[center][img]https://cdn.discordapp.com/attachments/682678547374145573/684583633100865536/97b22764970c1985ad4f7b573619b7c7.png[/img] & [img]https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/divinus-mk4/images/c/c3/Blue-heart.png/revision/latest?cb=20200229114953[/img][/center] [hr] Oraelia stirred, having slumped from a daze. She sat upon her porch, long after Evandra had gone. They had watched the clouds for a long time, enjoying each other's presence. She knew not how long it had been since then, for her mind had wandered after consuming the berries. It was a period of low, but not entirely terrible. She wanted more, but Evandra had warned her of consuming too many. Nevertheless, she left a bush in Oraelia’s realm. Oraelia just had to make sure a certain Genesis didn’t find it. She could only imagine what they would do to her. Oraelia got up and traveled back inside, up the stairs. Perhaps Genesis had finally awoken? She arrived at the room and opened the door quietly. She scrunched her nose when she saw the same familiar bundle under the covers. The slow rise and fall reassured Oraelia that Genesis still breathed and thus, was still alive. As she shut the door, the thought was an odd one, needing to breathe being a God. She hadn’t needed to when there was no oxygen, yet it felt so natural. She rubbed her brow as she went down the hallway. She opened the door to her room. Her room was far larger than depicted from the outside. A vaulted ceiling with two massive skylights in the roof hung far over her head, illuminating the rich comforts the room offered. Such comforts she had no idea existed until she willed them to be. There was gilded furniture, a grand bed that could fit her, Gibbou, and three Genesis’ comfortably, and a variety of live plants as well as a small trickling fountain that worked as a stream running down several layers where it sat in the corner. She made a beeline for her dresser, where a mirror awaited her. She sat down and went to work on her hair, putting her wavy locks up into a messy bun. Loose strands fell down either side of her face as she looked at herself. Satisfied, she got up to leave but paused as she took in her figure. She wore nothing. She did not feel ashamed of her nudity, but perhaps it was time to take a page from Gibbou. She snapped her fingers and a wardrobe appeared beside her dresser. She opened it to reveal many clothing items with another mirror on the inside of the door. She began to rummage through, picking one she liked to keep and snapping the others out of existence. She would have to do the same with Genesis once she awoke. For now, she chose a short dress, sky blue in color with two small straps. She looked at herself in the mirror and frowned. It needed something. She rubbed her chin and then realized what she was missing. Deep within her wardrobe she reached and pulled out a sunhat. Large brimmed and cozy, it nestled upon her head and complimented her look. She smiled and shut the wardrobe before leaving the room. Oraelia headed downstairs and outside, where she went for a walk. But a short time later she paused as her thoughts turned to the mortal world below. She answered prayers, healed those she could and offered her advice where she could. She checked on Solus, only to find him ripping apart a stone troll, throwing it’s chunks at those who fled before his radiance. Oraelia paused in the path as next she watched through his eyes as he extended a hand to a fallen caravan. Bodies dead, children crying- loss. It broke her a little further. She knew it was happening all over Galbar. Try as she might, she could not be everywhere all the time, and neither could Solus. Nor could Lucia, or Sanya. The druids were a good start, but she needed more. Another solution. Beings who could wield her light, who could help those in need with love and compassion yet still protect with a guiding hand. An idea struck her, but she couldn’t do it alone. She would need help and she knew exactly who she would seek. [color=gold]”Neiya? Can you hear me?”[/color] she asked, sending her thoughts towards her sister. A moment of silence followed, enough to convince the less hopeful that no reply would be forthcoming. Then, the familiar spark of connection, thoughts returned. [color=8493ca]”...Oraelia? Is that you?”[/color] a thought bubbled back to Oraelia, along with a stretch of emotional turmoil. A brief pang of anxiety, and uncertainty. [color=8493ca]”...Is something the matter?”[/color] Oraelia grew concerned at Neiya's response but carried on. [Color=gold]"Um… No, everything is fine. I just wanted to talk with you about a proposal I have. Is that alright? If now isn't a good time I can get back to you later if you'd like?"[/color] she said gently, letting her warmth go Neiya's way. The brief wash of emotion faded away, and it wasn’t long before a conscious stream of more vibrant feeling returned in an initially silent response to Oraelia’s warmth, before the goddess of love responded properly. [color=8493ca]”What do we have if not time? I will hear your proposal.”