't forget about the people in here. The vulpine with the fans, we should go to him. Take him with us to the surface in our search. Your suggestion is a good one after all. Keep placing such good advice and you will serve our new leader well." The dark elf offered a serious nod, then lowered his arms as soon as he had pulled down his hood. He began to walk, looking over his shoulder indicating for Ilan to follow. "Ask him to accompany us. You have a way with words far better than mine."

The dark elf looked forwards again, the shadowy shade from his hood falling over his eyes and nose as the corner of his mouth began to twitch, just a tiny little bit.

Terneus Andros

Time: Morning
Place: Roshmi

Terneus opened his mouth is a gasping manner. 'Mistaken?' The word lingered in his head for a moment. He had NEVER been mistaking anything, no this dark elf was the one being mistaken!

The light elf allowed his noble eyebrows to furrow slightly. "Mean nothing to you? Oh how about the exile of your kind? Does that also mean nothing? It was after all we of the true elves which banished your ilk to begin with. So in a manner of speaking, this isn't your land either. But the king's." Terneus waved his mirror as if it was a fan in front of himself.

"Oh don't delude yourself, we are not equal even if we serve the king. I know your king better than you do to be fair, and speaking of fair. That I am. Oh and I shall not refer to you by any name, commander. I see little point in speaking with the dead. Suffice to say your ilk have a tendency to not last very long, unlike me.. which has made living into an artform. A beautiful artform."

Terneus softly chuckled with a hand before his mouth, until he saw a change in the dark elf, he appeared to be troubled and thinking about something by the look of it. It seemed his mention of the banishment hit him hard! The light elf screamed in pleasure within, how he enjoyed to see these exiles suffer.

"Flattery now? Surely you can do better, legend makes me sound several hundred years younger. Which doesn't make justice to my knowledge and skill. My martial prowess hm? Oh hohoho, you would wish for me to duel someone? Who could possibly have the skill to match mine? The king excluded ofcourse. Surely you don't mean yourself? Ahah! Oh? You do? Oh how very entertaining, it would surely not be fair, even with my face. It would be like watching a swordsmaster beating a child with a wooden sword. There's no need to shame yourself in front of your men, neither do -I- have the time. I have some rebel scum to capture." The light elf allowed himself a high and mighty chuckle, as he turned around and motioned for his men to get ready to leave, his eyes gazing into the mirror to see what Xenelith would do.

Zelginn

Time: Morning
Place: Biralei estate

The small tailed and foxeared boy sat in the bookcase, hissing at the dog below which had a high interest in him. How he disliked dogs, they always tried to ruin all his fun.

Shoo! Shoo! He thought to himself as he eyed the dog and then to the two humans, as a male elf appeared in the doorway. Zelginn smiled widely in an awkward manner as he waved one of his hands, before grabbing unto the bookcase again. It appeared to him that the elf was the owner, or at least a superior to the two humans. Humans? That's odd. There shouldn't be any humans around. The small figure blinked quickly, looking over the two odd creatures below, the band of sausages hanging still around his form.

He decided to keep quiet to hear what excuse the two humans would come up with to the elf. Curiousity got the better of him. And then came a female elf in, which seemed to be either the male elf's wife or the actual owner of the place. The arrival of more people made him more and more curious. The elf woman tried to lure him down, but Zelginn was highly trained to resist temptation wherever it would present-

"Oh cake!" He began to swiftly climb down as soon as the canine had backed down, and then scurried over to sit at the table, taking a slight jump up on it with dirty sot ridden feet, his small right hand reaching out to receive the honey cake as the left began to rub in his eye.

"Sorry.." He said softly, as a small sniffing sound exited from his mouth, his left hand wiping his eyes. "I'm just soo hungry..." He said lowly, as he listened to Corvina explain things to the elf woman.

"S-she's right, I-I... I didn't know a kind lady lived here, I should never have listened to him... he told me to go down the chimney.." He sniffed again, making a pained facial expression, rubbing his eyes harder. "H-he told me I could t-take as much food as I wanted... if I fetched him shiny jewels... he even gave me coins, but I cannot do it to this nice lady!" He said aloud, and took out the small pouch he had taken from the dark elf, throwing it to Malachi. "Y-you can have that back! I won't steal the nice lady's things for you!" He said in a teary eyed manner to Malachi, as he grasped the honey cake in his hand, then jumped down to try hide himself behind Kenia's leg looking at Malachi. That's when he gave the male elf a smug look, only for a brief moment.

Time: Morning
Location: Roshmi City, outside Kyran's home
Interactions:@MissCapnCrunch@Tae@Dezuel


Kyran partially ignored what was being said, choosing to ignore him suggesting that he kept Risa unsafe. He had led his friends to safety and everyone with him had survived. That was something to be proud of. Though, the fact Elthrael knew she was a princess or knew her family was very off to him. He knew Risa since they were very young and had never once met or seen him before. He was shocked when he actually looked at Risa had come back.
She was dressed so beautifully, and her hair looked amazing. It really put in perspective how much time was wasted on such an irrelevant fairy. She started speaking about considering whether she had power or not. As the only heir to the throne besides her parents, if Aklenroth’s rule was overthrown and the old ways restored, she would be the queen of the River Kingdom one day. Risa didn’t seem interested in the power so much and wanted the best for the fairies. She would really be an honorable and humble queen.
Then Risa started to take a tone with them he had rarely ever seen her take. She wanted them to all be kind to each other, asking them both to be gentlemen. Kyran straightened up and gave Elthrael a snide look as if Elthrael had been trouble. He bowed as he said, “Yes, Princess Millinia. To Chef Baelde we go. “he turned to Dionaea and Elsea, taking Dionaea’s hand and squeezing it comfortingly, “Are you girls ready? There are some dresses my mother will let you borrow.”
“You look so beautiful, Risa." He said to Risa once he had finished talking to the others as he went over to hug her and twirled her around before settling her down.

Time: Breakfast time!
Place: Roshmi (outside Kyran's parents home)

The dark winged fairy had found much amusement in Risa's regal command as princess, his jagged corner teeth showing as he smirked. Then he proceeded to do a bowing motion midair, one arm before him and the other behind.

"As you wish, princess. Take your time, I will wait til you are ready." He said with a smile on his lips looking towards Risa, before throwing a glance to Kyran where his smile turned into a smug grin.

'So it begins, the fight for the crowns. Yes, the crowns. It is not only the lich who bears one. Dear princess, I will claim both crowns and be the ruler this world needs. An unquestionable order, a reshaping of the land, a restructure of the natural order how it should be. Would this vicious vulpine threaten the plan, he would doom the entirity of Avalia. If the fairy kingdom could not accept me for my appearance at birth, they would never kneel to a vulpine as a co-ruler. No, it has to be someone of fey kind, someone with ambition. Who will not let things slip out of his hands. The reason for Aklenroth's reign is each race's inability to decide the next cause of action and naively believing that they do not need to know how to fight. Fighting... Fighting is living! If you cannot defend yourself, how would you be able to defend others? Stand so that you may pull up those yet too weak to fight, inspire them with the necessary encouragement to make them use their granted gifts. To not use the gifts bestowed upon them at birth is to spit nature in it's hand, to be ungrateful to what you've been given. To throw away such a large portion of your life.

