Dezuel

Realms of Sun & Shadow

Gadez Paladice

It had worked, his subtle movements had caught the gaze of the perceptive Kira. He wasn't certain if she would recognize the symbol that he bore, and even if she did, would she had been able to figure out just what it meant? The woman came across to him as collected, perceptive and reserved. There was something about he which made him regard her as a dangerous adversary, or a potent ally. Depending on which side one would happen to stand upon.

Gadez closed his eyes and smiled on hearing Kira's words, they did amuse him alot. He wouldn't ofcourse deny or confirm, that would take away all intrigue.

"You do look like you could use abit of...heating up. Your eyes look abit tense too, perhaps they aren't the only things that are tense. Afraid I will not be joining you for a talk nor offer any warm cuddles in the hotspring... as I am all out of cuddles…" He chuckled. "Ahh, not quite. But... I do have some matters I must attend to. Tia, would you be so kind as to join the blaze-eyed beauty? Company is always good. Like yours." Kira did strike him as a curious type, but a very reserved one at that. Very different from those he had known, which often asked when they wished to know something. It made him remember one of the old monks at the monestary… so long ago.

Gadez threw a glance over his shoulder as he opened the door out of the temple, throwing one last glance over his shoulder towards Tia. His mouth moving as he made out some words, not spoken but they were clearly words. Then he smiled, tilting his head to the side and closing his eyes. Before striding out of the temple, the door closing behind him. The blizzard was over and the sound of people in the distance reached him, they were out resuming their daily lives, the scent of food traversing through the air. Yet Gadez mind was elsewhere. In another place. Another time...

Flashback episode

"Gadez, why are you still being so defiant and insolent towards the goddess? It is rare to possess such a gift as yours with her fire. Which again makes me wonder why are you defying her in her very temple and the holy halls?" The older monk asked, his long white beard being carefully stroked before his hands would be neatly clasped behind his back.

"Abit of fire can keep you warm, too much and you'll burn. Like water bear a ship it can also sink it. If Aelios and Seluna exist, then they are both lifegivers and deathbringers. Neither greater than the other. But both are flawed, two sides of the same coin, but unable to accept oneanother. Can the world truly unite when the goddesses they praise with all their being stand for dividing and distinguishing?" Gadez asked not expecting an answer that would be satisfactory, it was more like a challenge to the older man. As if testing his faith. Prodding it for gaps.

"The mysteries of the world and what lies beyond it, and the actions of the goddesses are beyond any mortals understanding. We do not have to understand everything, just keep faith in the things greater than our own mortal shells." The elder monk replied, his hands moving in front of him now, a single finger held out as if warning the younger man.

"I chose to believe in humankind, we who walk along the edge of the coin. We who have a choice, to define our destiny, despite the goddesses attempts to lure us to either side of the coin. Only by treading upon the edge can you see both sides and mend this divided world. That the goddesses have failed in doing." The young blonde man said almost in a mocking way, making his stance known, his defiance obvious.

"This is heresy! Sacrilege! You are putting yourself on the same level as Aelios herself! A being beyond comphrehension! How dare you utter these profanities! Do you see yourself as a god?" The elder monk said in a flustered manner, his reprimand flying through the air, echoing along the hallways to the old library.

"There are those who gaze into the light, and there are those which covet the dark. Both are blinded by the belief one is greater than the other. Much like each goddess, providing they do exist, they each praise their own nectar, and label the other one as poison. I am human, as long as I have the free will to chose my path, I will reject theirs to my dying breath. Because I believe that fate is not tied solely to the whims of a goddess, but that each living thing has the wish and potential to forge their own future. No matter what design another may have put upon it!" He raised his voice at the older man, his eyes shimmering as if it had momentarily gotten the better of him. The blue-eyed man soon assumed a more relaxed position again and softened his voice.

"You are a such an audacious child, have you none who you look up to as someone greater than yourself? Like a parent? Your father perhaps? What is it that drives you Gadez? Some self gratification? You want to be some kind of famous hero or known as the most insufferable affront to the clergy imaginable?" The bearded old monk asked, clear agitation in his voice, but he did his best to remain calm despite how their conversation had made everyone else vacate the library.

"To a child, a parent is a god. But in that regard my god is wicked and severely flawed. He killed my mother you see. He ripped her heart out. I guess love is blind indeed. A more dangerous poison than love... there is not." Gadez said in a smug manner, he truly couldn't admit he had ever felt love for anything, save possibly his mother.

