Monica, Benea, and the Paladins of the Calla Lily Goddess
The exhaustion that was plaguing Benea as she guided humanity through the wilds of the node was apparent. To her left walked Jermane, eager to never leave his Lady’s side and to her right was the caring Monica. Xavior himself took a pragmatic position and whether it was out of care for Benea or not, he decided to run ahead and brave the storms to stabilize the node on his own — if not to spare the Goddess, then to spare her flock.
Still for now, the column of life headed by the Benea trudged through the wilds of Node 12 and in fact had redirected to go in the direction of Node 11 — the idea being that likely a good portion of the human population would split off from Benea once Xavior found success (unwilling to brave further wilds) while the rest would continue the journey north to Node 11 with the sister goddesses.
Even without such a decree, a sizable number of mortals had already agreed among themselves to stay with Benea, most notably the group that had formed around Jermane’s leadership. Said group numbered about eleven if including Jermane and have adopted a protective stance towards Benea. But for now they walked behind save for Jermane, Benea being uncharacteristically quiet.
Monica merely observed her sister and their surroundings, repeatedly becoming lost in her thoughts upon what she saw, with a tranquil expression on her face. She seemed ever hesitant to approach the humans, remaining rather reticent during all conversations between Benea, Jermane, and the other mortals, as well as averting her gaze whenever she found herself being looked at. Once again, she attempted to offer her assistance.
“Sister, you can rely upon me to help you. Perhaps we should share the burden of protecting the people…” She said, interrupting the lingering quiet between them.
“Dear sister…” Benea’s voice wasn’t as lively as it usually was. “I’m perfectly fine, perhaps-” A gulp of air. “Perhaps my finest.” Under her breath, Benea whispered. “Oh dear me.”
“Hmm… I am having difficulty discerning your state, as you seem to be struggling to speak. I… just want to be of use, a little. I would like to contribute, since you asked me to come with you. Do you believe I cannot help you?” Monica continued with a hint of curiosity in her tone, peering at Benea, leaning closer to her as if she could perceive some crucial detail from coming nearer.
All at once the world paused. A lingering buzz held in the air — or perhaps that was the ring of ears no longer hearing the blasts of lightning and the crack of stone. Benea blinked sluggishly and Monica could feel her sister’s power slowly fade… but danger didn’t come of it. All at once the world blossomed and a lush green pasture erupted under foot. The dangerous crags and blasts of stone and electricity were replaced with gentle meadow slopes, babbling brooks, and the call of field critters.
A small smile appeared on Benea’s face as she closed her eyes. Without a word to Monica, the Calla Lily Goddess buckled and fell forward limp. Jermane’s arms reached out and caught her falling form before helping her to rest on her knees.
“Dearest Xavior…” Benea muttered in a breath.
Monica watched over her sister for a moment, but then let her inquisitive nature draw her attention elsewhere, she turned and studied her new surroundings with wonder shining in her eyes. She strode forth a few steps, and examined the grass and flowers that had grown so swiftly all around, and the scent of nature washed over her, sweet and serene. Monica thought to herself that she would be happy to spend an eternity in this blissful realm, looking at the local flora, but she knew that there was still so much more waiting out there…
“It is a beautiful world.” Monica happily remarked, returning to her sister, content with what she had seen. The winged goddess could see mountains and forests far away at what she assumed were the edges of the lands under the protection of the claimed node.
“Monica, darling,” Benea spoke from her reclined spot, her energy returning slowly. “Perhaps it would be good for you to exercise your divine will as we cross into Node 11. I’d happily do it in your stead, of course, but I think the lesson would only benefit you — what do you think? Of course you would agree, I wager.”
“I think that allowing me to aid you would be beneficial to all. I will gladly navigate the path ahead and protect our people from harm.” Monica gently proclaimed, her conviction conveyed through the compassionate smile she wore, as she kneeled beside Benea. She contemplated for a moment before speaking again.
“So should we hurry, sister, or can we rest and enjoy the beauty all around us for a time?” Monica inquired, becoming more meek after asking her question.
With dizziness in her eyes, Benea grinned. “For your sake, we can rest here and enjoy the meadows.”
