A Kingdom Forged Is a Kingdom Earned

[chicbecause]

(I edited my form... again....)

[Astrodeath311]

Username: Astrodeath311

Character Name: Marcus Wright

Age: 33.

Gender: Male.

Species: Aquasals.

Appearance: Marcus [Normal Form; out of water] | Marcus [Aquasals Form; in water]

Personality: Marcus, being the owner of the Shoreside Castle Aquarius, has a vast wealth of servants, gold, and land. However, he also has the vast majority of the ocean to claim as well. He has no need of breathing apparatus', for he is an Aquasals, a fish-man of sorts. Out of water, he appears to be as any other normal being. However, when water washes over his body, he takes his true form, voluntarily or not. He grows gills, loses his use of his legs and lungs, though this is only temporary. He is caring for his own, though less so to others not of his kind. He is compassionate and tolerating, though there are some things beyond forgiveness. Gain his trust, and you'll have it forever. He's passionate, funny, helpful, and stubborn. He loathes fighting, but will ride to battle if necessary.

History: RP'd. =_=

Name of your castle: Castle Aquarius.

Other: You make the best RP's Thael, but they never take off.

What is the name of your king?: King Davian Lendal.

[chicbecause]

(Can we start yet?)

[Thaelasan]

((

))

 

His footsteps echoed throughout the chasm and the wasteland. His curved boots tracked no footprints, but left behind a trail of magical energy. His body was almost ethereal. As grand magi, he had also attained the sacred rank of Ascendant, and was one of the only mages blessed with the ancient power he was about to use.

He turned to the skies, covered in shadows and ancient echoes of sorrow. The clouds did not part for him, and he did not expect them to. No sun would ever shine on Candor, ever again. Not here, not in this time. They had lost their chance.

Ten children, chosen by Davian to lead a people, and they had failed. They had risen, a destiny promised to them by the Fates themselves, and they had fallen to Graul.

"Yes, my lord. I may do this for you, as promised." the wizard stroked his long beard, frowning. "Yet I know not what it will accomplish. Once, I would have believed anything you told me, but now this is all that is left. Is this what you desired?"

He spread his cloak out as if gesturing to an imaginary follower, the dust billowing out into the horizon. The grass that had once made Candor green and fertile was long gone, parched and dry. The waters that had once been filled with oceans of boats and seafaring men had boiled and gone to make the clouds that suffocated men. The people who flocked and played in the fields of Albassa were gone, replaced by demonspawn that creeped around on four legs, hissing and spitting out their vile acids. They attacked each other without question, still wishing they had more mortals to slay.

During the war, this Grand Ascendant had not been able to aid in the battle, as with such power came a great knowledge of what would come to be should he do so. Graul sought him out, so he hid in limbo, waiting for when Davian would call upon him, hoping he would not.

He did.

He had once had a name, yes, something starting with a "V," but names were nothing here. Nothing more than the last thing you would remember before your life was cut short by a vicious Lucen. This world was dead, and so were the souls within it, despite them still moving with the desire to somehow survive.

Why would they want to survive in such a hell?

He turned now to where he had come from, and he saw what he expected. Upon the horizon, where he had traveled, Graul's face was visible. He was part of the clouds now, nothing more than a giant mass of shadow and despair. The clouds were heading for the Grand Mage, and their intent was clear.

Graul had found him, as he had foreseen. Yet, he would perform one final act before slaughtered by the damned. The kings and queens who had survived until now had given him their names and their new fates. He held them now, tied in a bundle of scrolls.

"MAGE!"

The Magi turned. Graul's massive face was upon him now, a crackle of thunder and fire bellowing from within him. His eyes were mere slits of white, his body having reached a form of nigh invincibility. The gods themselves had not been able to kill him, for he was an Aspect, a demon made of the Gods' fallen allies during the War of the Heavens.

"You have come at the right time, Graul." the mage chuckled. "You can see me cause your undoing."

"YOU HAVE ELUDED ME FOR A LONG TIME, DEMON-SEEKER. YOU ARE THE LAST OF THOSE I MUST SLAY BEFORE MY POWER MAY BECOME ITS PEAK. I HAVE WAITED FOR THIS DAY FOR EONS."

"Far be it from me to stop you from your fate." the Magi turned, uninterested. "But I have long stopped feeling any emotion whatsoever. You will have to kill me by other means."

"SO YOU KNEW..." Graul licked his jaws, his massive tongue covered in blades and shards of mortal bone. "THEN WHY DID YOU NOT WARN THEM?"

"You were little more than a test to assure me of what I already knew, Graul." the Magi held up his hands, his staff beginning to glow. "Perhaps if they had known you were only able to hurt those with Fury within them, they may have won. Yet, warning them would have done nothing. They had to learn for themselves the truth of the matter."

"THEN YOU TOLD THEM NOW?" Graul grinned, enjoying this last farce. "DID YOU TELL THEM THEY CAUSED MY STRENGTH? THAT THIS HELL IS THEIR DOING? THAT THEY ARE RESPONSIBLE FOR THE DEATH OF MILLIONS, AND I WAS ONLY THE JUDICATOR?

The Mage continued to cast his spell, nonchalant and unemotional. Long ago, before he had become a mage, he remembered the tales of the Demon Aspects and their dark powers. The very manifestations of the sins of man, culminated into their undoing. They were born when power became corrupt, when those with the might to kill many were turned upon their own followers by a single pull on the puppet strings.