"Do you not love anything in this world? Why are you this way? What is it that you hate so much? I have seen you in the sparring, you fight with a ferocity of a bear mother defending her cubs. But from where comes this strength? Where is your motivation coming from?" The old man said in a mixture of curiousity and confusion, it was obvious that this younger man was indeed testing his patience with his antics.

"A long time ago a sin was made in secrecy, a seed was sowed and deemed as evil and had to burn. Yet it eluded to be scorched, it festered and became a tree. A tree which blossoms in winter as in summer, the leaves falling from it's hidden crown tells many things. It shall bear fruit in time. Whereof it is poison or something sweet? Depends on who you'd ask." Gadez had smirked, taking enjoyment in being as cryptic as possible to further test the older man's temper.

"You have a penchant for being cryptic. Try be more plain. Like an open field." The older man rubbed his forehead, pinched the bridge of his nose and then sighed.

"Then how about revenge? For all those whose lives has been destroyed?" Gadez said in a flat tone, there was no movement of his body, no emotion to the sentence. Unlike all his other lines spoken, this one had been dead serious.

"On whom? The goddesses? Aurelia? The world?" The elder man asked with a grunt, crossing his arms in front of his chest, before adjusting his beard.

"You wouldn't like my answer..." Gadez had merely smiled, slamming the book he was reading shut.

[Many years later]

Theme

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_VQ8clO4o8M

"Gadez... I am dying..." The now far older man was bedridden for a long time, age having finally caught up with him. While his body was giving in, his mind remained the same.

"I know." The blonde had said and nodded his head, leaning down and placing a hand on the elderly man's shoulder.

"Tell... tell me... what... Who are you..? Really?" The venerable man wanted to know. That much was plain. Like so many others before having wanted to know if the goddess was real or not, this man sought an answer to a question he had carried for a long time.

"..." The blue-eyed blonde said nothing, his eyes shimmering from the nearby candle-lights.

"Dead men tell no tales... Indulge a dying man .. before he goes to meet his goddess." The man sighed and rested his head further, he was growing weaker by the moment. But he wanted to know.

The blonde nodded then leaned in and whispered into the dying man's ear. The elder monks eyes widened and flickered, before looking pained. It was something he had never imagined. Something he never could have considered.

"What? I-impossible... It cannot- How? No.. no...? Goddess forgive me... why didn't I see the signs... they were all there.. in the.. stars..." The elderly monk began to cough, his eyes growing teary and his vision becoming more blurry.

"I... I see why... why you wear that smiling mask now… like the duality of comedy and tragedy. You are both… and you have the right... I hate to admit it... but you have the right... you… bastard..." The old monk said in a gasping manner a faint smirk on his lips before his arm went limp and fell down on the bed.

"You are right, I am that one bastard whose going to quench the biggest star. Rest well now in the embrace of the goddess you believed in. For I will not. I enjoyed our talks, I shall miss them dearly. Til all become one anew, rest well old man." Gadez had placed his hand on the elder man's face, closing his eyes as he had passed on. The blonde allowed a soft smile to decorate his lips as he stood back up and turned around. There had always only been one path to go. Forwards.

Alone. Always alone.

The sounds of his footsteps echoing down the long stone pathway of the monastery until he reached a balcony overlooking the valley and the starry night sky.

'This land deserves to be set free. I shall smite the star which scorch it. Sit atop your gilded throne whilst you can you wretched sun king, feed your daughters, sons and your new golden child with all of your lies. All the harder will the fall be...' The blonde had grabbed the railing of the stone balcony, slumping slightly against it, his grip upon it loosening slightly. His mouth giving way to a wide grin. His eye shimmered as the light of a star reflected back into it.

The memory faded and Gadez found himself approaching the local carpenter, buying some planks of wood from him along with a small hammer and some nails. That would come to great use with his newly 'borrowed' tree-cutting knife that he had aqquired from the temple. Well it was surely not a ritualistic or ceremonial dagger. Was it? Well, it had a new purpose now. As he went to another which was selling some crude looking pieces of linen, Gadez bought those and asked the woman to help him sew them together slightly. There was some noise in the distance what sounded like a confrontation as some loud would-be-noble tried to wade across the gathering of people on some beast of burden.

"Guh." He said aloud as he carried his newly aqquired things towards the inn, hoping to run into Mistress Leela. And sure enough further ahead he spotted her. And he spotted more than he had bargained for. She had changed her form? Evolved? That was a first for a blightborn.

