[IC] Avalia

[Potter]

Artemis

Time: Night
Location: Roshmi Grand Hall
Interaction: @FunnyGuy - Darius & @princess - Risa

Artemis’ gaze narrowed when Darius spoke. Did he know she was a siren because of his knowledge from Earth, or was it the demon inside of him? She bit back a scowl and folded her arms. His hunch was correct; but did share dare tell him? She’d have to if they approached her. How would she explain that she’d escaped her new master? They would be furious; perhaps even kill her on the spot. With a sigh, she opened her mouth to begin explaining when a digital picture appeared on the walls.

Momentarily confused, Artemis tilted her head to one side and began gathering strength in case of any attack. Instead, she was staring at Risa and felt dread rise inside of her. ’Oh honey, what are you doing?’ Artemis wondered and clenched her fists. As she spoke, Artemis felt her mouth run dry. She was so brave, and she couldn’t be prouder of her; this also begged the next fear: the enemies. They were here and her speech would likely provoke them. Her bravery was admirable. Where were they hiding? God, Artemis hated running or moving quickly on land. She scowled and pushed it aside for now.

Artemis began to make her way through the hall, then into the ballroom. She rudely pushed people out of her way as she hurried outside. A few Elves and demis yelled at her but she didn’t listen. She scowled as she bobbled around and kept losing her balance. Her legs were shaking and so was the rest of her body. Any time she lost her balance, she quickly scrambled back up and seized the opportunity of the crowd’s disarray from Risa’s speech and Dionaea’s dead body. Artemis’ eyes teared slightly and she had to keep rubbing her face on her arm. Her vision continued to blur. What kind of devil had killed her so cruelly? Through the fray, she could hear Lord Asshole's announcement as well. No! She couldn't be trapped inside! Her heart pounded so hard she thought it might jump from her chest. Her mind buzzed as a sudden familiar voice filled the air:

"Why not take a chance! I stand with Princess Millinia! Down with the Lich King!"

She skidded to a halt and whirled around with confusion. What the hell was he saying? He didn’t side with her! The human liked Aklenroth and Kol; not to mention, he was possessed by a Demon. Her eyes widened as realization dawned on her. God damn it, why did she have to keep choosing over one another? Shook her head and momentarily faltered. Her heart, if it could beat anymore, was going to simply be ripped out. Artemis shook her head and turned to the doorway. He could take care of himself; right now, he seemed to be doing fine. She shook her head as tension rose inside of her. Besides, Myra would need him. She turned and began heading back to the door as guards passed her to begin calming the escalating riot.

As she neared the door, Artemis found her way blocked by a few guards. She skidded to a halt and glowered as she collected her balance. The Dark Elves grinned at her maliciously, but she glared ferociously back. The few of them blinked as she intently stared them down. ”Sorry Miss, nobody’s allowed outside-” The Dark Elf on the left began saying when Artemis punched him in the face and knocked him onto his feet. He cried out in pain and stumbled as the two others moved to detain her. She moved back and assessed them both. Her eyes were shining with hatred and fury. She was going to kill these two if she had to in order to go outside; like hell she’d be stuck in here - there would be a stampede soon as well that would end her. Artemis would not let that happen, especially with Shade being here. Was River here too? She refused to face them right now. Her stomach felt hollow. How could she face them without her master at her side? She couldn’t; it would mean her detainment again or death. Neither option was suitable.

”You will let me out and you won’t remember me.” Artemis growled as she compelled them both. Their eyes glazed over and they allowed her to pass. She quickly ran outside and disappeared into the night.

[13org]

Location: Roshmi Grand Hall
Time: Late Afternoon
Interactions: O'Ner @Eviledd1984

Myra was happy to see Mathis laughing. Seeing her new friend happy made her feel happy as she smiled to him. After the misunderstanding that happened regarding the wine and now that the effect was gone, she knew that he didn't really want to do anything bad to her and despite the strange smell he had, he did seem to be a good person. When he apologized for Skar, Myra smiled at him, letting him know it was everything fine.

It was then that suddenly, the image of a pretty fairy appeared from the windows and the wall of the ball as everyone stopped dancing, eating and even the music stopped with their attention focused on the woman's image as she spoke. Myra looked at the image confusedly, tilting her head. She did remember when something like that happened, when Aklenroth appeared on the sky but she didn't have the same feeling she had back then, that fairy seemed to be different from him, in a manner Myra herself didn't understand very well. Instead of sympathy, it was more like Myra felt nothing towards the fairy, while she felt a strong anger and repulse towards Aklenroth.

Risa, as the fairy introduced herself, was talking a lot of complicated stuff, which Myra was having a hard time understanding. She did understand that she was talking something about humans, like Darius and how they were brought to Avalia. That said, even if Myra didn't know exactly what she was talking about, she could understand her expressions, how sad and nervous she was while she spoke. Despite that, Risa didn't seem to be a bad person and wanted to help the humans and she seemed to dislike Aklenroth as much as Myra herself did, which was a positive point for her.

Myra was paying close attention to Risa when the image suddenly changed to a frightening one, one from another fairy which seemed to be in a similar location to Risa's. She was bleeding and mangled, hanging lifeless from vines, which pierced her skin and flesh in a really gruesome and cruel display, which made Myra flinch and stand up, with an alarmed expression as she looked around. It was clear for Myra that something was happening, even if she didn't know exactly what. When she heard Darius' voice rising above the rest though, Myra immediately looked to where he was. If something happened, she would want to be near Darius and Artemis to defend them. Turning towards Mathis with an urgent stare in her eyes, Myra grabbed his hand as she pointed to where Darius' voice came from, pulling him towards that direction.

Location: Roshmi Grand Hall
Mentions: Cade @Helo, Sakura @baraquiel

When Ayita was on her way to eat together with Cade and Sakura though, their meal was interrupted once again. This time though, the image of the same fairy wearing beautiful clothes that had made quite an entrance in the ball earlier appeared from the windows, a reflection just like the one Aklenroth used to invite people to the ball. Much to her surprise though, Risa, as the fairy introduced herself, seemed to be an ally from the humans. Despite how guilty she appeared to feel over having brought the humans and how nervous she was, Ayita could feel the fire on her voice and eyes when she said she would oppose Aklenroth and fight for Avalia. Being one of the responsible for bringing the humans to Avalia meant that she would be able to help Ayita with her plans to bring the remaining of her people here. If she could find Risa, she could prove to be a powerful ally.

"Cade, Sakura, we need to find Risa. I don't think she is lying about siding with the humans and fighting against Aklenroth." Ayita said with a fierce expression.

Just as she had finished saying that and Risa ended her speech though, the image on the wall suddenly changed to a truly terrifying one. In a similar background to Risa's, another fairy's corpse was shown, her head hanging from vines which pierced her skin and flesh, her wings torn and her once golden hair now stained in red in a truly gruesome and cruel display, enough to make Ayita look away in disgust. There could be only one person responsible for such display of cruelty... That display did seem to have the opposite effect than what Aklenroth, whom Ayita supposed that was the responsible for it, intended though. A vaguely familiar voice rose above the rest, supporting Risa against Aklenroth after a few moments of stunned silence for the gruesome image. What started with a single voice, slowly began attracting more, with their voices echoing through the hall in defiance against the Lich King.

Truth be told, hearing those voices, openly going against Aklenroth's tyranny made Ayita's heart beat faster and her fighting spirit flare up. Avalia and it's people wouldn't go down without fighting. She could feel her blood getting hotter as the voices from those who were willing to fight for Avalia became louder and louder. For a moment, Ayita feelt an urge to shout together with the others, let her voice echo through the halls, louder and louder, in a manner Aklenroth wouldn't be able to ignore. Thankfully, she thought better before doing so. They were in a dangerous situation and couldn't afford having their identities known even in that situation. Ayita knew very well that Aklenroth was the type of person that would simply slaughter everyone inside the ball if he found that a few of them were against him... and that was exactly what was happening.

