[center][img]https://cdn.discordapp.com/attachments/681136503774380292/751179306201383123/CelestineToken1.png[/img] [img]https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/divinus-mk4/images/c/c3/Blue-heart.png/revision/latest?cb=20200229114953[/img] & [h1][color=violet][b][u]Cadien[/u][/b][/color][/h1] [/center] [center][h1][color=gainsboro]A[/color] [color=violet]pleasant[/color] [color=8493ca]visit.[/color][/h1][/center] [hr] It had been a somewhat short amount of time since Celestine had modified her realm and things had generally settled down into a general routine and normalized once again. Celestine was once more sitting upon the throne that overlooked The Longhall to keep an eye on the general attitude of any souls that may have been passing through. Since she had the downtime to reflect upon recent meetings she had been in, Celestine took the time to think a bit further back in her time that she had been independent from The Lifeblood. A thought that came to mind was that she hadn’t kept in touch with Cadien. Her first meeting with another god was a pleasant one, and perhaps now would be a good time to catch up now that she had been a bit more active? Rising from her throne and heading to her visitation chamber Celestine stepped out from her realm and into Antiquity. Extending her divine senses outward she looked around for the portal that would lead to Cadien’s realm. Finding it almost immediately Celestine proceeded to step inside. Once the realm coalesced around her, she took a moment to examine her surroundings before announcing the intent of her visit to Cadien as she had done with Thaa. [color=gainsboro][b]”Greetings, Cadien! It has been some time, but I have come to visit with you once more. If you are not occupied with something, would you care to catch up?”[/b][/color] Once her greeting was given, Celestine merely waited to see if Cadien would respond. Hopefully she had been loud enough in her announcement that his divine senses would pick up on it. She didn’t move too far from the portal that would lead back to Antiquity in the event that she would possibly not be a welcome visitor or the possibility that Cadien was out of his realm and doing something else, and she figured that it might be rude of her to go and merely wander into another god’s realm as if it was her own. As she waited she would take a few moments to examine her surroundings to see if Cadien had made any significant changes to his realm like she had just recently done with hers. While she did this she would rest her right hand upon the pommel of her sword and taking a more relaxed stance than her usual approach. Compared to the naive and freshly born goddess that had wandered into his realm by mistake Celestine seemed to be almost an entirely different person by now. A number of changes had indeed been made. Where once there had been three islands, there were now dozens, expanding as far as the eye could see. All were inhabited by a plethora of different species, many dressed as warriors, though the armour they wore was as varied as their species. [color=violet][i]Celestine?[/i][/color] Cadien asked. [color=violet][i]Ah! Come on in. I am in my castle, as usual.[/i][/color] Celestine gave a nod to Cadien’s voice and walked briskly up towards his castle. As she approached the main gate she took a moment to admire the craftsmanship that went into the castle. Her own freshly renovated castle was a sight to behold, but there were fine details that only the god of perfection would think to implement. Pulling her attention away from the stonework Celestine would return her attention to the original goal that she had come to the realm for. Entering into the throne room, Celestine would approach Cadien with a gentle smile upon her face before taking a moment to curtsey out of politeness. When she stood up she would rest her right hand upon the pommel of her sword again before speaking. [color=gainsboro]“Greetings Lord Cadien. How have you been? I took notice of many new islands floating about your realm. Are you in the middle of a project or is that simply the natural expansion of things?”[/color] When she finished speaking Celestine would take a moment to glance about the throne room and see if there were any new additions to the interior as well as the exterior, though her gaze didn’t wander far from Cadien himself as she didn’t want to be too impolite by paying more attention to the surrounding area than the conversation at hand. The throne room was unchanged. Cadien himself was seated on his marble throne, a dark-haired Neiyari standing by his side. [color=violet]“If you’ll recall our past conversation,”[/color] Cadien said, [color=violet]“I mentioned reaching out to the God of Death. I have done so, and he has agreed to give me the souls of fallen warriors who share my ideals. I have expanded my realm in order to house them. Now, what about you? How have you been?”[/color] Celestine gave a few nods at what Cadien had said before replying in kind. [color=gainsboro]”Ah. I do remember. I’ve reached out to them myself a bit, and have the same kind of bargain myself. I expanded my realm just recently to accommodate a project that I’m working on. Overall I’ve been well, thank you for asking. How have you been doing? Are your projects going well? Do you have something that you think you need assistance with or input on? I’ve learned the value of having an alternative viewpoint to something recently and can offer my thoughts if they’re needed.”