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[puddingpunter]

The Khrysopos' day started like any other.

Her guardian and companion, Cleyobanthal, (she liked to call him Cleyo for short) had woken before her and could be seen already reading in his usual spot by the bedroom's main window seat. The cervitaur groaned and stretched, noting how the empty spot beside her on the bed was now cold. "Good morning" Cleyo called out whilst turning a page in his old book. He didn't turn around to look at her but he did flick an ear back in her direction, causing an earring to jingle lightly. "Is it really?" Auium inquired playfully. Cleyo paused and straightened his posture, then looked out the window. "I think yes. Today's going to be the first rain of the year." That caught her attention. Auium sat up.

"Really?" That earned her a confirming hum in response.
"What makes you say that?"
"There's a breeze. Plus the birds have stopped singing."
"Where's Kery?" Another nickname, for her other guardian although this one's intended secondary purpose revolved more around keeping her contained than happy.
"Your dog is sniffing about. She suspect's today was going to be unlucky and couldn't sit still. I am under the impression she will not be returning soon."
"You know she doesn't like being called that." The other guardian had made her complaints quite clear but Cleyo never seemed to care. He didn't respond.

So that was how her morning began; waiting in anticipation for both her friend and the storms.

Auium dined on a light breakfast and then went to read alongside Cleyo in the garden. Later on they romped a bit, played some chess, she taught herself a lesson in the art of penmanship, they filled their bellies with a warm lunch, another reading session, and then she went to go lie down for a quick nap. Boring couldn't even begin to describe her daily struggle. Some days were better than others but there were only so many things one could do when prohibited from leaving the property. She would have asked to go for a walk but knew she would be denied as long as Kerebos was out. But by nightfall when the rains finally arrived it certainly lifted her spirits. Auium loved the rain.

The structure's thick walls did well to protect against the cold outside but Cleyobanthal had decided to light the fireplace anyway and laid on the fur rug before it. Kerebos still hadn't returned and although neither Cleyo nor his ward were particularly worried they waited up anyway. Auium curled around her companion and settled down comfortably to watch the fire. The crackling logs and rumbling thunder made for a very nice background.

[Shiva]

"Father, there are children starving. Innocent bystanders are being killed, and for what? Pride? Money? Resources? What are all of those truly worth when compared with a life?" The prince had pleaded, exasperated with the king, who refused to listen.

"You're too young to understand, Alastor. Just go back to whatever it is you do around here." The king had replied, not even glancing at his son as he sifted through letters and war reports.

Alastor slammed his fist on the table, gaining his father's attention, and causing the servant in the room to jump in surprise. "How can you take this so lightly?! You send young men off to die in a pointless struggle for power, whilst you sit here safe in your palace! You care nothing for the sacrifice your people are making, you know nothing of the suffering that is being caused because of you!" The prince exploded, unable to stand the king's apathy any longer.

"If you won't do something about this damn war, then I will!"

.
.
.

Alastor grimaced as he reflected on his actions, realizing that this, perhaps, had not been the best way to go about the situation. He had never been one to lose his temper, seeing how dearly his father's temper had cost others was more than enough of an example for him growing up, and Alastor tried to be patient with everyone. But this entire situation was testing his resolve. Even though this conversation had happened nearly a week ago, the prince was still furious with his father. After all, any halfway sane person could see how pointless this war was, and how it was costing both sides. A truce was the obvious answer. Why was he the only one that could see that?

He sighed and ran a hand through his tousled red hair, trying to relieve some of his stress. Honestly, it wasn't his problem. He was fifth in line for the throne behind his four older brothers, so unless he started killing them off, it wasn't his responsibility to worry about what did or didn't happen to the people. But that didn't change the face that he cared. When Alastor was but a wee lad, his governess would dress the two of them in disguises, and they would go into the marketplace. Music filled the air, the sun shone bright, the streets were clean, children played in the streets, the people were happy. But no more. Now when Alastor dared to venture out, children were on the streets begging for food, their eyes dull with hopelessness. The music no longer played, except for bells of the house of mourning. Trash and filth littered the once beautiful and bright streets, and the people were terrified. It wasn't his responsibility, but it broke his heart.

"My lord! My lord!" A frantic voice caught his attention, and as Alastor turned, he was greeted by the sight of a plump old maid running towards him. Her name was Natasha, but the prince had always just called her Nana. Currently, Nana was in a state. Her eyes were red and puffy, tears stained her cheeks, and her hands were shaking.

"Good god, what's wrong?" He asked, eyebrows furrowing as he grasped the old woman's hands.

She inhaled deep breaths, trying to regain her composure. "Its awful... So awful your highness... I'm sorry... So sorry..." Sobs echoed down the hallway, drawing some glances to the pair, and prompting Alastor to move this conversation elsewhere.

