Atalaeve: A Beginning (IC/Fantasy/Open)

[Second Helghan Empire]

OOC//MAP

---

The Year is 33 Maeve, named for the thirty third year of her majesty's rule. Maeve Atalaeve, Archon of the nation of Atalaeve. The Archon rules from her great palace hall in the capital, the center of everything in Atalaeve. The nation is at peace through marriage and exquisite negotiating the Archon has won her people safety from Barbarian Incursion from the south. While strained at times this peace continues to last even after the death of the Barbarian King, Remmille, husband of Archon Maeve. However while peace reigns now the stresses of politics in the capital grow ever more obvious. Duels between Weaver clan champions have begun to occur daily with lifeless bodies of young weavers lying in the street only moments after. Whispers and even open complaints of organized Outcasts have begun to negatively affect the countryside, as farmers abandon risky lands to protect themselves. Possibly worst of all rumors of the Archon's failing health while her children remain so young. Amidst this a decree has been sent calling for a Grand Assembly in the Archon Hall, an invitation to the representatives of both lords and commoners, and the request of attendance of Merchant lords and Mercenary leaders. Some unseen situation now beckons all those of Atalaeve, with a stake in the nation's future, to the Archon's side a month from the day.

[Second Helghan Empire]

Keoron Nelros

Keoron had received the message relaying the Archon's call to Assembly from a ranger dispatched to his family's holdings. He had been selected as the representative for Nelros by his father because he was already present in Atalaeve. The message from father had included the Ranger's delivery as well as a strongly worded message to learn of what emergency called for such an assembly.

The Grand Assembly had been called three times in Atalaeve history, once for the founding of the nation, once for its declaration of independence from Catalia, and once regarding a barbarian incursion that had reached as far as the outskirts of the capital itself. For one to be called now was no only suspicious but altogether worrisome for the young Weaver.

However with the assembly so long off, giving time to the far off lords and freeholders the make their way in, Keoron felt it necessary to attempt to meet others arriving for the Assembly. So already living in the market district Keoron began venturing to the markets themselves, those frequented by Weavers and nobles mostly, to attempt and find more information from a higher born family.

---

Seyra Tedine

Seyra had been stunned to be chosen to accompany a few Wind Bastion Scholars to the capital. She had rarely left the community of the mountain side bastion since she arrived as a child, and had never been to the capital. At first she had squealed with joy as she raced back to inform her fellows. However as it set in she became more and more worried for what would occur once she arrived.

Having to pack for such a trip took her far longer than it should have. The first time having packed so much as to be stopped and told to lighten her load by a senior scholar Seyra then had to try a third time after not packing the proper essentials for the roads. After the better part of a day she was ready to set out with her superiors to the Capital on the road. It would take at least two weeks in fair water to arrive at their destination even with a Ranger guiding their path.

For Seyra this could not have been better. Three days in and she was already further than she had been from the Bastion since her ninth birthday. The forests thickened and the narrow roads followed creeks and brooks most of the way. The air smelled thick with the scent of pine and oak, and the songs of birds and sounds of other animals in the woods entertained her continuously.

They rested at Ranger outposts or bastions on the way. Aging structures, filled with weapons but too few men to wield them all. The compounds relied on their construction, which repulsed weaver attacks, for most of their protection, and the Rangers within spent more time patrolling the roads than standing guard on the walls. That was how peace was. Peaceful, yet awful if you wee a soldier by trade.

Seyra's path would eventually find one of the rivers from the Vaemar Springs flowing from the capital and from there the road would be quick and easy as the population slowly increased growing nearer and nearer the city.

[Uzizho]

Alexander and Mihel Chios

"Stop being so grouchy, Mihel."

"I wouldn't be grouchy if I wasn't forced to WALK all the way to the capital because of your horny ass."

"You saw her, what would you have done? Besides, I saw you eyeing her sister. That's what this is really about, right? Sad you missed your chance with her?"

"One or two more hours and it would have been me that merchant found in bed with his daughter instead of you. How come you are always the one to get lucky?"

"Have you seen my face?"

"Shut up."

A lively pair was walking along a trail, heading north. They were of course Alexander and Mihel Chios. It had been nearly a month since their Rite of Tempering began. Typically, if one was going such great distances, they would use a horse or carriage. Unfortunately, the Rite limits what you can take with you on your journey. Only your weapons, armor, a few changes of clothes, and some very basic survival equipment are allowed. Everything else- food, money, and transportation- had to be acquired by themselves. They had successfully smooth talked a merchant group into giving them passage, but that ended when the head merchant found Alexander and his daughter in a rather compromising position. So they had to make most the trip on foot.

"Stop moaning. Besides," Alexander held up a small bag that jingled. Obviously there were coins in it. But what was more striking was the blood soaking it. "we had more fun this way, right?" Two young men walking by themselves, especially in the barbarian infested south, were typically seen as quite the easy target. Unfortunately for any would-be bandits, Alexander and Mihel proved to be anything but. Fortunately for the would-be thieves, unfortunately for battle-crazed Alexander, they encountered fewer bandits the more north they went. What good was "civilization" if this was the result?

"Now the real question is what are we to do about this?" Alexander said as he held up a letter. Concerning the Grand Assembly to take place in Atalaeve, Alexander had been chosen as the Chios's Clan representative. It made sense, considering he was headed to the capital anyways and was the top candidate for the next clan head. He should get used to participating in politics, and Alexander would have usually jumped at the chance. But what he didn't like was to suddenly be told he was attending only a day ago by way of his father's messenger hawk. He had little time to prepare, and had precious few allies in the capital. He was not in a strong position to negotiate anything with the major players. This was not the time to make his debut. His original plan had been to take his time, make a name for himself as a mercenary, establish contacts, and send a few high priced gifts to some very important people. But now he had been rushed, and his mood was deteriorating because of it.

"Well we should go." Mihel said. Too bad for him that he was the only one around for Alexander to vent his annoyance on.

"Oh, I didn't think about that." Alexander said sarcastically. "Of course we have to go. It's a direct order from my father. To ignore it would be the same as betraying the clan." He ignored Mihel after that. Mihel was both a great fighter and attendant, but politician he was not. There was no use asking him about this. 'I shouldn't be the only one in a position like this, though.' The assembly was rather sudden, he doubted many were well prepared. 'Scared sheep flock together.' There was strength in numbers, after all. Many would rush to make allies. But those would be minor players, who weren't strong enough to stand on their own. Not to say they were useless. No man rules alone, many subordinates were needed. But the weak would only flock to those who had proven themselves to be strong. To prove his strength, that is what Alexander needed to do... Wait. There were duels between champions in the capital, right? A bloodthirsty grin appeared on Alexander's face. Plans were being formed.