[/color] [color=violet]“You made a bargain with him as well?”[/color] Cadien asked, raising an eyebrow. [color=violet]“I was never informed of this. What were the terms?”[/color] Celestine gave a nod at Cadien’s observation before elaborating upon the conversation that took place some time ago. [color=gainsboro]”Yes. They said that the terms should be roughly equal to the terms that you have also laid out in the bargain that you made. At the time of my visit they did not mention you by name but did mention that another deal had been made. So the souls that we have bargained over have three destinations to choose from. Though I have had another clause added to my bargain. Those who I dub with the title of ‘Ser’ will be guided to my realm exclusively when the time comes for them to pass onto the afterlife. Does this amount of information satisfy you, Cadien?”[/color] [color=violet]“Is it only those who bear that title that get taken?”[/color] Cadien asked. Celestine would shake her head briefly. [color=gainsboro]“Not exclusively. As I was informed when the souls pass onto the afterlife they are given a choice of which realm to go to and so some come to mine out of choice rather than direct guidance. The title of ‘Ser’ serves as a sort of beacon for them to come to mine, as I understand it. It is possible for them to be taken, but as part of the bargain I have been charged with rectifying such a theft personally and not bothering Thaa over such a thing.”[/color] [color=violet]“Hm. It is still rather rude that I was not informed of this sooner…”[/color] Cadien said. [color=violet]“But, I digress. It seems our realms now fulfill a similar purpose. Not necessarily a bad thing. Hm…”[/color] the God stroked his chin thoughtfully. [color=violet]“What sort of afterlife awaits those who are taken to your realm?”[/color] Celestine gave an apologetic nod. Perhaps it had been her duty to inform him of such a bargain being made, and if it had been she had seemingly neglected it. An unfortunate circumstance but one that could not be corrected by now. Speaking once again, Celestine addressed that thought before too much time passed. [color=gainsboro]”It may have been possible that it was my duty to inform you of such a bargain being made. I had presumed that Thaa would be the one to update others involved in such a bargain when new parties made a similar contract. Thus, if that is the case, you have my apologies for neglecting such a duty until now.”[/color] Taking a moment to pause, Celestine would continue and answer the other question that Cadien had posed. [color=gainsboro]”What awaits in my realm is a grand feast that never ceases, and then tournaments for those who wish to battle even until the hereafter. I also permit sparring and training as visitors wish, and so generally speaking my realm is a place to enjoy martial prowess to its fullest.”[/color] [color=violet]“Hm. I intend much the same, myself,”[/color] Cadien said. [color=violet]“In fact I have already implemented such features. Which makes it seem odd, that mortals must choose between the two when the primary difference lies only in which god owns the realm. Two friends could fall on the same battlefield. One could go to your realm, while the other could go to mine. It might be somewhat disheartening, when they realize they are apart from one another. Hm.”[/color] He inclined his head slightly. [color=violet]“How would you feel about a connection that allows travel between our realms?”[/color] Celestine gave a nod to this suggestion before speaking. [color=gainsboro]”I would not mind it, since the concern that you raise is valid. I could create a passage here and you could create a passage in my realm? Then the construction of each passage will provide a fair indicator of which realm it will lead a soul to?”[/color] [color=violet]“Perhaps,”[/color] Cadien nodded. [color=violet]“Mayhaps it could also lead to some interesting competition. If the warriors of my realm were to compete with the warriors of your realm. We could stage tournaments, duels, perhaps even battles. I’ve had few opportunities to test my own wits and skills against another diety, and even fewer on friendly terms. What say you?”[/color] Celestine would bring a finger to her chin for a few moments before nodding. [color=gainsboro]”I would not be opposed to such an idea. A competition of friends and allies would certainly be interesting. Perhaps we could both create our own battlefields and alternate between them for each tournament?”[/color] [color=violet]“Yes,”[/color] Cadien nodded. [color=violet]“That would be interesting. I suppose we could even create rewards or incentives for those who distinguish themselves, too.”[/color] Celestine would nod a few more times before speaking. [color=gainsboro]”This would likely be a good incentive, but what rewards would you argue to give? Recognition for performance would likely only go so far.”[/color] “It is a challenging dilemma,” Cadien agreed. “What rewards can appeal to those who are already dead, who already live in a paradise, and will continue to do so in perpetuity? Hm. Places of honour at feasts, perhaps? Ranks or titles? It’s hard to say.” Celestine would bring a finger to her chin once more as she briefly bowed her head in thought. A risky idea came to mind, but it would serve as something that was a worthwhile cause to offer to a soul with nothing else to gain. [color=gainsboro]”It would likely require us to speak with Thaa for a bit, but perhaps it would be a worthwhile idea to promise the greatest victor the chance at reincarnation? Tis the only thing that I could think of that would be tempting to a soul with naught else to want for.”