"Well, I knew you were expanding the inn, I didn't know you were expanding yourself too, Leela. I suppose you have snaked off your boots? By the way. Fine coat. I know snakes coat their fangs in venom, but this might be abit too much." He smugly said as he inspected Sya's new rear. "Just don't ask to sit on my shoulders, that would be even too much for one such as I. Just how far does that thing go?" He chuckled and then let his eyes wander over Katherine, then to Elara, then to Dyna and Ranni. Before finally landing on Daphne and Ayel which were furthest away.

The blonde gave a butlerlike bow to Katherine and Elara, then gave a glance to Dyna, Ranni, Daphne and the nobleman which had his back already turned. His blonde hair fell over his eyes as he smiled. "Gadez Paladice, gardener at your service. Do not mind the wood. It's for a fine display. Speaking of which, Leela. May I set something up within your inn? Ever seen a puppet theatre? I think the young ones would appreciate that in this harsh place. A little storytelling to temporary put aside the hammering… yelling.. and the people making their insides go outsides… because.. that's what alcohol does to people." He said in a grumpy tone as his eyes wandered to someone in the distance.

Realms of Sun & Shadow

Ayel Raunefeldt

The nobleman raised his equally noble eyebrow as his gaze fell on Elara as she spoke to him, but at the very least she did address him by title. It would have made him feel giddy, but that was before the woman had the gall to try reprimand him. Him? Whose done no harm!

Belittle the commoners? What kind of petty man did she take him for? Ayel gave Elara a deep glare, he would try his best to remember this one. How dared she think that peasant labor and some false impression of respecting these… useless commoners was more important than his birthright! He could feel his face growing warm, the veins popping up all over it, almost like a teapot boiling over. The urge to use his precious horsewhip at Elara was rising, he mentally already saw the thing slapping her across the face, but before he had a chance to act on his rightious impulse and put the common commoner in her place the snake woman had once again started to say something.

'The audacity!' He tightened his hand around his horsewhip. She was no lady, she was a malady! He would rather die than treat her like one of the rich people at court. He frowned at the very thought and tried to shake off the very thought, as if it had manifested on him in a physical manner. He felt a chill down his spine. What was that he heard from her? Was that the awful accent of those living closer to the Lunaris barbarian lands? Some sub-Aurelian speech. Not only were she a blightborn peasant, but one which was even more vile with her disgusting accent and now it was even hissing.

If only the head inquisitor were here, he would have known what to do. The nobleman felt a sense of loss. All the sensible people were in the capitol. Why had he come to this accursed place to begin with? Then he recalled. Fame and fortune. He would become the Marquess who not only defeated the blight but also found a cure, he would be famous and richer! And the king would make him a duke! No! He'd abdicate for certain!

Ayel's gaze momentarily phased out as his thoughts fell on himself, the sounds of Elara and Sya and everyone nearby became but buzzing noises, or the sounds one would get by listening to a conchshell. They were like the sea, and his own thoughts of himself was now caressing him like a soothing song, or the finest pure Aurelian wine being poured up into a glass. He had to speak with the prince soon, maybe by sacrificing alot of peasants somehow the blight would be ended. The goddess had to be unhappy about them defiling all other things which were beautiful. This was a trial! And he was going to pass it! Whilst he was preoccupied with himself he suddenly snapped out of it as he heard a voice.

"Pompous peacock?" He said out loud and looked around, first in a panic as if it had stirred some dread in him, but upon seeing the tall woman nearby he set his noble eyes on her. His eye twitched as he heard the wicked speech of the woman. She was one of those northern barbarians for certain. "How dare you, I will not eat or drink amongst the peasantry. What do I look like? Some vagabond or brigand. You dullwitted thickfaced brewbarian! Her property? Don't be absurd, a peasant cannot own their own land. That is reserved for us of the nobility." Ayel stroked the ruffles at his neck, his finger caressing his expensive brooché depicting himself in profile with a rose motif.

"This peasant whereof blighted or not is still a peasant, she should kneel in my presence as should you, you overgrown wash-maid that looks like a man. And who is this Lady Coswain? Not anyone I am familiar And trust me, I am in all the important circles with people who are almost as important as myself. Now off you go, I have some very important paperwork that needs to be done. I don't have time to bicker with every barbarian in here! Good day!" He raised his nose high enough that he felt like he could take a deep breath without potentially breathing the same air as Daphne. He began to turn his horse around and started to lead it in the direction of his carriage and home-in-progress. "Out of the way! Don't touch me!" He called out to anyone near him.