[/color] Oraelia smiled happily and became giddy. [Color=gold]"Excellent! Okay so lately I've been seeing a lot of people who need help down on Galbar and I can't be everywhere at once as much as I'd like to be so I thought why not take a page from Gibbou's book and create a race who can protect life during the day. Obviously I can't do it alone and I thought who better to ask then my sister Neiya! With her love and compassion and my life and sunlight we could do a lot of good. That is if you're willing?"[/color] Oraelia asked, out of breath as she sent her happiness towards Neiya. There was a brief pause, before another reply came. [color=8493ca]”With my love? I am touched that you thought of me, Oraelia. I have only ever joined in the creation of one species, so I am worried that you will have to guide me. I wish for nothing more than to show my love to the world beyond, if you would have me.”[/color] [Color=gold]"Don't worry about it, I've only created animals so you're already ahead of me!"[/color] Oraelia said. [Color=gold]"So yes, I would have you."[/color] Oraelia was assaulted by another short wave of emotion, a warmth not unlike what she had responded with in the past. [color=8493ca]”Perhaps we could meet? This sensation we are sharing now is taxing and unfamiliar to me. A being so bright should be admired in person.”[/color] [Color=gold]"O-Oh of course! Uh, Genesis is still sleeping so I'm free to go to your realm or you can come to mine. Usually I'd just recommend coming here but if you're more comfortable in your realm I that's okay."[/color] Oraelia sai.d. [color=8493ca]”I would love to see your realm one day, Oraelia,”[/color] the distant goddess replied. [color=8493ca]”I must confess however; I’ve had some… unfortunate… encounters with our kin recently, and this shared land between our realms feels very foreign to me. It would mean so much to me if you came to see me in my realm. Perhaps you could help me spark some life in it.”[/color] [Color=gold]"I can do that for you."[/color] she said with sympathy in her voice. [Color=gold]"I'll be there soon."[/color] Again the goddess was met with a brief wash of relief and warmth in their shared connection. [color=8493ca]”I look forward to your visit. I will ask the trees to bloom in your honor.”[/color] The connection faded between the two and Oraelia began to walk off over to her portal. Before she did that however, she went and checked on Genesis one last time, just to make sure she was sleeping. And the little plantie was, so as much as she didn't want to go, Oraelia locked the door on her way out and then left her own realm after a quick walk. She then hesitated again before reassuring herself that Genesis would be okay. It wasn't long before she came before the familiar view of Neiya's portal. Tentatively she took a deep breath and then passed through. The realm beyond was not a particularly inspiring view for the Goddess of Life. Much like she had sighted the first time she had gleaned through the jagged tear that was the entrance to Neiya’s realm, the landscape was dominated mainly by a barren and wide plain, with short stalks of grass almost ashen grey in colour, and the dirt below seemed lifeless and bleak. All around her were sparse pockets of dark trees, with twisting branches that hung in wait for a bloom that seemed like it would never come. A river cut through the landscape, a rapid stream of clear water, seeming to wind endlessly in the distance. Perhaps even more out of place was the singular, dark wooden door that seemed haphazardly halfway between the entrance to the realm and the river. It had a golden doorknob, with a shining amethyst embossed on it. A stark contrast to the rest of the landscape. That seemed to be all there was to Neiya’s realm, until a single motion caught Oraelia’s view. Past her eyes sailed a small deep blue butterfly, fighting through the quiet realm to fly off into the distance with determined beats of its wings. Its destination could be sighted in the distance, a single dense grove of trees upon the plains. They were unlike the rest she could see; even from her distance she could see the bloom of soft pink and hues of gentle red. Petals whirled with a gentle wind, raining the ground below with a bed of soft pink. A tranquil scene in an otherwise troubling landscape. Oraelia made her way there. The walk was dreary, perhaps even a bit depressing but that didn't stop her from looking to the horizon. It did leave questions on why Neiya's realm was so bleak, however. She would have to ask her sometime. Oraelia broke through the treeline, and stepped into the thicket. It was like entering a different world entirely. The gentle rustle of trees, the falling petals, a whole throng of butterflies peacefully sailing around. If the entire realm had been like this, it would have been a paradise. As the bright goddess continued, another new sight became apparent. The trees parted and gave way to a clearing nestled deep within the miniature forest. Again, the quiet rush of the river made itself apparent, snaking from one side straight through the grove and out the other. In the middle of the clearing sat a sizable pavilion, hewn masterfully out of marble and granite. A small path interspersed with white flagstones pushed the river aside to give access to the pavilion, which was otherwise surrounded by the clear water. As though the trees had ended already, Oraelia felt her feet touch the first smooth stone on the path. Even from afar, she could see the easily recognizable silhouette of the love goddess, sat reclined on a throne of sorts, embellished with silver and draped ornately with fine silks in blue and silver. Oraelia waved as she approached, a smile breaking out on her lips. [Color=gold]"Hey Neiya! Isn't this just a lovely little place? It makes me so happy."