[/color] Cadien did not get the chance to immediately reply. An uncharacteristic rumble echoed through the back and side of his throne room, seemingly emanating from one of the many decorated doors in his luxurious manse. Without further warning, it flew open to reveal the slender warm red arm that had forced it open. Into his realm strode a red-skinned horned woman, dressed in luxurious clothes that seemed to be distinctly crafted to accentuate her silhouette. The blood red glow where her eyes should be twisted with her head to settle on Cadien upon his throne, and briefly; Celestine. Behind her followed two likewise horned and tailed women who appeared vaguely identical, though their skin were pale and blue respectively. Their eyes glowed with gold and white, and they lifted grand copper horns as they came to a standstill behind their comrade. Blowing the horns, they played a simple but bombastic tune as the red-skinned creature dipped into a deep and extravagant bow. With grand words, she spoke. “Alas, too short was our past visitation. Now our Queen languishes for the embrace of her one and only. A tale as old as time itself, a lover seeks her match to have and hold in trial and tribulation.” The horned woman fell silent, and slowly righted herself. Silence followed. When the group of newcomers arrived, Celestine’s resting hand gripped the pommel of her sword briefly before relaxing. Thankfully she didn’t otherwise display too many signs of her surprise at their sudden appearance. Turning herself slightly to face a sort of middle ground between the trio of newcomers and Cadien Celestine returned the bow out of pure instinct and deeply rooted courtly manners. Listening to the announcement that the seeming leader of the group made she couldn’t help but wonder who it might be. It was then that the thought struck that these were likely handmaidens of Neiya. When that revelation was made, the rest fell into place easily: When they had first met and Cadien was giving her an overview of the others, he had expressed on at least one occasion that he loved Neiya dearly, so it was only natural that Neiya would be present within his realm on at least a semi-regular basis. Giving a nod at the announcement to acknowledge it, Celestine refrained from speaking in order to not disturb the arrival of Neiya. Though she did note that Neiya seemed to be delaying her arrival a bit and had possibly left her handmaidens in a slightly awkward situation as they announced her arrival long before she would actually arrive. Perhaps something spontaneous had come up and needed addressing? Or was it possible that Neiya simply enjoyed building suspense before revealing herself? Celestine resigned herself to not ask such a dangerous question. Only moments later, Celestine’s theory received it’s answer, as a fourth shape emerged from the open archway. Just above the ground hovered a pale young woman with hair the color of platinum and icy blue eyes, and long blue markings running beneath her eyes. Black horns sprouted from her head and shoulders in an almost crown-like and regal manner, a distinct contrast to the shackle clasped around her throat. Naked feet dangled precariously only inches from the opulent flooring in Meliorem, and the horned lady drifted forwards as the trio of heralds skirted out of the way and closed the door behind her. Her eyes found Cadien first, and moments later the icy gaze found Celestine instead. Her brows furrowed, and a thin frown formed on her features. She appeared as though she was going to speak, when her red-skinned herald returned with a poorly-timed skip forward, gesturing lavishly towards the goddess. “Behold! Our glorious Queen, Neiya!” Cadien rose to his feet, while the Neiyari who had stood silent and impassive all this time dropped to one knee. The God of Perfection approached the Goddess of Love. [color=violet]“Neiya,”[/color] he smiled warmly. [color=violet]“It is good to see you.”[/color] He gestured to Celestine. [color=violet]“This is Celestine, a new goddess who only came into being recently.”[/color] Then he looked back to Neiya. [color=violet]“How are you? Is everything alright?”[/color] The horned goddess' gaze slowly drew away from Celestine at Cadien's attempt to draw her attention to other matters. When she finally focused on him, it was with a brief and theatrically hurt look, and she sighed with a familiar, forlorn bitterness. [color=8493ca]"I had a mind to visit with my beloved, though I know no longer if I'm wanted. Celestine?"[/color] She questioned with another exhalation, though extended an arm to drape onto his shoulder affectionately. Her horned herald clutched at her own heart and sighed in an attempt to match the forlorn state, but earned a shove of an elbow from one of her pale companions to snap out of it. [color=8493ca]"What manner of goddess are you, pray tell?"