Dezuel

Realms of Sun & Shadow

Ayel Raunefeldt

He was nervous, he could feel the butterflies in his stomach. If people would know of his secret romance he would be mocked for ages, but as noble as he were he couldn't turn a blind eye to it.

"We cannot do this, it's not safe. Think of the gossip..." Ayel said in a low voice, he was worried.

"It doesn't matter. I want you. I love you. I will not wait. I can't..." The voice came back to him, like the sweetest honeyed voice imaginable. Any lesser man would have faltered in the blink of an eye. His adversary was on par with him, a worthy opponent.

"We need to think this through, if rumors would get out we'd- Is that skin lotion type seven you are using?" Ayel asked as he inspected his beloved's skin, he allowed a faint blush to decorate his face. He was smitten.

"It's the limited edition with western grapefruit scent. Your favorite." The voice came back silky smooth, as if every word was directly licking his noble brain. Before he had known it, he had permitted his beloved to touch his face with the fingers.

He felt all tingly on the inside, in a way he would only feel by drinking the outmost expensive wine, or punishing the poor. It was a truly remarkable feeling, one which he savoured.

"Mmm... I could take a bite out of you, but one bite wouldn't be enough. I want more." Ayel said in a resolute manner, his gaze fixed on the one in front of him.

"Mylord." His beloved said in an urgent voice, Ayel looked down at his noble hand, reaching out to the subject of his love, his gaze looking back up.

"Mylord!" The voice changed and became more loud and crude, almost as if. Ayel's eyes widened in horror as the love of his life, bearing his own face, had warped and taken on the form of Faldrin. His servant. The marquess awoke with a scream and gasped, his hands shaking. Sweat dropping down his forehead. He was in his carriage. He had been graced by a wonderful dream, only for it to be completely ruined. He felt a knot in his stomach as he recalled seeing Faldrin in his beloved's place. He wanted to throw up. But he held back. Throwing up were for less refined people and peasants which couldn't drink moderately.

His nausea was soon replaced with anger as he heard knockings on his carriage door. He cussed and took of the net-like headwear he wore while sleeping to keep his hair orderly. The noble flung the door open, slamming it right into the face of his loyal servant Faldrin.

"What?! I mean... what is it? I was having the most exquisite dream, well... at least until the lacking finale." He said in an annoyed voice, he hoped there was a good reason for his rude awakening.

"Mylord, I have some good and bad news. The good news is that the roof is done, the door and windows too. It was very difficult but we managed despite the weather." Faldrin explained while holding unto his face.

"Excellent. And the bad news? Do not test my limited but vast patience, Faldrin." Ayel added as he stepped out of the carriage.

"Hubert didn't make it." Faldrin said in a saddened voice looking down at the ground.

"Who?" Ayel raised a questioning noble eyebrow.

"Hubert. One of the workers. He got a a severe cold and fever from too much exposure to the blizzard. He died." Faldrin said, taking off his hat to mourn the loss of their travelling companion.

"Oh no. This is awful!" Ayel said in a way which could be seen as a mix of outrage and surprise.

"This is going to make the construction take longer by like seventeen percent! Argh! Why is these minor setbacks always coming my way?!" He grasped the ruffle by his shirt in a fit of frustration, then moved his bothersome hair out of his face.

"Well. I suppose we are going to have to find another Aurelian peasant here to replace the one lost. At least there is some comfort knowing he was not paid in advance. So all in all. I think we may cut even. Now however I am going to have to waste my precious time to make a official notice that we are hiring Aurelian serfs. I will write this myself, as it is crucial to make these workers know that I don't need them but they need my coin." He offered a smile, his mood having improved significantly.

"Where shall we bury our fallen friend? The Aurelian way by fire? Burial in the ground?" Faldrin asked genuinely saddened.

"Who? What friend? Oh the worker? Burial? Oh don't be silly Faldrin. Burials are expensive, and Herbert didn't even finish his work, he has set me back. In fact he owes me. And starting a fire? No no, that would draw too much questions. Commoners should be quiet and not draw attention, even in death." Ayel spoke out in a defensive and slightly agitated manner.

"Hubert." Faldrin corrected then proceeded. "But what about his family? He had a wife and two small children…" It weighed heavily on the aide and he hoped that his employer would have a big enough heart to at the very least send them the coin for the work Hubert did do.

"Yes, yes. But I am thinking of his family. Imagine the costs of moving all the way to Dawnhaven and the dangers on the road, not to mention all the weeping and whining. I think saving them the trip is the most merciful thing to do. And the most cost effective. Now take the fallen worker's body out of Dawnhaven and toss him out to the wild animals. Perhaps the local wildlife will show me more gratitude than he did." The marquess said in a elaborate way as if he was spinning a scheme.

"Mylord Raunefeldt, you who have such a great heart and wealth beyond many peoples imagination. Surely you can spare some for the fallen worker's family?" Faldrin pleaded as he bowed his head.

"Poppycock! I will do no such thing, while my heart is vast and grand, it too has it's limits. I have to prioritize the people of more importance. In fact, I think this Herbert worker knew he was going to kick the bucket and decided to accept the task just so he could swindle me out of my hard earned coin! I wouldn't put it past these coin devouring peasants, he likely died on purpose! They are so vindictive and vile, seeking in their envy to stain my flawless and noble record and heraldry. Generations on generations of purity and magnificence." Ayel caressed his shirt as he attached his rings on each of his fingers.

"Mylord, you speak of them as if they were nothing but animals..." Faldrin said in a concerned tone of voice, he felt unsettled, but he was the loyal servant of the man. His family had served them for generations.

