[center][img]https://cdn.discordapp.com/attachments/316675677103325186/670060905408626708/unknown.png[/img]
[color=red]Current Location[/color] - [color=cyan]Destination[/color][/center]

Allard grumbled irritatedly at the mess he now was, though at least the best seemed to be down for good this time. He tried to rinse off what he could in the water, but he still felt he needed a proper bath and clean clothes, it would go a long way. He made his way to the raft and sat down with his legs crossed in one of the corners. Everything needed seemed to be loaded up and ready, they just needed to cross.

Dremmick let go of his paralysis ritual, taking a deep breath as he recovered. The three skeletal creatures, that seemed to not be chomping at the middle hydra head's neck, which had cut off it's final cries, seemed to instantaneously fall apart. He looked at the hydra for a while before making his way to it, multiple long slender blades of blood seemed to reach out from his body like crimson arms. He casually started descaling the hydra, collecting a large number of the scales into a pile rather quickly. When able, He would use a large rough sack from the supply cart to store the scales. Once that was finished, Dremmick took a place next to his horse on the raft.

Lynn was already at the center of the raft, waving to Nailah to come sit next to her, however, something stopped Nailah before she left. It was Shye, holding on to one arm in a bit of an akward stance as she wasn't sure what to say. She was blushing a bit, but whatever was on her mind seemed to be imporant. [color=DC143C]"Nailah, wait... before you go....Aeden got a message sent to him during the fight. He is wanted back wherever his base is, with me in tow it would seem,"[/color] she started with a bit of uncertainty. [color=DC143C]"I just.... I wanted to thank you and the others, for everything you all have done for me, however small or grand, it... it really means a lot. We seem to be going back to Sunfire in Vrondi, which means that I will get to be reunited with my son once more! I hope that I may ctually be able to be the mother I should have been for him this whole time..."[/color] She paused as she thought for a moment and looked back up to Nailah, [color=DC143C]"Promise me, if I am still around, that you come looking for me at the orphanage there?"[/color]

[color=C86050]"No more surprises... I hope..."[/color] Nailah said, rolling her eyes as she heard Allard confirming that this time, the Hydra was really dead. It had really taken them by surprise but fortunately, no one was wounded. Allard and a few others started to gather materials from the dead Hydra as it gave it's final, dying cry.

[color=C86050]"A bath doesn't sound that bad now, does it?"[/color] Nailah said, teasing Allard as she giggled, looking the mess he was.

Nailah saw Lynn waving to her, asking her to sit next to her on the raft. The moment she was about to go though, Shye interrupted her. She was blushing a bit, but she definitely had something to tell to her. Nailah was... partially aware of Shye's circumstances. She knew just what Shye herself had told them but she knew enough to know that her situation wasn't exactly happy or pleasant. It was a good surprise when she heard from Shye's own mouth that she was going back to Sunfire to get reunited with her son once more. Shye's words came out as incredibly honest and sincere as she thanked for everything the group did for her. Even though it was undoubtedly a farewell, it was a happy one.

Nailah gave Shye a tight hug, after she finished, looking to her with a kind smile.

[color=C86050]"He is your son, Shye. Your love for him isn't something that can be measured or even understood by anyone but you both."[/color] Nailah said.

[color=C86050]"You two will be a family once again... And with a new member too, right?"[/color] Nailah continued.

[color=C86050]"Oh, and I promise I will visit you both. After all, I haven't been introduced to your son yet, right? I'm sure he will love all the stories I have to tell him!"[/color] Nailah finished as she gave Shye one more hug.

Shye held the hug for a long while, some tears forming. [color=DC143C]"I just can't help but think that this was supposed to last longer, I really looked forward to traveling with all of you for just a little bit more,"[/color] she finally released and moved to holding Nailah's hands in her own. [color=DC143C]"This is for the best anyway... Fotia is a place I should never return to. I should get going. I pray you will all be careful."[/color] Shye let go and gave a polite bow before wiping her tears and then turning to leave, often looking back to the group as she did.

[h1][i]Across the River...[/i][/h1]
[hr]

Time Stamp: 9:15 PM

Thankfully for this groups remaining members the river was not capsized by the rushing waves due to the Lassa. There were also no stones to pierce and break the raft. This was due to how deceptively deep the river was. However the raft was not stable enough to keep every item safe from water and packed on the raft. A few items were missing when the group arrived to the edge of the river. Before them was a continuation of the beautiful flat lands seen in Gaia however there was the daunting mountain ahead surrounded in forest.

Night had fallen on the group. Algimar leaped from the raft to land eagerly wanting to get off of its unstable footing. Being on solid land felt so much better and he did not envy the Tearians life style. He had his things which were carried on his person. His eyes had a feint glow as it pierced the dark. He searched the land around them, sniffing the air. "It seems clear..." He began walking forward. To gain a good distance from the river. Now would be a good time to begin camping. Though he did not plan to sleep.

Once they made it across and found a suitable place to camp, Allard let out a sigh as he plopped onto the ground next to a tree. What a day this turned out to be, he never expected to be fighting a hydra of that scale so soon, but at least they made it out alright. He looked down to the dragon egg that was in his lap, having held onto it as they crossed the river. He wondered if taking such a thing with him was actually best for the budding creature. especially if heading to Fotia.

Lynn seemed a little bummed out. A number of the group had left for various reasons of importance, and while she understood, it still didn't sit well with her, especially Tali. It seemed the magoi had wanted her to come back for something urgent. Dremmick had proposed it may have had something to do with what was going on at the mountain, but it still didn't make things feel any better. With Shye leaving, it felt a bit bittersweet, but only a little. While there was another person less to talk to, it seemed that things were going to turn out well for her, she remembered her smiling as she waved goodbye. 

Dremmick had helped offload the raft of various horses and the carriage for Lynn, everything seemed in order. The truth of the matter was, he was exhausted. He put out a lot of soul energy into what he did, but it seemed to have paid off. Nobody was really hurt, and everyone made it across alright. Allard seemed to have the right idea as he plopped down, slumped against a tree.  Dremmick soon carefully sat down as well, taking a breather before getting camp set up. He didn't want to sleep around the rest of the group if he did. He wasn't sure what would happen. the last time he slept himself, he didn't wake up so well. The other time he was waking from unconsciousness.  What if he had that dream again? He should find a place away from the others when he goes to rest for the night. It would probably be safer that way, and make for less to explain later.

Finally making across the river and dealing with the Hydra, the group had found a nice place to camp after a busy day filled with unexpected situations. Truth be told, it was indeed quite exhausting and Nailah was happy that she had some time to relax before they had to move on again tomorrow.

It was indeed a shame that Shye and Aeden, coupled with a few others from the group had to leave, for various reasons and Nailah did notice how Lynn was a bit sad due to that, especially when Tali left. Other than Nailah herself, Tali was incredibly close to Lynn and her departure indeed left Lynn in low spirits. Nailah had spent most of the trip across the river and most of the time while the others were putting up camp trying to cheer up Lynn. Even though some had left, there were still a lot of interesting things that could happen and new people for Lynn to meet in the future, but she didn't know if it had worked at all...

When Nailah spotted Allard, near a tree, taking care of his dragon egg almost like a mother, she had an idea that maybe could help Lynn to feel a bit better.

[color=C86050]"Lynn, I know you're still feeling a bit down because a few people left, but would you like to try and help Allard to take care of his dragon egg?"[/color] Nailah asked, smiling kindly as she looked to Lynn.

[color=C86050]"I'm quite good at warming things up and I'm sure that your voice would help to calm down the small dragon. What do you say?"[/color] she asked, waiting for Lynn's answer.

Lynn slowly looked up to Nailah and and had to clear her throat before speaking up, [color=7FFFD4]"Y-yes, I would like that...,"[/color] she said replied, giving her a slight smile in return. Quietly, she floated her way over to Allard, who seemed to had started to fall asleep already, the egg in his lap with one arm cradling it, making it look tiny in his arm where it would take both hands for lynn to carry it alone. 

Lynn approached Allard and rest a hand on his legs, which caused him to stir and look down to Lynn, even though he was sitting. [color=9ACD32]"Oi, lass. Holdin' up alright? That took quite fine control bringin' tha raft cross tha river."[/color]

[color=7FFFD4]"Oh! It was the least I could do after everyone fought the hydra. But what about you, how is the egg?"[/color] Lynn asked, causing Allard to stare down at it, closing his eyes as if concentrating on what he could feel.

[color=9ACD32]"The dragon inside is a bit restless it seems. All the commotion getting ta it, been squirmin' since we got on the raft. Thought maybe finding somewhere comfortable may help it settle down, looks like I settled down before it did, eh?"[/color] she said, chuckling to himself.

Lynn took a step forward and placed a hand on the egg, feeling the same thing. [color=7FFFD4]"If you would like, Nailah and I can watch over it while you rest. We thought maybe she could keep it warm while I sing to it. Maybe I can at least calm [i]it[/i] down,"[/color] she said referring to her past failed songs today.

[color=9ACD32]"Well now, that sounds like a good idea, little lullaby may be just what it needs," Allard agreed. He stood up and took the egg to where the two girls were earlier. He did sit somewhere close, however, so that he could listen as well.

Lynn would wait for Nailah to be ready with the egg before she would start her song. It was an old lullaby tale for children about their father going off to set sail to explore some unknown territory…..

[i][h1]Night Passes...[/h1][/i]

Time Stamp: 6:00 AM

The break of sunlight. The chirping of birds replacing the sound of crickets. The air from over the mountains breathed a chill over those sleeping anywhere near the river. The waters rush never silencing. Algimar was already awake by the group's fire. Holding something he caught in the field while scouting on a stick. He calmly waited for the others to awaken. He would tell the first person he could about the camp of bandits he saw northeast of here. In fact, for those perceptive enough to notice, the trail of fire from afar would be visible from the bandit's own fire. He knew that this flame of theirs was risky. It was possible even that the battle with the Hydra might have alerted their scouts already.

Algimar contemplated the objective and how the group struggled to stay together even under the stress of the obstacles before them. It was becoming clear to him, as he watched the sunrise over the mountains of Gaia and Fotia's border. That he would have to assure the legendary item the King of Vrondi saught would be claimed by the Nero kingdom. No doubt the others who were loyal to their kingdom would be doing the same. In the end. If Nuxta is able to be defeated. The victory would go to either one kingdom or them all. Ensuring a new order of either peace or dominance. The spoils of this war would be the entire world...

[i][h1]Earlier in Nero...[/h1][/i]
[hr][hider=Slithering into the unknown[/hider]
[i][color=lightgreen]Slithering into the dark..[/color][/i]

[center][img]https://i.pinimg.com/originals/7d/ca/62/7dca622f972bd7ac1271f10693fedfbf.jpg[/img][/center]

Alright, this was it. Ni'ra would finally be able to enter Nero. She tried to ask the guards nicely if she could enter many times before, but they were awfully persistant unless she had official business or a pass of some sort. Well, now she had official business, a letter given to her to deliver on the basilisk queen's behalf! How lucky could she be!

Ni'ra was nearly floating on air when she came to the front gates. It had to be the same people as always, as they always looked the same. Some strange clunky shelled descendents. Sometimes the shell would open to reveal eyes and sometimes a face.

"Ello, iz Ni'ra again! Ni'ra requezt permizzion to enter, haz letter from bazilizk queen for King Zleeth!" She excitedly drew a letter and showed it to the guards, official seal and all. "Ni'ra enter pleaze?" Ni'ra would hold out the letter alternating to both until one moved up to take a look at it, handing it to that guard should they take it.

The guards were well armored but it was light compared to some other kingdoms. They were fit to frame and seemed capable in an agile situation. They took the letter from her. It was sealed with a official seal despite where it came from. To be left unopened until recieved by royalty. They gestured her in. The gates opened and she was allowed into Nero's lower district. The earlier dragon attack was still visible. A lot of debris was cleaned up but the people remained busy.
Ni'ra thankz you!" she giggled excitedly as they opened the gates, craning her head at different angles to see as much as she could as the gates cracked open. She bowed to the guards as the one handed her the letter back and she nearly skipped inside.

 Once inside, she saw the city for all its worth. Even as demolished in sections as it was, to her it was unlike anything she has ever seen. "Ni'ra iz ssssso excited!" she said giddily as she held the letter close to her chest in a little hug like manner. Ni'ra may have been headed towards the castle, but there were so many things on the way there to see as well! Placing the letter back in a pouch she continued. After all, she couldn't possibly give up her only chance here to see what was in the city!