Those peasants would just wait until he had sent his letters. Then they would pay. They would all pay for their disrespect!

@PrinceAlexus@Qia

Realms of Sun & Shadow

Gadez Paladice

Gadez had watched Tia as they moved towards the front of the temple, his ghostly blue eyes wandering over her entire form.

During his stay with her, he had done what he could to not ask too much which she had to reply in long sentences or about her past. Her throat had after all been injured. He couldn't help to draw a parallell with her and a canary, a canary which could not longer sing and with broken wings. But even with that, she still seemed to marsch onwards. She was strong, perhaps not in the sense most would regard as powerful physically. But resilient and headstrong. She perservered even though the world had done it's seemingly best to end her.

Was it Seluna which had sent the blizzard to attempt to kill them both or destroy Dawnhaven? It wouldn't be surprising to him, after all it stood for something that both she and Aelios resented. Peace. The two goddesses had been fighting each other since the beginning of time, and humans had been the pawns in the great game. But a new player had entered the scene, which had sent their time-long struggle against each other to a halt. Now the old world would clash with a rising new world led by humans.

If the goddesses were unable to make peace, yet humans could. Did it mean they had now surpassed the very gods themselves? Aelios had possibly also attempted to use the situation, in an attempt to qwell his hate with that other dangerous feeling.

Now however… the blizzard was over, they stood on the front steps of the temple, just past the door, looking out at the scene before them. The cool wind traced along Gadez's bare chest, his blonde hair flickering in the wind. His eyes wandered over to Tia as she seemed to look up at the sky above before turning to face him. He also took a brief look at the sky and gentle snow falling. Tears of the snow queen.

"It is I whom should thank you, Tia." He reached up his bare hand, seeking to place it against her cheek and stroke it with his thumb.

"Even if a star is concealed, doesn't mean it's not there. Besides if you keep that smile, you might surpass their sparkle. Have faith in yourself, Tingara and the things dear to you, that is how you'll find your way home. Awaken that part of yourself still slumbering, what kind of world do you want Tia?" He asked softly, knowing she may not give him the answer, but he had to mention it nontheless. "You've sheltered the greatest enemy of Aelios and Aurelia... that takes alot of heart and bravery. You are quite the star in hiding yourself aren't you? Don't worry… I'll can keep a secret." He gave a soft smile as he nodded to her throat, then his eyes would look directly into hers, leaning in abit closer to open his mouth to- say something more?, but then he seemed to slam into an invisible force field that pulled himself back abit.

"Now let's get dressed properly shall we?" Gadez led her inside the temple again to the door to her chamber, before he went to get to the place where he placed his gear and clothes. Including the small wooden figurine heads he had carved from the firewood in secrecy. Was it theft? Debatable. They would come in handy later for what he had planned. He could always return them later. Or never.

As he leaned down to pick up his shirt, he spotted a familiar face entering the temple. He allowed himself a smirk, flinging his shirt over his shoulder and then his hand trailed down his tattooed muscular chest, before landing by his belt, his thumb playing with the top of the belt. "Good morning blazegazed one! I just finished with priestess Tomae. She'll be with you in abit once she's gotten dressed." Gadez smiled and took on his shirt slowly, almost as if he intentionally was taking his time.

@c3p-0h@The Muse

Realms of Sun & Shadow

Ayel Raunefeldt

The nobleman in his vast patience and understanding raised an arrogant eyebrow as Sya had had the gall to explain to him. HIM of all people. Who had attended the most prominent academy, achieved the most praise for his skills in everything. Despite having been set up by those jealous good for nothing second-grade nobles of the academy which had changed his answers somehow on the tests. It irked him still, how the guilty could escape rightious judgement. And now this serpentine horror had the audacity to stand before him on his elegant steed and attempt to make him seem a fool. How dared she.

"You dull thing, I know fully well of the difference between all things that slither. But what point is there really to differenciate things which are equally filthy? Hmm? You see, you dim dolt, I do not memorize every single ant I happen to stumble upon, naming them or having the time to do so. I have important work to do. And you being clean? Do not delude yourself. What? You have defiled some pristine spring with your wicked scaly slithering slime… " The nobleman was so upset he was spitting out his words, momentarily even causing a slight drool which he quickly tried to conceal with a swift grab of his napkin.