Monica nodded, before stepping back and falling backwards. Instead of landing upon the verdant blanket of grass beneath her, she became enveloped in a swirl of ethereal feathers flying all around her, then she suddenly soared into the sky above with the wind guiding her ascent. It was immediately evident that the pale goddess was not tired in the slightest, and was taking full advantage of the offered respite by flying across the vast plains and seeing all that she could.
Her wings were carried along by the breeze, the wind uplifting her higher and higher, farther and faster than the birds below her, and she felt free in the open sky where Sylphrena granted her the gift of commanding the powerful gales, so it was effortless soaring wherever she wished in that moment. She briefly considered flying to Xavior to thank him for his brave actions, but she did not desire for Benea to feel left alone either. Monica appeased herself with the fact that they all would meet again soon, and continued her liberating journey across the endless azure realm, until she decided it was time to return to her sister and the humans, gracefully alighting among them with a demure smile.
-0-
“I can see I taught you well!” Benea clasped her hands together about her waist while Jermane nodded along with her words enthusiastically. The words themselves were directed at Monica, the goddess now using her own divine will to protect the humans as they pushed into the untamed land of Node 11. It had only been a few days since they entered the wilds, giving them about one day to reach their destination, but already Benea had been multitudes more cheery and talkative since delegating the protection duties to Monica.
Monica endeavored to listen to her sister as she spoke, but being preoccupied with the concentration of power being used to summon an aura of peace in the lands of chaos combined with concern for all of those that she sought to protect had caused her to have some struggles in listening to what was being said. It had occurred to her that it would certainly have been more efficient to have traveled ahead and claim the node before escorting the humans through the currently hazardous realm, but she refrained from suggesting such because she enjoyed being near Benea, even in this rather strenuating situation.
“You are as wise as you are beautiful, my sister.” Monica murmured, idly pondering whether she said the correct words or not, because she was uncertain whether she heard Benea properly with the tumultuous storm raging just beyond her barrier. She hoped she was audible enough to be heard as well.
“Oh do go on,” Benea teased, but left a long enough pause at the end to put how much of a joke her demand really was. Flickering her eyes from Monica, Benea squinted. “We are only a day’s march from the node it seems, my dear. Perhaps I should take over while you make way to the node?”
“My lady!” Jermane’s voice suddenly roared and in a moment he was standing between Benea and something that had snuck up on the procession. Whatever it was, it wasn’t normal. It was a large lump of shadows and earth, twisted and ever shifting. Uncannily it would phase to the left and to the right as if reality couldn’t decide where to place it. Worse still, it was opening a great disgusting maw.
All at once, tendrils shot from the mouth of the strange beast, but in the same moment, the ten who guarded Benea leapt into action. Karlene, the warrior of Benea, dressed in furs and fury was the first to tackle one of the tendrils. Her dark hair fell over her face as she struggled with the mighty limb, her own arms swelling and flexing with strength.
Another tendril snapped past her and towards Benea, but Jermane punched out with a boulder’s fist and with a crack, he sent the strange appendage curling back. Benea’s face twisted with worry. “Monica, dear, I think perhaps you should really make your exit then.”
Another tendril shot out, but a mist of sharp rocks quickly pinned it to the ground — another of Benea’s paladins smirking at his kill, only for his eyes to widen when the tendril swelled, sending the rocks right back. Karlene could be heard screaming as her own bout suddenly turned against her, and Jermane couldn’t punch fast enough as the tendrils came snapping to and fro.
“Stay safe, sister.” Monica said, passing the mantle of protection upon Benea before she stepped out of its shelter and into the storm. Fortunately sustaining a much smaller shield around herself alleviated the burden immensely, and her vigor returned to her. Calling upon the power of Sylphrena, she flew into the maddening sight of a world wracked with destruction and disorder.
In her mind, she recalled the layout of the land that she had seen imprinted upon the first node, ascertaining the exact location and distance to her destination - She could reach there swiftly. It irked her to know that even though she flew as fast as sound traveled, it would take her even a brief period of time to reach the node and bring peace to this region for she could not ever endure returning only to find that she was not fast enough. A myriad of strange sights flew by her in a sluggish blur, things that appealed only to the insane and violent, as the earth erupted with rage beneath her, disgorging filth and vile substances that churned and contorted around her as the sky shattered into broken pieces filled with blazing scars in between the fragments and a blightful miasma.