"SO, MAGE, WHAT ARE YOU EVEN TRYING TO ACCOMPLISH? DO YOU REALLY THINK THAT YOU CAN CHANGE DESTINY? YOU ARE NOT A GOD." the demon laughed. It was a sonic scream that sent the Mage's robes billowing forward, and sent the dust upon the ground flying into the sky itself. It was a chilling boom of thunder, the call of the dead.

"I am not a God." the Mage repeated. "I am just a man with a vision of Hope, and it is something you could not crush."

"BUT IT WAS ELNORA WHO RELEASED ME." the demon cackled again. "IT WAS A HUMAN WHO OPENED THAT WRETCHED PRISON AND PULLED US INTO THE WORLD. IT WAS A MORTAL WHO DARED TO DEFY THE RIGHTS OF GODS FOR THEIR OWN POISONING CURIOSITY. IT WAS MAN WHO FIRST STARED AT A BLADE AND SAID THAT IT WOULD BE GOOD IN SOMEONE ELSE'S THROAT. YOU PEOPLE BOAST OF PURITY AND DIVINE CAUSE, BUT YOU ONLY SEARCH FOR MEANS OF KILLING EACH OTHER AS IF IN SOME SORT OF BLOODY ARENA."

The Mage began to reach the pinnacle of his spell, the scrolls flapping and ripping from his cloak as they soared off the side of the cliff. The pieces of paper flew into the air, seeming to drift, weightless, for a moment. Then, suddenly, each one simply... vanished.

"I FEEL SO HONORED, MAGE, TO WITNESS THE LAST, FEEBLE ATTEMPT OF MORTALS TO SPITE ME, EVEN THOUGH YOU WERE THE ONES WHO CREATED ME TO BEGIN WITH." Graul stared at the mage with heated intensity. "PERHAPS YOU BELIEVE NOW THAT YOU HAVE ATONED FOR YOUR SIN BY THROWING GARBAGE EVERYWHERE?

The demon howled with laughter. The skies shook, and the mountains began to tremble. He turned, staring at the world, and held out his hand for the mage to see as well.

"DO YOU SEE IT, MORTAL?" Graul hissed. "THIS BEAUTIFUL CREATION THAT REPRESENTS YOUR WORLD, PURIFIED OF SIN AND THOSE WHO COULD FEEL IT. EVERY RACE, ENSLAVED AND FORCED TO FOLLOW A SINGLE CREED. I HOLD EVERY MIND IN MY THRALL, AND I KNOW EVERY LITTLE THOUGHT THEY THINK EACH DAY. THIS, IS UTOPIA."

"Perhaps, Graul, you may have forged a perfect world, but it is a world of nothingness, and no one to appreciate it but you and I." He turned to Graul, staff at his side. "However, do you know what I think each day? Can you see into my mind?"

Graul hissed again, this time in anger. He spat, furious.

"NO, AND IT CONFUSES ME. YOU CONTINUE TO RESIST, AND ARE THE ONLY SOUL WHO DID. EVEN DAVIAN FELT A BIT OF RAGE WHEN I TORE HIS HEART FROM HIS CHEST AND HURLED IT INTO THE ABYSS. ALL MORTALS CAN BE CORRUPTED IN SOME WAY, BUT YOU HAVE TURNED AWAY EVERY VICE AND SIN THAT I HAVE OFFERED YOU. WHY?" Graul leaned closer, his breath now fully in the Mage's visage. It smelled of corpses and the undead.

"DO YOU REALLY WISH TO EXIST IN THIS WORLD NOW? DO YOU WANT TO RESIST SIMPLY BECAUSE OF SOME HUMAN INSTINCT TO LIVE? COME, ALLOW ME TO END YOUR SUFFERING."

"I do not resist because of anything but vengeance, Graul, and that is one thing that is not a sin. I feel no anger towards you, and no rage. I only wish to exist to see you stare upon me each day and grow more and more furious as you realize you will never take me." he smiled.

"YOU ARE A DAMN FOOL." Graul growled.

"No. I am not, and if you will excuse me, I must watch your plans be undone by those who have the choice."

"ENJOY YOUR ENTERTAINMENT WHILE YOU WATCH ME CRUSH THEM AGAIN AND AGAIN. HUMANS NEVER CHANGE. Graul seethed.

"We shall see." the Mage took a seat, preparing a bowl of scrying. "We shall see."

 

----

 

In another timeline parallel to that one, a small meeting was being held in a glorious castle known as Raldunis....

Pieces of paper fell to each of the children, telling them of the coming end and warning them of Graul's power.. and that he could not hurt them should they not become furious...

The time begins.

 

[Takhesis]

Ariana Clouddancer had flown to Raldunis castle in response to a summons. Part of her was eager to see with her own eyes the wonders the Elders had spoken of, yet a greater part of her doubted that she was ready for such a thing. After all she was still a fledgling compared to the Nephelisi ambassador that would normally attend a formal gathering.

 

However the Elders believed it was time for their new trainee to become familiar with the ways of the other races, she had proved herself capable in their eyes and that was what mattered. I shall not let them down, I shall prove worthy of their trust. Ariana vowed to herself as she glided down to the courtyard of the castle.

 

The guards challenged her as she approached, and as formalities required, she introduced herself and presented the summons.

 

"Ariana Clouddancer, representing the Nephelisi in the forthcoming council."

 

She was then escorted to the meeting room where the other races would be meeting. As she settled into the designated space for the Nephelisi, Ariana glanced around and her eyes witnessed a strange thing - a piece of paper came into being before her and gently floated down undisturbed by any air movement. Not so odd - flat pieces of paper can drift, but this one wasn't flat it was still curled as if a ribbon binding had only just been removed.