"It's alright, Nana. Come, let's go into my study. You can tell me all about it, alright?" The prince soothed, leading the poor woman into the room to his right. Had someone died? When they were inside, he locked the door and made Nana sit down. He offered her some water, but she refused, slightly calmer now.

"Oh, my lord... It's dreadful... Absolutely dreadful..." She shook her head, pressing a hand to her mouth.

"What is, Nana?"

"The king... He..." Her voice choked. "I overheard him talking... I was bringing him his tea, you see, like I always do... I wasn't supposed to hear... Oh god what if he finds out... My lord he's planning to... to kill you... Oh I'm so sorry... If it had been any of the other boys, I wouldn't say anything but you... You were always such a sweet little boy and I just couldn't... You have to run my lord. Please, please run. Of all the horrible things..."

For several moments, Alastor couldn’t say anything. His father… wanted to kill him? If it had been any of the other servants, he might have wondered if they were lying, but Nana was not one to just make up a story like this. She was also in such a state, she probably couldn’t have lied if she wanted to. Even though he didn’t want to believe her warning, it made sense, and that meant he didn’t have time to be shocked. He needed to get moving. Without a word, Alastor got up and went to his room to pack a small bag of supplies. He would leave when everyone else had gone to sleep, and pray the guards would keep their silence.

.
.
.

The prince hadn’t stopped to rest all night, for fear of his father sending soldiers after him, and he was exhausted. The sun beat down on him one instant, and then the next rain was pelting him as he walked through a forest. Nana had helped him pack and prepare, sobbing and fussing over him the entire time, giving endless motherly advice before sending him off. Alastor prayed that her involvement wouldn’t be discovered, and left a large sum of money under her pillow incase she should have to run.
His feet ached, his body felt heavy, and he needed to rest, but he still didn’t feel safe. By now, his father had no doubt learned of his disappearance, and had sent soldiers after him. Would he be able to outrun them? Could he hide? Would they track him down? How far ahead was he? How long did he have? A groan left the prince as he leaned against a tree, taking just a second to catch his breath. The day was ending, and he needed to find a place to rest, and figure out his next move.

It was then, like a dream come true, that a shape appeared through the mist and rain. It looked like some sort of building, and through the rain Alastor thought he could make out the shadow of a door, and a light that clearly shone through some of the windows. Perhaps the inhabitants of this place would be kind enough to offer him shelter. Lowering his hood, Alastor made his way to the door, and pounded on it.

[puddingpunter]

Kerebos, it was eventually concluded, would not be returning that evening. Perhaps tomorrow or maybe even the day after next... There was no telling for sure but they had no reason to worry as of yet. Cleyo mentioned that Kerebos was likely out to check whether their supplies had been dropped off yet; they were supposed to be here last week but the political issues overseas had been causing delays recently. (It wasn't as much a problem as it was an inconvenience since both Cleyobanthan and Kerebos knew how to live off the land if push came to shove.) So, Auium and Cleyo settled on having a quiet chat for the rest of their night. The crackling fireplace and rumbling thunder provided a sort of charming background ambiance and soon enough the pair dozed off. Eventually Cleyo roused and padded off to bed with a sleepy 'goodnight' and Auium promised she'd follow shortly. Alone with only her thoughts to keep her company, Auium decided she wanted to delay sleep and simply enjoy the quiet for now.

Then came the banging on the door.

At first Auium thought maybe she was imagining it. Maybe that was the thunder or the wind knocking something over. Surely that wasn't Kerebos, was it? No. Her ward knew there would be no need to knock and could enter or leave as she pleased. Auium considered ignoring it but the chill running up her spine, which in turn caused the hairs along her back to raise on end, prompted further action. Cautiously, Auium rose. "Cleyo" she hissed. Why was she whispering? There would be no way anyone outside would be able to hear her but for some reason the idea of a stranger wanting to come in frightened the little cervitaur. Auium tip-toed back to the bedroom and shook her companion awake. Cleyo slurred something along the lines of "I'm awake" and yawned but didn't stir much.

"There's someone here" Auium told him. The hybrid opened his eyes but did not stir.
"What do you mean?" he slurred.
"At the door."
"Are you sure?"
"Cleyo."
"Alright, alright. I'm up."

Auium had never once been afraid her companions. Sure the both of them were there to watch over her, keep her safe and make sure she was properly cared for. But she'd only ever really seen them as family. Feeling ashamed during a proper scolding wasn't the same as shying from an intimidating stranger screaming at you. It hadn't ever quite sunk in that Cleyo was here to protect her until this moment. Cleyo's sphinx half granted him his lithe build and graceful movements, while his elf half added height and sharpened features. He wasn't particularly frightening at first glance. However now Auium could really see the bulk, the sinuous cords of muscle forming his frame as he rose with purpose to investigate the issue at hand. "Stay here" he told her, then stalked off. Auium didn't need to be told twice and sank to the mattress much like a doe awaiting its mother's return.

