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[hider=Once Mortals][color=#ffdead]"Hey bitch,"[/color] said Jocasta with a smirk, [color=#ffdead]"we've got a puzzle to solve. Put down the books and stop being boring."[/color]

[color=C78A2C]“Hey cunt.”[/color] she replied upon smacking her book closed. It looked like the Air Threshers would have to wait, [color=C78A2C]“I suck at puzzles. Can I, like, make background music?”[/color] she stood up and offered her hand before the inevitable 'Hand!'

Instead, Jocasta started snapping her fingers. [color=#ffdead]"Rhythm, bruja."[/color] She bobbed her head from side to side. She glanced at Yuliya as well, almost expectantly.

A very low effort beat from the bottom of her throat came with similar bobbing of her head, except forward and back, [color=C78A2C]“Unce, unce, unce.”[/color]

[color=#ffdead]"And you, babushka?"[/color] Jocasta teased.

Yuli began humming a tune to match, proceeding to dance to the others. The puzzle had proved an ample warmup for the moves she was pulling out. She didn't even give herself a chance to be offended by Jocasta's remark, enjoying the banter a lil too much.

Then, just as they'd started getting into it, Jocasta stopped snapping. Her face went deadpan. [color=#ffdead]"Hand."[/color] she called, holding both of hers out and drawing with a mighty 'whoosh!'

[color=C78A2C]“Weee.”[/color]

Just like that they found themselves standing - or sitting - in the cellar, just in front of the statue of Lilith the Redeemed. [color=#ffdead]"Okay,"[/color] said Jocasta, [color=#ffdead]"So, what do we know so far?"[/color] She was all business now, looking to Yuliya.

What followed was a set of puzzles that challenged knowledge of colours and timing. They nearly failed it - the great minds of the future almost missed out on greatness by confusing colour combinations. Ultimately they did, and after a grand lightshow in the dark, the heavy steel door to the sub-basement opened with a poorly-oiled groan. From it emerged a woman.

Only, she was … not quite human. A blindfold covered her eyes. Great, angel-like wings sprouted from her back. [color=#4B8BDF]”Not perfect,”[/color] she judged, [color=#4B8BDF]”but good enough.”[/color] Even though they could not see her eyes, she looked them over. [color=#4B8BDF]"The last group solved it too,"[/color] she admitted, [color=#4B8BDF]"but you have to go back nearly a century to find another."[/color]

Zarina flinches at the sight of the 'Angel' that has joined them. She very carefully hops off her improvised seat and just looks up and stared impolitely, focused on the wings in particular, [color=C78A2C]“I guess, uh,”[/color] she shrugs, [color=C78A2C]“Colors are hard.”[/color] she answers with very little thought. [color=C78A2C]“Are you -”[/color]  she nudges her chin toward the general direction of the angel, [color=C78A2C]“Lilith?”[/color]

[color=#4B8BDF]"Oh, I've been called that before, yes."[/color] She nodded and smiled.

Many proddings were made by the group to figure out this one’s identity, although interest is brought to her blindfolded eyes, [color=C78A2C]“Can we see your eyes?”[/color] Zarina casually asks, and then smiles broadly like the Angel, [color=C78A2C]“How are you, by the way?”[/color]

[color=#4B8BDF]"I am rarely depicted with them shown,"[/color] she admitted, slightly awkward for a moment. "They may prove frightening, I warn you." She smiled back. [color=#4B8BDF]"Otherwise, I am quite well, though worried about some of the poor decisions I have witnessed of late."[/color] She shrugged. [color=#4B8BDF]"People do have their free will, though, and that is sacred,"[/color] she concluded. [color=#4B8BDF]"Do you still wish to look upon my eyes?"[/color]

[color=C78A2C]“I do.”[/color] answers Zarina, dropping the grin for a more deadpan look. She braces herself. Nibbler is invited into her arms to hide his innocent eyes.

[color=#4B8BDF]"Very well, brave one,"[/color] the angel-like figure said. She reached up, removed the blindfold, and wrapped it around her hand. When she opened her eyes, Kaspar, Jocasta, Yuliya, and Zarina beheld horror and wonder in equal measures. In her eyes they bore witness to everything that they had seen and everything that they would ever see. They knew their own deepest truths, their beginnings, and their endings. They were filled with the sense that these were both immutable and - paradoxically - were not. Also, they learned the figure's name, though it was Ingrid who spoke it first. The goddess nodded and smiled. [color=#4B8BDF]"That is what many call me,"[/color] she replied. [color=#4B8BDF]"Though I have known many mortal names as well."[/color]

She looked to Zarina. [color=#4B8BDF]"You met my eyes most unflinchingly,"[/color] she said in admiration, [color=#4B8BDF]"so I shall grace you with one extra piece of information. My dear sister, Ahn-Shune, is also among you, though she has sadly not been summoned to this place."[/color]

Zarina, along with her comrades, were all graced with a glorious flash of things Zarina did not have the intelligence to truly articulate. Never had she been more frightened, yet she also felt fully in control. Like everything was as it should be. [color=C78A2C]“I see.”[/color] she mumbled, [color=C78A2C]“No really, I see. Wow.”[/color] she shook her head, and then looked up at the Angel, now named Ahn-Dami. 

Her gaze, still unflinching, met the veiled eyes of the divine being once more, [color=C78A2C]“You walk as mortals, on this world.”[/color] she started, clenching with her free hand a mysterious, oddly cold coin she had been keeping on her, [color=C78A2C]“Did one of you walk among us during the trials?”[/color]

[color=#4B8BDF]"I am glad that my gift... or curse has proven useful to you,"[/color] the goddess replied. Then, her face grew serious. [color=#4B8BDF]"The one who walked among you during the trials was like us in some ways, but not of us."[/color]

Zarina furrowed her eyebrows, uncertain of what to make of it. The coin in her hand slid between her fingers, and the Goddess could undoutably tell who she was talking about with that trinket in hand, [color=C78A2C]“I see.”[/color] she mumbled, before turning her attention to Jocasta. Zazzy sighed and approached the distressed girl. Nibbler was u n l e a s h e d for emotional support on the Tethered's lap.

And then, Zarina froze. Wait. These were actual Gods. This was no fever dream.

The confidence she had shown thus far was characteristic of her, but meeting a God was … Not the norm.

Zarina fell to her knees, and bowed in prostration.

[color=C78A2C]“Forgive me.”[/color] cold sweats dripped from her forehead and hit the flooring as she prostrated herself, [color=C78A2C]“I should not have been so familiar, Great One.”[/color]

[color=#4B8BDF]"Truly spoken, peon. You have been spared eternal damnation, this day, solely on the back of your apology and appropriate groveling before my divine radiance and might."[/color] Ahn-Dami regarded them all, unamused. [color=#4B8BDF]"KNEEL!"[/color] she demanded of those present.

Then, the goddess laughed and it was a pleasant and surprisingly normal sound. [color=#4B8BDF]"I was once a person, not so different from you. So long as you are not unjust, you should not fear me. Now..."[/color] she trailed off and smiled. [color=#4B8BDF]"Your business, oh how wonderful it shall be."[/color]

Zarina's heart was racing. Oh how close they were to a fate worse than death. She was happy to have saved her friends. Hell, even saving Trypano. Deep down, in this abyss of fear and anxiety she felt happiness in this terror.

And then came the punchline. Eyes wide, mouth slightly agape, she didn't emerge from her humble position until a good moment later. This Goddess, she spoke like a person. Like a less saucy Zarina. Or maybe saucier. It was hard to tell.

Zazzy stood, red-cheeked and clearly embarrassed, [color=C78A2C]“I must admit ... A God speaking so familiarly to us mortal feels uh-”[/color] her gaze was avoidant, but she eventually fixated the wings. The oh so pretty wings, [color=C78A2C]“Very weird.”[/color]

Zeno Bucks was to be wonderful, though?! Zaz blinked and continued her turbulent train of thoughts, [color=C78A2C]“But weird in a goooood way. ZeeBee is actually gonna kick ass? Really?”[/color] she pumps her fist to hip level, [color=C78A2C]“PLEASE tell me it doesn't get bought by the Prenchies. PLEAAASE!”[/color]

Ahn-Dami grinned. [color=#4B8BDF]"Oh yes. It is a roaring success,"[/color] she assured the girl. [color=#4B8BDF]"As for the Perrench? I believe, for once, I shall withhold."[/color] She smiled only the slightest bit.

Then, the proposition of both the book of Ahn-Shune and the Lantern of Shune-Zept came to be, encouraged by Ahn-Dami.

The Lantern made contact with the book. Then, they were pushed apart. From the book sprung... another woman. She was plump, bespectacled, and properly dressed. She took a moment to beat some dust from her clothing. Then, she reached down and picked up the book, straightening to look about. She paused when her eyes took in Ahn-Dami. [color=#4B8BDF]"Ah, sister,"[/color] she acknowledged. [color=#D9DF4B]"Yes. I had been looking forward to this meeting."[/color] She cleared her throat and regarded the students. [color=#4B8BDF]"Yes, I am Ahn-Shune,"[/color] she remarked slightly awkwardly. [color=#D9DF4B]"This is my sister: Ahn-Dami."[/color] She blinked. [color=#D9DF4B]"Yes, we are your... gods, I suppose. Thank you for bringing us together. It has been some time since we both walked among mortals in tandem."[/color] She took a moment to adjust her glasses and tucked the book under one arm, knitting her hands before her. [color=#D9DF4B]"Now, I imagine you might have questions."[/color] She swallowed and smiled, regarding them all evenly enough. 

[color=#4B8BDF]"Shune, you are absurd,"[/color] chided Dami, shaking her head. [color=#4B8BDF]"Embrace me, sister."[/color]

The second goddess looked mortified. [color=#D9DF4B]"But they're..."[/color]

[color=#4B8BDF]"Yes, mortals."[/color] Dami rolled her eyes. [color=#4B8BDF]"So were we."[/color]

[color=#D9DF4B]"It's... positively unbecoming!"[/color] Shune protested.