 

It settled on the table in front of her, and there it uncoiled for her to read. The writing was clear, yet not in a hand she recognised. The text spoke of an upcoming battle with an ancient foe, also with a warning that should one feel the strong blood-red passion that foe would be greater still in strength.

Edited February 6, 2013 by Takhesis

[Lore_Master]

A trio of humans on top of strange, armored beasts arrived at the castle gates, before coming to a stop. In the middle was a man with leather armor and cloth around his head. On his back was a sword and shield, forged from deep metal, a material of the wastes. He stared at the walls with slight contempt. "Shield-Sister, are you sure the directions were correct?" The garbed human said, looking over to the female in heavy armor. Calmly, she pulled out the summons notice, then muttered a few things to herself. "The directions are correct, this is the place." She said, rolling the note back.

 

"Calm yourself Logan" the last human said, he was much older then the two of them, but also the most dressed for such an occasion. He had a dagger and bow on his back, even though he was the most calm he wasn't an idiot.

 

"We're not in the wastes, the worst we would deal are just wolves" The older man said with a small chuckle.

 

"Even if that's truth, we should probably continue this discussion inside the walls." Logan said, his two companions nodded as they followed him.

 

-------------------------------------------------------------

 

 

Once inside the main hall, a guard approached them, asking them to state their business.

 

"Logan, I represent the humans." He said, not bothering to make himself look all regal or grand. He was a researcher and warrior, not a damn king. Still, the summon still asked for him by name, so somebody thought he was a leader. "My companions are Elise, my shield-sister and Alexander, my mentor." He added, the both of them nodded at the guard.

 

Once that was all said and done, the three of them were escorted to the meeting room. The first thing Logan noticed was the winged humanoid creature, a Nephelisi. "Huh, and I thought they were just myths." Elise whispered to Logan, he nodded in agreement as they made their way to the seat that represented his kind.

 

Out of nowhere, a piece of paper popped into onto the table. Cautiously unrolling it, he began to read the clear words. Once he was done, he looked at Alexander. "Once this meeting is done, I want you to examine this scroll and see if there is anything you can gleam from it." Logan whispered, passing the scroll to the old man.

[SkullKrusher]

(( Time for the large post river to flow... ))

It was two days ago, when the request for a meeting came to Blazeforge Castle. Argoth himself opened the scroll and checked it, finding the seal of Davian, the king that was thought to be much older than he looked. He was a man respected by Argoth because of his ruling and so he was naturally going to go to this meeting. On the same day was when he left his only advisor, Elenora, that was there by him while he was still a young Knight and helped him with every choice he had to undertake. The message was answered by a scout, simply saying "I will be there, sir." It was singed and had a seal of Argoth himself, who had launched from his kingdom to the far lands of the Dragonkin. He rided hard for the castle, yet went alone himself. He was not risking the life of his friends and his only companion, the steed under him. His horse was pure white, covered in battle armor that both defended it yet kept it very agile. The whole distance stood in front of him as he rode first out of the tundras and into the open fields, his horse keeping up as much as possible.

 

Two days were enough for him to reach his destinaton and he stood on Raldunis' castle gates. The guards glanced at him and he passed the scroll gotten by Davian, then immediately stated his name "Argoth Skywing, coming as the old king, Varas Mithril's succesor to the title of king and representing him. I do have the official Royal Passing by him himself." He spoke, placing another scroll in the hand of the other guard. These were documents he always kept with himself while he travelled. The guards did a quick check on him and then returned, allowing his entry into the castle walls. He smiled and got off his steed, his crimson armor shining slightly and reflecting the light from the sun that was coming down. His blade, forged by a Dragonkin, was strapped on the belt around his waist as he walked through the corridors and reached the meeting room. He took the seat of the Gruns, and he noticed a strange note that fell from the air. Taking it quickly and reading it, he managed to understand a bit of the ancient text thanks to his knowledge on it, then placed it in his pocket as he waited for the others.

Edited February 6, 2013 by SkullKrusher

[chicbecause]

A lovely snow white mare, accompanied by six magnificent bay stallions, trotted at an easy pace. The stallions all were lightly clad in gold and silver armor, the mare, however, wore none. They trotted in formation, three stallions on one side, three on the other side of the mare. It was a magnificent sight to behold, the horses themselves. But it was the riders that made the sight so entrancing. They were all elves. Utop the bay stallions rode fierce looking, young and noble archers, all clad in lovely silver armor adorned with silver and gold. The armor looked almost to lovely to ride into battle in. They all had long white hair, that fell just beneath their shoulder blades and carried spears at their sides. A beautiful elven maiden rode astride the white mare, her long, golden brown hair flowing in the slight breeze behind her. The maiden wore a simple, poison green gown and a crown. Not one of those big bulky crowns that were heavy and only made you look silly, but a small thin band of silver, decorated with emerald flowers that actually improved her appearance, not that it needed any improving. She too wore a bow and quiver on her back, but her appearance looked all to gentle for her to use it. It was a company of seven all together, that may mean nothing to anyone that saw them ride by, but for the elves; even nothing meant something. Everything they did had a purpose, in this case, the seven riders were symbolic of the seven rivers which flowed into their lovely home, Evengale.