"We need to find this Risa. Aklenroth will go after her and I don't think she is far from here." Ayita said with a determined expression.

"I'm glad to know that Avalia won't lower it's head without a fight." Ayita said with a smile and fire in her eyes.

[Tae]

Time: Evening
Location: Roshmi Grand Hall
Interactions: @Helo Bowyn @Potter Belle
Mentions: @princess Risa

---

Torvi was relieved when her friends arrived at the table, though she noted that Belle also seemed concerned. Bowyn, on the other hand, seemed to be in rather high spirits and her heart broke a little as she realized she may end up ruining this rare mood of his. However even the momentary happiness on his face made Torvi smile a bit. Then he cleverly told them of their “cousin” and a meeting place. That was very useful information and it may be beneficial if they all made their way out of this large city and to that port town. ”I agree with my dear sister here, I’d very much like to see our cousins again.” She responded after Belle, referring to the other human as her sister in case anyone was listening in.

What Belle said next she didn’t entirely expect, but it only strengthened her resolve to inform them of what she’d discovered. It was concerning to her that Belle had heard a thought, it was a peculiar way of wording the statement. So was there someone here that could speak in someone's mind? That didn’t sit well with Torvi. ”Unfortunately I do have some...alarming information to share with you both.” She began as her own voice lowered so only her group could hear. ”I had quite the interesting dance with the greeter and he all but admitted that this Lord Vaeril may not be all he appears to be. I believe Vaeril may side with Akle-” She was cut off as an image appeared within the Hall and a voice began speaking.

Torvi glanced over to see the princess that had caused so much of a commotion when she came in. She now was obviously not in the hall anymore and projecting herself like Aklenroth had on her first morning here in Avalia. She seemed nervous at first, but gained confidence as she went on. She was attempting to get people to rise up, something Torvi found admirable, but with the information she had on the host of this ball made her nervous. They needed to get out and get out fast. ”We need to leave. We need to leave now before-” She was cut off once more as the scene changed to a gruesome sight of a dead fairy girl. This was bad, this was very bad.

People began to speak up in rebellion to Aklenroth and Torvi’s blood ran cold. In her gut she knew something was about to happen. She looked to Bowyn with a pained expression as she realized he was now in a lot of danger and it was her fault. She threw her arms around him in a hug as she spoke. ”I’m so sorry Bowyn. You were right, we shouldn’t have come here tonight and now I fear I’ve put you and Boreas in grave danger.” She let go of him, kissing his cheek as she did. Then she gently pat Boreas on the head before turning to Belle and hugging her tightly.

”I don’t think this ball is going to end incredibly well for us, but if we can get out I think I’m going to find this Risa and fight with her. I hope you consider maybe joining me.” She let go of the woman and gave her a grin before again looking at both of them. ”Well shall we make our swift exit before all hell breaks loose?” She asked them. If it came down to it she would find a way to cause a distraction so they could escape. She didn’t want to lose any more people she cared about and would do whatever it took to protect them.

[Eviledd1984]

O'Ner Faister

TIME: Evening

LOCATION: The Grand Ball, Roshmi City

INTERACTIONS: @13org Myra @princess Risa @Potter Artemis @FunnyGuy Darius

O'Ner looked onto the image of the female speaking; listening to what she was saying wondering if she could accomplish her goals. The rebels seemed to not have a lead in this race so he did not think they could rally others for their cause. The fact that she was addressing the dark elves in the room worried him a little; he wondered if she knew somehow Aklenroth's general and minions were present. Watching her finishing up her speech; watching her body contort and vines seemed to penetrate her skin. At this point he was quite alarmed that he stood up form his chair and was ready to evacuate the others. But he stopped form leaving as he turned to face Myra.

“Let us go to Darius and see if he is okay” He took her hand and lead her towards the directions of Darius. “Mr. Darius...we are coming towards you; please stay where you are” He yelled out for Darius to hear. Leading Myra towards Darius before finally reaching him. “Mr. Darius are you okay? Are you two okay?” He asked him. Looking back at Myra feeling a little bad for her; She seemed so innocent that he assumed she was deathly afraid. “Everything will be fine my dear; we will get though this” He spoke in almost a whisper to Myra.

[Tae]

Time: Evening
Location: Roshmi Hall
Interaction: @Dezuel Terneus @FunnyGuy Umber
Mentions: @princess Risa @FunnyGuy Darius @Helo Cade @13org Ayita @baraquiel Sakura
Mood: "Keep your head up, don't look down this time…

---

Dear lord this elf really likes to hear himself speak. Elsea thought, groaning internally as Terneus just seemed to go on and on. She glanced briefly out over the balcony again, wondering if the plan would soon be underway or not. She turned her attention back to Terneus and Caius just as Terneus was getting to the bit about the thirty-seven assassins and it took everything in Elsea to keep from scoffing. Sure it did. I think it actually only took one man to harm you. He truly doesn’t realize how ridiculous he sounds. While this was fun at first, now the sound of this elf’s voice was just getting annoying. For a brief second she considered attempting to shove him over the edge of the balcony just to shut him up, but soon decided against it.

Caius soon asked if they wanted to know what his theory was on the arrival of humans and this piqued her interest. The pompous elf, however, wasn’t about to let him speak. ”I’d love to hear your theory, however I don’t think the governor here will shut up long enough for me to hear it.” She said with a sigh to Caius. Terneus was now going off on how stunning and radiant he was and Elsea couldn’t help herself as she rolled her eyes. This man truly was a buffoon.

Before she could respond to him saying he wished to talk more after the ball, the familiar voice of Risa hit her ears. She could barely see the image inside the ball from where she was at, but she could hear her voice. Her nervous voice tugged at Elsea’s heart a bit as she worried she wouldn’t be able to go through with it, but then she gained confidence. A small feeling of pride came over her at the sound, but then she realized it was time for her to go. She glanced over to Caius and gave him a grin. ”It was a pleasure meeting you, but unfortunately that’s my que to leave.” She gave him a wink as she swiftly exited the balcony. She needed to make it to Malachi and Kenia.

Heading down the stairs she watched Risa as she spoke, grinning the whole time. Her words had to move people, they were so well spoken. Something unexpected happened then, however, as a horribly gruesome sight now overtook the projection. Elsea came to a dead stop near the bottom of the steps as her blood turned to ice. It took a moment for her to recognize the fairy, but she soon realized it was Dio. The sight of Dionaea’s mangled corpse caused her stomach to churn and she almost vomited all over the stairs. She closed her eyes and then took a breath. That’s when the pure fury set in. It was probably a good thing magic wasn’t able to be used within the ball as she has a feeling the entire room would have erupted in flames had she had use of her fire.

A voice pulled her back to reality and she glanced around the room until her eyes fell on the man that spoke. Soon others joined in and she knew what she had to do. Swiftly she made her way down the rest of the steps and to a table that was near a white haired woman, a large cat man, and the same dark haired elven woman she’d seen on the balcony. She jumped up onto the table and briefly looked over the crowd. ”Risa Millinia is right, it’s time for you to rise up Avalia! The time of you living in fear is over, it’s time for you to be angry! Take back what is rightfully yours! If you rise up now I will stand with you and I will make sure those that stand against you will burn!” As she said this she yanked off her mask and tore off her false ears, tossing them to the side as she revealed herself as a human. Was she making herself a target? Absolutely, but if she could help stir a revolution then her own safety could go to hell. She would gladly be a martyr if need be.

”Humans! My brothers and sisters, hear me now! I know you didn’t choose to be here and Risa’s promise is true, we will get you home if you wish it! I ask you now, though, can you truly leave a world to perish knowing that you have the power to do something good? The power to help change this world? I know every one of you came from a different background, but the world I came from was shit and there was nothing I could do to change it! Here, though….here I can make a difference! So if you can find it in your hearts then please stand with us! Help us make a better world!” She stood there confidently as she silently prayed to the gods that people would listen. She wasn’t able to speak as eloquently as Risa, but she hoped she could at least stir more people. She began to hear more people murmuring and yelling ‘down with the Lich!’ Good, people were gaining confidence, that’s what they needed.