Someday you will regret neglecting yourself, for it will show in your inability to defend yourself or others. And that is how we find ourselves in our predicament. There are those however whose ambitions and lust for power be driving them to insanity, that they desire it at any cost but without any effort put into it. They want it for free. Thinking they can wield the darkest and most powerful of magics, but instead become wielded and consumed by said power. A power is only a power if you can wield it, if it is not then it is a liability. Just like how this girl, Elsea turned out to be. She lacks the focus needed. She won't be able to learn it, If I can twist her very form with words she'll never master that art. To be able to twist others while not becoming twisted yourself, is an art which I have mastered. Taunt, mock and lure, while still not being subjected to either yourself is how you can get someone right where you want them. Fight at your terms. The more factors into your favor, the more likely the chance for success.' He thought to himself, looking over the gathering of people which were now getting ready to do some attire change and march off to some place to eat.

'To eat and drink, to breathe the air, to feel your heart beating in your chest. All of these things people so often take for granted, never ever pondering on a day where it may no longer be there. Those without foresight, those without premonition for the future be doomed to perish in it. This vulpine... Kyran and Elsea are loose ends. They will not make it that far, their hotheaded nature will get them killed. A pity about the girl, but it cannot be helped. You cannot change the nature in people, as little as you can change nature itself. It is what it is and has always been. The strong rule over the weak, as it is meant to be. Some be gifted at fighting, some be rich in wealth or power, others find... love. Life itself is not fair, it is what you make it to be. If you lack the ambition to rise in the food chain, then you will be nourishment for someone else. There's nothing else to it. It is how the world works, yet even so creatures at the top of the food chain may because of their power shield those who are weaker. Or in the cases of the dark elves, enslave them. Much like Aklenroth has enslaved them. But in such a way, those which are weak also serve a purpose.

You should never disrespect life, not yours and not anything elses. To inflict unnecessary physical pain is an anomaly which must be cut away. An impurity of the soul and defilement of nature. Aklenroth had the ambition, but also the wickedness which drew him to defile nature. Would he not have defiled the nature which even he was born from, I would not have minded his rule. But now as things have gone the way it has, then he is a bad plant which I must unroot and toss into the fiery pit which he has dug for himself. There's just nothing more to it. Nothing is eternal, nothing lasts forever. Not even nature as we know it, but it will survive in other ways.' He allowed a smile to decorate his face as his thoughts wandered, his form sitting down at a nearby pillar, waiting outside of the house which reeked of vulpine foulness.

'King Millinia, how could you allow your own kingdom to fall asunder? This is what happens when people lack the ambition and focus needed to rule. If you are not willing to sacrifice a pawn in order to win the game, then you are useless as a ruler. No ruler can ever win and not lose a single piece on the board. Those which try end up losing everything instead, for that one piece. As long as the king still lives, then there is hope for victory. Even if the queen is the most dangerous tool on the board. For future kingdom come, we must have a clear enemy, which we may put our focus upon to gather our army. The orcs perhaps? They breed like rabbits, we would surely not be able to kill all of them off. Not that I would ever desire that fate for any creature. Knowing that I am such a thing myself. A creature unlike any other fairy, yet at the same time just like them. Be it irony or fate which has bestowed me the curse, which I crafted into a power. In which I will use it to seize power to control it all. The dark elves and their slavery, they will able to keep it under my rule. With some... differences. If they take sadistic pleasures, they must be... purified.' The fairy kept pondering to himself, calmly looking around.

---

---

Sakura looked at how Ayita was acting like an excitedly oversized child. It was a wonder for the demoness on how the human wasn't even fazed about Aklenroth's announcement last night about hunting her kind. She should be terrified right now, hiding in the shadows and survive on insects and rats until their timely death, but here she was in plain sight and in one of the most populous cities of Avalia. Sakura even remembered about the two of her companions being so easily trusting to other people. Cade should definitely know Sakura was a demon and not all demons were to be trusted, yet he just hugged her yesterday and was even genuinely happy about having her on their side.

Suddenly, this world didn't make sense to Sakura anymore.

However, she was glad about seeing the familiar chaos of Roshmi City once again. "I have been here before, but I believe I hadn't explored the wholeness of this city yet," Sakura admitted to Cade. It was the truth: the only times Sakura had ever been here was when she was tasked by Aklenroth to assassinate someone, and she only did those as quickly and quietly as she could so this was her first time going to the city as a tourist.

Even with her umbrella opened to protect herself from the sun, she could see a handful of people throwing side-glances at her. There were lots of different kinds of races that come and go to this city, all of them have their own stories to tell from the unique adventures and types of lifestyles that they have. Sakura has yet to know what kind of secrets this bustling city had to offer.

"A weapon merchant's store? How barbaric, Cade. Everybody knows spells and hexes are far more superior than swords and whatever," Sakura scoffed with a smirk as she teased the demihuman while they walk. They said you'll get to know a person more once you know what makes them tick, and Sakura was very interested in how the large, burly cat and the strange, naive human will react to being angered. Finally, this day just got better for the demoness.

---

---

Sakura's shades were scattered all over Avalia, each of them tasked on seeking a human and keeping an eye on them. The hard part was they were easily eradicated by light, especially sunlight, so some of them have no choice but to seek out shelter in the shadows. Thankfully, no one could ever see them unless that person was adept was sensing magic as these shikigami have a portion of Sakura's life energy inside them. They could go all night but they can't really do much in the morning. So they hid in dark corners and alleyways, sewages and even empty caves, waiting for the sun to return to its peaceful slumber again.

---

---

Click...
Click...
Click...

Time: Morning
Location: Ra Monde
Interactions: @Dezuel @Hide on mana
Ambience: Ra Monde

---

Ilan was relieved Baraian agreed with his opinions. The faun listened to him attentively, taking in what he was saying. The dark elf moved towards him and placed both hands on his shoulders. For a split second, his senses tingled, ready to make him dart away to safety. His ears perked and his tail shivered. There was no need to be afraid. At first the dark elf had scared him, but he found there was nothing to fear from him. The tension left his body and he looked up at the man, flinching inwardly at the harshness of his red eyes.

Baraian's words moved him. It'd been a while since anyone had spoken of him with such words of praise and kindness. It reminded him of the encouraging speeches of his late grandmother. Ilan smiled softly, looking down at the ground, feeling embarrassed at the amount of attention he was receiving all of a sudden. It was good to know his contribution hadn't gone unnoticed and his strengths were appreciated. His purpose was clear now. To create unity and watch over the rebels who were in need. He was determined to give it his best shot. Ilan stood a little firmer on his feet and took to his new task with renewed energy and spirit.