The nobleman's eyes were twitching, why in the world had every woman within Dawnhaven come to pester him? He knew that no doubt his noble features would attract admiration, even from the good-for-nothing peasant cast, but that they would be so rude and try defend the slithering beast before him. He couldn't understand it. The first to have gotten his noble gaze set upon them was Elara, he could see that she was pretty. For a peasant. He suspected she might have possibly even claimed bronze at the beauty contest in Aurelia. But that was from all the common peasant blob and their biased votes. He was still leagues above her.

"I am giving this abomination the respect she does deserve, which is none. I am the Marquess, Ayel Raunefeldt, and I deserve respect. For I am rich and I am influencial. This creature is more animal than human, she cannot own an establishment." He explained in a slow manner, as he knew that peasants were abit slower in the head. He would have to put in some effort to make them understand, in a sense he couldn't help but feel a slight admiration for those nobles in Aurelia that had to converse with them every day. No wonder his ilk worked themselves to death. These people were as dumb as they were dirty.

His focus soon shifted to another woman, this one blonde which had moved to put herself in the way. The audacity!

"Champion of her divine goddess, Aelios? Do you know who I am? I am the chosen of the goddess, look upon my grace girl. This face didn't shape itself out of the void, it was finely crafted by the goddess herself. As for hospitality, that does not give her the right to slither about in these parts and looking horrible-" He spoke up and his face grew more red by the seconds, the more Dyna spoke.

Her options struck him like bolts from the sky, they were crazy, was this woman insane?

Appologize and show respect to that disgusting serpent? Never. That would be like having a king kneel to a snail. He couldn't even entertain the idea. Then came the second option she provided, being civil? He was being civil enough by not ordering the affront to be dragged off. But then again the guards seemed to be against him. Those bigoted Lunaris barbarians. The woman proceeded to mention option three, which involved said guards. That was out of the question, they were barbarians only fit for outhouse duty. The last option she gave was that she would have him leave. She? This misguided servant of Aelios.

But what if Aelios would have given her some blessing? It surely wasn't as great as his own. But what if she would be displeased with him in reprimanding this woman? Fighting amidst the followers of Aelios would not be good. He wanted to whack her with his horse whip, but he withdrew the idea. Perhaps she would be more useful after his dear friend the prince had taught her to respect him. Perhaps she would be somewhat useful to him even? While the nobleman considered his options another blonde woman came into the scene. The nobleman gave out a sigh, then adjusted his hat and took the bothersome lock away from his face so that the newcomer could see his face and feel enthralled with it. Like everyone else no doubt felt.

Ayel raised an eyebrow on seeing the first blonde and the newcomer embrace. He couldn't help but wrinkle his nose at the sight, then he noticed the horns on Ranni and her other traits.

His face which had gotten slightly more calm was still riddled with disgust at the sight before him.

"Very touching. A reunion between yourself and your twin, the goat." The nobleman stroked his frilled shirt, his judging gaze looked over at the two blondes. Oddly enough the horned one made him feel odd. He felt like all of a sudden he had to pull out his mirror, and look at himself. A sense of dread overcame him, why had this disgusting goat-girl reminded him of himself? He wanted to go and clear his head. Perhaps this was a result of bad wine? But wasn't possible, the wine he always drank was good. Unless someone had mixed his drinks with those from the border region. He wanted to throw up as the thought struck him, of dirty barbarians using their feet to crush grapes and make wine.

"Unghh.. I- I have places to be.. ohh… uhh.." He reached his napkin to his mouth, to attempt to block out the smell that didn't come from his perfume and the idea of dirty peasants being without their attires. He quickly shook his head to rid his noble mind of these indecent visions. What in the world had made him think of these dirty things? Ayel felt something he had not felt for a long time. Shame. He had purify his mind as soon as possible, he closed his eyes and thought of himself and the statues and paintings of himself which would arrive with the next caravan. He blew out some air and tried to collect himself. Did the horned blonde look all of a sudden better than the one without? Impossible. Just a moment ago she were the less of the two peasants. The nobleman froze as if a horrible realization came over him. He was trying to compare potatoes with other potatoes. Was the blight thing getting to him? He had to rush away and curate himself!