[Potter]

Belladonna

Time: Night
Location: Roshmi Grand Ball
Mention: @princess - Risa, @FunnyGuy - Darius, @Tae - Elsea
Interaction: @Tae - Torvi, @helo - Bowyn
Ambience: Uprising

Belle’s eyes widened when Torvi provided her information. If the greeter was one of Aklenroth’s goons, then perhaps he was the mystery voice inside of her. Though it had been quiet, Belle hadn’t let her guard down. She started to agree with leaving, when an image appeared from an orb on the walls of the ballroom. It was the asme fairy princess from earlier who had garnered some much attention. Belle watched as the nervous fairy, riddled with anxiety, began to speak. She watched her then clenched her fists when she admitted to having a hand in them coming. Belle gritted her teeth. She wasn’t sure if she was upset or somewhat happy to be here. Her mind wandered to Elleta and the Golden Death. She felt tension rise, but as she looked over at Torvi and Bowyn...

Here, she had friends. Friends who accepted her for her actions and self; who trusted and also liked her. She hadn’t been sure if it had been genuine, though the past few days had proven ehr otherwise. She was slow to trust, but it had been easy to fall into line and befriend them. Would they accept her if she knew her truly? Would they accept her for being a coward on Earth and ratting out her gang, for selling drugs and the like; from breaks in and assaults to rioting and looting…. She had told herself it had been to survive. It had been, otherwise she’d have starved and died in the streets. Her mother hadn’t been well enough to care for her. Just thinking of her mother sent waves of fury and rage coursing through her. How could that woman have lived with herself? Her mind raced. Her own actions though had been forgiven, but she hadn’t quite forgiven herself. How could she lead when all she knew was violence and criminology? She glanced down at the floor with shame and guilt rising, then back up emotionless. Here, she could make a difference, to owe up to everything she had done, the lives and businesses ruined… Do better, be better, is what Lysandra had always told her to remind her of being good and doing unto others. Besides, she was going to hell anyways….

By the time the fairy had finished, Belle was trying to catch up, having been caught in her reverie. She stared with horror as the image changed to reflect a dead one instead. Judging by the Princess’ screams, it had been someone she knew. Whoever it was suffered a gruesome fate. She felt her stomach churn as if it were on an amusement park ride and faced her friends. Their lives were in critical danger. Akelnroth would definitely respond. She glanced around as her heart began racing. People were in panic mode and also delighted by the rebellion. Belle swallowed and turned to her friends. She watched as Torvi embraced Bowyn and kissed his cheek. Though she was silent for the moment, Belle agreed with her friends’ statement. She felt awful inside. When Torvi spoke and hugged her, Belle managed a giggle. ”Yeah, definitely. She pulled the wrong ones over.” Belle teased and turned to Bowyn. ”Bowyn, I’m also really sorry. I am so sorry you’re in danger now.” She faced them both and glanced around. Her head whipped out the side as she heard some tall man yelling about fighting Aklenroth. She grimaced and turned to face the others.

”Let’s go out the back door - less people.” She began to say, when a red haired female jumped up on a table. Belle watched with wide eyes as she tore off her mask and elf ears. Another human! Giddy with excitement, Belle watched her and chewed her lip. She listened to the woman and locked her eyes on her. She clenched her hands into fists and glanced around to see Elleta shaking her head. The woman did not know that she had been identified already, or about the voice. She’d have to explain it to her later. Belle swallowed. The Golden Death was here, and they looked to her as their leader. Either she’d embrace it, or leave it, and it didn’t seem as if it was a viable option to leave. Running away… Running away would make her a coward and Gaia hadn’t raised a coward. Belle gritted her teeth and looked at her friends. Her heart sank as she realized this might be the last time that she saw them. ”Both of you need to get out.” Belle’s tone became serious as she began to back away. ”I have enjoyed both of your friendships, and I wish nothing more for you to get to safety. Take the back door, and get out now.”

Belladonna took a deep breath and took her shoes off as she jumped onto a table away from her friends. She tore off her elf ears and mask. She set them by her feet and held her head high. ”Humans against Aklenroth!” Belle shouted as she raised a fist in the air. Some heads turned to face her as she let out a grin. Elleta, Morgayne, Rosemary and the like were staring at her with wide-eyes. There was a mixture of pride and also fear in their eyes, but they weren’t intervening. Elleta looked poised to move if anyone attacked her. She could feel the eyes of people watching her, but most importantly, the Golden Death. ”Down with the Lich! We may be different species, but we all have one thing in common: our hearts beat the same. We should be able to live with peace and harmony, and not in fear and hatred. Humans, I implore you to stand up and fight! Side with the Princess and bring harmony and peace to Avalia!” Belle stared at everyone and kept an impassive expression on her face. Her heart hadn’t beat this hard since the gang. She was prepared to fight and defend if necessary if it meant that Bowyn and Torvi would be able to escape. Besides, she was a leader wasn’t she? What kind of leader would bail on the rebellion?

'Oh mama, we all go to Hell....'

[FunnyGuy]

Time: Night
Location: Roshmi Grand Hall
Interaction: @Eviledd1984 O'Ner and @13org Myra

Darius stood quietly as more and more people echoed their desires for a revolution. He knew making such a bold declaration would stir up the crowd, but not to this magnitude. He also knew Aklenroth was not a benevolent ruler. Hell, he could even admit the dude was far from the type of king this world needed, but he wondered if things would spiral out of control due to his actions just now. It definitely was not something he was aiming for. He managed to witness Artemis depart from the ball, but not without delivering a clean punch to a guard who attempted to keep her from leaving. He went to go see what was going on, but a familiar voice stopped him.

When O'ner and Myra approached him, he gave them an uneasy smile. He had a lot of mixed feelings at the moment and was not sure if he had made the right move. Aklenroth could have him and his friends killed. And while on the topic of friends, where was Artemis running off too. It almost seemed like too much was going on at once.

"I'm fine, but Artemis just… she just left without a word and it looked like she got into a fight wi-" Darius stopped mid-sentence as he listened to a red-haired woman stand up on a table while making a declaration and revealing herself as a human. "Another?" Her appearance filled him with hope, but her words quickly snatched that same hope away. She did not need to say much for him to figure out how she would react to his proposal on leaving Avalia. He frowned for only a moment before realizing he needed to just accept her choice. She was surely one of the people he would need to look for once the ball concluded.

Then came the second woman who stood on a different table and made a similar declaration against Aklenroth. He noted her as well as someone he'd need to look for.

Darius was aware tension was building by the second, and it was partly his fault. But it was not supposed to turn out like this. People weren't supposed to be on tables or revealing their humanity to all of the guests in the ballroom. And due to this growing tension, he now wondered if the ball would become unsafe before immediately looking to Myra, the one who had been by his side from the start.

"We'll definitely be fine." Darius assured her with a stern expression. He couldn't let her see his doubt. Anything could happen at this point. And so he would remain observant and quiet amongst the guests for the time being.

[Potter]

Corvina

Time: Night
Location: Roshmi Grand Hall
Interaction: @Tae - Kenia ✦ @princess - Malachi
Mention @FunnyGuy - Darius ✦ @Tae - Elsea ✦
Ambience/Aesthetic Shade + The Devil Within

Cora rejoined Kenia and Malachi with tremors in her hands. She hugged both of them tightly, lingering more with Kenia. After she let go, they went to sit down. She wasn’t planning on telling trembling Kenia what he had said in fear of upsetting her. Now wasn’t the time or place. She was still reeling from her encounter. She jumped at the sudden image of Risa appearing on the screen. Cora felt her heart ache for Risa’s nervousness, but felt pride when she gained confidence. From there, the girl’s speech rolled on like a thunderstorm. Cora smiled faintly, then covered her mouth her hands to hide it. This princess was brave and admirable. She felt respect for the woman, whom she was glad to call her friend. Suddenly, the image flickered and Risa screamed. Cora briefly saw a gruesome image although thanks to Malachi, she hadn’t seen much of it. Wide-eyed and horrified, she turned and buried her head against his chest. Breathing unevenly and trembling now, Cora hugged him. Was this a possible fate for them? She hoped not. She let go when she felt Malachi begin to move and stared at him. Her vision blurred as she whipped her teary eyes.

