"..."

Certainly, she was a Queen, and the one that Fio had sworn to serve. Even if her reasons were largely for curiosity's sake, to understand what was going on and confirm if her claims were truthful, she had sworn such an oath. And Fio at least had respect for the manner in which the taller girl carried and conducted herself.

None of this could be denied.

Perhaps, then, that was why she took those words quite so poorly. Why the Sword Witch found herself raising her hand and snapping her fingers, her cheeks flushing red with embarrassment at the mere insinuation. The circle that opened in the air, producing her sword catalyst directly above the Queen's head, aimed it carefully with the hilt pointed downwards, the pommel angled perfectly.

It fell slowly. Fio didn't want to cause real harm, after all.

But there wouldn't be any ignoring the impact.

"Y-you're a Queen, aren't you?!" exclaimed the Sword Witch, "Th-think about what you say sometimes! Hmph!"

The sword dematerialized moments later, Fio folding her arms firmly as she turned away in a huff.

@Rune_Alchemist

The little fairy wasn't exactly a polite sort, not hesitating to throw barbs at Ethelred's direction. It didn't bother him, however. If anything, in fact, her open, unsubtle nastiness it actually made her less threatening. The Unseelie were a tricky, deceitful lot, and Ethelred would much prefer dealing with one who wore her unpleasant nature for all to see rather than one that could conceal their malicious nature behind a mask of courtesy and cordiality.

While he did not consider this fairy to be particularly dangerous, especially compared to some of the other Unseelie whom he had run afoul of, it would be best to not offend by refusing it. Aside from being unbecoming for a knight (or at least his romantic concept of knighthood that his fellows didn't entirely share), it'd be best to avoid needlessly earning the ire of the twisted fey. At the same time, it'd also be wise to have Fio look at it in case it was a malicious trick.

I thank you for the gift, he replied. "Take care now,". Ethelred neglected to mention that he intended to capture the fairy if she continued to look for trouble in the town. He had no patience for those who took advantage of the kindness of others, or could not be swayed away from making trouble.

With the business of the fairy taken care of, the Frozen Knight headed to the castle. He would need to discuss this intrusion, and the token, with the Queen. The people of the town wouldn't be able to sleep soundly if the Unseelie were sneaking into the town under the knights' noses.

Luna was taken aback by the uproar she has seemingly caused. "Am I single!? Umm, yes!? I've no fiance..." The knightess muttered, slightly embarrassed by the train of questions coming at her. "Pretty? I'm rather skilled with the blade since I've been training since I was young... Why would I kill a giant?" She seemed a little confused by these chains of questioned until Lugh spoke up, reminding her about the meeting. That was right, she needed to get going. How was she going to get out of the crowd? The knightess took a deep breath and then spoke in a sharp, commanding voice. Nothing rude sounding, but enough to catch the attention of everyone around her. "Ladies." The majority of the people in her view were, after all, women... For some reason. "I appreciate your questions, but I must be moving on. I need to attend to our queen. Perhaps we could discuss more later, but let me say this before we leave."

A smile crossed her face as she continued to speak, "I'm pleased to see all of you hale and hearty after that attack, so please continue to be so. Now, pardon me and our squire here." She patted Lugh on the back and walked towards the castle, asking to ladies surrounding her to move aside, politely of course. As they clear the crowd, she gave a sigh. "Gods, that was embarrassing..." Luna said, loud enough for Lugh to hear. "Lugh, you know I didn't fight a hundred of them." She looked slightly frustrated with the youth, "I'd tell the queen... If I thought she'd punish you for those loose lips of yours." In lieu of the Queen's punishment, she gave him a slight poke in the temple. "Jeez."

Location:
Airedale
Mid-morning
Airedale Keep

---

@VitaVitaAR

---

“What’s the matter?” The queen would start to respond, a smile forming. “Stunned by my beauty, hm? Or were you thinking about - gwuh~” The sword came swinging downwards, smacking the queen right in the head. Not that it hurt, or even phased her at all, really. Most other rulers might find such an action the peak of insolence…but well, she didn’t think rulers that thought like that were true rulers.

So, instead, Fio would be treated to laughter as the Queen would start to leave, following behind Fio as they headed back towards Airedale.

---

@Pyromania99

---

“...Okay! Please take care, Lady Luna!” The crowd, would slowly start to disperse. Even if they wanted to pester Luna more or talk with her more, they at least understood that getting in her way would probably be a bad idea. Lugh would give a small frown at being pat on the head, shaking his head a bit to protest as he and Luna would start to leave.

“But you fought a lot-mweh.” The young Tuatha recoiled slightly from the poke on the forehead, and proceeded to pout just ever so slightly. “Luna mean…” The two would have no more problems back on their way to the meeting room.

---

@Crimson Paladin

---

“A-ah!? H-hey you just gonna leave?” The fairy blinked, seeming a bit surprised. “Hah…well alright! Guess I’ll just hang around then! See ya ice-butt!” The small fairy would laugh as Ethelred left…well, it would probably be fine. This fairy didn’t seem overly dangerous to start with, now did it? Still, maybe that’s what it wanted Ethelred to think. Regardless, the Ice Knight would soon find himself heading back to the keep to meet with the Queen.

---

@A Lowly Wretch@Guy0fV4lor@Pyromania99@Crimson Paladin@VitaVitaAR

---

As Od made her curt reply, Vyrell’s face, normally bereft of any emotion other than a friendly smile, would falter ever so slightly as his lips would turn downwards just slightly. It was barely noticeable, but it happened nonetheless. He’d look away from Od, turning his attention back towards the map he was looking over as Luna and Lugh would filter into the room.

