Spirits of Amarna: The Seven Shifters(IC Sign up in OOC)

[Tomia]

Amarna: Where Beasts Rule
The World of Amarna
Amarna is a place filled with mystery, adventure, and danger. Amarna is a very natural world, where humans are in touch with their surroundings. In the beginning of time, the Gods of Amarna granted their mortal subjects a very special gift. They began to create mortals that were gifted with spirit animals. This allowed humankind to transform into the animal that they were tied to. they also granted power over the elements, giving humans the power to control various aspects of nature. As humanity grew they began to form tribes, and finally kingdoms. These kingdoms were often based around their natural environments, and the shifters that founded them. The Gods also granted another gift to humans, though many consider this a curse. They created what are called "Moities", which means "half" in the ancient language. These humans have the ability to change into humanoid creatures with certain aspects of an animal. No one knows why the Gods created these creatures, but they are very rare and often discriminated against.
The kingdoms of Amarna had been at relative peace for centuries until known as "The Invasion". The Invasion started in the year 781 when the kingdom of Venicia enacted a plan to conquer the world. For over a decade before the invasion, the ruling family of Venicia, the Medici, had been building up it's military in secret. Once the invasion started they took the other kingdoms by surprise and won many quick victories, conquering large amounts of territory. The kingdom grew even stronger as it established colonies in its newly acquired territory and used them to feed it's war machine. The other countries were slow to react to the attack, but have now began to organize themselves to defend against the onslaught. Despite this, Venicia is a clear threat to the world. Not only do they have a powerful army, but the king of Venicia has discovered a dark secret. He has found a way to distort and corrupt spirit animals, turning those with bat spirits to vampires, and those with wolf spirits to werewolves. While things may look bleak, there is reason to hope. An ancient prophecy tells of seven chosen shifters, who will unite and save the world. An order of warrior monks have recently formed known as "The Servants of the Chosen", who believe that this is the time of which the prophecy foretold, and that only the chosen seven can save the world.

[Tomia]

First Day of Spring, 785
Marik Orson
It was a bright and sunny day in the colony of Nobela. The air was hot and dry, like it often was in former Ontalo territories in the spring and summer. Nobela was one of the many colonies that were conquered by the Venician Invasion. What had once been a free and peaceful community had been turned into a police state. Guards could often be seen on the streets and the locals were conscripted into the Venician military and labor force. Marik Orson hated Venicia, they had stolen his life from him. He had once lived a quiet life as the son of a farmer before his land and family were taken from him by the military. He was rescued however by a former Ontalo general named Uzar. It was him who trained Marik to be a warrior, so that he could avenge his family’s death. Currently Marik was doing his best to help the people of Nobela. Their lives were hard and he did his best to steal food for them, and protect them from abusive guards. He was frustrated that he couldn’t do more; he wanted to really change things. Marik’s spirit animal was the lion, which was very unusual, especially where he was from. He hid it for that reason, as the Venician soldiers often captured powerful shifters to force them to fight for their kingdom. Marik pushed that from his thoughts and headed down the streets of the colony. He had created a secret storage of food that he distributed to the poor people across the villages.
Aurora Aurelis
Aurora was currently traveling through a small village in Wrotland, continuing her frantic search for the Chosen. Aurora was the leader of the Servants of the Chosen and was nearly obsessed with finding the fabled heroes. Aurora’s life as a princess of Alendra seemed far behind her. Now her days were spent traveling through the wilderness and sleeping taverns, or caves if she couldn’t find a room. I have to find them. I will find them. Aurora thought to herself as she sat at a table in atavern. She was looking over a map of the continent wondering where to search next. She felt almost frantic, she needed to find the chosen before it was too late.

[Pinki3 Pon-3]

Balanell Torchfoot
Bal walked into the tavern just behind Aurora, he had been delayed somewhat by an offending vagrant who was now nursing some heavy bruising. The prince of Kasai was enjoying this journey so far. It was nice to be out of the castle. Away from his father. He sat down across from Aurora and whistled to get the attention of a serving girl,
"A cider if you would miss."
He said cheerfully and turned back to look at the map,
"Well, how many places have we checked so far milady?"
He said watching the seemingly frazzled Aurora.
"Can only be so many places left right? Bound to find them soon enough."
He said and took a draught of his cider from the mug which likely housed an entirely new eco system of bacteria.

Rocco Calvetti
Rocco walked pensively through the gardens of his family estate. The mottled shade from the path of trees granted a reprieve from the sun. Rocco paused for a while, enjoying the lethargy that seeped in due to the cold. His usually sharp, alert senses dulled by the drop in body temperature. He walked further before taking a seat on a bench in the sunlight. He had no doubt there would soon be a need for action. The Venician war machine had upset many, the fallout was unavoidable and usually came with riots, anarchists and subverts. Rocco looked forward to meeting the next. The next revolutionary preaching freedom and independence amongst the colonies. The next body that would grow colder than his own. The next victim of his venomous bite, the next enemy of Venicia that would fall, not for Guilano but for this glorious state.

[Nuridia]

First Day of Spring, 785: Palazzo di Pinti, Medici Palace

Isotta de Medici
Princess Isotta was in her workshop, a place where she spent the majority of her time nowadays. As the daughter of the King of Venicia, she had whatever a girl could ask for at her disposal and she often put it to use on her inventions and she liked to make things. It was a distraction from the pain she had felt for nearly a year now, and as she worked on the model of the globe she was making a thought went into her mind. Her father was wrong, how could he have changed so quickly? King Giuliano was annexing territories and on some insane and deranged quest to conquer all of Amarna, and was preaching to their people that this was righteous. He had tainted the family name, many hated the Medici but it wasn't like Isotta could blame them. On top of that, their people believed it was good like Isotta did once, but she stopped after he had conquered a peaceful kingdom and...that was a story she didn't like to talk about, her hands became still as it came into her mind. Her long golden hair was caught up in a gold hairnet studded with diamonds, and her round pale face reddened and scrunched up a bit as she felt tears come to her eyes. Her father had to be stopped, and that was final. She got so sad upon seeing her father sometimes though that she would often take her meals in her room alone, barely coming down to eat with the rest of the family anymore and only showing up occasionally for her mother or her siblings' sakes.