[color=#4B8BDF]"Yes, yes. Lodge a complaint, will you."[/color] Ahn-Shune was taken from the side, whether she was prepared for it or not, and turned. [color=#4B8BDF]"Come now."[/color] It was but a small embrace: nothing melodramatic, demonstrative, or particularly embarrassing. Both turned to face the students. [color=#D9DF4B]"My apologies for the interruption,"[/color] Ahn-Shune quickly resolved, clearing her throat.

[color=#4B8BDF]"Sister,”[/color] asked Ahn-Dami, and Ahn Shune twisted. 

[color=#D9DF4B]"Yes, sister?"[/color]

[color=#4B8BDF]"Is Shune-Zept going to be making an appearance?"[/color]

Ahn-Shune waved dismissively. [color=#D9DF4B]"I suppose he'll do whatever it is that he does."[/color] She shrugged, [color=#D9DF4B]"So, who knows, really?"[/color]


First instinct: More prostration.

But the whole interaction was human. Maybe too human for someone who had grown to worship these beings on the daily. It was like meeting an idol, except way, way more. And they behaved no different than most people barring some supernatural aspects here and there. 

It felt like the mystique was disappearing. Zarina felt something deep within her, something bad. Like there may not actually be anything to turn to in a time of need. No great being watching over her in the darkest hours. They were human, or at least started off as such, and retained such humanity.

Still, she humbly bowed to the newcomer Goddess and then addressed her politely, [color=C78A2C]“How are you, Ahn-Shune?”[/color]

The goddess furrowed her brow. [color=#D9DF4B]"I am everything,"[/color] she answered frankly. [color=#D9DF4B]"Both supreme and abysmal at once."[/color] There was a tight smile. [color=#D9DF4B]"We exist across time and space, so one might imagine that this sort of question lacks a simple response."[/color] She tilted her head. [color=#D9DF4B]"How are you, Zarina Al-Nader? Of course,"[/color] she admitted, eyes narrowing keenly and a light smile resting upon her lips, [color=#D9DF4B]"I already know."[/color]

And then, all of sudden, they were falling with a massive dragon falling with them and sipping on some tea. 

It smiled widely and its smile grew impossibly large. [color=#514BDF]"What is your terminal velocity!!!???"[/color] it demanded. [color=#514BDF]"Is it the same as my terminal velocity!!!???"[/color][/hider]


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[hider=The Monster][color=#9A9B8F]Deep in the hours of Dami was when the festivities really flared with excitement and wonder. Nox Arcanum was reaching its peak with the five moons lighting the otherwise clear, black sky. Many were still feasting, others were dancing to the unending tunes played by bards from all around the world, some even did both! There were a few, however, that found time to spend this once-a-year opportunity to Ersand’Enise without any particular engagement to their duties to spend time with one, or even many, close to the heart. It was beautiful, in a way, that one had to wear an actual mask to be seen for who they actually are.

A pair of dragons had made a nest for themselves for two decades now - a ruined shack of what was once a hideout for a much older cohort. It had the best view: Slightly elevated, inside the Animal Farm (with all the animals retreated in their barns) and within the small island bordered by the mighty wall of the city and the river delta. They were at peace. The man, with his colourful Royal Froabas mask stood behind his beloved, wearing an equally colourful and draconian mask with shorter horns and a more pronounced golden colouring to the features. Their attires were equally as colourful, perhaps a little too much for any other occasion that wasn’t Nox Arcanum, with a regal air to them befitting the animals they masqueraded as.

Sweet nothings whispered to one another turned into a cold, uneasy silence as the few torches they had lit immediately extinguished themselves, sucked in by a brutish and famished force eager to syphon their own heat. It had just appeared, as if out of nowhere. The moment the female reached out to sense what was so obviously stalking them in the dark, she gasped, [color=pink]“Mi Amor!”[/color] she squeaked, clearly frightened. The male Froabas drew his sword from the gold, blue and orange patterned sheath he had resting on a still standing old table and pointed the épée right toward the barely illuminated black mass that stood just thirty metres away from them.

Both drew with the gift. Golden, draconic eyes snapped open and glared at the two less dragons.

They did not smell like a dragon. They did not display the might of a dragon. They were small game, but their drawing gave way to the natural instinct to dominate anything challenging this monster’s dominance. Multiple more of these draconic mockeries emerged to flex their power. The monster was unimpressed.

A loud, blood-curdling scream echoed through the area, easily drowned out by the vacarm of festivities, but easily heard by those unlucky enough to have wandered in the general area. And soon after, screams that were undoubtedly human followed.

By pure coincidence, a pair of knights happened to be patrolling the outer perimeter of the city's majestic walls. They were not the Lamplighters, nor the ordinary city guard. They were not travellers or the bodyguards of a wealthy merchant or nobleman. Bearing the crest of the Holy See on their velvet colored capes, these armored warriors were identifiable as the Century, one of the greatest military arms of the Quentic church. They cantered around the countryside on horseback, watching for any suspicious persons who might attempt to engage in illegal activities while the festival was underway.

This far away from the noise of the festival, it was not difficult for these trained warriors to identify the sound of people crying out for help. One of the Century, identifiable as a captain by the emblem on her pauldron, began speaking to her subordinate.

[color=E2E2CF]"Keith, do you sense that?"[/color]

[b]"Yes captain. Whatever it is, it ain't human. It's fucking strong too."[/b]

[color=E2E2CF]"You've got that right. My orders are for you to ride back to the city and bring reinforcements. I'll ride ahead and engage whatever... beast has come to feast on the partygoers."[/color]

[b]"Yes ma'am!" [/b]

The lower ranked Century sped off, leaving the Century captain to ride alone to meet the enemy... Or was she alone?

Kaspar, it seemed, did not fully understand the purpose of a masquerade mask. He wore one that was deep black metal in the shape of a wolf's face, but his attire practically screamed his name—deep reds with black and gold accents, metallic thread woven in to glint in the torchlight. 

He'd strolled away from the crowds for some time, enjoying the night air in quiet solitude. Time had already been spent at the festival, and even here the merry air seemed to carry through to this part of the city. But he was occupied in his thoughts, walking mostly on instinct. 

A scream pierced through the silence, snapping the student from his thoughts. He sighed, gentle resignation that his mind was already made up to investigate, to help—and then he was off, cloak streaming out behind him as the boy ran towards the Animal Farm. 

There were many a party going on and Ayla was going to be present. Dressed up in Flamenco style dress, adorning herself in black with multiple frills that bounced around her ankles and shins, adorned with little red and black woven butterflies. She places a red mask in the shape of a lion cub on her face as she masquerades as a Torragonese noble through the streets of Ersand’Enise, keeping an eye out for her prospective partner. 

She stroked a hand through her hair as the strands wrap around her finger as she sighed out. He was late again, wasn’t he? It was at that moment that she heard a noise, a scream, and soon there was a watchman running into the city, and someone who met Kaspar’s attire description running in that direction. [color=009fff]“Where is he running off to now?”[/color] She moved to follow where Kaspar was leading.

Desmond had just finished the biggest prank on the higher magical society. They had pulled a heist off, one that had gotten them a fortune, and then they had 'Hugo' come from the grave and scare the hell out of the party goes, taken their magic for a bit of time, made them think what they have done, and then dissappeared.

Now Desmond had moved through the masquerade, stole some things, ate some food, and left it to the Rats to have their fun. He had used his hat, and a few additional items to conceal himself to allow for a proper escape. For once the prank was over, his work was done.

Desmond left the party and shifted into an alley to once more change his appearance. Now he looked more like himself, not like the nobles he mimics, his clothing was different as it was a dark black more formal outfit. Gold accents and a black wolf mask with Gold and red accents.

He checked the time as he looked up to the moons and saw 5 were high, he had some time to kill. Desmond began making his way to his dorm as he picked up some quick things. His pistol, his ammo case, and his powder horn. All set into a small pouch and carried underneath his jacket as it was hidden away once more.

He was planning on meeting with Cal to talk about a few things, so he left to go and make a reservation at the Vermillion Swirl. Yet once he neared he felt an intense pressure. A pressence of something powerful, his head turned as he felt it come from the Animal Farm.

Desmond checked the moons once more and said, [color=gold]"Fuck"[/color]. As he began to make his way over, now using his new well of power to quickly make his way over. He quicken his travel by reducing the friction his boots would have against the ground, reversing the charge on his boots to repel against the ground, and then used Kinetic energy to propel himself forward at high speeds. Through the use of his lamplighter badge he got through the gates no problem.

Niallus stops walking, hearing that scream, partly drowned out by all the festivities. "What was that?" Looking around to see if anyone else could have heard that, it seems that the bystanders walking past didn't seem to hear it at all.

"That didn't sound good, at all. I probably should investigate." With that he starts moving through the crowd, he was supposed to help Ingrid with what she had planned. Hopefully he'll only be a bit late.

The Man in the dragon mask pulled out a wicked-looking sword and squared up to the dragon. In truth, he was afraid, but it was not in his nature to show fear, and he had faced monsters every bit as fearsome before. "I am glad to see others are brave enough to face this beast down," he said with quiet confidence, glancing over his shoulder at the students. He thrust out his chest and his chin and screamed a challenge: [color=#F7D358]"Vamos! Vamos a la victoria!"[/color]

The nun had been stalking her target for some time. Then, a greater threat appeared, menacing the school which she was to be a part of as her order's ordained representative here. She quickly made the sign of the Pentad, took five deep, calming breaths, fading into the comforting nothingness of the space between worlds: a land of outlines and echoes. Then, she rushed not away from the danger, but towards it.

A couple of bodies were left vulgarly on the ground, disfigured and very much dead, three others were at the cusp of death, and one was fighting off whatever obscured force had likely done this horrible act. Just as any onlookers could even intervene, the man with the Froabas mask was doing his best to repulse the large, dark shadow that crept towards him, protecting his masked love that had been viciously slashed on her flank. She clearly couldn’t stand and could only look helplessly at her partner’s desperate struggle.