“Lets say the Queen tasked you with putting out a fire, Od.” He’d begin as he’d start making a few more marks on the map, making a line marking the extend of Harzel’s easten territory. “But when you did, that fire kept returning the next day. Would you merely keep putting it out daily, or look for the cause of it?” Not that he assumed that Od would catch the meaning of his words so he’d continue, the telltale cold that Ethelred brought with him signaling the other knights arrival. “Similarly, say, for instance, you arrive on scene but Elnith is nowhere to be found? Only dead Harzel knights. Or you do find Elnith, yet the Fomorian she’s fighting is impervious to her unavoidable blade?” He’d look up from the table. “Learning the cause-”

“That’s enough, Vyrell,” Before he could finish his statements, however - a voice, commanding and heavy in its presence fell upon the room. “You can finish lecturing Od later. We have more important matters now.” Heavy footfalls soon followed, the Queen calmly walking into the room. Her gold armor somehow, seeming to shine even in the interior as she’d pass by Reinhardt’s seat, moving to place herself at the front of the table. It was a stark contrast, Fio would note from her casualness earlier. The laughter had stopped by the time they had returned to Airedale, and had instead been replaced with what could only be described with a firm, commanding presence...though it was slightly hampered by a small mark on her forehead where Fio's blade had bonked her, but it was probably best not to ask.

“Apologies…I have set everything up, but you can probably explain better.”

“Very well.” Sorcha would say, turning to face and greet her Knights.
“Everyone is here…so we shall begin. About, mhm, two months ago, there was an attack on a village near Harzelslack’s eastern border. Nothing unusual about that, even if…it was particularly devastating.” She’d point to the northernmost village that had been marked by Vyrell. “Merely a day later, a second village was sacked, razed to the ground similarly as the first. For the next three days it seemed whatever it was, had left or decided its had its fill. However, three days later…a village on the very southern edge of Albion was razed in a similar fashion. Two days later, another village a bit further north had been razed. Silence for another four days, then another village had been razed, then only two days later another village in the south met the same fate. I sent a few scouts to gather information after the fourth village had been razed. The territory there may not be under my express domain as of yet…but they are people of Albion regardless, and I can not turn a blind eye to such blatant attacks and disrespect.” Sorcha would state calmly, making sure each and every one of her words carried as much weight and as much clarity as the last, ensuring that every knight here understood.



“As soon as they returned. They informed me of what they had gathered from the villagers that had managed to escape. A terribly powerful fomorian is apparently the culprit who possesses the ability to command fire and feasts on humans with a skin as black as night. Needless to say, I immediately dispatched Elnith to deal with this threat. That was two weeks ago.” She would pause, letting the information sink in for a few seconds. “I’m sure you are all aware of Elnith’s condition. I do not believe it has consumed her…at least not fully. But we do not know what has happened and she has yet to send word of what has. As such, I will be sending three of you int investigate that matter. I was originally going to go myself, but the attack on Airedale this morning has disrupted the plans.”

“Speaking of the bandits,” Vyrell interrupted. “I’ll send a courier to the Lightsword family for information on their operations in the area around the Giants graveyard and and Ithica lake.”

“Ethelred, Reinhardt, Od. I will be sending you to find out what happened with Elnith. As its so close to Harzel border, I don’t need to tell you to be careful. I do not seek conflict with them as of now, at least. Reinhardt, I am putting you in charge for that endeavor. I myself will be taking Luna and Fio to see if we can’t find out something about these bandits.”

“Me and Lugh will stay behind to ensure Airedale’s safety.” Vyrell continued. “And you three looking for Elnith…be careful. Whatever this thing is, its highly dangerous and potentially incredibly fast as well, seeing how far it is able to travel in barely a few days.”

“Unless there is anything you need, my Knights, then we should move sooner than later. No doubt if Elnith has run into trouble with Harzel knights, they would not care if she is in the service of myself. Nay, if anything, they would see it as an easy excuse to disparage me.”

Od

Vyrell's examples were strange and seemed to lack origin. Odd simply looked at him with a confused cant to her brow. What to do if a fire came back each time you put it out? Submerge what burns in water or sand. If the fire continues to burn atop the water or upon the sand then it's probably magical in which case a wizard may need to be sought.

Much the same was true of his other examples. If Elneth could not be found then they would need to track her. The freshness of the bodies as well as tracks leaving the scene would serve well for finding her, as would any potential witnesses should any still live. As with the fomorian if it could not be pierced by an unavoidable blade then the obvious answer would be to strike it with a stronger weapon. Failing that another solution would be instead of piercing it's skin she'd break it's bones. Failing that she'd wrestle it down and bury it alive.

She could go down the list of things she'd do if her foe was immune to Elnith's blade but she failed to see what point Vyrell's exercise was mean-

The moment the queen stepped into the room Od's long train of thought screeched to a halt and she immediately knelt before her. She emptied her mind and focused solely on what the queen was saying, paying her her undivided attention.

_
So the mission was clear. She'd be seeking out Elnith under the command of Reinhardt.

"As you command, my majesty."

Was all she said, her face cold and serious as the queen's word was law. She wouldn't even think to question her decision, she wouldn't even acknowledge what she felt about the issue. Her feelings were beneath the will of the queen, a distraction.

That being said she awaited her queens dismissal before she'd embark upon her task.

Her will would be done.

The third village...that's a familiar location.

Ethelred raised an eyebrow beneath his helmet he saw where one of the attacked villages was on the map- just a short distance from the ruins of his family's castle. Long ago, the protection of that village would've been the duty of his family and their retainers. Now, a century later, it looked like he might end up avenging them.

According to the queen it was a Fomorian that was responsible, seemingly rushing up and down from coast to coast and razing villages in its path with unnatural speed and power over fire. With that in mind, it was a wise choice for the queen to send Ethelred along- if they encountered it, the Ice Knight's powers and fearsome mount should prove useful against the creature.

As for what they'd be facing, that was less clear. For all that Sorcha had told them, it was possible that they could run into this Fomorian, the Harzel knights, or even Elnith herself, driven into a frenzy by her curse. The three of them could probably defeat and subdue her, but it could prove difficult- Elnith was a berserker in battle, and her magical blade always reached its target. Perhaps that was why Sorcha was sending these particular three knights, because Ethelred's armor, Od's regeneration, and Reinhardt's seeming invulnerability would make them more capable of withstanding a blade that always found its mark. Ethelred hoped it wouldn't come to that, however- he always held out hope that his fellow fey-cursed knight would be able to hold back the curse afflicting her.