The nobleman turned his horse around ready to leave, giving Sya a glare then shaking his head to Elara. Had the word gone mad? He was a Marquess? Why were they not bowing to him and praising him? He was dressed his best and his manners left nothing to be desired. He missed Aurelia and the noble circles already. He couldn't help but turn his head as he was leaving to look at the horned woman and her twin. Why did he just do that? He shook his head again. Must be some after blizzard cold. He couldn't help but feel dirty. He wanted to clean his hands.

@PrinceAlexus@Queen Arya@Qia

Realms of Sun & Shadow

Ayel Raunefeldt

Ayel's face grew more and more wrinkly with each words Sya uttered, his hands tightening into fists, the urge to lash out with his horsewhip was rising.

"Do not hiss at me you revolting reptile!" He almost spitted the words out, then adjusted his collar and pose atop his high horse.

"The prince gave it out all for free? You believe I would trust in the words of a one-eyed worm? I care nothing about your low quality barbarian brews, it's like serving bile on a bottle! My taste is much more refined and rich." He spoke in a angry manner, his noble nose wrinkling the more he thought about it.

Why in the world would the prince feed these lowlife workers for free? It seemed so foreign to him. Were he truly the son of the great Aurelian king? His friend which he had grown up with and played in the royal gardens with. Even if the prince's favorite game was hide and seek where Ayel was always left to do the searching. It irked him. Had some peasant or that wicked witch princess of the north ensnared him? He had to talk some common- No.. some noble sense into the prince. Unless… The noble took a moment to think more deeply, what if the free food was a way to ferret out the weak? Could the prince have added some poison to the supply to thin out the herd's weakest members? The Marquess' eyes seemed to widen and then his expression turned to a more pleased one.

The prince was a genius. Ofcourse it had to be some reason like that. Or having the otherwise thick-headed louts do what he needed them to do. Like feeding things to the dumb ox to plow the fields, as long as the serfs were kept in check and dumb enough, that was good to him. They were after all living for one purpose alone, to serve their betters. He mentally moaned to himself, almost wanting to raise his gloved finger to his mouth to taste it. So delicious was the imagery he was provided with.

Ofcourse the prince knew these barbarian serfs better than him, he likely knew just the right way to make them somewhat useful. But still.. there remained that one problem with the barbarian princess, She had to be taken away from the prince by some means. She was a bad influence on him, she might even convince the prince, who was noble in his heart of rebelling against his esteemed father. The very idea of a civil war made the noble frown, he didn't want to get dragged into a battlefield, he was a lover not a fighter. But then again it could have been a good way to make a profit or thin the dumb working herd.

The noble phased back into the scene and his eyes fell on the building, which was seemingly the Eye of the beholder. Some kind of inn. He hated it. It was bigger than his home in progress, he couldn't let the presence of that vile structure ruin his view out of his bedroom window to be. It had to be demolished somehow. What if there was an accidental fire? The noble chuckled in his mind, the very idea made him feel giddy inside. But soon he set his eyes on Sya again.

"No matter how much pillows you throw into a pig sty, it is still a pig sty, no matter how big it is. And no matter how much you fabric you strip on a repulsive reptile it is still slithering and- disgusting!" He grimaced and adjusted his seating on his horse, giving Sya a condescending look. "How dare you look at me with that disgraceful gaze? Bow your head if you wish to keep it. I happen to be a Marquess and a friend of the prince. I am rich you know. Now creature, you may kneel… or curl or whatever your ilk does. I take it your master has at the very least taught you that? I am Marquess Ayel Raunefeldt, you silly serpent, I am here to ensure that QUALITY is kept within Dawnhaven. I am the guildmaster of the highly esteemed Aurelius Emporium. It wouldn't suprise me if you ill informed thralls wouldn't even know -that-. And I AM the man of honor. Look upon me and tremble at the display of grace, you meager maggot." He said in a self-indulging voice, clearly proud of all his titles. How they clad him magnificently.

@PrinceAlexus

Realms of Sun & Shadow

Ayel Raunefeldt

The Marquess was pleased, it was the most important mission of the day to the nobleman. His solitude with himself had been a trial, not because he found himself to be awful company, but because there had been no opportunity to display himself before everyone else.

It wasn't that he would admit he loved being looked upon in jealousy, in praise and worship. At least that was what he told himself. It was to display his higher standing in life to all manner of people under him.

He couldn't afford some peasants to start planning some revolt or put forth some request to impose restrictions on his noble class. The very idea made him shudder.