Petronella Sforza
"Sotta?" a voice interrupted the princess from her sad thoughts, she turned tear filled eyes toward the door of her private room and saw one of the few people who could make her smile during these times where she became sad. Her older cousin, Petronella Sforza walked in, her long black hair and dark olive skin a deep contrast to Isotta's pale blonde looks. There was a dazzling white grin on Petra's face and Isotta briefly wondered how she managed to keep her spirits so high with the hard life that she had. Petra was a Moitie, a partial shifter and couldn't completely transform into her spirit animal. They were oddities and people often looked down on them, even their own parents. It was rare that one got to see the soft side to this abrasive personality. "Hey Petra." Isotta managed weakly, hugging her cousin. Petra knew why Isotta was so sad, it wasn't something that a lot of people knew but didn't talk about. "You were thinking about Giovanni again, weren't you?" Petronella touched the amethyst studded gold locket around Isotta's neck. It held a face that it tore her apart to look on, her lover Giovanni. He was a young Mendoza nobleman and he and the princess fell in love, making plans to get married. But unfortunately, her father surprised them together in her room and the young man was killed in her arms. Isotta still hated Giuliano for that but still loved him as a father. "Don't let his death be in vain, that's why there's the Pulse." "You started it for him." Isotta's secret group was the Pulse, an underground rebel sect that opposed Giovanni. "I miss him so much, it's all my fault." "I shouldn't have asked him to visit me that night." "I killed him." Isotta sobbed, wiping her eyes on one of her embroidered blue silk sleeves. "Your father killed him with a sword." "You didn't kill him." "Now come on, your mother wants you at breakfast." Petronella said firmly, leading Isotta out of the room while Isotta tried to maintain her composure.

Caterina de Medici
The Queen of Venicia was sitting in her chair at the banquet table waiting for her niece to bring her eldest daughter down while watching her other children. Thirteen year old Cesare was a hyperactive and exuberant child with a shock of reddish blonde hair and dreamed of being a warrior. The blonde, ten year old Lucrezia was playing with her seven month old brother Paolo, who looked nearly like Giovanni in every way except he had his mother's soft green eyes and round rosy cheeks. Lucrezia lifted Paolo up and brought him gently down on his feet before doing it again. Nine year old Leonardo was in the corner reading like he usually did, his blue-green eyes scanning the words under gold-rimmed glasses, a breeze from the window blew his light auburn hair gently in the wind. Caterina couldn't help but smile at her happy family, it reminded her of what used to be. It used to be like this all the time before Giuliano changed. He was a handsome young prince and she the youngest daughter of noble clergymen of the Donati family. They were both young but hit it off right away, they got married and Caterina had Isotta at seventeen. It was clear to the world that the couple adored each other and their children, but then something started to change about the king. Her younger children were blissfully ignorant for the most part but unfortunately Isotta knew, from firsthand experience. Poor Giovanni, it broke Caterina's heart to hear her daughter's anguished screams echo through the Palazzo for months after the execution. Giuliano, her king and husband wanted to expand the empire so he started taking kingdoms and annexing them. Caterina saw the folly in this and begged him to stop, but he didn't and went off on his Invasion anyway. The queen's grief at this almost cost her own life and her youngest son's life as she was pushed into early labor those months ago and even when Paolo was born alive the doctors didn't expect him to live but thanks to his mother's knowledge of healing the prince recovered. That man didn't know how much he broke their hearts most of the time. Caterina nearly gave up hope until she heard about the Servants of the Chosen from a visiting woman named Aurora and hopeful at this possibility to save her family and world the queen secretly joined hoping to find the Chosen and bring the world back to where it belongs.

[Romisch Palatine]

Luke, The Third Count Palatine of Rhougne

The sun was shining over the small country. The benevolent rays of the almighty making the Rhougne River shine and twinkle. Abundant in fish that pierced the surface with their fins. Jumping up small waterfall's from one to the next as the valley slowly rose into the hills. The flowers were blooming over the merchant town of Rhougne. The tanner's and the tailors were busy in their shops. While the merchants from all over the continent, even a few from Wrotland and Ontalo, and a few from the newly acquired colonies.

It was a happy day in the County Palatine for the population of mostly Fire Elementals, descendants of the Tiger and Phoenix clan. Their red hair had was distinct from any other part of Venicia. The name of the family that ruled this County, appropriately so was Rotbart, meaning Red beard. Their leader was Luke, The Third Count Palatine of Rhougne. Though his village was happy. He was not. Though he tried to be happy, for it was indeed a lovely day and their was much joy.

Within ten minutes he would leave and been torn from his family for three months. With the stalling of the Venician War Machine and the unpopularity of the King, he was to once again resume his mantle as Captain of the Guard. He was feared within the palace for his leadership of the infamous "Guard" which were both the King's bodyguards and the King's secret police. He had for twelve years lead them with a strict but just discipline. But after two years of paid leave he was to return, in the midst of one of the biggest crisis in the Venician court.

He was due to leave, giving his wife, Countess Palatine Ingrid, who was his Regent, his daughter Sofia, his daughter Marie, and his son Fredrick all hugs and kisses. As he departed he waved goodbye, wondering if it really would be three months until he saw them.

The king was going insane, though he had at first supported the war, but now after witnessing the murder of Isotta's lover he was unsure. He had been away, but through his sources at court he had heard of the Pulse, a rebel faction. He was interested, and new he would be appreciated in the Pulse. He was opposed to the King, though he would still serve as his Captain, he would do whatever he could to slow the advance of the War machine.

He arrived a day later. After he and his servants had unpacked his things, he entered into his private chambers. Which included a bedroom, an office, and a living room. After unpacking things he went to the courtyard and inspected the Guards that were currently there. Though their were a few other operatives around the country. He had about 75 men. After inspection he crossed the hall until he found the door he was looking for. He knocked.

"Isotta?"

Livia Exiatica

The forest was quite, the lush pines coated the mountainside in a soft blanket. The ground was covered with a carpet of needles, silencing any noise made by foot. A dense fog rolled over the side of the mountain, reducing visibility. But for the experienced Livia this was no fret, for she had done this before. She sat perched on a stone. Below her was a marsh that had once been the site of a battle between the Kingdoms of Wrotland and Venicia.

She could still see pike were a tattered yellow, black and white flag of Wrotland flew. The skulls of the fallen Wrotlander warrior littered the marsh, some half submerged in the bogs. The battle had been a victory for the Venician, like most had been in these parts. The Wrotlanders had been unable to fight the powerful Venician war machine. They had cleared through these lands like the fog that was rolling over the forests. They were followed by the Pionirso, or settlers as her people called them.

They had pushed the Wrotlanders out of their towns and taken up residency. Oh how she despised the Venician elite, imperialists, expansionists, supremacists. She didn't mind the people themselves, heck once this whole war was over she would like to take up residence in Rhougne, a beautiful little valley town, made up of Fire Elementals like herself, situated in the beautiful Rhougne Valley.