"My liege, have there been any attacks since you sent Elnith?" he asked the Queen, desiring more information about their mission. "Any possible evidence as to whether or not she has managed to slay the Fomorian?"

@Rune_Alchemist

As Luna and Lugh got to the room with the rest, Vyrell seemed to have his hands full with Od. Well a disciplinarian by nature so she didn't really say much in that regard. Od was never really in a good headspace, realistically. Soon after, however, the Queen entered with Fio. Luna gave the Mage a smile, wanting to thank her for the help earlier but, that was something for later. For now, it was time to listen. It was a lot to take in, but there was a Fomorian threat in the west, one that not even Elnith seems to have taken care of, that Od, Reinhardt and Ethelred would be in charge of. Then, there was her and Fio accompanying the Queen in the east.

"I can see why you would have me join you in the east." Luna commented with a small amount of a giggle. "I know all the patrol paths that are typically used. In fact..." On the map, she points to a spot along the river. "There's a small wooden fort around here. Usually there's a patrol or two based here for rest. I've spent many nights there myself, I'm sure they could accomodate use a night or two on our way." Luna added, figuring a safe place for rest would be helpful. "Not that there haven't been attacks on it, but it tends to be fairly well manned."

Luna put her hand to her chin in thought, thinking if there was much more to add. Nothing that couldn't be said on the road. Though, she still needed to thank their precious sword conjuring witch. So she walked over to the woman and gave her a firm slap on that back. Nothing so much it'd hurt but maybe move her upper body a small bit. "Thanks for the help back there at the walls. Your blades were a great help against all those bandits. I look forward to traveling with you and Her Majesty. With us two, Her Majesty has nothing to worry about, right?" Luna told the smaller girl, puffing up her chest a small bit. She was obviously very confident in her own skills.

As Fio followed along with the Queen, she let out a huff. Really, for someone saying she's Queen to behave like that...

She paused only briefly to call Mieka to her side, as at the moment the blonde-haired doll was the only one she felt was level-headed enough to accompany her, before continuing along behind Sorcha.

At the very least, the Queen took a far more royal bearing when they arrived.

That much she could approve of.

Mieka seated on her shoulder, the Sword Witch listened to the Queen's words. So villages were being razed on the border, then? Not only that, but it appeared that it was a midnight-skinned Fomorian who devoured human beings. An utterly vile individual deserving of not the slightest hint of mercy.

But perhaps even more concerning was the seeming disappearance of the Knight Elnith. There was a part of Fio, the more analytical part, that had desired on some level to understand the curse that had been placed on the lady knight. And perhaps, a desire to ensure that it did not consume her. Not only for Elnith herself, but for the wellbeing of those around her. Given the situation, it was difficult not to find the information that she had seemingly disappeared concerning.

And there was still the matter of these bandits, apparently led by the fomorian, to attend to.

It seemed as if that was where she would be taken. And in company of the Queen herself as well. Of course, this worked well with her desire to understand just who the Queen was and why she operated as she did, so there wasn't much to complain abou-

"Kuh!"

A hand striking her back. Immediately the petite witch stumbled, nearly falling forward before barely managing to catch herself, one hand flying to her shoulder to stop the surprised Mieka from careening downwards face-first.

Her other hand keeping her hat from falling off, the Fio cast a glare back over her shoulder as she straightened.

"... Certainly, she doesn't have anything to worry about," she began, her tone rather curt, "But I think I might if your idea of being thankful is nearly knocking me on my face. Hmph. Be more careful!"

@Rune_Alchemist@Pyromania99

---

@Rune_Alchemist@A Lowly Wretch@Pyromania99@Crimson Paladin@VitaVitaAR

Reinhart itched his nose with the back of his hand as the queen entered the strategy room. There it was again-- that oddly familiar smell... Neither unpleasant nor particularly overpowering; but hard not to notice in such a small and poorly-ventilated room. Though the Knight was unsure of the fragrance's origin; be it some form of perfume or otherwise, it caused the vaguest feeling that he was failing to recall something...

Reinhardt snapped his attention back to the task at hand-- he'd have plenty of time to ponder such things later. Crossing his arms and shifting his weight slightly, the Knight would listen intently what information the Queen offered. By the time the briefing had concluded, Reinhardt had already taken up his helmet once more and presented the Queen with a well-disciplined chest salute.

"Though I find my assignment as leader of the operation to retrieve Elnith unexpected-- I will not betray your expectations my Queen. Rest assured, she shall be returned safely."

With time being of the essence; and daylight being of limited supply, Reinhardt promptly turned to exit the room, stopping only briefly to address the two he'd soon have under his command. "Od. Ethelred. Conclude any business you need to attend to quickly, we'll be departing from the North gate within the hour."

With that-- Reinhardt would hurriedly exit, wasting not a single moment more to begin preparations for departure.

---

Before long, Reinhardt stood at the Northern gate-- holding the reigns of two horses. In the hour he'd allotted to the others, he'd had his Aketon mended, bought a small beltpouch, scavenged no less than seven blades (and a handax) from what remained of the morning's raiding party, plotted the course he and the others would take, and gathered the supplies necessary for the upcoming journey. The planned route was simple-- the Knights were to hug the coastline East past Hrelskins' Fall, stopping briefly at Redwater Point for rest and resupply, before heading Northeast to the ruins of the most recently attacked settlement; where Elnith likely started her hunt.

Hopefully-- they'd be able to track her from there.

Location:
Airedale
Mid-morning
Airedale Keep

---

@A Lowly Wretch@Guy0fV4lor@Pyromania99@Crimson Paladin@VitaVitaAR

---

“You have my utmost confidence in your abilities, Reinhardt.” Sorcha replied to her appointed proxy as she’d turn her head towards Ethelred. “I sent her to a village that was most recently sacked. As far as I am aware, no more have been razed since then but it could simply be resting or laying low since it has brought attention to itself.” She’d point to a post on the table. “I’ll be sending you to that village first. See if there’s some clue of her there since that is where she was seen last. Any other information…I am not sure I have. And Od,” She’d look up from the table towards the other knight. “To be clear, Reinhardt is your superior officer in this endeavor. Treat his words as you would mine.”