[New Roman Empire]

Liam Karlani

Liam walked through the market district, he was a Karlani a foreigner by all means when they first arrived. But now his family held power, they were the bankers. They lent out money and collected on it, they also are known of taking control of the noble district and the market district as their authority to guard. Liam had been woken up by his father earlier that morning informing him that in a month they would be going to the assembly, that was news to him though he had heard about the Archon's failing health. He couldn't say that he was sad about the fact, the Karlani despite being more in tune with the people thought they were the strongest house in Atalaeve. Though this was meaning they would be calling in favors of all those who owed them money and who supported them.

"Captain, ensure men are posted here and over there I want to ensure peace is kept. Also I think its time we trained more guardsmen, my father wants to rule the city. But first we must either control the guard or we must push them out of a job, ensure there are enough stationed at the banks in the city as well. I don't want to have to deal with an robberies," ordered Liam as they continued to walk through the market. A ball rolled over and stopped at Liam's feet, Liam bent down and picked up the ball and soon a boy no older than 6 rushed over. Liam smiled and handed the ball back to the kid who smiled and ran back over to his friends where they started to play with the ball again.

"Also once the ambassadors from the respected clans and factions arrive I want them to see the power of House Karlani, if there is one thing the clans respect its power. The current force should know their orders, keep the peace and stop any fighting that breaks out. Once we know we are set, we will go talk to the captain of the guard and either bribe him to our cause and his men work for us or we will push them out by force. By that I mean we will post guards in other parts of the cities if we need to," concluded Liam as they reached a stall where a local farmer was selling his crops.

"Ah Master Karlani, good to see you! I hope your father is well, we had a good crop so far and we are expecting it to only get better. My family is in your debt for the help your family has provided us," thanked Marshal as he shook Liam's hand as his daughter who was about 17 or 18 walked to the stall after getting some more of the crops out of the cart. She was about a foot shorter than Liam, light brown hair that stopped just below her shoulder blades. She didn't have a bad face either, she smiled as he walked by and put a small crate of fruit on an empty space of the stall.

"Master Karlani, I am pleased to finally meet you. My father has told me many great stories of how your family has helped us over the years, I am glad for one that you have. We may not have much, but we are thankful for what we have and its all thanks to you and your family." Agreed the Marshal's daughter as she walked back to the cart to get another crate of fruit.

Liam leaned over the stall and whispered, "So what would you say to a possible marriage between our houses? My father has been bothering me for the last several years to find a wife. Your daughter doesn't look all that bad, not to mention it would tie both our families together of course my father will want to see her before confirming anything." Marshal thought for a moment before nodding, Liam smiled and walked away from the stall and continued on with his patrol.

[Etarmoof]

Fortress of Augustinius


Grand Master Augustinius CXLIV strides through the tall grey marble halls of the Fortress of Augustinius, his purple cloak billowing behind him. He walks to ornately carved stone doors, two guards snap to attention, and open the doors as he walks through. Inside is the same grey marble in a the great hall of the fortress, stretching back 50 meters, and 25 meters tall. At the end opposite of the doors stands a large silver and marble ornately carved throne in the shape of the Houses double headed eagle with its wings out stretched. made by captured earth weavers many centuries ago, with a large fireplace, with healthy fire inside. Touches cast light from polished silver scones casting the room in bright light. 10 large marble pillars line the room on either side, draped are rich tapestries, and the Golden Eagle of House Augustinius. Augustinius walks through and is greeted by two of his family members and closest advisers, Aeneas Augustinius his younger brother, and Concordia Augustinius his elder sister. Concordia steps forward and bows, her white dress trailing behind her.

"Brother, the witch Archon has called a Assembly." She says in her silky voice.

"Another way for these demons to oppress us. The witch...." Spits Aeneas heavy with contempt, as Augustinius cuts him off.

"My brother this temper does not befit a noble Lord. My sister what is the purpose of this Assembly?" Says Augustinius

"I do not know, my brother, most like to discuss possible succession with her failing health." Concordia

"Concordia, you will accompany me to the capital, our spies obviously need some form of encouragement. My brother, send riders to Bank of Karlani, with a generous investment, and a invitation to our manor at the capital, in a fortnight. In my absence gather more free folk, the strengthening of our economics is of the utmost importance." Augustinius

"My brother, our coffers are not as great as they once were." Aeneas

Concordia scoffs, "Aeneas, I have not known you to shy away from a reason to raid, head north, ransack the barbarian villages, take slaves*** back to work our mines, this is not so complex."

"Sister, you question my bravery, you sound like a weaver." Aeneas says drawing a sword, a playful smirk on his face,

"Aeneas, I question your intelligence, recall that time..." Concordia

"Sister, brother, we must work, there is no time for playful arguments."
Augustinius calls to the guards at the door,
"Ready 250 men, and horse, we leave in an hour."

The guards salute, bow, and leave the great hall. Augustinius turns and walks from the room his siblings in close pursuit.

"Brother must you be so dull." Concordia teases

"Our eventual triumph over the weavers, and the creation of an empire worthy of our house is our sole mission, unlike you I cannot afford any distraction from this goal. The weavers must be destroyed." Augustinius says without looking back, as he walks through the bleak grey halls of the immense fortress towards the stables.

"He is right, though no less dull." Aeneas whispers to Concordia as they follow there elder brother.

An hour later 250 horsemen with a dozen wagons with provisions stand in formation in the great courtyard of the fortress, their breath visible in the cold mountain air. Dwarfed by the immense fortress, Augustinius and Concordia ride out, both on immaculate white horses, as they gallop towards the imposing gate, the 50 of the horsemen follow at a gallop while the remaining 200 trot along side the wagons. they exit the fortress into the bleak mountainside for the long trek south to the Capital.

***OCC: The practice of slavery is unknown to Altalaeve at large, however there are rumors

[The Mizarian Empire]

Iron Watch camp,
Ulrich Ivahl

Ulrich had been awoken from his slumber to a head-splitting hang-over, rubbing his skull he sat up, caressing his head before planting his hands on either side of it and trying to clear his mind, muttering and hoping that the powers that be will actually cooperate today. A few choice words towards the gods and minutes later the dull throbbing ache was gone from his mind. Finally climbing to his feet he donned his gambeson*, his ancient family crest stitched crudely (his own attempt at needle-work) upon it's sleeves. While he was at home here in the camp, Ulrich had lived long enough to not trust the fates solely with his safety. He gazed about the modest-sized tent, one which could easily be mistaken for an up-and-coming merchant's home for all it's trophies and fine furniture were it's walls not made of tanned animal hides resting in a forest clearing. As he left his "Humble" abode, he looked about the camp filled with his lads.