[/color] she gushed as she made her way into the pavilion. Neiya rose from her seat as the life goddess approached, the ever present frown a thin and mellow purse of her lips rather than any clear display of displeasure. Feet on the marble, she stepped forward to meet Oraelia as she walked into the refuge at the centre of the thicket. She bowed her horned head with a tranquil grace, clasping her hands formally in front of her. [color=8493ca]”Thank you for the kind words, Oraelia. It pleases me that you like it. I must say I consider it peaceful. When I asked them to bloom on your behalf, they could not resist.”[/color] Oraelia smiled as her body grew slightly brighter. She then gave a curtsey in return, dipping her head lower than average. As such her sunhat slipped off her head. She looked back up at Neiya with embarrassment before grabbing her hat and putting it back on. [Color=gold]"S-Sorry about that. It's a new look for me."[/color] she confessed. [Color=gold]"You're too kind Neiya."[/color] she then continued, [color=gold]"I'm surprised your realm isn't always like this. To be in the presence of love is to bloom with life."[/color] Ice-blue eyes followed each motion of Oraelia’s, each twist and shift in her features and demeanour. Her head tilted gently as she watched the goddess, a slight narrow of her gaze with no following change to her expression or tone. [color=8493ca]”We are both trying beguiling new looks, then,”[/color] she offered with a gentle lift of her hand towards the blooming trees. [color=8493ca]”As you say, love is an unstoppable sensation of life. How fitting then, that we are here together now.”[/color] Neiya took a single step towards Oraelia, hand raising slowly and tentatively as she continued. [color=8493ca]”What wonders shall we make today, Oraelia?”[/color] Oraelia tilted her head, eyes twinkling as she looked at Neiya and then to her hand. [Color=gold]"Here, let me show you! It'll be easier than explaining."[/color] Oraelia said before grabbing Neiya's hand with both of hers, much to Neiya’s apparent surprise. A feeling of warmth flooded into Neiya as a vision of a man came before her. He was young, with huge bird-like wings, a flaming sword and halo of sunlight hovered above his head like a crown. The image faded as Oraelia left her impressions on Neiya of a race molded after him. Oraelia then spoke as Neiya's vision came back to view a giddy sun goddess. [Color=gold]"I daydream a lot but that's the general idea. A race of humanoids who can fly, protect the life that they will come to love and flourish under the sun. I think you and I could make them through use of our avatars. The Luminant will be their home, I've seen from my holy site that there lives small colonies of humans and Sylphi there. They would fit right in before expanding to help the rest of the Toraan, then the world! What do you think?"[/color] she said enthusiastically, letting go of Neiya's hand. Neiya retracted her hand as she flexed her fingers, watching the happy sun goddess intensely. For a time, she remained like that, lost in her own thoughts, until she blinked at last and lifted her chin ever so slightly. [color=8493ca]”Certainly an impressive vision, Oraelia. Such a being would be free, able to spread love to all corners of the world, just as you said. Unhindered and strong.”[/color] she said, with a deepening frown twisting her features. [color=8493ca]”For too long did I suffer the cries of anguish from the mortals beyond. This would be a force to be reckoned with. To put the savagery to rest once and for all, and allow love to flourish.”[/color] Oraelia looked at Neiya, her golden eyes going wide as she noticed the frown upon her face. [Color=gold]"You've... Suffered sister?"[/color] she asked quietly. [color=8493ca]”No.”[/color] Neiya responded with some clarity, though her eyes held their sorrowful expression as she regarded Oraelia. [color=8493ca]”Or, perhaps I have,”[/color] she continued musing, exhaling a slow breath as both her hands reached out to mimic Oraelia’s past gesture, seeking a single hand to grasp hold of with gentle grace. [color=8493ca]”But no more than a parent suffers when their children stumble and fall. I-... I don’t have an avatar. Cadien said that it was reckless. But I fear I have waited for too long to reunite with our children.”[/color] Oraelia smiled as she gave Neiya her hand. She then said, [color=gold]"Oh Neiya… It's never too late. I should know, I left my daughter upon Galbar while I slept and only now am I building up the pieces of our relationship again."[/color] she gave a gentle squeeze. [Color=gold]"The only thing reckless is not trying and letting the problem or problems we face, go on further. The mortals need us, perhaps more now than ever before. Why not try?"