Taking one last look around the room, she’d give them all an affirmative nod.

“That will be all. I have faith that you three will be able to bring Elnith back…or give her a proper sendoff if that is what is needed. Now then,” She’d turn to Luna and Fio. “Grab anything you two need. We’ll be leaving the once we send a courier to house Lightsword.”

---

@A Lowly Wretch@Guy0fV4lor@Crimson Paladin

---

Location:
Redwater Point
Mid-Morning

---

And so the trio of knights set off. Ethelred, Od, and Reinhardt. They would head west - heading between Hrelskins’ Fall and the Southern Sea. It wouldn’t be long until they would be out of the cold temperatures of Airedale and into the much more comfortable of southern Albion. Thankfully the first leg of their journey was done without any interruptions or trouble. They would reach a comfortable spot to camp on the edge of the lake…only a few fairies attempting to bother them.

The second was a bit more eventful. The start would be easy enough, but as the day dragged on and noon would turn into evening, they would find themselves attacked by a small band of Fomorians. Small, goblin like creatures and a few odd many-headed hunting dogs with scraggly, black fur that vomited plague. Dispatched with ease, but…they had come from the direction of Redwater Point.

Overall, It would take the trio of knights two and a half days to reach their first destination of Redwater point. They would be greeted by the sight of a lively village from their vantage of approaching from the eastern end.

Wooden walls had been constructed around the village, nothing unusual. Most villages had some manner of walls, though Airedales were one of the few that were actually fully fortified. As they’d approach the gate, a guard would halt them - concerned with Ethelred’s appearance it seemed, but after a brief discussion they’d be let into the town proper.

“Make no trouble,” One of the guards would say. “By the way, Fomorian attacks have increased around here recently. I’m sure the Mayor would pay well for their heads if your lookin’ for some work.” A guard would off-handedly mention as they’d pass into the city. “And stay away from those ruins if you know what’s good for you. Place is full of bad stuff. And if your lookin’ for a place to keep your steeds,” He’d motion to a Tavern and Inn near the gate. “The soggy pumpkin can probably take you…” He’d look at Ethelred’s horse. “...might want to keep that uh, steed of yours out of sight though. I don’t want to have to deal with spooked civilians any more than I have too.”

The town otherwise seemed fairly normal. They could see the place ‘soggy pumpkin’ he had mentioned just off the road. The central market was lively, people selling fish, jewelry, and it seemed like one could probably find a number of things here. A large stone building set on a slightly elevated piece of near the western end of the town. Likely the mayors place.

Well, they were free now. Maybe they could find some rumors or information on Elnith or maybe even Harzelslack if possible.

---

Location:
Southern Giants Rest
Late afternoon
@Pyromania99@VitaVitaAR

---

The Queens’ entourage would have a far less eventful journey. No fey or Fomorian would cross their path. The first leg of their journey would see them traveling North West, between Mt. Sliabh and Hrelskin’s Fall. They would first make camp in the foothills of the mountain where the Queen would tell a few stories around the campfire to the both of them after drinking quite a bit - namely about the old king and about a particular battle he had with a very angry rabbit. It was hard to tell if that was fact or fiction from how much she had been drinking though.

The next day would take them west around the Mountain, where they’d pass a few Tuatha hunters. The two would flee at the sight of the humans, but otherwise was uneventful. Soon, trees and rolling hills would give way to a warmer land…or at least, it should have. A subtle chill still hun in the air. Rising above the trees one could see monolithic stones, thrust into the ground like spears in the distance. A mist hung over the air. They had made it to the southern edge of Giants rest…and as evening would fall upon Albion they would near their destination. Sorcha had let Luna lead the way since she was more familiar with the land than she was.

“So tell me, Luna, what is your family like?” Sorcha asked the knight as they’d slowly travel along the path. “I hear they are fairly honorable people and brave warriors and that I have them to thank for taking care of many of the bandits in the region.” She’d look to the knight. “I’m curious about this Elder Beast that supposedly blessed your family, too.”

---

@Rune_Alchemist@A Lowly Wretch@Crimson Paladin

Reinhardt would spend a majority of the journey quietly, only speaking when issuing orders to his fellows or making callouts regarding any movement he spotted ahead of the party. Truthfully, he'd expected to encounter a bit more trouble than a few Unseelie and a single Fomorian hunting party... But perhaps that was just his upbringing in the Laughing Wood causing him to expect as much.

It was still admittedly troubling that Fomorians were increasing their activity so near to yet another settlement.

Was it perhaps linked to the Midnight-Skinned Fomorian?

"The information is appreciated. Thank you." Reinhardt replied to the guard as the trio would enter the town. Dismounting his horse, he'd offer his steed's reigns to Ethelred, alongside a small pouch of coinage. "The two of you can spend your time here as you like, but remember that we wont be staying long and keep your ear to the ground for anything regarding current happenings. Ethelred-- I want you to put our horses up at The Soggy Pumpkin, and purchase us some provisions from the market with these funds... In the meantime I'm going to see if the Mayor has any recent information on Elnith or the Midnight-Skinned Fomorian. I'll find the both of you when it's time to leave."

Before he'd separate from the others Reinhardt awaited any responses or questions the two may have had-- then the young knight would make his way toward the Mayor's estate. As Reinhardt would approach the stone building, he would notice that although there weren't any gates or walls around the property, the town's Mayor was at least cautious enough to have a few guards patrolling the perimeter of the property-- two of which immediately moving to intercept the heavily armed stranger walking toward the Mayor's residence...

And thus, an introduction was in order.

"Good morning gentlemen-- I am Sir Elias von Reinhardt of her Majesty Sorcha's Royal Knights... Is the Mayor available? I'd like to speak with him."

The days passed fairly quickly since their departure from Airedale. Traveling, trading stories, more traveling. She was on the road patrolling much of the time, but now she was traveling back home with a Queen and a witch. It was an interesting situation she never thought she'd encounter when she was younger. Leading the way, as she recognized the area quite well, Luna marched with joy thinking about how they would soon be home. There was little doubt in her mind that her father would throw a feast to celebrate the Queen and his daughter's arrival.