 

The riders approached a large palace, slowing to a halt at the gate. It was rare for an elf to be questioned, as they were one of the most noble and honorable peoples of the land. The maiden rode forward, so she was to be more easily heard by the gaurd. "We come from Evengale, on request of his majesty the King Davian. I am Xiri, daughter of the elven lord Gris." she stated in a musical tone, handing to him a scroll. She did this only to satisfy his curiosity and ease any suspicions, for, as stated above, elves were rarely questioned. The gaurd looked over the scroll before giving the order for the gates to be lowered. The company proceeded into the palace courtyard, before dismounting, and handing their mounts off to some servants. They then walked into the palace, quickly finding their way into the place of meeting. Xiri took a seat at the indicated place set aside for Evengale, the rest of the company stood. A small note flittered down, to which Xiri caught easily and read. It was in the ancient tounge, a language well known and regularly used by the elves.

Edited February 6, 2013 by chicbecause

[Takhesis]

Ariana Clouddancer pondered the meaning of the mysterious scroll as the other races gathered. The words were clear enough, yet there was something missing, the author's seal for one thing. And how could the writer foresee the future in such detail.... even the skilled Nephelisi seers couldn't predict exactly what could happen... they could only read the potential futures if certain actions were taken or not as the case maybe.

 

As her thoughts were focused on the scroll, she remained alert and observed the other races as the entered. After all that was the purpose the Elders had stated for the unusual circumstance of her requested presence at this meeting rather then the usual ambassador.

 

As such she witnessed the same phenomenon occur for each of the representatives.

Curiouser and curiouser But it did potentially shed some light on the purpose behind the messages - assuming the messages were all the same. Only one way of finding out... yet how do I broach the subject without seeming too blunt and rude?

It certainly gave Ariana some other avenues of potential solutions to the initial dilemma.

 

Perhaps this subject is best spoken of when all are present.... after all King Davian called us all here - perhaps he'll have some extra insight to this occurance.

 

She did speak though, if only in greeting to the other representatives. Her speech was formal, so as not to offend.

 

"Greetings from the Nephelisi people to the honored ones present. I trust your journey was uneventful."

[Thaelasan]

(( Could you all do me a favor? When you start a new speaking phrase, please start a new paragraph. My English teachers made that my inner CREED.

When you have a new set of dialogue, you begin a new paragraph, even if the speaking happens during the set of events. It is because you are beginning a new idea.

I'd appreciate it. Sometimes all of your characters talking can get mixed up and muddled. It also makes the size of your posts bigger. :3 ))

 

"PRESENTING, HIS ROYAL HIGHNESS!" roared the crier. "THE KING, DAVIAN LENDAL! PLEASE RISE FOR-"

Davian laid a hand upon his shoulder and the man stopped.

"Please. No ceremony here. You know how I feel about that sort of thing." he whispered, moving his hand away. The crier nodded, muttering something about tradition.

The king moved into full view of the light from the windows, and one could see that though he was modest, he did wear regal finery when it was needed. A golden sash adorned his waist, as well as a robe that reflected the light as he walked. His long tail flicked back and forth, adorned with silver armor. His wings, large and shining gold, were also covered in vital spots with armor and pieces of decor. His face, currently human, wore the crown of the people, the many species of Candor each having their own space upon it. He smiled warmly as he took his seat before them at the meeting table, his wings folding behind him as though they had never been there.

He cleared his throat a moment, and asked, pleased,

"Is everyone here? When they are, we may begin."

[Takhesis]

((I thought I did. Unless you want me to do it for the Italicized thoughts too?))

 

Ariana tried not jump at the crier's sudden announcement. She had been too deep in her thoughts to notice the opening door. After all no-one had replied to her greeting, so she had returned to her contemplation of the papers.

 

As King Davian entered and walked to his seat at the meeting table, smiling and nodding to all present, Ariana lowered her head and spread her wings flat in what could be called a bow. It was a gesture of respect to higher authority, or in cases when one is need of consulting another - such as she would need to do in future as Queen consulting the Elders, of course as yet this had not come to pass.

 

The formaility had been ingrained into her from a very early age and habit was a very hard thing to break.

 

Although in this particular case, both reasons were very valid. Ariana both respected the King's title and had questions about the mysterious paper that had appeared. For a moment she wished someone older and wiser than herself had been called to this meeting.

 

The Elders would have a better grasp of the meaning of such events....

[Thaelasan]

(( No no, I didn't mean you. You're perfect, in fact, almost a model. I also like how you double space like that. It's purty. ))

 

 

[Astrodeath311]

Marcus Wright, Owner of Castle Aquarius

 

A sublime day out on the water. Marcus was fishing, trying to help out in the daily affairs of his castle: Aquarius, where the water flows freely and is pure as snow. Indeed, water was an abundance in his land, most likely due to the fact that the castle was situated overlooking the ocean, and that servants went down daily to collect more of it. They purified it over a fire, then put it back into the ocean in a container so that it was as cool as ice. Come winter-time, there would be even chillier water. In fact, it'd be even easier for it to be harvested, by simply drilling holes into the ice and leaving the container in the hole for a while. However, one must never forget about a full container, for when water freezes, it expands. If there is no place for the water to expand to, the container holding it is forced to shatter. Therefore, it is necessary to take it out before the water freezes, but after its become cold enough.