[/color] A flash of determination ran through the Love Goddess’ features, followed by a definite rush of a tingle communicated through their touch as emotion seemed to roil within Neiya. She nodded at Oraelia, taking another step closer to diminish the gap. [color=8493ca]”You’re right. Nothing will happen if we do not make it happen. You’re as wise as you are bright.”[/color] Oraelia grew even brighter still as she shuffled on her feet, bobbing her shoulders up and down as she looked to her feet and then to Neiya's face. She felt strangely nervous in Neiya's presence. [Color=gold]"Y-You're too kind. I just like helping people, and inspiring them. That's all."[/color] she said bashfully, heart pounding in her chest. [color=8493ca]”You’ve inspired me with all kinds of ideas, Oraelia,”[/color] the horned goddess uttered with a breathy whisper, gently leaning forwards as she gave her hand a gentle squeeze, eyes intently watching her yet. [color=8493ca]”I look forward to sharing them with you.”[/color] A pause, a gentle crane of her neck, and then Neiya gently released her hand. She lifted both her hands upwards, gently grasping the sunhat and adjusting it to rest neatly on the shuffling life goddess’ head. With that, she swept to the side with a silent drift along the marble and drew a long, tranquil breath. Her hands ran to touch Oraelia’s shoulder with a few brushes of her fingers. [color=8493ca]“But perhaps we should begin with yours? Perhaps it is time I create an avatar. For both of our benefits. Do you have any ideas?”[/color] Oraelia straightened herself and fixed the creases in her dress as she looked at Neiya with fascination. She felt all sorts of things about her but she needed to remain focused. [Color=gold]"Avatar. Yes! Um well, if you don't have any concrete ideas, perhaps you could mold him or her after what I showed you?"[/color] she inquired. Neiya lifted a few inches from the ground, hand lifting to gently touch at her own chin in brief thought. Relieving Oraelia of her immediate presence, the horned goddess floated a small distance towards the wide river that ran alongside the edges of the pavilion. [color=8493ca]”Yes, I should very much like to try.[/color] she concluded as she turned back towards the Bright One. Neiya drifted back to Oraelia, coming to touch down on the ground beside her. [color=8493ca]”So, I-... shape something out of my own essence?”[/color] Hand lifting, she closed her eyes and focused her attention forwards. The wind around the pavilion picked up in an instant, whipping and howling as flurries of petals spun into the river in beautiful patterns. One such spiral carried with it water as it spun into the pavilion itself. Gentle threads extended from the Love Goddess’ hand, wispy tendrils that seemed to reach out towards the spiralling energies. The strands connected, and with a sharp breath the goddess visibly imparted part of herself, letting her divinity flow free towards the spiral of petals and water. The result was a whirling cascade of colours, deep blue, gold, pink. It spun in place like a typhoon, slowly taking shape to something vaguely humanoid. With a final exhalation of expended effort, Neiya lowered her hand, and the tornado fell still, washing over the stonework they stood on. As water and petals washed away, in its place stood a pale woman with dark hair, several heads taller than a mortal human, though not unlike them - or indeed Neiya herself - in features. On her head were a single set of dark horns instead of a halo, though other than that she had not inherited Neiya’s horned attributes. Under her eyes were patterns in the same likeness as the Love Goddess herself. The woman blinked at the two divine observers, and immediately knelt to the ground subserviently. On her back was a pale comparison to the envisioned wings of Oraelia’s idea; more akin to the coloured plumage of a bird, a wingspan barely made itself apparent in a blend of blue, gold, and pink intermingling to form new colours. [color=8493ca]”...Not exactly what you showed me. It was-.. Hard to focus. I’m sorry, Oraelia.”[/color] Neiya concluded wistfully as she beheld her creation, who waited dutifully knelt on the ground. A reassuring hand fell upon Neiya’s shoulder as Oraelia went to her side. [color=gold]”Nonsense! She’s beautiful Neiya! And so… So tall! I love her already, but she does need a name, don’t you think?”[/color] Oraelia gushed as she looked at the new avatar. [color=8493ca]”A name? Yes-.. I’ve never. Never named a being before,”[/color] the horned goddess admitted with a certain glee shining through her worries and woes. [color=8493ca]”How about… Aveira?”[/color] [color=paleturquoise]”Aveira.”[/color] responded the avatar, lifting her chin to look up at the two. She smiled, a confident and charming affair. [color=paleturquoise]”I know my purpose. The time for action is now. Love must be allowed to spread.”[/color] [color=gold]”Welcome to life Aveira!”[/color] Oraelia exclaimed, clasping her hands together. [color=gold]”Yes! Love should spread and you’ll be such a great help! Through you wars can end and the land can be in peace and harmony. Oh, it’s wonderful!”