"I will try my best to keep the rebels united in kindness." "If we save the humans from the dangers of Avalia, maybe they will help us fight the Lich king"
He was speaking more confidently. Ilan started to see a new future. The rebellion was going to be their first step to a better world.

"I'll go and ask Kuroi if he can help us with our search in Roshmi"
Ilan said, repeating the request Baraian gave him. The dark elf wasn't confident in his ability to persuade the fan wielding demi human. Ilan didn't set out to talk Kurio into anything. He hoped the vulpine would see the value of searching for other humans. Ilan was confident he would, Kuroi was equally as observant and intelligent as he was skilled in combat. He came to Belladonna's and his defense in the infirmary, a gesture neither of them would soon forget. Ilan had never properly thanked him for protecting them, without even knowing either Belladonna or him. This would be a great chance to do so.

The faun made his way through the camp, trying to recall where Kuroi had chosen to place his tent. After a while he found it, situated up a little higher, to create a vantage point. It gave Ilan a sense of security, knowing there was always someone watching over him. The faun did not find the vulpine in his usual abode. In fact he wasn't by his tent at all. One of the youths who was under Kuroi's tutelage pointed out he'd already gone into the city with Belladonna. Best to catch up to them soon!

---

Kuroi felt eyes fall on him as he sat there in his meditative state. The ears atop his head twitched and turned in the direction of Belladonna as if having heard her footsteps move towards the way they came from a week ago. His eyes open and met with the young girl's for a minute, catching her silent indication that she wished to go to the world above once again. The vulpine followed her gaze and soon began to follow her after she disappeared alongside her companion. His footsteps were quiet as he inconspicuously made his way above, making sure no eyes set themselves on him for longer than necessary. As he arrived at the surface, he felt the sunlight strike him and fresh air bless his lungs. Letting out a happy exhale, Kuroi walked forth, his arms spread out slightly from his body as if to enjoy the city ambiance and the fresh air he had longed for.

It didn't take the vulpine much time to catch the scent of the human girl again. He pressed forward, quickly but silently until he arrived at Belladonna's group. He crept up behind her and looked over her shoulder at the flyer advertising the ball, raising his eyebrow.

"A ball...? Not the best of times to celebrate anything." He says softly as if to announce his presence.

Time: Morning
Location: Roshimi City
Interaction with: Terneus Andros_@Dezuel

---

There were a thousand things Xenelith wanted to say. The truth for starters. But it would never resonate with someone like Terneus. A man so deep in his own delusion that only the end of the world could pull him out of it. However, that wasn’t the only thing he wanted to do. He pulled an inch of the blade out of its sheath, wanting to force the light elf’s hand. Something deep inside of him wanted to just bloody the man. To cut him down into pieces and make an example of him. Yet in the corner of his eye, he noticed his own troops gripping their own swords. They all looked ready to kill. They were outnumbered though. At best half would die. Xenelith pushed his blade back in and turned away from Terneus. He wouldn’t waste anymore words. Despite the fact that Terneus would no doubt either think or hurl any insult he wanted.

His troops, somewhat disappointed, turned with him and left. Some looked over their shoulders. Begging the Androsian Knights to charge them from behind with challenging looks. “We had your back sir.” One of the soldiers said. “You could’ve taken him. We would’ve stopped those damned knights.” Then another soldier chimed: “Yeah, we shouldn’t let him say those things. The Light Elves lost to us. Besides, he’s probably helping the rebels. You’d be doing our king a service.” Then one more voiced his thoughts: “He insults us, sir. We shouldn’t just let that happen. He needs to be taught a lesson.”

Keeping his rage down was a challenge for Xenelith. He had been keeping a straight face as his own troops were telling him how he should’ve acted. Yet when he knew he was well out of sight and earshot of Terneus he turned to the next soldier that was about to say something, pushed him against the nearest wall. Then he turned to the closest tree of the lane, stretched out his arm and gripped it with his power. His own shadow stretched out towards that of the tree. Black tendrils snaked upwards along the stem. As he tightened the grip with his hand, the bark dried out and the leaves lost their lust, green look. Crumpled, dried leaves began to fall off the tree. First, a few that were carried by the wind, then more, until all the leaves fell off. Leavening nothing but a withered, broken husk of a tree. He released his grip on the power. For a moment everyone looked at him in stunned silence while he caught his breath. He thought it would blow off steam. It didn’t. It just made the snake that coiled around his heart tighten. His gaze turned to the soldier he was still holding firm against the wall.

“If I had attacked, you would've die.” He turned to look at the other dark elves. “All of you would’ve died! And for what? Justice? Retribution? That vile piece of undeserved arrogance would’ve gotten a royal pardon just to keep the peace. Which needs to be kept now more than ever.” Yet he hated that fact. They couldn’t be in an all-out war with the Light Elves. Not now, when more and more fairies and demi-humans were rising up in defiance of the crown. Especially now that Risa rose up. The girl didn’t realize it yet but her last name carried power. The rumors would attract people. If she wanted, she truly could lead a grand rebellion. The Light Elves couldn’t be part of that. Still, something selfish nagged at him. Hoping his lighter kin would just pick up arms en mass. So they could finish what they started a century ago. “And for what? Some meaningless insults. What do you think your ancestors suffered through? They were beaten down every day and night. Not just by some meaningless lunatic! They were spat on by their own family! Their own parents!” He spat in the face of the soldier he was holding against the wall. The elf’s confusion turned into all-out blind rage. The soldier pushed back but Xenelith was stronger. “You feel that!? You feel that anger? That hate? That’s what those before you felt. Constantly! They couldn’t react. They couldn’t strike back. They swallowed it up. All of it. That’s what made them strong. Stronger than you or me.” The man calmed down yet Xenelith could still feel the blazing hatred from the elf’s eyes. “So I’m telling you now, swallow it. All of it. Now.” Slowly he released his grip from the elf. Who didn’t retaliate, though Xenelith knew well enough that he wanted to.

When he felt like the whole situation was sufficiently cooled down he went up towards the nearby railing overlooking a large lane stretching before him. The tree he had withered down stood beside him. “You think I am weak because I let him insult me. The truth is that every insult makes me stronger.” As fun as a hunt for Terneus would be, he wasn’t the prey. The rebels were. Everything in him believed the delusional governor was supporting the traitors. Yet there was no proof, only strong suspicion. "His time will come. Sooner rather than later." Meanwhile, the Princess was still running loose, gathering god knows how many supporters. He needed a way to flush her out. A message she couldn’t ignore.