”Yes, I think we should go right now.” Cora began to say when a man jumped on a table and began shouting his support for Risa. Others joined it, as the chants grew louder. The tension was tangible and could’ve been sliced through with a knife. To her surprise and horror, Elsea joined the shouting and jumped on a table and revealed her humanity. Her heart sank and crushed as she began fearing for the woman’s life. Next, a smaller and blonder girl stood up to yell similar proclamations. Cora stared at the two humans, then up to her elven parents. Cora commended them for their courage, although it was foolish to do with Aklenroth's forces undoubtedly here. She planted her feet and refused to let her eagerness overwhelm her. This was not part of the plan… Now what did they do?

As Cora moved to begin distancing herself from the chaos, she bumped into a red haired green-eyed Elven woman. The woman's black dress caught under her shoe and caused her to trip. Cora cried out and slammed into the floor as the women turned to face her. Briefly, her ears slipped and she quickly pulled her hands up to adjust them. Her hair had hidden most of it, but it had been enough for the women to notice. The woman stared at her with shock and quickly lent her a hand to pull her up. ”Thank you Miss, I am so sorry.” She quickly said and stared at her with a frown.

”That is quite all right my dear. It was my fault more than anything.” She turned to face the others with a friendly smile. ”I think we best all be leaving now, as it should abruptly… make a turn for the worst. Have a great evening, ladies and gent.” The woman disappeared into the crowd. Cora rubbed her eyes and faced the others with confusion. As she went to s[peak, she felt a cold chill run through her spine as the woman whispered for only Cora to hear, ”Until we meet again, Little Phoenix.” Cora whirled around to stare where the voice had come from, but saw nothing. Cora’s jaw dropped and she quickly began turning in each direction to find it, but there was nothing.

”What the hell?” Was she imagining it? Her heart rate quickened up as she stared with wide eyes and pale skin. ”I want to leave right now.” Her voice cracked as she felt frustration and anxiety beginning to rise. She moved closer to the elves for protection and sniffled. She missed Rei and hoped he was doing all right. He wasn’t missing anything here.

[Tae]

Time: Evening
Location: Roshmi Grand Hall
Interaction: @princess Malachi @Potter Cora

---

As Corvina embraced her, Kenia could feel herself beginning to calm a bit more. Cora was okay and that was a relief. She hugged the girl back tightly before giving her a shaky smile and sitting down in the chair Malachi had pulled out for her. Her attention was soon pulled to the vision of Risa speaking and she worried at first that this speech was going to be a trainwreck. The young fairy managed to pull herself together, however, and Kenia became rather impressed with how she approached things. Her eyes left watching Risa as she now scanned the crowd to see how people were reacting. It was quite obvious her words were moving some and getting them to think. Good. The more they could convince to rise up the better.

Risa’s scream is what pulled her back to looking at the woman in alarm, but instead of Risa there was a dead fairy girl. She quickly spun to look at Malachi and Cora, relieved to see that Malachi had blocked the human girl's view of the grotesque scene. Cora had buried her face in his chest and Kenia gave Malachi a thankful look. She didn’t need to see that. Kenia was on her feet in moments as she began scanning the crowd again. Someone had known what had been planned. Someone had known and hijacked the speech with this awful sight. That meant there was going to be more to come, she could almost guarantee it. Both Malachi and Corvina were eager to leave and she had to agree. She kept scanning the crowd for a moment longer, looking for potential enemies and witnessing others start speaking out.

Before she knew it, she spotted Elsea on a table trying to rile up more people. Stupid girl. She thought solemnly as she feared the human woman was in much more danger now. She should have gotten out when she had the chance. Another human joined in, but her attention was caught by Cora tripping and falling. She glanced at the elven woman whom she had tripped over and took note of her face. She seemed friendly enough, but anyone they came in contact with Kenia would be skeptical of. After Cora had gotten up, Kenia took hold of her hand in hopes to keep her from tripping over anyone else. ”It’s okay, we’re leaving right now.” She reassured the girl as she started slowly moving towards an exit.

She also grabbed hold of Malachi’s hand and pulled him closer to her. ”I fear something is going to happen, Malachi. Someone knew of the plan. I think chaos is about to erupt and it may be hard to stick together. If we get separated just focus on getting Cora out. I’ll go get Rei and we’ll meet back up when we meet with the others.” She whispered so only he could hear her while looking up at him. There was obvious fear and concern in her eyes as she held tightly to his hand without realizing it.

[FunnyGuy]

Time: Night
Location: Roshmi Grand Hall
Interaction with: @Dezuel Terneus, @Alivefalling Aklenroth, @Tae Azriel, and @Eviledd1984 O'ner

---

Elsea had left Umber with a wink and a smile but the gesture was nothing compared to her growing feelings towards Terneus. The way the interaction between all three of them was not what Umber wanted it to be, but it would suffice.

Besides, something became far more pressing than twisting his dear Elsea, as unbelievable as that seemed.

"I bid you farewell, King Andros." Umber said as if it was natural. Terneus' emotions were quite interesting, holding a rare mix of flavor. Some of his feelings that should have been positive were warped and mixed with negativity.

When Umber re-entered the ballroom, he laid his eyes on Risa's image. Disgusting… Fairies are so disgusting… Umber listened to Risa's speech, amused by her claims and her desire. Little did she know, Umber could simply use her inspiring speech as a means to sift out those who empathized with her… or could he? As he attempted to take in so many emotions at once, he winced in pain. It was still too much. Had he reached his limit?

Umber resorted to just watching and in doing so, he caught sight of the gruesome image that followed Risa's speech. His eyes widened as a sinister smile spread across his face. He couldn't help it. He was not only pleased with the artistic talent, but he also recognized it. Disgusting until they're twisted… by me…

"Why not take a chance! I stand with Princess Millinia! Down with the Lich King!"

Umber's head whipped in Darius' direction. He wanted to know what the fool was doing. Darius' emotions came off as conflicted, as if he was internally fighting with his decision to make such a proclamation. What a fool! To be so weak and betray so openly. I will shatter him...

But despite the demon's initial displeasure in Darius' words, he grew excited as he watched the effects that came from them. One by one, Aklenroth's enemies willingly and pridefully identified themselves. And it was not just rebels… but HUMANS. Umber had already identified or had strong hunches on some, but this display was just incredible. These humans were incredible. He laid his eyes on Elsea with her burning emotion and then to coward girl who was attempting to be brave. The climax was so close... Something needed to be done in its wake.

"Aklenroth. Azriel. General Faister, Commander Dreadclaw… Unintentional or not, it seems the human, Darius has won the game in identifying the most enemies to the throne… What is your bidding, Lich King?

[Helo]

Time: Evening
Location: Roshmi City
Interactions: Sakura @baraquiel and Ayita @13org

Cade simply could not contain his laughter at the thought of some fancy noble walking around with his every footstep emphasized by an audible fart sound. It was now clear that he had greatly misjudged the use of magic, while it would always be his opinion that combat should be with one’s own claws or a fine weapon, magic pranks did indeed sound delightful. Even as he tried to pay attention to Ayita’s words he kept chuckling to himself at the mental image Sakura had painted. His amusement ended at the mention of the lich and a human who was working with him. Although he could understand her frustration at such a thing, he too could have once been described as someone who had never had to fight for anything, who chose to stay blind to the way the world really was, and it had taken a great deal to open his own eyes as well.