[Shiva]

The prince sighed as he waited for someone to come to the door, praying that they wouldn’t just ignore him. It had been a very long journey. He was wet, tired, hungry, cold, and at the moment all he wanted was a hot meal and somewhere to lay his head for the night other than the dirt. Surely they would be kind enough to provide him with that, right? Alastor needed to restore his strength so that he could continue with his mission; finding the Khrysopos.

To be completely honest, Alastor wasn’t even sure how the mystical being could help, but it was the only thing that he could think of to stop the war, and at the least he could do was try. This war had gone on for too long, and it was time for someone to stand up and say enough.

“You look brooding and dramatic.”

Alastor’s eyebrows furrowed at the sound of a voice behind him, and as he turned, there was a white haired woman leaning on the trunk of a tree staring at him. A long scar across her left eye caught his attention, but he tried not to let it show.

“”Do you live here?” He asked.

“Do I look like the castle type to you, lad?” Her eyebrow raised at him, and he had to admit that her frankly battard appearance didn’t suit the domain they were speaking of.

“I suppose not,” he replied. “So who are you?”

“I am no one to be trifled with.”

“Well that’s specific.”

“I try my best, your highness.” The woman curtsied to him, clearly being sarcastic.

Alastor was surprised. “You know who I am?”

“Nope, I took a wild guess by stereotyping your fancy clothes. Nice boots, by the way.”

“...” Alastor didn’t bother replying to that.

[puddingpunter]

Cleyo was a no-nonsense kind of guy and he liked to keep it that way. Keep it simple. Made things a lot easier that way.

The hybrid prowled to the door with the liquid grace of a snake maneuvering though the water. A predator stalking after prey. He had one job and one job only; protect the Khyrsopos. Everything else came after, whether that be Auium's comfort or her happiness (unfortunate as that was). So when Cleyobanthal had opened the door it was with full intent on chasing off whoever it was standing behind the door at such an hour. Be it someone looking for trouble or someone looking for shelter, he couldn't care less -deal with them and send them on their way. Perhaps years ago he would have had the heart to consider taking in lost wanderers, stragglers, travelers who needed someplace to hold out for the night, that sort, but not anymore. He couldn't, wasn't permitted so. The sword at his belt was a heavy reminder of that.

Cleyo was a no-nonsense kind of guy and he liked to keep it that way. Tonight would not be one of those nights.

"Prince Alastor?" Eyes widened, the shock in his voice was evident. Otàe may be a land without rulership but that didn't mean its residents did not know king from peasant. Well, in this case, prince. Auium was Cleyo's ward and although her care was his primary concern, by law he was not permitted to harm any royalty on her behalf unless there was absolutely no other choice. As of this very second that was not the case. Turning a the visitor away suddenly no longer felt like an option; if Alastor froze to death or succumbed to some other fate on the land then part of the responsibility would be on him. Cleyo looked from the prince to the white-haired stranger standing behind him, and eyed her warily. "What are you doing here?" He'd barely finished the question when a familiar voice piped up from behind.

"Cleyo, let them in!"
He could hear her little hooves scraping against the castle's marble flooring. He didn't turn around and instead put am arm up against the frame of the threshold, effectively blocking any possibly entry or exit without his interference. "Auium, go back to bed" he warned, tail twitching in agitation. But the echoes of her footfalls continued on closer.
"I had another vision!"
The hairs along the back of his neck stood on end and Cleyo went rigid, but still refused to turn around. Auium came along and peeked out at their two new guests from under Cleyo's arm. He spared her a precursory glance, then resumed staring down the strangers.
"Well don't just keep them standing there! Quickly, before someone sees."
Cleyo didn't bother pointing out that aside from the occasional traveler, there wasn't supposed to be anybody on the island but them. He flicked an ear.
"Are you sure about this?" Her visions' uncanniness still unnerved him to this very day. They were rare, far and apart, but whenever they did make themselves known they were never wrong.
"Yes, now move aside before they both melt in the rain." If you didn't count her horns, Auium only came up to Cleyo's chest, yet she was trying to push him out of the way with all her small might. Cleyo relented and pulled the door open.

As much as he didn't like this, Cleyo knew he had to trust her judgement. Auium was no child and understood the importance of her duty, of her roll in the universe. He would go along with this for now but if either of the two threatened her in an way then he would halt this immediately and suffer the consequences of his own actions later. Auium moved out of the way with him, granting their guests entry, and Cleyo bowed at the hip in welcome. "Your highness."