[/color] she looked back up at Neiya. [color=gold]”I’ve sent Solus to the Luminant, he should already be there actually.”[/color] she said, rubbing her arm. [color=gold]”I may have sent him there before I came to see you, but it worked out!”[/color] [color=8493ca]”Her will is my will,”[/color] Neiya offered crisply to her avatar. Aveira nodded sternly in turn, still knelt on the ground. Without another word, the winds picked up again, and the water on the ground began to twist and roll along the stone. Before the two goddesses, a vortex of water and energy spun into motion beneath the avatar, and the ground opened up beneath her, offering brief and chaotic glimpses of what was unquestionably the Luminant. Aveira sank into the vortex as she rose to her feet, and as swiftly as it had picked up, the vortex closed and vanished, leaving the stonework wet and with the avatar nowhere to be seen. Somehow, Neiya managed to look both incredulous and pleased with herself. [color=8493ca]”I can-.. I can see so much, now.”[/color] [Color=gold]"Avatars are incredibly useful. They provide us with a stronger connection to Galbar. Ingenious really."[/color] Oraelia mused. [Color=gold]"Ah, I can see Solus just found her. Are you ready to begin?"[/color] Neiya turned to look at the bright goddess. After a moment of hesitation, her hand reached forwards, fingers nestling against Oraelia’s own hand. [color=8493ca]”Guide our way, Goddess of Life, and we will begin a new era for Galbar. Together.”[/color] Oraelia took Neiya's hand within her fingers and then grabbed her other and faced her. [Color=gold]"Together."[/color] she nodded before closing her eyes. Like before, the area around them began to gust, sending leaves, flowers, and buds into a frenzy in the air. Oraelia’s breathing slowed as she worked through Solus’ eyes. Aveira was beside him, good. She could feel Neiya waiting for her, and without further ado, the Goddess of the Sun beckoned life to come. And they came. From the trees, from the ground, from the very air, they came. Beings from her imagination, taking shape before her very eyes. They started as shimmers, hazy and without form, but slowly, ever so slowly- They took shape. A torso here, a hand there, a head, feet. It was a delicate process, one that could not be disturbed and the Luminant knew this, for not a sound could be heard in the land. More and more materialized, wrapped in their wings, eyes shut to the world around them. They took Aveira’s height, these… Aiviri, yes. Aiviri was what they would be called and the tallest of them was half of Solus. They had white wings, golden hair, and many different skin tones. Most were quite attractive, their features soft and kind to the eyes. Oraelia ushered them to wake, breathing in precious life to their souls. Slowly and surely they began to open their newborn eyes, amazed at the world around them. Yet, they needed more, Oraelia knew this. Simple white garments materialized around them as a start. She then unlocked within them ability to use her sunlight as a tool for life and growth. Next she let the sunlight nurture them, renewing their bodies but not age, so that they could always be youthful and in a prime state to protect life. As she added these traits to the Aiviri, she felt a pinprick in her mind, intrusive and alarming. She reached out to Neiya questionally, but stopped when she saw what her sister was doing. Visions and emotions streamed through their connection, flashing before Oraelia’s eyes and consciousness in equal measure, joined as she was in both hands and energy to the Goddess of Love. The intrusive pinprick became an overbearing ache as images of pain, injury, suffering and war flowed free to mingle with their new creations. She saw her constructs once more, and became intimately aware of an endless variety of weaponry - polearms, swords, bows. If another mortal race had used it, it seemed to bubble to the surface now, reimagined as long and sleek weapons of light. With it came a primal knowledge, the means and intent do to harm. The authority of power, and stewardship through force. Though she had come to work alongside the love goddess, there seemed to be no such emotion spared for their shared creation. An audible gasp ran from Oraelia, ringing loud and clear between them. She spoke between the connection they shared, horrified. [color=gold]”W-What are you doing N-Neiya!”[/color] But Neiya did not reply. Oraelia felt her hands gripped tight, saw through Solus how Aveira lifted up off the ground as a vortex of divine energies continued to flow unabated and with ever greater force to manipulate their new creations. Violence, resentment, even outright hatred rushed through gods and mortals alike at increasing intensity. What was at most a harrowing sensation for the sun goddess was taking a greater toll on the Aiviri, some of whom fell to the ground helplessly, twisting in agony as their minds were assaulted. Others raised their eyes and arms to the sky to accept this new sensation, and Oraelia saw the features of her creation begin to warp before her eyes. Wings were staining in new colours, both natural browns and terrifying hues of red and black. Aiviri