It was difficult to navigate because she could not see ahead of her, but easier to traverse as Monica had become engulfed in a vehement whirlwind which allowed her to rush through the pandemonium via a mixture of brute strength and agility, careful to avoid the terrifying forces ripping apart reality and spewing forth ruinous sludge that would reduce existence to ashes blown away in the frenzy. She could not afford to waste any time when those she cared about were in danger, fear filled her hammering heart and her vision became stained with blossoming tears, so she blindly burst through another fissure in the heavens and pierced a massive monstrous shifting stone that emerged from nothingness to obscure her path.
Beyond the baleful boulder’s broken remains awaited the node, and Monica desperately surged forward to touch it as the chaos encircled her threatening to end her journey prematurely… She could not slow herself, so she smashed into the short unbreakable structure of power hastily imbuing it with her divinity, and closed her eyes as she felt the agony of her arms fracture upon impact, before traveling beyond the node itself another great distance, tumbling and rolling in over and over again - the haunting sound of her wings being bent and torn were accompanied by her screaming as her body was battered against the unforgiving earth, before she sank into the shadows of silence, and could feel nothing at all.
She was not awake to witness the world all around her change suddenly as her influence and intentions seeped into the node and instilled it with direction and purpose, the powers of creation rewriting reality in accordance to the will of the one that touched it. As she had been blind, so too shall the world be blind as light was banished and replaced with an omnipresent sea of shadows, undulating and undermining all sight with its frightful presence.
The unseen simulacrums of remaining earth and sundered sky could not be illuminated yet and in the absence of the sunshine, it was cruelly cold. Though she had reached her objective, Monica had only succeeded at creating a second nightmarish realm, where darkness dwells and humanity would drown.
Benea continues to guide a group of humanity through the unclaimed lands of Node 12 towards the unclaimed lands of Node 11. Xavior brings relief to their company when he captures Node 12 and banishes the chaos around them. Monica gets the chance to fly as well. More days pass, and Monica has taken the duty of protecting the humans while they march to claim the distant node, but their group is attacked, and Benea tells Monica to fly to the node to get rid of the monster and bring peace to the land. Monica soars through the dangers ahead and reaches the node where she claims it and creates a new land consumed by darkness.
Umbrium: The lands around Node 11 are bathed in eternal darkness as the light has vanished, and there seem no means of illuminating anything around. This is due to the symbiotic relationship of the ecology and the nature of the biome; all of the unseen creatures in Maelite are adapted to survive the presence of an element that will be called Umbrium, which 100% completely absorbs light rendering the entire region always black. Umbrium is spread throughout the ground, the air, and the systems of all local creatures which is what causes the inability to illuminate the land, however it is harmful to creatures that rely upon sunlight and have no protection from the cold. The presence of Umbrium commonly causes creatures not adjusted to its traits to lose their sanity.
The Shape of the Land: Maelite is a region to difficult to navigate not just because of its ability to hinder sight, but also because of its geography with a massive unseen mountain range that stretches from the north edge to the south edge with a few gaps in between, and reaches many kilometers high into the "sky" or where the sky should be. The highest peaks in the central section of these mountains connect with a collection of massive arches that follow the same path as the mountains below as well as crisscrossing, effectively creating an immense ebon hemisphere over Maelite that acts as a barrier preventing most from entering or leaving the realm except through gaps between the arcs. The western and eastern are similar in design consisting of many diversely shaped rivers, lakes, gorges, basins, and treacherous ravines. One would want to bring a great deal of rope when walking across this realm, or risk jumping blindly into the unknown.
The Life of the Land: There are no organic plants in Maelite aside from one important exception, though there are many crystalline flora that imitate such, primarily made of diamond. Most creatures in Maelite consist of forms similar to insects and bugs of varying shape and size, from as small as Monica's hand, to twice her her size. These creatures are commonly hostile, treating each other and outsiders as threats, and attacking indiscriminately. Though there is plenty of water, there are no fish that inhabit it, instead the sole form of plant life, an algae that produces light dwells in the water, though this species has yet to spread across Maelite and provide paths for people to follow. All of the local creatures in Maelite have adapted to consumed Umbrium, which provides them with sustenance. The Umbrium Cycle will be further explained in a later post.
