[center][img]https://i.imgur.com/KBBwK0P.png[/img][/center][b][u][center][h3][url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KELbXO6kpw4]☽☾ BGM ☽☾[/url][/h3][/center][/u][/b]While everyone else seemed to be able to feel the tension in the air of the Nexus, no matter where on it they were, one being was seeking for answers on the only place she knew that she could find them. This being was none other than Iona, the Dark Archangel that normally served as Celestia's guard dog, or rather, it's constable. After a walk that seemed far longer than it actually was, she finally arrived at her destination. Sure, Iona could have just teleported into there, but the being she was seeking to was someone she was far too much dedicated to, she would never do something as uncivilized as coming in by teleportation while unannounced.[center][img]http://i.imgur.com/ST60N0A.png[/img][/center][color=daa520]"Master, excuse my unannounced return,"[/color] Iona said, bowing to the being before her. [color=daa520]"I have come in search of answers."[/color]

[color=f26522]"You have come to the right place, my disciple."[/color]

As darkness faded away to reveal light, Iona would find herself standing in the presence of a grand viewing. A realm of twisting blacks and whites that morphed and reflected off the very surface of the air. And rising high in a united circle around the woman were thirteen great thrones, although only eleven inhabited these seats. Figures of different sizes and stature sat in place, all of them looking down upon the Dark Archangel. Although they varied in attire and aura, they shared one common trait; the masks that concealed their features. The one who had spoken to Iona was adorned in blackened battle armor highlighted with colors of orange painting its details. A crimson fabric of sort was draped over his shoulders and split to each of his sides, as if resembling wings. He turned his [url=http://i.imgur.com/IN1DiSW.jpg]masked face[/url] once more towards Iona. [color=f26522]"You come here seeking clarity. We are happy to provide."[/color]

[color=daa520]"There are many unknown movements happening on the Nexus at this moment. I believe that they have found their way in after all this time and seek to harm our cause,"[/color] Iona said, regarding the recent invasion of the Nexus by Helena and her group. [color=daa520]"Furthermore, a being that may or may not be related to them has recently risen up again, her very existence is a threat to the fabric of Nexus' reality. It shall not be an immediate problem while the Snake of the World remains on our side however, how long will it last?"[/color]

[color=daa520]"The Wisdom I seek is regarding this crisis. If it's not properly dealt with, all of the Nexus stands on the way of a massive battle that will likely lead it to its destruction,"[/color] she added before going quiet once more.

[color=pink]"Pfft, so what? If this popsicle stand blows up, we can just move our little experiements somewhere else,"[/color] said a voice to Iona's left from one of the masked beings.

[color=red]"And waste all of that time and effort? No thanks! If anything, we need to preserve this piece as long as possible to yield the results we want,"[/color] said another voice.

[color=8882be]"Fufufu, I don't see why we can't just blow the whole thing up,"[/color] snickered yet another.

However, all bickering ceased when the masked being residing in the highest throne raised a hand. Even Iona's master turned to hear what their Superior had to say on the matter. [color=silver]"Indeed, we have put much time and resource into this project of ours. However, if those who inhabit the Nexus are not powerful enough to deal with Helena's tactics, then they are not worthy of our actions as saviours,"[/color] the deep voice said, echoing throughout the chamber. [color=silver]"Do not fret Archangel. For as long as the Snake and the Eel are under our thumb, this excursion will not be in vain,"[/color] the masked man finished, turning to face the two empty thrones among their number.

[color=f26522]"The creature you speak of is the same as you,"[/color] Iona's master said once their Superior had spoken his piece. [color=f26522]"I'm sure you can see that her...rudimentary nature is more akin to Helena's liking. That does not mean she can't be swayed to our side. Even if the Nexus is to be destroyed, those we have observed will be able to obtain their reward in the end."[/color]

[color=daa520]"Indeed, I have faith in your words, Master,"[/color] Iona said, raising her head. [color=daa520]"Though I cannot guarantee the being's cooperation, I can assure that, if she doesn't join our cause, she'll not become one of Helena's lackeys as well. I have prepared the most efficient stage for this to happen. All factors considered, we will be able to manipulate the Triumvirate to our use and, if it comes to it,"[/color] Iona summoned her swords besides her, before gazing towards her master with a smile of anticipation that was rarely seen by anyone else but he, the only being who knew Iona's true nature.

[color=daa520]"I'm willing to become your blade once more,"[/color] she said.