Alone, he would not have stood a chance - not with his men caught off-guard and his beloved to protect. But the creature took immediate notice of the converging little ants. Little but with the same, rich energy the two false-dragons carried, as well as their worthless minions. The true dragon turned its head to acknowledge the perceived strongest of them: The Century. Its black tail flailed dangerously, threatening the close couple with every whip of the tip.

It took a couple of heavy steps closer, entering the light of the moons to reveal its form to the improvised reinforcements. This “dragon” was unlike anything most of them had seen, although Desmond and Ayla would immediately recognize what this thing was. A tall, 9 feet something draconic being that was easily five times the overall size of a human with exaggeratedly long arms used to balance its form that accommodated for the retracted wings. Its face resembled more a dragon than a human’s with little echoing back to its lost humanity. Its scales were entirely black and its horns were spiral shaped, much like a ram’s, rather than a traditional dragon’s straight or slightly curved. Its tongue was unusually long and its teeth filthy with blood and flesh from the unfortunate victims.

It inhaled, and then unleashed a focused and petrifying shriek whilst violently whipping the ground with its long, limber tail and stomping the earth with its forward knuckles.

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A few brace themselves, otherwise take the brunt of the primal rage that fueled the terrifying shriek. Their bodies feel weak and exposed, their limbs briefly involuntarily quivering before the monster standing before them.

A wildblood, then, the nun thought. A draconic one, but it wasn't a type that she was familiar with... Inhuman monster. She steeled herself against its screech, unafraid despite a primal instinct inside of her screaming otherwise. [color=6ecff6]"Eshiran-Zept,"[/color] she prayed out loud, [color=6ecff6]"Lord of War, fill me strength and resolve, so that I may deliver unto this foul being the comeuppance that it so righteously deserves. Fill these others so that they may know no fear, so that they may stand strong and live. If my time comes to join you in the afterlife, I will go with joy."[/color] She began to draw, then, and draw, and draw. 

The man in the dragon mask felt his nerve falter for a moment, but it was not for himself, it was for these others: children, most of them but for the century, and even she was young. He had to protect them and his beloved, first and foremost. That was what he would do.

Instead, it went for him, and he was not quite prepared, drawing away as much of its swing's momentum as he could and leaping back. It was not, however, quite enough, and the claws carved up his armour, leaving little but a graze that could've been much worse had he not defended so ably.

In Colette's case, it was not fear that shook her but the sheer NOISE of the creature bellowing at her with all its rage. The sound resonated through her sealed helmet and caused her to suffer a terrible headache, one that would take a minute to recover from. After stumbling for a moment she unclasped her helmet and threw it to the ground in frustration, revealing the face of a grown woman with platinum colored hair. A well hidden scar was just barely visible at the nape of her neck, covered by the collar of her armor and gambeson.

[color=6ecff6]"Sorry kids, give me a minute to... recover."[/color] Colette balanced herself shakily on her war hammer and held a hand out towards Sister Laska. 

[color=E2E2CF]"Hey, Rezaindian, take over the show for now."[/color] Laska felt her body grow light, as if the gravity drawing her towards the planet had become... weaker somehow.

Desmond heard the shriek and braced, as it's roar left nothing but a ringing in Desmond's ears. He slipped his arm into his jacket and pulled out his gun. Preparing for the fight, as he drew from his surroundings. Drawing in more and more energy, beyond his own natural capacity, as he drew more and more. The dragon attacked as it was quick and fast as it seemed the dragon masked man was not light enough on his feet and was attacked.

Desmond once more shifted his feet and changed the polarities on them and the friction to allow him to glide on the ground easily.

Niallus managed to resist the dragon’s roar. Then watching how fast it moved to attack the other guy here. Knowing this wouldn't be an easy fight, he draws, ready to fight.

Kaspar's eyes scanned the field, and he noticed the woman behind the sword-wielding man. She didn't seem prepared for this. Out of a feeling of protectiveness, and certainly not the still-lingering fear, he [s]scurried[/s] ran towards them, giving a nod to the man. [color=#B8041A]"I can help her,"[/color] he said, trying to keep the shaking out of his voice as he turned towards her. [color=#B8041A]"I'm a binder,"[/color] he stated, kneeling and preparing to start healing should she allow him.

From death's doorstep, the woman recovered somewhat, thanks to Kaspar's efforts. [color=pink]"Thank... you,"[/color] she panted, with a distinct Torragonese accent. She stood weakly, clutching at her side.

Ayla is getting lost in the chaos, the shouting and screaming around her. There is even two Kaspars moving around before her. This is definitely overwhelming.

The Horrifer growls and hops off the ground to ascend just a few metres high, flapping its wings as it charges up atomic energy in its abdomen and mouth, before spitting out an orb of concentrated, blue coloured energy right at Colette's direction. The impact would be big enough to catch both Ayla and Desmond. In the explosion's wake is a cloud full of blue particles and the taste of metal in the air.

Colette coughed, waving an armored hand in front of her face. [color=E2E2CF]"Gods that stinks!"[/color] She could feel her manas devouring the toxic substance like food, protecting her from whatever poison the beast had directed towards her. She spun her hammer like a centrifuge, blowing away the smoke immediately around her so that she could still see where the enemy was. 

Desmond saw the fire begin to build and Desmond dashed off to the side. However it fired much faster than normal, as he was caught by it, as he used his gift to pull in energy and launch himself. He felt the flames however consume his body as it was an intense heat yet through the use of quick kinetic shockwave around him mitigated the rest of the damage. It did however leave a deep tingling in his body before his medallion made a humming and then the tingling dissappeared.

He used chemical magic to right himself as singes covered his body.

Desmond took a stance and aimed for the face of the large draconic beast as he fired, enhancing the bullet with kinetic and magnetic energy and upon the moment of impact he violently added as much energy he could to create a large impact upon the dragon's head to either shut it up, knock it's head back, or shock it.

There is wanton destruction as people far more powerful than her are being knocked away by the monster before them. She recalls back to Zaqhoria, the magic box used to contain that monster, Heart. She fiddled around in her bag as she pulled it out, activating the Sirrahi magic dampening box. She made her way to the beloved, as Kaspar was there tending to her.

[colour=009fff]“Kaspar, take this. We will take her away from the fight. Only point it at the Monster, it should weaken its magic significantly.”[/colour] She moved to try to support her, and started to lead her away from the battle.

The dragon tilts its head as swiftly as the bullet dedicated to its head. It eyes Desmond, almost taunting him. 

Then, without any build up or telegraph, it descends in speeds almost equal to his own bullets and attempts to pin him down with its massive leg.

Desmond sees the attack come descending down, yet it was faster than he. Yet Niallus was there to assist as he threw in more kinetic energy as they both used kinetic energy to launch him.

Desmond came out of it through a roll as he drew in a quick breath and then breathed out that moment of worry as he used energy to load another bullet into his gun while he began moving again, throwing a thumbs up to Niallus.

Filled with holy fervour, Sister Laska steps forward and calls upon the cold that has always been her ally. She draws with everything that she has from a specific point, right near the beast's core. Dragons are predictable in their vulnerabilities. [color=6ecff6]"Writhe, creature of darkness! Writhe for me, and perish in hellfrost!"[/color] She unleashes her ultimate cryomantic spell: Petrification.

The scales are frozen and shatter completely, prompting a screech from the beast. The thick layer fell like glass and shattered just as easily from her tall figure. The being once known as Zarina screamed in fury, its eyes trained on the true threat: The Good Nun.

The excellent use of Laska's cryomancy had the added effect of freezing the air around her, and this included the noxious particles in the air that were beginning to poison her. She was safe from the cloud, but the beast now had a vendetta.

The beast begins to charge, seemingly as mindlessly as it did before, but as it got close to Laska, the dragon vanished!

And then she re-appeared right above Colette in an attempt to crush her.

But the beast wasn't done, just as she was done, she vanished again to Laska's left with a charged atomic blast ready to fire at point-blank range!

Colette saw the beast about to fall onto her, she wasn't ready for it to vanish and appear on tpo of her, as she was slow to the draw.

Yet she felt her body get moved as she slid to the side as she noticed the black and gold dressed and masked man with a black hat seeming to be looking her way as he ran.

She readied her stance and threw a nod to him, a silent thanks.

And it teleports! By Shune! Edyta was not used to this trick, but she was quick enough to draw with everything that she had, scythes whirling about. Thanks to those and a mana shot, she was just about able to do it, leaping back immediately after. Instinct pulled at her, demanding that she disappear into the space between planes. She resisted the impulse... for now.

The man in the Froabas mask wanted nothing more than to skewer this fool who had allowed herself to run rampant in the city as a beast. Yet, there were other priorities. These children were strong, but inexperienced. He found one, wounded, and called upon his schooling as a binder.

Desmond felt his skin heal, his flesh seemed to fix itself as he noticed the dragon mask man seemed to be looking his way. Desmond threw a thumbs to him with his free hand as he quickly flicked back to the threat at hand.

Something was wrong, it couldn't suck in energy as effectively, until it was completely null. The source of this interference was the boy near the shack.

To some's probable surprise, it was still about as fast as it was without the affliction. At fast as he could blink, Kaspar had a massive palm descend upon him.

Kaspar backed away, keeping the box aimed at the dragon to try and dampen it, trying (but failing) to put distance between them. At this range, and holding the box, he didn't feel on the right foot for an attack. But—he could help his companions out. Recalling his time in the Forked Tower, he began pulling energy from the VOID, converting it into energy the others could manage. Warm wind began to swirl around them, loose arcane and kinetic energy gripping onto the air.


The man in the mask goes after the dragon, attempting to force it back from the boy with the sirrahi device. it stood its ground, however, and he found himself utterly unable to affect it.

The dragon was closing in on Kaspar, and seemed pretty pissed. It was swinging down on him hard, and the boy could easily imagine the broken bones and punctured organs coming his way. And then, a quick attack from Niallus put it off its swing, switching its focus towards the other boy just long enough for Kaspar to get out of the way. He saw Niallus get slightly injured, and pinned that in his mind. He'd have to help his classmate out when he got the chance, as thanks for saving him.