The girl did not know it but where she walked through was by far the darkest district of any kingdom. Wounded soldiers. Fed by the kingdom for giving it their lives, watched as Ni'ra went by. Their bleak presence was only the beginning. There was debris and rubble scattered about still being wheeled away in heeps by some poor soul. It was clear through the wailing and moaning that a battle was fought here. One that affected all of Nero's kingdom. Or so it seemed as she would continue. The feint sound of a slow violin could be heard in the upper districts where she was headed.

Ni'ra had to fught with herself to stay even somewhat on task. The curious basilisk couldn't help but every once and a while get cliser to the rubble people worked on, her tongue flucking oht, pucking up strange sensations, though she wasn't sure what they belinged to. If she noticed she was being watched, she would wave to whoever it was and  keep moving, sometimes looking back to the person who was staring at her, and wace again. If they didn't wave, this would come as a surprise to Ni'ra, and would cause her to very slightly recoil, looking at her hand as if there was something wrong with what she did. Maybe her hand was dirty? No? Strange indeed....

Soon along her travels though, she was stopped by a new sound. This was.... quite odd! Yet... soooothing. It would change pitch here and there, and it followed some sort of pattern, like a bird that was holding its notes out, but like a hum instead of a whistle. Ni'ra [i]had[/i] to investigate this, and lucky for her it was in the direction she needed to go! She picked up the pace as she hurried to see what was making such interesting sounds.

A man in refined clothes stood before a building that was pummeled with debris. He went away at the sounds of the violin. A slow deep sorrowful sound he felt visibly in his face. His fangs visible through gritted teeth. Crimson piercing pupils narrowly visible beneath his low eye lids. His long black hair and horns were like a pure onyx. Dark with shine. His attire was mostly black as well, but the tears and holes in them were matched by dirty shoes. He remained where he was even as others passed by. Holding their childrens hands to hurry along. What he was doing seemed harmless enough. Even if he didn't work on his shops revival. For now he seemed to be getting something out.

Ni'ra's eyes and ears seemed to lock onto the man. What was he doing? What was that device he had? Did [i]that[/i] make the sounds? How? It was soothing yet... from the way the man looked accompanied with the tones, there was a sorrowful tone to it. How could a sound make her feel such a way? Ni'ra slow edged closer and closer, her curious mind buzzing with questions but too transfixed on the display that she couldn't bare to interrupt. Instead, she sat on her haunches,balancing on the balls of her feet, knees together and her arms folded as she stared in wonder.

Every once in a while her tongue would flick out, by both habit and her mind wondering if this was some sort of pheromone that stirred these feelings or if it was just purely the sound. She wasn't picking up anything different than the things she noticed coming into the city. Whenever the man would stop playing Ni'ra would instantly ask him what that was. "What iz thing!? Make soundz! Iz magic? Ni'ra never hear before, never see before! Iz, uh, interessssting!"

"Oh it's just my violin." He said while placing it next to a chair he had sitting a few feet away from him. He placed what no doubt looked like a stick to Ni'ra next to the violin. Sitting down he took a white cloth from within his vest and wiped his forehead. "I believe music is one of the purest forms of magic. Now. If you don't mind I have to keep playing." He took a breathe and picked up his violin and continued playing his slow precise tone that weeped as it rang.

"V-vfi...via, FEH!" she quietly exclaimed in frustration as she tried to sound out and form her mouth right to make the word, after all, her mouth was different than a normal descendant and she had to nearly learn how to make some sounds in her own way. "V-vi-oh-lin! Heh! Violin! Violin, iz nice! Like lots! Thank you!" she said as she got up from her squatting position and began to leave. She couldn't keep herself from turning and looking back at the man every few step, however, still entranced in the sounds the instrument made.

Many citizens outside their shops had brooms sweeping up left over debris piles. Thankfully the upper districts were the best looking district not only visibly financially but having been saved from the wreckage of the Dragon battle it remained entirely intact. There was little in the way of a passerby even if they were a foreign oddity. The sounds varied as children were more strictly regulated to the inside of these regal buildings all lined next to one another. The moans and cries were behind Ni'ra however as she neared the middle of the upper districts and to the castle gates. Where two guards stood in wait.

Ni'ra retrieved the letter from one of her pouches before reaching the guards. Slowly, she made her way to them, but she was still oggling all the buildings, the likes of which she has never seen before. She started to have the though of seeing what they looked like inside, but luckily she reached the guards before that thought came to fruition. She gave a respectful bow before presenting the letter to the guards. "Ni'ra iz name! Zent to give letter! From bazilizk queen to Nero king. Iz here, eh? Waz told give in person," she said happily as she let the guards look over the letter.[/hider]

[hider=The Blooded Castle]
[color=lightgreen]Entering the Castle…[/color]

The Guards stood perfectly still. Their armor was black along with the cloth beneath it. Within the shadows they would be invisible. All save for their piercing red eyes that observed the sealed letter whilst holding it. One of the guards gestured to those standing up high. They stood among the gargoyles. Watching and waiting. They raised the gates open. This allowed Ni'ra and one guard accompanying her to apprach the castle via a decent stretch of a path. Decorated with flowers both crimson and black all scattered within poisonous dark ivy green and glowing purple veined bushes. The visual beauty was tailored to astound but the smell was even more elegant and regal. The royals loved the beaty of a deadly thing. The castle front doors now opened. Massive as they were, as if a giant had lived within, it moved rather quickly. Allowing Ni'ra into the main reception room, where many guards and a few idle royals could be seen. Ni'ra would be taken to another guard within the large dimly lit room. One could feel the winds of a dark cavern similar to the ones outside of Nero's capital within this place. As many halls leading else where were all connected to this room. A room that seemed made of a black crystal and lit with purple flame torches within the mouths of stone basilisks. Whether these statues were once real or not was a mystery. But the head of a few basilisk were hung on the high walls all over. Basilisk skulls you would not want to run into outside of Nero's walls.
"This way." A guard spoke. Bringing her down a specific hallway. Onward they would walk, for what would feel like a maze for at least twenty minutes. Before reaching a large metal door. A knock on the door would echo through the hallways before silence. "We wait." The guard said.

Nira was fascinated by the flowers, and she would have touched them if it hadn't been for the guard continuing on, making her try to keep up with him instead. Her tongue flicked out constantly, picking up all sorts of new chemicals and pheromones to sort out, she was even able to identify the poison that was in the ivy. WHen they reached the stone basilisks, Ni'ra saw them as just that, stone, and was in awe of the craftsmanship. The breeze as well made her close her eyes and take it in. "Breeze nice, iz Like Ni'ra home-," but that was all she got out before she opened her eyes and saw terror she did not plan to see.

Skulls and heads of other basilisk were mounted on the high walls, causing Ni'ra to wail out in fright. "Wha, no no no, what thiz!? Wh-... why iz there..." Ni'ra's knees nearly gave out on her at the sudden assault of thoughts going through her head. Why would they do this? Wasn't the war hundreds of years ago? Is what they said about descendants true, them being the enemy that slaughters them? But nobody has attacked her so far....but.... and that one man with the violin was nice, but what was this doing here? Why would her queen send her to this place?

Ni'ra nearly tripped but recovered herself as she followed along. she didn't know why she did at this point, if it was obedience through fear or because she felt duty bound to complete her task. She wanted to leave, to run. She didn't want to be another mount on the wall. It made her feel nauseated. "N-Ni'ra iz not feeling well. Sssshe wantz to leave letter and go home," she said, trying to keep her eyes on the ground so she wouldn't see the horror again, her arms wrapped around herself nervously as she stood next to the gaurd. She wasn't shaking was she?


The guard said not a word or even seemed to notice Ni'ra's predicament. He or she simply waited. Watching. Once the door opened the guard gestured her to follow. Walking down a narrow dark hall with a bright light at the end of it. They both would eventually end up at a circular center. There blood stains were on the ground. But three figures were in this sort of circular stage. Surrounding them were the royals of Nero. They watched intently as Ni'ra and the guard walked into the light. "A Basilisk messenger has arrived." The guard handed Ni'ra back the letter. "You may present it before the King." Said the guard, his voice stern and uncaring.

Freyr saw the whole thing unfold. The brief interruption made Freyr snap out of his brief trance, triggered by the sudden realization of his new ability. He stepped back a little the moment everyone turned their attention to the new arrival. For a moment, he thought about slipping out. However, the sensations he felt when he was near the King stopped him. He wanted more. If he could stand beside him forever, he'd jump at the chance.

Ni'ra's eyes were wide as she looked around the room, her tongue seeming not to stop flicking, picking up on botu curious things and signals of danger. She seened startled when asked to read the letter. Her head tilted at it. "N-Ni'ra iz not able to read. Ztill learnink. Zorry, Ni'ra issssss nearvouz. Zaw...zkullz," she said as she fumbled with the letter, breaking the seal. She looked at it and couldn't make heads or tails of it. She shook her head. "Can no read, iz juzt for deliver," she added nearvously.

After she spoke the guard bowed before the King. Who sat down on his high chair formed from ebony. "May I read it sire?" The king gestured a 'get on with it'. So the letter was taken from Ni'ra by the guard. "To the lords of Nero. Descended from dark. I am Nuxta. I have taken control of the Basilisks. My horde grows. But I seek only to balance this world. Join me and t-" "THATS ENOUGH!!" The Kings voice echoed almost through the kingdom. He stood to his feet.. he looked to Ni'ra though no eyes could be seen on his masked face. "Its more important now than ever to strengthen our ranks and our bloodlines." His head turned to all the room. To Anui, to Freyr. His head even pausing at the end of his sentence on Lila and when done looked to Dextra who sat across from her. He pointed to Ni'ra. "Shadow guard... Kill her."

Freyr was unfazed by the situation. Was that dumb creature in the middle was a Basilisk? That was new. Regardless of her origins, she had brought a message threatening the kingdom as a whole. If anything would send a message to this 'Basilisk Queen' it would be the death of her messenger. However, this was also an opportunity...

"My Lord." Freyr spoke up, stepping forward a little while bowing his head in the King's direction. "Allow me to show gratitude for this gift. I'll kill her for you."[/hider]
[hider=Spare]
[color=Red]The merciful rose’s plea on a snakes behalf . .. .[/color]

Lila could almost feel the other royals eyes upon the new blood. The scene going on before her was... strangely familiar. She had felt those judging eyes before, their bloodlust, everything... This time though, she wasn't the only one receiving them. The air was heavy as the ceremony continued. He would soon experience everything Lila did when Anui first gave her sight. For a Nayu, who was born into the dark, receiving that gift could be a gift... or a curse. She knew that very well...

The ceremony's end was announced by the King as he raised his hand, dismissing the new royal with a cold, annoyed tone. King Sleeth's very presence wasn't one easily ignored, despite missing an entire arm. After receiving the gift of sight, the new royal couldn't help but feel fear, facing such a surge of power. Even though he was looking at Anui, it was easy for those looking at him to realize he wasn't really looking at Anui, but to the person behind him... The king himself. 

Looking towards Anui, Lila waited for his return. As he opened his mouth to tell something to the new royal though, a guard's voice echoed through the room, breaking the silent that still lingered in the air even after the ceremony had ended. As he announced the presence of a messenger, bringing a letter from the basilisk queen, a surprisingly innocent basiliskin girl walked forward. It wasn't hard to see how nervous and startled the poor girl was. Even a complete stranger that never had entered Nero before would immediately understand that a basilisk or even a basiliskin presence in Nero wasn't something that would be tolerated... Just as the poor messenger girl said, the skulls were enough of a hint. Breaking the seal, she seemed to stumble with her words, saying she wasn't able to read and instead was simply asked to deliver it.
Not much was needed for one to realize that the basiliskin messenger was being sent towards her own death by her ruler. Unfortunately, the naive girl didn't seem to know so, judging by her words and actions. She was betrayed by her own kind... As the guard began reading the message she had brought after the basilisk girl awkwardly told them she was still learning how to read and coulnd't read the message yet, Lila could only close her eyes, shaking her head in disappointment. It was a letter from Nuxta saying that the basilisks were now one more of his allies...