The sounds of hammers ringing against iron and steel to forge the many tools and weapons commissioned by various clients of the Iron wall filled the air. Nearby a few men sat atop small boulders around a crate indulging in games of chance. The smell of roasting meat filled his nose and he let his feet guide him in it's direction a several paces before hearing the sounds of rushing footsteps approaching. The barely-woken nobleman turned and stared half-lidded at the young man bounding towards him holding a letter. He snatched it from his hands as the runner stopped before him, panting with exhaustion as he read over it's contents....It had taken him re-reading the letter several times in his barely conscious state before he finally nodded, patted the runner on the shoulder and shooed him away before turning back to the direction of the camp's feasting grounds. Apparently there was to be some great gathering and his presence was requested. While Ulrich was touched that they had included him he wasn't about to stand among other nobles on an empty stomach, let alone without a drink or 3 before the trip.

Now finally awake and properly dressed, Ulrich strolled through the streets of Atalaeve towards the Archon Hall where this supposed meet was to take place. Flanked on either side by 2 of his best warriors (Tychus and Atlay Durich, twins), Ulrich hadn't expected trouble, yet tensions among weavers in recent times had led him to be somewhat distrustful of the nobles dueling left and right in the streets. While far from a champion himself of anything but honest work, he hadn't lived this long without a certain degree of caution. Upon his arrival he'd nodded to the few individuals present thusfar and found himself a spot among from which to watch the gathering audience from afar.

A padded/quilted jacket, worn as a light form of armor or under other armor such as plate or chainmail to absorb the impact of a weapon, reducing the risk of blunt-force injury.

[North Timeria]

Arion finished packing his bag and looked around his room. There was no turning back and he knew it, the time had come for him to take his trip. Taking a trip back home had been on his mind for a while but he never had the conviction to go through with it. He put on his coat and grabbed his backpack as he left his room. As he walked out Kia was sitting at the table waiting to say his goodbyes. Something laid on the table in front of him wrapped up in a sheet. Kia stood up and placed a hand on Arion's shoulder.

"I'm glad that you've finally made a decision...I think it's time for you to get some answer that I can't provide. I wish I could've been more helpfully over the years but without the power to weave there wasn't much I could teach you."

Arion laughed as they both sat down at the table.

"That's not true...Everything isn't about my powers. You taught me plenty and I can say that without you I wouldn't be where I am today." Arion and Kia shared a brief silence together before Kia slid over the wrapped gift.

"What I've been working on...I think it's my best yet." Arion unwrapped the layers to reveal a brand new sword.

"I made it to your liking...Very light but it's still durable and it's conductive so you should get some use out of it if you still remember what I taught you."

Arion lifted the word from the table and took a few steps back. He sent bolts of lighting through the sword which gave it a blue glow. As he handled the sword Kia interrupted him.

"And I don't want you out there using that for evil... Your parents weren't like that and they definitely wouldn't be happy to see you out there acting crazy...Your mother would have a fit at me."

Arion nodded and placed the sword on his backpacks holster.

"Thank you Kia...for everything. I'll be back as soon as my journey is complete." Arion and Kia shared a big hug before Arion's departure.

As Arion got onto his horse Kia stepped outside. "And you better say goodbye to Kariya ...It would break her heart not being able to see you off."

Arion nodded and headed towards Kariya's house. His dog Koa followed closely behind him.

---

Before Arion was able to step off, Kariya came outside to meet him. As he stepped down she dropped her head and started to cry a bit.

"Kariya please don't...I told you I had to do this."

"Well then let me come with you...You'll need someone to watch your back and keep you company."

Arion shook his head "It's dangerous out there and I wouldn't be able to live with myself if you died because of me."

"I am not afraid to die."

"I'm afraid that you'll die! Please, Kariya... I'll return as soon as I find some answers.Just stay safe while I'm away... I promise I'll return alive."

Kariya leaned against the fence and looked deeply into Arion's eyes. "Don't make promises you can't keep." She stood up and kissed him on the cheek. "Come back to me...I'll be waiting."

As Kariya walked back into her house Arion thought back to when they first met and the memories he shared with her. Before getting too deep into thought he jumped onto his horse and rode off. He was headed North to his former home. Kia had told him that the land was still dead and unfarmable. No one had lived there since the village was attacked and those that had seen the village spoke of it being devoid of life.

[New Roman Empire]

Liam Karlani

Liam had stopped by the manor to inform his father that later tonight his selection of a possible wife would be arriving for dinner. But shortly after he had arrived, his father told him to go talk to the Paladin at the main gate and to gain the loyalty of his men in the district. Liam knew the significance of controlling the gate, they could keep those they wanted out and cut off escape of anyone they were hunting as well. "Of course Father, I will go right away. I'll assume I have the ability to negotiate the contract with them, if they don't bend the knee I will push their firces out of the area by sending patrols there ourselves." Informed Liam as he walked out of the study and onto the street. A squad of Karlani guardsmen we're waiting for him, he signaled for them to follow him. As they traveled through city guard territory, he could feel them all watching him. The guard either hated them or we're happy to be paid more, but this district was the first kind. They knew why he was here and they were not Happy about it at all.

He was taken through the barracks where the paladin's office was, who happened to be sitting at his desk. "Paladin, I am Liam Karlani of house Karlani I have come to offer you a deal. For the loyalty of you and your men in this district, we are willing to offer up to 3x your regular wages. Like I said this is for the loyalty of your men, just think we can supply your men with better equipment than the regular watch can afford to give you," offered Liam as he plopped a bag down on the desk to shoe he was serious.

[Second Helghan Empire]

Great Gate District
Paladin Artose

The Paladin was stunned by the forward nature of Liam Karlani. A bribe like this was surely something he didn't want spoken about in the open air. For most aspects the Paladin was an honorable man, his father had taught him to be such a man, however, Artose had a pair of twins on the way, confirmed by a Life Weaver. He could use more money and he knew his men in the gate district would like the extra income too.

"Why don't we step into my office inside the Gatehouses Mr. Karlani, a more private setting would do our conversation good."

The paladin stepped in and closed the door behind Karlani. He motioned to a seat in front of the desk and took his own behind it. He looked at Liam blankly for a moment before letting out a large sigh and leaning forward elbows on the edge of his desk and hands clasped together just inches from his face.

"I have to say that was a rather foolish thing to do in the open area at the main gates." Artose's eyes assessed the young man more thoroughly.

"However it is a generous amount to say the least, anything less and I would have arrested you and you men immediately for attempting to bribe me. However, while it's enough money, I also need a favor from you and yours before we move forward on this, and of course there will be certain, things we simply won't be able to do."

He let that sink in a moment before standing again. He walked over to a sealed cabinet and unlocked it producing a stack of missives. An assortment of orders, dispatches, and other information regarding a growing issue in the city. They bore the differing marks of several different districts of the city.