"A most astute observation Faldrin! These thickheaded thralls require a noble hand to guide them, or they will become just like horses which you release into the wilderness, they've go feral and would then dare attack their betters. This is unacceptable ofcourse. So a firm but noble hand is needed. Ah! That reminds me..." The noble went into the carriage to fetch his horsewhip from one of his boxes, it was a something he enjoyed to use to make his point across or point at things he wouldn't dream to touch with his pristine white gloves.

"Mylord... do you not feel anything about all this?" Faldrin asked while he felt discomforted by his employers lack of compassion.

"Ofcourse I feel things. I am not some beast from the north or some blighted monster. Right now I feel for tea and some food. Well? Get to it. Chop chop. And wipe that frown off your face! I command you to put on a smile, I don't want to feel depressed this morning seeing my estate in the making in this current state." Ayel clapped his hands in a manner showing he was pressed for time.

Realms of Sun & Shadow

Ayel Raunefeldt

He considered himself an even tempered man, merciful and understanding. But no matter what he had felt the veins on his face beginning to expand and how his face got warmer and warmer, like a volcano about to burst.

How dared that filthy peasant girl talk to him without being given permission to do so! How dared she speak gibberish, or what he assumed was some clearly inferior Lunaris tongue. It had to be. Not only that but she was seemingly drunk, the worst kind of peasant, the ones which likely was awful working away for their betters.

She had then attempted to strike him, he whose done no wrongdoing in his promising life! He was filled with shock at the audacity displayed, and momentarily thought of hitting her with his sword sheathe. But the goddess had gotten equally as insulted by her and made her slip.

Ayel felt a powerful tingle from his belly and spine, he could feel the goddess gracing her most favoured child. Him.

He almost phased out of the scene itself as he thought about it being a sign for greatness to come. That all his hard struggles would yield profit.

The marquess had considered taking the opportunity to kick or grind the underside of his now slightly muddy boots against her face. But he quickly threw the idea out, for she might be even dirtier than the mud, possibly she could even send her filth all over his garments if he got closer.

It wasn't worth the risk. But he still wanted to make an example out of her. Because if one of the little peasants would get away with questioning their betters, then soon more would join it. It filled him with dread. 'Mindless mongrels.' He had thought and then looked at Coswain.

As much as Fiona had annoyed him, it was far less than what the castellan had done.

How could a mere simpleton, a guard, a greybearded stableboy dare say all those crude things to him. It was almost equally as disturbing to the marquess to learn the lady he had called a crone was married.

He frowned as he thought about it. 'Disgusting wrinkly old hagbag.' He gave her a glare then snarled at Coswain.

But before he could berate Coswain for his audacity and refusal to kneel, the prince and princess had decided to grace them.

'My friend! He must have been the one to arrange this crowd to greet me, I suppose a clueless blob of peasants will have to do. The gesture is meaningful, but the execution we need to discuss over tea. Maybe execute that guard while at it. Mmmm..' He thought and listened to the prince, is was after all someone important like himself speaking.

Perhaps the prince had arranged for him not to reach the stage so that he would be treated more like a honoured guest, and the prince was his herald? The very idea made him almost blush, that someone else thought about him almost as much as he did. It filled him with a sense of hope.

That's until the speech began. Ayel felt a surge of disappointment. This wasn't a welcoming, it was a farewell to that filthy barbarian queen of the north.

'Good riddance, that old peasant hugging harlot had it coming!' He softly chuckled as he was glad one of his mortal enemies were out of the picture. Maybe soon they would be able to colonize the barbarian land and educate the inbreds and put them to work.

Ayel felt a sense of pleasure when he thought of profit to be made.

Ayel's face grew shocked on hearing Amaya speak, her words were as foul as foul could be to him.

Beauty in winter? Share food and warmth? The marquess was taken aback as if he had gotten a bucket of ice thrown at him. She surely didn't mean sharing things for free? This was the survival of the richest, not some charity event for survival of the most stupid. He would have none of it!

Then came some words which did make him feel more at ease. There was no grave to send flowers to. Thus he could avoid having to bother to do it, not because he cared the slightest, but because of his friendship with the Aurelian royals.

Once the speeches ended, his eyes settled on Coswain. Ayel had already scoffed at what seemed to be some peasant way of appologizing from Fiona. How dared they oppose him in public! Someone might have seen or heard it!

Coswain however proved again to have the gall to try and command him! Him or all people! The very soaring Marquess of Aurelia, the chosen of the sun goddess. How dared he! Ayel felt how his teeth clenched together, his face grew wrinkly and his eyes narrowed. He tightened his hands into fists.

"Don't tell me what to do or do not do, you ill educated old fool. I am well prepared for anything this region can throw at me, I am not some incompetent barbarian. Resting in an inn, what do you take me for a pauper? Some stinking vagrant? I think not. Now I have more pressing matters to attend to, but I will take disciplinary action on you for this later. That includes all three of you." He pointed angrily and stormed off, using his swordsheath to poke and move people out of the way.

He hurried over towards where the carriages were.

"Faldrin! Where are you?!" He yelled out as his judgemental gaze wandered about. The man came running to him. "Mylord, we have successfully put up the walls, a door and the roof is being constructed at this very moment! We have put the horses into the local stable and the three carriages are lined up properly around the construction site." Faldrin explained.