Yet for now he had eaten his breakfast and was saddled atop his favorite white horse, with enough fabric covering the horse to keep it warm and make sure that the noble rider wouldn't get any horse-fleas or hair on his fine garments. Not like any of his horses had any fleas, he had specifically instructed his workers and Faldrin to keep them clean and far away from other horses.

Even with horses things had to be separated by class. He loved it.

As Ayel rode in on his horse into the middle of Dawnhaven, he expected them to greet him with waving and saluting. But as he had not announced his arrival to the prince, there were no trumpets. But it soon became clear to him there would be neither of the things he expected. He recoiled in shock to what he saw, serfs lining up for food, and not having to pay for it. The nobleman felt the sweat building at his forehead despite the cool air.

'Who is the business disaster that has made this affront?' His eyes scanned his surroundings with scrutiny. Were there some other noble present? One of those 'new times' nobles which spoke up in favor of the peasants. He hated those class traitors.

He grew more and more concerned as he heard the chatter of all the commoners, their faces lit up with hope, their dirty clothes and faces stuffed with food. They were happy.

The noble felt a big lump in his stomach. This was wrong. So very wrong.

'His royal majesty must know of this right away... there's some rebellious activity in this place. Perhaps my dear friend the prince could stop this display of wasting resources to the unworthy.' Ayel adjusted his large feathered hat, pulling his bothersome lock of hair from his face.

He looked over the crowd from his elevated position on his horse. At least he felt good about looking over them, like one would watch an anthill with all those workers serving their leader. The momentary thought put him in a better mood as he moved closer with his horse.

"Make way. Out of the way. I don't have all day." He said aloud. Directing people to make a path for him, the people giving him glares. Him of all people. How dared they. One of the serfs even had the gall to sneakily slip his horse a carrot.

"Stop that at once. My horse is on a strict diet, it must not eat low quality- where do you think you are going? I am talking to you-" He gritted his teeth as the serf eluded him and vanished into the sea of serfs. Once lost in there, he felt unable to tell it apart from the rest. They all looked and smelled the same.

He thought he could see the guardsman which had pestered him a week ago. His face was more memorable to the noble. Having made sure to memorize the people whose wronged him. He also could smell... farmer stench. But he couldn't tell from where, it was as if the odour of all the thralls had created a mixed miasma that was even overpowering his expensive perfume.

Ayel's eyes landed on someone with a fancy coat. A fellow noble? Perhaps she could enlighten him where to find the culprit behind the free food ploy.

"Pardon me milady, but would you be so kind and direct me to whomever is responsible for this waste of resources?" He said, putting on his best smile, he had it practiced and nailed down perfectly after hours upon hours of mirror talks.

The Marquess smile completely died soon after as he saw the persons face and the rest of the body. A large eye slammed right into the middle of her face and a reptilian lower body. It wasn't a milady, it was a malady.

'By Aelios noble grace! A monster!' He thought, his eyes widening in horror, then he looked around for the nearest torch. This monster was sneakily pretending to be a noble, hiding in the midst of the witless vagrants and surely plotting something. Was this the culprit? Ayel felt almost paralyzed by fear. What manner of diseases were this -thing- carrying into the place. There had to be laws against it. Someone had to do something.

The monster appeared to be female. It troubled him further. What if it would spawn more of its kind? Animals and monsters were supposed to be in cages or arenas. Or put down. Why was this thing free?

"You there, what are you doing here, speak up beast but watch your tongue. Did you arrange this gluttonous serf feast?" Ayel asked in a stern voice, he was still nervous. 'This creature shouldn't even exist. Where are the menagerie keeper when you need him? This wicked abomination should burn by the stake.' He mentally told himself.

Then again. The price for snakeskin had gone up. There could be profit to be had.

@PrinceAlexus

Realms of Sun & Shadow

Gadez Paladice

To most people being confined to a building for as long as the blizzard lasted would have been a challenge. But for someone like Paladice it was something he was very used to, having been more or less raised within a monastery. He wasn't one to grow bored. There was always something to do, something to ponder upon. Or in this particular case. Someone to talk with. But that may have been quite the understatement as the person in question, Tingara wasn't one who spoke alot. This did however not stop the man from doing it himself, but not encouraging his companion to speak unless she wanted to. The scar upon her neck was a sign enough for him to know that it was likely both painful and difficult, that she was still walking about was good enough on it's own.