Monica’s Might: 1 + 1 (Quiz) She expends 2 Might to grant both Benea and Xavior permission to use the power of the Node. Monica’s remaining Might: 0. Benea: starting with 1 might, ending with 1 might
I'm busy with moving things to my new house, so I won't be able to do much writing today. I just want to confirm who is posting next? Saoirse is leading her troops down the mountain, using the forest as cover. Her force is only relying on range attacks, not directly engaging the Emperor - however there is a visible collection of armored forces down the mountain in a clearing. We've a newcomer, so, how do we want to introduce Bradwurth?
From the clefts and crevices of the mountain, and from the thickets of dense foliage, voices cried out as arrows flew forth from their cover and soared towards the emperor and his entourage. Wind tossed aside the projectiles, what few reached their targets simply deflected off of their armor. "For freedom!" The voices called out once more, followed by another volley of useless arrows in a vain effort to harm their foes.
Saoirse was among her small company of soldiers and simple folk that had volunteered to defend their home from the invaders in hope of abating the vicious storm that had killed so many now. However, now faced with the terror that was the demonic fiend whom possessed the voice that shook the mountain... Courage was sundered, and many fled. The princess and a couple of knights close by shouted orders to stay steady and firm, while organizing a retreat into a the woods, descending the mountain's escarpment along safe paths.
Her strategy was not yet ruined, so she prayed that the gods graced her with fortune, with victory, for she would need divine aid to defeat this enemy. What remaining number of the soldiers and village militia that yet to retreat continued their ranged assault for another brief period of time, before they began their descent down the mountain as well, and Saoirse watched from afar to see how the forces of the dark emperor would react.
"Come and find us, you monsters." She muttered to herself as she moved.
Vale stretched and shifted where she lay, shedding oily shadows off herself like a serpent removing sections of old skin, until she had finally finished, and arose. Standing, she stared down at the silhouette of her slumbering self that still lingered on the floor, as though she were a scorched stain upon the earth that could not be cleansed. She had considered the world to be blemished and smudged, but would the world consider such to be the same truth for herself - that she was spoiled and rotten, or would it blithely attribute herself as just another aspect of itself?
Her introspection was interrupted by an unfamiliar song that came from the aperture at the back of the cave, more audible with the absence of the heavy rain outside, yet different from the deeper voices she had heard before. She slowly strode with silent steps towards the opening, twice as wide as she was tall, and then she peered over the edge into the abyss below. There was light, more luminous crystals and glowing fungi almost hidden behind spires of stone protruding from the uneven walls of the shaft - the way the spires were arranged and overlapping each other reminded Vale of something she had seen in a dream long ago.
She could not discern the depths due to the obstruction of the spires, but the song still felt distant, and there was a feeling of hollowness that seeped into her upon staring for too long. This tunnel felt like it led into the heart of the earth itself, and that frightened Vale, for she was uncertain whether she could face the core of one of the four elements that had tortured her so. She stepped back, and searched for Zima.
She found her sitting at the mouth of the cave, staring at the sunlit plains with blank eyes. She did not stir at her approach, so Vale quietly moved to kneel beside her. “I’m sorry… for being weak.” She whispered, hesitant prior to speaking, but she spoke aloud the agonizing thoughts that haunted her when she recalled Zima’s words from before. She sensed a forlorn acceptance of a terrible fate, as though their journey would lead nowhere, and all was hopeless for both of them. “I promise I’ll become stronger…”
Zima glanced at her, then turned to face her. "Never be sorry, Vale and never promise anything unless you know you can keep it." She rose, standing above her. "Look to results as the paramount of achievement and gain. You have become one with the dark and you hardly even know it."
Vale briefly contemplated the nature of darkness and light, studying the way illumination poured forth into the cave from outside, until it was slowly swallowed by shadows in a graceful dance wherein the two connect and clash… but what was between both sides? Nothingness, or an enigma that enticed this engagement in order to attain something else unknown. Regardless, Vale had sided with one and opposed the other, seeking an end to the violence that enveloped the world. “Become one with the dark…” She repeated as she stood as well, and turned her gaze back to the tunnel leading deep into the earth where far away voices sang to her.
She could no longer hesitate, and so she approached the opening and descended into the depths, leaping onto the large spires, like steps along a stairwell, and began unleashing her dark fire upon all that shone around her. The shaft was wider, more spacious, the farther down she went, and both crystals and mycelia all were bathed in the black flames of her coming, the exercising of her accursed powers. Even the tunnel itself was burned and blasted apart; an entire stone spire crumbled away because of its close proximity to her, yet the singing persisted.