She heard what she had been listening for. With one swift motion she grabbed an arrow and shot it from her bow, piercing the side of her prey. She jumped from the rock and grabbed her fallen victim. A beautiful red fox, the third one she had found today. She placed them in her bag at her side, then started heading to the north. Just over the border of Wrotland, where the was one town which the Venicians had not marched into yet.

She got their in three days, after skinning them, cleaning them and drying them she sold two foxes for a few gold coins, that would get her through the following weeks. The last one she kept for herself, using it to patch up her coat which was a mix of different types of furs. Pitching her camp just outside the town, and she ventured into the little town. Seeing the tavern, she entered. And took a booth next to a young man and a women. A barmaid came.

"Please get me a Rhougner Ale. I need it."

[Nuridia]

Luke, The Third Count Palatine of Rhougne

The sun was shining over the small country. The benevolent rays of the almighty making the Rhougne River shine and twinkle. Abundant in fish that pierced the surface with their fins. Jumping up small waterfall's from one to the next as the valley slowly rose into the hills. The flowers were blooming over the merchant town of Rhougne. The tanner's and the tailors were busy in their shops. While the merchants from all over the continent, even a few from Wrotland and Ontalo, and a few from the newly acquired colonies.

It was a happy day in the County Palatine for the population of mostly Fire Elementals, descendants of the Tiger and Benu clan. Their red hair had was distinct from any other part of Venicia. The name of the family that ruled this County, appropriately so was Rotbart, meaning Red beard. Their leader was Luke, The Third Count Palatine of Rhougne. Though his village was happy. He was not. Though he tried to be happy, for it was indeed a lovely day and their was much joy.

Within ten minutes he would leave and been torn from his family for three months. With the stalling of the Venician War Machine and the unpopularity of the King, he was to once again resume his mantle as Captain of the Guard. He was feared within the palace for his leadership of the infamous "Guard" which were both the King's bodyguards and the King's secret police. He had for twelve years lead them with a strict but just discipline. But after two years of paid leave he was to return, in the midst of one of the biggest crisis in the Venician court.

He was due to leave, giving his wife, Countess Palatine Ingrid, who was his Regent, his daughter Sofia, his daughter Marie, and his son Fredrick all hugs and kisses. As he departed he waved goodbye, wondering if it really would be three months until he saw them.

The king was going insane, though he had at first supported the war, but now after witnessing the murder of Isotta's lover he was unsure. He had been away, but through his sources at court he had heard of the Pulse, a rebel faction. He was interested, and new he would be appreciated in the Pulse. He was opposed to the King, though he would still serve as his Captain, he would do whatever he could to slow the advance of the War machine.

He arrived a day later. After he and his servants had unpacked his things, he entered into his private chambers. Which included a bedroom, an office, and a living room. After unpacking things he went to the courtyard and inspected the Guards that were currently there. Though their were a few other operatives around the country. He had about 75 men. After inspection he crossed the hall until he found the door he was looking for. He knocked.

"Isotta?"

"She's not there, the Princess has gone to breakfast with her family." a lady in waiting who was carrying linens told Luke as he knocked. She was merely passing by, having coppery hair instead of the bright red of the Rhougne population The Queen's mother had red hair too but wasn't born in Rhougne herself which is why Caterina's hair was dark red. "Lady Sforza is leading her down to the breakfast hall now Master Rothbart, with any luck maybe you can catch them before they meet up with the king." "They don't much like their family time interrupted." the young attendant spoke before hurrying away.

[Romisch Palatine]

Luke, The Third Count Palatine of Rhougne

The sun was shining over the small country. The benevolent rays of the almighty making the Rhougne River shine and twinkle. Abundant in fish that pierced the surface with their fins. Jumping up small waterfall's from one to the next as the valley slowly rose into the hills. The flowers were blooming over the merchant town of Rhougne. The tanner's and the tailors were busy in their shops. While the merchants from all over the continent, even a few from Wrotland and Ontalo, and a few from the newly acquired colonies.

It was a happy day in the County Palatine for the population of mostly Fire Elementals, descendants of the Tiger and Benu clan. Their red hair had was distinct from any other part of Venicia. The name of the family that ruled this County, appropriately so was Rotbart, meaning Red beard. Their leader was Luke, The Third Count Palatine of Rhougne. Though his village was happy. He was not. Though he tried to be happy, for it was indeed a lovely day and their was much joy.

Within ten minutes he would leave and been torn from his family for three months. With the stalling of the Venician War Machine and the unpopularity of the King, he was to once again resume his mantle as Captain of the Guard. He was feared within the palace for his leadership of the infamous "Guard" which were both the King's bodyguards and the King's secret police. He had for twelve years lead them with a strict but just discipline. But after two years of paid leave he was to return, in the midst of one of the biggest crisis in the Venician court.

He was due to leave, giving his wife, Countess Palatine Ingrid, who was his Regent, his daughter Sofia, his daughter Marie, and his son Fredrick all hugs and kisses. As he departed he waved goodbye, wondering if it really would be three months until he saw them.

The king was going insane, though he had at first supported the war, but now after witnessing the murder of Isotta's lover he was unsure. He had been away, but through his sources at court he had heard of the Pulse, a rebel faction. He was interested, and new he would be appreciated in the Pulse. He was opposed to the King, though he would still serve as his Captain, he would do whatever he could to slow the advance of the War machine.

He arrived a day later. After he and his servants had unpacked his things, he entered into his private chambers. Which included a bedroom, an office, and a living room. After unpacking things he went to the courtyard and inspected the Guards that were currently there. Though their were a few other operatives around the country. He had about 75 men. After inspection he crossed the hall until he found the door he was looking for. He knocked.

"Isotta?"

"She's not there, the Princess has gone to breakfast with her family." a lady in waiting who was carrying linens told Luke as he knocked. She was merely passing by, having coppery hair instead of the bright red of the Rhougne population The Queen's mother had red hair too but wasn't born in Rhougne herself which is why Caterina's hair was dark red. "Lady Sforza is leading her down to the breakfast hall now Master Rothbart, with any luck maybe you can catch them before they meet up with the king." "They don't much like their family time interrupted." the young attendant spoke before hurrying away.

Luke

"I see, thank you."

Once the lady in waiting had disappeared down the hall. He broke off in a run down the other hallway towards where the lady had directed him. He could see them near the end of the hall, as he neared them he slowed to a walk, shifting the weight onto the balls of his feet to soften his step.

He approached Isotta and the Lady Sforza from behind. Since they were heading off to breakfast he expected he could not talk to her about the pulse.

"Hello Lady de Medici and Lady Sforza."

"I expect you don't have much time to chat, since you will be heading to dine with your family, but when will your father be off. I have much to discuss with him and I have not been able to as late."