 

Staring along the horizon, Marcus saw a shape. The wind blew playfully through his hair, and he sat there enjoying it. Suddenly, he felt his pole jerk wildly, and he took it up into his hands and set the hook gruffly. Then, he reeled in the fish and pulled it off of the hook, and examined it. His fishy curiosity sated, he tossed it carelessly to the bottom of the boat. In doing so, he saw the shape had become much bigger, because it seemed to be coming towards him. Curiosity once again peaked, Marcus reeled in his fishing pole and waited for it. He didn't wait for very long, once it was in arms length he snatched it from the breeze and read it. It informed him that he was to go to Castle Raldunis. Interested, Marcus turned the boat back to his castle, deciding to go; for Castle Raldunis is the place where King Davian resided, and also the capital of Candor. Some minutes later, Marcus's boat was docked, and he set off to the canal which served as a travel route from Castle Aquarius to the capital. He set his personal belongings, not including his clothes, in a basket and closed the lid. Then, he hopped into the water and grabbed the basket handle. His transformation to Aquasals form was quick, and he set off towards the castle, making good time because of the note he received. Normally his pace was lax, but because of the note he received, he picked up the pace.

 

Marcus arrived at the castle rather quickly. He took the basket out of the water and placed it on a ledge above the canal, and got out of it. Water that soaked his clothes seeped through the cloth and into his skin, leaving them dry. He picked up the basket and put the items in it back onto his person, then left it there and walked briskly towards the castle. The transformation back to human was quick as well, and Marcus almost forgot about it. The slits in his neck closed, his feet lost their webbing. A guard stopped him and asked him for his name and business. After all, you couldn't have anyone try and frame the Aquasals for a crime. They were the leading reason why Candor was prosperous. The Aquasals were excellent traders, having an eye for money, pricing, anything to do with trade. To make them end the alliance was to doom Candor's economy.

 

Various people greeted Marcus, but he paid them no mind. He was here on different business; a paper he received from the wind whilst he was fishing. He walked towards the castle, tired because of his long swim and the fast pace he was taking. He stopped by a stall operated by who he guessed was one of his kin in species. He bought a skin of wine, and bread from the stall next to it, and then sat down on a bench. He ate the meal in silence, then rested for a minute after finishing. He took a deep breath then let it out, standing up from the bench and setting off to the castle once more. He arrived in an hour or so, showing the paper to the guard who shooed him in quickly at the sight of it. He received directions to the room in which the council was meeting and arrived five minutes before it started.

 

[Am I literate yet?]

Edited February 7, 2013 by Astrodeath311

[Thaelasan]

(( You said the paper hit him in the face, but then you said you had to chase it.. why? ))

[Astrodeath311]

(( You said the paper hit him in the face, but then you said you had to chase it.. why? ))

[bRB, fixing

 

NOTE TO SELF: Proofread, k?

 

Edit: I fixed it. Hopefully I won't mess up like that in the future.]

Edited February 7, 2013 by Astrodeath311

[chicbecause]

Xiri rose as the King entered and clasped her shoulder right shoulder with her left hand. She bowed her head out of respect and the majestic company behind her mimiced her actions.

"My King, Xiri of Evengale reports upon your request and brings the respects of her people." Xiri stated with that same musical tone she always spoke with.

She had never been one for formality, something reflected in her dress. Although the simple nobility and grace with which she stood made the dress seem like a ball gown, rather than a simple riding gown. Today she chose to bear with the formality. To her it was like saying as little as possible, but use as many words as possible. Glancing about the room, her head still bowing, she labeled each ruler individually.

 

(Falling asleep... sorry....)

Edited February 7, 2013 by chicbecause

[SkullKrusher]

Argoth rose from his seat as the King walked in, following him with his gaze. He then sat down as to watch each race's representative acknowledge their honor and when they finished, it was his turn. Getting up, he slightly cleared his throat that had become strained because of how dry his throat was, and spoke with the most serious yet calm tone that was available to him.

 

"Argoth Skywing, representative and royally-proclaimed by the last ruler King of the Gruns. My nation sends it's respect, loyalty and best wishes, My King. Oh, and thank you for the early message, sir."

 

He spoke, then took a seat. He wasn't a man of royalty - and that was visible from his basic yet masterfully-made and crafted leather armor that shone from the sun, although his negotiation skills were the best out there. After Argoth took his seat, he then took a look at the old king. He was covered in a royal-befitting armor set that shone in the sun and his large, spread wings made him feel respect for this man. He was one of the people which defended him whne the Council wanted to take him dwon from ruling because they thought he was a liar and a tyrant, but then King Davian came and showed them the Royal Passing, signed by both rulers. Settling back in his seat, Argoth then proceeded to share looks with the other ambassadors and rulers, a slight smile on his face.

Edited February 7, 2013 by SkullKrusher

[Thaelasan]

Early message? Davian was confused. It seemed, however, that everyone was here. At least, he hoped so. Sitting in silence was wasting valuable time.

"Greetings, fellow rulers. It has been a year since I gave you each your kingdoms, but now it is time for new rulers to join the fray, one of which being your avian friend here."

He gestured to Ariana, smiling.

"And another being your aquatic ally to my right."

He rose his hand, pleased, pointing at both of them.

"They have forged cities of their own, and they have been brave enough to come forth and represent their people as well as you each have. Though, I mourn the loss of the former Grun leader, I am pleased that you replaced him so admirably, Argoth. I have heard only good things from the North, and this bodes well for our futures. When I heard about his unfortunate death, I was worried that someone of ill intent would take the throne, but luckily it was a man tempered in war, which is what we truly need in these dark times.

I have called each of you because it is time to tell you all the truth of why I gave you each your kingdoms. I told you before that dark times were coming to Candor again, and it was true. Dark times are indeed heading for us, but darker than you have ever seen before now, and they will test your leadership to its fullest extent.