Once again, Vale became exhausted after expending so much of her strength, the flames within her dwindling into a precarious state, and so she simmered down and sought a moment of respite upon one of the spires that she had left intact. The chthonic choir had become louder, and more clear, and Vale could recognize words warped with sorrow. Hundreds of eerily pitched voices singing a dirge for the fallen, for the stolen souls, for the coming of doom. Vale silently prayed she was swift enough to bring them salvation; to free them from the turmoil of being alive.
She breathed heavily, but continued to exert herself as she called forth tenebrous flames that were accompanied by shifting symbols which manifested upon her exposed skin. She was stronger, and she would show it with the results of her hardships and labors. There was no means to ascertain how much time had passed, and she was lost in a haze of extraneous purpose and liberation, but she sensed that she was coming close to the source of the song. She engulfed a huge swathe of light in a sea of shadows that burst from her body and spread out in all directions; crystals, stone, and any living creature was consumed, and Vale fell - Only a circle of pure light far beneath her offering any illumination.
She remembered snow, for the ashes of those that she saved fell all around her were so similar to snow, drifting lazily in front of her until she fell beyond the precipice of the tunnel into an immense cavern, and Vale was blinded by the sight of what stretched out below and beyond her: Shimmering towers shaped from a myriad of gemstones and glittering metals, like a wealthy world of woven with riches that existed beneath the surface of the world above. There were thousands upon thousands of strange diversely sculpted creatures resembling those that she had seen throughout her journey and in her vague memories, and they all danced and sang their haunting song of death.
Vale fell upon a massive mound of sapphire that seemed to stir upon being struck by an unexpected visitor, animating itself and shoving her aside where she rolled into a gathering of the prancing creatures of earth, for they were all carved from that element, composed of rock and metal and crystal. There were those with many limbs, and those with very few. There were those that were very large, and those that were smaller than Vale herself. They came in many colors, depending upon what mineral they had been born from, it seemed. More concerning was that a lot of them changed their shape to vaguely imitate her.
Those near her held up stones as if offering them to her, while the rest sang and marched past them towards elsewhere. Vale looked back and forth, still adjusting her eyes to how bright and colorful everything was in this underground realm where gold and silver splashed like water, and an abundance of jewels piled up like radiant hills around roads of platinum and ebony. The cold air quivered with the touch of magic, and she sensed streams of a prevalent force suffusing the environment, and somehow there was a touch of familiarity to it all. Confusion and bewilderment led Vale to simply accepting the rocks that were given to her by the living sculptures. Then she watched as they resumed unbothered by her presence, a few even rudely brushing past her, but she said and did nothing, more intent on finding a way to return to the cave entrance.
The ceiling of the cavern was higher than she could jump, and the nearest walls were too far from where the tunnel could be reached - there was no easy way of retreating back the way she came. Vale pondered her predicament, idly noticing that more and more animated statues had come by and bestowed her with various sized rocks. It occurred to her that she could build a tower to reach the tunnel above, but such a task would take an incredible amount of time considering the scale of the cavern, and her limited ability to construct things compared to her much greater ability of shattering things…
She couldn’t come up with an alternative though, so she swiftly began the process of building, placing stone atop stone until she had amassed a large pile. Fortunately the other inhabitants were generous enough to provide her with materials as they paraded past her project, placing down rocks for her to make use of. She didn’t know whether she should be grateful or not, guilt gnawing at her because she chose to focus on helping herself instead of freeing them from the prison of life. They were helping her though, so she would not forget. She would come back and burn everything.
Progress helped her as well, reaching higher and higher, coming closer to the height she needed to be, as her arms were both sore and tired after her descent in the first place. She didn’t want to waste time recovering when it would take so long for her just to make it back up, but it was becoming more evident that a rest would be required. She peered over the edge of her hastily erected tower down towards the masses below, and felt rage when she saw empty-handed creatures stealing from her pile. “Hey, that was given to me!” She called out, hoping to scare away the thieves.
From atop her tower, she must have seemed barely threatening, for her shouts were ignored, or perhaps unheard in the cacophony of the chant that had continued throughout her stay in the vast cavern. She summoned her burning shadows once more, and hurled motes of black flames down upon those that took from her. The results were immediate, and they fled, letting Vale relax as her tower became safe. She needed it to remain safe, she thought to herself, as her knees felt weak and she fell sideways. Her dark powers wouldn’t heed her, and her own strength was drained. Sleep was forced upon her.