Leandron step forwards from the row of soldiers. “We are willing to die for you, sir. We are willing to die for Dakka. For the Dark Elves. That’s why we are here. To defend our people.”

Xenelith chuckled. Such was the lofty ideals of youth. They always were willing to die for something. He missed that passion. In him that same fire had died long ago. “Then first be willing to live for it. Your corpse is little use to me. Live to kill another day.”

His mind trailed back towards the tree next to him. “If only I could wither the rebellion.” He said out loud. Then the idea entered his mind.

He looked back at the lane he was just overlooking. It was flanked by so many great, beautiful trees. “I need you to send a message.” He told his dark elves. “No more mercy. Rot the trees and tell the people we are coming for Risa Millina. Tell them the Dark Elves will not let Roshimi flourish until her blood runs in the streets. Wither it all for so long the traitors hide in this city.”

The Dark Elves grinned. “No more mercy.” They repeated. “Wither the trees! Roshimi will not flourish. Roshimi will not flourish!” They spread out, passing on the words. There were enough frustrated Dark Elves in the city to carry on the message. Xenelith returned to his railing overlooking the beautiful lane and plaza at the end of it. By the end of the day the trees would be barren like on Dakka. Brown, dried leaves would be carried by the gentle wind. Together with his message.

Time: Morning.
Location: Roshmi- Kenia's estate.
Interactions: @Potter - Corvina, @Tae - Kenia, @princess - Malachi, @Dezuel - Zelginn.



"Naturally, Malachi, I invited this..." Rei gestured up and down the small figure "...small fox thing to Kenia's home."

"As you know, I have many friends here in Roshmi." Sarcasm oozed off the black haired boy. He tried to slosh away the drool that had gone on him.

"It's as Corvina says, we have no idea who this is and how he got in." Rei said in a dry, manner-of-fact way, pushing away his sarcastic tone.

Rei let himself get pulled away from the ensuing chaos with a noticeably worried Corvina. She continued to ascertain his well-being, "I am alright. Heh, I've been through much worse so don't worry about that." He understood her worries however, whatever- whoever this was knew of their existence now. Three people already knew them, what's one more to the list. Rei couldn't quite tell what the fox's 'goal' was. He clasped her shoulder, trying, in his own way, to reassure her. "It's going to be fine, whoever this is, we'll just deal with it."

"That said." Rei leaned in to whisper to Corvina, still watching the situation unfold, "What do you think of the... fox? Seems hella suspicious." He caught sight of the fox's grin, making him furrow his brows. He found it best to simply observe for now.

Rei tried to cross his arms but caught whiff of his scent, recoiling slightly at the smell of fur and drool, Goddamn it, I'll need another shower later.

Time: Morning
Location:Kyran's House
Interactions:@Dezuel@Tae@Alivefalling@MissCapnCrunch


Risa couldn't help but giggle when Kyran had complimented her and spun her around. She hugged him tightly once he had set her down, extremely grateful for his words. "Oh thank you, Kyran! I really have to thank your mother. She's so lovely and talented. It's funny how much better a pretty dress can make a girl feel sometimes." He stated that he had dresses inside and she watched Elsea comply and go inside with interest towards them. Maybe the boys would find it silly but it had been a hard week for them all. Little things to cheer themselves up were important. Elthrael had seated himself and seemed deep in thought so she figured it'd be best not to disturb him.

Risa gravitated to Dionaea's side, glancing at Kyran for a moment as she did as if to say, 'let's make sure she's okay.'
She had spent a lot of time with Dionaea already this week. She had initially explained how it had not been her fault at all what happened. The dark elf was extremely wrong for what he had done. If protecting the innocent was a crime, then so be it. Risa was determined to find and protect the humans as well as Dionaea's family now. Unfortunately, without gaining some help and more information, the latter could not be done so easily. However, she knew how important Dionaea's family was to her and she had grown close to them herself. It was a priority they could not set aside. She hoped to talk about this once they were sitting. It was important they lay out what they wanted to and their game plan and move away from the unproductive quarreling.

She knelt down as they waited for Elsea and began to focus on the grass. She wasn't much of a chlorokinetic but she had learned a few basics in school. Nothing particularly offensive, though she had been trying to practice this week. Growing flowers and being able to tend the natural life around you was something most fairies had to learn as caretakers of the forest. She probably could not grow an apple tree as fast as Elthrael but smaller things such as berries were easier for her to create. Flowers began to grow and bloom near their feet and she began to pick a few. Moving over to behind Dionaea, she began to brush her fingers through her hair and braid and decorate it. "If you want to borrow something, I can come to help you pick! You dress you have is lovely as well and I'd love to help you shop for some other things to wear. It might be better to buy some more practical clothing for us all even though it's not as fun."

Time: Morning
Location: Roshmi
Interactions: @Helo-Bowyn

---

Torvi had no concept of what was expensive and what wasn't quite yet in this world, but from the look on Bowyn's face it told her that the inn cost quite a bit of money. She felt bad that he was having to use his money to pay for her and she promised herself she'd find a way to pay him back for it all. She did have a small amount of money she'd acquired over their travels and she would begin by using that to pay him back.

She pulled her attention away from the patrons of the bar as she heard Bowyn speak to her. He was right, if she stared too much she'd probably look suspicious. She could probably play it off as she came from a small village that didn't get many of the other races if she needed to. She sat down at the table and chuckled a bit. "You could say that. In fact you can go as far as to say we're the only variety of creatures where I come from." She informed him, keeping her voice somewhat low just as an extra precaution. They truly didn't need any trouble. His next question caused her to smirk just a little bit. "Wings and magic are not necessities to live, believe it or not." She informed him, a bit a snark in her voice. She couldn't blame him for the question though as he obviously wouldn't know much about her world just as she hadn't known anything about his. "I suppose what we have going for us, though, is that we're resilient. We can survive through some of the toughest situations and even thrive. That's what we have going for us." She explained, knowing it probably didn't seem like much and in comparison to this world, hers looked dull. Maybe it was dull, but it was her home.

She took another swig of her mead before she decided to bring up the topic of the ball she'd seen on the flyer. "I saw a flyer on the door for a ball, perhaps we should find a way into it? It might be a good opportunity to try and find some powerful allies. What do you think? Could also pick some pockets and make back some money." She through the last bit in to make it more enticing.

---

---

When Risa came out, speaking in a regal manner, it had really surprised Elsea. She truly had no idea that Risa was of royal descent and it changed her view of the woman ever so slightly. She still saw her as a friend, a close friend now even, but she now felt like Risa was more important to protect. She could understand why Kyran was so protective of her now and she felt a bit bad for scolding him earlier, though at the same time she did feel like he went a bit overboard on things. That was a matter for another day, however, as she decided to head back inside and change from the clothing she had on into something new that Kyran’s mother had provided.