[color=E2E2CF]"Benevolent Oraff, god of life, give me the strength to protect these innocent souls."[/color] Colette offered a prayer to her god as she spun her war hammer overhead, building up centrifugal force as she infused her weapon with the power of lightning and kinesis. Space appeared to warp around her as the air itself became disturbed by the strength and motion of her magic, borne from years of training and experience. 

[color=E2E2CF]"Taste my fury you monster!"[/color] Colette slammed her hammer into the ground, propelling herself into the air in a somersault. She disappeared out of sight as she rose into the air, the darkness of the night obscuring her, then she came down. She came down hard. Her attack was so ferocious that she could hardly aim her strike, and so it went that the Century's hammer fell towards the lower end of the dragon's spine.

Tunnel-visioned into consistently assaulting the one with the box, the dragon paid little to not mind to the threats behind it. This gave Colette the opening she needed to put an end to this mess, and her mighty hammer descended down to smite the wicked black creature. its back was SHATTERED, snapping its pelvic bones and lower spinal area. It fell flat on this abdomen, lungs drained of their air in that very instant, leaving it silent as it laid flat, knocked completely unconscious and with considerable damage to its scales, skin and muscles visible on the small of its back.

It laid there, chest still heaving and its abnormally long tongue set flat onto the ground  by its head. Its eyes remained open, although they weren't reactive to any stimuli.


Kaspar kept the box pointed at the creature despite its current unconsciousness. [color=#B8041A]"I might be able to keep it down somewhat with chemical magic. What the fuck is this?"[/color] he remarked.

Desmond takes a step forward as he sets his foot onto the neck of the dragon as he aims his gun for its head. [color=gold]"Doesn't matter. It was rampaging. It probably has the taste of the blood of people"[/color].

Kaspar approaches, looking down at the eyes. They looked concerningly familiar... But he couldn't quite place where he knew them. [color=#B8041A]"Is there... something that turns people into... pissed-off dragons?"[/color] he asked, not sure what his mind was scratching at.

Sister Laska glanced the boy's way. He was a Dark Magic user. Also, a chemical user. Now, he was defending the dragon. [color=6ecff6]"It's called wildblood,"[/color] she answered shortly, [color=6ecff6]"but I don't much care."[/color] She looked at Desmond. [color=6ecff6]"It may have been a person before, but it's a killer now, and innocent people have died by its hand. Justice cries out to be done."[/color] She stepped forward and began drawing.

[color=009fff]"There was a creature called Heart who transformed into a dragon which looks a little like this one. Desmond saw it too. We were with Zarina, Ingrid, and Jojo."[/color] She looked upon the dragon before her,  [color=009fff]"Why was it even here in the first place?"[/color]

Desmond begins to draw knowing what the sister was to do and is to help. He looked to the others talking, [color=gold]"Doesn't matter. It might just be someone like her. And they've done enough"[/color].

[color=#B8041A]"Wildblood,"[/color] Kaspar muttered, thinking. The words were familiar. He half-listened to what Ayla was saying, and then something dug in. Her name. [color=#B8041A]"Zarina,"[/color] he stated, looking up. She'd read about them in the Tower. That's where he'd seen the word. His crimson eyes snapped to the nun, and he raised his chin, stepping in between her and the wildblood. [color=#B8041A]"She's a student,"[/color] he stated, eyes daring the girl to move closer.

"I could try and drain its mana, in an attempt to keep it down the only problem I need to suck on its blood. I'm not a sanguinaire, I'm just a special case.  No promises that'll just be more pissed if it doesn't work." suggested Niallus.

Desmond stopped drawing and looked to Niallus, [color=gold]"What?"[/color].

The look that the nun shot him was truly incredulous.

"Dude, long story that involves myself and a demon fish. I'll explain another time." backpedalled Niallus.

[colour=009fff]"Are we saying this creature consciously decided to come to a party and attack people?"[/colour]. As she listened to Kaspar, she looked toward it.  [colour=009fff]"It is... Zazzy...?"[/colour] She moved over toward the dragon as she tried to look upon its face.  [colour=009fff]"Desmond, get off her! It could be Zazzy."[/colour]

Sister Laska could feel it healing. [color=6ecff6]"If you do not act, I shall,"[/color] she warned.

[color=#B8041A]"You seem to know about this,"[/color] Kaspar responded, eyes hard. [color=#B8041A]"How do you help one such afflicted?"[/color] He seemed unphased by her warning.

[colour=009fff]"Does anyone have Temporal magic? We could teleport her out of here to the Torragonese High Desert, far out of the way. Does anyone know where Jojo is? She may know what to do."[/colour]

Desmond looked to Kaspar and Ayla as he says, [color=gold]"Hold on"[/color]. As he begins to flood the dragon with chemical energy to try and keep it down while still keeping his foot where it is.

[color=gold]"This could be Zarina?"[/color]

It was then that the masked man spoke. [color=#F7D358]"This girl is known to you?"[/color] he demanded. [color=#F7D358]"Who is she and where is she from?"[/color]

Kaspar glanced to Ayla. He... was not sure whether they should answer. Glancing to Desmond, he said quietly, [color=#B8041A]"Look at the eyes."[/color] He stood still where he was, waiting to see who spoke first.

[colour=009fff]"It could be my best friend, Zarina, if what people are saying. She is usually completely harmless. It must have been during the trials when we were attacked by that monster lady in Torragonese Desert."[/colour] She stroked upon the dragon's maw as she looked into the golden eyes.  [color=009fff]"Can you help her? You will have the thanks of the Arslan family."[/color]

The man removed the golden mask covering his face. He was King Sancho of Torragon. [color=#F7D358]"I ask you once again, daughter of Arslan, where does your friend hail from? Your king bids you answer."[/color]

Sister Laska did not wish to bring more pain into the world, but it was her sworn and sacred duty to wield the wrath of Eshiran as it was meant to be wielded. She could feel the creature that had been a woman healing. She reached inside of it with binding magic and destroyed, keeping it from recovering too quickly. [color=6ecff6]"The best remedy,"[/color] she replied curtly, [color=6ecff6]"is to put her out of her unnatural state. I grieve for you, but she is as she is. She has shed innocent blood and will do so again."[/color]

Kaspar glanced back at the word "king", as if he might recognize the king of Torragon. Unsurprisingly, he didn't, but took a deep breath. Turning back to Sister Laska, he stated, [color=#B8041A]"Did she do this of her own volition? Or will you too shed innocent blood?"[/color] His words had an underlying but subtle tone of threat.

[color=6ecff6]"I suppose that will be a great comfort to the bereaved families of those she has killed, dark mage,"[/color] the nun snarled.

[color=#B8041A]"That more innocent blood was shed?"[/color] he retorted, face cold. [color=#B8041A]"You think justice is death with no trial? Execution without understanding?"[/color]

Desmond winced as his eyes flicked down onto the dragon and Ayla then to the mask dragon. He continued to fill the dragon with chemical energies, as then it was revealed, a king was in their pressence.

He mentally sighed, [i][color=gold]'Fantastic'[/color][/i], he held onto his gun still yet this was getting more tense. To shoot or not to.

What comes from any of it.

Ayla looked up and blinked, oh merde. She straightened herself before him. [colour=009fff]"She is from Virang. Half-Vigrandish and Half-Tourrare. Zarina Al-Nader. She is from a merchant family who trades in horses along the Merapora."[/colour] She turned to King Sancho,  [colour=009fff]"You are a just man who desires peace. Your speech is inspirational in how our nations should work together and be bigger than ourselves..."[/colour]

[color=E2E2CF]"Sister, stay your hand."[/color] Colette stowed her hammer and approached her war-like compatriot with open palms. [color=E2E2CF]"Revenge is not the duty we were called to. Do not forget Dami's teachings. Choice is always the cornerstone of justice. I will allow you to try this foolish boy... girl... whoever they are for their crimes, but if you kill them without allowing them to understand the weight of their crimes you will answer to ME."[/color]

She punctuated this strong statement by stealing a glance at Kaspar. [color=E2E2CF]"I'll deal with you later kid."[/color]

[color=6ecff6]"Justice is the preservation of life and flourishing!"[/color] Laska whirled on Kaspar. [color=6ecff6]"Justice is the protection of those who may not defend themselves from those who aggress upon them! Eshiran is as much a God as Ipte, you fool!"[/color] She tilted her head to the side, trying to cool herself down, and took in Colette as well. [color=6ecff6]"I understand that she is your friend, but I ask you not to be blinded by this. Her acts are undeniably heinous, and she will remain a persistent danger. If we do not put her down, people may die. Would Dami wish that?"[/color]

The dragon begins to twitch. Low and guttural clicking sounds can be heard coming from its throat.

And then its golden eye darted toward the one pointing the gun at it. The back, while not fully healed, had suddenly healed much faster than what the nun could reasonably keep up with.

[color=E2E2CF]"Be careful when you speak in absolutes, sister. The Traveler would love to have more people like you in her fold."[/color] Colette thumbed the handle of her hammer, ready to strike again if need be.

Desmond's eye flicked between each of the people and then to the dragon. He continued to flood the dragon with more energy as he thought, [color=gold][i]'Why does this have to be difficult? Why is there politics even with this?! We kill her and be done with it. If this happens all the time, a speedy trial would be the only way, and then it would be like just executing her anyway without a real trial[/i][/color]

And in that moment, Desmond saw a flicker from the dragon and a few clicks as he yelled, [color=gold]"MOVE"[/color]. Desmond jumped back using the dragon as a jumping point. 

[color=#B8041A]"And neither Eshiran nor Ipte are The Judge,"[/color] Kaspar retorted, pulling on what little he knew of the Quentic Faith. 

And then the noises started, and he glanced to Zarina, preparing for the worst.

Laska waited not a second longer. [color=6ecff6]"You fools,"[/color] she grated. She drew every ounce of energy that she could and attempted to petrify the beast's tail and legs.

[colour=009fff]"You talk about protecting innocents, yet all you talk about is murder. Zazzy would have not chosen to do this, this is not who she is. She needs help."[/colour]

When the tail begins to freeze, it violently whips toward Laska, threatened her with a strike that could easily maim her if she got any closer.