He did not put his thoughts to words though, as the image of the Princess Risa then appeared in the ballroom. He smiled as the impassioned fairy gave her speech, a sense of pride as the once great leadership Avalia had known was reflected in the fairy’s words and determined expression. His smile vanished as the next image appeared, a mangled fairy, slaughtered and entangled in thorny vines. He let out a low growl at the sight of such cruelty. He nodded at Ayita as she spoke, agreeing with her, protecting Risa was important for both Avalia and to help the humans. As much as he wanted to raise his voice with the others speaking up in rebellion to the lich, Cade kept quiet to ensure the safety of his human companion.

“I met her earlier this night and I do not doubt her words. Avalia has much to fight for, but this is not the place for a fight, we should find a way out of here. Cade said in agreement. The ballroom was too tightly packed, and with many who were certainly not their allies, such as the elven governor. This was not a battlefield but a room better designed for a slaughter. He scanned the room for any viable exits as a handful of other humans began removing their disguises and speaking up in rebellion, including one on a table right near them. They too were welcoming danger to themselves just as Risa had done, and leaving now seemed selfish knowing that if they became trapped within the masses they would suffer a fate similar to the mangled fairy that had been put on display seconds ago.

”But we cannot just leave these humans in danger. The princess will be at the port town soon, perhaps we should ensure these people get out safely.” Cade added, these humans were most certainly their allies and leaving them behind to ensure his own safety or even to possibly help the princess seemed wrong. He struggled to fight the urge to leap on a table and pledge his support to the cause as well. The red haired woman on the table nearby spoke with passion about fighting for his home and all he wanted was to do the same, to display courage without any fear of who noticed it. But he was not a creature who could easily blend into a crowd and a great many had seen him with his companions. Cade did not wish to unmask them as rebels the way it might if he unmasked himself as one. "Or maybe you two should find the princess and I can meet back up with you after." Cade offered, determined not to leave potential allies in danger.

[Helo]

Time: Evening
Location: Roshmi Hall
Interactions: @TaeTorvi, @PotterBelle

Bowyn, now greatly annoyed, stared at both Belle and Torvi who seemed reluctant to share their suspicions of danger with him. Why? Because he was kind of in a good mood and a little bit drunk? Did they really think he would prioritize that over their collective safety? The image that was mystical cast into the ballroom, however, was far more disturbing than the worries his friends had shared. The princess who had so arrogantly pranced around the ball now broadcasted a message of rebellion complete with the dramatically acted show of remorse for abducting humans for her cause in the first place. He had to wonder if she cared even a bit for the amount of danger she had thrust upon every life within Roshmi Hall. He wondered if the image of the broken and bloodied fairy had been one foolish enough to put their trust in Risa as well. The same voice that spoke with willingness to go to war screamed as the corpse of the fairy was shown and so he could only imagine this was the sort of fate she led her supporters to.

The sight of the murdered fairy coupled with Risa’s speech seemed to have a vastly different effect on the majority to the room, with several people voicing their support. In a room, with only a handful of useful exits many of which were being heavily guarded, an assortment of idiots jumped on tables and announced themselves as rebels. Bowyn wasn’t aware that becoming a martyr was such a coveted title, but there seemed to be quite a handful of people clamoring to be the first to earn it. He also hadn’t expected the strange and overwhelming displays of emotions from his friends either. He shook his head as Torvi hugged him, apologizing for putting him in danger, before kissing his cheek.

“I put myself in danger, Torvi, that was my choice. While I have many regrets, that is not one of them.” He whispered back, and it was mostly true. Perhaps if he did die here he would regret it, but the rest, traveling with Torvi and meeting Belle, not so much. At the very least, had he not encountered Torvi he would not know of the terrible fate that had befallen Aeryn, and had he not traveled to Roshmi with her he would not now have friends. If he did die here, he did not want them to think he died for their sake, because it was a heavy burden to bear to know another had given their life for yours, and he did not wish that on them.

“You have nothing to be sorry for Blue.” He said, responding to Belle, disappointed that they both felt the need to apologize to him for their shared danger. It wasn’t like either of them would be capable of talking him into doing anything if he truly didn’t want to, he was an expert at stubbornness after all. Belle too seemed to be caught up in the dramatic display of foolishness that so many others were succumbing to and Bowyn impulsively decided to show them both just how stubborn a fairy could be. Bowyn stretched out his wings and with a slight jump used them to carry himself up to Belle who stood on the table.

“Leave out the backdoor huh? Good idea maybe you should listen to your own advice, even Risa was smart enough not to do this here. What’s it gonna be; dying in a ballroom for show, or living to fight another day? Either way I’ll only leave if you do.” Bowyn said, as he hoped this wasn’t going to be the decision he would end up regretting. He wasn’t entirely sure how long he planned to stick out this game of chicken but he wasn’t going to let someone he cared about casually toss their life away just because others were doing the same. As he waited for her response he felt a spike of adrenalin, and wondered if maybe actually feeling alive was a better use of the extension his life had been given rather than simply existing.

[baraquiel]

---

TIME: Evening
LOCATION: The Grand Ball, Roshmi City
INTERACTIONS: Cade @Helo, Ayita @13org, Elsea @Tae

---

Sakura couldn't believe what she heard from Ayita. A human was helping Aklenroth? There was no way Ayita's kin would ever help the undead, let alone a lich king like Aklenroth unless they were brainwashed or were forced to serve him. They probably cast a spell on that human, or maybe, just maybe, they ordered a demon to possess their bodies. The demoness looked at the crowd around their trio. If there were humans in this place, they would probably in disguise, perhaps posing as elves like Ayita since it's the easiest for them. Sakura wanted to ask Ayita more about what she learned from this human before they would leave towards this port town Cade mentioned.

However, she was interrupted when a hologram of Risa appeared on the Ball's windows and spoke to the crowd. She gave a speech about the dark elves hunting her, about the humans and how she urged them to work together with the rebels to fight against Aklenroth, and she guessed Risa's official proclamation of usurping the lich king from his throne. Sakura noticed all eyes were on the holograms and she took it as a chance to scour the crowd for any potential threats. Before she could, Risa's hologram changed into an image of a fairy's corpse, her body all covered in blood; it was basically just a horrid display that Sakura would've found impressive if she were back in Daka Island.

It was pure chaos. The haughty elf from earlier, Terneus, ordered the guards and prevent anyone from escaping. Among the crowd, a series of chants started, all screaming for Aklenroth's defeat as they seemed to be inspired by what they've seen and heard from the fairy princess. People were fighting with the guards as they all tried to escape and run away from here as fast as possible. Even the humans took their disguises off and proudly proclaimed their loyalty to Risa despite the danger they're being faced with, especially this girl who bravely got on the table next to them and took off her disguise, showing that she's a human too.

'Finally, the fun has begun!'. Sakura thought evilly to herself.

Ayita suggested to find Risa immediately and leave. They needed to protect the leader of the rebellion if they wanted to have even a single chance of defeating an enemy, plus it will also make them be very prominent and trustworthy members of the rebels. Cade, on the other hand, didn't want to leave some of the humans behind as they could be the keys to defeating Aklenroth. The lich king wouldn't even announce that they should be brought to him dead or alive if they didn't have any importance in turning the tides of battle after all. Both of Sakura's friends were right, so the only problem was finding a way to accomplish both tasks.

"Alright, I'll go with Ayita to find and protect the fairy princess so we can get her out of her. Cade, you round up as many humans as you could and then leave. Bring this human with you too." She said as she pointed at the one standing at the table next to them. "Once we're out there..." Sakura procured two marked talismans and gave Ayita and Cade one each. "Tear them up and these will guide you to me. Remember, our objective is to escape from here and get away as far as possible so keep the fighting to a minimum if you can. Cade, be safe out there. Come on, Ayita." She patted the large cat man on the shoulder before she set off with Ayita to find the fairy princess.

Sakura noticed two guards grabbing a screaming light elf so she threw talismans packed with energy at them, hitting them on the chest and sending them flying away. She threw another talisman straight outside and it continued to fly through the night sky as it made its way towards a specific group Sakura had in mind. The talisman had a message for them, the three words that the group had waited to hear for a very long time:

It is time.