[Shiva]

“Oh- Please, just- just call me Al. If anyone should be bowing, its me,” Alastor replied, in a bit of shock as he stared at the creature in front of him. Yellow eyes, white hair and fur, on the island where the Khrysopos is supposed to be located. “You’re the- You- I found- Wow.”

“What my friend here is trying to say-” The strange woman cut in, throwing her arm around the prince’s shoulder, “-is that it is an honor to make your acquaintance.”

“Friend?”

“Yes, friend.”

“I don’t make friends with witches,” Al raised an eyebrow at her, looking her attire up and down pointedly.

“Just because my clothes are battered and dark doesn’t mean I’m a witch. Honestly, your highness, I expected better from you.”

“You sound like my father,” he sighed, before turning his attention back to the other two. The prince was a bit more composed, having been properly annoyed out of his initial shock. “You must excuse me, I wasn’t expecting to find you so soon.”

[puddingpunter]

"Yep, you found me. Destiny works in mysterious ways" Auium hummed in confirmation. The place she called home was specifically chosen to make locating her extremely difficult (if not entirely impossible). The strategic hiding spot was in itself a challenge to access even by the few who did know where to look so Auium had no idea how either the prince or the witch stumbled upon her humble abode but she wasn't going to start asking questions now. She would simply remain appreciative.

"Now come along, we have much to discuss. There is a lot to cover and I need you to tell me what's been happening so far." She grabbed the prince's hand and lead him inside, simultaneously gesturing for the woman accompanying said prince to follow. Cleyo followed not far behind their two new guests and made sure to secure the doors. "Oh goodness me, I've nearly forgotten! I'm so sorry, you're soaking wet!" Auium released the prince and then scampered off to find something to help dry them off, the gentle echo of her hooves against the floor gradually growing quieter as she disappeared down a corridor. Cleo spoke up. "Please, make yourselves at home. I cannot imagine it was very comfortable outside, with the rain and whatnot. Can I get you anything to drink? Are you hungry?" If he had to guess Cleyo would bet he already knew the answers but he didn't wish to surrender formalities quiet yet. After all, at least one of the people standing before him was a royal and neither were close acquaintances, only strangers. Auium returned then with two towels and handed one to each guest. Without further ado, she turned to the woman. "So, who might you be?"

[Shiva]

"Oh, just a weary traveler," the white-haired woman replied, following them into the house as requested. "My name is Mira. I met our prince here on the road, and seeing as I haven't really spoken to anyone if a couple of weeks I thought I might strike up some conversation. Then we stumbled upon your lovely home, and you know the rest. And something hot to drink would be lovely."

Alastor raised an eyebrow at the woman, who was now dabbing her neck with the towel, a dubious expression overtaking his features. He wasn't exactly certain how truthful she was being as to the coincidental nature of their meeting. However, she hadn't done anything to make him think she was malicious or aggressive as of yet, so for the time being he would endure her company as long as the Khrysopos did. She was awfully casual about the whole situation, meanwhile he dumbfounded and blubbering like an idiot because of the creature in front of him. One moment he was looking for shelter, and the next he was being ushered into the home of the very being he'd been searching so fervently for, and now she seemed to know exactly why he was there- though that last bit probably shouldn't have surprised him. Al did his best to cover up the panic shock.

"Thank you very much for your kindness," He said, taking the towel gratefully and starting to dry himself off a bit. "I'm sorry to have dropped in on you so suddenly. I'm sure having visitors must be alarming, and I wish I could say that I just wanted to come by and have a simple chat. But you probably already have some idea of why I've come to you."

"I hate to ask for more hospitality, but could we possibly move this conversation closer to a fireplace?" Mira asked. "I'm sure the prince is just as chilled as I am."

"I'm sure you're very concerned for my health."

[puddingpunter]

Cleo bowed his head respectfully and left to retrieve his guests' beverages. Meanwhile Auium tilted her head at Mira's self-introduction, much like a puppy who as trying to figure out what its master was saying. She wasn't scared of Mira since the white haired woman lacked any sort of the negative energy Auium would usually spot in someone who wished her harm. But there was something about her... The centaur visibly perked up at the realization. "You're a magic wielder! Oh thank goodness, you're going to make our journey indefinitely easier. The more the merrier." She smiled cheerily at her guests, and then clapped her hands together upon Mira's request. "Of course, right this way. Fire's still warm." Auium gesture for her guests to follow and lead them towards the large den room with a fire still crackling brightly in the hearth. "Speaking of which may I suggest we start tomorrow or would that be too soon for you? I understand you both would probably very much enjoy rest and I will respect that if it helps with your efficiency but I must insist on urgency." Cleo returned then with a tray of two cups and a kettle of fresh tea.