"I certainly hope you didn't put my horses in with those barbarian breeds? These are pureblooded Aurelian ones. Their family line, much like my own go back generations. It's like a fine line of gold enrichment. So make sure none of those peasants creatures get near them I take it you didn't scratch my carriages? You and the workers will sleep in the newly constructed building as soon as the roof is up, you may bring your belongings in there for now. I will have to have my new home properly cleaned before I settle into it anyhow. I shall be sleeping in the middle-most carriage with all my pillows. You will be allowed to sleep only when it is midnight. I don't want my mansion and emporium to take all winter. Now go and get working. I have a self-biography to write, I will expect breakfast, lunch, teatime, dinner at the usual times. You may feed yourself from the box from the border regions, I don't like food which may be compromised by Lunarian ways. Or lunatic ways as I prefer it. Now good day Faldrin!" He opened and slammed the carriage door shut as the snow began to fall. Finally he had some time alone to do what he liked the best.

Working on himself.

@GambolMuse@PrinceAlexus

Realms of Sun & Shadow

Gadez Paladice

A gathering of so many blightborn was bound to draw attention, there would come a time when a haven would become something more.

He had pondered plenty on the source of the blight and what may have caused it, seeing how vastly different each blightborn were it once again made him reconsider the origin of it. There were no mortal powerful enough to unleash this amount of power upon the land, it was simply not possible. There was a limit in how much a body and mind could handle, and eventually people would grow old and die. While he did think plenty of the blight having its origin in nature, perhaps... he were right. But the way he thought about it had been wrong. Perhaps it was about human nature. Their greed and ambition. He knew it all too well.

He drew two new conclusions, both quite similar. Due to there being no known cure, and how the blight seemed to alter people physically. It meant it could be a forbidden kind of magic. The dark arts of necromancy was something which came naturally to mind. To make the dead walk anew.

But at this scale? The blue eyed bastard narrowed his eyes. It had to be a magical device able to contain magical energies and also emit them. Like how ripples would be formed on water after one would toss in a rock. So either there would be an undying ancient magic user of the dark arts, with a mastery over said art to an unfathomable degree. Or it were a collection of outcasts joining together. Much like dawnhaven itself. The oppressed and misunderstood often found comfort in each other. Of the two possibilities he considered the latter seemed the more plausible, but he hoped he was wrong. Because if somehow necromancy was at the root, then what if every blightborn would someday simply lose control of themselves? Becoming nothing but commandable puppets on strings.

A phantom army to conquer the world and make the darkness last far longer. If there were someone out there capable of magically subdue the wills of others... he would do his outmost to destroy that very being utterly by any means possible. Free will was to be protected, without it the world would be truly dead.

People like Kira and Leela, while being blightborn and dead by some peoples estimation still had wills of their own. Paladice didn't mind people to have different opinions nor did he hesitate when people would clash because of their desires. But to take away that which made life into life, the free will to chose ones own path. That's why he couldn't let such defilers to live. The grand board had plenty of dangerous pieces, yet not all the pieces would be what they appear to be.

He closed his eyes momentarily as he thought of the times to come.

'All you have planned will be for naught King Astaros, your son will die and so will you. The truth may be grim, but it doesn't mean it is wrong. Oh Flynn Astaros, do you even know the meaning of your name?

Names are important as we wander in the...

Goddess Paradise. Our world.

The golden star awaits you...'

Paladice listened to the speech from the stage. He already knew plenty of how the scene would play out. But were the prince speaking his own mind, or did he bear a mask? That would have to be further delved into away from the stage. Speaking of such, he couldn't stay for long as he made his way to intercept the royals and their guards on the way.

The wind was blowing from his side, causing his mantle to flicker in the wind as he walked out from behind a couple of trees, standing in the middle of the road ahead of the royals and their guards, leaves falling from the trees, like the very earth was weeping for the loss of the beloved mother.

The guards were at high alert, but even still that wouldn't stop a man such as him from seizing the moment. He spoke out, loud yet almost as if it were a melody. Making sure the entourage would hear him.

"Beautiful maize and ruddy star. A physical form may fade away, yet memories will never die. She'll always be a part of you princess, no matter what. All you need to do is look within. And you Prince Red Star... you are the spitting image of your father. Or rather how he used to look like. A long time ago. My sincerest condolences to you both…" He offered a butlerlike bow and began to move towards the side of the road to make way for the group. His hood and purple cape still flickering in the wind, blue and red combined into one. Like fire and ice. His blonde hair joining the wind, his piercing ghostly blue eyes landed on both the princess and the prince.

"A mother of many a child is most beloved, in the lands of ice and snow, where the land is harsh but the flowers still grow. See to it that you'll bloom magnificently, and save this world from the looming doom. In the twainlight zone." His blonde hair fell over his eyes as he changed his pose, a soft smile on his lips. He remained standing but aside of the pathway to let the entourage pass if they weren't in the talkative mood.

'Quite the family in the making. A pity you could not live to see it to the end. But the real world isn't as kind as the storybooks, not all be there at the end of the tale.' He allowed his mind to fall on the queen which had recently passed away, she truly had been beloved. Very much unlike the two kings who were bent on each others destruction. It was thanks to her that Dawnhaven would even exist. For this he was thankful, a final gift which would see the Aurelian king dead. He picked up a winter flower and then lit it on fire using his magic, then blew the remains to be carried to the wind.

'Rest well mother of the new dawn...'

@The Muse@c3p-0h

Realms of Sun & Shadow

Ayel Raunefeldt

"Watch your tone old crone!" Ayel hissed harshly to Persephone, how dared she refer to him as a peacock, even if a peacock was a pretty thing, he was clearly leagues above it.

"So you are indeed a guard. A mere castellan which has no authority outside the castle. Even a royal guard is still a guard."