The grunts were getting louder, with the beast pressing with both its arm-wings to slowly get back up. Most of its spine had regenerated, although discomfort remained. It stood and [b]glared[/b] at the congregation of ants gathered around it. It didn't attack yet, instead coiling its wings around itself whilst breathing loudly.

Every once in a while, the gods placed supreme tests before her. Edyta breathed in and out. The beast was coming to and her efforts proved for naught. There was nothing that she could do to stop it. These well-meaning imbeciles would have their way and more innocent blood would be spilled. They were no longer innocents, in her mind. They were accomplices, having chosen a murderous 'friend' over the sacred duty of all followers of the Pentad to preserve life. She only hoped that, should she ever be faced with such a difficult decision in the future, she would choose correctly. Sister Laska looked towards Ayla and shook her head in the most bitter disappointment. She had saved this one earlier, scant thanks she'd received for it though she reminded herself that she did not seek recognition. [color=6ecff6]"I will defend you always,"[/color] she replied, [color=6ecff6]"wrong though you may be, but not with my own body this time."[/color] With that, the Rezaindian disappeared into the space between realms, ready to attack at an opportune moment.

Sancho backed off. [color=#F7D358]"Do not listen to that pompous coward,"[/color] he announced. [color=#F7D358]"She disgraces her robes. We have held this beast once, even though she surprised us. She now lacks that advantage. We shall hold her again."[/color] He began drawing.

Desmond tilted his head to both sides as he popped his neck, [color=gold]"Alright, let's go for round 2"[/color].

As Desmond takes up his gun and aims for her head and pulls the trigger. Aiming to put all the energy he had gathered into one violent shot to it to knock it's head around.

[color=E2E2CF]"Well said sir. I couldn't agree more."[/color] Colette unsheathed her hammer once more and took a fighting stance. [color=E2E2CF]"I will lay down my own life as many times as it takes to take responsibility for this mess."[/color]

The dragon has one of its horns shot, causing it to stagger slightly and the horn to crack.

Bad move.

The once passive creature now erupts in a cry of pure fury, exploding of fiery energy and repulsing all those near it.

[center][youtube]https://youtu.be/2zzYSfcWvYw[/youtube][/center]

Ayla, Desmond and Kaspar are caught off-guard and repulsed. The first two only get a few scrapes, but Kaspar ends with a piece of wood stabbed into his bicep.

Fueled with immense fury, the Dragon began to aggressively syphon energy, potentially depriving all others from drawing effectively, as her torso began to glow blue. The air got abnormally warm and with every breath taken by the beast, a gust of metallic, hot air blasted through those that weren't repulsed by the eruption of power.

Something big was coming, and some of her scales had since regenerated after being down briefly. They could attempt to stagger her by striking her reinforced abdomen, or try to knock her out in one hit like the Century had done. Or they could brace themselves for the worst.

With how temperatures are running high, she reverts to what she does best, music. Even through various shouts and screams from the beast, it was now Ayla’s time to roar. The songstress starts to sing out toward the dragon named Zarina. Her voice reaches soprano, as if the sound started to emanate from the VOID. For those present at the aberration madness may recognize it for what it is, that otherworldly vibration running through their bodies and their mind with that corrupting VOID noise.

The Dragon just STOPS. It's chest is still FULL of the energy, but it stopped drawing. No long was it poised to unleash pure death to all before it. It just stood there, not all too different from its passive state a few seconds ago, albeit without the bat self-hug. It eyed the others, cautious but unreactive.

[color=E2E2CF]"Look at it. It's not moving. So it CAN be stopped..."[/color] Colette had her hammer raised to attack, but she hesitated. Colette leaps upwards, easily clearing the massive dragon's height. She grabs ahold of its scales like a horse's reins and digs in, physically and magically. The dragon's brain is flooded with a massive wave of melatonin as the Century attempts to quell the beast's rage for good, while Ayla provides them with the opening to do so.

The Dragon stares down the Century, limited by the otherworldly frequency emitted by Ayla. The overdose of melatonin did a good job in pacifying it, and consequently making it even more sluggish than it already was. But, there it stood with an obscene amount of energy and heat emanating from its body.

Desmond pulls out his bullet pouch as he yells to Colette, [color=gold]"Hey, you should get away!"[/color].

Desmond pulled 3 bullets out each that looks like it is covered in  silvery metal. He loads 1 into his pistol and throw the other 2 directly at the dragon. As he takes aim with his gun and fires. As all 3 are his Hellfire bullets as he aims to cause a very large explosion on the Dragon.

The explosion is like a massive punch in the gut causing the beast to stumble forward, practically kneeling as its long arms spread open and clench the ground before it. It begins to vomit what looks to be molten mass onto the soil below it, igniting various flora around it without even touching the substance with how hot it was. The creature enters a brief coughing fit before eyeing the group that antagonized it so.

Desmond looks at his gun and inspects it jokingly as he says, [color=gold]"Damn! When'd you hit so hard?"[/color]

Desmond is its target. Predictably, it attacks whatever provoked it the most. And with Ayla's hypnosis running its course, the animal was back at it.

The monster ascend, and hurls not one but TWO toxic orbs that were more molten matter than energy, right at Desmond. Like before, they explode upon contact with anything, and leave a particularly noxious cloud of smoke in their wake.

Colette skids in front of the first orb and catches it with her hands. Even with magic protection, the molten matter heats her gauntlets to the point of smoking, and there is a smell of burnt leather. She can't hold it on her own.

[colour=009fff]“We can do it! We can subdue Zarina and make it to the good ending. Just make sure we do our best not to Frannemas up the situation."[/colour] Her smile fades and her eyes widen in horror as she just realised who she just made that comment in front of.

For a moment, the king merely glanced her way over his shoulder. He blinked. Then, there was a smirk and a small sound that may have been a chuckle.

Kaspar sees the orb coming for Desmond, and can see that Colette isn't going to stop it on her own. Pulling from his base school, he pulls from the orb, reducing the danger.

Desmond sees the orbs coming and shifts back, as he realized that it seems to have led him a little as he needed to stop the two with kinetic energy. As he saw multiple people come to his aid and the toxic blobs had been sent into the earth as it created clouds of intense toxic smoke.

The smoke sprang up, and Kaspar had no qualms; he'd been far more support in this fight anyway. He stepped back, avoiding an inhale as he left the smoke, the repositioning giving him a slight disadvantage on attacking.

It was a brief flicker. She thought that she saw an opening and faded in from the space between worlds. Nothing visible happened, but there was an attack. Unsatisfactory. Sister Laska would pray and train harder after this.

The monster leered at the creatures that caused it so much grief, it charged in furiously toward those that were by far the worst: Desmond and Colette. First, Colette would get mauled with her arm being bit down and nearly crushed by the dragon's powerful jaw, and essentially destroying her armor.

Upon repulsing the armored Century, it then sets it sights on the magusjaeger and rushes him down. He manages to evade the first flurry of slashes, but ends up dangerously close to getting his neck devoured by the massive maw, until …

The scales are shattered. The dragon recoils back.

After tearing herself free of the dragon's maw, Colette looked at the state of her left gauntlet and determined it would only be a liability now. She drops to her knee and pulls at the deformed plate armor, freeing her fractured arm from its burden. She gasps as a wave of pain shoots up her arm, but she chemically suppresses her agony before rushing back into the fray.

Ayla's use of sound is magnificent and it affects the dragon wildblood convincingly. Then, there's a tear in the fabric of reality.

An ominous black... mist begins to seep out.

What emerges is... an egg.

Its shell opens to reveal a second tier yolk demon.

[center][img]https://img-9gag-fun.9cache.com/photo/aL16NMz_460s.jpg[/img][/center]

Niallus looks at the weird egg demon thing. "What the fuck is that?"

Desmond turns to Ayla, [color=gold]"What's that? Did you make the dragon poop an egg?!"[/color].

Another strange being, one that irritated the beast far more than normal. It wanted to smash it to bits, but the aggression this demon provoked from the dragon pushed it to taking an extreme approach. Again.

It began to charge like it did before. Torso blue and the area heating up once more.

Kaspar glances to the egg, and hums. He glances at Ayla, feeling a moment of kinship and smiling softly. He'd not planned on summoning a demon with the church-goers around. He'd have to make sure they didn't take issue with her after this, or he'd have to make a... bigger problem to deal with.

Ayla blinked toward the creature, [colour=009fff]“Arroz con huevo!"[/colour]

The enormous amount of energy sucked in by the walking nuclear reactor  was becoming asphyxiating to even the strongest warriors among those that tried to stop the beast. But their efforts to stop it were for naught, as it wouldn't even stagger this time around. Upon reaching critical mass, it poised itself to attack with its hind legs digging into the earth and its front claws briefly rising up as it inhaled mightily.

Then it fired completely downward, as if it was vomiting a constant stream of blue, liquid-like molten energy. But this time it was immensely concentrated, and the stream progressing into what looked like flames, and then finally a blinding, near-white laz0r of pure energy and oozing of toxic xenon. By merely raising its head, the beam sliced vertically like an unending blade. She then flailed about, shaking her head uncontrollably as if the dragoness couldn't even truly control it. The destruction that followed was something to behold, and the lightshow was very much visible in Ersand'Enise. If not the light, then the wall that would be inevitably destroyed and potential casualties were going to accumulate. 

Sister Laska can see what this dragon's aim is, and people will die. She steps into the path of the blast, protecting as she'd promised. The Red Rezaindian siphons off the energy, surviving it and sparing a glance back at the idiots who allowed this to happen.

Desmond sees the laser continue after Sister Laska's defense, he siphoned energy as well and tried to force the dragon's mouth downward to slightly bring it off course away from the wall. As he slides back away from the possible continued line of attack.

Having successfully defended nearly all of the mighty dragon's attacks, the Yolk Demon did something that it had never done before in its entire short life: it cracked a smiled... just a bit of a one, and more like a smirk, naturally.