King Sleeth didn't even let the guard finish reading the letter before he interrupted him, his voice echoing through the room as he did so. His eyes wandered through the royals as he made a speech about how they needed to get stronger in such times. As he did so, Lila noticed many of the royals flinching as his heavy stare weighted upon them. Surprisingly enough, he didn't seem to be oblivious about who Lila was and had enough interest to even stop for a moment when his eyes met hers. Instead of flinching or averting their gazes like some other royals, Lila simply looked back at the King, until he moved towards Dextra.
When he gave his next order, to kill the messenger girl, Lila couldn't help but frown. Not only she didn't particularly like that decision, to kill someone who was just a messenger and clearly was oblivious to even the contents of the message, but was also sent to her own death, but for Lila, she would be more useful for them alive than dead... She wasn't surprised as the new royal offered to kill her himself, as a 'gift' to the king. He seemed to be just another royal like the others. Thirsty for power, blood and recognition. Eager to do anything to please the King... Maybe it was too unrealistic for Lila to expect anything different. Nero was still corrupted to it's core and neither her nor Anui would be able to do anything yet... For now, they had to dance with the music and patiently wait for their chance. That said, despite everything that happened, she was now a royal and her position as such was undeniable. While killing that basiliskin girl would be nothing but needless bloodshed, she could maybe use her position as a noble not only to save her life, but to show the royals that bloodshed wasn't always the only answer..

[color=C6DEFF]"Killing the messenger... might be a mistake... My king..."[/color] Lila's voice echoed through the room, piercing the silence. She was the only one who was willing to speak against the King's decision. 
Lila knew that she wasn't just a weapon anymore, nor just Anui's wife... She was a Royal... The sole survivor and leader of the Moriarty family. Her words, for the first time, held some importance and weight. Even though it was difficult for Lila to speak like that, she had no choice if she wanted to be respected and have influence amongst the Nayu Royals. Anui's words echoed through her mind as she prepared herself to continue. His desire, his hopes for her future by his side... Anui was hoping to make her a queen... For that to happen though, she had to learn how to be more than just a silent shadow or a weapon...
 
[color=C6DEFF]"Nuxta's forces grow once again. This may be an opportunity to better understand our enemies and their weaknesses."[/color] Lila continued, giving a step forward as she let herself be heard by the king and all present as she very delicately and discreetly lowered her head.
 
[color=C6DEFF]"This basiliskin girl was sent to her death by her queen. She might be innocent and naïve, but she has nowhere to return, My king. If she pledges alliance to you, my king, giving her the right to exact her revenge will benefit us as well."[/color] Lila continued.
 
[color=C6DEFF]"She can be trained, help us to fight against Nuxta's allies. The sight of a basiliskin killing basilisks will instill fear in the other basilisks. If not... At least she will be useful in teaching us more about our enemies."[/color] Lila finished.
 
[color=C6DEFF]"One of my bloodline's special abilities is to see one's memories and feelings the moment I consume their blood. With your permission, I am able to tell if she is willing to pledge alliance to you or not. Lying will be useless against this ability."[/color] Lila said, waiting for the King's reply to her words.
Ni'ra listened as the guard read the letter, [color=808000]"Nooks-tah? Feh, what iz a 'Nooks-tah'? What mean by take contro-,"[/color] she started to ask, but was cut off when the king stopped the guard from reading further. She flinched at the suddeness of it, looking back up to him. He made a brief statement to those around him before pointing back at her.... ordering the guard to kill her. [color=808000]"WHA!? N-no wait! Ni'ra not underztand, what do wrong!? Ni'ra iz zorry, no mean harm!"[/color] she pleaded as she slowly backed away in fear from the bloodthirsty descendants. [color=808000]"Why!? N-Ni'ra no want to be on wall!"[/color] she said as she panicked, her eyes started to dart all around looking for a way out, and keeping cautious of would be attackers. She didn't however, reach for the blade she had with her. She didn't emit any signs of hostility whatsoever, she just wanted to run. She was too scared at the moment to even notice Lila's conversation.

The guard had already pulled its blade as the king spoke. It was no mystery to the King, the guards or most of the royals what would happen to the Basiliskin from the moment she walked into this Kingdoms walls. She would not leave alive. Interrupting the Guard was Freyr. His words put a smile on the Kings face. He halted the guard with a single gesture. "You may do the honor new blood..." The King and the others now watched with renewed excitement. Only to be taken aback by Lila. Who was the o only one who spoke up in protest. Either out of bravery or foolishness. Either way it put all attention on her red head. 

Anui felt a twinge of fear. Nearly biting his lips he shuddered at the thought of Lila being brutalized by the King. He was not in his best of moods. The entire Kingdom was being threatened and even recently was under attack. Needless to say their lord Sleeth was not a happy King. If only there was a ways to avoid his wrath. 

The King scoffed. "Do you think me unwise? Our kingdom weak? We needn't the lowly blood of a viper. She could only serve as a testament to the failures of Nuxta and the Basilisk alike." He looked to Anui. "Go on nephew. Say it. I feel your blood. It rushes with fear. I taught you better than to hide in fear." Anui felt his Kings, his uncles eyes on him. Humbly Anui raised his head to speak. "Perhaps my wife has been a bit rash my lord. She only intends to aid us all." The King remained silent in acceptance before lashing out with an angry shout. "Should I remove her tongue then!?" Anui bowed. "Please no. While the blood of this creature is not even fit for drinking she can serve us. Not as a warrior but as a servant. Forever. Just as the other Basilisks. She and I can assure this." He awaited his Kings response whilst looking at the ground.

When Freyr stepped forward, he drew one of his daggers. Now that he could see, he could appreciate the intricate carving on the sturdy wooden handle. The blade was sharpened and cleaned to perfection. A single cut in the right spot and at the right speed could kill. With one swift movement he could cut down the Basillisk female. Spill her blood for his King. But any plans he had to impress his Lord were foiled by Lila and the King's own nephew. Even though he wanted to step forward and allow his feelings to be heard, he kept his mouth shut. Freyr didn't know how Sleeth would react if he confronted Anui. Even if it showed his undying loyalty to his Lord, he could accidently offend him. Making this whole effort pointless. 

Freyr looked over to the King. If he ordered it, he wouldn't hesitate to cut Ni'ra down. He'd make it quick.

Lila didn't let herself be phased by the king's words as he threatened to remove her tongue. She knew how dangerous her situation was... At first, the main motive for her interference was because she was shaken by her own emotions. Even being just a stranger, the basiliskin woman was so ingenuous, so innocent and naïve... Killing her just because she brought a message seemed to be just wrong for Lila. But now... she truly saw an opportunity to not only learn more about Nuxta, the basilisks, who were their new enemies, but also to get closer to Sleeth, prove herself to be capable to him and to other royals... If she was successful, many more opportunities would open for her and the day Anui would be able to take the throne to finally be able to make the changes Nero needs, to purge all the corruption from the city would get closer...

[color=C6DEFF]"I lived my entire life amongst seraphim who saw me as less than a person. Training and being shaped as a weapon. I was called a beast, a monster, Mirror's hunting dog, hated merely for being a Nayu. I am quite familiar with being used as a weapon. And I know very well that everything and everyone can be used."[/color] Lila said. She knew that she was on a dangerous position, facing the king himself.

[color=C6DEFF]
"I didn't mean to offend, my king, nor I meant to say that Nero is a weak kingdom. I always try to be as effective as possible. Eliminating any possible variables is always an important key to the success."[/color] Lila said, bowing her head.
[color=C6DEFF]"I don't wish to see any more Nayu lives taken by Nuxta and his allies nor see Nero suffer like it did..."[/color] Lila said, clearly referring to the time when Nero was attacked by a powerful dragon.

[color=C6DEFF]"My sole purpose is to eliminate my, our enemies with a single, swift strike. As effortlessly and efficiently as possible. A clean and precise strike, my king, eliminating any unnecessary effort or risk."[/color] Lila continued, looking to Sleeth with a fierce determination in her eyes. Even though the king and Lila had different views regarding what Nero should become in the future, her desire to protect it and her people was the same.

[color=C6DEFF]"There is no need for us to dirty our hands with unnecessary bloodshed if we know exactly which key pieces need to be eliminated for our objectives to be attained."[/color] Lila finished as she waited for the king's reply.

Even though Lila knew how to hide it incredibly well, she was still very anxious. She knew that Sleeth thought very differently from her and above everything else, her ultimate goal was to make Anui the king... By any means possible. She was going to use Sleeth, just as she was offering herself to be used by him, until he was no more needed. Even though he was the king, her true allegiance lies only with Anui.

Anui, Lila. Together they spoke before the King. Their words were a risk. For Sleeth was known for being a very harsh ruler even among his close kin. Still faces held anticipated breathe as the King heard Lila further. The words that sent waves through the room was the reminder that Lila indeed once worked for the Aion. That Lila herself was a notable enemy to their kind before. The distrust of the Aion flared up old wounds for many. But most remained on the matter at hand. The King let out a sigh once she was done speaking. Her young angelic voice filling the room with vigor. It was clear she was pushing past her fears to speak.
It was still silent for a moment. The only sound coming from Ni'ras anxious breathing. Sleeth was visibly unamused. But his rising anger seemed to be stifled. "This young one wants to advise the war council it seems." He said whilst laying back in his seat, seeming to relax more in posture and tone. The other royals smiled and a few chuckled. "Perhaps you and Anui should be the ones in charge of such a task. No?" He snapped his fingers and a servant stepped from the shadows behind him and handed him a crystal glass of blood to pickup. Sleeth lifted the cup to his lips. "I suggest starting by getting whatever information you can from this creature. Then forming a team who can accurately scout the Basilisks main territory. I will supply the final act of killing the Queen." He spoke with a bit of delight. The thought of killing the Queen whilst enjoying the rarest blood put him in a far better mood. The loss of his arm seemed to give him an itch for dragon blood. Not to drink but to bathe in.

Anui held his composure through out. He knew that if they remained confident and respectful they could sway him. For it was only a small matter. "Thank you my lord. We will certainly not fail you." Sleeth chuckled a bit but then before Anui could look at Lila after standing. "I also expect a thorough understanding of the Aions base. It has been a secret for too long." The Kings voice was cold and calculating. Echoing through Anuis ears and even causing one to visibly bleed. Anui bowed briefly once more before turning to Ni'ra. "Apprehend her." Anui then looked to Freyr. "You may help."

Freyr couldn't believe it. The King himself addressed him. Even if he couldn't see Sleeth's eyes, Freyr could tell that he had acknowleged him. It was a good start. Those mere words made Freyr shiver. He felt dizzy and nearly fell over, though he was able to compose himself.

"As you say, My Lord." Freyr bowed in the King's direction, a grin forming on his face. This was it. It was his chance to impress Sleeth.

In brief moments of silence before Sleeth replied, Lila could almost hear her blood flowing through her veins. In all her life as an assassin, it was her first time being nervous like that. Even though her expression didn't change, on the inside she was extremely nervous. Fortunately, Lila's gamble seemed to have paid off. With his riging anger quelled, Sleeth seemed to be satisfied with her words as he relaxed on his seat, approving Lila's plan.

[color=C6DEFF]"It will be done, your highness."[/color] Lila replied, bowing once again as he heard him appointing both Lila and Anui as the ones responsible for the basiliskin messenger. 

As he mentioned his next words, Lila wasn't surprised. She knew very well how many royals felt the second she mentioned she worked for the Aion. Even though mentioning that could probably mean a blow on her reputation with the other royals, the results were still favorable to her. When Sleeth asked for details regarding the Aion base, Lila wasn't surprised.

[color=C6DEFF]"The Aion mean nothing to me, your highness. Not anymore. A report will be written and delivered to your hands as soon as possible."[/color] she said, with a serious, formal tone.

As he ordered to apprehend the basiliskin girl, he looked to the new royal, allowing him to help with that task, since he was so eager to prove himself. To him, Lila merely gave a stern, serious look before she stepped down to where Anui and the Basiliskin girl were.

[color=C6DEFF]"Do not treat her too harshly. I suspect not much will be needed for her to cooperate with us."[/color] Lila said, looking to the guard and Freyr.

Giving a step forward, towards the basiliskin girl, Lila looked her in the eyes with a serious expression.
[color=C6DEFF]"[i]Everything will be explained in time. This is the best I can do for you... At least for now.[/i]"[/color] Lila said in a very low tone, in such a way only the basiliskin girl could hear.

[color=C6DEFF]"Don't do anything foolish. Think about the situation you're in very carefuly before chosing who you will pledge alliance to."[/color] Lila said with a much more serious tone, before she turned to Anui, gently grabbing his hand. Even though the basiliskin girl would probably understand Lila was just being that strict because she had to maintain the appearances, the words she had just said were still a warning and a reminder that if she said or did anything she shouldn't, not even her or Anui would be able to intervene.