His eyes narrowed at Coswain.

"Sir? I am the Marquess of Aurelias border region closest to Dawnhaven, I am Marquess Ayel Raunefeldt, son to the late Duke Raunefeldt. My belt buttons up over several other duties far exceeding you, Castellan Coswain. I am the grandmaster of the Aurelius emporium, a famous high quality merchant enterprise. I am also a childhood friend to his royal highness Crown Prince Flynn Astaros. Your brutish ruffians will not touch my carriages, or I'll have you and everyone starve this coming winter. I am in charge of the supplies coming to Dawnhaven from Aurelia. And if you are so concerned with fire, arrest that walking fire hazard over there." Ayel pointed accusingly and in a very irritated way towards Ashe in the distance.

"Or this drunkard serf which has threatened to do physical harm to me! Do your work guard, or do you turn a blind eye? Some guard you are! If your lack of manners were not enough to begin with! Now you greybearded rapscallion, you will get on your knees and profoundingly appologize for your misconduct! Or I swear by Aelios, and his royal highness Crown Prince Astaros, I shall have you publically whipped for your breach of protocol. Kneel and beg for forgiveness and it shall be given, I am a merciful man." Ayel said in a smug, condescending and manner which oozed of superiority. He knew that his wealth and title was making him practically untouchable. Unless someone would outrank him. The very idea made him feel sick. This bearded older man was everything wrong in the world, he was one of those reasons young and perfect rulers would be murdered by a group of angry peasants. But then again, what could he expect from some brutish northern barbarians.

Ayel held out his sheathed sword, using it as a thing to point with.

"On your knees!" He hissed, clearly agitated. "You don't wish to make more of a scene and make things worse for your princess do you? My prince will not allow you to publically upset this arrangement. Not to mention his Royal majesty the king of Aurelia and all the areas which encompass it!" The sadistic marquess pointed to the muddy ground, beckoning for Coswain to kneel before him and appologize.

@GambolMuse@PrinceAlexus

Realms of Sun & Shadow

Ayel Raunefeldt

"Everyone calm down, you will all get a chance to look at me once I have gotten the direction to the stage!" Ayel spoke up in a loud tone as he used his sheathed sword to poke and try move people to make a path for him, he couldn't afford having any of these seemingly poor people come in contact with his radiant garments. "Out of the way mushroom. Relegate yourself to the back where peasants ought to be. You might infect those with far nobler blood with your pox. Go on, shoo, get out of the way. I have a speech to make. You there, wench get this abomination out of the way." The aurelian man took up his handmirror, the sheer panic that had filled him being in close proximity to blightborn and people of lower social rank was unnerving. The sooner he could get up on the stage which they surely had erected for him against the awful looking building. At least that was what he regarded it as. How could his coming mansion and emporium be neighbours to it? He felt a lump in his noble belly and throat as he dreaded the awful view that he would see every morning, when Faldrin would pull open the curtains to reveal this blight of a building. No this would absolutely not do.

A complaint would have to be made to the prince. Since his father was a reasonable man, according to Ayel, no doubt would it be a breeze to put in some alterations and extra rules.

Such as having none of those blightborn monstrocities be outside after 8pm. It didn't matter that the sun was temporary concealed, it was more about making a statement, to show all peasants who were in charge.

He soon felt another feeling, one of disgust as he realized the building was seemingly an inn or something like that. He didn't want to listen to loud drunk peasants, they should be like peasants, seen but not heard. But from a safe distance.

But the suggestion list he would make for the prince would have to wait, for now he had to settle the problem of there being alot of people blocking HIS path, to HIS stage.

The marquess allowed himself an eyeroll as he moved his bothersome lock from his face.

"You there, old guard! Come here and pave a way, I do not have all the time in the world you know? I am rich you know." He yelled over towards an older looking man in the distance. That older man being Adonis. He didn't recall the man, but then again... all guardsmen types looked the same, barbaric and brutish. Unlike his very own graceful glamour. But he couldn't help to feel a tinge of pleasure amidst it all, for without people, ugly poor people, they wouldn't be able to see the vast difference between them and himself. How he peaked above them like a mountain overlooking a swamp.

The very comparison made him feel a surge in mood, despite having to wait while standing. How he hated that. He wasn't some lowborn guardsman with nothing better to do than guard a door. His noble body was made for sitting down, preferably on a thronelike seat, and high up to have an elevated view.

Then he felt it. The smell of... farmers. How he hated that smell. It reminded him of them having the audacity to glare at him when he would change the deal so he could earn more by selling their crops, while making sure they would be the eternal workers.

The aurelian man took out a finely brocaded silk napkin and brought it to his nose and mouth, wrinkling his nose and furrowing his eyebrows momentarily. His eyes settling on Fiona, he believed he had found the source of his ills.

It was at that moment he realized he had let these ill-minded people to affect him, he recoiled mentally in horror as he thought that his facial expression may contribute to wrinkles later down his noble life. This he would NOT allow.

@GambolMuse@PrinceAlexus@Qia@Lu

Realms of Sun & Shadow

Ayel Raunefeldt

Three carriages were going down the road towards Dawnhaven, their decoration was a stark contrast to the land around them. Packed to the brim with various items and furniture and building materials, the most fine of the carriages were the third one. The carriage much like the other ones was giving ample protection from the weather, at least if you were lucky enough to sit inside of it.

A small hatch opened up in the third and most grand of the carriages.