With a final, grateful little smile and a professional nod towards Niallus for a job well done, the yolk demon pulls into its shell. The egg has now attained Hard-Boiled status.

Kaspar glances around the group, noticing the egg that seemed to be preparing for... something? He concentrated, solidifying the egg's attacking... weapons? hands? with Binding magic, preparing it for a major attack.

The dragon assesses each and every adversary, and easily notices Colette's injuries. She was the biggest throne on its scaly side and needs to be dominated, and then devoured.  The once Zarina charges in, attempting to slam the Century into the ground and devour her on the spot with no restraint. It was close too, with Colette failing to react in a timely manner. It looked as though she was a goner, until Laska emerges from the shadow realm and deflected the initial strike from the beast.

It sneers at the frosty scythe wielder before swiping its tail to repulse them.

Then, it feels it. The Egg. All eyes were on the thing.

As death stared Colette in the face, Sister Laska appeared from nowhere, stepping in front of her and drawing the heat and motion of the dragon's flurry of melee attacks. [color=6ecff6]"I attack, Somnian, but I protect as well."[/color]

[center][youtube]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rDB01xGt6OA[/youtube][/center]

The Egg began to glow.

The sky around it darkened and a foul wind swirled.

Great branches of lightning arced about, flashing and zapping: legs of some immense spider.

Reality itself seemed to waver in the colossal grip of the EGG.

Then, a crack formed within the dragon's scales.

It branched and grew.

The monster's skin splintered and began to slough away.

From it emerged... a woman.

Zarina.

With that, the egg cooled and darkened.

And... darkened some more.

A pulse emanated from it and it rose into the air.

Once again, its shell - now soot black - cracked and opened.

It looked upon them beatifically, and smiled. Its yolk face was now green.

Then, it spoke: [color=black]"I leave you now, friends, for my life cycle is complete. Do not cry, for - with your help - I have achieved my one true purpose."[/color]

[color=black]"That is to be eaten."[/color]

[color=black]"I leave you, now, with this parting gift."[/color]

In the clearing by Zarina's prone form appeared three flawless black eggs.

[color=black]"Nourish thyself of my fruit and become what I hath defeated with thine assistance."[/color]

With that, the PRIMORDIAL EGG ascended into the night sky and was no more.

[color=E2E2CF]"..."[/color] Colette thought about it seriously for a moment, but raised her hand and shook her head 'no'. [color=E2E2CF]"Pass."[/color]
Ayla rushes to put her cloak around Zarina. No looking. She stared hard at Kaspar, Niallus, and even King Sancho.

Desmond had seen many things in this world. He had seen so many things. He has watched titans fall, demons sprint forth from every where, men die and undie.

And now he had seen an egg appear from the great beyond, protect them, and now it speaks to them like some great divine and leaves. And strangely, Desmond felt sad.

Sister Laska... blinked. She... did not know quite what to think. Demons had always been creatures of evil to her religiously vigorous mind. This one, however... its nobility was immense. Its compassion and bravery for the ages. She briefly considered reevaluating her entire world view. [color=6ecff6]"That was... a good egg,"[/color] she admitted solemnly.

Zarina was standing there, in the nude and waking up to a talking God-egg blessing them with eggs to eat, [color=C78A2C]“I'm still dreaming, aren't I?”[/color] she looked down, noticed the lack of clothes, [color=C78A2C]“Yeah, like one of those dreams I used to have.”[/color] she began to whistl nonchalantly whilst letting Ayla putting the cloak. She seizes an egg on the way and just kind of dance-walks about, [color=C78A2C]“Gonna wake up soon~ Doo-dee-doo~”[/color]

King Sancho, being a gentleman, averted his eyes immediately. [color=#F7D358]"I regret to inform you, young lady, that you are not, in fact, dreaming."[/color]

Desmond sighs as he looks away from the dancing Zarina as he says, [color=gold]"Zarina. This ain't a dream. I don't assume I'd be in it. You are dancing nakedly in front of multiple people"[/color].

Ayla turned toward Sister Laska, smiling warmly toward her. [colour=009fff]“You thought me a fool, but with friendship, you achieve the impossible. You should try becoming our friend too."[/colour]

[color=E2E2CF]"Before we all get carried away, I'd like a word with YOU two."[/color] Colette marched over with her war hammer perched on her shoulder and advanced towards Kaspar and Ayla, her eyes full of fire.

Zarina stopped, turned and noticed the one and only king Sancho. The one that had been in the city during the Trials. The man she had seen, [color=C78A2C]“Yep, I'm definitely dreaming.”[/color] she held the egg with some care as the dream-Ayla requested it, but her dance-walking didn't end, [color=C78A2C]“King Sancho on a field with a divine-egg, HAH! Too bad I'll forget about it when I wake up.”[/color]

Desmond walks over and uses kinetic and throws his hat onto Zarina's head as he says, [color=gold]"Think of clothing you want to wear. You aren't dreaming and you are on full display to everyone and maybe another regiment of Century soon"[/color].

As Desmond's normal form appears, his outfit nowhere near as extravagant, he was a simple man with simple clothing.

[color=C78A2C]“But this is comfy.”[/color] she dismisses Desmond, [color=C78A2C]“but thanks for the hat!”[/color] she winks before stopping her little dance so she could admire the sights. There was still fire scattered on the field and unleashing foul chemicals in the air, making for a bluish smoke, [color=C78A2C]“Pretty!”[/color]

[color=#F7D358]"Stand back!"[/color] called King Sancho, and all present could feel the draw of his magic. He placed an anti-radioactive field around some of the residue. [color=#F7D358]"This will cause serious illness if handled or even approached,"[/color] he warned.

Zarina hummed a little tune, marching over to her husk, [color=C78A2C]“Wow! Look at THAT! Looks like Heart.”[/color] she plucked one of the scales and then tilted her head as she saw the ivory, [color=C78A2C]“Oh I remember this.”[/color] nabbed, and she left her egg over the hollow hand of the dragon husk. Carefree.

Ayla approached King Sancho, giving a short curtsey toward him. [colour=009fff]“Despite the circumstances, it was good to fight along you, my King. The Queen is safe and well."[/colour]

The king nodded in return. He let out a tired bark of laughter. [color=#F7D358]"May you live in interesting times, I suppose. Now,"[/color] he concluded, [color=#F7D358]"if you'll excuse me, I'll be going to see my Queen."[/color]

In truth, he had grave misgivings about what had taken place here. This girl had been weaponized without her knowledge and pointed at him with intent. It was nothing short of an assassination attempt and, if he was not entirely certain as to who had been behind it, he most certainly had his suspects. [color=#F7D358]"When you are more... appropriately dressed,"[/color] he addressed Zarina, keeping a respectful distance, [color=#F7D358]"we need to speak. It is not my intention to punish you, but I must confirm my suspicions about who decided you would make a good weapon while in this state."[/color] He regarded her evenly. [color=#F7D358]"Do we have an understanding?"[/color]

[color=E2E2CF]"So your majesty."[/color] Colette spoke. [color=E2E2CF]"I'd like to hang up my coat and go to bed now, but since it's my job I do have one more concern. You're technically the victim of assault here, and quite a bit of damage has been done to your retinue besides. I know these kids are happy to have their friend back, but at your command I will take her to the jails."[/color]

Sancho placed an arm around her shoulder. He smiled with no little warmth and thumped the Century on the chestplate exuberantly with his free hand. [color=#F7D358]"Well fought, and bravely,"[/color]  he declared. [color=#F7D358]"My family and I would be in your debt were it not your duty. Now..."[/color] He was already leading her away from the others. Presently, he glanced back at them and lowered his voice, leaning in conspiratorially. [color=E2E2CF]"She's Virangish, is she not?"[/color]

[color=E2E2CF]"If she looks like a Virangish, and she sounds like a Virangish..."[/color] Colette shrugged.

He shot her a look. [color=#F7D358]"This is a politically sensitive matter,"[/color] he advised. [color=#F7D358]"I would ask that she be remanded to my custody for questioning. She was not an assassin, but she was used as a weapon here. I would like to get to the bottom of who used her."[/color]

[color=E2E2CF]"If it is you making the request, your majesty, then I am obligated to do everything in my power to make it happen."[/color] Colette untucked herself from Sancho's arm and bowed respectfully. [color=E2E2CF]"My men will be here to clean up very shortly. I can already sense them approaching. Shall I take her now, or later?"[/color]

[color=#F7D358]"She is no threat at present,"[/color] Sancho decided. [color=#F7D358]"Have her tactfully shadowed. I shall wish to speak with her on the morn."[/color]

Colette tapped her feet together and saluted. As her and the king parted ways, her lieutenant came riding up on horseback. The rest of the Century squad, now arrived in force, was already making headway in cleaning up the aftermath of the carnage, including the pile of bodies left behind by Zarina's rampage.

[color=E2E2CF]"Keith, you see that girl?"[/color] The captain pointed at the Virangish. [color=E2E2CF]"By orders of his honorable highness, we will be assigning one of our security details to keeping her under surveillance until further notice. See that it is done. [b]Quietly.[/b]"[/color]

[b]"Yes ma'am!"[/b]

[hr]

Meanwhile, somewhere distant but perhaps not quite so distant as imagined, two very powerful people floated perhaps a kilometer above the ground. There was scarcely a living thing in sight aside from them. The one regarded the other. [color=ffdead]"You realize that you have failed,"[/color] she said, and he did not glare at her. Rather, he simply returned her gaze. [color=ffdead]"As have you,"[/color] he reminded her. 

[color=#D0A968]"There will be other opportunities,"[/color] she allowed, but she remained on guard. 

[color=#D0A968]"And you will come to crush me once again in the name of... what is it that you stand for again, Jocasta Re?"[/color]

[color=ffdead]"I pray you stay away from Ersand'Enise,"[/color] she warned, refusing to take the bait, [color=ffdead]"and we shall have no quarrel. Make another attempt, and we shall both die here."[/color]

There was an extended pause. [color=#D0A968]"Until we meet again, then,"[/color] her adversary replied. Then, he was gone. Then, she was.[/color][/hider]

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[hider=Escorpion][color=#CCCDBF]Zarina opened her door to find two centuries waiting outside of it. [b]"Zarina Al-Nader?"[/b] one inquired. The other, larger, member of the pair stood behind him, arms crossed.