"These are from my fellow Paladins in other districts, they pertain to an organized crime syndicate now threatening the sanctity of my city. Our guards are too well known throughout the districts to make any more headway in identifying and arresting their leader. You infiltrate them personally and get close up to whoever is in charge, then help us ambush them, and I won't just be on your payroll, I will sway the other districts in your favor. Are you up for the task?"

Artose slid the bundled papers into a small satchel bag and slid it across the desk to Liam. However he tightly grasped it waiting for the man's reply.

[Etarmoof]

Augustinius
50 horsemen in full black armour covering the men and horses, with the golden eagle of House Augustinians gilded onto the chest plates, and fluttering from banners on the lances, thunder southward, through the many farms field north of Atalaeve. When Augustinius and Concordia reached the marches they met several river cogs that were honoured to transport Augustinius and his men beyond the bogs and swamps of the marches. The column moved south quickly. However the more south they went the larger the number of trades and freefolk hoping to make it to the capital under their protection became. This quickly began to slow the march as the column became weighed down with the sheer number of merchants and freefolk. This led Augustinius to the conclusion that he must ride ahead of the main group to reach the city as quickly as possible. now less than half a day's ride from the city he plows his men forward to reach the city.

Concordia
After her brother detached from the main column to move southward more swiftly the number of merchants and freefolk doubled to nearly 200 additional people using the soldiers as protection from bandits as they move south, now as she nears the capital many of the freefolk leave the column to go do their business elsewhere. However Concordia has promised those who will travel north, land and a new life, so a large number of the freefolk will be traveling with the column northward with their departure. Concordia sent a rider ahead of column with a message for the Bank of Karlani, an invitation to House Augustinius estate outside the capital. Another rider was sent to the estate to ready it for her arrival.

Aeneas
Aeneas in his black armour with the golden eagle on his chest, black cloak, and banner. With 50 horsemen stand on a ridge overlooking a mountain barbarian village behind them stand 150 archers. They notch an arrow, light the arrows tips, draw and fire. Flaming arrows descended unto the thatched roofs of the barbarian village, and the roofs turn into blazing infernos. The barbarians run out in panic. The archers notch another arrow and fire agian, and agian killing dozens of the barbarians. Two people dressed in clothes far nicer than that of the rest of the barbarians, and weave water unto the flames, another two come running from a burning house and begin to weave stones towards the cavalry on the ridge overlooking the devastation.

“Weavers.” Aeneas mutters with contempt.
“Focus fire on the Water weavers, horsemen, with me CHARGE!”

Aeneas yells heavy with contempt and disgust, and the cry is picked up by the other horsemen and the thunder into the barbarian village. Another volley from the arches forces the earth weavers to retreat to cover stopping the barrage of rocks, and one of the water weavers is pierced by several arrows. As the cavalry enter the barbarian village a meager group of barbarians armed with spears attempt to block the charge, but are trampled and pierced by the lances of the cavalry. Aeneas dismounts and draws his great sword from its scabbard on his back in one smooth movement and approaches the two earth weavers, the metal of his sword glinting in the fire of the village. Two columns of stone rise before and several rock fly towards him from the weavers, Aeneas however dodges the large rocks, and uses the columns as platforms leap high above the weavers, and down atop one cleaving him almost perfectly in half, from head to groin. He turns to the other weaver, who in fear cannot seem to create any magic as a cavalry man rides by spearing the weaver, carrying him off into the burning village.

Aeneas then turns and enters the house that the weavers came out of and finds the last water weaver, a young woman huddled in the corner flames all around using water to douse as much as she could whistle hold a small boy, brother and sister. Aeneas black cloak with the golden eagle billow in the waves of heat from the many fires. He looks at the pair now frozen with his appearance. The young boy begins to cry, and the young woman attempts to send water tentacles in his direction but fails. Aeneas walks towards them, and kicks down the back door allowing the pair to flee. As he exits the burning house it collapses behind him. He mounts his armoured horse, as the cavalry men round up around 100 survivors, and begin marching the out of the village, towards the Fortress of Augustinius, and the deep mines below the fortress.

[Uzizho]

Alexander Chios

The sound of metal clashing and grunts of exertion were drowned out by the cheers of the crowd.

"What's the matter? Nothing without your worthless imps?" Alexander sneered at his opponent, who he had backed into a corner.

"Shut up." His opponent raged, lashing forward with a poorly aimed thrust with his sword. It was easily parried by Alexander's odachi, whose cutting power was massively increased by the lightning running through it. Another cut appeared in the other man's sword, looking as if it would shatter at the slightest touch. His armor was in a similar state, while there were many open cuts on his body. Perhaps some context is needed.

After arriving at the city Alexander had immediately headed into the Archon Hall to participate in a few duels. First he had to offend someone enough to have them declare a duel, which wasn't too hard. The Chios Clan didn't have a great reputation to begin with, throw in his title of "Prince of Barbarians" and a few rude remarks and quite a few of the more self-righteous champions were more than willing to 'teach him a lesson.'

And his amount of challengers only skyrocketed after he defeated and killed the first champion. Mainly because first one had a few friends who swore to get justice for him, and then he'd killed those champions who all had friends who swore to get justice for them, so on and so forth.

This all led him to his current state. 17 hours since his first duel, covered in blood that wasn't his. The only part of him not dyed in red was the white cloth over his left arm that proudly displayed his clan symbol. Surrounding him in the stadium were all the bodies of his previous challengers, as he'd refuse to let the staff clean up the mess. It would be hard to tell how many competitors he'd had so far, as most bodies were in several pieces spread all across the floor. If one did manage to put all the pieces and parts back together they would count a total of 26. Quite a few of the more squeamish viewers had left, not only because of the gore but, perhaps more unsettling, the fact that Alexander had an insane grin on his face throughout all of it. However, as tales of his massacre spread throughout the city, far more people came to watch than had left. The hall was now packed to the brim.

The soon to be 27th corpse that Alexander was currently fighting was a particularly pathetic flesh focus weaver. His opponent had challenged him thinking that all his previous fights had tired him out. He had summoned ten imps all around a meter tall that he set upon Alexander as soon as the fight began. Alexander followed up with a weak electric pulse that temporarily paralyzed all the imps, followed with charging towards his opponent. Since flesh weavers let their creations fight for them they were typically poor at combat themselves, which was why Alexander's strategy had been to force him into close combat. And he was right, the man was pitiful at it. Anyone with a bit of combat knowledge could tell Alexander had been toying with him the entire time. It seemed, however, that the man was preparing a last second all out attack.