Still, that was for days to come. For now, it was time to rest. The night prior the Queen had shared with her and Fio about a certain rabbit and king's duel, though she had to wonder how much of that was real. No, as they sat around the fire, Queen Sorcha asked her to tell of her family and the Elder Beast that they were blessed by. "My, my. Curious are you, Your Highness?" Luna asked, taking a drink. "Where to start, well. My father is the Lord, of course. He's a good man, though he can be a little overbearing when it comes to mother or one of us children. My eldest brother is a fairly dignified individual, though... When I see him, forgive me if I pull him aside a moment." Luna gave a small, nervous laugh before taking a sip of her drink and continuing. "My second eldest brother, well, he can be a bit rough and he's focused solely on his skill with a blade but he's a good guy, if not a bit of a... Womanizer? Or he likes to think he is. Just... Keep an eye on him if you meet him."

She took a breath and sighed a bit, worried about him meeting the Queen and Fio. "Then there are my two younger siblings. My little brother is fairly intelligent, though before I left it seemed like he was focused on learning the blade. And then my sister. She's quite the dear. Much more girly than me, that's for sure. I wouldn't be surprised if she decided to hone our family's Light Magic." Luna smiled as she took another drink. "Of course, there are a few people outside my immediate family. A couple of my aunts and uncles and cousins but it wouldn't be too likely to meet them I don't think." She then looked to Sorcha after that, "And like you suggested, we charge ourselves with clearing a large area of bandits. Eliminating camps and making sure there isn't a chance for them to reassemble. We only have so many hands of course, so we are limited in some capacity, but we do attempt to clear from the castle and along the river as well as some of the more frequented roads and the villages we know of."

She cleared her throat. "But enough of that. You're interested about our heritage now, are you?" She asked, a bright smile crossing her face. "I'm not sure how much you know, but this is the story of the beginning of the House of Lightsword." The Knightess took a breath before continuing. "The story goes that, Long ago we were but a tribe of warriors not far from here. One of the many tribes that were struggling against each other at the time. Our clan, at the time, was fighting a losing war. We lost much ground until we were pushed to our final hold, north of Giant's Rest. It was then, a being of bright light appeared and drove the invaders back. She gifted us with her power and we countered, forcing the enemy to surrender as we brought our troops to surround their hold. We integrated them and they too fought with us after that."

"This being that helped us came to be known as Lucilia. She lead us in battle until, finally, she fell in battle. On her deathbed, she granted her powers to the chief of the tribe and his descendants. The Lightswords. According to the tale, it's where we get our affinity for Light Magic and our strength as well. Though, we seem to also be slightly better at braving the cold than most and that seems to be our giant blood." Luna said, informing the two women with her. She took a breath, happy to tell the tale yet again. "Many of the details have been lost to time though, it would seem. So it's hard to say what's true and not, but I for one believe that we were gifted with something by Lucilia."

As Ethelred walked to the tavern, reins of the horses in his hand, he looked over the town. Seeing Redwater Point again was bittersweet. A century ago, it had been under the rule and protection of his family. Today, it was ruled by the man that had crushed his family. He didn't recognize any of the buildings, but the land that they sat upon was familiar to him. Either way, it was good to see that the town was still standing after all these years, and evidently hadn't been yet attacked by the troublesome fomorian.

Unsurprisingly, he people seemed to have been unsettled by the knight's strange appearance. He didn't have much of a choice- the armor didn't come off, and even when damaged, it simply regrew- in fact, it had already fully regenerated the damage that Cecilia's enchanted arrows had inflicted upon it. Normally it might have bothered him a bit, he considered it a bit of a windfall. The more they worried about his crystalline armored form, the fewer questions they'd ask about the man within it. If the Alistains found out that the kin of their old enemies was still alive, they could make trouble and would likely resist any attempt by Queen Sorcha to bring this region under her rule. It was unlikely that some town guards would pose too much trouble for the Frozen Knight, and it would give him an excuse to take up arms against Lord Alistain, but in the current circumstances, they did not need further complications in their mission.

For now, he'd have to focus on his mission. Still, it didn't mean he couldn't gather information pertinent to his long-term goals of obtaining justice for his kin.

Ethelred reached the inn and knocked on the door. Assuming that the innkeeper wasn't too fussy about the knight's appearance, he'd offload the horses to be kept in the inn's stables, then would head to the trader in town. His own horse had been tied to a tree outside of the town due to its frightening appearance and frankly, it was for the best. Between both its aggressive personality and its ice powers, it was best for everyone that the horse not be handled by the locals.

After the horses had been taken care of, Ethelred headed to the market to purchase the provisions that Reinhardt requested. Again, there was some concern that he might have some difficulty dealing with the traders due to his frozen armor. While he was at the market, he'd try to ask the merchants how the current rulers were treating them and how they were managing the town. It might prove to be an uphill battle to get anyone to speak ill of the rulers within hearing distance of the guards, especially to a man of an alarming appearance. He considered slipping them some extra coin to loosen their lips, but Reinhardt would definitely not approve of such a misuse of their funds.

Perhaps they'd be more willing to trust them after the knights ensured that the fomorian was dealt with...

Having elected to choose Mieka for the doll to travel along with her, as the others had shown considerable misbehavior in the leadup to their departure, Fio had taken this opportunity to carefully observe the Queen as they travelled. It hadn't shown her much information that she didn't already known, and even sending Mieka to get a peak at her when Fio herself couldn't wasn't particularly useful either.

... That, and when Mieka reported she had seen Sorcha undressing and bathing one night, Fio had immediately ceased this method of observation upon realizing just how perverse it seemed.

Still, it was an opportunity to try and learn what the Queen's motivations were.

How did she come to think she was a reincarnation? And why did she pursue any of this?

These were things that the Sword Witch wanted to know.

The story of the Lightsword family was certainly not uninteresting, but at least some of it was information that the petite girl had been able to glean prior, or in the course of her research on the family lines of the others who had come to serve Sorcha. Still, to hear it directly from Luna's mouth was a somewhat different experience. Fio was quite curious about the Elder Beast that had blessed the lady knight's family.