She was a priestess, and they were both now in a temple. Two things he absolutely despised, yet despite that… there was something about her which beckoned to him. Something strange. Something foreign. Who in the world was this girl? Which the goddess had sent out to seemingly die in a blizzard? Or had she? What if it had all been an elaborate ploy to slowly draw him into the temple.

Whichever the case. It couldn't be helped. But worst of all... he had enjoyed the stay.

She was a good listener, if abit shy and reserved. But not only that, she was a beauty too. He couldn't help but notice that she seemed to feel embarassed about her scar somehow, as if that mark was all there were to her. The blue eyed man didn't press her for how she received it, she had already been through quite the ordeal with the blizzard and then being locked up in the temple with him of all people. Such would have worn down just about anyone. He knew as much. Still it didn't stop him from occasionally teasing her.

Training about shirtless in the great hall with the brazier, swinging about his swordspear like he usually did every morning. But perhaps he enjoyed causing her to fluster. Or how he was sneaking up next to her as she was arranging the books and blowing some air into her ear. Or intentionally misunderstanding what she would be saying and twisting it to the point she would feel frustrated. He did enjoy these things, especially when someone gave as good reactions to them as she did. But he didn't only tease her, he also told her some stories of what the old monks used to do or the circus performers. Or that one particular blightborn woman and the kissing booth incident which he was not involved with but came to witness. Or the old story about the prince which rose up and fought his father the king? Or the dumb ideas people had on what could be the cause of the blight… there were so many stories to tell if there were listeners.

While he could have asked Tia alot of things, he knew that her answers would be short and she might not be able to do it well.

Their time in the temple had however, with all things considered been a pleasant thing. Even if she had seemed surprised on seeing him join her in the hot spring without a notice. To him such was not a big deal, as the old monastery had that very thing. Albeit without a priestess like her present. She seemed to take it well as she didn't leave the water until after he had. Curious.

He had also noticed how she had stared at his tattoo, whereof he informed her with a hint of mystique in his voice.

"This is known to some as the... tincture. A symbol in alchemy. A mythic thing which was told to be able to turn base things into… gold. Others believe the secret formula would yield the key to immortality. Ofcourse no one knows what the formula is. If it even exists... This is just the symbol which has come to represent their search." He had smiled as he traced his fingers along the shape of the tattoo, as he explained it to Tia.

Their time together had passed by swiftly however, too swiftly for his liking. He still had much he wanted to say and ask her. But there was a time for everything. When the blizzard-free morning finally came, when the blizzard had finally gone away. Paladice had gone up, wearing no shirt as usual, he peeked out the temple door and saw the clear weather.

'It's about time. I was almost spreading roots in here. Well I suppose we are even goddess. I saved your priestess and you provided me with some reprieve. Don't get carried away however.' He scoffed and slammed the temple door shut, he wanted to get his things and get dressed properly. But it wouldn't be right to do so without letting Tia know about the blizzard being over, and bidding his leave. The blonde man went all the way over to her bedchamber.

He stopped for a moment, considering if he should knock. Knowing that Tia was a shy, nervous and likely slightly traumatized. From the blizzard. The monk-warrior decided that this called for abit more of a special approach, he softly opened the door and walked in. Spotting Tia lying in her bed. He slowly walked over with quiet steps, then he leaned down by her bed to look at her face. She was sleeping well by the looks of it, and not snoring. He didn't suspect such a small woman would be able to snore very loud either way. She looked alot less tense and more at peace in her sleep, at least from what he could tell.

He smiled softly, as his eyes wandered over her smooth looking skin and landing on her lips. She was stunning… for a priestess. He had however met four women within Dawnhaven and all four were beauties in their own right. But there was something with this one… He couldn't help but feel something, as if something about the moment in time. Almost as if time itself stood still. What in the world was happening? His eyes wandered about. He wasn't being affected by an illusion, his heartbeat was however growing more loud and he felt a drop of sweat on his forehead. Were someone watching him? Aelios? He felt warmth? As if that would make him kneel! He shook his head softly and then raised his hand, stretching out one of his fingers to poke Tia on her cheek.

"Awaken Tingara. Tiiiin...gaaa...raaa… awaken." He said softly, trying not to startle her as he attempted to wake her up.

"The blizzard is over... come look. My my, if you sleep any longer the bears will wake up before you do..." He said softly, hoping she would wake up. Well at the very least she wouldn't scream at him. Cause she couldn't? Right?

@c3p-0h

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