He lied openly through his teeth, he expected Isotta knew, she most likely knew his real intentions, before he had left for Rhougne he had told her of his support for her cause, he needed to converse with her about the current situation, and fast.

[Nuridia]

Isotta had managed to compose herself enough to walk on her own although Petra kept an arm around her waist. The princess' eyes and face were still reddened but she looked fierce and collected because of it. Hearing footsteps behind her she turned around and saw Luke Rotbart, the Lord of the Rhougne Palatine. He was one of her most powerful supporters, secretly of course but a supporter nonetheless. He was one of the few who knew about the Pulse but Isotta had received a letter before from him asking to join. "Lord Palatine Rotbart." Isotta said in as even a tone as she could manage. Luke was one of the witnesses to Giovanni's murder and the sight of him reminded her of that day but she needed to be strong. She quickly got onto his true intentions. "I don't have much time to speak to you, they will be looking for me." "But Father will be at breakfast will us, you should join us if you want to speak with him because that's when he's his most talkative." "And after breakfast you and I will speak privately." Isotta twirled the silver ring around her finger as she spoke. Two mermaids were carved around the sides and their hands joined to hold a single pearl in the middle. It was her engagement ring, the one Giovanni had proposed to her with and her family was surprised that she still publicly wore it.

[Tomia]

Aurora
Aurora chuckled at her traveling companion's question. "About a hundred thousand" She joked wearily. "They have to be out there somewhere. I just pray to the gods that we find them before Venicia does." Aurora wondered how her spy in Bellaluci was doing. She had recently sent her a letter requesting information about her husband's battle plans. They had found a secret spot where they would send ravens to communicate.
Alan Herthan
Alan stood by as the royal family sat down for breakfast. He was glad that they seemed mostly happy, considering the circumstance. Expect for Isotta, he knew that despite her cheer and flirty front she was going though a hard time. Issota was Alan's best friend and they had grown up together. She was one of the few among those in court who treated him as more than a servant. He was completely loyal to Isotta and as a often by her side. Because of her flirtatious Marie some even started a stupid rumor that she had ordered him to share her bed. Alan often got into fights if that rumor was spread in his presence. He knew Isotta would never do anything like that to him. She had sometimes tried to seduce him a few times but when he refused she always understood. It wasn't that he didn't have feelings for his friend, but he felt he would be betraying his oath and the princess' trust if he accepted her offers. He had wanted to be the one to fetch Isotta but her cousin volunteered so he simply waited in he dinning hall for her.
King Giuliano
The King of Venicia left his office that morning to join his family in the dinning room. Giulano was planning more expansion soon, and his army would make large advancements soon. He knew that some saw what he was doing as wrong, but Giuliano knew it was necessary. He was going to build a world of peace and paradise even if force was needed to create it. If he needed to be hated by some, so be it. It was a worthy sacrifice to ensure the welfare of his family and country. Giuliano may have had his faults, but he loved his family more than anything. He knew his daughter Isotta was angry about the incident between them, but he was sure se would get over it eventually. She needed to learn how rulers need to act, and make tough choices. For a while the war drew him away from his family but his wife's accident brought him back. He had returned to his caring and kind self, at least around his family. He did everything he could to make sure they were happy, and spent as much time with them as he could. He entered the dinning hall and smiled at his family who were sitting together. He ruffled Cesare's hair as he walked past him and then saw Lucrezia playing with young Pablo. He kissed Lucrezia's forehead and tickled the young Pablo gently before taking his place at his wife's side. "Good morning my love" He said affectionately, kissing her as taking her hand gently. He had become very attentive to his wife since her premature birth. He had felt terrible for leaving her to fight and now wanted to attend to her every need.

[Krytonus]

Alduin's Tailors, Capital of Wrotland
First Day of Spring, 785

Rory's eyes opened and he squinted in the faint light of his bedroom. He sat up in his bed, gazing out the frost-covered window. It was Spring, as the merry townfolk continuously reminded him as they were fitted for new clothes, but as always in Wrotland, the changing of the seasons brought nothing but disappointment and cold. He quickly checked the makeshift schedule he had hastily put up on the wall and clambered out of bed, cursing as he smacked hid head against the shelf. A few books fell onto his lap and he piled them back on with an absent mind, rubbing his forehead and grumbling. It was too early. He clambered out of his bed, laying his feet onto the cold floorboards, quickly adjusting his position so they rested on the fur rug. There was an awful taste in his mouth and he had a crick in his neck. How was that possible? He was fifteen! He shouldn't have to worry about neck-pains. He dressed in his regular clothes, but shrugged on his winter coat too. Grabbing his keys, a few loose coins and some slightly-crumpled paper covered in designs for everything from metalwork to clothes, he made his way downstairs, the creaky floorboards groaning beneath him every step, the cold seeping into his feet. grumbling, he tossed a few logs into the stove and quickly lit it with his tinderbox. He placed a kettle of water on the top and sat down to a breakfast consisting of a roll of slightly stale bread and some cheese. He spent a few minutes sitting there, contemplating his little life before realising the kettle had boiled and he was wasting time. He quickly poured himself a mug of hot water, adding in a few tea leaves he'd bought earlier in the week and milk. He took a sip, sighed, and got to work.

[The Starlight]

Dallen Thomsen

The young king of Acrea, Land of the Forest, sat sitting on his beautifully wooden crafted throne. He had made it himself, singing to the wood, making it bend and yield in ways otherwise not possible. It was perfect for him, being the correct height and was slightly curved to add more comfort. However, as he leaned forward towards the map of Amarna on his table, his crown of wood, vines and berries slipped forward with him, until he adjusted. He focused his attention on the map again. The kingdom of Venicia had gobbled up many nations, and its borders were creeping ever closer, to the peaceful forest of Acrea, though the two kingdoms remained hundreds of miles from each other. They would not be able to hold the Venicians long if it came to that, and Dallen feared that Acrea would burn. But he intended to see that that did not happen. He walked out to the balcony of his wooden tree palace, looking over the expanses of the tall forest. Everything that they had, Acrea had given to them. This was their home. They in return chopped no wood, instead using their powers over nature to bend wood to its desired shape. And what wood they took, they easily replaced. It was so beautiful and peaceful here, the birds chirping a melody at the break of dawn, the glistening of apples at high noon, and the beautiful sunsets at dusk. But that peace had been broken. The forest now clanged and trembled with the preparation for war, for it was inevitably coming, sooner or later. In order to survive Venicia's conquests, they had to ally with neighboring kingdoms. It was better to fight and die together than alone. Dallen commanded for emissaries to be sent to nearby kingdoms, calling a Council of the Free Kingdoms of Amarna. This was the only way, Dallen thought to himself, as he leaped out of the balcony, shifting into a squirrel just before he smashed into a tree, agilely scampering his way to the treetops, from which he looked around, flinching at the glare of the sun. Yes, it was the only way.