You may ask 'but King Davian, I am only beginning, how will I face such an onslaught which you must tell us of so gravely?' and I respond that I truly do not know. I had hoped this day would never come, but it is becoming increasingly apparent that the seal is breaking, the seal I forged with my own hand over a thousand years ago.

Yes, you know I have been king for a millenia. For some of you, I was king when your ancestors were working the land, and for others, I was king when you were already rulers in your own right. All of us are of different ancestry and species, but we are all united as a conglomerate of defense in Candor. Candor is our heart, our birthright, and our home, and you must know exactly what we face."

He clapped his hands silently. For a long while, nothing happened, and then from behind a curtain nearby a familiar mage appeared, looking quite less haggard. His face was still wisened, and his eyes still changed color, a myriad of rainbow-like hues.

"This, is my Grand Magi, and you will address him as such. This is one thing I will demand, because his name can never be spoken for fear of being discovered by the darkness I am telling you of today." the king spoke gravely, and the mage held up his hand.

"Allow me, Davian. I have waited for this day for longer than you have." the Grand Mage nodded, striding over to the other end of the table.

He rose his hands, his staff gleaming in the sun from the window. He began to chant, and soon, the lights began to dim. Stars flared up all around the room, and the universe was brought before their eyes. Upon the table, where they all sat, was a three dimensional sphere model of Candor, its two moons orbiting slowly like they were currently.

"This is your home." the mage stated. "This is where you were born. This is where all races have lived since before even I was in existence. I have watched it flourish since I was a boy when it was born, and I have guided kings and queens in order to defend it. This is my order. This is my creed.

Long ago, when the world was born, the Gods wanted to test the abilities of humans to resist vices and sin, because they wanted to see our purity. Many men and women succeeded the test, and our race was saved, but as a final test, two sisters were given a box of the sins of the world to defend with their lives. The Gods left the world, and all was good for a time.

But the Dark God, Ven, rose and spoke to one of the sisters, Elenora. He gave her the idea of treasure and gold within the box, and soon that began to possess her. Without warning, she murdered her sister in cold blood, and broke the seal on the box. From the box arose seven demon aspects of the seven sins, which influenced the mind, but then there were the demon aspects that affected the emotions.

There was Ranus, Aspect of Fear, the youngest. There was Baldor, Aspect of Hate. Thandal, Aspect of Depression. Vuthor, Aspect of Agony. Sandul, Aspect of War. And then, there was the strongest and eldest of the aspects, the wicked Graul, Aspect of Fury.

These demons feed upon negative emotions, and normally this would not be an issue. Yet, many years ago, my fears were realized when Baldor, aspect of Hate rose from the kingdom of Absth and almost crushed the world. I was forced to intervene, and my interevention cost me dearly. Baldor was sealed within me, and I carry him with me wherever I go. If I weaken or fall, Baldor's power will be released once more. I also slew Thandal, but he, too, was bound within me. I have become the new box for the demons to inhabit, and thus my soul is sought by the other Aspects, who wish to free their brothers and add to their own power. That is why I cannot speak my own name.

I have had to control my emotions for millenia, but my suffering is none of your concern. What you need to know is that a thousand years ago, your king, Davian, used his father's sword to impale the demon of fear, Ranus, and seal him into the abyss. The seal has held for years, but Ranus did not stay silent.

Graul learned of Ranus' seal, and he has been working for years to return. This is why you are here. He is finally going to bring the prophecy to fruition. He will destroy and enslave the world, he will release Ranus and devour him to get his power, and then he will search for the other aspects. When he finds me, he will kill me, and he will devour the souls within me, as well as my own. By eating my soul, he will gain power unknown, and become able to traverse time and space. He will become Ven once more, Ven incarnate, and travel the universe, becoming ever stronger, until he finally devours existence. We must stop him here."

The Mage held his staff, and the horrible visage of Graul appeared, a wicked creature with white eyes of evil, and malice pouring from his shadowy form.

"This is the face of your true foe. Forget any hatreds among your races, for he will feed upon it. This time, I may not help you defeat him, for if I take his soul within me, he shall devour the other two and still do what he was meant to do. No, heroes, you must kill him yourself, but you will not be alone. You will have Davian at your side, and your own kingdoms, and that is why you were chosen. Each of you will fufill your destinies and defeat Graul, thus ending Candor's curse and returning our world to what it once was. The sins of Elenora will be forgiven. We will be saved."

He coughed a moment, and then turned back to Davian.

"By the way, my lord, you did the right thing before."

"Did I? So they did?"

"Yes. Sadly."

"Alarming. Did you manage to send the notes?"

"Yes, in the other timeline."

"Good. Then perhaps we have a chance."

"We may only hope. I will take my leave milord." The mage swept up his robes and walked quietly out of the room, coughing.

Davian watched him go with grief, then turned to the kings and queens of the world.

"He did not tell you the full story, children. Our timeline may be the only one left." Davian said sadly. "The other one he and I had hoped for has failed, and our last resort is to finally tell you the full story, because if you fail the world is finally gone from all existence, including all time.

The Grand Mage is not just a mage, children. He IS the world, and not just its protector. When he was a child at the beginning of existence, he told the gods that he would take the responsibility of defending it in return for immortality and power unknown. He changes with the world and all of its seasons, and he accepts all of its sin. When he said that HE slew those demons, what he meant was that he took them within himself to save everyone else, and by doing so he corrupted not only his soul, but the soul of the world. He wants to find heroes who can slay Graul, and then he may finally exorcise the demons within his body so that they may be slain as well. Should you slay all the aspects, he will be purified, and will return to his young, powerful former form, and the world may truly begin to heal. He and the world are one and the same. He is pleading for your help. I did not choose you alone. He told me which ones he wanted."