A groggy Zarina took a silent moment to evaluate who was actually addressing her. Century? Why? [color=C78A2C]“Who's asking?”[/color] she cautiously answered, her hand clenching the doorknob. The more she thought about it, the clearer the reality of it all was. It was still a blur - a dream that she hoped stayed pure fantasy. But deep down she knew. 

[b]"On order of his majesty, King Sancho VII, you are requested to accompany us for questioning regarding the incidents of the previous night of Taldes the thirty-seventh."[/b] They gave no further information or indication. They merely waited expectantly.

Zarina's heart sank. It was real and not just a figment of her imagination. She stood there, silent and wide-eyed. She likely came off as a tad dim with her reaction, [color=C78A2C]“Okay, uhm. Let me get dressed.”[/color] if allowed, she'd close the door and take five minutes to put something presentable and worthy of a King, forgetting that she had went fully au naturel in front of him, [color=C78A2C]“Ready.”[/color]

One among them, the woman, stepped inside, allowing Zarina only a degree of privacy, while the other waited outside the door. With minimal speech, they led her outside and towards a waiting windowless carriage.

The small trip outside was a blur to Zarina as he mind raced to recall what exactly happened. How could it all be real? A giant egg being? Her shedding from her dragon form? Anxiety was getting to her, with her stomach sinking down. It felt like having to face the music for an unfinished assignment, but cranked up to eleven. The Virangish wildblood stepped in with clear hesitation and took a seat within the relatively small space.

The centuries seated themselves to either side of her. In front was Sienna Afraval. [color=FF69B4]"I wish you had confided in me, Zarina,"[/color] she sighed, reaching into a bag as she sat. She shook her head. [color=FF69B4]"We will be going outside of the city,"[/color] the Zeno advised. [color=FF69B4]"There, you will meet and speak with someone. Everything about that meeting is to remain strictly confidential."[/color] She was very much unlike the generous and jovial mentor that the girl had previously known, but perhaps the Torragonese sensed some of this. [color=FF69B4]"I advise you to be honest,"[/color] she relented. [color=FF69B4]"The person with whom you will speak knows that you were but a weapon, innocent in thought if not entirely in deed. Speak truthfully, and I do not expect that this will be an unpleasant meeting."[/color]

Then, she withdrew what she had found in the bag. It was a black cloth. [color=FF69B4]"You will blindfold yourself before we arrive, however."[/color] She shook her head. [color=FF69B4]"I can do no more on your behalf."[/color]

It was her Zeno, Sienna Afraval, that awaited Zarina. It was quite convenient if one thought about it - a student of a member of the Royal family in the middle of it all. Upon acknowledging her teacher, Zaz kept her head down and merely nodded to every effort made to reassure and prepare the youth for the coming interrogation. It was Zarina's cue to think of a strategy, and while honesty was the first thing in mind, she did in fact have an accomplice. Sort of. And there lied the true problem.

The held the cloth in her hand, brushing her thumbs over the fabric as she looked down at it, [color=C78A2C]“I understand.”[/color] she said, [color=C78A2C]“Will you really keep this to yourself, Zeno Afraval?”[/color] her head remained lowered but her eyes peered up, [color=C78A2C]“What I am. Would that actually be wise?”[/color]

[color=FF69B4]"Full disclosure, Zarina: others have been told,"[/color] she admitted, [color=FF69B4]"but no more than those who've had to be."[/color] She seemed to soften further. [color=FF69B4]"I've gotten to know you well enough over these past few months that I can see what sort of person you are. You care so much about animals, and now you suffer an unintended consequence. It is a burden you should not have to bear, and I fear it will make matters complicated for you. It is not unmanageable, however."[/color]

The carriage was moving, now: clattering down the city's flagstone roads and pausing from time to time. [color=FF69B4]"You know,"[/color] Sienna remarked, after a little while had passed, [color=FF69B4]"I will admit to some curiosity as to precisely how you came in contact with..."[/color] she trailed off. [color=FF69B4]"Such a large dragon"[/color] remained unsaid. [color=FF69B4]"I will reiterate that you should've spoken with me, though. I wouldn't have been unsympathetic, and we could have prevented this."[/color] She closed her bag and dabbed at the sweat beading on her forehead with a kerchief, for it was a hot and muggy morning as Shune gave way to Oraff. [color=FF69B4]"You and whoever else has been helping you keep your secret,"[/color] the Zeno concluded, [color=FF69B4]"this is a dangerous game you play, and people will die because of it."[/color] It was as if she knew her charge's behaviours all too well. [color=FF69B4]"It will only be worse when - not if - there is nobody to stop this in the future and it all falls down on your heads. You were fortunate that there was a capable Century and a Red Rezaindian nearby."[/color] She sniffed and went to glance out the window from habit, but there were only narrow slats for light, and little to nothing was visible through them.

Then, after a particularly long pause, there was a change in the motion of the carriage: the rumble of rough gravel and a less-paved road. It was clear that they were outside of the city now, and headed elsewhere.

Those who've had to be. It may as well be everyone that mattered, from the Zenith to the Doge. Zarina sighed out of her nostrils and resumed her empty stare at the wooden flooring of the vehicle. Thoughts of her animals came to mind when Sienna made her remark on the teen's love of animals. What would become of her little ones if she were to disappear? A thought she had multiple times, but the reality of it was staring her right at the face now. It was terrifying.

Then the irony of it all hit her as her teacher pondered the notion as well. It caused a titter to escape the Virangish, [color=C78A2C]“I'm sorry.”[/color] she whispered in shame, [color=C78A2C]“I saw what happened to those suspected of being something dangerous-”[/color] she pursed her lips and eventually straightened her back, brushing her palm over her knees, [color=C78A2C]“like Sanguinaires. I figured nothing good would come from telling others.”[/color] she explained, [color=C78A2C]“But I guess nothing good came of the contrary.”[/color] 

[color=C78A2C]“What's going to happen to me after this?”[/color] she asked as they got further and further away from the city, [color=C78A2C]“Should I live through today.”[/color] spoken with what was almost courage, but she couldn't stifle a light stammer from that 'live'.

[i]Those who've had to be.[/i] It may as well be everyone that mattered, from the Zenith to the Doge. Zarina sighed out of her nostrils and resumed her empty stare at the wooden flooring of the vehicle. Thoughts of her animals came to mind when Sienna made her remark on the teen's love of animals. What would become of her little ones if she were to disappear? A thought she had multiple times, but the reality of it was staring her right at the face now. It was terrifying. 

Then the irony of it all hit her as her teacher pondered the notion as well. It caused a titter to escape the Virangish, [color=C78A2C]“I'm sorry.”[/color] she whispered in shame, [color=C78A2C]“I saw what happened to those suspected of being something dangerous-”[/color] she pursed her lips and eventually straightened her back, brushing her palm over her knees, [color=C78A2C]“like Sanguinaires. I figured nothing good would come from telling others.”[/color] she explained, [color=C78A2C]“But I guess nothing good came of the contrary.”[/color] 

[color=C78A2C]“What's going to happen to me after this?”[/color] she asked as they got further and further away from the city, [color=C78A2C]“Should I live through today.”[/color] spoken with what was almost courage, but she couldn't stifle a light stammer from that 'live'.

[color=FF69B4]"It is all about telling the right people, chiquita."[/color] She shook her head. [color=FF69B4]"The church isn't generally too big of a fan of people who endanger others, and I think your Rezaindian assumed you were a rogue wildblood. You had some good friends who convinced her not to put you down then and there."[/color] 

They turned, then, and the light coming in through the slats dimmed somewhat. [color=FF69B4]"After this, you'll be treated as a special case by the school, like my good friend Luna - that's Zeno Moonlight to you - was, and a file will be opened on you. I expect you may have to pay some extra fee - not too onerous - and those in charge will be made aware, of course, but you're likely to receive instruction. You'll have to sign off on a confidentiality agreement - I would strongly not recommend going back on it - and they'll come up with a management plan. The goal is to give you some control back and, failing that, pacify you when there are five moons in the sky."[/color]

Then, the wagon began to slow, and Sienna Afraval handed Zarina the blindfold. [color=FF69B4]"It will only be for a few moments,"[/color] she assured the youth, [color=FF69B4]"barring something unexpected."[/color]

Ayla and maybe even Kaspar were likely the ones to save Zarina. She was indeed lucky for a variety of reasons, although it begged the question as to why the one friend she trusted with this conundrum did not intervene, or even let it happen in the first place. A growing anger started in boil and her natural inclination to resent prompted her to grit her teeth. And yet, she would not betray her friend. But she would want an explanation.

They had arrived and Afraval presented with what Zarina would have to expect going forward. The mention of of Luna at least gave someone for the teen to refer to if the process became difficult. Still, despite how Sienna tried to sell the future of Zarina in the school, she did not exactly feel reassured. They hunted Sanguinaires, and it seemed very little separated them from Wildbloods when it came to the danger they posed.

[color=C78A2C]“All my things go to my sister and Ayla if I don't come back, okay? And Marci keeps the business. And the dragons.”[/color] she confides her improvised will to her Zeno right before she tied the blindfold around her head, [color=C78A2C]“Ready.”[/color]

Sienna leaned in. [color=FF69B4]"I understand,"[/color] was all that she said. Then, she took Zarina by the arm and led her carefully down the steps. The ground under her feet was unpaved until she found herself on a path. There were two steps and then a door opened. For a moment, she felt Sienna Afraval's grip tighten on her arm and there may have been an intake of breath. Then, she let go. [color=FF69B4]"Remember what we spoke about on the way,"[/color] she advised. The door closed and Zarina was in a room of some sort. She could sense fire: tamed, and the chemical reactions that always came along with wine. Finally, a voice. It was deep, rich, and accented with the pleasant tones of Torragon. [color=#F7D358]"You can remove the mask, dragon,"[/color] it offered. When she did, she found that she was speaking to none other than King Sancho himself.