[Romisch Palatine]

Isotta had managed to compose herself enough to walk on her own although Petra kept an arm around her waist. The princess' eyes and face were still reddened but she looked fierce and collected because of it. Hearing footsteps behind her she turned around and saw Luke Rotbart, the Lord of the Rhougne Palatine. He was one of her most powerful supporters, secretly of course but a supporter nonetheless. He was one of the few who knew about the Pulse but Isotta had received a letter before from him asking to join. "Lord Palatine Rotbart." Isotta said in as even a tone as she could manage. Luke was one of the witnesses to Giovanni's murder and the sight of him reminded her of that day but she needed to be strong. She quickly got onto his true intentions. "I don't have much time to speak to you, they will be looking for me." "But Father will be at breakfast will us, you should join us if you want to speak with him because that's when he's his most talkative." "And after breakfast you and I will speak privately." Isotta twirled the silver ring around her finger as she spoke. Two mermaids were carved around the sides and their hands joined to hold a single pearl in the middle. It was her engagement ring, the one Giovanni had proposed to her with and her family was surprised that she still publicly wore it.

"Excellent. Are you sure your father won't mind?"

This was a perfect opportunity to gain some insight onto the King's plan. While the King didn't necessarily trust his daughter anymore, he would certainly provide him with some valuable information that the Pulse could use. She saw her touch her ring. It was the engagement ring Giovanni had given to her. He had quite liked Giovanni, a pity he never made it to see his wedding day. He would have made an excellent Seargent of the Guards.

He looked at the Lady Sforza. He didn't no if Petra was with them or not. He would ask Isotta later. It would be a shame if she wasn't, he quite liked Petra. If he recalled she had never liked the expansionist policies, and was fairly sure she supported the pulse.

He never liked eliminating people, but as leader of the Guard for over a decade he had been required to do this numerous times before. He had issued death warrants for some very powerful people, including a top general who had gone rogue. Tonight he might have to purge the Guard of powerful rivals. He had never have to before, but this was a new set of circumstances. And he had to react a whole new different way.

[Nuridia]

Aurora
Aurora chuckled at her traveling companion's question. "About a hundred thousand" She joked wearily. "They have to be out there somewhere. I just pray to the gods that we find them before Venicia does." Aurora wondered how her spy in Bellaluci was doing. She had recently sent her a letter requesting information about her husband's battle plans. They had found a secret spot where they would send ravens to communicate.
Alan Herthan
Alan stood by as the royal family sat down for breakfast. He was glad that they seemed mostly happy, considering the circumstance. Expect for Isotta, he knew that despite her cheer and flirty front she was going though a hard time. Issota was Alan's best friend and they had grown up together. She was one of the few among those in court who treated him as more than a servant. He was completely loyal to Isotta and as a often by her side. Because of her flirtatious Marie some even started a stupid rumor that she had ordered him to share her bed. Alan often got into fights if that rumor was spread in his presence. He knew Isotta would never do anything like that to him. She had sometimes tried to seduce him a few times but when he refused she always understood. It wasn't that he didn't have feelings for his friend, but he felt he would be betraying his oath and the princess' trust if he accepted her offers. He had wanted to be the one to fetch Isotta but her cousin volunteered so he simply waited in he dinning hall for her.
King Giuliano
The King of Venicia left his office that morning to join his family in the dinning room. Giulano was planning more expansion soon, and his army would make large advancements soon. He knew that some saw what he was doing as wrong, but Giuliano knew it was necessary. He was going to build a world of peace and paradise even if force was needed to create it. If he needed to be hated by some, so be it. It was a worthy sacrifice to ensure the welfare of his family and country. Giuliano may have had his faults, but he loved his family more than anything. He knew his daughter Isotta was angry about the incident between them, but he was sure se would get over it eventually. She needed to learn how rulers need to act, and make tough choices. For a while the war drew him away from his family but his wife's accident brought him back. He had returned to his caring and kind self, at least around his family. He did everything he could to make sure they were happy, and spent as much time with them as he could. He entered the dinning hall and smiled at his family who were sitting together. He ruffled Cesare's hair as he walked past him and then saw Lucrezia playing with young Pablo. He kissed Lucrezia's forehead and tickled the young Pablo gently before taking his place at his wife's side. "Good morning my love" He said affectionately, kissing her as taking her hand gently. He had become very attentive to his wife since her premature birth. He had felt terrible for leaving her to fight and now wanted to attend to her every need.

Queen Caterina couldn't help but smile when Giuliano walked into the dining hall to join his family. Around them, even though the truth of his expansion hurt her heart she loved her husband very much still and sometimes regretted joining the Servants against him. What I'm doing is for the good of the kingdom and the world. is what she had to think to herself to keep her going, especially since the newest letter she got from Aurora. Like all the letters from the Servants of the Chosen it was burned immediately after reading but she remembered its contents. Cesare grinned when his father ruffled his hair, Lucrezia smiled when he kissed her forehead and baby Paolo laughed when his father tickled him.

"Hello Papa." Leonardo said to Giuliano, looking up from his book to give a small smile to his father. He was so quiet that he sometimes went unnoticed and the young prince preferred it that way. "Papa, how was your work today?" Lucrezia asked cheerfully to her father. Caterina kissed her husband back and squeezed his hand when he took hers. Cesare made a face and pointed at his throat when he saw his parents kiss, making his younger sister laugh. Giuliano was so much more attentive to his queen since she nearly lost Paolo. "Good morning my dearest, I am well." Caterina said. "And you?" "You're always working Giuliano, you should take some air once and a while." "Being cooped up all the time is unhealthy." she said with concern. "Has anybody seen Isotta?" Leonardo asked about his sister. He and Isotta were the closest out of the five royal children because their intellects were so similar. "Poor 'Sotta, she's probably taking breakfast in her room again." "We hardly see her anymore!" Lucrezia said in that dramatic way of hers, putting a hand to her forehead like she would faint.