[Tae]

Time: Evening
Location: Roshmi Grand Hall
Interactions: @Helo Bowyn @Potter Belle
Mentions:

---

It took a moment for Torvi to register what Belle was saying, but as it became clear what she was about to do she spun on the woman. ”Don’t you even think about-” Before she could finish, the woman was gone and jumping on a table. Pure anger filled Torvi, but she wasn’t sure if it was because the girl was throwing her life away to save her and Bowyn or if it was because she’d beat Torvi to doing so. Either way she wasn’t going to have it and it seemed like Bowyn wasn’t either.

Bowyn got to Belle before she did thanks to his ability to fly, but Torvi wasn’t far behind as she roughly shoved through the crowd. She also kicked off her shoes while doing so, hating how the heels slowed her down. Never again did she want to wear those wretched things. Truly she didn't understand the point of them.

She finally reached the table and snatched up Belle's discarded ears before climbing on the table herself. Bowyn seemed to be scolding her, giving her a choice even yet also expressing to her that he wasn't going to leave unless she did as well. Truly he was being kind in a way, but Torvi wasn't about to be as kind. She was angry with Belle and didn't think the woman deserved a choice. So with that she grabbed the girl, easily picking her up and tossing her over her shoulder before looking to Bowyn. "Don't worry Bowyn, she's leaving whether she likes it or not. Let's go." She said, her face stern yet there was obvious anger hidden behind her eyes. She jumped down from the table and began trying to make her way towards an exit, ready to fight anyone who tried to stop her or her friends.

[hide on mana]

Time: Evening
Location: Roshmi Hall
Interactions:
BGM: Avalia OST - Kuroi's Epiphany

Inventory

Wallet: 65 Amas
Bank: 3,500

Gear

• Formal Wear
• Wakizashi
• Two razor-sharp metal fans [Only one on him at the moment]
• Throwing Knives [At home]
• Rope Darts [At home]
• Climbing Claws [At home]

Items

• Drystone (For sharpening weapons) [At home]
• Gourd of water
• Steel wire
• Caltrops [At home]
• Smoke Bombs [At home]
• Large Red Potions (x3) [At home]
• Medium Red Potions (x3) [At home]
• Magic Resistance Potions (x2) [Black]
• Antidote/Medicine (x1) [Green]

---

As Kuroi sat there and pondered his recent choices and happenings in life, he couldn't help but keep pondering about the current state of the realm. He was a privileged individual as compared to many others in Avalia. He knew of the Lich King's tyranny and was glad to have not been affected by his wrath. Yet if he were to rebel and go with either Belle or Elsea, he had his parents to worry about - could he rightfully do so without bringing harm to those dear to him? And was it worth being rightfully branded a criminal? All Kuroi knew was that he despised the Lich King almost as much as Terneus - he would happily bring death to the two of them if he could.

The vulpine had been brought up to always keep sensitive and controversial beliefs to himself, only showing the part of him that wouldn't land him in a Dark Elf-run prison. He could only wonder if the gods were pushing him to make the ultimate choice of his life thus far. It was at this very moment though, that the vulpine looked upon the fairy princess who began her speech. Although Kuroi found himself astounded, and maybe even surprised, some part of him deep down knew it was only time until the tyranny was publically denounced. To him, it seemed that Roshmi truly might be the start of a civil war. Kuroi had placed down his empty glass and continued to listen to the princess' speech. Everything seemed rather brave and just to him until the image of the hung fairy was shown to the entire building.

His eyes widened and his ears suddenly stood up. The fox's tail went stiff and his fists clenched in anger - a feral growling began to emanate from the back of his throat, his teeth bared as fury overtook him. It was at this moment, seconds before anyone began to chant their opposition to Alkenroth that Kuroi stood up and began to make his way through the crowds. In his eyes, Kuroi finally realized the path the gods were pushing him to go on, and who was he to say that he shouldn't after all these signs and events in his life? His shoulder brushed past one of the dark elf guards and it took all his inner strength not to push the bastard away. Stopping in his tracks, he eventually looked up at both of the human beauties who had danced with him earlier this evening.

Anxiety and foul anticipation overtook him, causing second-hand fear to whelm up within him. Now was not the time to publically reveal his awakened opposition against the Lich King or the governor. Instead, he merely stood between the two tables where Elsea and Belle protested and encouraged everyone else to rise up with them. Something in the back of his mind still nagged at him though, causing the hairs on his neck to stand up alongside his ears and tail. His left hand wrapped itself around the hilt of his wakizashi whilst his right had already opened up his razor-sharp fan, hiding his lower face with it as he paced around both of the human women protectively.

He had chosen a figure-eight route around the two tables they were on and kept his eyes out for any suspicious or violent figures who dared dethrone them at this moment. Something bad was about to happen - his intuition knew that the time to reveal himself was soon.

[Alivefalling]

Time: Evening
Location: Roshmi Grand Hall
Interactions:@Tae@FunnyGuy@Helo@baraquiel@13org@Eviledd1984@Dezuel@dreamingflowers@Potter@hide on mana

Aklenroth had enough watching the dances but something surprised him when Risa had come on a hologram spewing a speech about the dark elves and freeing Avalia. It was moving and impressive from a child. He was a bit amused by it but then the scene changed to a young fairy hung up by vines and brutally killed in such a display; it pleased him to see the experiments that he had come up with were such a success.

After the holograms finished, he watched as Darius made an uproar which was quite amazing
how many foolish rebels and humans had revealed themselves after the fact. He felt Darius deserved a reward for this glorious display. Aklenroth then took this moment to move to the hidden back room to turn off the central magic inhibitor. Once finished, he casted a telepath spell and began speaking to Umber. “I have grown tired of this display against my will, lock down the area for the moment and tell Azriel to release Ahzmorath and alert Sakura, O’ner, Xenelith, Myra and Darius to stay away from the center of the ball area.”

"As you wish." Umber's tone was filled with amusement as the grand finale was on its way. Not only that, but he could feel his power returning to him. With a small twitching of his fingers, he created telekinetic barriers on the exits. Next was the warning to those Aklenroth wished to spare

"General Faister, Commander Dreadclaw, Sakura, Darius, Myra… move away from the center of the ballroom if you wish to live to see another evening. Now!"

Azriel had remained at the edge of the ballroom, just observing the crowd as they continued to dance. She wasn’t expecting the image of the fairy brat to appear and for her to speak of rebellion. She rolled her eyes and shook her head at the foolish girl, but couldn’t help wonder if her words truly would stir others. It was then that the image of the dead fairy girl appeared and Risa’s scream sounded like music to her ears. She looked over the scene and smirked as she wondered if Umber and Aklenroth were proud of their little creation. It truly was a beautiful scene.

Her attention was torn away as she heard a familiar voice speaking out and she looked to see Darius. Her eyes narrowed on him briefly, but then a grin appeared once more as she began to giggle. What was the clever human up to? It became clear, however, as others began to speak out and humans began to show themselves. How truly clever this human was. She then glanced up to see Aklenroth disappear from sight and she readied herself as she knew that the next phase of the night was about to happen and she had a role to play.

"You will release the demon on my mark, Azriel. I greeted these fools. Now it is time to bid them farewell."

Umber chuckled as he watched a group of guests hit his invisible wall at an exit.

"Guests! Guests! May I have your attention!" He had been loud enough to get the majority of people's attention. It would suffice. "Before we move onto bigger and better things, I would like to use this time to thank you all for attending this magnificent event! I would like to thank the staff for the arrangements. The cooks for the splendid food. And lastly, the rebels… who forfeited their lives for the throne." The elf form of Caius stiffened up before long black arms burst through his torso, causing blood to spew onto nearby guests. In swift yet grotesque moves, the arms tore the form of Caius away to reveal the large demon hidden inside. Umber floated the first moment he was released from the frail elf. Using his ability to speak within the minds of others, he targeted all in attendance.