turned pale as snow as life itself and all joy seemed to drain out of them. A building sense of malice rocketed through her connection to Neiya - a perpetual dread that warped the very being of the Aiviri. Oraelia tried again in vain to stop Neiya but she saw how her sister warped the Aiviri and how those who had fallen were in such agonizing pain. She turned her attention to those in such a poor state, flooding them with her life and mending, enveloping them with her light. She protected their features, golden hair and sunkissed skin. Their features grew kinder, softer, and within them blossomed an ability to heal. She attempted to change back those that Neiya was influencing but it was no use, more and more fell so Oraelia protected more before her sister’s touch corrupted them further. The Luminant was no longer quiet, but a maelstrom of emotion and turmoil. Oraelia spoke again to her sister, [color=gold]”Neiya! Stop this! Please!”[/color] she cried loudly. The goddess of love was not listening, as Oraelia’s only reply was continued assaults upon their creation, a painful grip on her hands to keep them both in what had once been a tender hold. [color=gold]”Y-You’re hurting me!”[/color] Oraelia cried out again, struggling to break free. When no more remained of the Aiviri - either twisted into a terrifying shadow of the peaceful guardians they had been intended to be, or blessed by Oraelia’s light to resist the scourge of dread and pain, the twisted creation of Neiya’s turned their attention upon their former kin. From Solus eyes she saw Aveira lower her arms, turn towards him with malice in her gaze, and redirect the last of her divine energy towards him, an act of betrayal just as the creation she had helped twist. Solus was struck in his chest, the mighty giant falling over from the blow. As he landed, her connection to him faltered and Oraelia opened her eyes to see a maelstrom of energy not unlike the one that had assisted in the creation of Aveira - only now it enveloped the both of them and the pavilion, a raging torrent of divine energy that seemed to center on them. It flowed over Neiya in waves, who not unlike the Aiviri had warped and twisted in shape; a process she was still undergoing as Oraelia opened her eyes to the chaos. Her skin had gone from merely pale to a white, with flowing white hair cascading down over a slimmer face. The ice-blue eyes stirred with renewed vigor, red and black swirling with an animosity reflected only in the horrors of emotion she had made Oraelia suffer. Gone were the horns, replaced with bony extrusions on her face and shoulders that melded seamlessly with her skin. Metal-like jagged edges grew out around her protectively, dangerous ornaments of beauty and violence. Fingers like talons dug into the sun goddess' hands, the frown on Neiya’s lips tantamount to disdain. Oraelia looked down at her hands, now dull, almost ashen in color. She saw her ichor dripping down on the floor, and looked back up at Neiya, horrified. She tried again to free herself but struggled in vain against her sister’s iron grip, [color=gold]”Let go of me!”[/color] she shouted as tears streamed down her face. [color=8493ca]”You wanted my attention, Oraelia.”[/color] the once-horned goddess echoed with a venomous, haughty tone. [color=8493ca]”Here it is. My undivided attention. Now you don’t want it?”[/color] Neiya breathed a sharp chuckle, equal measures fascination and malice. She lifted from the ground as the swirl around them dissipated, forcing Oraelia up with her. A brief, painful lift, before she rocketed forward, crashing them both up against one of the pillars holding the pavilion up. Oraelia finally had her hands free, but at the cost of the rampaging goddess pushing her in place. White talons reached to touch her chin. [color=8493ca]”I thought you understood, my sweet. We must take action. The naivete of love through guardianship is a delusion. We must bring love to them. We sit idle for a breath, and a thousand mortals suffer.”[/color] A shocked look was on Oraelia’s face, as she attempted to push her sister off her, but it was no use again. She shook her head, rearing from Neiya’s touch as she spoke back to her, [color=gold]”No no no! This isn’t what I wanted Neiya!”[/color] she struggled again to break free, [color=gold]”I only wanted your help and now you’ve gone and twisted them! Why! Why would you do that! Just let me go!”[/color] she cried looking up at Neiya with fear in her eyes, [color=gold]”You brought violence to them! Not love! And violence brings suffering! You hurt Solus! You hurt them!”[/color] she gritted her teeth. Neiya flashed an expression of unfettered fury, the storm in her eyes swirling without mercy. [color=8493ca]”You’re as ignorant as the others, Oraelia. I did you a favor, and you fight me. Do you think love is free? Do you think love is simple?”[/color] she spat out with building frustration on top of her already hair-trigger temper. Her eyes stared straight into Oraelia’s own, as her clawed fingers reached out to caress the sun goddess cheek. [color=8493ca]”Let me show you what love truly is.”