Isotta heard talking in the dining hall and knew she had to leave. "I don't think he will mind, Papa is like that with those he trusts you know." "I have to leave you now, goodbye." Isotta said, curtsying to Luke and standing just at the edge of the doorway to the dining hall against a dark wall. She saw her younger siblings and couldn't help but smile a little. "I miss the way that things used to be Petra." "I guess we have to go in then." the princess whispered. "We?!" "I have nothing to say to King Giuliano that won't earn me a quarrel with him plus a few lashes." Petra whispered back, turning on her heel but Isotta stopped her. "Please Petronella, it's hard for me to face Father by myself these days." "I love him, gods know I do but I can't forgive Giovanni, I never will." the blonde said looking down at her shoes. "I can't, please don't leave me alone!" "Look at my face, he'll see I was crying." Isotta whispered pleadingly. Petra sighed. "Fine, but only because you're my favorite cousin." "And besides, you wouldn't be alone because you have Alan." Petra pointed out. Isotta looked in the dining hall and saw her best friend Alan standing there and gave a wide smile. He had been at her side for as long as she could remember, they were joined at the hip and she cared for him immensely although her attempts to seduce him embarrassed him and were becoming awkward they always understood each other and made up in the end. They became awkward to the point that Isotta all but gave up trying to seduce him a while ago but it was still fun to tease him from time to time. "Well we can't have you going out with tear face, makeup check." Petronella pulled out the little case she carried around with her that contained Isotta's makeup. The buxom, curvaceous blonde liked to look nice even though she was a natural beauty. Although the were trying to cover up tear streaks and redness now. Petra dipped a brush into a pot of skin tone makeup and applied it to Isotta's cheeks and under her eyes, and then went for the rouge for the redness in her face and lips but Caterina had heard her eldest in the background and was concerned for her although they couldn't see her.

"Isotta, come out and have breakfast with us dear instead of hiding in the shadows." "We've missed you as of late, you hardly dine with us anymore." Caterina continued. Isotta swore under her breath. "Your makeup's not done, not even all the way blended in and you can still see the tear spots." Petra warned. "Fuck the makeup, I have to go in now." Isotta sighed and walked into the dining hall, curtsying to her parents and walking over to her siblings with a smile who all rushed up to hug her especially Leo. Lucrezia had left baby Paolo sitting on the floor and after hugging her siblings back Isotta picked up her youngest brother who babbled happily to see her. Isotta smiled and kissed Paolo's forehead, placing him on her hip gently and waving to her friend Alan as she looked for a seat to take.

[Nachfolgia]

Faylinn Sforza, Medici Palace, First day of Spring, 785

Faylinn was sitting in the parlor of Medici palace waiting for her sister. For some reason, her sister Petra wanted to talk to her cousin Princess Isotta alone. She figured it was none of her business what they talked about in private. She still wasn't pleased that she had to wait, however, she was used to this kind of treatment. Being the adopted daughter of the House Sforza, Faylinn didn't get the same kind of love the rest of her siblings got. It was very clear that she was adopted, her looks and even her mannerisms were contrast of the Sforza. She was much paler than her siblings, had blonde hair and piercing blue eyes. She wasn't atuned to the etiquette of a noble house. Even her fighting style were different. Even though she trained with a sword and shield, Faylinn found herself drawn to the war axe, which no Venician used. Faylinn always figured that she just came from a poor Venician family who had a farm in the countryside. She never visited this so called "farm" because her adopted father told her that her family was dead.

Faylinn was bored and was getting more agitated from the waiting. She skipped a training day to visit their cousin who insisted that Faylinn be there. She didn't like staying indoors and she didn't like wearing fancy dresses that she was forced to wear. She hated how they restricted her movement and made it hard to breath. She'd much rather be in the courtyard of their mansion training for the upcoming war. Venicia had been mobilizing troops and expanding the borders against the other kingdoms. Faylinn wanted to be ready to defend the kingdom. As she sat there, Faylinn glanced down that the small table that was in front of her. The servents had brought trays of fruit and pastries for her to consume while she waited. Faylinn didn't pay much attention to the food that was in front of her. She was much more interested in the metal knife used to spread the jam.

Faylinn leaned over and picked up the knife. She held it in her hand and examined it. It was rather ornate but it had good balance to it. She stood up from her chair, still examining the knife. In one quick motion, she thrusted the knife through the air. She figured if she was going to wait, she was going to practice her fighting. She then began to thrust and slash the air with amazing speed, pretending she was in a fierce battle against many foes.

[Tomia]

Giuliano heard Leonardo call to him and he smiled, "Hello Leonardo, I almost didn't see you there. Why don't you come out and join us?" He asked his son. He then heard Lucrezia ask about his day. "My work wasn't too bad my dear. I am a bit tired though." Giuliano heard the worry in his wife voice and kissed her cheek. He wanted to sooth her worries. "Don't be worried my dear. How about we spend the day together. My generals can finish the work for today and we can have a special date tonight, like we always used to." He told her sweetly. He frowned a little at the mention of Isotta and then saw her enter the room. "Hello Isotta" He said gently, not wanting to provoke her. Alan saw Isotta enter and smiled and waved back to his friend. He frowned though when she looked upset and stood behind her, placing his hand on her shoulder to comfort her. He didn't sit down with the family, as he didn't think it was proper, though Isotta always tried to get him to. Alan knew what Isotta was upset for but he didn't it up. He would comfort her when they were in private.

[Romisch Palatine]

Luke

While Isotta and Petra went into the dining room through the entrance. Luke went back to his room and change into his Captain of The Guard uniform. A violet velvet suit with fur trim and silver thread woven into it creating the Rotbart crest, the Quaternion Eagle. He put on his fur cape and quickly combed his long red hair back. He placed his longsword on his side and placed some leather falconer's gloves on.

Going through the hallway's he quickly got to the dining room. He opened the wooden door and entered.

"Good morning your majesties."

He bowed to the King.

"Mind if I take a seat? I just returned from Rhougne and have yet to catch up with everyone."

[Nuridia]

"I would like that, maybe we can go on the rivers again." "Remember when I was eleven and I was standing on the banks, waving to you in the boat and then I fell in?" Caterina laughed, holding Giuliano's hand and kissing his cheek. At his father's words Leonardo put down his book and walked over to the table where his family was, sitting in the middle of Isotta and Cesare. Lucrezia sat across from them and Paolo was still in his older sister's lap while Isotta held him and took a bite of some of the raspberry pastry that was being served for breakfast. She heard her father greet her and then turned to him, trying not to be sad or mad if only for a moment even if his face did remind her of Giovanni. They were still father and daughter after all.

"Hello Papa, it's good to see you again." Isotta said with a smile, putting a hand on Alan's in thanks when her friend tried to comfort her while Paolo tried to reach for an apple. Isotta laughed a little, propping the child up. "Looks like somebody's hungry." Although Paolo was still being nursed, he had started to eat mashed foods a month ago. Isotta took the back of her spoon and smashed a piece of her sausage and eggs to a paste, using a tiny bit of water to aid the process and put it on the spoon, feeding it to the little boy. He should've started teething a month ago but it was a bit delayed due to his premature birth. Isotta took another bite of pastry and started to mash some strawberries for her brother when Petronella walked into the room. She curtsied to the king and queen. "Your Majesties." "Aunt, Uncle." Petra said cheerfully, going over to hug Queen Caterina who smiled and hugged her back. They weren't blood but the Queen loved Petronella like she was her own niece. Little Lucrezia was impressed, Petra wasn't glaring at the king or telling him he was wrong for conquering territories and she grabbed a strawberry, trying to put the juice on her lips so her lips could be red like her rouge wearing mother and sister and Cesare snickered at the attempt, earning him a kick in the shin from an annoyed Lucrezia who glared at her older brother.