He leaned forward, his face grave.

"We have told you what we need you to do, but you are not forced to do it. Should you wish to walk out of here right now, you may. This is your chance." Davian asked. "But remember that you may not have a kingdom to rule after this is over, should we fail."

[Lore_Master]

One by one, Logan watched as the representatives of the various races stood up, bowed and addressed themselves. He wanted to make sure that he did not screw up, considering this was his first meeting of such high caliber. Once there was a silence, he too got up and bowed slightly before King Davian. Once that was done, he covered his mouth with his fist and coughed to clear his throat.

 

"Logan Mithais, chosen representative for the human enclaves. We might be few in number, but we're willing to serve."

 

He said, looking at each representative before sitting back down. The wastes were not forgiving, he was only recently that he learned that a few other enclaves like his still existed within the wastes. Still, the king must have saw something in him that caused Logan to be chosen. The old man bend over slightly to reassure Logan that what he said was good, and shouldn't offend anyone. Bah, he could care less. All he wanted to go was get back home and finish his research, not rub shoulders with some fancy-pants members of the races.

 

Logan then watched as the King began to talk, he was bored out of his mind, but it was still important that he listened. But there was something that bugged him.

 

When did he get a kingdom?

 

That was the odd part, he had never heard of this before. He was just a normal person in his enclave, and then bam, here he was. He shook that thought out of his head as he contiuned to listen to the Grand Magi. When the Magi began to talk about the demons, he motioned a hand to his scholar to write everything down. With a nod, he did just that. He stared at the face Graul, expressing no emotion but a cold, hard glare.

 

"I can feel the power coming from it, even if its just a conjuration..."

 

He thought. If that demon was gonna attack and try to wipe out all life on this world, his kind wouldn't sit down without a fight. He was gonna make sure every man, woman and... gods forbid, child would be ready to fight to prevent the death of their whole race.

 

Once the Magi stopped speaking, he spoke of the Magi was essentially the soul of the world. And how he was corrupted by taking in the souls of the demons. And then, the question came up. Would he join them?

 

"My King"

 

Logan said, standing upwards to look the king dead in the eyes. His scholar was silently protesting his actions, but Logan merely blocked him out of his mind for the moment.

 

"If what you say is true... then either way, my kind will likely die off regardless if we choose to fight or not. But rest assured, we will not go quietly into the night. I pledge the support of humanity."

 

He said in the most seriously, stoic voice he could muster. Once that was all said and done, he sat back down before smiling at the old man, who quietly looked away in embarrassment. Logan then felt a metal hand touch his shoulder. He looked at Elise, she silently nodded, as if to say she too would be ready to fight to the death.

Edited February 8, 2013 by Lore_Master

[SkullKrusher]

Argoth listened to the story, his face going from calm to serious in a matter of seconds. The information the Magi told to everybody, including the Grun, cleared out the mysteries behind the note he got. Leaning into his chair, Argoth sighed and closed his eyes. He was thinking furiously. Fighting demon aspects - something practically unheard of. Yes, there were demons, but they were beings empowered just by a circle of people. A couple of paladins, trained in the ways of the light, could handle them quite easily. But when it came to an aspect demon, then there was much more difference. These demons were empowered by everyone and everything that had their aspects, and so they were extremely powerful. The only time Argoth had heard of anything close to an aspect demon was when a single demoness was found that had corrupted a large town, using it's power to slay an army which kept it safe for some other dark ruler to attack it with. He thinked of his respect to King Davian and the peaceful negotiations with the other nations, he thought about the future of the Gruns... he thought about everything his brain could comprehend. After a single breath, Argoth rose, his crimson cape moving behind him to stay on his back and his hands coming down on the table with minimal noise. He was ready, he was going to do this, a bright flame burned in his eyes as he spoke.

 

"My King, after hearing your and your Grand Magi's words, I, Argoth Skywing, as ruler of the Gruns and your loyal friend, hereby declare that we will support your cause. We are ready to fight for our world and lives, we are ready to support everybody with people, recourses and anything else that we have access to, and I, myself, am behind you until the end of this, sire, whether it be good or bad. I thank you for revealing us everything."

[Takhesis]

Ariana considered the Grand Mage's words, and the final piece of the puzzle clicked into place - the warning note that appeared was due to his workings. The potential of alternate realities was not lost on Ariana, after all the Elders said every action and decision, no matter how small, can have a big inpact on the world.

 

She also spoke to pledge her support to this cause.

 

"Although the Nephelisi are a peaceful race, we will also join in unison with our brethren races to cleanse the world of the demon aspects." She spoke carefully, her words selected with the consideration that was taught by the Elders of her race.

 

"The Nephelisi will concentrate on the wonders of healing and, with the other races permission, scout the skies above each kingdom for any approaching danger."

 

Ariana knew her race would balk at the thought of fighting a war, but she could convince them that a support role was necessary to the continued survival of the world.

 

"The borders of Windholme are open to all that need our aid in the oncoming storm."

[chicbecause]

Xiri listened, her face completely saddened yet serious. She stood after he finished speaking.

 

"This is grave news indeed, my King, I pledge to you the lives of my people. We will do everything in our power to protect this world from the demon threat." She said, she saluted him in her previous fashion.