But at the moment, she wanted to take the opportunity to learn more from Sorcha, directly from her.

Adjusting Mieka's position on her shoulder slightly, having been listening to Luna's story quietly until now, her attention soon shifted to the Queen.

"While we're sharing stories," began Fio, "I think it is only fair you tell us a little of yourself, your highness. How did you come to understand your were a reincarnation of the King? Just what motivated you to take the throne? You've never told me."

Her desire to know these facts rather then simply hear a story was hardly a subtle one.

@Rune_Alchemist@Pyromania99

Location:

---

Location:
Redwater Point
Mid-Morning

---

It was, by all means, an average day. The sun was doing its slow climb into the sky, warming the cold land from its chilly night and the monsters that haunted it. People moving about. As the group split to their respective tasks, they may have noticed a particularly large humanoid, dressed in a thick white coat made of some form of leather with similarly colored boots upon their feet…yet oddly, the flesh on their hands seemed to be of a thick, red color. Even more so, the entire upper body of their face was covered by a hood, with thick bandages seemingly covering most of the rest.

“Oh, good morning my lord.” A shopkeep would greet this gargantuan man. “Rare to see you out so early!”

“Ah, well, sometimes one just wishes to take a walk among the sun.” His raspy, deep voice would rumble in response. “That and, well, I heard my grandson became a squire! Thought I might get him a present for when I see him again!”

“Oh, you have a grandson? You don’t seem old enough too, aha!”

“I assure you, age is something I’m very familiar with even if my body is quite stout.” He’d laugh, turning his head towards a young woman passing by. The scent of the old fey met his nose. Intoxicating. Pure. Was it her? His escaped subject!? How was…how did - no it didn’t matter. It didn’t…matter at all. “Hmm…but if you’ll excuse me, I just remembered something I have to do…”

“No trouble at all! I’ll stay open later just for you if I have too!”

“Ah, well thank you.” He would be gone before any of the knights could question him.

---

@Cu Chulainn@Guy0fV4lor@Crimson Paladin

---

Reinhardt approached the Mayor’s house, stopped by two of the guards that were patrolling. They bore no crest, aside from the city emblem of Redwater - a red fish emblazoned upon a shield of water. Local, then, and not affiliated with any higher lord. Only the Mayor here, likely. Upon hearing his question though, the two men narrowed their eyes at him.

“Oh yeah? And what’s that matter to us?” The older looking one among them asked.

“An awful long way from your mothers house.” The younger one said with a grunt. “Go run back home to your so-called queen's bosom. She’ll be better suited to that sorta thing I bet.” Clearly, these men had both no intention of letting him pass, let alone no love - or respect - for that matter for Sorcha. It was, perhaps no surprise really. Sorcha wasn’t likely the only one to have proclaimed themselves as some sort of queen or ruler…not that it would excuse their behavior.

Ethelred would have a bit of an easier time of it. The he was obviously startled by Ethelred’s appearance, after a bit of talking and realizing he wasn’t some fomorian monster about to murder him, he was much more jovial and friendly. He’d be stopped by a patrol of guards on the way out, but the situation would be quickly diffused after a bit of talking and explanation. The merchants were a bit more friendly - they’d gasp and talk about his appearance but if he was there to spend it didn’t seem like many had much of a fuss beyond an initial gasp.

And, they would have some very interesting things to say about their current lord and happenings. The current lord was Bernard Alistain, cooped up in his castle near Harzelslack. Apparently he was in talks to officially swear fealty to lord Harzelslack, though they hadn’t completely gone through yet. The villagers were also pretty scared of the so Fomorian attacks. They had come very close, and even if Redwater was a fairly well defended place…it likely wouldn’t be good if it did come here. There was also the matter of the smaller fomorians like they had run into on the way here - the increase in attacks lately had them all on edge.

Lastly, and perhaps most interestingly…Lord Alistan had in fact, sent someone to help protect the town. A tall, burly man who simply went by the name of ’Beimnech’. Apparently someone who was an expert on Fomorians. He was staying with the Mayor. The moment Ethelred would turn to leave…

A scream.

Blood.

A goblin sized fomorian with black skin, pointed ears and wearing rudimentary armor burst furth from an alleyway. It was soon accompanied by several others. More of those grotesque dog things that they had saw the other day. Dozens of mouths gnashing open and close, curse-ridden saliva oozing from their mouths as dozens of eyes frantically looked around. Ensued by chaos, the civilians began screaming and running.

Whenever Reinhardt would make his reply to the guards, supposing he had one - faster than he could react, there was a shout, a black object whizzed by, slamming into his torso. A gurgled cry for help as a vaguely human sized creature began ripping and tearing every inch of flesh and bone from the mans face, laughing maniacally before using its powerful muscles to sling the man to the side, before leaping towards the other man.

Reinhardt would find fivel more gunning for him! Not only that, a number of small goblins and cursed mutts like they had seen earlier were making havoc in the streets!

---

@Pyromania99@VitaVitaAR@FrogRFlowR
Location:
Southern Giants Rest
Late afternoon

---

“I see, I see.” Sorcha would respond to Luna. It was hard to tell what she was thinking, but from the small frown on her lips it was either something she was thinking hard about herself, or perhaps some manner of displeased by. “I’m curious as to why an Elder Beast would choose to help humans without gain on its own. Granted they all can be rather fickle and one beast never thinks the same as others…” She’d sigh, dropping the subject as Fio would pose her own question.

Hm.

“Oh? Curious about me, are we Fio? I’m surprised, aside from Vyrell none have asked me.” She’d smile…though it’d quickly fade into a thoughtful hum. No doubt she was briefly pondering messing with Fio and quickly decided against it. “I don’t have some artifact, or some lineage like others might. In fact I have nothing I can give anyone for proof.” She’d soon reply. “Except…memories. I remember them. All of them. Well, sort of. Its a little difficult to explain, but…I have his memories. Well, my memories I guess.” The queen would glance away from the two, off towards the setting sun, the horse she was riding slowly coming to a halt.