"Whether in life or in death. ALL HAIL AKLENROTH!"

”Finally!” Azriel almost groaned, but excitedly flew high up above the crowd. She pulled out the crystal Aklenroth had entrusted to her and admired it for a brief moment. "Time for my speech." She said with a giggle before tossing the crystal into the air, towards the center of the hall before swiftly throwing one of her feathers at it. She hit with deadly accuracy and watched as it cracked and shattered, quickly backing away yet staying in the air.

As the crystal shattered, a DROM-like rift appeared near the ceiling. Fingers began to reach through, stretching and tearing it open further as the head of a demon peered through releasing a loud roar that sent tremors through the walls of the building.

“We are dishonoured, abandoned, rotting in the scum of damnation. For eternity we have been consigned to oblivion, pushed to the shadows of existence. The day Lilith returns, the sun will drown, the oceans will be scoured with blood, and the rise of the demons will come to punish your souls.” Ahzmorath spoke in a booming voice. He ripped his way out of the rift, dropping down to the floor crushing some poor unlucky citizens. The demon was large enough to take up much of the ballroom, the attendees practically mice under his feet.

Ahzmorath began swinging his arm down to scoop someone else as he did, he grabbed Xenelith who was unfortunately too close. Xenelith tried to fight back using his magic blasting at the demon’s face but his attempts were futile against a demon this large. Ahzmorath slowly lifted the dark elf to his mouth before dropping him and closing down on him, swallowing him whole. He then looked down at the rest of the screaming and terrified creatures. “Who is next?”

Ahzmorath

[Dezuel]

Terneus Andros

One of the noble eyebrows of Terneus had risen slighlty upon hearing one of the ball attendees raise his voice and address the crowd which were scattered all over the grand hall. It was with a mixture of disgust and rolling of his eyes that he listened to the man, who was obviously trying really hard to flatter the king. What did the lich king have that he didn't have? Aside from his powers. Terneus was confident that he was indeed more fashionable, more fair in both judgement and looks and far more liked by the people. Especially his people. Ofcourse there were every now and then a critic, but such could easily be dealt with using ol'chop chop. The somewhat cheery name for the guilliotine located in the middle of the light elven place where Terneus governed. As a sign of his power over life and death, of justice and order. This man which had addressed the crowd however seemed to not be what he appeared to be. The noble elf seemed to recall seeing him before, but maybe it was just his imagination. After all, commoners and those of not as noble blood as his own all looked the same. More or less. The new form the man had taken were however far more grotesque, and to what Terneus was concerned this man was no man at all. He was a monster... or a demon... to Terneus these words were more or less the same and not overly far away from orcs, dark elves or demi-humans either.

The governor reached for his napkin, placing it before his nose as if to ward off some possible incoming smell.

'Yeuch. Revolting. All these heaps of meat and no brains.' The elf thought from his elevated position, leaning slightly over the railing to observe what was going on below.

Terneus could soon after see a winged creature, whereof it was male or female was beyond even his perception. Not like there was an easy way to distinguish one kind of dirt with another anyhow, at least that's how he regarded it. It wasn't an important matter. But the feathered thing had tossed something in the middle of the hall and hurling something quick to hit it. Even the overly gifted and humble governor had to agree it was indeed a quick action. Then came the rift. The elf pushed himself off the railing and took a step back, his eyes widening and his jaw dropping slightly. What was going on?

'What in the pure elven graces is going on? A DROM? No this is-' He felt sweat falling down his face and he suddenly felt both warm and cold at the same time, a cold shiver down his spine as he watched as a large creature, far larger than the one which had spoken to the crowd, had begin to make it's way through the rift.

'A demon. An old demon. He thought quickly, trying to fathom that this was indeed happening and he was located within the same building as the rebel scum and this monstrousity. The elf stood still for a few moments, watching as the demon crushed a few people under it's feet. One of them being the pigfaced man who he had encountered earlier, then the demon had swooped down and picked up a dark elf. Not just any dark elf but Commander Dreadclaw. Terneus blinked a few moments, as if trying to collect himself. Was this really happening? Then the demon had bitten down on the dark elf, seemingly killing him.

"Yes!" He exclaimed in a joyous manner, his hand tightening into a fist as he raised it slightly, he felt like he had scored a victory on seeing one of his enemies get killed. Before he snapped back to the grave situation, there was something far more important than looking at the carnage and destruction of his enemies, or capturing rebels or a human. That thing was to preserve his own life, for what was more important? He couldn't think of anything even coming close. Then he turned around swiftly and began to move up the stairs towards the balcony, he had to find a way to get down from that place.

'While those mindless sheep get butchered in there, I shall use my great intellect and make my own retreat...' He thought in a smug manner, if such a thing even was possible. That's when he went facefirst into an invisible wall, his mask slamming into something he couldn't see. The mask fell off his face and began to fall down the stairs before stopping.

'What?! A warding here? You must be jesting with me! I am not going to be made a fool of, not here, not anywhere! Not ever! These damned stairs.' He mentally cursed his predicament as he turned back to move down the stairs to the railing where he had stood before, albeit a distance away from it, just for safety measures.

'Where is that useless piece of trash Commander Feldrin. This is all his fault.' The elf grunted lowly as he surveyed the grand hall and the demon again, and then he saw his commander. He was moving towards the direction of the stairs, albeit closely to the middle of the room. 'Ahh there he is, once I get my hands on that good for nothing...' Terneus snarled and glared in the direction of his commander who moments later bumped into another person and fell to the floor, before the demon descended it's feet at him, crushing him in an instant, leaving only a bloody mess behind.

'Argh! That idiot! Now I need to find another commander, how I hate having to do all the hard work all the time. Elven gods of old, why must you test me so?' He lamented in grief, not over losing his commander, but over him having to waste time finding another.

If only he could get outside, he could make it to his carriage and- his carriage... The elf's face grew grim and his frown clear as day. How could he have been trapped indoors with these rats and none had told him? Was it that difficult to alert the most highly esteemed and respected elf of the lands that something was being prepared for the rebels? So what could he do now? It was wreaking havoc below, and he had no intention of putting himself on the line unless he knew he could gain something from it. If the rebels would somehow fight it and be winning... then maybe he could unleash his powerful magics on it and get the glory. But that would earn the ire of the king. But if he just stayed up there and the rebels lost, then he could possibly have to face that demon by himself.

Ofcourse no low-life demon, no matter it's size could possibly stand against his brilliant mind and magic, but if there were no witnesses of his heroic and legendary power, how could he possibly benefit from it. The dilemmas plagued him as he watched the chaos unfold from his little nest. Sooner or later the wards would surely go down and then he could withdraw from there. Even if everyone else in the hall had to die, as long as he made it out it would all be worth it. As long as he survived. His eye began to twitch violently as his sanity began to tingle.

[Dezuel]

Zelginn

Zelginn had perked his ears up and his tail had flapped from side to side very fast on hearing Caius words to the crowd of people within the grand hall. Then moments later Caius had revealed his true form, and it was one which Zelginn knew of. But not only that, Azriel had opened a rift to welcome an old aqquaintence into the ball. The fox boy smiled broadly when he saw who it was.

"Ahaha? This is great! I haven't seen him in ages!" He said aloud in a cheery manner to some frightened women next to him, some of whom had pinched his cheeks earlier. The looks on their faces were that of terror and stress, they couldn't understand what had caused the small boy to be so cheerful.

"It's time~" He snickered before he leaned down abit, placing his hands on the floor as darkness would begin to swirl around him, his small frame beginning to distort and grow. His limbs extending, his face elongating and his tail growing longer. The eyes of the fox-looking boy had soon shifted in both shape and colours as his form began to grow, and grow and grow. His hands and feet turned into large clawed paws, his teeth and jaw grew significantly. His white fur began to become grey and then darker until it became black. The form was growing to the size of a horse before it stopped and the large black fur ridden tail swirled around, knocking a few people over. The fox boy was gone, and had been replaced with a creature of nightmares, close akin to that of the demon which was now unleashed into the room.