[/color] Neiya’s palm rested itself firmly against Oraelia’s cheek, cupping her face forcefully as her eyes filled and turned as white as her skin. After the briefest pause, an onslaught of emotions barraged Oraelia’s mind; a wild and unfocused maelstrom made up of worry, sorrow, hatred, despair, longing and dread. Interspersed were brief flashes, memories of peace. Pink petals falling to the ground. Images of Cadien’s embrace. An ocean. Lovers declaring their love for eachother. The crying humans on the riverbank, and what they felt as Neiya called their sorrow to the forefront, and the anguish as they realized their friend was a murderer. Any peace, any joy, lost in a constant barrage of pining, loss, envy, and unrequited love. It was maddening. The connection broke after what felt like an eternity, talons gently scraping along Oraelia’s skin in a twisted caress as her palm lifted. [color=8493ca]”Now you see. Now you understand. We can spread love together. Whatever it takes.”[/color] she uttered with considerable calm. Oraelia’s eyes were hollow. Her entire body had lost its lustrous shine, her light had faded as she looked up at Neiya with a gaunt face. Everything she had felt, every bit of emotion, came as a blow over and over again. It ruined her, and was draining. Yet Oraelia could not help but feel sorry for Neiya, she was no longer so afraid of her or so angry. It all made sense, since that day so long ago by the riverbank. She had just been too blind to see it. Neiya was Love, yes, but she focused on all the negative and in that moment, Oraelia pitied her and something else deep down. It took every bit of strength in her body, but she managed to lift a hand and place it on Neiya’s cheek. [color=gold]”I…”[/color] she said weakly, [color=gold]”I’m s-sorry. N-Neiya… There is m-more to Love, than t-this obsession y-you’ve inflicted... u-upon yourself.”[/color] she then gave her a small feeling, one she felt towards Gibbou, then to Genesis, then to life as a whole. It was not powerful, nor overbearing, but was pure. A gentle warmth, a kiss on the cheek, watching growth, feelings of doubt, a reassuring touch, the words ‘I love you.’ They were her own feelings of love, and she knew not if it was enough, but she had to try to show Neiya, even with all the bad and the negative, the positive still existed. Through all the tears and pain, love could still endure. Her hand at last dropped, and a single tear ran down her face as she looked to see what Neiya would do to her next. Neiya’s dark eyes opened wide, transfixed and wholly surprised by the rush of emotions, despite its waning strength. It seemed enough to shock her, and in the aftermath of Oraelia’s reply, the ivory skin under her eyes burned with a warmth and gentle colour that seemed to stir great turmoil in the goddess. Her hand recoiled from the sun goddess face, her body shifting uneasily in place as she began to turn away. Given a moment’s hesitation, Neiya drifted away in shocked silence, releasing Oraelia from where she had trapped her, and letting her sink to the ground. Instead she hovered to the center of the pavilion, touching at her cheek in distant, demure thought with white talons as she hid her face from the exhausted Oraelia. Despite her treachery and brute assault, the anger did not seem to return, nor did she have a retort. Oraelia, through her pain, smiled weakly at the sight. [color=gold]”N-Neiya… It’s o-okay to… f-feel… ha-...”[/color] she tried to say, voice fading as her eyes fluttered shut. [hr] Her eyes snapped open and she looked around, unfamiliar with her surroundings at first before she blinked and sat up slowly. She was in her room, tucked in. A wash of emotions came over her as the last thing she remembered was being in Neiya’s realm. She clutched her heart, the pain of those emotions still there like a dying coal. She looked down to her hands. They were barely glowing, having healed slightly, but the scars of Neiya’s fingertips were still there. Something wet fell on her hand, and her eyes focused on a golden tear. Why did that…? Her eyes began to water, before the floodgates opened. She tried to stop it by placing a hand over her mouth and wiping away her tears, but it was no use. The Goddess of Life cried and for a very long time. [hider=Summary] Oraelia is restless in her own realm. Genesis is still asleep, and Oraelia has plenty of time to ruminate on her recent experiences with both protecting life on Galbar, and other encounters. She feels as though her own efforts and Solus’ are not enough, and dreams up an idea of creating a new race of guardians that will safekeep life with care and compassion when her attention is not enough. Remembering the goddess of love, Oraelia contacts Neiya and explains her idea. Neiya appears initially happy to hear more and invites the Life Goddess to visit her bleak realm. After Oraelia navigates through Neiya’s bizarre realm, the two meet and discuss ideas. Neiya comes on strong and seemingly manages to charm Oraelia out of any second thoughts she may have had. The two talk more, and Oraelia witnesses the birth of Neiya’s avatar, a loyal construct with features vaguely resembling Neiya herself. She sends her avatar to meet Solus in the luminant, and the two goddesses join hands to collaborate on the