[/color] Celestine’s vision nearly moved downward to examine the entirety of Neiya’s form before quickly locking itself to Neiya’s face after she realized how little the goddess wore. The clearly out of place interjection of one of the handmaidens was slightly awkward and moderately amusing but Celestine knew better than to comment on it lest she risk provoking the wrath of the people present. The other things that Cadien had mentioned about Neiya made themselves relevant in Celestine’s mind as Cadien seemed to quickly move to defuse a situation that might be brewing when Neiya furrowed her brows and began to frown. Once their brief exchange was over Celestine grasped at the edges of her cloak like one would a skirt and curtsied to Neiya. Once she stood she would begin to answer the question posed to her. [color=gainsboro]”Greetings, Queen Neiya. I am Celestine, Goddess of Soldiers. My particular focus is on Knights. I have heard many glowing things from Cadien about you, and it is a pleasure to finally make the acquaintance.”[/color] Celestine would then give Neiya a slight smile, though internally she hoped that her choice to focus on the good things that Cadien had said about her would do to diffuse the seemingly upset attitude that Neiya had briefly begun to gather when she found the goddess present. Having another idea come to mind, she presented an option to resolve the situation before things got too out of hand. [color=gainsboro]”If my presence disturbs anyone involved, I can certainly take my leave until later? I do not wish to intrude upon the plans of others by being present where I am not wanted.”[/color] Neiya seemed to ignore that final comment from Celestine, and instead let her morose gaze roam the soldier goddess. Her fingertips brushed up against Cadien's cheek briefly in a show of affection, before the goddess hovered forwards towards Celestine instead. That same hand extended towards the new goddess, the back of her hand pointed flat towards the ceiling. Her chin raised to further enforce her regal affectation. [color=8493ca]"What glowing words resonated with you, Goddess of Soldiers? What did my beloved sing of me?"[/color] Celestine kept her vision locked upon Neiya’s face as she approached. The extended hand proved to be a point of confusion for Celestine. Did Neiya want her to take it? Or perhaps it was merely kept there out of habit? Was she going to repeat the same gesture that she had done with Cadien just now? What would be the lesser offense, to take the hand or to leave it? Choosing what she hoped would be the lesser of the two offenses, Celestine opted to not take the hand and instead began to share what Cadien had said when they first met. [color=gainsboro]”When he first mentioned your name, he immediately followed it up by saying how dear you were to him. Then he also made the clarification that he found you to be beautiful, witty, and calming.”[/color] Celestine knew that she was lying via omission, but her desire for peace and respect for Cadien led her to set aside one of the aspects of her chivalric code. As she did so, she pondered on how rigid her interpretation of such a code was. Perhaps allowing for some flexibility would be of greater benefit than sticking to so rigid of an interpretation that it caused more harm than good? In this situation, it certainly seemed to be a wise decision. Neiya retracted her hand with practiced grace, her eyes following Celestine's lips as she spoke. Soon enough, she touched her own cheek and seemed to light up with a polite, faint hint of a smile. [color=8493ca]"Oh, my. What a lucky goddess I am, to have such a charming love,"[/color] she breathed with a considerably less standoffish tone, before drifting backwards in the air to approach Cadien again. She gave him a brief but intense look, bumping into him gently before wrapping an arm over his shoulder. [color=8493ca]"I hope I'm not intruding on anything formal. I wouldn't want to disrupt anything."[/color] [color=violet]“It is no issue,”[/color] Cadien smiled, feeling some level of relief as he wrapped an arm around Neiya in return. [color=violet]“Celestine and I were simply discussing a joint product. The fate of the souls of the warriors who perish on Galbar. It seems we have similar ideas, so it only seemed sensible to discuss the matter further.”[/color] Celestine would nod at the mention of the discussion that she and Cadien had been having before the arrival of Neiya. Thinking back a few moments to recall the idea that she had put forward Celestine would take the time to reiterate what she had said. [color=gainsboro]”Indeed. As for where we left off, I would make the proposition that perhaps for the supreme victor of the overall tournament have the opportunity for reincarnation. What more could be offered to a soul that wants for nothing than the chance to live again?”[/color] Shifting her stance slightly Celestine would finish her thought after a few moments of silence. [color=gainsboro]”We would likely have to speak with Thaa about it, since he is the overall manager of souls in the afterlife and may not be so keen to have a soul return to Galbar.”[/color] Neiya seemed indifferent at best, Cadien's explanation quickly glazing her eyes over. By the time Celestine was elaborating, she had already decided to inspect her nails instead. [color=8493ca]"How perfectly droll, to waste so much effort for so little,"[/color] she interjected with a simple sigh, still caught up with her own preening. [color=8493ca]"If I held such, I'd simply offer to fulfill their desire and be done with it. Besides, the Lord of Death is terribly long-winded. Only Yamat talks more than he."[/color] Cadien furrowed his brow. [color=violet]“You speak with Yamat?”