Before her was the King of a nation she was supposed to hate in spite of her own origins. And if most were honest with themselves, were the origins of quite a few of her own neighbors. The piece of cloth was tied around her wrist, [color=C78A2C]“Your Grace.”[/color] she spoke with a reserved voice as she gently bowed like any proper lady would. She didn't add anything more and merely stood there, nervous but with a straight face and half-lidded eyes.

[color=#F7D358]"That was a good chunk you took out of my wife last night,"[/color] the king offered, standing casually and walking over to a table. He poured some sort of drink from a pitcher into a pair of mugs. [color=#F7D358]"Luckily, she's a tough girl. Here,"[/color] he decided, [color=#F7D358]"sit, drink. We need to talk."[/color]

Zarina kept any comment to herself. She was put on the spot with the remarks - things she did not recall and sounded atrocious. She did take the offered seat and simply peered down at the drink before taking a careless sip. The light in her eyes wavered as she peeked up at the King of Torragon, [color=C78A2C]“I'm sorry, about the Queen.”[/color] she muttered, [color=C78A2C]“How many did I hurt?”[/color] she asked with a firmer voice and her gaze rising to meet the regal host's.

[color=#F7D358]"You killed five of my men. Another is... favoured by Reshta now, one might say. Your friends insist that you are a good person. One of them is Ayla Arslan, and I hold that name in high regard. Her father is a loyal ally. I do not believe that you would have done this on purpose so, as long as you speak truthfully, I shall hold you blameless."[/color]

Whatever embers of light that flickered in her eyes were extinguished. She slowly lowered his eyes and seemingly shut down. Zarina was still here, but everything felt so numb, like once again this was just some very bad dream. This was why she never slept properly. [color=C78A2C]“What do-”[/color] she needed to support her forehead with her palm as she seemed to lose her balance, [color=C78A2C]“What do you want to know?”[/color]

Sancho raised the cup to his lips, but then paused. [color=#F7D358]"I am angry,"[/color] he admitted, setting it down. [color=#F7D358]"Those were good men. I knew many of them. You were the bullet, however, and a politically convenient one. I want to know who was the gun that fired you."[/color] Then, he drank. Then, he waited.

[color=C78A2C]“I don't know.”[/color] she answered without hesitation, [color=C78A2C]“I don't remember anything.”[/color] her nails dug into her scalp.

Sancho rose once more. [color=#F7D358]"Pull yourself together,"[/color] he said. [color=#F7D358]"It is not fair, but you have become a weapon. You now play on a bigger stage. That is the reality. Rise instead of faltering."[/color] He placed a hand upon her shoulder and gave it a gentle squeeze. [color=#F7D358]"Drink,"[/color] he said, doing the same. [color=#F7D358]"The cider is good. Your journey has been long. I need your help. We will find a way to make it so."[/color]

Drink she did, all of it. Zarina tensed up as her shoulder was squeezed, prompting a loud inhale. [color=C78A2C]“I never remember when it happens.”[/color] she stated, holding the cup with both her hands, [color=C78A2C]“Even at four moons, a lot of it is a blur. Like ...”[/color] she swallowed more of the accumulating guilt, [color=C78A2C]“A dream you start to forget as soon as you wake up.”[/color]

Sancho nodded understandingly. [color=#F7D358]"I have head as much from others so afflicted,"[/color] he admitted. [color=#F7D358]"Nonetheless, you were clearly not in Ersand'Enise before you appeared right by me. Let us retrace your steps,"[/color] he prodded, [color=#F7D358]"where had you been previously?"[/color]

[color=C78A2C]“Vossoriya.”[/color] she stated with no hesitation, [color=C78A2C]“Same place each time for five moons.”[/color]

[color=#F7D358]"That is a start!"[/color] he crowed. [color=#F7D358]"Perhaps we can pry it from your memory yet! Retrace your steps!"[/color] Sancho nodded encouragingly. [color=#F7D358]"Now, how did you come to be there, for surely it could not have been easy?"[/color]

An uncharacteristic pause. A sign something was going on in her head, [color=C78A2C]“... I can warp space.”[/color] she said, but felt almost compelled to say more despite her instinct not to, [color=C78A2C]“Others ... Can to, in the school.”[/color] she froze, imagining a potential scenario, [color=C78A2C]“I don't know if I could use it as ... That.”[/color] she sucked in her lips. Perhaps she warped there on her own?

[color=#F7D358]"Who else, then?"[/color] he asked, excited now. [color=#F7D358]"You are blameless in thought. I know this. Your friends likely are as well, but they may remember more than you presently can. Who else uses Temporal Magic that you know? They might be the key!"[/color]

Zarina was not the brightest, but she knew these tactics. Ways to get one's associated ratted out. It was the usual, and King Sancho's charisma did little to convince her otherwise. 

But it didn't matter, [color=C78A2C]“I- ...”[/color]

[color=C78A2C]“I have a friend ...”[/color] she clenched her jaw, tightened her grip on the mug and let the words pour out her mouth, [color=C78A2C]“Jocasta. She helps me with this.”[/color] her eyes were nearly bloodshot, clearly she was not enjoying this.

Sancho smiled supportively. [color=#F7D358]"Thank you. That is my next breadcrumb. I can tell you did not want to speak, but you overcame your hesitancy. It is... another kind of bravery. I will find the person or persons who tried to make a tool of you, to kill me and mine, who sent five good men to Eshiran and looked to set Torragon against Virang."[/color] He voice rose righteously towards the end. [color=#F7D358]"For now, perhaps you would like some food? Perhaps you do not feel that you can eat..."[/color] He shook his head. [color=#F7D358]"but the show must go on."[/color]

[color=C78A2C]“Bravery ...”[/color] Zarina relented on her grasp of the mug and spoke her mind, [color=C78A2C]“I ratted out a friend.”[/color] she looked up at her interrogator, [color=C78A2C]“What did you do?”[/color]

His eyes narrowed. [color=#F7D358]"What I had to, and I make no apologies."[/color] Sancho sipped. [color=#F7D358]"Since you're curious, it was idiot's apple. Your friend is known to me. In fact, she and I have already spoken and now you've corroborated her story."[/color] He set the cup down on the table, empty. [color=#F7D358]"I have no interest in whatever you're up to. I even respect your loyalty and your genuine remorse, for what it's worth."[/color] He paused. [color=#F7D358]"Enough not to destroy you, and enough not to lie to you."[/color] The king regarded her evenly. [color=#F7D358]"I do not believe in making this world a worse place with my actions. I trust I have made the right decision with you."[/color] He was unmoving. [color=#F7D358]"Have I?"[/color]

The notion of being drugged did not sit well with her, even if it ended up pushing her toward the 'right' choice. Or maybe he was lying to calm her down, and nothing was corroborated. In any case, an uneasy gaze met Sancho's, [color=C78A2C]“She did not do this,”[/color] Zarina stated bitterly, as if she was still resisting something, [color=C78A2C]“I'm sure of it.”[/color] she sighed in relief and took a moment to breathe.

[color=C78A2C]“You did what you had to do.”[/color] he admitted despite her frustration.

Sancho was impassive. [color=#F7D358]"I know she didn't,"[/color] he admitted. [color=#F7D358]"Augusto Frannemas did."[/color] He clasped his hands at the small of his back. [color=#F7D358]"Don't you wonder why your all-powerful friend didn't show up to help pacify you?"[/color]

Zarina flinched, [color=C78A2C]“Why?”[/color] it made sense, everything Sancho said, but the why eluded this oblivious drugged up Virangish, [color=C78A2C]“Why would he do this? To me. To Jo ...”[/color] she narrowed her gaze to the King, [color=C78A2C]“... Why us?”[/color]

[color=#F7D358]"To [i]me[/i],"[/color] he corrected. [color=#F7D358]"I'm the target. You are... collateral to him."[/color] He sighed. [color=#F7D358]"And for that, you have my apologies."[/color] He smiled sadly and rested his forearm on the hilt of his sword. [color=#F7D358]"Think about where you're from. Think about how convenient this is. To the Frannemas, everyone else is but a tool."[/color]

Zarina shook her head, [color=C78A2C]“Why not just kill you himself?”[/color] she growled, not toward the King in particular but at the unfortunate circumstances. It was all unfair. [color=C78A2C]“You've seen right through that shit.”[/color] she clenched the mug again, nearly snapping it without the use of the gift, [color=C78A2C]“... It feels sloppy.”[/color]

[color=#F7D358]"Because he would have no chance against me,"[/color] Sancho replied with a smile. [color=#F7D358]"I dealt with his father. I can deal with him, and the little coward knows it. Still..."[/color] the king allowed. [color=#F7D358]"I think there is more, and I'd like to find out. Will you help me?"[/color]

[color=C78A2C]“If he did this.”[/color] the teeth gritting was getting very audible and unpleasant, [color=C78A2C]“I'm going to kill him.”[/color] no smile was shot back to the King but a solemn look was given instead, [color=C78A2C]“I'll help you handle this. For your men. For your wife.”[/color]

[color=#F7D358]"Well met,"[/color] Sancho agreed. He held out her hand. [color=#F7D358]"Now, what say we eat?"[/color]

Zarina wasn't hungry, [color=C78A2C]“Yes, lets.”[/color] she managed to muster up the willpower to politely lie. It was easy to forget it was a King standing before her, just as it was easy to forget she had spoken to what she believed to be Gods with great familiarity. She knew better now. [color=C78A2C]“We should let Zeno Afraval in.”[/color] she muttered with a gentler voice.

[color=#F7D358]"Yes,"[/color] Sancho agreed. [color=#F7D358]"I suppose we should."[/color]

Before Sancho could invite his cousin, Zarina seized the initiative with a second question, [color=C78A2C]“What were their names?”[/color]

Zarina learns from Sancho that they were named Juan-Carlos Bazan, Antonio Rojas-Herrera, Heriberto Ramirez-Gonzalez, Cristobal Garcia-Sanchez, and Arantxa Ugalde.[/color][/hider]