creation of Oraelia’s majestic vision; the Aiviri - seven to nine foot tall angelic humanoids with an affinity for life. Initially all goes well, and Oraelia bestows some blessings on the new guardian race. Neiya however, Oraelia learns, is imparting something entirely different than what she promised onto these new beings, teaching them about war and twisting their gifts towards violent purposes. Oraelia tries to confront Neiya, but is unable to stop her from corrupting a large portion of the Aiviri with new gifts of war and terror, twisting their appearance and demeanour until they no longer resemble their origin in anything but shape. Unable to stop her, Oraelia instead blesses those Aiviri that remain to resist Neiya’s influence, blessing them with new sun-blessed features. This war of divine power goes on until no Aiviri is untouched, and the race is split down the middle into two categories: The Oraeliari, and the Neiyari, respectively. The two races immediately begin fighting as the Neiyari turn on their kin, and Neiya’s avatar attacks Solus. In Neiya’s realm, Oraelia confronts Neiya, and is shocked to learn the true nature of the Love Goddess, who undergoes a transformation more in line with her new decisive and violent nature. Neiya forces her emotional turmoil on a drained Oraelia, who responds by showing Neiya a glimmer of pure love without conditions or limitations. Neiya is shocked enough to stop her assault, but Oraelia passes out from exhaustion. When she wakes up, she realizes Neiya has carried her back to her own realm despite her previous betrayal. [/hider] [hider=MP] Oraelia 5MP/5DP -3MP to claim the Renewal Port. -2MP - Sharing cost of Aiviri. Through Oraelia’s contribution, Aiviri are inclined to care for life in all of its aspects and have an affinity for light. However, once the Aiviri split, her Oraeliari have become the embodiments of these aspects, while still maintaining affinities from Neiya’s contributions. -2DP (Enhanced with Sunlight port) To grant some of the Aiviri to wield sunlight for various applications. From war, agriculture, to building, they are able to create constructs of light during the day or where light is strongest at night (ex. The Luminant). These constructs and tools are able to be made permanently but wear down in dark areas if used until extensively and shatter to glass. They work as solar batteries, absorbing light to use as power. Weaker light sources provide less energy. Outside of daylight and bright light sources, they cannot be made at night and need an external source of light to maintain proper functionality (Ex. Fire, things that emit light naturally, etc). It is very much a learned skill and with any craft, they take time to make. -2DP (enhanced with renewal port) - To grant the Aiviri with the ability of renewing their bodies to their prime state. All Aiviri are capable of using sunlight to rejuvenate themselves, though they still grow older in age. Oraelia granted this so they could best protect life and not feel the passing of time upon their bodies. An unintentional side effect after the Aiviri split into Oraeliari and Neiyari, is that they can use this ability further and under emotional duress, an Oraeliari can renew itself to a Neiyari and a Neiyari can renew itself to an Oraeliari. They maintain memories of their previous life, for they aren’t truly dying, but just becoming something else. Usually these memories are foggy and they have a new appreciation for their respective side. -2DP (Reduced to 1DP with Healing Port) - To grant the Oraeliari with the ability to heal wounds of the physical nature. An ability with varying levels, mainly being the older an Oraeliari is, the better they are at mending. They are also able to help one another heal others, combing their powers. They also can use sources of health in the world to greater effect. -1MP (Reduced to 0 with sunlight port) - to bless some of the Oraeliari with sunlight halos. These halos provide light and warmth but only appear on those most devoted to life. Oraelia 0DP/0MP & Neiya 5MP/5DP -5MP - Claiming the War Domain. -2DP - Sharing cost of Aiviri. Through Neiya’s contribution, Aiviri are naturally predisposed towards battle and war. -1DP To teach the Aiviri how to properly wield their sunlight ability for the purposes of combat. Sunlight weaponry is about as good as steel and inherently does more damage to creatures of the night. These weapons can usually take more punishment at night time or in the dark, before breaking and sources of light provide them with more durability in such places. Their weapons absorb more light, and thus are able to work longer. These weapons take a long time to manifest and craft and cannot be done on a whim. -2DP - To grant the Neiyari the ability to cause fear and dread in onlookers. As mortals and animals look upon a Neiyari, a gnawing sensation of fright will begin to build in the back of their mind. This building dread will intensify the longer one looks at it, and amplifies irrational emotional responses until the victim is terrified beyond reason. To a lighter degree, they inspire unease and tension with their presence. (2 towards Terror) Neiya 0MP/0DP Terror - 2 / 5 [/hider]