She looked through the pretty dresses and was very tempted to pick one to match how Risa and Dionaea often dressed, but the practical side of her urged her to choose something logical. She didn’t need to draw any more attention than she already would. That and she wanted to have a backup plan just in case her ears failed. So she chose a dress that also sported a hood just in case. She wondered if Dio would also choose to borrow a dress or not.

In the early days of arriving at Kyran’s parents house, Dio had been a wreck and it had made Elsea sad. While she barely knew the girl, it was still awful what had been done to her brothers. She couldn’t imagine how the girl was feeling. It also sparked a bit of anger in her and she knew that if she got the chance she would help make that Dark Elf pay. If he enjoyed setting things on fire so much perhaps he wouldn’t mind being set ablaze himself. The thought made her smirk darkly to herself and she was glad no one was around to see that.

Once she was finished, she headed back outside to join the rest of the group. She gave them a quick smile before speaking. ”Kyran your mother is an angel. I’m so appreciative of all your family is doing for us. I’m ready to go to breakfast whenever.”

Elsea’s New Outfit

---

Time: Morning
Location: Biralei residence
Interaction: @princess Malachi @Dezuel Zelginn @Inertia Rei @Potter Corvina

---

Kenia watched as the child took the bate of the honey cake, glad she wasn’t going to have to use her magic to capture him...at least not yet. She also listened as Corvina and Rei spoke, knowing full well that they had nothing to do with this. They were just in the wrong place at the wrong time. She had to contain a chuckle as Rei’s sarcasm hit her ears. She did quite enjoy the snarkiness of these two. She didn’t quite approve of Malachi seeming to immediately accuse the two of the chaos, but she could understand it to a point.

Her attention was pulled back to the demi-human child as she watched his crocodile tear filled face spin his story. Being a manipulative liar herself she could catch on quickly to when someone else was trying to spin a story. That and she’d spent a week with Malachi, if he’d really wanted to steal some of her wealth than he would have done so awhile ago. Still she found the story amusing and an opportunity in it. ”Oh really? Well what do you have to say for yourself Malachi?” She asked, accusing him just as quickly as he’d accused Cora and Rei. She also swiped up the pouch the boy had thrown and examined the coin inside.

She turned back to Zelginn and crouched down so she was now at his level. She gave him the kindest of smiles, putting on the act of the kind lady he said she was. ”Thank you, little one, for informing me of a thief amongst us.” She started, but then continued. ”Let me give you a word of advice, though. Don’t try to manipulate and lie to a woman who makes a living off of doing just that.” She then held up the pouch he’d thrown and quickly grabbed the sausages from around his neck.

”So let’s start over, I will give both of these back to you along with match the amount that’s in this pouch if you give me your name and the reason why you came here. I suspect that you weren’t lying about being hungry, but I need to make sure that is the only reason you broke into my house. If you refuse to answer truthfully then I will be forced to remove your ability to speak and turn you over to the dark elf guards as a thief and I really don’t want to have to do that. So please, won’t you tell this kind lady your true intentions?” As she spoke, Kenia had started to form barriers of light in each exit from the room just in case the child tried to run. She truly didn’t want to harm the child and would do everything to avoid that, but when it came down to it her first priority was protecting the humans and she’d do what she had to.

After regaining her composure and her moment of amazement upon seeing the city, she heard what Cade said about Sakura's spell.

"I was thinking about a strand of hair or something, Not necessarily it would have to be blood or something, right?" Ayita replied, laughing as she heard Cade mentioning he preferred Sakura using blueberries instead of what she said previously.

It didn't take much that she was indeed still really excited to enter the city, although it was... a bit more discreet than previously. Even though some may think that it was a rather childish reaction, Ayita herself didn't think that. Instead she was simply true to her feelings. She never believed in hiding her own feelings and reactions.

"That's right! I wonder how are the traditional dishes here in Roshmi! Wonderful idea, Cade!" Ayita said with a giggle as she heard Cade mentioning them going somewhere to eat after getting some weapons.

Just like Cade said though, Roshmi was obviously an incredibly big town. Even though Ayita would love to know everything it had to offer, it was highly unlikely. Still, she could experience some of it, having Cade, who knew more about Roshmi than she knew, to guide her.

"Oh, so it will certainly be fun for you too, right Sakura? Cade seems to know more than we do about Roshmi, so I'm sure he can take us to some interesting places, right?" Ayita said to Sakura and then turning to Cade, with a kind smile on her face.

"Magic is honestly something pretty new for me so I can't say much about it, but my people always hunted using weapons and we were always very effective with it. It goes beyond simply swinging it in front of oneself though... The nature has many things to teach us. How the animals move, for example. Be it prey or predator, they all have something we can learn from them and use ourselves." Ayita said after she heard Sakura teasing Cade.

"Anyways, should we go? If we do the things we have to do quickly, we will have more time to know the city. Thanks to our guide, right Cade?" she said, laughing.

A gentle squeeze of the hand comforted Dionaea. She returned the small gesture to Kyran before letting her hand slip back to her side, her thumb hooking onto the side of her waist pouch. "Thank you for the offer Kyran, Your parents have given us more than enough. I think I will take the offer after all, at least until I can purchase something for myself in the city." she nodded, a determined smile across her lips as she felt fingers brush through her hair. Freezing for a moment she almost felt embarrassed and wondered if Risa could feel the tangles and lack of care that she had found herself wallowing in. "Risa.." she started, but cut herself off as the familiar tugs of having her hair braided fell upon her crown. She felt like weeping, but this time with joy. It was clear then that the state of perfected appearances was nothing but a notion that had been implanted in her head by her mother year after year.

"T-thank you!" she spit out, louder than expected as she moved the tail of the braid over to the front of her shoulder, she played with the tail end of it as she looked to Elsea coming out of the house dressed. She looked beautiful, mysterious and finally in a dress! That was the proper way to dress! The young fairy wondered for a second what it would be like to not have to wear a dress constantly, but on the other hand the attire was awfully comfortable. "I'll be back quickly and then we can go." Dionaea commented heading inside to get ready.

She caught herself in a mirror as she cocked her head to the side slightly, admiring the flowers that Risa had intertwined between her long blonde braid. Quickly Kyran's mother brought her a dress, insisting she changed out of her clothes and into the new outfit. It was delicate and so fitting for the young fairy. She twirled feeling light and delicate on her feet. "It's beautiful!" she cooed, as Kyran's mother secured the small headpiece into her hair a nod of appreciate was exchanged as Dionaea started to head back outside, pausing again to look in the mirror she waited, before returning back to Kyran's mother. "I'm sorry, as much as this dress is beautiful.." she started, removing the head piece from her hair gently as not to damage it nor the braid. "This dress is perfect for me, but I am not me any longer." a puzzled look fell across the woman's face as she questioned what the young fairy meant.