Darkmane appearance and size comparison with Baraian

"Grr! Darrrkmane hungers! Let us feassssst dear brotherrr, to honor our motherrrr and the rrrrightful king!" A growling voice came from the fur clad beast, as he lifted his head to unleash a terrifying howl across the room, his eyes quickly scanned his surroundings until he found what he was looking for. The woman which had taken his food before. Myra. Zelginn took a lunging leap forwards, biting hold of some unfortunate souls in his path towards Myra, hurling them to the sides and into the direction of Ahzmorath.

She ate his chicken, now he was going to eat her. His jaws opened wide as he attempted to snap them shut around Myra would he get close enough.

[Alivefalling]

Time: Evening
Location: Outskirts in the trees not far from Roshmi Hall
Interactions: @princess@Dezuel

Kyran watched Risa give her speech and smiled. She was nervous at first but her passion lifted her off very quickly. The speech was beyond her years and she seemed grown-up. He did not think he could fall more in love with her but he did in that moment, listening to her. He was proud of how far Risa had come but the smile faded very quickly seeing Dionaea’s corpse cruelly displayed in front of Risa.

He fell to the floor as images of Dionaea flew through his mind. He had known her since they had been children and they had seen the best and worst of each other. As close as he and Dionaea had been, Risa and Dionaea had been even closer and it tore him apart for Risa to have seen that. Then things got even worse as he watched a figure move towards Risa and grab her. With further inspection, he noticed it was Elthrael. Rage filled every inch of his being and then pain stretched all over his body as he had started to become something else.

His body shook and contorted as he gripped his head. Fur started to coat only parts of his body and his eyes started to change into a deep red glow. This was not his normal fox form; this was beyond the power that he thought he had, darkness clouded his thoughts as he began to lose himself. He yelled out in anguish and pain as his body began to morph.

“K̮̯͋̄IḺ̭̏͋̄ͅL̠̰̰̍̉̕,̰̫̼̤̍͆́̇ ̙͕̋̚K̻͙̦̃̑̚Ï̧͕͉̫̇͠͡L̲̳̄̒L̗͇͐͡,̖͈͇̤͒̓͛͡ ͖̬͖̖̠̊̓̿͛͘H̰̓A̘͛T̫̰̈́̆E̪̹̓̍,͈͚̊̇ Ĥ̩̿ͅÄ̢̦͙̋͋͘͜TE̢͞ ̢̀I̡̛̥͍̞͑̍͘ ̖̯̖͒́͘W͕͓̿͛IL̖̲̉͒L̡̦͇̻̮̋̋̔́͝ ͕͙̗͙̻̊̎͗͊̓M͓͉̽͠Á͇̬̟̲͊͆̕K̨̭͔̝̔̃̈́̅È̻̲̳͚̓̓͝ ̨̹̳̠̠́͐̈́̃͡TH̯̟͚͈̆̀̐͝E̼̰̐͝Ḿ̗̟͈̽͒ ̨͖̪̝̼͛̿͝͡͡A͕͚͛͡L͍̘̞͐͊͑L̛̞̟̈́̈́͢ ̤̠̲̀́̈́Š̙̙͆U̺̙̥͖̯̇̂̕̕͡F̧̨̞͎̍̓̆͘F̧̮͑́̉͢E̮̩̍̑͞ͅR͔͐!͕͝”

Kyran was not himself, blind with an endless rage and hatred. He looked up at Risa only to watch her be swiped from the tree. Desperation filled him. He could not lose her now, not after everything. Kyran tried to give chase but as he got closer he lost sight of what he was doing there, nothing but animalistic desire and primal rage filled his mind; what was once considered demi-human was now only a beast. Kyran’s desire gave in when he smelled something else... The smell of meat cooking. That was when he turned and gave chase to find where this new scent originated.

E͍̤̣̋̔̉Ă̛̘̲͎̝̙̅̆̿S̡͎͒͑I͍͂̀́͢͜Ĕ̻̣͆͋͜R͎̗̓̏ P̠̮̦͖̯̀̎͆̿̓Ŗ̄E̺͗Y̧̪̼͋̐̾ ͈̥̤͐̓̚I̲̜̫̘͊́̄́ ̼͡M̜̰͙͋̎̆́ͅÙ͍̪̗̮̬̀̓͐̀S̤̖̦͊́͝T̜̞̦̄́̈͢͡ ̛͙͉̑͌͜Ḟ̨͕̰͂͒E̮̤̠̊̏͒̕͟Ĕ͎̳͙̼̲̈́̑͋́D͚̙͎͌̎́!̨͚͈̖̗̋̄̀͠͠!̦͞!͓̒

Dark form

[Dezuel]

Baraian Paladice

Upon hearing the words of Caius, the dark elf had remained quiet and leaning up against one of the walls in the grand hall. He knew that the possibility of a trap being made was highly possible, but the humans would nontheless likely be drawn towards it like moths to the flame.

'In life or death. All hail the king, the king will soon be dead. Along with everything else.' Baraian thought to himself, watching the attendees get more unruly and panic strickened, even more so when some winged woman had opened a rift. This was not a calculation that Baraian had expected, even less the large demon which came through it and began to spread chaos across the entire room. Grabbing, stepping and barging through various people. Even seemingly eating some. This enemy was not something he could easily dispatch on his own, especially not with his recent injury. When he thought of it, who within the ballroom could possibly stop this juggernaut of a creature from ending the rebellion right here? This wasn't good, if the rebellion would die here then he would have to spend who knows how many years to build up another Golden Death and wait for a second wave of humans. This obviously was not a liked option. He had waited too long for this, the earth and skies screamed for revolution and liberation. It had to be given to it right now.

There had been various humans revealing themselves in the grand hall, much to his own displeasure, whilst he had expected someone to yell out and cause a mess. To have so many of them reveal themselves were simply just folly to him. So much folly in fact that he realized that at least one of these humans must have been aligned with the lich king, attempting to lure the rest out by stating their stance. This was a most likely case, and such also concluded there were a very cunning human about. Just how gifted were these humans anyhow? That even the lich king feared them so much? They must not die so early in the rebellion, that was important to Baraian. They needed to further spread mayhem across the land. Drive the elves, the fairies, the demi-humans, orcs, dark elves... every race on Avalia had to be plunged into the conflict. They however had to band together first to kill the lich, after that he could personally support each faction by giving them useful information about the rest. So that the most amount of damage could be done. Drawing the largest armies to duke it out with each other until nothing would remain.

It was this dream, the only reason he still drew breath. The world he hated and the creatures which inhabitated it, himself included had to be rooted out and disappear forever. The dark elf's thoughts fell on Illan for a moment. If only all would have been like Ilan then there would be no reason for the world to be destroyed, however the real world wasn't as kind as such a fairy tale! The dark elf slid his way across the wall of the grand hall, glancing to the warded exits as people slammed into them, trying to get away.

'There's something beautiful about seeing the true nature of life being shown at the verge of death. Trying to save each other, step on one-another, trying to press yourselves over the bodies of others. You all deserve to die in this world, together with me.' He thought as he lowered his head, watching some other large beast rampage in another section of the hall. The rebellion had to survive for now however, if there were no exit to be taken, there had to be an exit made. The dark elf glanced at one of the large walls of the building. If he could lure that brute of a demon to slam with it's massive arms or weight it could possibly breach the walls, thus creating a passage for the rebellion to live on.

He relocated himself to a fitting wall where he thought it was thin enough, before he reached out with his dark magics, his aim set on the large creature. Whilst knowing his magic would no doubt only be able to tickle it, as long as he could grab it's attention he could possibly lure it to do as he please. He readied himself also for the moment when he had to dip into the shadowy magic to avoid getting flattened or grabbed by the thing. To make sure the little miss which was leading the Golden Death was also important. She was after all unwittingly doing his work for him and would save him much strain and bother.