To most, it was just a simple gesture, a wife holding her husband's hand but Anui would quickly realize how agitated and nervous Lila was despite her exterior appearance.

[color=C6DEFF]"I am confident in my skills your majesty. I won't betray your expectations."[/color] Lila said, with a discreet, formal bow as she silently asked permission to leave.
Ni'ra finally found her back to the wall, too shaken to actually do anything. Lila came to speak to her briefly before leaving, her words partially soothing, and interestingly softer than the others who seemed to call for nothing but blood, but the thoughts of being a slave here terrified her. Lila could see the fear in her eyes, even as she tried to speak to Ni'ra she was too terrified to respond, and her eyes would still dart around the room from time to time, her breathing fast and erratic.

Nothing ended up attacking her, and the adrenaline she felt to run now took its coarse, causing her to shake a bit as she slid down against the wall to the floor. She pulled her legs up and buried her face into her arms and knees and began to weep, unable to stop even as Freyr would approach to collect her.

Freyr still had his dagger in his left hand. If not for the orders of the King, the Dolofon assassin would have cut down the Basilisk girl right and there. A nice cut around the neck scales and he could pierce her throat with a single strike. But that never came to be. Instead, he was ordered to escort her out of the room. Freyr walked up to her, looking down on her as she cried.

"On your feet, we're leaving." He said in a cold tone. This whole scene reminded him of something. But he couldn't find what it was.

Ni'ra tensed up at hearing the bloodthirsty man's cold voice. It was the same as the man who begged to be the one to kill her. Ni'ra slowly looked up at the man, seeing the dagger still in his hand made her blood run cold. She felt as if she wanted to stand but couldn't, as if the fear that had came over her from this unexpected turn of events worked against her very will to act. "N-Ni'ra... c-can't move. Too afraid," Her voice barely made out.

Anui held his composure even as Lila took hold of his hand. He was clearly more at ease. Even though his uncle guaranteed to harm him in most of their meetings. Always to make him 'strong'. Since he was indeed his favorite potential heir to the throne. 

Ni'ras fit of shivering fear was not a concern to anyone there. It was her life that was on the line. The guard stepped forward with Freyr. Chains made of shadows formed in its hands. Dealing with slaves was a common skill of a Nero  guard. He whipped the chain like a whip. It aimed to wrap around both her ankles. Then from her own shadow two chains would erupt from below and attempt to wrap around her wrists. Anui formed these chains. He didn't want Lila to get involved with potentially harming this creature. It needed to trust someone to be more informative. He knew a thing or two more than an average person on how to torture. 

Once Ni'ra was chain. The two on her wrists would connect. Immobilizing her.

Lila felt a twinge of guilt when she heard the basiliskin's words, saying she was too afraid to move and heard her crying. She knew very well that the poor girl's life wouldn't be easy for now... Sleeth was undoubtedly a cruel king and his followers, equally so.

When Anui made shadow chains to wrap around the girl's wrists, Lila gently tightened her grasp on Anui's hand, in a silent request for him to not be too harsh with the girl. Lila always disliked needless displays of power, violence or even needless bloodshed. She was taught to be eficient and precise and those things were only needless waste of energy. Not only that, but that girl was merely a messenger. Not only she was incredibly innocent and naive, but she had nothing to do with what was happening with the Basilisk Queen and Nuxta.


Ni'ra jumped when the chains were cast at her, instinctively trying to pull against them but it seemed like it was hopeless. They wouldn't give as she tried separating her hands. She looked around for someone, anyone that could help her or hear her cries, but none there looked to care, some even annoyed at her lamentations, save one. It was the one who spoke to her briefly but a moment ago. Ni'ra's tear filled eyes locked with hers for only a moment once more. Her eyes betrayed to Lila a mind wrought with terror and confusion, though it wasn't but just a moment in which time seemed to stop to Ni'ra, but she was then quickly and unceremoniously hauled away to whatever bleak pit awaited her.[/hider]
[hider=Torture and Information]
[color=Darkred]Into the Dungeon…[/color]
The guard and Freyr would carry her. Lifting her off the ground but still close enough for her tail to drag. Her cries being heard through the halls. She would once again see the Basilisk skulls overhead. She would be moved down the halls for atleast fifteen minutes before arriving to yet another door. But this is door was wooden. Beaten, clawed, with blood stains. On its knock handle in the center was a hand made of iron holding the circular handle. The guard with a single hand knocked on the door. The sound of footsteps could be heard slowly moving up a flight of stairs. The door opened. Revealing a hunched over being. Its face was masked fully. It wore a tattered cloak that ended at the knees. It was small, about Lila's height. But despite its cloak its hump was visible. "Have you brought me another plaything?" Its voice was like a steady croak from a frog. Its hands held the edge of the door. The mist from below flowed out. The smell of blood was strong.

"Don't touch her Grotum. We are moving her to a cell for now. Lead us to one away from others." Anui spoke with a cold tone. Not interested in Grotum's desire to torture new victims. He brought a hand slightly up. Grotum panicked. He knew the royals hated his presence and so he scurried down the stairs. "This way masters!" He went down the stairs and eventually reach the end. It was spiraling staircase made of stone. Carved into the castle. The dungeon was rife with the presence of pain and death. Moaning could be heard from the dark cells poorly lit by the flames hanging on the walls and dangling from the ceiling. Cages with bodies alive or possibly dead hung from the ceilings.
"This way." Grotum waved them over down the hall of caged tortured souls. Chained to the walls. Hanging and bleeding out upside down. It was truly a nightmarish place. But to Grotum this was his haven. His heaven. Grotum had them walk a few minutes until the cells were more empty. There he opened one. Lit the torch next to it for some light and gestured them inside. The Guard and Freyr would drop Ni'ra here.


The sights, sounds and smells of the prison perturbed Freyr. But for different reasons. This whole place reminded him of his childhood and the training that got him here in the first place. His surroundings beared a striking resemblence to the place he was taken to every time he failed. Even when he held no visual memory, the smells and sounds alone were enough. Freyr now wanted to be done with this business and return home. By then, he was getting twitchy and the familiar withdrawal headache was starting to become worse.

Lila was still trying to maintain the appearances despite how truly exhausted she was. That encounter, speaking up not only to the king himself but to all the royals was just nerve wracking for her and when she saw the poor basiliskin girl struggling against the shadow chains and her teary eyes, filled with terror Lila slowly closed her eyes, looking away.

Lila's hands weren't clean. With all the lives she took in her life, she had seen all kinds of reactions coming from her targets on their final moments. The smell of fear, desperation, hatred and anger weren't strangers to her. Not even once she was phased by those. This time though, it was different. She wasn't guilty of anything, she wasn't a target, nor she even knew what was happening. There was absolutely no need or reason for her to be on that situation. She was completely and truly innocent.

After a while, they finally arrived on the cells she would stay. The mere sight of it's bloodstained door should already be terrifying enough for the basiliskin girl. Upon opening the door, they were met by a short, hunched over masked being. Both the tone of his voice and his words were just disgusting to Lila as he asked if they had brought him another 'plaything'. Fortunately, Anui quickly spoke for him to not touch the basiliskin girl. Upon hearing his voice, the torturer, Grotum, immediately panicked, leading them to the cell as fast as he could. They walked for a while until the cells were mostly empty before they opened one, before dropping the basiliskin girl there.
[color=C6DEFF]"Don't mistreat the basiliskin girl. She is but a messenger and she is already terrified enough."[/color] Lila said, looking to Grotum.

[color=C6DEFF]"I will [i]not[/i] tolerate disobedience. Give this girl something to eat and drink. Decent food and let her calm down. She does not need to suffer any more than she already did."[/color] Lila said, with a threatening tone as she looked to Grotum. Even though she didn't look directly towards the new royal, it was clear that the warning she gave to Grotum extended to everyone on that prison.

[color=C6DEFF]"I will be back to speak with her later."[/color] Lila finished, gently and discreetly tightening her grasp around Anui's hand, a silent plead for them to go to their quarters.
Anui would know better than anyone how exhausted she was.

Freyr stayed quiet throughout the whole exchange. He followed along as they took the Basilisk to a cell deep within the prison. If this girl was a Basilisk, then she probably had a good amount of poison. He figured, he could combine that poison with something else and perhaps get a similar effect to earlier. At this point, he was craving to sense it again. But, he couldn't do it now. He was going to have to wait until Anui and Lila were gone.

When Lila, the only person to have shown any sort of compassion so far, turned her eyes away from Ni'ra, she felt a feeling of dread sweep over her. More than just her fear now, it was almost as if she had the feeling of certain death, though wasn't sure when it would come.

Ni'ra had closed her eyes before they could wander to the skulls above once more. Being carried between the two, her feet didn't even touch the ground, unable to try to run. Her tail though, did seem to drag, so she curled it in, around her waist and her leg. It was only a slight comfort, embracing herself slightly. When the got to the door however, she was hit by many senses as if she had hit a wall with the stench of blood and death before they even knocked. She tried to struggle, but the she could barely move anyway, if there was anywhere she didn't want to be it was past that door, her foreboding thoughts of death feeling confirmed by the chemical traces of flesh and blood past that door. Her tongue even stopped flicking out as she fought back the natural urge to do so, the signals being given by the blood and decomposition too much for her to bear, as id the smell wasn't enough alone. Her eyes seemed to widen in horror at the sights in these torturous halls, if she was supposed to be calming down, this place wasn't doing it. When they dropped her into the cell, she scrambled to the far corner, the white of her terrified eyes the most visible thing. Much like the court, she once again curled into a ball, with her tail coiling around her as if it provided some sort of protection. At this point, the poor girl was shaking with fear and could barely say a word if she wanted to.

Despite the words spoken by Lila and Anui to Grotum, she still couldn't shake these feelings that this was the end. After all, so far the evidence of the others' actions and her current location seemed to tell a different tale.

Grotum had never taken orders from or even seen Lila before. But he knew all others within this castle were superior to  him. As long as they weren't a servant like he was. He nodded several times to Lilas demands. He scurried off when she was done. "I'll go get what she needs right away master!" He went off down the halls turning into the torturous abyss and was gone. 

Anui sighed at the sight of Ni'ra up against the wall in fear. Part of him knew she may be better off dead. But there was a part to play for the girl. For now Anui would have to take every piece available to him to play chess against the King. He clinched his fists. That was his goal and with Lila who he looked at with such respect he could do it. She was his strongest piece and to his delight she was turning into more than just a weapon.

He felt Lilas physical nudge and knew she wanted out of this. Best to discuss what to do with the creature in their private room. After a bath and a meal. Anui looked to Freyr who was intently staring at their new captive. "You. Freyr. You helped this much. Make sure Grotum follows Lilas orders." His free hand reached and touched Freyrs shoulder. "I will be needing more of your help later. Someone of your talents can be very useful. You will also find that helping me comes with many rewards." He looked Freyr in the eyes. The eyes of a predator they all shared. Except for the meek Basiliskin who remained in her corner. 

"Come Lila." Anui turned to exit. "You are relieved for now." He said to the Guard. Who followed behind to leave as well.[/hider]
[hider=Venom]
[color=Darkorchid]Snake meets Spider.[/color]
Freyr waited until he could no longer hear the footsteps of Anui, Lila and the guard. He looked around once before going into Ni'ra's cell, approaching her before kneeling in front of her. 

"So this is what a Basilisk looks like." He said, thinking aloud. "I don't suppose you could give me some of your venom?" Freyr asked, finally addressing Ni'ra properly.


Ni'ra barely peeked from where her face was buried in her arms, upon seeing him she only seemed to curl up tighter. "Ni'ra doez not like you. Ztrange man wanted to kill Ni'ra...Ni'ra venom iz bad anyway, zhould no give..."(edited)

"Not for me." The tone in his voice was strange. She could hear him shiver from where she was sitting. He sounded desperate, but was trying to keep it all under control. Freyr looked behind him and then back at Ni'ra. 
"I was only serving my King. Putting up a mask. I w-wouldn't kill without a contract." Freyr shivered again. By now, he was starting to sweat. 

"Please. All I need is a few drops."

"Ni'ra no want to help kill. Iz not right... few dropz all it takes. Firzt dizzy, then zleepy, then dead... Ni'ra uze to hunt..."