About ten minutes went by before the young fairy came out sporting a new outfit. She spoke quickly as she opened the door, "Before you say anything!" she revealed herself more, the form fitting outfit covering most of her body (minus the boots) she the took the cape that had been pinned to her shoulders and wrapped it around her waist making a makeshift skirt of sorts. "I think this will be the perfect disguise, and maybe a new change of pace. Thank you all for accepting me as I am, even the part that didn't feel very much like me at all." she proceeded to give Risa, Kyran, and Elsea a generous embrace.

"Now, let's get breakfast!"

Time: Morning
Location: Roshmi
Interactions:@Potter@Tae@Inertia@Dezuel


Corvina had explained they had nothing to do with it and he nodded as he took in the scene. The homeless kid probably broke in hoping to score some loot. He was empathetic toward the situation, having seen the insane amount of impoverished in the country. The economic state was a mess and most were struggling. Starvation can push even saints to desperation.

"Naturally, Malachi, I invited this..."Malachi glanced over at the sound of Rei's voice, taking amusement in his sarcasm, but he did not let it show. "...small fox thing to Kenia's home." He continued with it until finally getting to the point and agreeing they did not know the child.

"Rei, if you were half as clever as you think you are, you'd be twice as clever as you really are. You waste our time with the nonsense. Just get to the point next time, boy."Malachi retorted, "You two can take some food and prepare to train. This will not interrupt our daily plans. Kenia and I will join you shortly."

Kenia had been feeding the boy who broke in a cake and allowing him to explain to which he started to drag him into a false story. Malachi rolled his eyes as the boy threw a pouch into his hands. He gently placed it into Kenia's hand, which she ended up holding up as she spoke first. He hadn't been all too worried Kenia would believe the child, but it was comforting to know she did not doubt her trust in him. Though he was quite angered, Malachi knew he had to be softer to children. It had been trial and error even when he had fathered himself but he had also been a different man back then.

"I know you feel cornered; it's a clever little story you made up on the spot. Seems like you're quite the survivor."Malachi knelt down to speak to him softly once Kenia had gotten done asking his intentions. "My name is Malachi.We have no interest in getting you in trouble if we can avoid it. Please cooperate with her questions... this time honestly. He wasn't sure how much they could actually trust him enough to keep him around. Was this a terrified child just trying to survive or was this a manipulative little boy who learned from a young age that he could get what he wants if he said the right thing?

Interaction with: Darius, Skar@FunnyGuy, Myra @13org, and Aklenroth

---

Aklenroth guided the group up the long stairs and into one of the large corridors. The blue flames on the torches lining the corridors illuminated the path until they reached a large metal door which was made completely of mithril. He then placed his hand onto the door, which caused a reaction to it, unlocking thousands of small and large locks on the door before it opened. Aklenroth turned to the group. "I will deal with this." He told them.

Upon looking into the room they could see it was filled with piles of treasures of all types and sitting in the middle of the room was a large Sphinx. "Do you have the mind to solve my riddle?" It said in a loud rough voice standing and taking a few steps towards the group. "Two bodies have I, though both joined in one. The more still I stand, the quicker I run. What am I?" The sphinx looked down at them, waiting for someone to reply.

"An hourglass" Aklenroth abruptly said, stepping forward. "Mhmm... Very good my lord, you never cease to fail my riddles." The Sphinx replied with an amused tone. "I need to get ten thousand Amas from my treasury." Aklenroth told the sphinx, stepping into the room completely. "You are welcome to enter." He said, turning to the three standing outside the doorway.

Myra followed Skar closely, carefully watching every movement Aklenroth gave and her surroundings. She still didn't trust him, despite him not showing any hostility.

As they entered the castle, Myra used her camouflage again, walking close to Skar as they continued. The room they arrived was filled with shiny things of all types and in the very middle, a huge, strange creature stood still, asking something to Aklenroth the second they got close to it.

After replying to whatever the creature had asked, Aklenroth turned to the group, saying that they were welcome to enter too. Hesitating, Myra looked to Darius and Skar, waiting for their decision before doing anything else.

“Whoa…” Darius found himself in awe at the treasure trove that filled the opened vault of Aklenroth. Though Darius found the trinkets, artifacts, and chests to be impressive to the eye, he couldn’t bring himself to take his attention off of the large creature in front of the group. It held a pale feminine face but had the body of a lion with large wings. Its extremely weathered appearance seemed off as if it was like one of the undead guards that stood at the bridge from before, except she seemed to be more held together. Her riddle had not been a challenge for the king of Avalia. Aklenroth answered before Darius could even think about the answer for himself. I guess we can enter? He took a hesitant step forward, entering the vault behind Aklenroth and moving passed the sphynx that stared with almost lifeless eyes. Skar, however, remained at the entrance staring intensely at the sphynx with her weapon held tightly. To orcs, sphynx’s meant certain death, mostly due to the fact that most if not all orcs lacked the intellect to solve a sphynx’s riddle. This inability for ambitious orcs to solve the riddles given by sphynxes eventually gave rise to the fear of even approaching the intellectual creatures.

“Darius!” Skar called from the entrance of the vault. Darius turned to her before raising an eyebrow at where she now stood.

“You’re not coming?” Darius questioned. She shook her head while keeping her eyes on the large guardian creature.

“Sphynx is death to orc! Bring my amas. I wait here.” Skar took a step back to add action to her words. She was not going to enter the vault while the sphynx stood guard, even if it had been pacified by Aklenroth himself. Darius looked to the sphynx who held the same neutral expression before looking to Skar and nodding.

“Simple enough… Wait, Myra disappeared? Again?” Darius's face filled with a bit of concern. I guess this is all me huh? The man turned around to face the rest of the vault’s contents. His eyes looked upon the treasures and a few things particularly caught his eye. There was a large golden egg sitting on a white stone pedestal that reminded Darius of the story of Jack and the Beanstalk. Then there was an impressive set of armor adorned on a stone mannequin. “Nice armor you got there.” Darius commented as he continued through the vault and past several shiny treasure chests decorated with too many gems to count. And to think that Skar and I planned on robbing this place… would have definitely failed that riddle though.

When the two reached a specific chest within the vault, Darius wondered what he could accomplish with the 5,000 amas he would soon receive. He had not had time to give his brand new goal of getting humans back to Earth much thought, but it was simple to imagine that doing so would be a complicated feat. It could take months, maybe a few years if these light elves were serious about keeping the other humans in Avalia. And then there was the issue with the DROMs, which had to be destroyed but were hidden even from Aklenroth. Darius audibly cleared his throat to get Aklenroth’s attention. He couldn’t solve this on his own. He had to use all the resources he could with the greatest one right in front of him. “So, I’m planning on splitting my 10,000 with Skar… the orc. I owe her my life, so it’s the least I can do for her. And since I’ll be keeping the rest for myself, what do you think I’ll need going forward. It’s not like I’m some legendary hero… I’m just Darius Barnes, a guy trapped in a world I know almost nothing about.”