"Will you please drive more smoothly?! I am trying to concentrate here! Are we there yet?" An upset voice would be heard to the two men sitting at the elevated position at the outside of the carriage, the driver almost completely stopped the carriage at the volume of the voice, the other man next to him quickly leaned down to the hatch.

"My lord! Appologies! The road is very uneven here! We are approaching Dawnhaven in just abit!" The man replied in a reassuring and swift manner, he knew better than to make his employer wait. Knowing the man was someone of special temperament.

"You must take great care of my carriage, it is unlike the peasants irreplacable. There's a limited amount of these. And I happen to own the first and more foremost one. I will not have my carriage to topple over because of some peasant made road." The man inside of the carriage slammed the hatch shut even as the man outside was about to reply.

Ayel as the man was named calmly moved a lock of his hair away from his face. He has such troublesome hair. The man moved the curtains out of the way of the carriage window, sadly realizing that indeed. The sun had not the decency to return just yet. The man rolled his eyes and then lit the lantern inside of the carriage, before taking hold of his handmirror and looking into it. "Such a little bother you are." He said as he moved the lock out of his face and neatly combed it into place. He allowed an arrogant raise of his eyebrow upon seeing Dawnhaven out of his window. This was the place which he was going to make his great return to his rightful place. His father had completely screwed over his chances for dukehood by unceremoniously dying while falling off a horse.

It irked him. His father had taken the liberty to off himself while Ayel had been away from home, and then the title had befallen to someone else. It should have been his! He was the most intelligent, the most qualified, the most rich and flavoursome of all. This was an outrage. The man took a few moments to collect himself, recalling that expressing emotions would contribute to getting wrinkles. He couldn't afford that. Well technically he could, but he simply wouldn't allow his face to be compromised. He was intending on winning the contest of the most graceful Aurelian of the year.

Ayel reached for the small hatch again, yelling out to the two sitting outside.

"Faldrin!" His voice was clear and loud.

"Y-yes! Mylord!" The man straightened in his seat and the driver immediately stopped the carriage in about as much panic as he did in reaction.

Ayel almost got bumped into the expensive wooden decor. "You dimwit! Not that hard!" He yelled out in a reprimanding manner before adjusting himself in his seat and assuming a more smooth tone of voice. "Faldrin, it is truly beautiful." He began to say almost with a lack of breath, pulling his hair behind his one ear.

"It sure is mylord! Dawnhaven is quite the impressive place I must sa-" Faldrin started but got swiftly interupted.

"I am not talking about the mundane tax evasive village! I am talking about myself. Am I not beautiful? Do I not still contain the grace I held in my youth? Am I not shining as much as I did in the Sunfire Citadel?" Ayel said in an offended manner, his one eyebrow rising in an accusing manner. Faldrin knew this as a dangerous thing.

"Erm.. ofcourse mylord. You have not changed at all Marquess Raunefeldt!" Faldrin quickly explained to get the matter out of the way before his employer would have one of his special fits.

"Aha ha ha! Yes! I haven't changed at all have I? I still retain the same aura of majesty and allure. I could kiss myself, but what would all my admirers in the citadel think if I told them about having found true love?" He smiled to his own reflection in the mirror, using his tongue to polish his perfect teeth and making some smacking emotes with his lips, which had been previously given some high quality lotion.

"They would be devastated mylord…" Faldrin said as he felt the sweat starting to slide from his forehead, he had dodged getting another reprimand for now. This was surely a good sign.

"Well, since we have stopped I shall take the opportunity to- Wait is that a crowd out there? Ahh! I knew it! They've already heard of my arrival and have gathered to greet me. For being lousy and somewhat useless, these peasants have some employers who have class. Bring me my hat, the one with the big pink feather and the silk band with the inscription. I want to give them my best impression. Best impression? Faldrin, what is my best truly? I cannot quite decide. When you look at something that is perfect in all it's forms it gets so difficult. You have been trained for generations serving my family, you should be able to tell." The marquess raised his eyebrow of accusation, his eyes scanning Faldrin with judgement through the small hatch.

"You are all encompassing perfection mylord! There is none as whole as you!" Faldrin said and he nervously scratched his cheek.

"Hmph. Don't yell at me. I am not deaf. My hearing is very keen, you must learn to speak in a more soothing tone!" Ayel reprimanded and then looked at the carriage door. "Well? Get to it! My time is precious." He said in a slightly annoyed manner while Faldrin jumped down and hurriedly went to the door, opening it. Ayel looked down at the muddy and snowy road with disapproval, disgust starting to fill his face. "What are you waiting for? Get something for me to walk on! Get the stool." Ayel reached for his fan, which typically was carried with him by his belt, using it to wave his face despite there not being any heat to wave away.

"My.. lord.. the stool. I forgot to load it into the carriage, there wasn't enough space with all of the construction materials." Faldrin said in an appologetic tone and lowered his head and shoulders.

"Not enough space you say? Are you claiming it is somehow my fault Faldrin?" The marquess' face grew colder, his finely made boot placing itself on Faldrin's shoulder, pressing him down as he stood just below the carriage. "No mylord!" Faldrin replied and hunched down abit.

"Don't raise your voice at me! We shall have to improvise. You will take it's place. Now get on all fours." Ayel raised his head and nose towards the dark sky, he took a deep inhale and tried to make himself look as majestic as possible, as if the goddess Aelios herself were descending from the skies to the mortals.

Faldrin complied and stood on all fours in the muddy road as his employer used him as a stepping stone to get down.