Grotum soon came running down the hall. Passing the grotesque displays of torture while holding a bucket of water and a plate of meat. He came to the cell seeing Freyr still there. With Anui and Lila gone he assumed Freyr was now in charge. Though he did wonder his intent with the creature. He dropped the bucket of water and the food in the cell across from Ni'ra by the wall. He waddled himself up to Freyr. "Master says no more suffering for this one. Though it is a shame." He sighed. Looking at Ni'ra with a chuckle.

Any progress Freyr made seemed to be dashed away by the presence of Grotum. While she was replying a bit to him, Grotum staring her down and chuckling made her tighten her coil back up. Ni'ra didn't understand how anyone could be so cold as these descendants seemed to be. But this...[i]thing[/i] that brought water and some sort of meat she couldn't identify, he reveled in the pain and agony of others. She couldn't fathom such a being, and it made her stomach churn just thinking or what could be happening to others here, especially since she knew it was most certainly worse than she could ever imagine. She wasn't even sure what he was, he didn't look like any descendant she had seen before on her way here. Was this some new creature?

Then there was this other man who stayed to watch her. For what purpose did he want her venom? He seemed almost as unhinged as she was for a split moment there. Her venom would do nothing but kill this man as things are here. She knew ways that it could be made into an antivenom, in fact, she carried some on her, as it was a basic skill to learn. She would have to ask when this hobbled over thing left them.

"What is it that you have brought her?" Freyr asked, not even bothering to look at Grotum. He couldn't bear the sight of the grotesque humanoid. How could anyone, much less a Nayu devolve to something like that. He couldn't be a Nayu, could he? 

"And speak quickly. I've unfinished business with this... Basilisk."

Having already said everything that she wanted to say, Lila simply kept quiet as Anui dismissed the guard, asking Freyr, the new royal to make sure Grotum followed her orders. Even though Lila didn't think of the new royal that highly, especially since he seemed to be eager to please Sleeth and would probably tell anything that happened to him, Anui still had words to him, mentioning rewards if he allied himself to them.

With only a discreet nod towards Freyr, Lila went together with Anui as they left to their room.

The moment they were alone, Lila hugged Anui's arm. He would clearly feel her weight as she rest her body against his.

[color=C6DEFF]"It was... much worse than I thought it would be..."[/color] she said, still hugging Anui. It was almost as she was trying to hide from the world for a moment. Anui's presence, his comforting and caring touch were things she really needed to help her to deal with all the anxiety she had to hide until now.

Facing not only the King, but all the other royals, raising her voice like that to all to hear, letting them know her own thoughts... The fear of not being accepted or worse... If she said anything wrong that caused her to not being able to be besides Anui anymore...

[color=C6DEFF]"What if I said something wrong? Not only the king but all the other royals would be against me..."[/color] she said, voicing some of her worries and anxieties to Anui.

"Oh just some fresh meat from some poor soul no longer with us. " Grotum chuckled. But he looked up at Freyr and immediately felt uneased. The man was far closer to royalty than Grotum ever would be. So he refrained from annoying the man. He simply placed the keys to the cell down by the entrance as he wobbled out. "I'm sure her kind has tasted the meat of a fallen man or woman or two. There's more where that came from as well." He said before hobbling out down the halls. Grabbing a whip from his waist and lashing at a chained victim already covered in wounds. He kept on moving until out of sight.

"Repulsive..." 
Freyr said, thinking aloud again. He looked behind him, seeing the metal bucket filled with water along with the chunk of meat. The Nayu could smell it from here. Freyr knew how far Nayu cruelty could go. But this was beyond anything he could imagine. Even for his parents. He felt an odd sensation in his chest. Similar to when... no... he could think about that later.

"I-" Freyr shivered, struggling to keep himself together. "Just give me the poison. I-I know what I'm doing."

Thankfully, Ni'ra was far from hungry, as she couldn't even imagine touching that plate of meat even if she was, especially after hearing what it was from. Ni'ra blinked at Freyr, unsure how to continue. She then looked up as she remembered something. [color=808000]"Ni'ra haz hunting ztick. Haz Ni'ra venom. Take from holding zleeve and let drip?"[/color] Ni'ra would lean over, and lashed to her belt was a sheathed shortsword. It was odd that the guards had not removed any of her belongings, however, they probably believed her not to be of any threat, after all, she hasn't even tried using it this whole time.

Freyr took a moment to register what she was saying. The way she spoke made it hard for him to understand, especially in the state he was at the moment. Then, he realized she was talking about her dagger which was securely attached to her belt. Odd that the guard wouldn't take this from her before dragging her down here. Without wasting any more time, Freyr reached for her belt and took the dagger. 

He played around with the blade for a moment, getting a feel for it. It was a sturdy well made weapon. Not like anything he had handled before however. Then, he placed the blade up to his nose and took a deep breath. When he exhaled, he couldn't help but giggle. This would do...

"Yes. This will do..."

[color=808000]"Eh? You take? No no, Ni'ra needz ztick to hunt, juzt take venom, yez? Take thiz here too,"[/color] Ni'ra said as she fumbled with a leather strap that went around her right thigh. There were small loops on the belt that tightly held small vials, each one only having enough volume to fit the tip of one's pinky inside up to the first joint, and capped with a small cork. She reached both hand to the belt, as they were bound, and removed one of the five miniature vials and set it down next to Freyr's feet. [color=808000]"Iz anti-venom...Iz in caze uze too much."[/color]

 Ni'ra looked at Freyr with her eyes, while still full of fear, seemed to not hold any malice. [color=808000]"Ni'ra would not want mazk, if mazk make her do terrible thingz."[/color] She said surprisingly calmly to him, referencing his reply to her about why he was willing to kill her earlier. She made her way back to the corner of the cell and coiled up once more. though it made a minimal difference, it was the farthest point away from the sights, sounds, and scents of the rest of these torturous halls, and the most hidden in the dark in the cell.

 [color=808000]"Ni'ra..... doez not underztand. Did nothing wrong...ztill... Iz just thing for otherz to uze..."[/color] she started to talk out loud to herself, though partially to convey her thoughts to Freyr, who seemed to be the only person sticking around. [color=808000]"Bazilizkin have no one. Bazilizk no like... Iz dezcendant. Dezcendant no like... Iz Bazilizk. Iz no place for Bazilizkin?"[/color]

"I've nothing personal against you if that's what you're saying." 
Freyr picked up the anti-venom and took some of the venom from the knife using an empty glass vial he was carrying in his bag. He then walked over to Ni'ra, placing the dagger back on her belt.

"I just do what my Lord requires of me. Don't have much of a choice." 
There was a melancholy about him, but Ni'ra couldn't place it. He had already given up to the powers that be, and it was clear that he was using other things to cope with the fact. Perhaps that is what he needed the venom for.

Ni'ra tilted her head the conversation, understanding this man's thoughts, giving her curiosity something to think about other than her own peril. [color=808000]"Iz juzt follow orderz? Feh, that make right, eh? Iz right or wrong only choze by ztrong? Or iz right and wrong juzt right and wrong?"[/color] Se looked over the trembling man, for what he trembled for she wasn't sure. She buried her face back under her arms as she curled into a ball again. Muffled, Freyr could hear her voice still, [color=808000]"You ztrong enough for own choice, after all, Ni'ra iz here, and you, out there."[/color]

If only he did have a choice. His symptons subsided for a moment. Her questions made him think. They were things he had been asking himself for years. But he made sure to bury them deep in his subconcious. He turned to face the Basilisk again,

"You don't know what you are asking." He replied, attempting to avoid the question. "I don't have a choice. I was born into this." Freyr paused for a moment, looking at the vial with the venom inside it on the palm of his hand. "And die in it as well."

[color=808000]"Ni'ra knowz what Ni'ra azk,"[/color] she corrected him, her tone as if a little offended. [color=808000]"Iz always choice. Live, die, keep going, give up, change, ztay zame. Iz all choice if ztrong. Queztion Ni'ra azk iz zimple. [i]You[/i] iz only one that can make anzwer, um..., deefy-cult?"[/color] Ni'ra was quiet for a bit after that statement looking away and resting the side of her head on her arms facing the wall in the other direction.

"I..." 
She was right. He had spent years serving at the feet of the nobles and got everything he ever wanted. Now, Freyr had made a name for himself and discredited his parents in front of the most powerful people in Nero. Yet he was still here. But why? 
"You..." He was stumbling over his words. Freyr knew she was right. He wasn't strong enough to make his own choices. Regardless, he decided to evade. "Yet, look at where those choices got you. Inside this cell. For me, I am no longer blind and I can go where I please and do as I wish. Maybe one of us simply didn't make the right choice." 

That was a lie. But Freyr was used to it. He could put up a smile on command. And say whatever people wanted to hear if it beneffited him.

[color=808000]"Ni'ra did not lock zelf in thiz cage... Ni'ra came of free will, to zee thingz never zeen, iz dezcendantz that put her here... If free, why you not do az want then? Iz afraid of unknown? Maybe, even though Ni'ra iz in thiz cage, you are lesssss free than her, locked here in thiz place az your own cage, yet there iz no lock on yourz, and chooze to ztay?"[/color] she replied, still not looking at him and only curling up more as he stated the obvious about her capture.[/hider]


[hider=The plan]
Anui and Lila were soon at their private quarters. Their section of the castle was quite extravagant. The extra space was at times a chore to get through. But the main room was small enough to feel like a home. Anui had a servant prepare a bath for Lila. A young Nayu girl with black hair and closed blind eyes. She drew the bath with ease and walked with ease around the room to place towels at the ready for Lila. Meanwhile Anui looked at Lila's body. She was a bit disheveled from her battle earlier with his mother. He felt... Disgust. His mother was over protective despite his age. She tried so hard to control him and his choices. She knew how adamant he was to be with Lila. So she must have decided to try and hurt Lila and make her seem unworthy. Yet Lila fought back. This made him feel so proud of Lila. "I'm proud of you." He said bluntly. Watching her from a seat nearby.

Lila silently thanked the young attendant that prepared the bath for her before she exited the room. Even though she was just an attendant, Lila didn't want her to see her 'weak' side. The side only Anui knew. After she exited, Anui came walking towards her as she began getting ready to take a bath.

[color=C6DEFF]"It was hard..."[/color] she replied as she approached him, gently resting her forehead on his chest.

[color=C6DEFF]"Speaking to the king and... All the other royals... What if they didn't see me as worthy to stay by your side, what if the King thought that?"[/color] she began, finally giving voice to all the insecurities and doubts she kept to herself while she was outside her and Anui's private quarters.

[color=C6DEFF]"Holding a weapon, taking down a target, hunting... It's so much easier..."[/color] she said with an exhausted sigh as she gave Anui a small, delicate kiss before she started undressing herself to take a bath.

[color=C6DEFF]"That basiliskin girl..."[/color] Lila said as she entered the bathtub, feeling her body relax and a pleasant shiver run through her spine as she submerged her body in the warm water.

[color=C6DEFF]"She is naïve and innocent... She was used by her own kind, sent here to die... She didn't even knew the contents of the message..."[/color] Lila said.

It was honestly... uncommon for Lila, who always was cold and efficient her entire life to care about someone other than Anui but again... That was the old Lila. She had changed so much in a short period of time, finally starting to live with her own emotions instead of suppressing them, finally knowing what love was and having someone who cared about her... Maybe Lila saw a bit of herself in the basiliskin. She is alone, so incredibly alone and doesn't even seem to realize that yet…

Anui nearly laughed to himself. "I doubt he sees even me as worthy..." He placed a hand over his face. "I mean. It's not like he's comparing you to me. No that man only thinks of himself..." He looked at the young girl. "Wait in the main room." Anui told the servant. She bowed and walked gracefuly out the door despite her lack of sight and young age. Anui continued. "Let's work to make this our gain. I believe you are correct. The Basilisks don't share even our limited sentiments towards a descendant. Despite legends saying that it is a rare occurrence, similar to a seraphim being born among pure bloods of a different line."
"Perhaps she will know enough to allow us to infiltrate the Basilisks territory. We likely won't have to hurt the girl if we convince her." He looked at his sharp nails and thought of ways to look less intimidating for a moment. "The one who I gave sight to.. Freyr. I believe he can be useful. I have agents among the royals, soldiers and assassins that are loyal to me. One such agent is on a journey with this new group called the alliance. Formed by every kingdom in the land to be our saviours against this Nuxta."