"That armor is old; it is my old armor I used to wear before I was king here." Aklenroth said, heading over to it, placing his hand on the chest plating. "That was a very long time ago." He added his face showing a hint of sadness, his late wife had picked it out and memories danced in his head like a distant echo. "But that is enough of that." Aklenroth said, straightening his face. "Well I understand, but I am willing to make some changes in payment in that case. I need you to be ready." He replied to Darius's last statement, walking over towards one of the chests opening it and pulling out two pouches containing five thousand Amas. Aklenroth then closed the chest and walked over to Darius, handing him the pouches. "They are split into five thousand each do as you please." He told the young human. "The rest of your payment Darius will be given after you have done a bit of training here."

Myra could understand Darius’s reaction to the room they had just entered, but she was still incredibly on edge, both regarding Aklenroth and the huge creature in the middle of the room. Myra still didn't know what Aklenroth made to change Darius’s mind and make him trust him so fast, but Myra didn't like it.

Skar's reaction though, was more in line with what Myra was feeling, as she refused to enter the room after looking at the gigantic creature who had just spoken with Aklenroth. Every step Darius gave further inside the castle made it harder for Myra to keep going. Even though Aklenroth wasn't being hostile towards Darius and Skar, she wasn't in a place she knew. Walking further inside his castle, she was on his domain. If he wanted, he could just tell the giant creature to kill them all. And Myra hated to feel helpless and cornered like that. Still, she didn't want just to leave Darius and Skar behind like that. Fighting against her instincts she gave a step forward, going inside the room with Darius and Aklenroth.

Watching both of them from a good distance, she was incredibly alert, looking and reacting to every small movement and sound she didn't know. As she kept following them though, she caught a bit of the conversation between Darius and Aklenroth. The bit she understood about it though, wasn't something she liked to hear. Apparently, Darius had decided to stay with Aklenroth...

“Here? You mean I’m going to… live in this place?” Darius questioned with concern while trying to hold back what he really wanted to say. Darius knew he was in the midst of the one known as both the Dark Lord and the Lich King, so for once in his life, he figured he could watch some of what came out of his mouth. His thoughts… Now those ran freely. Hell to the no! Some of this shit is cool and all, but has this dude ever heard of ambiance? This vault is the best-looking thing here and it’s meant to be locked up! While still holding a look of concern, he took the two pouches of amas, 5,000 in each one. He figured he would have to say something. Now would be a better time than any after the king had just displayed a hint of sadness followed by generosity. On their way back towards the entrance of the vault, he spoke up. “Lord Aklenroth… I first want to thank you for everything and all that you’ve done so far, but... I don’t know how you expect me to live here. Like the… The sun is… It’s not out and it’s morning!” Darius paused for a second as he tried to catch himself. “Listen, I can train here if there’s no other place, but this area can’t stay like this. Humans need sun and fresh air. And I doubt that blue shit in the air is okay to breathe in.” Plus, Myra hates being here. As the two were a few feet from the vault entrance Darius underhand tossed Skar one of the pouches of amas. It landed at her feet with a heavy thud. Skar’s eyes remained on the sphinx as she sheathed her weapon in order to grab the pouch.

Once in her hands, Skar immediately loosened the pouch to take a peek inside. She needed to confirm that she was truly getting her payment. Her eyebrows not only rose, but a grin etched onto her face as she stared at her reward for getting Darius to Aklenroth. It hadn’t been too much trouble as Darius proved to be an interesting creature. He had befriended a demon that loyally stood by his side. Even though Myra was camouflaged, Skar was sure the demon had left her side and entered the vault with the human. He is strong… not like orc, but strong in own way. As much as she found Darius amusing and interesting, she could not remain with him. Her purpose was not to serve but to be free from it. Unless Aklenroth planned to pay Skar a hefty salary, she would surely leave and bid Darius farewell. His awe from seeing the vault was now replaced with uneasiness, and maybe even a hint of sadness.

Aklenroth looked at Darius as he talked to him. "Well, Yes you are going to stay here but not in this section of Morteum there is a housing area on the other side. I cannot trust you yet to go off on your own. I can take you out to places where there is sunshine, but for now, I need you to live in the room I have for you, There is heating, and whatever else you need or want, I can give you. I also want you to know that the stuff in the air is mana residue, it will not harm you and will only provide you with more strength with magic." He said answering his questions and providing information on the fog. "I would like to know what your friends are going to do? Are they leaving or staying here too?" He asked Darius.

Even though Myra followed Darius inside the temple, she still gave a few looks back to Skar after every minute or so. Truth be told, she didn't want to stay in this place. She felt very cornered and threatened not only by Aklenroth's presence, but all the other undead too.

When she heard Darius saying something about living here though, she almost immediately undid her camouflage. It didn't take much to realize that she was shocked with what she heard. Looking to Darius and then to Aklenroth, Myra slowly gave a few steps back towards Skar, still looking at both of them.

She really liked Darius, he was the first person she had ever communicated with, but still, Aklenroth, the undead and the place they were... They were just too different, too against Myra's nature for her to be comfortable there. Stopping right in the middle between Skar, Darius and Aklenroth, she looked at Darius once more, almost as if asking if that was what he really wanted. If he chose to stay, she would respect his choice, but she simply would be going too much against her own nature if she stayed as well...

Darius and Skar's eyes were on Myra when Aklenroth asked about the trio and what demon and orc intended on doing. Though Darius had listened to Aklenroth's words, Myra's posture worried him. He looked to Skar for some kind of answer as he had done before entering the Morteum. This time she was able to answer.

"Skar is leaving." The orc answered directly and without hesitation. She then fearlessly pointed at Aklenroth. "Lord Aklenroth rules Avalia! Does not rule Skar. No one rules Skar." Skar dropped her hand, her gaze never leaving Darius' now softened and uncertain face. "Do not die Darius. Skar must meet you again. Maybe in passing. Maybe in trade. Maybe in battle…" Her words grew softer. "Deal?" She used his phrase and smirked in order for him to get the weak look off of his face.

"Deal…" Darius said with a soft chuckle. Skar's way of saying goodbye was as harsh as her personality, but still fairly sentimental. He didn't know Skar long, but he would never forget her. "We'll meet. And I'll be strong… 'Not as strong as orc', but strong." He replied with her words and returned the smirk.

"Myra…" Skar stared intensely at the demon, usure of how she would act next. "I think you stay. Do not die. You are odd demon that understands less than Skar, but you are... deadly and learning is fast... If stay, help Darius. If not stay… I move to south. Use amas to conquer the land." Skar's vocalized goal caused Darius to raise an eyebrow. He didn't think Skar had much ambition. He had figured she wanted the rewarded amas to simply buy new weapons or another boar to use to carry it. "Do not die. Not until meet again" Skar repeated to the two. There would be no hugs or handshakes from her. She simply said what she needed to before turning from the vault and making her leave. She hoped to see the two again. The thought of it actually made her smile. A smile that would not be known to anyone but herself as she made her way out of the necropolis alone.