"That'll do. Now go and get changed Faldrin, I will not permit any of my servants to be looking like that." He waved dismissively with his hand. "I will be waiting near the brainless blob. While you are at it, order the others to start working at my new temporary home and emporium. I expect it up and functioning today. Perhaps some noble will enlighten me of who is in charge of my welcoming committee or direct me to the prince? Don't worry your little head about me Faldrin, I am more than capable in all fields. Except the actual fields. That is for farmers." He laughed softly with a hand before his mouth.

Realms of Sun & Shadow

Gadez Paladice

"Cats gold is what one calls fake gold. At a surface level they may look the same, but upon closer inspection only one shimmers as gold truly would. " Paladice explained calmly and in a matter of fact tone of voice. Taking abit of a breath and allowing himself a soft chuckle before contiuing.

"Not all masks are made of iron nor worn at masquerades. Some are able to don the mask of an honest smiling man, covering their true face beneath. But indeed you may be correct about the prince of gold. He may be genuine indeed." The blonde said, but in a reserved manner, there was alot more to it than that. But he didn't feel the desire to have Leela know that just yet. After all the game had barely begun.

"Dawnhaven however is not a creation of Flynn's making, neither is the union of the both heirs. The forementioned salvation. Two snakes are attempting to constrict this world, sinking their fangs in and applying their poison. I have a prophesy of my own. Here allow me to demonstrate..." The man lowered his voice, walking closer to Leela again, his eyes shimmering as a nearby torchlight reflected in it.

"The golden one shall lop off the head of the fire snake, karma shall burn the sinful creator. For the sake of those whose lives he oppressed and destroyed. Catalyst of the eclipse, let you be eclipsed in turn. Unmade by your rebellious sword." He snickered.

"But who would believe such a prophecy? Especially from one so vexing as myself, as you have so eloquently put it. A handy one aren't you? That bodes well for yourself and this place, my approach may be bold, but reckless it is not. As for having a silver tongue? I would rather boldly claim it is golden. Even if such more commonly be tied to those who prefer silence. Springs as in hot springs hm? Aurelia had plenty of those. Pleasant. Yet like drinks served at the inns, or the wonderous songs of a bard, such things can distance you from your surroundings and keep you from taking action. Think of all the people whose drowned their worries in drinks, and the few which instead decided to do something to change it. Rather than living under an illusion... yet it is a choice one has to make. As for mysteries and challenges, I neither seek them nor do I flee them. I however do deal with them if they happen upon my way. Rest assured you do not bore me, then again... very few actually does." He blew some air out of his mouth, the hot air mixing with the cool of the morning made it go up into mist.

"A sundial in our current situation would be very ironic. Afraid I am not the kind of man to give chase after cats though, I find it more that cats due to their curiousity find it in their liking to follow me. Though they've ought to be careful lest they'll be the ones going into the troth and get drenched." He snickered and observed the inn in the distance. "Ahh, the lack of alcohol will be good for them. Let them see things more clearly. No need for any regrets neither, for had you spent more time in said spring, we would not have met. You would have been far less vexed. But it is about time that I go and mingle with the rest, enjoy your day, Leela the beholder. We shall no doubt meet again." He gave a butlerlike bow towards Sya, there was a shimmer in his eye again and a smirk on his lips. He had enjoyed the conversation, as if he had feasted upon it. He joined her on following her song

"But the gold slipped out of his hand and fled the land! With philosopher desires set into stone, the man realized too late that he was alone. His maiden fled, upon an icy sled. True desire lost, blue fire frost, his desire and greed, to spread his evil seed. Plunged into the nearest gap, to make his trap…. golden prophecy, that defiling plea, he will meet his end at the fire land. The hand of halcyon define time to come, the gilded line will be realigned. The gleaming glee, shall soon be set free…" He sung softly until his voice couldn't be heard by Sya anymore as he walked into the rest of the people gathered, chuckling as he did, with his arms held out slightly as if he was a conductor.

@PrinceAlexus

Realms of Sun & Shadow

Gadez Paladice

"A tax man is merely the tool, one cannot blame the tool for the wielder's use of it. Much of that which is gathered goes to the ones sitting upon their golden thrones, growing fat and fetid, yet always craving for more. Greed lies at the core yet again. Some of the gathered coin may go back to the people, yet whose gonna hear a whisper when there is a full blown parade of pompous puppets, showing off their latest material gains? But it would not suprise one such as myself, if a tax man would attempt to squeeze someone of abit more gold." He wasn't fond of the overdressed manner in which the nobles of Aurelia carried themselves, flaunting their material wealth about as if it was their banner and only thing that mattered. Perhaps he would have been like them, had fate not dealt him the cards which he still held unto. But he was appreciative to it, to not be so easily led into that pathway of endless greed and pretentious goodwill. Nothing was as sickening to him, as when the nobles, only noble by title, would pretend to care for the less fortunate to make themselves feel more elevated.

Yet was he immune to feeling good about helping the less blessed? No. No one truly was.

His mind wandered to the golden child, Flynn Astaros. Would he traverse the same wretched path of his father or would he deviate? No matter what, that young man would have quite the tough choices before him. Even more so when the the terrible truth would dawn upon him. Paladice couldn't barely contain his amusement, for he had waited for all these years for this moment in time.

But could truly the son be held responsible for the sins of the father? He knew the answer to that question already. No. He could not be held accountable. To have been forged into whatever the Aurelian king desired, a fate some might have dreamed of, not knowing what it would entail.