Just then, a servant woman walked into the room and bowed. "Forgive me majesties for interrupting, but Lady Faylinn Sforza has arrived." "She wishes to speak to Lady Petronella." Petra perked up somewhat at the mention of her adopted sister. Like herself, Faylinn was often ignored and so Petra had tried to forge a bond with the pale skinned Faylin who looked more like a Medici than a Sforza. They didn't talk much but they understood each other."Faylinn's here?" "Tell her to come up." Petra said excitedly. "Oh, I sent her a letter inviting her to the Palazzo, show her in." Isotta told the maid. She wanted to get to know Faylinn since she was legally part of the family. The maid curtsied and went downstairs to bring Faylinn to the dining hall, noticing that she was practicing with the jam knife and the food hadn't been touched.

[Firsthome]

Davis
Davis Had Walked for Many days... At least 5, in this direction. which direction? he did not know. he Had lost His map Years ago, And had never bothered to make a new one. he could Feel the hot, dry air warming his body, and was glad for no rain, Even though he was almost out of water, because it slowed him down for days... he yawned, not that anyone could tell, his face wrapped up in cloth and his eyes hidden with tinted goggles. he Could See a Faint Clump of objects in the distance... More nomads? or maybe... A colony! he Instantly picked up the pace and heading towards the colony (nobela)

[Nachfolgia]

"I would like that, maybe we can go on the rivers again." "Remember when I was eleven and I was standing on the banks, waving to you in the boat and then I fell in?" Caterina laughed, holding Giuliano's hand and kissing his cheek. At his father's words Leonardo put down his book and walked over to the table where his family was, sitting in the middle of Isotta and Cesare. Lucrezia sat across from them and Paolo was still in his older sister's lap while Isotta held him and took a bite of some of the raspberry pastry that was being served for breakfast. She heard her father greet her and then turned to him, trying not to be sad or mad if only for a moment even if his face did remind her of Giovanni. They were still father and daughter after all.

"Hello Papa, it's good to see you again." Isotta said with a smile, putting a hand on Alan's in thanks when her friend tried to comfort her while Paolo tried to reach for an apple. Isotta laughed a little, propping the child up. "Looks like somebody's hungry." Although Paolo was still being nursed, he had started to eat mashed foods a month ago. Isotta took the back of her spoon and smashed a piece of her sausage and eggs to a paste, using a tiny bit of water to aid the process and put it on the spoon, feeding it to the little boy. He should've started teething a month ago but it was a bit delayed due to his premature birth. Isotta took another bite of pastry and started to mash some strawberries for her brother when Petronella walked into the room. She curtsied to the king and queen. "Your Majesties." "Aunt, Uncle." Petra said cheerfully, going over to hug Queen Caterina who smiled and hugged her back. They weren't blood but the Queen loved Petronella like she was her own niece. Little Lucrezia was impressed, Petra wasn't glaring at the king or telling him he was wrong for conquering territories and she grabbed a strawberry, trying to put the juice on her lips so her lips could be red like her rouge wearing mother and sister and Cesare snickered at the attempt, earning him a kick in the shin from an annoyed Lucrezia who glared at her older brother.

Just then, a servant woman walked into the room and bowed. "Forgive me majesties for interrupting, but Lady Faylinn Sforza has arrived." "She wishes to speak to Lady Petronella." Petra perked up somewhat at the mention of her adopted sister. Like herself, Faylinn was often ignored and so Petra had tried to forge a bond with the pale skinned Faylin who looked more like a Medici than a Sforza. They didn't talk much but they understood each other."Faylinn's here?" "Tell her to come up." Petra said excitedly. "Oh, I sent her a letter inviting her to the Palazzo, show her in." Isotta told the maid. She wanted to get to know Faylinn since she was legally part of the family. The maid curtsied and went downstairs to bring Faylinn to the dining hall, noticing that she was practicing with the jam knife and the food hadn't been touched.

Faylinn was in the middle of a thrust when the maid walked in and caught her. She quickly put the knife down in embarrassment and apologized for her behavior. She was definately not royalty. She followed the maid to the dining room where her sister and cousin were at. When Faylinn walked in, she saw the two sitting at a large wooden table with all sorts of delicacies on it. Standing around the table were servents, waiting for any orders the two might give. Faylinn walked over to the table. " Good morning, your magesty. Good morning sister. " Faylinn said as she curtsied before sitting down next to Petra.

[Kuhlfros]

Prince Martan Braskas, Baegisa , Capital City of Wrotland, Below the Castle of Moorufell, First Day of Spring, 785
The Coastal City of Baegisa, Weathiest city of Wrotland, and the settlement built around the citadel fortress of Morrufell was had its ports as busy as usual and the farmers celebrated the end of winter and return to their homes to begin planting for next Harvest. And the ports are starting to become busy again as all the ice has melted away from the coastal waters, and merchants can return to their business as well.

It was mid-morning and Prince Martan was in the Council of the King, His father of course was in another heated discussion with his council whom Martan could name by heart, Chancellor, Count Vemund Sturluson, Marshal, Jarl Saeming Vestmadrson, Steward, Jarl Asgrim Gudleifrson, Spy Master, Count Brondolf Asason, and Diviner Danica Akadottir. Each professing their own views of the situation with the Venician King. "Murder Him!" "Take Our Fleet and raid their Lands", "the Gods forsee thier destruction!",
"No Money, No Trade, No Army!" and "Many Hate the Venicians, even in thier own land, let us urge them to rebel against their masters!"
Finally King Hadrick spoke up, and everyone fell silent immediately as he raised his hand to call order. And all the council strained and hushed to hear the King speak, As Legend goes, King Hadrick Braskas was given a gift from the gods of the most powerful and inspiring voice in battle, loud enough to for their enemies rear guard to hear and tremble. But in exchange, he gave up his voice in speaking tones, always hushed to whisper. and so he spoke, "Friends, End this quarrel and bicker no longer, allow my regent to speak his mind, for he is my son, and ought know me well enough on what to do..." and all eyes turned to Martan. Clearing his throat and unrolling his map of Amarna he spoke calmly, "We Do it all... Assassins and Murderers in their capital, Raiders and Armies looting, pillaging and killing their men on the coast, Pray as we always have for strength, courage, cleverness, and deciveness and finally victory in war, Sail and Plunder their trade by sea, and We find those whom hate their King of Venicia and willing to rebel and plot against him."