"Myra…" Darius could see the discomfort on her face and in her movements. As much as he didn't want to think about it, this all felt like a decision based roleplaying game and he was at the part where he had two paths to take. One was Myra, who was more than just a companion. She was his only true friend in Avalia. Then there was the all powerful king who he needed to cooperate with in order to get all of the humans out of Avalia. Darius gulped. He had to do this.

"You said you can give me things I want? And that you don't trust me?" He faced Myra as he addressed Aklenroth before taking a few steps towards his friend only to turn around to face the lich king. "Well, I don't really trust you either. At first, Myra didn't really like the orcs at Orc Landing, BUT she warmed up to them… to orcs!" Darius crossed his arms at his chest. "Your generous king act isn't working. You look like an elf sure, but it's fake." Darius shook his head towards the floor and peered back up at Aklenroth with a displeased look on his face. I saw what you really look like in the sky. The guards are undead! Your sphinx? That's what it is right? It's undead! And YOU'RE undead… You need me, right? Well, I need Myra. And what we both don't need, are undead. So this space you have for us… No undead! We can use a living proxy instead. You get to have me, but I deal with…"

"Me." An unexpected voice spoke from behind Darius and Myra. When turning to face the owner of the voice, Darius saw what appeared to be an elf, but with ashen hue to his skin. The black-armored man held an aged and hardened look. He was a dark elf that lived through several centuries and it visibly showed. His cold eyes looked at Darius with disdain as he passed. How could this human address Aklenroth in such a way? If Darius hadn't been needed by Aklenroth, he would have slain him on the spot. Kol Varanasi was a servant to Aklenroth tasked to be one of a handful of military advisors and strategists. He performed the customary dark elf salute and held it, his fist hard against his chest "My king, I would be honored to act as your representative! Even to this lowly creature and his pet, carrying your will is a duty I would commit to. In life… and in death. Allow me to hold this privilege, this responsibility! I can have the appropriate guards posted and ready to monitor this human." Kol's words boomed through the vault.

Darius just scowled, but remained silent. Has to be a dark elf… And I guess they're assholes too. Despite Darius' opinion of Kol, the elf appeared to be living. He wasn't sure if it was enough for Myra, but he had to do something. Anything.

"All or nothing huh?" Darius whispered to Myra and possibly to himself.

"Ah, Welcome Kol. I would like you to take Darius and Myra to their room. I have some things to tend to, I am sure you are capable of dealing with them." Aklenroth told his dark elf advisor smirking at Darius ignoring his ill-spoken words. ‘Oh, you are lucky I like you Darius but if you truly think I am not generous I can play that way…’ He then moved to the outside of the door. "Come, Kol will take you to the living quarters." He told the two still inside the vault.

Myra turned towards Skar as she spoke with strong conviction. The message she delivered was incredibly clear, even for Myra. She would leave and there was nothing anyone could say to convince her otherwise. Truth be told, it was sad to see Skar go. She was loud and sometimes not as delicate as Darius, but she was a good friend and cared about both Myra and Darius in her own way, as it became evident by her tone of voice as she talked to them.

Her words, despite her strong voice, were gentler than usual, which was something rather unusual for Skar. To Darius, she told him to not die and as she turned to Myra, she told her to stay with Darius, or go south. Skar had also said something about using amas, which Myra assumed that were the shiny circles that were all around the room and inside the bag she had received, to do something with the land.

As Skar walked away, Myra discreetly raised her hand, sticking her little finger in the gesture Darius had taught her, when making a promise, but she was already going, without looking back. Myra knew that it was unlikely that they would meet each other again. Even though that made her sad, she knew that everyone had their own paths to follow, even Myra and Darius himself. Farewells were sad, but even in friendship, those were things one should be prepared to face, just as Darius had taught her.

Skar's words echoed on Myra's head though... Should she stay with Darius or just follow her own path? She didn't like Aklenroth nor the other undead. Being near them made her feel bad and strange... Uncomfortable... As Darius called her name, looking at her, she knew he could tell what she was thinking, by the way he looked at her and her movements. When Darius suddenly turned to Aklenroth and started talking in a rather angry tone though, Myra became visibly distressed. She knew that he was dangerous...

Amongst all the things Darius said, a few key words caught Myra's attention. No undead was something she could understand and agree, the part when Darius said he needed Myra too and the part about living. Darius said he needed her and wanted her to stay with him. Such things weighted on Myra's mind. She had her own instincts that said for her to get away from there and Aklenroth, but could she really leave Darius, who said he needed her alone?

When a strange voice echoed behind her and Darius though, Myra immediately jumped back, assuming an aggressive posture once more. She had forgotten for a moment she was still where Aklenroth lived. No one but Darius was her 'friend' there. As both the strange new person, who looked just like one of the slender forest people, but with different skin and Aklenroth told them to follow them, Myra looked at Darius, with a quick glance, without taking her eyes off of Aklenroth or the strange new person. Was it really safe to follow this new person? Amongst all the things that were said by Darius and the other two, Myra was still confused. There were many things happening at the same time and she was already very uncomfortable being where she was.

Aklenroth had said something about taking Myra and Darius to the place they would stay, but Myra was still uncertain. Looking at Darius and then to the other two, she waited for his reaction. She didn't know if she was going to stay yet, but she didn't want to leave Darius behind as well... At least not until she was certain he was safe and would be ok.

"I will tend to them, my king. I shall teach him about his… role in all of this. As well as prepare him to be a worthy subject amongst your ranks." Kol answered while following Aklenroth out of the vault.

Darius started to followed but stopped to look at Myra.

"Things should get better. Let's follow." Darius nodded towards Kol and Aklenroth and exited the vault with Myra. Darius' first impression of Kol wasn't positive and was sure they'd butt heads. "Thanks for staying Myra… I don't know what I would have done without you, you know?…" Darius put on a smile for her and for himself too. "And plus, I need to show you some more stuff. I can't leave Avalia until I get a word out of you." Darius said, attempting to shift the mood to a much more positive one. It was his way of coping and helping others do so as well.

Kol and Aklenroth parted ways when the corridor the four were travelling opened up to a hallway on the right. Kol and Aklenroth had murmured about a few things before Kol went to the right. Kol silently escorted the two out of the Necropolis from an entrance that appeared to be on the backside of the structure and Castle Morteum itself. The sun breaking through the clearer sky would be enough to make anyone wince away from it. Kol stopped and faced the two. Before them was another structure that seemed to bathe in the sunlight and surrounded by a lush garden that could put the Flower Kingdom to shame in terms of beauty.

"Welcome to Edena… Home to the garden oasis that never withers. "