He had pondered on that very idea himself, would he had been any different had he'd been in that place? Most likely not. What would matter in the end would be if he would proceed on the path made for him, or carve his own. If chosing the former, he would share the king's fate. To free the world of all the chains which bind it and smash it all into dust, there was little room for hesitation. Paladice knew that he had to do it, for the sakes of all those whose already died, and for those which would come to die when the great clash would begin. He'd drive that blade of his into the king's wretched heart and look into his eyes, letting him know it was a result of his own sins. Would Flynn be alive at that point? Would he stand in the way? That part of the great story was yet to be written, even then the warrior-monk couldn't help but long for the moment. After all. What other reason did he have to even exist?

He was going to kill that man.

But patience was required. He had waited all these years, a little more wouldn't hurt. He proceeded to reply further to Sya.

"Tight purse, tight lips aswell then? Hah… good try. But can you truly tell a fake from the real thing? Can you discern what is real gold, and what is cat's gold? Both may look similar, yet only one glimmers. Were I to dress up as the prince and don a mask, leaping up on that stage over yonder. Would you be able to tell the difference, as to whom is firstborn of the sunking?" He chuckled in an amused way at that as he made a dramatic bow, followed by a slight spin, causing his blonde hair to swirl before settling down, it momentarily covered his eyes until he moved it back using his gloved hand.

"Much like gold. I certainly hope Prince Flynn is the real thing. Golden and shimmering. Many people have through the times sought a way to create gold itself, like some particular alchemists. Ever heard of their search of the stone of the philosopher? It is a legend, that there's some hidden formula out there to combine minerals to create… gold. Quite the curious subject wouldn't you say? However… would that be what people truly desire? And would they be able to tell gold made by such a manner apart from the rest? It isn't quite like cat's gold then." A soft upturn formed on his lips as his eyes wandered to the stage, a nearby torch causing his ghostly blue eyes to shimmer.

"As for gills? My my… quite the tongue you have there girl. Afraid there's no kissing booth here, nor any willing participants though to take advantage of it. But indeed I do like my pauses for a little drama, blame it on the circus for their uncanny ability to spellbind a crowd." He chuckled in a soft and amused manner before continuing on the subject that Sya had chosen.

"Tentacles? Claws? Tails? My my you are certainly a lively one, I suspect you would have made the blightborn in the kissing booth blush themselves to the afterlife. Hnn hnn. Perhaps tentacles would look good on you though. Imagine how many you could serve at the inn at the same time, providing ofcourse one can control all extra appendages. If like octopus ones? Quite the sucky grip, would never drop a glass nor lose at arm-wrestling. I prefer to be more focused myself. Hence my more limited amount in number of appendages. But don't let that deceive you, I am well armed. Hands included." He said in an even more amused manner. He hated to admit it, but the blightborn was quite the entertaining one. If not even abit unstable. Then again. He wasn't one to speak ill of the dead too much.

"So others get dirty by knowing what is in that mysterious box of yours? Either it is some less than favorable depictions of well known individuals or it's filled with mud. Just two of my guesses however. One could ponder the contents forever. Perhaps there's something in the box, or perhaps there never was? Who could truly tell when it is closed? I dare you to tell. Mistress Leela." He stepped forwards slightly and set his blue eyes at her, as if challenging her.

"While some thing are indeed part of ones past, one ought to not forget them. No matter if they are good or ill, for each things form whom you are. No matter how much one may desire a fresh start, to begin anew. To simply leave all things behind? The past tend to eventually make itself known again. There's someone out there who I intend to teach this very lesson to. That the past will catch up with you. Better to deal with it head-on with no regrets." He stepped back again, leaving Sya with more personal space.

"A kitty?" His eyes slowly wandered about for a cat, hoping he could pick it up. "A bell tower? That would be... noisy. Guh. As for the prince being just in time to be too late, that is very much a habit of those of such a standing. They grace us with their time, not the other way around." He said softly but in a matter of fact voice.

@PrinceAlexus

Realms of Sun & Shadow

Gadez Paladice

"You are armed? Yes, I can see you have two hands attached to them too. You are no fool, neither are you dull. Dead? Well that's up to debate." Paladice said in a smug manner, knowing that wasn't quite what she meant. But having been given such an opportunity, he felt the need to act upon it.

"You are a curious one, mistress Leela, you need coin, yet when it is offered you decline. There's quite some pride in you. As for being a blacksmith's daughter? Well, then you are a scholar of a more material kind, providing you learnt your father's craft. As much as I despise to say it, I think I picked up a few traits of my own creator too." As much as it displeased the gardener, there was little use in denying the truth. No matter how grim it would be. As an advocate of the truth, he wouldn't lie unless left with no other option. Even then a lie upon his tongue would feel ill. Like slowly becoming that thing which he truly hated with all of his being. He couldn't allow that to happen, nor fall into the same pathway. Greed was something natural, yet it was also something which Paladice couldn't adhere to. Those who grasped for treasure would often go down with it. He couldn't allow himself to share the fate of those fools.

"Ahh as for the kissing booth, it was not I who was involved with that mind you. But some unfortunate seeker of love. Passion. Lust. Or whichever label one prefer. The blight is a creation of mankind. It is like any other poison, it attacks mind and body alike. The end results and the effectivity may differ, yet it is at the core... a kind of poison. But while it is indeed a danger, so to are more subtle forms. A single man or woman, with a chosen set of words can sway the world if chosen well and the poison is sweet enough for others to devour it. It's how commoners rise to become kings typically. Or remain as such." He held up one of his hands as if feeling for raindrops, then he tightened it into a fist.