[/color] [color=8493ca]"Hm? Oh,"[/color] the goddess began, pausing to glance up to Cadien with deep blue eyes. [color=8493ca]"It's a long time ago now. He accosted me in the… square area. He gave me some advice on how to be tougher. Looking back, I… well, I'm trying to be better now."[/color] Apparently finding her own explanation satisfactory, she resumed looking at her nails. [color=violet]“You could have told me about it, my love,”[/color] Cadien said. [color=violet]“I’ve told you before, but Yamat is not to be trusted.”[/color] He ran a hand through her hair. Celestine had begun to move to thank Neiya for her input before Cadien stepped in to address Neiya apparently speaking with Yamat. She remembered that Cadien had held a distinct dislike of Yamat when she had visited previously and so waited to see where the discussion would lead. After it appeared to finish Celestine took a moment to speak again. [color=gainsboro]”Thank you for your input, Neiya. That is something that I had considered offering, though if the mortal requests reincarnation we would likely have to speak with Thaa about it regardless. I would not want to violate the agreement that had been laid down to attain the souls in the first place by releasing them back to Galbar without Thaa’s permission should he have an unspoken rule about such a thing.”[/color] Celestine quietly hoped that there was no such unspoken rule, as she considered such a thing disgraceful since it often led to someone breaking the rule and incurring an unfair punishment. Thankfully, given her interactions with Thaa in the past and his overall lack of deceitful speech she gave him the benefit of the doubt in this case. The discussion was interrupted by a light thud against one of Meliorem’s doors, followed by an even lighter thud as whatever struck it fell to the soft carpeted floor. With a puzzled expression, Cadien walked toward the door from which the sound came, and opened it. On the floor was a rather peculiar and dazed looking bird, that Neiya would recognize as one of her own creations. [color=violet]“Hm. How ever did that get in there?”[/color] Cadien asked confusedly, snapping his fingers. Just like that the bird was restored to health. It chirped happily then took flight, landing on Cadien’s shoulder and chirping again into his ear, before flying once more toward Neiya, who it began to circle excitedly. Neiya sighed softly, extending her finger slowly to coax the little critter to land on her hand. [color=8493ca]”Poor thing, it must have tried to get to us for so long.”[/color] Neiya brought the bird closer to her, and watched it with indifferent eyes. [color=8493ca]”Do you like birds, Celestine? I imagine my beloved has tortured you only with facts and thoughts since your meeting.”[/color] Celestine would look quickly to the door as a thud emanated from it. The motion caused her hair and cape to flick slightly, but they settled down shortly thereafter. As Cadien inspected the situation to find that it was just a bird that had impacted upon the door Celestine relaxed again and returned to her original orientation as the bird flew over to Neiya. When the bird landed upon Neiya’s finger Celestine could only assume that it was a creation of hers, though she wasn’t exactly sure as it could simply be the creation of another god that was sent to interact with her. As she was asked for her opinions on birds, Celestine gave a nod and began to speak. [color=gainsboro]”Birds are pleasant beings, I have a preference for either hawks or eagles personally as they’re dependable for hunting and scouting. But birds are all overall pleasant to be around. Do you have a preferred kind of bird, Neiya? What of you, Cadien?”[/color] [color=violet]“I made a species of birds long, long ago,”[/color] Cadien mused. [color=violet]“Well, not me. The essence that eventually became me.”[/color] He snapped his fingers again, and one such bird appeared on the table: it was bright and colourful, with its very feathers seeming to sparkle and glow. It squawked and looked about in confusion. [color=violet]“They’re quite common, at least on the Toraan continent. Most mortals call them glowbirds, glimmerbirds, glitterbirds, or some variation of that.”[/color] He beckoned with his hand, and the bird swooped forward to perch on his arm. He looked to Neiya. [color=violet]“Perhaps I could send some to your realm, in return for what you sent to mine.”[/color] [color=8493ca]"Of course, my love. As many as you want,"[/color] Neiya cooed in response, busy with gently petting her own bird with a finger. She glanced to Celestine again. [color=8493ca]"I too enjoy hawks. I do enjoy most predators, though. They know to take their place in the world, wouldn't you agree?"[/color] Celestine would spend a moment thinking before nodding in agreement and speaking to Neiya. [color=gainsboro]”I would have to say that I agree. They are born with a distinct purpose in life, and are designed to serve that purpose well. I suppose that in a sense they could theoretically be considered perfect since very little is wasted when it comes to their form. They need to fly? They have wings. They need to see? They have good eyes. They need to hear? They have good hearing. They need to hunt? They have talons and a beak. And so on. Everything about them has a purpose and very little is there needlessly.”[/color] Cadien shook his head. [color=violet]“And yet they’re very fragile. If caught on the ground, or by a larger bird, they will not win. They have a role, and they fulfill it well, but they cannot be considered perfect while such a weakness remains. I don’t think there is a single species on Galbar that can be considered perfect, to tell the truth.”