The Council was pleased and from behind his father's beard, Hadrick gave his son the faintest of smile and nod and the council meeting was over, and Martan could return to his ship and crew now that Winter was over.

[Tomia]

The king saw Sir Luke enter the room and greeted him, nodding in permission when he asked to sit down. He then turned back to his wife and smiled and laughed at her comment. "I do remember that. I jumped into the water after you. You had scared me half to death. Then we came out of the water all soaking wet and giggling. I would love to return to the river with you my love. It will be nice to spend some time together along like we did when we were younger." He told her, running a fine through her hair gently. Giuliano was surprised but pleased when Isotta greeted him in return. He watched as she fed Paolo, she was very good with him. "You are quite good with children dear. I think you'll be a wonderful mother to the future princes and princess of our kingdom." He told her kindly.
Alan smiled when Isotta put her had on his and kept his hand there for support. He watched as Petra's sister Faylinn entered the room, always noting the clear contrast between them.

[Nuridia]

Petra made way for Faylinn as she sat down next to her. "So Faye, how did you convince Mother and Father to let you come?" Petronella asked, using the nickname that she gave Faylinn when they were kids. Faylinn was the second oldest, she was adopted a year before Petra was born but was younger than their brother. Meanwhile the king and queen were talking together. "Well that would be nice, and we can forget about all the ills in our lives." "And we can go visit the tree outside the cathedral when we had our first kiss." Caterina said to her husband as she ate her breakfast, maybe the memories about how good life used to be would convince Giuliano that what they had was fine and they didn't need any more than they had already. Isotta saw her father's reaction to her and almost remembered him like he was but then he commented on her with Paolo and how she would make a good mother and an invisible dagger twisted in the blonde's heart. How often she imagined what life would be like when she and Giovanni married and had their children together and she dreamed of them. Now, she would never have that because of the actions of the man she was supposed to love more than anybody. Isotta's face went blank and an old wound was torn open, but her father was trying to be kind and she had no stomach for arguing. And besides, if he got angry and confined her to her rooms she would never be able to recruit any new Pulse members today or go over plans. After she took a deep breath Isotta responded to her father's comment. "I'm glad you think that Father, I'm sure you'll make a great grandfather too." "But I don't think I'll have children or be serious about a man for a long time yet." "I have other things to focus on." the princess said, trying to keep her upbeat tone but it had started to waver and her first compulsion was to reach up and finger her locket but she kept her hands steady. She didn't even feel Alan's hand on her shoulder anymore, only her blood start to turn cold in her body and Paolo noticed the change in his sister and the baby started to cry. Caterina saw her daughter start to lose heart and tried to change the subject. "Well you are of marriageable age, I married your father at your age and had you at seventeen two years later." "You're a renowned beauty, intelligent and full of wit and you have a kind heart." "I'm sure there are may men waiting to snatch you up Isotta." Caterina said kindly going over to her daughter and taking her son from her arms, returning to Giuliano with baby Paolo in arms who liked how warm his mother was and started to calm down.

[Nachfolgia]

Petra made way for Faylinn as she sat down next to her. "So Faye, how did you convince Mother and Father to let you come?" Petronella asked, using the nickname that she gave Faylinn when they were kids. Faylinn was the second oldest, she was adopted a year before Petra was born but was younger than their brother. Meanwhile the king and queen were talking together. "Well that would be nice, and we can forget about all the ills in our lives." "And we can go visit the tree outside the cathedral when we had our first kiss." Caterina said to her husband as she ate her breakfast, maybe the memories about how good life used to be would convince Giuliano that what they had was fine and they didn't need any more than they had already. Isotta saw her father's reaction to her and almost remembered him like he was but then he commented on her with Paolo and how she would make a good mother and an invisible dagger twisted in the blonde's heart. How often she imagined what life would be like when she and Giovanni married and had their children together and she dreamed of them. Now, she would never have that because of the actions of the man she was supposed to love more than anybody. Isotta's face went blank and an old wound was torn open, but her father was trying to be kind and she had no stomach for arguing. And besides, if he got angry and confined her to her rooms she would never be able to recruit any new Pulse members today or go over plans. After she took a deep breath Isotta responded to her father's comment. "I'm glad you think that Father, I'm sure you'll make a great grandfather too." "But I don't think I'll have children or be serious about a man for a long time yet." "I have other things to focus on." the princess said, trying to keep her upbeat tone but it had started to waver and her first compulsion was to reach up and finger her locket but she kept her hands steady. She didn't even feel Alan's hand on her shoulder anymore, only her blood start to turn cold in her body and Paolo noticed the change in his sister and the baby started to cry. Caterina saw her daughter start to lose heart and tried to change the subject. "Well you are of marriageable age, I married your father at your age and had you at seventeen two years later." "You're a renowned beauty, intelligent and full of wit and you have a kind heart." "I'm sure there are may men waiting to snatch you up Isotta." Caterina said kindly going over to her daughter and taking her son from her arms, returning to Giuliano with baby Paolo in arms who liked how warm his mother was and started to calm down.

" I actually told them the truth this time. I told them that our cousin invited me to the palace and they just gaffed me off. It doesn't seem that they care what I do. Whether I'm roaming around the city or out in the wilderness hunting, they don't seem to care." Faylinn said with a depressing time. " Anyway...how has your day been so far?" She said as she smiled slightly.

[Tomia]

Giuliano smiled at his wife's suggestion, thinking about that day in his mind. "Oh, I remember that day. I was 16 years old. I had already been in combat but in that moment I was trembling." He half joked to her with a smile. He saw his daughter's attitude suddenly change and was surprised, not understanding what was wrong. He watched as Caterina came over with Paolo and didn't like when the baby started to cry. Giuliano stroked his son's small head of hair gently and soothingly. "Shh my sweet prince, everything is alright." He told his son softly. He then followed his wife's change of topic. "Yes, it should be about time that we found a match for you Isotta. I'm sure we can find you a prince somewhere who you will grow to love as much as I love your mother. I don't know what I would do without her." He said with a smile.

[Pinki3 Pon-3]

Balanell Torchfoot
Bal smiled when he heard Aurora chuckle, at least she was still sane . . . Or in an okayish mood. Either was fine.
"I still don't see why we can't organize a diplomatic meeting with Giulano and then I run him through on my sword."
Bal said with a shrug. His hatred for Giulano had spawned when his eldest sister had been incapacitated from the waste down by an assassin sent after him.
"Then we could find the Chosen in peace."