Anui's words made Lila almost shiver as she remembered the King's stare towards her a while ago. He was an incredibly dangerous person. Not due to his strength or political power, but due to his personality. Anui's words now made that fact even clearer than before.

[color=C6DEFF]"She will indeed be... useful."[/color] Lila said, calming herself down as the warm water relaxed her muscles and nerves.

[color=C6DEFF]"The basilisks... They can be used against Nuxta... If we take their Queen down and make it look like Nuxta betrayed her..."[/color] Lila said after she hear Anui's words with a serious tone. Even though she was thinking ahead, it was still a solid plan and if it worked, it would put a sizeable dent in Nuxta's forces.
[color=C6DEFF]"Still... We need to do something with the basiliskin girl. Even though she is a basilisk, she undoubtedly has feelings too and she seems clueless about the situation she's currently in. I don't think she knows she was betrayed by her own kind... Also, setting her free is... unlikely seeing what happened with the king..."[/color] she continued.

[color=C6DEFF]"If she chooses to ally herself with us... I could train her myself. I can't give her a home to return to nor freedom, as it is unlikely that the king would set her free even if we do give her enough information about the basilisks, but I could teach her how to earn her own life and possibly, her own freedom... Even if she has to pay for it by spilling blood."[/color] Lila said as she cleaned her skin with a fragrant soap.

[color=C6DEFF]"Freyr..."[/color] Lila repeated as Anui mentioned the new royal.

[color=C6DEFF]"I don't trust him... At least not yet. He seems too eager to please the king. It would be smart for us to be careful of what we say or do around him..."[/color] she said to Anui, as she started cleaning her hair.

[color=C6DEFF]"It is my first time knowing about this.. Alliance... What do you expect of them?"[/color] Lila asked, curious to know what were his expectations of said group.

Anui took in Lilas words on Freyr with a earnest nod. He agreed she was right about Freyrs perceived 'loyalty' to the king. How his new found sight was used to fixate on the King. Hands willing to kill even a babe for the King. That loyalty Anui wanted on his side. Since Freyr was still new this was a ripe opportunity. Anui stood from his seat with a single push of both his arms. Almost gliding over the floor as he paced forward and then back. His right hand cupping his chin in thought as Lila replied to him. 

Her final question made him pause, only making it to the third pace before doing so. He was facing Lila and watched her red hairs natural bright red turn crimson in the waters. He had half a mind to join her, the reddish hue on her usually pale complexion reminded him of her warmth. He straightened his mind to her question. "Uhm.. The alliance is a show of solidarity nothing more. We aren't coordinating with other kingdoms. All of our secrets remain secrets. We continue to fight amongst ourselves and divide territories. Because of this the alliance is doomed to fail." He sighed. Crossing his arms. "And now we must continue to perpetuate the problem. The king wants knowledge on where the Aion hide. No doubt to slay them... Blood is paid in blood."

Lila silently listened to Anui's words regarding the alliance. Indeed, it was but a show of solidarity and nothing more. Nothing had changed, the nations were still 'enemies' wars and conflicts would continue to happen, secrets would continue to exist.

[color=C6DEFF]"Regrettable... But it's the truth..."[/color] Lila said as she finished her bath, submerging herself in the water once more to wash the shampoo off her hair.

[color=C6DEFF]"The conflict with the Aion isn't something that can be solved easily. Too much blood was spilled on both sides, too many things were done..."[/color] Lila continued.

[color=C6DEFF]"That said, I don't care about what happens with the Aion. If their secrets must be used as a bargaining chip for our objectives to be completed, so be it. They're not exactly innocent..."[/color] Lila said, in a serious tone as she dried herself.

[color=C6DEFF]"Until we are ready to make our move, there is nothing we can do to prevent more blood to be spilled in this conflict against the Aion."[/color] Lila continued.

[color=C6DEFF]"There will be a time when we will hopefully be able to end this meaningless conflict once and for all... To end the corruption that is deeply rooted in this nation... But for now... We have no other choice but to wait..."[/color] Lila said, getting out of the bath, covered with only a towel as she gently hugged Anui.

[color=C6DEFF]"We'll soon have to go back to the cells to talk with the basiliskin girl... I will have a report done about the Aion base too, together with whatever information I will be able to get from her..."[/color] Lila said, her tone of voice made it clear that she would choose to stay besides Anui and just keep hugging her like she was doing now if she could.

Anui respectfully remained turned the other way to face the door as Lila stepped out of the cover of the water. He kept a hand on his chin in deep thought. As she spoke out loud and came closer to him he could sense her thoughts. Her pattern of thinking and what she went through. The Aion, the kingdom of Nero, the lords of every land. They all meant nothing to her. So they meant nothing to him. But the people mattered. The future mattered. For them and their heirs they needed a peaceful world. Or at least one that was far less corrupted by the desires of their rulers. Perhaps a unified world was too much to ask for. But in its current state, even with a single enemy, they can't connect. 

"Lila..." He said softly as she held him. "Before you turn in your report for the Aion. Let me see it first. It may be best we keep some things to ourselves." He touched her hand gently. "Lets see this.. girl, as you call her. Then prepare ourselves for an expedition to the Basilisks territory." He looked a bit serious, though Lila couldn't see. His pupils slightly slit as he had a death glare at the door. His mind venturing down the road of blood they will spill moving forward. 

Once properly dressed Lila and Anui would leave the room to the servant. Down the halls Anui knew so well. He began to point to Lila what hall was which. The statues on the walls marked what led where. Beast Gargoyles, Seraphim, Basilisk Skulls, The heads of previous kings and royals, and finally the skulls of their greatest enemies. Yes the petrified skulls of those in high standing that fell to a Nero blade. All marked where each thing was. While it would take her time to learn it all she would get a grasp of the statues and their meaning soon enough.
Walking the hall of Basilisk skulls they soon arrived to the dungeon room once more. With another knock they were greeted with Grotum again. He quickly led them to the Basiliskin. Anui noticed she did not touch her food. Watching her as a tall dark figure behind the bars that kept her inside. "Open it." The door was swung open by Grotum, Anui would inside in unison with Lila. He observed the cell briefly and looked to the girl. Not saying a word, it would be best, he thought, to let Lila talk to this... girl. "I must go for now. I will return shortly." Anui turned to face the exit. "Be wary of any tricks she has up her sleeve." He kissed Lila on the lips. Showing the Basilisk that they were a couple. Glaring at the girl as he kissed his wife he let her know without words not to touch Lila. OR he would be the one she would have to deal with. If it were up to him Grotum would be the one interrogating her. [/hider]
[hider=Mistakes]
[color=red]Mistakes…[/color]
Anui walked out of the dungeon. He made his way down the halls until he came to the seraphim statue hall. There he found a door and entered. "Tell me what you can of the new blood." The room he was in was filled with books. The one who sat in the middle of all these book shelves was a hooded woman with a sphere in her hands. She smiled under her hood. "Well." Her voice was a bit surprised, but calm and pleased. "The last time I did this was for the King." She said while the sphere began to glow a feint white with black swirls surrounding its inside. "Oh my.. It seems our new blood won't be around much longer.." She said. Anui looked a bit surprised himself. "The canal cavern estate." Immediately after she spoke Anui vanished.
Soon Anui was at Freyr's home. Uninvited as he was he did not ask the details of his situation from the seer. Anui managed to enter inside without any forced entry. His brief walk past the garden only gave the air of quiet danger a beautiful backdrop. Something he didn't want to be a part of. He looked for signs of struggle. Finding a table with a few materials spilled around it. The liquid seemed vile to the senses. He slowly walked further, around the table. There he found Freyr. Anui calmly observed. The liquid was clearly the culprit but he didn't seem to drink it. Despite this peculiar situation Anui remained entirely calm, almost cold as he knelt down and felt Freyr's pulse.

"Like a true blood." He muttered. The poison in the liquid didn't seem like enough to kill a Nayu. Anui lifted Freyr in his arms and headed for the door. "For better or for worse new blood. You're alive." He said as he headed to the nearest medical center. Luckily they were in the royal district. Freyr would find himself in a bed as a patient in a poorly lit room soon enough.



For Freyr, barely any time had passed between him passing out at the foot of his bed and waking up here. He expected to see nothing at first, but slowly he remembered the day's previous events. Freyr felt sore and nauseous, but he couldn't figure out why. He had zero recollection of what happened between arriving at his home and whatever this place was. It was dimly lit, with a small table at the side with all sorts of tools. Freyr moved some hairs out of his face as he sat up a little. The sheets under him were damp in his own sweat and his hair was matted, messy and soaked in his own sweat. What happened to him and more importantly, how did he get here?

Anui was the only figure in the room. Though he was cloaked by a shadow that could not be pierced even with Freyr's new sight. He stepped into the light as she came near Freyr. Placing a steady right hand on the mans right shoulder. Pressing down gently to keep a bit of balance. The bed was small and falling was easy. "It's alright." He said with a slow deliberate calming voice. His eyes were still as cold as ever, but the will to kill was not in them. Nor disgust. He instead looked at Freyr like a master viewed their dog who disappointed them with bad behavior. Any hopes of seeing Freyr as a possible noble of valor was tarnished in Anui's eyes. He instead wished now he asked the Seer for more information before coming into contact with this man. Now for an alibi... "I had came to your lovely estate to see if you were home." He tilted his head as he looked into the mans eyes. The calculated dream of Anui's eyes met Freyr's once more and he would revisit the memory of having gained such a new found ability. 

"I need you to tell me if you harmed the basiliskin in anyway or did something to her to acquire whatever was in that concoction you had." His hand against his shoulder gently pressed his sharp nails into Freyr's flesh.

Freyr nearly jumped out of bed when he saw Anui's figure approach. But once he recognized him, he lowered his guard. Anui was able to approach him, get close and practically interrogate him. The line of questioning was odd, and it took Freyr a moment to really register what Anui was talking about. The added 'motivation' reminded Freyr of his training sessions. He had trained for these particular situations. Though, this circumstance was different. He lost nothing by telling the truth...* 

"I-I didn't hurt her." Said Freyr, looking away from Anui. He was clearly in pain, but was doing his best to not outwardly show it. "We talked and I asked for it." 

It was all coming back now. The Basilisk poison. He has used it to make an elixir to cure his withdrawal symptons. Though, his definition of 'cure' was dubious at best. Seems like his head had gotten to him. Either he probably took too much or added the wrong ingredients. Either way, Anui didn't need to know. And even if he knew, he wasn't going to admit it.

"The King gave me different orders and I obeyed. Why would I harm her and disobey?" 
Freyr had always portrayed himself as a loyal Dolofon assassin. Even if he didn't particularly care about the politics, he always like to show his superiors that he was but a humble servant of the King and the Kingdom. In reality, he just wanted to climb the ranks. To get to where he was now.

Anui knew his kind. Short of royal blood but close enough to high society to attain wealth with his god given Nayu traits. Honed enough to be of use. To gain prominence amongst the high bloods while they stepped over the lives of the low bloods. Anui respected those who came from nothing. Those were the ones he gave all his faith to. But Freyr was not one of them. Anui felt a bit angered. His cool demeanor would not resonate that however. Instead he seemed to only be studying Freyr, and letting up his show of aggression whilst doing so. 

"I see. A kind one that poor thing." He said while laying his hand off and resting it to his side. He stood his full height and looked down at Freyr. Remaining eye level. "You are wise to remain vigilant in not disobeying the king. Even as you do acquire favors from our prisoners..." He faced the door, standing sideways to Freyr now. "Please do get better. Soon. I will send for you in due time." He began to exit the center. As he left he swung the door open and on the other side was a full clinic. One not Taxis and not seen anywhere else but in Nero. Anui approached a nurse, a woman in all black from head to toe and goggle like glasses on her face. "Please so to it that he gets the best of care." He looked to the door. "He may need the impurities in his blood removed..."

The nurse entered the room. She looked at Freyr with her reflective lenses covering her eyes. "Please relax." She stated. Noting Freyr's sweating as a sign of his overall uneasy demeanor. She walked over to him holding a blanket. She laid it over him and placed a small towel on his forehead. "I have been told you're here for a blood purification. May I begin?" She asked. Wanting the patient's consent before continuing.

"Blood purification?" Freyr repeated the nurse's words, looking away for a moment. He sat up again, taking the wet towel on his forehead in one hand.* "Look. I-I appreciate your help, but I think I can work this out on my own. I just... took too much. It won't happen again."
Freyr wasn't about to lose the only thing that kept his chronic pain at bay.