"Come back!" He shouted. Immediately all of the imps disappeared. In their place now stood a 3 meter tall ogre. "Kill him!" He screamed with a touch of madness. Unfortunately for him, Alexander was far faster than the ogre. A single slash of his odachi tore through his already damaged sword, armor, and body, as he fell to the floor as two pieces. The ogre continued its charge and threw out a punch. Alexander stepped back while dishing out a lightning fast slash and the ogre immediately found that its outstretched arm was no longer attached to its body. It punched with its other arm as it let out a roar of rage. Alexander ducked under the fist and after another slash the ogre fell down missing a leg. It continued to rage on the ground as Alexander stood over it, peircing his sword straight into the monster's chest. It stopped struggling a second later. Alexander panted a few times before turning his head to meet the crowd. A manic grin spread across his face as he spoke out.

"Who's next?"

It was quite a while before someone was brave enough to answer.

[New Roman Empire]

Great Gate District
Paladin Artose

The Paladin was stunned by the forward nature of Liam Karlani. A bribe like this was surely something he didn't want spoken about in the open air. For most aspects the Paladin was an honorable man, his father had taught him to be such a man, however, Artose had a pair of twins on the way, confirmed by a Life Weaver. He could use more money and he knew his men in the gate district would like the extra income too.

"Why don't we step into my office inside the Gatehouses Mr. Karlani, a more private setting would do our conversation good."

The paladin stepped in and closed the door behind Karlani. He motioned to a seat in front of the desk and took his own behind it. He looked at Liam blankly for a moment before letting out a large sigh and leaning forward elbows on the edge of his desk and hands clasped together just inches from his face.

"I have to say that was a rather foolish thing to do in the open area at the main gates." Artose's eyes assessed the young man more thoroughly.

"However it is a generous amount to say the least, anything less and I would have arrested you and you men immediately for attempting to bribe me. However, while it's enough money, I also need a favor from you and yours before we move forward on this, and of course there will be certain, things we simply won't be able to do."

He let that sink in a moment before standing again. He walked over to a sealed cabinet and unlocked it producing a stack of missives. An assortment of orders, dispatches, and other information regarding a growing issue in the city. They bore the differing marks of several different districts of the city.

"These are from my fellow Paladins in other districts, they pertain to an organized crime syndicate now threatening the sanctity of my city. Our guards are too well known throughout the districts to make any more headway in identifying and arresting their leader. You infiltrate them personally and get close up to whoever is in charge, then help us ambush them, and I won't just be on your payroll, I will sway the other districts in your favor. Are you up for the task?"

Artose slid the bundled papers into a small satchel bag and slid it across the desk to Liam. However he tightly grasped it waiting for the man's reply.

Liam Karlani

Liam ignored the Paladin until he started to talk about his offer, "Interesting very interesting. Paladin Artose, your duties under our payroll wouldn't change, you and your men keep the peace, ignore our men, and be ready for when we call on your men to arms. Granted that last part wont be for some time, those are the guidelines you would have to abide by." He looked at the assortment of dispatches from the other districts, Either this is a trap, or I have just stumbled onto our rise to power in the country. But this offer is way too good to pass up.

"I will start my investigation in the slum district, no doubt a man of my prestige talking to a few beggars and offering some coin will point me in the right direction. Plus I could use the excuse that I'm willing to invest some money into their cause, that could at least get me close to the leader. But we shall see, now I will be back once I have a lead or anything of importance. Oh and tell your men not to follow me out, this syndicate could have spies about and me talking to you would have no doubt drawn their attention," added Liam as he walked out of the office grabbing the dispatches he would take to the manor before heading to the slum district.

[North Timeria]

Arion's trip was mostly uneventful and he had managed to make amazing time. As he approached his old home the ground became darker and silence fell all around him. As he slowed down his horse he stepped off and looked at the soil. As he scraped a bit he noticed that the burn went a lot deeper than he could dig up. His dog Koa began to dig a small hole and about 6 inches into the earth he could see the natural soil.

As he examined it he noticed the charred pillar still outside of his village. He tied his horse to the pillar and entered the village. Nothing was left and Arion could tell this place was devoid of any life. No plants grew and even scavenger birds stayed away from this graveyard. As he ventured deeper into the village things became more sinister. Arion entered a fairly large house which to his surprise housed countlessly unmarked remains. Arion looked at the bones of the fallen scattered across the house. As he walked deeper into the house he noticed one door was still closed but burned severely. Arion was easily able to break down the door but would soon regret it. As he looked into the room he saw the remains of children stacked up against the wall. He fled out of the house in a frenzy trying to escape the horrors he had just witnessed.

As he continued into the village he saw more bodies laying across the street, stacked up near a market, and the most obvious were the 2 that had been put on display. He rushed over the remains to examine them. The only thing he knew was that they were male and female and had been executed. As he looked over the site his horse came running through the village. The burned pillar provided little resistance when the horse decided to flee. The horse was very shaken for some reason and Arion jumped on. As he looked around the village his dog Koa began to dark viciously.

Arion couldn't identify anything and was on edge. He grabbed his blade and wielded it as he ordered his horse to stride through the village. He looked down every corner and kept his head on a swivel. Just as he was about to leave he saw his old house. Arion hadn't forgotten and remembered it as soon as he laid his eyes on it. He slowly approached the house making sure to be aware of his surroundings.

[Second Helghan Empire]

Destroyed Northern Village

A small band of looters knocked knocked the badly damaged door of one of the very few remaining structures. Six of them all large burly men stopped dead in their tracks at the sight of Arion and Koa. Two unceremoniously dropped their looted goods, which crashed to the ground breaking open one crate and spilling ash covered jewels and some basic household metal items. They quickly drew out rough cleaver like blades as the rest gently placed their crates down in the dust and ash and began drawing out a myriad of clubs and rough hewn blades.

"Look here friend," Barked one of the looters. "We've been looting this site ever since it was destroyed, you buzz off and find your own and we won't have any problem. This village and it's troves are ours and ours alone."

This apparent leader strode forward now around eight foot from Arion and Koa, The other looter thugs stepped up behind this more bold member of their number and formed a semi circle locking the way past leaving the back open to Arion if he chose to leave.

"Like he said," Piped up one of the other thugs. "Yeah we've been here since the place was first torched so scram or we'll ransack your corpse too."

---

Gate District

Paladin Onterose nodded in agreement with Liam as he left and waited a few moments before he returned to the district. He felt somewhat dirty, but surely he had made the right decision. He had even managed to get the Karlani to help rid the city of the growing organized crime. He hoped the move would come to fruition. However he had a few plain clothes clad guardsmen keep their distance from Liam but also keep their eye on him. Not close enough to intervene or be suspected by anyone he dealt with, just enough to note where he went in his search. Even if he failed, if he got farther than the guardsmen had, his help will have been appreciated for leading them onto the path of the ring leader.