[/color] Celestine gave a few nods to what Cadien pointed out before speaking once more. [color=gainsboro]”Of course. I was thinking too narrowly in my assessment. Thank you for your wisdom. How could they be made perfect, then? I would be interested in hearing how you achieve total perfection in a design.”[/color] [color=violet]“It is both simple yet frustratingly complicated,[/color] Cadien said. [color=violet]“You must remove all flaws, while achieving the maximum potential of all possible strengths. Yet one must tread carefully, because new strengths may create new weaknesses, and removing one weakness may expose another."[/color] he explained, while Neiya leant in to whisper to the translucent little bird resting in her hand. It fluttered away to hide in the ceiling somewhere. The love goddess appeared to have lost patience, hovering nearby Cadien as he kept explaining. [color=violet]"A truly perfect perfect species would theoretically be undefeatable, and capable of doing anything. Of course, the world would be a dull and stagnant place if all species were like that, and such a thing would be unattainable without divine aid anyhow. I’m not averse to giving mortals aid from time to time, but I find it’s better to give mortals the tools or encouragement they need to improve themselves on their own.”[/color] Celestine raised a finger to her chin as Cadien explained the difficulties of perfection and gave a few nods of understanding. She took notice that Neiya had begun to float behind Cadien’s shoulder, and thought that perhaps she might desire to say something? Figuring that the best way to give her a chance to speak would be to ask her opinion, Celestine did just that. [color=gainsboro]”Thank you for your wisdom once again Cadien. Did you have something you wished to add, Neiya?”[/color] Neiya raised her gaze to scrutinize Celestine, vulnerable eyes glittering in the light enough that they seemed to shift to a golden hue for just a moment. She sighed dramatically and drifted forwards, slinging both arms over Cadiens broad shoulders to embrace him from behind and look over his shoulder. [color=8493ca]"Oh, no. I couldn't. Unlike my beloved, I don't have a head for all this talk of altering mortal limitations, and perfection. I am trying to change for the better, though,"[/color] she explained with a tut, and leaned her head against Cadiens. [color=8493ca]"You were a recent creation, no? Have you offered her a taste of mortal delights, my love?"[/color] Neiya continued, rapidly changing both topic and focus. Her eyes shone with intent, though kept their raw and emotional look. Cadien frowned in puzzlement. [color=violet]“We have had maybe two interactions thus far, in both of which we have discussed purely practical matters. Why?”[/color] [color=8493ca]"Why, we have a duty to educate our kin, don't you think?"[/color] the horned goddess mused as naturally as she could, but still managed to sound conspiratorial. She turned to the neiyari guard, who up until now had managed to escape her notice. [color=8493ca]"You. My child. What is your favorite food?"[/color] That guard was none other than Dakari himself, who seemed put on the spot by the question. “Berries, your holiness,” he said, keeping his head bowed low. The horned goddess watched him for a few moments, allowing silence to overtake the halls. When she turned her head, her expression was formal and friendly, even though she did not smile. [color=8493ca]”That is what we shall have, then. A grand platter of all the worlds’ sweetest and most delightful berries. Oh. What about those bells you made, my love? A sweet wine would be grand, don’t you think?”[/color] Cadien was a bit perturbed by the turn in conversation, but eventually shrugged. [color=violet]“Does that sound agreeable to you?”[/color] he asked Celestine. [color=violet]“It would be no trouble for me to summon forth food and drink.”[/color] Celestine raised a finger to her chin momentarily. While she did enjoy the company of other gods, she also had things to manage within her realm… But at the same time this could serve as something that would serve to build bridges of alliance which would undoubtedly be good to have later. Her projects could be put on hold for a bit. Nodding, Celestine vocalized her decision. [color=gainsboro]”I will happily at least try these things. Though I must say that I cannot test such things too thoroughly as I have projects within my realm that I aim to see finished sooner rather than later given the current affairs upon Galbar.”[/color] Lowering her hand to the pommel of her sword once again, Celestine would wait and see what Cadien and Neiya had in mind. Cadien snapped his fingers, and an assortment of small bowls with berries and nuts from all across Galbar appeared on Meliorem’s table, along with bottles of ale and wine. [color=violet]“That should suffice, if you only wish for a taste.”[/color] He walked toward a bowl of red berries, and picked one up. [color=violet]“These are evening bells. Whoever eats them will be infused with a burst of fiery emotion. They affect everyone differently, and us gods will need to eat at least a few before we notice any difference. If you do eat them, try not to over-indulge.”[/color] He popped the berry into his mouth. [color=violet]“Same with the drinks, too, though we gods have a strong resistance to that as well.”