 

"I will personally consult with the trees of Evengale, and request their assistance." She added.

 

The trees may not have been anything to the other races, but they were living beings of the forest. Despite their massive size they only spoke in whispers, only ones who listened for their whispers could hear them.

 

The elves were one of the only races who could understand the language of the forest. And the trees never forgot those that wronged them. Humans and other races would cut them down, slaughter them, then use their dead bodies as furnishings. And the trees did not forget easily, nor did they forgive. For this reason the trees had forbidden any other races from hearing their whispers.

Edited February 8, 2013 by chicbecause

[Astrodeath311]

Marcus Wright, owner of Castle Aquarius

 

"Marcus Wright, chosen representative of the Aquasals race, we may not be the best fighters but we can if it is necessary."

 

After Marcus introduced himself, he sat down with a heavy sigh. He ought to be fishing right now. Taking stock of the room, he observed that the chairs were made with the finest mahogany, likewise with the table. The floor was made of polished, beautiful marble, and he couldn't say that he didn't not feel a tinge of envy when he saw the magnificent banner of Candor. He looked down at the carpet under the grand table and felt it with his hands. It was a very fine, high-quality rug, woven expertly. It would fetch an amazing price to the right buyer on the market. Not that Marcus was thinking about taking it, of course. He was already wealthy. He passed his eyes over the people in the room. There were all of the species, except dragons. Himself, an Aquasals, Videre, an Elf, Logan, a Human and his accompanying entourage, Argoth, a Grun, Arianna, a Nephelisi, and the Dragonkin King, Davian Lendal. Marcus sighed. Why he was here, he did not know.

 

Once all of the representatives were introduced and seated, the king became to speak. Words flew articulately from his tongue, and he spoke about the many differences in species, and their obvious lack of experience. In fact, it seemed that the only one who was actually versed in war were the Grun representative and the King himself. That realization frightened Marcus, for if they didn't have a strong army, how could they even hope to stand against the coming evil? Marcus came back to reality when the King introduced a nameless Grand Magi. The Magi spoke to the king, then walked to a window then began to chant in an language unknown to Marcus. Shortly after, the room began to dim and stars appeared, suspended in mid-air. The Magi pointed to one in particular, and explained that that star was Candor, the one that they all were born and lived in. After explaining the star map, the Magi told a tale of the two sisters charged by the Gods to protect two boxes that contained all of the evil of the world. Sadly, the Dark God Ven came and spoke to one of the sisters, Elenora. Ven gave Elenora the idea of treasure and gold within the box, so Elenora opened it. Out of the box escaped the 7 deadly Demon Aspects, Fear, Hate, Depression, Agony, War, and the strongest as well as oldest of them all, Graul, the Aspect of Fury. The Magi explained that a thousand years ago, King Davian used his father's sword to impale the youngest of the Aspects, Fear, and threw him into the abyss. Fear stayed in the abyss for years, but Fear did not stay silent. Graul found out about Fear's seal, and has been working for many years to return. The Magi also explained that Graul would destroy and enslave the world, search for himself, and then devour the two Aspects the Magi hosted inside himself as well as the Magi himself. In doing this, Graul would gain the ability to traverse space and time, then become the God Ven. Then, Graul would traverse space, gaining enough power to eventually destroy existence. After all this, the Magi conjured up an image of Graul. Even though it was still a conjuration, Marcus started the breathe more heavily and his heart beat faster. Looking into those emotionless white eyes, Marcus felt that the Aspect of Fury was staring back. The Magi explained that the image he conjured was the true face of Graul, the foe they would have to defeat.

 

Marcus was deeply frightened at the tale. He stood, as the Human representative did, and said, "My King, our race is not the best in fighting. We are traders, not warriors. However, despite this fact, I on behalf of my race pledge our support in the war to come. Despite our weakness, we shall ride to battle alongside you, the Elves, Nephelisi, Grun, Humans, and Dragons, should they choose to accompany us. If this Graul is really as powerful as your Magi says, then we must recruit all of the help we can. In preparation, our people will try as best as we can to overflow your coffers with gold so that you may recruit as many soldiers as you need." Having spoke his piece, Marcus sat.

Edited February 8, 2013 by Astrodeath311

[Thaelasan]

Davian smiled broadly, nodding.

"As it seems most of you are in agreement, I hope that we shall indeed have enough to form a defense in due time. I shall prepare arrangements immediately for your kingdoms to flourish. Please, talk amongst yourselves while I am away."

Davian moved from his chair and walked back to his chambers to prepare his notes and writs for each of the kingdoms.

[Takhesis]

As King Davian left Ariana bowed again, in the manner she did before.

 

She then turned back to the council table and the other race representatives. As one of the newest there, she didn't feel it was her place to speak first, yet someone had to start the proverbial ball rolling.

 

"My peoples' knowledge and wisdom is free to all of you, as are our borders open should you need our aid." She didn't broach the subject of sky-scouts over their lands again, as that required a measure of trust that none may yet be ready to give.

 

She paused, long enough to pluck one flight feather from her wings, one per representative. These golden feathers she offered to the other leaders,

 

"Should you ever need our assistance, that feather will be the key. A messenger baring it will always find us. If the situation calls for it, and a messenger cannot be sent - the feather itself can be used to carry a message on the wind back to Windholme."

 

Nephelisi flight feathers were often sought after, simply for the fact they made durable quills. It was rare that a single Nephelisi would gift so many at the same time.