"If you say so." The nurse bowed out of the room. By this time however Anui was gone. So she had to return to make sure Freyr could leave appropriately. She walked over to him and placed a hand on his forehead. "Before you leave let me do a quick checkup. Are you in any pain? Have you taken this venom before and are you a constant ingester?"

"Am I...?" Freyr sighed. It wasn't here fault. 
"Yes. Constantly. Seraphim blood and a few other mixes I make helps. Thought that venom I got would go well with the mix. Guess not."
It was the first time Freyr had told anyone what he did behind closed doors. He did omit that he was practically addicted to it. Freyr was a ashamed of the whole situation, but he couldn't help it.

"I see. So you were experimenting." She kept prodding Freyr in certain places on his upper body to check off a list in her head. "Were you suffering from withdrawal symptoms?"

No point in hiding it anymore. And after what happened, maybe this was doing more harm than good. Would all that hard work go to waste because of this? He was lucky Anui found him when he did. Imagine if he hadn't. Either way, this nurse was going to find out anyway... 

"Yes." Freyr replied in a low tone. He was ashame of the whole thing. There wasn't any way to hide it now.

"Its a common issue among the upper class." She  stepped away for a moment. She seemed to be preparing something on the table. "I have something that is often used to temporarily remedy this issue." She raised an elixir. It was clear but reflected blue in the light. "Are you willing to take it?"

"I'll take it." 
Freyr had come to a realization. The need to take Seraphim blood had completely dominated his life for years. Sure, it helped with the pain and the night terrors... but it wasn't doing it for him anymore. For now, he could use this while he found a solution. Or something stronger that he could control.

"The cost has already been covered by the prince of Nero. You indeed have friends in high places." She walked over to him with a syringe needle in hand. The liquid inside. "Hold still please." She gently placed a hand on his arm. The needle dissappeared into his shoulder and so did the liquid. It only took a second. She stepped away walking to the table and placing the needle on it. "Take your time to rest."

"Truly?" 
Thinking back, it seemed Anui had taken an interest in him. He would have to be careful. Most likely, he would want this favor repaid at some point or another.

"Indeed." She gave a smile, though not visible under her mask. She left Freyr alone in the room. But not before Pointing out a black long medical robe by the door.

Freyr waited for her to leave the room before laying back down. He felt exausted all of a sudden. Nothing surprising there. After everything that had happened today, who wouldn't. Though, usually he'd smoke before going to sleep. That unfortunately wouldn't be an option anymore. All he could hope for was that whatever medicine he was given would help with his sleep. Freyr turned on his side and got comfortable, taking a deep breath before closing his eyes.
[/hider]

[hider=Interrogation]
Lila nodded, understanding what Anui meant with those words. Initially, she was pretending to tell Sleeth absolutely everything she knew about the Aion. Not only it was valuable information, that was desired by the king that she could give for free, without any repercussions but it would be a key for her to earn the King's trust. As Anui said though, there could be some things that they could keep for themselves instead of just handing over to the king. If they did it carefully, they would both please the king with enough information and at the same time, keep some of it for themselves.

[color=C6DEFF]"The information about the Aion we give to the king might be the key for us to earn his trust. We can't give him a lacking report, although if we do things correctly, omitting some information without him realizing might be doable.[/color]" Lila said, nodding towards Anui.

After they were dressed, Anui left the room and led Lila through the tortuous and almost maze like halls and corridors, all of them adorned with many different skulls from many races and creatures, ranging from beasts to heads of previous kings, royals and even seraphim. According to his explanation, each one of those skulls adorning the halls had a meaning, each one had a story behind them that was important for Nero. Lila carefully heard them, but despite her being even interested about it, it was just too much for her to memorize that fast. 

Arriving on the cells, they were greeted by Grotum, who opened the door the second Anui opened his mouth. The basiliskin girl was curled up on the corner of the room in a truly pitiable state. Lila did notice how she didn't even touch the meat that was left for her, not that she blamed her for it... After everything she saw and went through, it was understandable that she couldn't eat that meat...
[color=C6DEFF]"Thanks for your work, Grotum."[/color] Lila said as she looked at the basiliskin girl before Anui left her, saying he had to do something but would be back.

[color=C6DEFF]"Don't worry, I will be careful."[/color] Lila said, kissing him back.

After Anui was gone, Lila gave a few steps towards the basiliskin, staying far enough so she wouldn't see her as a threat and would remain calm.

[color=C6DEFF]"Calm down, I'm not here to hurt you. I only want to talk, Ni'ra."[/color] Lila began, talking with a calming voice as she said the name the basiliskin girl herself used before.

[color=C6DEFF]"Listen carefully to what I will say. I can't do much to help you if you don't cooperate."[/color] she began.

[color=C6DEFF]"Let's first start with why you're here, ok? You were sent here by your queen, to deliver a message which you didn't know the contents."[/color] Lila said, repeating what she herself had said before the king.

[color=C6DEFF]
"I know you did nothing wrong, but the very fact that the basilisk queen sent you here means that she sent you to your own death. She knew that, especially making you deliver such message, which was nothing short of a declaration of war. She allied herself with someone called Nuxta. His goal is solely to kill and destroy everything."[/color] Lila said as she waited for the basiliskin girl's reaction to her words. It was very important for her to understand her own situation.

[color=C6DEFF]"You were abandoned by your own queen and your own kin. I can't give you a home to return to nor I can give you freedom... But I can teach you how to earn it."[/color] Lila said, looking to Ni'ra with serious eyes as she waited for her reaction before continuing to explain what exactly was happening.


When Lila and Anui had arrived, they would find Ni'ra in the same corner as before , curled up just the same except this time she had her ears covered in an attempt to lessen the sounds of the screams that Grotum most likely caused  further in the dungeon. Despite her gentle approach Ni'ra still wasn't sure about this person talking to her now. She had helped her, it seemed, and she didn't seem as aggresive as the other she was with. Her mate perhaps? Nir'a thought about what the Nayu woman told her. [color=808000]"Kin... abandon Ni'ra? But why? Maybe Queen, why kin? Bazilizk no zee Bazilizkin az equal, iz becauze iz dezcendant, but never do az thiz. Ni'ra told dezcendantz evil, bloodthirzty, now Ni'ra zeez thiz too. Iz zcared, why do thingz like thiz?"[/color] she asked looking out of the bars, the sounds of their pain ringing off the walls. [color=808000]"Meat iz dezcendent flesh, Nik'ra no want, iz wrong-feeling... Ni'ra doez  not want to hurt...  doez not want to hurt otherz. Doez Queen that make bad choice mean all kin bad? Ni'ra no think zo, like zome dezcendant no zeem bad."[/color]

[color=808000]"Ni'ra iz.... at lozz. Doez not know where can go. Zo you zay kin no want, yet, zey no want Ni'ra either... What do Ni'ra do?"[/color]Ni'ra's speech was a bit erratic, bouncing from subject to subject of the responce as her mind raced, trying to stay calm but unable to do so, especially in this environment.


Lila heard in silence as the basiliskin girl spoke. She was afraid and confused. For someone who was so obviously clueless about most of the world outside her home, being treated like this was probably quite a shock for her.

[color=C6DEFF]"Calm down and listen to my words. I want you to focus on what I am saying to you."[/color] Lila said, in a calming, but serious tone as she looked straight to Ni'ra's eyes, giving her some time for her to breathe and calm down before she continued.

[color=C6DEFF]"Basilisks say descendants are evil and bloodthirsty, descendants say the same thing about basilisks. But you're not a basilisk. You're a basiliskin, Ni'ra. You're closer to the descended than the basilisks are."[/color] Lila continued.

[color=C6DEFF]"If a descended came to your queen, giving her a message that said that she could either surrender or die... What would the basilisks do with that descended...? Do you understand the situation you've been thrown in by your queen now?"[/color] Lila said, slowly.

[color=C6DEFF]"The basilisk queen commands the basilisks. If she orders, they have no choice but to obey, but you.... you are not a basilisk, Ni'ra."[/color] Lila began explaining, with the same patience someone would have to explain something for a child.
[color=C6DEFF]"Your queen allied herself with someone evil. Someone who believes that the descended must be purged and the world, completely destroyed so it can be remade as he imagines it."[/color] Lila continued.

[color=C6DEFF]"The only ones that need to be eliminated are Nuxta and the basilisk queen. For that, we need your help, Ni'ra. Do you want Nuxta to succeed? If he does, there will be nothing left. He will destroy [i]everything[/i]..."[/color] Lila said in a very serious tone as she looked to Ni'ra, giving her a moment for her to absorb the words she just said.

[color=C6DEFF]"In the eyes of the king, you are an enemy, just like your queen and Nuxta. You won't be able to be free... At least not yet. But if you help us to eliminate the basilisk queen, who betrayed you, sent you to die and allied herself with Nuxta, you will be able to earn your freedom. What can you tell me about the basilisk queen, where she is, where she lives... I need to know everything about her."[/color] Lila continued.

[color=C6DEFF]"I can take you out of here if you choose to ally yourself with us, Ni'ra. I am not like the king or the other one who wanted to kill you. You can trust me."[/color] Lila finished, as she gave Ni'ra a while to absorb everything she had just said. It was a lot of information, but for Ni'ra's own good, she had to understand it all and make the correct choice...

Ni'ra tried to take slower breathes to calm herself as best as she could as she listened. [color=808000]"Ni'ra.... doez not want kin hurt... but...  haz no anger for dezcendantz. You zay queen and thiz, uh, Nooks-tah actually enemy of both kin and dezcendant?"[/color] she asked, after all, Lila did say destroy [i]everything[/i] so that would mean that the queen not only betrayed her, but will later betray her kin? 

Ni'ra shook her head and  tried to steady her own thoughts. The accusation was quite bold, but... if it were true, the queen would be leading all of them into ruin as well, she had no thought for them at all. When Lila started asking questions about the queen she had to shake her head once more waving her hands. [color=808000]"W-wait, issss much too much, N-Ni'ra can not, eh, please...iz hard. Why queen betray, doez not care about kin anymore?"[/color]

Ni'ra was silent as the sounnd of that thought in words seemed to strike home with everrything that has happened. With a wavery voice she tried to answer best she could from what she knew. [color=808000]"Queen can control kin az to her will if need, and hear queen stay deep in cavez, yet where, Ni'ra never known. Ni'ra hunter, iz not allowed close, juzt provide food to otherz and get to keep zome az reward. Bazilizkin kept moztly zeparate from Bazilizk full bloodz."[/color]

[color=808000]"Ni'ra want to truzt [i]you[/i], but.... Ni'ra afraid of what mean if true... Ni'ra can help but..."[/color] Ni'ra was silent as she thought how to word her next phrase honestly but without angering Lila, [color=808000]"zo far, Ni'ra iz not zure about other dezcendantz. Small one is creepy, evil creature. Zen zer iz ztrange one from earlier, who ztayed wit Ni'ra. He azk for Ni'ra venom, Ni'ra warn him but waz, eh, perzizting? Ni'ra gave, zome from hunting ztick, he take and run away. Zen iz your mate. He zeenz... angry? No, iz not angry... Ni'ra can not place, iz just odd."[/color] Ni'ra stopped and looked Lila over for a moment, [color=808000]"You iz only one zat zpeak gentle..."[/color]

Lila raised an eyebrow, listening in silence as Ni'ra told her that Freyr did insist for her to get some of her venom. That information was... troubling. What was he planning to do with it? There were a few possibilities, but he could cause a lot of problems as well... But other than that, it was undeniable that Ni'ra was still very confused. Everything that Lila had said... It was a lot for her to absorb in just a moment. Fortunately, she was willing to hear her.

[color=C6DEFF]"I... don't know why your queen betrayed the descended and your kin. Nuxta's goals are clear yet... There are some who gladly cooperate with him..."[/color] Lila said, in a somber tone.

[color=C6DEFF]"Nuxta is an enemy of all life as we know. He wants to kill all descended and destroy everything, so he can create a world that is 'perfect' by his own standards... Trampling over everything and everyone in the process..."[/color] she continued.

[color=C6DEFF]"My mate seees you as a dangerous individual, but he isn't as eager to kill you as the King or Freyr, the other one who threatened to kill you before... You can trust us, Ni'ra."[/color] Lila said.