[/color] Celestine raised an eyebrow at the assortment of berries and nuts that appeared. Pacing around the table for a few short moments she gave a few nods before listening to Cadien’s explanation for the evening bells. A burst of fiery emotion? Perhaps not ever, then. Celestine did enjoy having all of her emotions thoroughly contained and accounted for. Taking a few more glances at the assortment of nuts she gently plucked one from a bowl. Holding it aloft and studying it for a moment Celestine would extend her hand towards Cadien and ask a simple question. [color=gainsboro]”Do we have a name for these? They are moderately intriguing due to their shape.”[/color] Little did Celestine know that she was simply holding an almond. [color=violet]“That’s an almond,”[/color] Cadien said. He took the bowl of evening bells in one hand and held it out to her. [color=violet]“You really should try a few. They’re quite delicious, and the effect shouldn’t be too extreme. Unless you were to eat the entire bowl.”[/color] Celestine took a moment to consume the almond she had already picked up. The taste was mundane and earthy. Simple and yet appealing. She might have to see about gathering a stock of them for her Virtus Elves later. As Cadien held aloft the bowl of evening bells and encouraged her to try them Celestine relented. If they were as harmless in small amounts as Cadien insisted they were then perhaps just one wouldn’t be too terrible. Even if it was she could use the negative experience to warn her Virtus of them for when they were sent down to Galbar. Reaching forward, Celestien took one from the bowl gingerly. Taking a moment to study it she made a few mental notes on their appearance so that she could better identify them on Galbar if needed. Then she finally placed it within her mouth and bit down. The taste of them was quickly forgotten as Celestine’s mind quickly composed an image. She saw thousands of soldiers, each of them wearing armor polished to a gleaming shine. Surrounding them stood hundreds of Death Dragons of various hues and appearances. All of them were looking up towards her, waiting to see what orders she would give. As quickly as the image came, it went. All that was left of it was a sweet aftertaste within her mouth. Celestine’s eyes narrowed slightly as she considered the danger that such a fruit presented. It would be a long time before she would eat another. Giving a few nods towards Cadien and Neiya, Celestine commented upon her experience. [color=gainsboro]”Sweet and appealing in taste, and their effect is quite interesting. Though I will say that I find myself reluctant to indulge in them. They feel… Somewhat risky to consume while I am in the middle of seeing a plan to fruition. I would not want my designs to become more than they should be by virtue of being inflated by dreams of glory.”[/color] After that Celestine fell silent once more to continue contemplating upon what she had experienced. [color=violet]“Hm. How odd. Perhaps you have an unusually low tolerance,”[/color] Cadien mused. [color=violet]“But fair enough.”[/color] He extended the bowl toward Neiya. [color=violet]“Would you care for one as well, my love?”[/color] Neiya, who had up until this point simply hovered in place to watch, drifted forwards to dip her hand in the bowl and scoop up a good handful. She gingerly pushed one past her lips and gazed fervently at Cadien as she popped it between her teeth. Another bell followed, and she glanced to Celestine instead. [color=8493ca]"Sometimes a little risk in a safe place can be all you need."[/color] Celestine pondered what Neiya had said. Perhaps taking a slight risk would be a worthwhile experience? But then what if she became dependent upon them for her plans? Or, what if she became a goddess of uncontrolled passion that orchestrated plans so grand and complex that they took far too long to see to completion? Giving her head a shake, Celestine gave her a more firm answer. [color=gainsboro]”I’m afraid I must once again decline. Perhaps when I want for ideas or am at a loss for where I should direct my efforts I will indulge in them, but I do not have a mind to do so now. I do apologize if this isn’t quite what you wanted to hear, but I do not wish to see that which is nearly completed brought low by my own hubris.”[/color] When she was finished, Celestine pondered for a moment over the way Neiya had looked at her after eating the second evening bell. What plans could she be making? Celestine could only guess, but she buried those thoughts quickly. It would not do to create an imaginary enemy out of someone that was merely curious or contemplative. The horned goddess exhaled sharply, offering a brief display of muted amusement. [color=8493ca]"I wasn't offering, Celestine. Just a-... piece of advice. Although…"[/color] she offered softly, pressing another evening bell between her lips. [color=8493ca]"You're welcome to visit me if you ever are, at a loss, as you say. We all need a break, eventually. Except my beloved, of course-"[/color] she said, and drifted backwards to place a hand on Cadien's cheek. [color=8493ca]"He's always keeping an eye on his mortals. More than on me, I fear."[/color] [color=violet]“Are we not having a break right now?”[/color] Cadien asked her, turning around to face her. [color=violet]“If you wish for me to visit more often, you need only to say so.”