---

Archon Hall, Duel Pit

In the pit at the center of the Archon's main hall, duelists usually fought to first blood. However it seemed, in keeping with their reputation, the Chios duelist was putting down any who crossed him. It would take a weaver to properly remove the blood soaking into the flooring. Keoron leaned against a far wall idly watching as the champion butchered his way through his opponents. However one thing Keoron couldn't help but notice was those foolish enough to jump in without assessing their enemy were Capital born. Most were professional duelists and against other capital and most noble house duel champions they would have been feared, but like Keoron, this Alexander Chios was not a city duelist.

Keoron slowly walked forward from the edge of the room. An ogre created by some cowardly flesh weaver. Keoron wasn't a big fan of flesh weavers except at carnivals. At the edge of the duel pit he greeted Alexander.

"I will fight you, first blood, winner buys the other a drink at my favorite pub back in market district." He grinned as he spoke, being as friendly as possible. He wanted a good duel but also wanted to work with this man.

Keoron removed his over coat revealing his dueling attire, form fitting and comfortable the material was padded and had small pieces of channel metal embedded throughout it. He awaited a proper answer from his possible opponent before he entered the pit or drew his blades.

[Uzizho]

Archon Hall, Duel Pit

In the pit at the center of the Archon's main hall, duelists usually fought to first blood. However it seemed, in keeping with their reputation, the Chios duelist was putting down any who crossed him. It would take a weaver to properly remove the blood soaking into the flooring. Keoron leaned against a far wall idly watching as the champion butchered his way through his opponents. However one thing Keoron couldn't help but notice was those foolish enough to jump in without assessing their enemy were Capital born. Most were professional duelists and against other capital and most noble house duel champions they would have been feared, but like Keoron, this Alexander Chios was not a city duelist.

Keoron slowly walked forward from the edge of the room. An ogre created by some cowardly flesh weaver. Keoron wasn't a big fan of flesh weavers except at carnivals. At the edge of the duel pit he greeted Alexander.

"I will fight you, first blood, winner buys the other a drink at my favorite pub back in market district." He grinned as he spoke, being as friendly as possible. He wanted a good duel but also wanted to work with this man.

Keoron removed his over coat revealing his dueling attire, form fitting and comfortable the material was padded and had small pieces of channel metal embedded throughout it. He awaited a proper answer from his possible opponent before he entered the pit or drew his blades.

Alexander Chios

"First blood?" Alexander made a confused face for a second, before snickering. "I didn't even know that was an option." Another grin came upon his face, this one more friendly than his previous bloodthirsty ones. He'd been raised all his life to respect strength, and the man in front of him gave off a totally different feeling than those he met so far. Of course that didn't mean he'd go easy on him, quite the opposite actually. There were drinks on the line.

"Alright, you're on. Names Alexander by the way, Alexander Chios." He said with a smirk, as he purposely showcased the clan symbol on his clothes for all to see. He sunk into a basic stance with his odachi out in front of him. "Get ready." Small arcs of electricity surrounded him as he channeled lightning through his sword. He closed his eyes in concentration as more lightning continuously gathered on his sword. 'Let's test him out a bit to start.' He used its properties as a high grade channel to amplify the lightning's power, before sending a single slash into the open air. The lightning immediately flew of the sword, heading towards Keoron in an arc.

[Second Helghan Empire]

Keoron Nelros
Dueling Pit, Archon Hal

Keoron smiled as the man accepted and introduced himself. He pitched his overcoat and removed his belt bearing the sheaths for his blades. Drawing both his sword and dagger he crossed to be in front of his opponent. The lightning buildup around Alexander had Keoron move backward into a defensive pose. He channeled his flames into his sword and dagger as the lightning arced toward him.

Deflecting and sidestepping the attack Keoron advanced toward Alexander, moving into an aggressive posture and propelling himself forward ringing his flaming blade in a wide arc back around toward Alexander's left side, sweeping the sword downward slightly and aiming for his abdomen. Simultaneously Kereon moved his dagger into a guard position for the impending counter to his move. He shifted his weight putting force behind his sword while creating a dragging motion that would deflect pressure from a counter that impacted his sword ino the hand guard to allow a stronger defense following his attack.

"It's a pleasure," Keoron popped off through a smile. "I'm Keoron Nelros."

Little more needed to e said at that moment. Keoron had seen the man's strength earlier it now he could get a better sense of it. A sense more like the gladiators and warriors in Catalia and Cruxia, Deadly, and powerful, born to wage war and slay opponents with his blade, like Keoron himself.

[New Roman Empire]

Gate District

Paladin Onterose nodded in agreement with Liam as he left and waited a few moments before he returned to the district. He felt somewhat dirty, but surely he had made the right decision. He had even managed to get the Karlani to help rid the city of the growing organized crime. He hoped the move would come to fruition. However he had a few plain clothes clad guardsmen keep their distance from Liam but also keep their eye on him. Not close enough to intervene or be suspected by anyone he dealt with, just enough to note where he went in his search. Even if he failed, if he got farther than the guardsmen had, his help will have been appreciated for leading them onto the path of the ring leader.

Liam Karlani

Liam and his guards had reached the slums, they were a place were organized crime seemed to be the dominate source of work in the area. "Ok, spread out I want to gather as much information as we can. Talk to everyone, leave no stone unturned I have no issues with turning the whole district upside down if I must," ordered Liam as the group dispersed and went in several direction. Liam walked down a street and into a tavern, the Maiden's Breasts and walked up to the bar tender. "I'm looking for information and ways to contact the Ilevi Syndicate, I'm willing to pay money for any information you have on them and how to contact them," informed Liam as he pulled out a small bag of money and set it on the counter keep a hand on it until the bartender decided to give him the information he needed.

[Second Helghan Empire]

Maiden's Breasts Tavern, Docks District, Common Region

Daven Wurlt looked at the money in Liam's hand. It was a large sum, but the people he was asking about...they owned this district. He glanced around. A few knowing faces looked up at him with menacing glares. They belonged in one way or another to the Ilevi Syndicate. An alliance of three Criminal organizations all bowing to some hidden cabal. Everyone that lived and worked in the Docks District belonged to the Ilevi.

"I got information for sale, but I gotta know who I am dealing with before I can make a deal like this."

Daven fidgeted slightly but leaned in. He was past his prime but he looked as if he had once been a tough man, probably known for running a bar that didn't tolerate any sort of shadiness. However, years of crime and a lack of proper help had visibly worn him down. Now he was cautious and unfriendly.

(OOC: Sorry not my best post just trying to get it up as fast as possible)

[Vanquaria]

Feniel Tarien

Hefting his large claymore on his back Feniel Tarien, businessman and maker of good maces, strode into a large hall. A dome overhead and adorned by numerous antique art, this was the home of a wealthy man.

'How good to see you, Mr Tarien,' the old man at the head of the dining table said.