[color=C6DEFF]"Everything I told you so far is true. Unfortunately... You don't have much of a choice. The king would gladly torture you to get any information he can before killing you. I am offering you a better alternative. It's up to you if you will trust me and come to my side or not... My hands are tied unless you make the correct choice."[/color] Lila finished, as she gently extended her hand towards Ni'ra, looking to her and waiting for her reply.

Ni'ra looked into Lila's eyes, and unlike most of the people she had seen here, she didn't see any malice in them. There was no sense of danger when she reached out her hand to her. Even so, Ni'ra was nervous when she timidly reached out her hand, it was shaking slightly as she spoke up, [color=808000]"Ni'ra...truzt,"[/color] she said as she lightly clasped hands with the nayu woman.

Lila smiled, relieved that the basiliskin girl chose to trust her. If she didn't Lila wouldn't be able to do anything to help her.

[color=C6DEFF]"The situation you're in right now is a bit... complicated. You will have to pledge alliance to the king. Even if you don't trust him, I need you to do so. Otherwise you will continue to be treated as a prisoner."[/color] Lila began explaining to Ni'ra as she shook her hand in a symbol of trust.

[color=C6DEFF]
"Despite that, the one you'll ally yourself with will be me and Anui, not the king. I will train you, teach you how to wield your blade for more than just hunting. You will need it if you want to stop Nuxta and the Basilisk Queen. I won't lie to you, Ni'ra... You will have to earn your own freedom with blood. Just like once I did myself."[/color] she continued, looking to her with a serious expression.

[color=C6DEFF]"Before I can take you out of these cells, I need you to promise me that you won't betray me or Anui. You said you trust me, Ni'ra. Can I trust you too?"[/color] Lila asked.

[color=C6DEFF]"What can you tell me about the Queen and the basilisks and their fighting forces? Anything will help. Once we're done, I'm going to take you to eat something decent and for you to take a bath. Allies do not deserve to be treated the way you're currently being treated."[/color] Lila finished, making a promise to Ni'ra with a kind smile.

Ni'ra shifted uncomfortably, [color=808000]"Eh, Ni'ra never zee, but queen home iz large tower of bonez. Many ancient onez zere, including ze queen, very powerful. Queen iz queen from trial of combat, zo iz ztrongest. Az for other bazilizk, zere are few typez. Zome can have armz, legz, even wingz! Zeze can be ztrong, but onez wizout are called 'pure bloodz'. Non pure can have zkillz and magic normal bazilizk no have. More zan petrify or venom."[/color]

[color=808000]"Zen zere iz bazilizkin, like Ni'ra. We do zingz for bazilizk zat zey no can do, zince we have ze handz. We work wiz ze  dezcendantz zat rarely hang around. Make medicinez for petrify and venom, zome hunting. When Ni'ra hunt, Ni'ra ztayz low, iz quiet, zen ztrike. Zometimes can no kill in one strike, zat iz what venom for, we wait for ze game to die."[/color] Ni'ra hoped she had answered something sufficiantly, but she was worried that maybe she may not have known enough to help as Lila wanted.

Lila carefully listened to Ni'ra's words as she began telling her about the queen. Apparently she didn't know much but the little she knew was still good. The basilisk queen lived in a tower of bones, together with many ancient ones, which were noticeably stronger than normal basilisks. Not only that but the queen herself was very strong.

[color=C6DEFF]"I see... This will make things a bit more complicated..."[/color] Lila said as she continued listening to Ni'ra. 

Ni'ra also told her a few particularities about the Basilisks and their respective types. Some could use venom, could petrify and some could even use magic. Ni'ra herself was just a hunter, one of the reasons for her to not know much about the queen. Still, the techniques and skills she described could be easily used for assassination with some training. The information was honestly... Superficial, but it was still something. Unfortunately for her, she would have to prove her usefulness, not only to Lila but to the king himself by other means ...

[color=C6DEFF]"We can talk more later. I'll take you to eat something decent and take a bath. After that we can start your training."[/color] Lila said with a smile, but it ending with a serious tone.

[color=C6DEFF]"Your skills as a hunter will serve well for assassination. I will teach you to hunt more than just animals. It might not be something you will like to do, but it will be necessary for you to earn your own life."[/color] She explained to the basiliskin girl.(edited)
[color=C6DEFF]"Grotum, this basiliskin girl will be, from now on, under my care. She will learn from me and work with me. Her cell won't be needed anymore. I will be in charge of disciplining and training her. Let everyone who might come here looking for her know this. I will need the keys for her shackles too."[/color] Lila said, as she called for Grotum, but Ni'ra would also notice that her words were more than just for Grotum... She was clearly stating that Ni'ra would have to hear and obey her and Anui's orders.

[color=C6DEFF]"Meanwhile, you can tell me more about these ancient ones who live with the queen. What they're capable of, their skills, abilities and how new queens are selected. We must be sure that the future basilisk queen won't ally herself with Nuxta..."[/color] Lila said waiting for Grotum to hand her the keys so she could free Ni'ra.
Ni'ra quietly listened to Lila talk about her plans for her. She was unsure if she could become what Lila wanted her to be, but right now, they would be leaving this cell it seemed, and maybe then she could voice her concerns. The word 'assassination' flew over her head, as most longer words do, and she wasn't yet too keen on Lila's mate yet, but she had not talked to him as much as she spoke with Lila. 

[color=808000]"Go to river? Eh, or maybe pond?"[/color] Ni'ra asked wondering about the bath. She knew a good couple bodies of water close by, [color=808000]"What Ni'ra need hunt? Ni'ra can hunt firzt, bathe after, zo clean after hunt."[/color] She didn't think about an actual bath or prepared meal. For Ni'ra, food came from hunting, and  bathing was done out in the water.

Grotum quickly obeyed Lila. He took the key from his chain and handed it to Lila. She now had a key for the chains in this dungeon. "Perhaps this will help my lord." Grotum approached Ni'ra and placed a chain shackle around her neck. He then attempted to hand it to Lila.

[color=C6DEFF]"I will take care of it. Thank you, Grotum. Remember what I said about Ni'ra. She will be under my responsibility."[/color] Lila said, taking the shackle from his hands as he approached the basiliskin girl and the key.

As she approached Ni'ra, Lila immediately freed her, taking off her shackles before she leaned forward to speak to Ni'ra. 

[color=C6DEFF][I]"I'm sorry. It is just for now, just for show. I will take it off the moment we get away from here."[/I][/color] Lila said in a low tone as she put the chain shackle around her neck. It was clear for Ni'ra that Lila didn't enjoy that either, but she indeed had to keep the appearances.

Lila gently led Ni'ra out of the cells, holding the neck chain but still leading her by the hand, as she walked through the tortuous hallways, going back the exact way she came.

Once they were a bit far away, she went closer to Ni'ra, taking the neck chains away.

[color=C6DEFF]"Do you have any preference regarding food?"[/color] Lila asked as she lead her to the kitchen.

[color=C6DEFF]"I will be writing down any information regarding basilisks you have as you eat. After that you will take a bath and we will start your training."[/color] Lila said, as she continued leading her down the hallways.

The kitchen was near the living quarters and was accessible from all wings of the castle. Lila's first time leading the walk in these halls would be full of strange feelings. Her eyes saw nothing out of the ordinary. But she could sense a presence always watching. She could hear the walls vibrating like water rippling on its surface. But most importantly she could begin to smell the ingredients in the kitchen. This time there will be no door to open. It was open to all to enter and leave. In fact many of the servants came and went from there. Behind a closed door was where the chefs did the cooking for all royals. Tirelessly they baked and cooked whatever was wanted. Thankfully not many in Nero's royalty are gluttons for more than blood. But when they did eat they only wanted the most delectable of meals. The head chef could be heard occasionally shouting from behind the door. There were many already prepared meals on a long square of tables and seats. Whenver a royal was hungry they could walk in here and feast. Or request something be brought over wherever they resided. The room was quite fanciful. Paintings of deadly beautiful flowers hanging high on the walls next to candle lit flames. It was busy yet peaceful.

Ni'ra actually took a step back from Grotum when he approached her with the collar, not wanting him to get close to her. Luckily Lila took charge instead, and even though Ni'ra obviously was wary about having a collar around her neck, she let Lila put it on, listening to her explanation as she did so. SHe never seemed to let go of Ni'ra's hand as they walked away either. It was honestly quite comforting after how the day has gone so far.

Lila quickly made good on her promise and removed the shackle from her neck. Ni'ra wasn't sure how far they were from the dungeon, as she didn't look up from the ground,not wanting to see the heads again. She did notice that the stench of blood, rot, and death were gone, and replaced with something else entirely. It was a warm and pleasant smell. Lila then asked her what food preferences she had. [color=808000]"Ni'ra like meat...but... not like meat creepy man give. Ze harder ze hunt ze more reward it feel. Iz zing called 'phoenix chiken'. Zome wild in grazzy placez. Iz zmall, but iz very fazt, but sssssso good! Iz only zing Ni'ra can not help but eat in one bite!"[/color] she said, slowly getting excited thinking about it.

When they got to the kitchen, however, Ni'ra was a tad bit confused. Her tongue would rapidly flick in and out from between her lips often as she tried to identify what this place was. The chemicals and pheromones were all over the place, and her sense of smell was rapidly trying to identify things that she had never smelled before. Something seemed somewhat familiar, she remembered some odd descendants used to put fire to their meat instead of just eating it. Ni'ra never tried it before because she thought they may be burning it. But, it was not just meat, there were a number of other strange things their being inserted or withdrawn from large fire boxes. Plants, gooey blobs she didn't know was dough, pans of ascended only knew what, only to come out looking completely different!(edited)

There were even large pots of some liquid material that others were putting in bowls, it seemed to have chunks of other things in there as well. All the different smells and the tables lined with food nearly made Ni'ra's head spin. [color=808000]"Feh!? What iz place? Iz food? Ni'ra never zee before!"[/color] Ni'ra's eyes were wide with wonder, her old curious instinct starting to flare back up as she started taking steps into the kitchen. She wanted to see what the chefs were doing and get a closer look at the food, often looking back to Lila and back to what she was curious about. She obviously really badly wanted to learn about everything in here, but wasn't sure if she would get in trouble if she poked around too much. Ni'ra still held on to Lila's hand though, and would not take a step farther than her reach, in fact, the end of Ni'ra's tail even started to coil around Lila's arm as well, just to be double sure she didn't lose track of her.

Lila wasn't that surprised when she heard Ni'ra's preferences for food. Since she was a basiliskin and lived most of her life with basilisks, it was to be expected she would eat mainly raw meat. That said, she didn't blame the basiliskin girl for not eating the meat Grotum gave her... 

[color=C6DEFF]"Phoenix chicken... It sounds exotic."[/color] Lila replied. She had never heard about such animal, but Lila was never interested in cooking nor she was a 'hunter' in the traditional sense of the word, so it was only to be expected.

[color=C6DEFF]"I never heard about it before, but your enthusiasm made me curious. If we find any on the kitchen I will ask for it to be prepared for us."[/color] Lila replied, letting out a discreet smile, satisfied that the basiliskin girl was feeling better.

As she made her way to the kitchen with Ni'ra, Lila couldn't help but to feel quite the strange sensations. Even if there was apparently nothing out of the ordinary, she could feel the walls vibrating almost like if there were ripples on its surface and a faint, but strange presence, giving her the feeling she was being watched. Even though she was able to hide it from Ni'ra, such sensations did put her at guard, until she finally began feeling the smells from all the ingredients in the kitchen. There was still much about the castle that Lila didn't know, but she would be sure to ask about those specific sensations to Anui later...
When they arrived on the kitchen, Ni'ra was quick to express her confusion and amazement with the scents of all the different foods and spices that were omnipresent in the kitchen. It was honestly a bit overwhelming even for Lila, but for Ni'ra, who probably had senses as sharp as, or even more than, Lila, it probably was much more impactful.

[color=C6DEFF]"The scents you're feeling are many different spices and condiments, all used to give the food a different taste. The same meat can be prepared in a thousand different ways, all of them tasting incredibly different from one another. Have you ever had cooked food?"[/color] Lila asked as she headed further inside, still holding Ni'ra's hands.

Lila did take some time trying to find someone who wasn't frantically working on a dish or busy with something, but after a few moments, she was finally noticed by one of the cooks as she made a signal for him to approach her.

[color=C6DEFF]"Do you have any Phoenix Chickens to prepare? Two dishes should be fine. If you don't, just one serving of regular meat should suffice."[/color] Lila said as she waited for his reply.[/hider]