[/color] Neiya produced something that could vaguely be called a chuckle, and leaned in to kiss his cheek as her hand slipped away. Celestine would give a nod to Neiya’s advice, and when she made an interesting offer Celestine took it under consideration. It would be interesting to see how Neiya’s realm looked in comparison to the two realms that she had seen thus far, not counting her own. Watching with only a slight amount of interest as Neiya and Cadien began to seemingly dote upon one another a bit more, Celestine took it as an invitation to perhaps see herself out so that Neiya and Cadien could more thoroughly enjoy one another’s company. Clearing her throat slightly, Celestine would bid her farewells. [color=gainsboro]”I will likely make good on that offer in time Neiya. Thank you for the invitation. I believe it would be best if I returned to my realm to tend to my plans and ensure that things are integrating smoothly. If I’m not needed then I will bid you both a good day.”[/color] With that Celestine would grip her cape like a skirt and curtsey. When she finished the maneuver she would wait a few moments to see if anything more was to be said before seeing herself out. Neiya blinked, drawing her gaze away from Cadien to look back to the dutiful armoured goddess. [color=8493ca]"Oh? As industrious as Cadien, I see. You certainly know how to pick your friends, my love. Perhaps I too must plan a… what was it? Competition? Hm. Do take the almonds at least, Celestine."[/color] Celestine would give a nod at Neiya’s statement before responding with one of her own. [color=gainsboro]”I have a desire to see this finished before things progress too far upon Galbar. If I fail then I will have failed one of my chosen knights… I do not wish to see that come to pass. If you wish to join us in our plan of making tournaments then please, by all means. If we could get all of the various gods to contribute something then it could be a grand achievement indeed.”[/color] As Neiya mentioned taking the almonds, Celestine would contemplate this for a moment before looking to Cadien and asking. [color=gainsboro]”Would you mind if I did? They are quite pleasant.”[/color] Cadien ate a second evening bell. [color=violet]“By all means, go ahead,”[/color] he nodded, before consuming a third. Celestine gave another nod before scooping up the bowl of almonds with one swift motion. Bowing her head in thanks she would speak a final time before turning on her heel and heading for her realm. [color=gainsboro]”You have my thanks. I’ll see the both of you again in time. For now, farewell.”[/color] With that, Celestine departed. Cadien dismissed Dakari as well, and then turned to Neiya. He smirked. [color=violet]“So, whatever shall we do now that it’s just the two of us?”[/color] Then he recalled the presence of the Furies. [color=violet]“Or five of us, I suppose.”[/color] Neiya glanced after Celestine, and then turned to gaze at her three handmaiden furies. A moment of thought seemed to have her in perfect stillness, before she broke the silence by pushing another bell into her mouth. [color=8493ca]"You girls want to try evening bells? Don't be shy."[/color] [hr] [hider=summary] Celestine takes a moment to think back on what she’s been doing ever since she left the lifeblood. As she does this, she makes the realization that she hasn’t visited Cadien in a while and decides to take a break from putting together a Death Dragon and Virtus Elf army to go visit. Paying a visit to Cadien, Celestine notes that he had been just as busy as she had. The two take a moment to chat and end up getting into a discussion on having a tournament in the afterlife for the souls that they each accrued as part of their deal with Thaa. It’s proposed that they perhaps offer reincarnation as the reward for the ultimate victor, but Celestine figures that they’ll have to talk to Thaa himself about it since he might have a grudge against simply letting a soul go back to Galbar. This discussion is put on hold by the arrival of Neiya. After causing Celestine to break her Chivalric Code for the first time by lying by omission to cover for some of the less pleasant things Cadien said about Neiya during Celestine’s first visit Neiya joins the discussion and lets slip that she had spoken with Yamat, but assures Cadien that she’s trying to be better. As Cadien and Celestine continue to talk about tournaments Neiya asks Cadien if he had ever introduced Celestine to some of the foodstuffs from Galbar. After briefly quizzing a nearby Neiyari about their favorite food a banquet of fruits and nuts was produced, including evening bells. Celestine takes a liking to almonds for their unique shape and likes the simple and earthy flavor that they have. After some encouragement she tries a single evening bell. Upon biting down she has a brief moment where she sees herself at the head of an army of Virtus Elves and Death Dragons. Refusing to allow delusions of grandeur to overtake her, she refuses to continue eating them. The conversation winds down, and Celestine receives an open invitation from Neiya to come visit as she pleases. Celestine takes note that Neiya and Cadien seemed to be paying an increasing amount of personal attention to one another and decides that it might be a signal for her to leave unless she wanted to witness just how affectionate they were for one another. After getting permission to take the bowl of almonds with her, Celestine leaves as Cadien and Neiya enjoy the company of one another. [/hider] [hider=MP/DP summary.] No MP/DP spent. [/hider]