'Good to see you too, Mr Olusk. I am here, as you are aware of already, to solidify our mutual relationship in terms of the acquisition of your private armouries.'

'I see you cut straight to the point, young Tarien.'

Sitting down at the chair presented to him by one of the host's many servants Feniel withdrew a series of documents. He was due to do battle with one of Altaeve's shadiest ''businessmen'' and failure was not an option. The atmosphere was near tense. Feniel didn't hesitate.

Aliss Tarien

A luxurious carriage drawn by white stallions of high-quality breed was swiftly heading towards the great capital.

In front and behind it were several horsemen. Each were visibly armed and quite intidimating men, to the seasoned eye it was clear they were veterans of Altaeve's distinguished guardsmen.

Aliss Tarien, a beautiful young lady of the proudly Freelander Tarien Family name, currently rested very comfortably within the enclosed carriage. Donning an expensive white coat laced with sky blue she was definitely a sight to behold. Like her brother she possessed a bunch of important papers. She was travelling to the capital not to dilly dally but to realise her ambitions.

It had been a while on the road, soon she found herself gazing at one of the dazzling rivers interconnected with the Vaemar Springs. Then, by chance, she eyed the familiar colours of weavers of the Wind Bastion. Ordering one of her guards to signal the other travellers Aliss Tarien's carriage smoothly skid to a halt.

Having attended the presitgious Weaver academy herself company with other intelligent individuals was always a satisfying way to spend your time.

'Hello, my dears!' she greeted them, eyes looking out from the carriage.

[Uzizho]

Keoron Nelros
Dueling Pit, Archon Hal

Keoron smiled as the man accepted and introduced himself. He pitched his overcoat and removed his belt bearing the sheaths for his blades. Drawing both his sword and dagger he crossed to be in front of his opponent. The lightning buildup around Alexander had Keoron move backward into a defensive pose. He channeled his flames into his sword and dagger as the lightning arced toward him.

Deflecting and sidestepping the attack Keoron advanced toward Alexander, moving into an aggressive posture and propelling himself forward ringing his flaming blade in a wide arc back around toward Alexander's left side, sweeping the sword downward slightly and aiming for his abdomen. Simultaneously Kereon moved his dagger into a guard position for the impending counter to his move. He shifted his weight putting force behind his sword while creating a dragging motion that would deflect pressure from a counter that impacted his sword ino the hand guard to allow a stronger defense following his attack.

"It's a pleasure," Keoron popped off through a smile. "I'm Keoron Nelros."

Little more needed to e said at that moment. Keoron had seen the man's strength earlier it now he could get a better sense of it. A sense more like the gladiators and warriors in Catalia and Cruxia, Deadly, and powerful, born to wage war and slay opponents with his blade, like Keoron himself.

Alexander immediately settled into a defensive stance upon seeing Keoron's charge. Most of the time, with Alexander's slim build, he would focus on dodging rather than blocking, but he wanted to get a better idea of Keoron's strength. Typically this would be a bad idea, as he could lose initiative in the fight, but he had noticed Keoron's posture indicated he anticipated a counter attack. Alexander blocked the blow, and he was immediately forced back several steps. Thankfully he maintained his balance, so he backed up even more to gain some distance. 'Big difference in strength... but that's not different than any of my other fights. Frontal assualts won't work, so let's try from the side.

Lightning coalesced in his right hand, around his channel bracelet. He threw it towards his right, and it curved towards Keoron's left side. Alexander charged forward, lightning shooting off his legs to increase his speed. Lightning surrounded his blade as chopped towards Keoron's left side. As this happened the lightning he shot divided into three bolts. One looped around to Keoron's back, another maintained its course towards Keoron's right side, and the last shot upwards before coming down towards Keoron's head from above. Due to the finesse required to manipulate lightning this way, each bolt was rather weak. At most it would paralyze his opponent for a couple seconds, but it would create an opening.

While Alexander's chop was done in such a way to utilize the most muscle possible, he only but minimal weight behind it. He was prepared to dodge to the side in case Keoron decided to break through the weakest part of this formation, him. As mentioned above, Alexander was lacking in strength compared to his opponent, so Koreon could force his way through Alexander should he choose. Alexander, however, had positioned himself in such a way that, following his dodge, he would be behind Keoron.

'What will you do?'

[New Roman Empire]

Maiden's Breasts Tavern, Docks District, Common Region

Daven Wurlt looked at the money in Liam's hand. It was a large sum, but the people he was asking about...they owned this district. He glanced around. A few knowing faces looked up at him with menacing glares. They belonged in one way or another to the Ilevi Syndicate. An alliance of three Criminal organizations all bowing to some hidden cabal. Everyone that lived and worked in the Docks District belonged to the Ilevi.

"I got information for sale, but I gotta know who I am dealing with before I can make a deal like this."

Daven fidgeted slightly but leaned in. He was past his prime but he looked as if he had once been a tough man, probably known for running a bar that didn't tolerate any sort of shadiness. However, years of crime and a lack of proper help had visibly worn him down. Now he was cautious and unfriendly.

(OOC: Sorry not my best post just trying to get it up as fast as possible)

Liam Karlani

Liam looked behind him, several people had stopped what they were doing and looked up at the bar. Well I certainly stirred up a hornet nest, I really don't like the feel I'm getting from this. But if it gets what my father wants done accomplished then, I'm going to take the risk. He looked around the room and even several of the wenches stopped to see what was going on, the place was filled with stew and ale. Many of the patrons who weren't paying attention were drunk and carrying on with whatever they were doing. Liam leaned in closer, "lets say I'm an investor looking to help the Ilevi expand their operations. I have access to vast sums of money, even a syndicate such as the Ilevi know this district only has so much money to be made. But I, I can get them into more profitable markets all I need is to meet with their leader so we can discuss the details and get an exact amount set out." Informed Liam as his free hand slowly went to the hilt of his sword, he wasn't going to get caught off guard if something were to happen. He felt better knowing at a moments notice he could draw his sword if he needed to.

[North Timeria]

Arion quickly stepped down from his horse and readied himself to fight. His Katana was much more of a weapon compared to his enemies and they had no idea of his weaving abilities. As the bandit kept mouthing off Arion heard him say something that peaked his interested.

"Since it was destroyed?" Arion repeated. He felt that maybe he could get something out of these bandits if he played his cards right.

"Listen... I'll leave on one condition. You answer a few of my questions and tell me what I want to know...also this house belongs to me, you don't touch it. Since I am the rightful owner."

Arion looked around at his surroundings searching for anything to use against the enemy. "Don't cooperate and I'll be forced to add a few more to this grave...but I'll leave one of you. I still need my questions answered."

His dog Koa barked loudly as it stood by his side ready to lunge at any attackers.