Her hands tightened on the reigns. Briefly it seemed like she was going to continue speaking, but there was a sound of clashing steel. Shouts of men. They were near the fort and Lightsword territory.

“...Luna! Fio! I think they’ve got a welcome party for us!” The queen laughed, spurring the steed onwards, towards the sounds of battle. “I’ll have to thank your brothers for the warm welcome!”

---

The fort was but a simple thing. Several stories high, the base primarily made of tough stone with the upper floors being made of wood. Honestly, it was barely big enough to really be called a fort. It was more of an outpost than anything, used by soldiers and the family when traveling through the area, and sometimes a staging ground for larger operations. Still, it was important in keeping peace in the land.

Currently, it was under assault.

“On your left, Gabriel!” A knight, dressed in the finest of silver and gold armor, a flowing blue cloak behind and wielding a sword passed down through the lightsword family.

“Worry about yourself, Leo!”

clang

The bandits sword was deflected by a much more mundanely dressed human of similar build. Dressed in warm leather and fur, a head full of messy blond hair and a simple steel sword.

They, were the two oldest sons of the Lightsword family - Luna’s older brothers.

“Where did these guys even come from! We don’t patrol for one day and suddenly they’re everywhere!” Leo drove his sword into the chest of a nearby bandit, expertly dispatching him with a practiced hand. A handful of other soldiers were out with him. They hadn’t planning on encountering a bandit force as big as this! In fact, this was the largest concentration of bandits they had seen in a long while!

“Humph! No idea, lets just hope this Queen of Luna’s gets here soon!” Gabriel, grinning from ear to ear replied as he’d grab another bandit by the neck…and then promptly behead him. The body would roll down the sloped ground, into a small tree. And this would be the sight Fio, Luna, Sorcha, and a certain Owl Knight would find when they arrived. A small group of Lightsword family soldiers, fending off what seemed to be a small army of bandits.

"Who can say why an elder beast from so long ago acted? Her help was a boon to my ancestors, and like as to me as well." Luna mentioned, trying to smile through her Queen's obvious displeasure. Then it was Fio's turn to ask a question, how the Queen knew she was a reincarnation of the King. It was a question Luna had never thought about. There were qualities that she had shown that had convinced Luna. Perhaps she was a small bit a romantic, but the Queen had the qualities that Luna looked for in a Queen. Just, fair, strong. Kind as well.

Still, Queen Sorcha merely mentioned something about memories. There was little evidence of such a thing of course, so it was something one would need to take at her words. Still, as the conversation came to a stop and the Queen's horse came to a stop... The sounds of battle raged.

It wasn't an uncommon sound in those land. Small skirmishes between soldiers and bandits, but it was different. It was a large battle, by the sounds, than a small skirmish as was the norm. "What madness. There are more bandits here than I've seen in years!" Luna exclaimed as the queen spurred her mount into action as Luna did hers. She had yet to draw her sword as she shot thin, harmful light beams into the crowd of bandits. As they drew closer, Luna drew her sword from it's sheath and created a glow on the blade. An obvious sign to anyone that knew her along with the warcry she let out as she and her large horse trampled bandits and cut them down as she went.

The knightess made sure to avoid spears and clear the way to the Frontline of Lightsword's forces. Once close enough to her brothers, she felt the need to shout at them. "I'm gone for some short time and look what vermin you allow on our land!" Luna shouted at her brothers in jest. "Perhaps I should teach you how to patrol for such large forces?" Despite all she said, she seemed perfectly content to be in the midst of combat, perhaps excited at the family reunion on the field of battle whilst her sword arm swung at bandit's heads and parrying blows.

Niall had been traveling for some time before he reached his destination; Lightsword territory. After having received words from the Queen Sorcha and coordinates for a meetup with herself and her knights, Niall wasted not a minute and was on his way. For months prior he had been traveling the land, helping those in need and killing those foul creatures or deserving humans as needed killing, making a name for himself. He could've continued like this, but the offer he received...it was an opportunity to do more.

Niall arrived at destination for some time now, and managed to jump atop one of the fort's tower without being noticed. Sun was setting by the time he spotted the Queen in the distance - much further than a normal human would have spotted her, most probably. What he did not spot was the Bandits that prepared to attack this fort. They did so before the Queen was in earshot of the battle, and while Niall could've jumped in he refrained from doing so to try and time himself with the arriving reinforcement and maximize the effect of surprise on the bandits. The Lightsword were more than able to hold their own for a short time still, it seemed like.

With the brash female knight charging into the fray, it was time. From the top of the tower, Niall braced his lance and crouched before launching himself downward at incredible speed. In a flash, his Lance found it's mark in a bandit that, whether he would have succeeded or not, was about to attack Leo's back. The speed and energy of Niall's landing made him slide towards another opponent, still crouched. It was a second before the second bandit realized what happened and looked down to strike the Owl Knight, but the Lance parried the sword away and cut the bandit down in one fluid motion. Standing back at full height, Niall braced Eye of Night at the ready, facing any bandits that were facing him.

From beneath his helmet, a cold yet assured voice called out; "My name is Niall Ulchabhán. Those of you who wish to die, come at me. Those who wish to live, drop your weapons."

Of course, there was no proof to anything that Sorcha said. That being said, it was somewhat more credible then claiming she had been granted the entire knowledge of the dead king by a mysterious figure, or that she had come to possess some special artifact that told her exactly who she was. With equal amounts of proof, such things would sound far too good to be true.

Fio was hardly convinced, but at least it was some kind of answer that was marginally more satisfying then something overly explicit.

That being said, there was no time to contemplate Sorcha's words.

"Bandits, then?" the Sword Witch rose to her feet and stepped up, a barrier of magical energy forming as she left Sorcha's horse and stepped onto it, raising herself into the air, "Idiots."

Stretching her hand to one side, a scowl on her face, Fio called upon her catalyst once again. The shape of the blade materialized from the air, glimmering with blue light as it manifested into her hand. As she did, Mieka raised up the Sword Witch's hat and proceeded to hide herself under it entirely.