"And we'll do what we have to do, in order to continue onwards. Ahh and you've done your share of not nice things? Pray tell, did you switch out the holy book of Seluna with that of Aelios for a priestess? Such a thing would have been quite lively I'm sure. Or perhaps you decided to wash a cat when it profusely declined such a thing? Well whichever it may be, I am not one to pry. Yet a secret is a heavy burden to carry alone, eventually it'll eat you up from the inside lest you share it with someone." He smiled softly, and he readied himself to walk away from their conversation, as the more he had spoken to Sya, or mistress Leela as he knew her as. He had begun to understand just what kind of person she were. A dangerous one, but in a different kind than Kira. This one-eyed perceiver was the kind of person who would make up their mind in the present, never looking too far ahead or back. She could one moment shelter someone, and the next moment toss them out. He was certain of this. She was a much more unpredictable person, prideful, confrontational, wary and at the same time displaying signs of opening her core to strangers.

He was certain she would no doubt play a part in the great play, but what role? Now that was yet to be decided. She could end up being an ally, or a foe. It all would depend on if she would be willing to aid others commit regicide. The entire board had to be shattered, and all the pieces would have to reveal who they truly are for the game to end.

'When will you reveal yourself, golden child? Let me gaze upon the visage of the golden bird, handfed by -that man- since the start. Let's see if your wings will take you away from the future that has been decided by others for you, or if you will simply go with the flow… and accept it. Though some things are truly hard to accept, one may deny it with all ones being. But unfortunately… the truth is sometimes not as kind as the song which the skalds echo. One part of your destiny is to walk beside them, equally cursed and blessed. It is tragic, but it is required. You must die and be reborn as one of the blightborn, only then will the southern kingdom be unable to assemble their army. For whom would do battle against the shining son of the sunking? Perhaps such an affliction would even create acceptance. Yet the princess must not share your fate, for the one upon the icy throne must not be given a reason to move forth with the fear of his people aiding him. No king will win this game. But a prince just might. Even one whose unpure.' His eyes gazed over to the stage with determination as he thought to himself, he would make sure that no matter what neither kingdom would win. The stage had been set, rigged and the chessboard was ready and his role had been decided for ages.

'Watch goddesses, if you even exist. Behold as I play this world like a harp, until all strings are broken. And all illusions fade away and the prophecy comes full circle. Dance puppets drawn in by death...'

@PrinceAlexus

Realms of Sun & Shadow

Gadez Paladice

"The eye of the beholder. Where truth lies. Though perhaps you've ought to consider it as the beholden instead, as those whom stay there are no doubt filled with gratitude. Among other things. It would however be most kind if you were to check the availability of your establishment." Paladice said in a soft, yet playful tone of voice.

"You desire to be accepted by the people, yet ask for no trouble to come to your door? There will be a day when trouble come knocking either way though. Will you then be willing to aid those being hunted?" He asked as he drummed his cheek with one of his fingers, before stepping abit closer to lower his voice.

"If so build a haven underneath the haven, a temporary shelter with a tunnel that leads outside of here. Let none but your own kind know of it's existance in it's creation, for there are those within these walls which seeks for Dawnhaven to cease and your ilk to be hunted down and destroyed. Every last one. Gaze no further than to the ruler upon the frozen throne, for fear drives his herd. Would you allow your children out to play on your fields, when you know where is a den of wolves near? That is how these people view your ilk. And they would never understand what you see and feel, because people can only truly understand what they've experienced. An attack upon this place is unavoidable. Look upon the guards here already, no doubt they can feel the tension in the air. Dawnhaven is however a haven, a beacon for your kind. But it is also a well laid trap, a trigger for calamity to come." There was no doubt in his voice, his words chosen as if they had been forcefully fed to him from birth. Like it was the most natural thing to say. The blonde reached for a pouch by his belt, taking out ten coins and holding it out towards Sya.

"Yet like you say, people would like to start anew if given the chance. Providing they could. The labyrinth of life is a curious thing, where all traverse seeking that precious treasure in the end. Then there are those whom walk it, even though they know there's nothing for them in the end. Yet one cannot help but hope..." He paused and changed to a more jesting tone.

"I hear in some places they place coins upon the eyes of the dead for their travel into the afterlife, but in this case… that would be too many a coin. No offense ofcourse. But they are not for that, but a contribution towards making sure that the puppeteer beyond these walls will not have his wicked dream come true." He smirked in an almost sinister manner as his mind settled on someone he didn't like one bit. Nothing would even come close to comparing the satisfaction of ruining the master plan with one of his own. His mind settled on the chessboard in the distance. Fate had dealt him a bad hand, but all the more reason to backhand destiny across the face.

"Err… all the parts you need -right now-? Well, that is certainly making me much more at ease. As for how you are now stuck in a conversation with me? Must be my... undying charisma. A particular gardener secret." He chuckled softly, clearly showing he was jesting. Then he gave a slightly thoughtful expression to her question about the blightborn.

"I have seen many blightborn indeed, fought and slain some too. Albeit not within this place. My former associates were attacked by some feral ones and then sometime after my former associates returned from being dead into... dead and walking. Then dead again. Well, no need to feel discouraged by every little occurance I guess? I also knew one which was part of the circus travelling troupe, well that is before the unfortunate incident with the kissing booth. But that is a tale for another time. As for the current day? I've seen a fiery eyed lady here, quite sharp too. And then there's ofcourse that wandering torch over there and the girl with the serious fungus infection. No doubt there is... mushroom for improvement. Ahh.. and there's a guardsman with some afflict- No. He's just old. Then there's yourself ofcourse. The sightborn. I think that's all... -right now-." He added in a mixture of what could be seen as overly dramatic, threatrical and amused manner.

@PrinceAlexus