[Second Helghan Empire]

Atalaeve Forests

Seyra watched as the carriage drawn by beautiful horses came to a stop. Guards surrounded it but when Seyra heard the voice from within she recognized the speaker immediately. It had been several years but Seyra remembered the first Wind Bastion student she had met. Aliss and Seyra had only the briefest of encounters but her politeness had helped Seyra to overcome her home-sickness and grow into a strong Wind Focused weaver.

"Aliss? Hello Ms. Tarien." Seyra chirped remembering her manners.

The other scholars nodded and bowed slightly to the carriage offering their greetings in return. Many of the Scholars were former teachers from Aliss's time in the bastion and had since retired to researcher studies.

---

Maiden's Breasts Tavern

Daven waved to the fidgeting thugs and patrons behind Liam. They relaxed slightly, most turned back to their drinks and food. Daven turned his attention back to Liam.

"Nobody I ever heard of has met any leader. Whoever is at the top is a ghost, but I can set you up with someone who represents them for the right price. Meet me and them at the Mehegon Shipping Warehouse down the street from here, tonight after the guard change, the lazy Mehegon night guards will do anything for money so you will have to pay them to get in."

With that Daven gruffly removed the money from Liam's hand and slid him a large Ale as if a normal bar purchase had taken place, as if someone would pay so much for a single drink.

---

Dueling Pit, Archon Hall

Keoron was surprised by the splitting arc that Alexander used. It surrounded him and threatened from three sides. Keoron had intended to hold back on weaving his Aura, but he didn't have enough speed to deflect all of his opponents attacks with just his blades. He had size and strength over his opponent but speed and agility remained the other man's field.

With no real choice Keoron weaved his Flame Aura shielding his entire body in a defensive magical flame. The fire licked across his skin leaving him unharmed excluding a slight darkening while the weaved ability was active. The arcs of light pulsed off of the Aura as he drove forward, this time with his dagger as he prepared a more powerful attack with his sword.

Moving toward his enemy Keoron's dagger remained extended, but his sword blade sliced across the floor changing from the crimson flame to a blue heat, leaving a burnt trail behind him. However when Alexander dodged his dagger thrust, rather than shift his weight to stab with his sword he used his momentum to bring the blade up and around slashing widely after Alexander as he moved to what had been Keoron's back.

The swipe wasn't close enough to touch the other fighter directly but now the flames reached a full inch away from the weapon and all of Keoron. Hoping to catch him by surprise with the flames Keoron shifted to a more aggressive stance and moved his dagger for a secondary attack.

---

Destroyed Northern Village

"I don't think you heard us. We own this place now, we were here first and you will leave. Or we will cut you apart." One of the looters shouted while waving his rough blade in Arion's direction.

After he finished speaking he charged at Arion bringing his blade back and up for blow to Arion's head or shoulders. The other looters hollered in support of the bold attacker. They hung back and slowly spread to surround Arion.

[North Timeria]

Arion tossed his blade up to defend himself from the attack. He caught the blade right before it came down on his shoulder. Arion collapsed under the much stronger man and fell to his knees. In a very vulnerable position, he held on to his sword as long as he could as his dog Koa barked at the men surrounding him. Arion looked into the man's eyes as he stood over him.

"You put me in a tough spot here...I'm not that strong so I won't be able to hold this up forever then I'll be forced to do something I wouldn't want to. So consider this your last warning before things get ugly."

As Arion spoke to him he started to form a concentration of lighting in his left hand. As he built it up it started to glow a bit and create a distinct noise until it couldn't be ignored.

"Last chance to answer my questions."

Arion was ready to use deadly force if he had to and wouldn't hesitate to extract information from his buddies.

[Etarmoof]

Augustinius
Augustinius in his suit of black Armour and a purple cape with the Golden Eagle of house Augustinius of cloth of gold displayed prominently. 50 men in black Armour again with purple capes and the Golden Eagle fluttering on banners atop their lances thunder at a full gallop across the causeway into the city of Atalaeve. He continued through the city at a full gallop racing towards the Archons Palace, not waiting for people to get all the way, and several dashed out of the way of the galloping soldiers at the last second. The soldiers continue at full gallop until they reach the Archons Palace to the soldiers dismounted along with Augustinius his purple cape heavy from the gold embroidered into it and began to walk up the immense steps into the Archons Palace. Augustinius of rest and you still at the base of the stairs is formed of two perfect blocks of 25, 5 x 5 standing in formation, their lances perfectly erect, the banners on top fluttering making it as though the ego was flying. On his way up several of the archons guards stepped out and block his path, and said the archons could not see any visitors. Augustinius removed his black help with the Golden Eagle top and stared straight into the paladin's eyes, looking down ever so slightly.

"I must see the Archon, it's bird but I see her immediately I have ridden for 4 days to get down here and I will see her immediately." Augustinius said to the guards who blocked his path, with the concern of a true friend, perfectly disguising his contempt for the woman he was asking to see.


Concordia

Concordia entered briskly into the family's manner a short ride from the city. She again wears the pristine white dress, and the courtyard outside the manner the 200 soldiers set to work patrolling the manner the lands, feeding and watering the horses, and resting after their long journey south. Concordia briskly walks into the library, books tower on either side seemingly going on forever in the immense room, hiding in the shadows cast over the poorly lit room is a small rather fat man, a cloak disguising his face.

"Madam, it is a pleasure to see your elegance is always." A soft silky voice mused.

"Tell me what are the going on's in the city?" Concordia says coldly and to the point.

"Don't two old friends get to have at least a few moments of pleasantries with you, Madam."

"It is vital my brothers meeting with the archon as we speak. I must knows we can plan for any eventuality."

"Well the archon's health has been slowly recovering, though I can't imagine your brother meeting with her, seeing as only how adivisors and her children have seen, and of course myself. I hope another thing in the small noble family by the name Karlani have sent out a son by the name Liam give a donation to a palidin, and has met with some unsavoury characters meeting some sort of agreement, I don't quite know what." His silky voice continues, never once moving from the shadows, never once showing his face.

"Where did he meet with these unsavoury characters?" Concordia said, and stepped in closer intrigued.

"I believe it was called the Maidens Breasts. So I talked they're still there."

"Servant!" Concordia yells towards the doors to the library, and a servant quickly opens the doors.

"Yes my lady?"

"Ready my horse and two guards I leave as soon as I'm done here."

"Your wish is my command, my lady."

The young servant closed the door and ran to do his mistresses bidding. Concordia turned and faced the shadowed man.

"Is anything else that needs my attention."

"Well a young weaver is gone in a rampage in the Archons dueling pits." The shadowed man said giggling.

Concordia turns and again briskly walks towards her white mare mounts and rode into the city, two guards following close behind, the golden eagle shown prominently on their purple cloaks.