From this range, there was little the doll could do.

"I suppose it's time once again to demonstrate the magic of the Sword Witch. Sura."

Swinging her blade forward, it gleamed with blue light as circles of light manifested in the air once more.

"Create ten phantom swords."

The translucent, ghostly blades emerged.

"Strike them down."

And then they were released.

@FrogRFlowR@Pyromania99@Rune_Alchemist

---

@Rune_Alchemist@Crimson Paladin@Cu Chulainn

Reinhardt stared at the pair of guards in utter befuddlement. While he knew full well that the Queen he'd taken oath under was bound to have her detractors-- this was the first time in the young Knight's entire he had ever witnessed such nonchalant slander in person; let alone as it's target. Even if Sorcha was looked upon poorly by the people of Redwater... What of his house? Did his own family's service; their countless years of struggle and sacrifice for the safety of all the land, mean so little to them?

Had the proud and noble legacy of Sigurd fallen so low in the eyes of Albion's people?

Reinhardt's eyes fell to the ground; his mouth opening to respond-- but not a syllable would pass his lips before a dark and twisted creature would strike in a flash of frenzied movements, mauling one of the men to death in a instant! Casting the broken body of it's first victim to the side, it sought it's second with a malign cackle-- a second flash of movement quickly succeeding the first.

The ripping of flesh. A fearful scream. The sickly crunch of bone. The sheer visceral brutality of the moment permeated the air itself-- as a plated boot slammed into the Fomorian's chest, intercepting it's lunge!

And as the corpse would sail into the distance, Reinhardt would place himself between the remaining guard and the oncoming creatures; one of his many blades drawn and chest alight with fearsome glow! Turning his head only slightly, the Knight had only a single thing to say to the guard, "Take shelter or stay behind me. My fellow knights and I will end this swiftly."

Not even waiting for reply, Reinhardt swiftly advanced on the incoming Fomorians; his eyes darting about the surrounding area as he estimated the number of enemy combatants. Based on the ones he could see, and the different sadistic cries of glee that carried forth from the other areas of town-- it seemed to be less than twenty, but certainly more than ten. "Roughly fifteen then-- five of which are on me..." Reinhardt muttered; his left hand dipping into his new beltpouch.

Five Fomorians focused on him alone meant an entire third of the enemy's offensive power was diverted away from potentially harming civilians. Less fortunate was the fact that facing five Fomorians head-on by oneself was suicide for the average Knight... But Elias was of House Reinhardt; decended from the blood of Sigurd himself. Though each of these creatures were far faster and stronger than a human-- Reinhardt's strength was even greater, and speed meant little when trying to use rudimentary weapons against full plate.

The only advantage these creatures had were numbers...

An advantage Elias would not allow them for long.

As the Knight's hand returned from the pouch-- his arm jerked forward; wrist snapping in a swift motion, hurling a small stone with his grotesque strength toward the Fomorian, the object quickly finding it's mark. The first of the five creatures fell, a bloody hole suddenly in place of it's left eye. Reinhardt retrieved another stone from the pouch; this time crushing it in his hand as he drew within striking distance, slinging the resulting gravel into the eyes of two of the remaining Fomorians; blinding them as he'd whirl to face the others that remained. A single motion with his blade beheaded the second as he used his vambrace to block the third's knife from reaching his throat. Reinhardt countered mercilessly; his hand darting forward and promptly crushing the creature's skull in his hand. Without a moment's hesitation he continued his onslaught, thrusting his quickly wearing blade straight through the shoddy armor of the forth; causing the weapon to snap at the middle, before he would ram whatever remained of his weapon into the throat of the fifth-- leaving it there.

Elais stood over the pile of corpses; just long enough to ensure the creatures were all well and truly dead, before he drew another of his blades and made haste toward the nearest screams!

---

As sudden as the storm of Fomorians that had appeared in the village, so too did a tempest of glistening gold. Among the grotesque gnashing and groaning of the cursed kin, there arose the primal roar of none other than a man cloaked in shimmering robes. He would descend from the rooftops as if appearing from the very skies, a quarterstaff of verdant brown wood pointed directly at the back of one of the quadruped Fomorian's skull. With a sickening crunch, the cloaked man would land on the beast, his staff crushing its skull into many pieces. The momentum of his landing caused the monster's body to messily skid across the field, leaving behind a trail of black blood as the cloaked figure glared at the closest two goblinoid Fomorians, his emerald eyes overtaken with a dull golden hue; to those familiar with the Elves, it is one of many signs that one is entranced by their Leargas.

Before the Fomorians could act further, the cloaked man released his staff as two iridescent golden daggers coalesced into his hands. They would each be swiftly thrown, striking both cursed creatures. One would find purchase in its target's shoulder, obliterating much of its upper torso with burning gold as its arm would wildly fly away from the rest of its body, while the second dagger would cleanly fly into the other's howling mouth, disintegrating much of its head in a mist of golden ash. It's as if these very blades burned away at the curse that permeated the flesh of these monstrosities, unravelling them at their core.

As more of the Fomorians approached the new arrival, the daggers would fade away as the man spun in a flourish. As he did, an ethereal golden sword, far larger than any normal man could wield, appeared in his hands. It tore through the charging Fomorians, leaving a mist of gore and gold in its wake. Their mutilated bodies all fell, their wounds searing with blessed cinders. As the man had spun, his hood would fall off, revealing his very visage: he was young, unnaturally so, his stark white hair painting a contrast to his otherwise youthly face. Unlike most entranced Elves, it was painted with an expression of pure anger, as if the very existence of the cursed beasts that lay before the warrior offends him greatly.

"You all will wish you didn't betray the last god you could pray to! Come, fall by my blade, children of blight! Fall by the blade of the Swordwind!" He howled an open challenge to the Fomorians, slamming the tip of his blade into the ground and making a grandiose pose, revealing his muscular form, unarmored and unchained. Soon, his eyes would center on a particularly cursed figure, an interested grin painted on his face as he eyed the Knight Encased in Ice.

"You... you reek of curses. Show me what you can do."