Vale awoke with a sense of weightlessness, as she was falling again. Her eyes opened and her arms flailed wildly as she rushed to comprehend exactly what was happening. The noises of stone grinding and tumbling against each other rumbled in her ears as the weight of the world pulled her from her collapsing tower, and threw her down to the ground among those irksome beings that still continued their musical march through the cavern. She climbed to her feet, and looked all around, catching the perpetrators that still held the stolen foundations of her tower in their thieving hands. “Give it back!” She cried, reaching out with hand and spewing tiny embers. She gasped and felt her whole body seize up, before fatigue overwhelmed her and she was slipping into an unwanted slumber again.
Unlike the four elements, the darkness was quiet and gentle, and she dreamed peacefully. Her nightmares had lost their edges, and no longer cut into her inner flames - instead she rested upon them as though they were slabs or sheets for her to lay upon. She refused to see the contents of those nightmares, obscuring them with mists, but she could faintly hear others calling out to her; voices similar to her own, beckoning her to listen to them.
—
Vale awoke again, carried on upon a slab by the larger among the living statues, bringing her through an unfamiliar tunnel illuminated by more mushrooms and magical veins of ore. The current song they sang had changed as well, more deeper like the voices she had heard when she and Zima first came into the cave. Vale looked around, anxiety growing within her, and she saw that the procession was heading towards the end of the tunnel, leading into what seemed to be another large cavern where a myriad of voices gathered together to lament. Seeking to calm herself, she simply breathed in and relaxed her tired body… She had to hope that these weird creatures brought her outside, rather than deeper into the depths.
They entered the vast cavern beyond wherein Vale was met with similar sights of an abundance of metals and gemstones growing all around while the earthen creatures performed a haunting dance and cried their mournful melody as those among them that were burdened with a myriad of stones brought their cargo to its intended destination. The creatures were creating a cairn for one of their own; an immense one that Vale had initially mistaken for another massive mound occupying the center of the cavern. She recognized limbs, a torso, even the head, but she felt something more than just the ability to identify the shape of this colossus. It seemed familiar to her…
They were still far away from the corpse, which Vale saw was producing liquid metal that poured forth from a multitude of lacerations, like blood leaking from a wounded beast, and so she let herself become lost in her thoughts. Something stirred within her, and she felt the desire to participate in this ceremony, that it would be wise to honor the dead in this way for whatever reason. Perhaps after the ritual was complete, she could convince the locals to assist with returning back to the surface.
Though she was tired, she stood and joined in the crowd, performing a dance that none of the creatures nearby possessed the agility for, and sang aloud the words she heard the creatures chant. As her limbs came alive with sacred shifts and gestures, expressing the emotions that could not be conveyed in mere conversation, the swirling runes and patterns that had appeared before manifested on her skin again, imbuing her with that newfound strength. She instilled new meaning into their music born from grief and despair, as she clapped her hands and cut the fabric of reality with her motions, creating thunderous booms and pitched roars that seemed to burn the air she breathed.
Stifle all your doubt Let your lust cry out I will help you swallow your hesitation So trust me…
Cause you yearn with greed Though your heart may bleed Will we fade away from this world With no hope to hold onto?
She recalled that she had heard the music and voices from the mouth of the cave, so could Zima hear it as well? Vale’s mind mused idly while her somatic shape became otherworldly and ethereal. She had danced and sang the entire way towards the unfinished cairn, a long journey for the languid laborers that lifted her slab, and she hoped Zima didn’t feel lonely throughout all this time. Vale felt a brief feeling of chagrin, as she also hoped that Zima felt a little lonely, and had wanted to reunite with her as much as Vale wanted to be back with her.
If I can go on and not lose my way I will sacrifice all my heart and let it fray to pieces What I really need is a spell to cast To stand up against all the pain And fear that will always last…
When they had finally reached where the corpse lay, Vale’s contributions to the music had altered the atmosphere; instead of gloom and repressed yearning, she had evoked their rage and lust. The earthen creatures became more animated, lively with livid desires to defy their demise, for she would bring them salvation. She would grant their wishes and become their hope by freeing them from their sorrow.
The funeral continued, Vale leading the various awakened statues and sculptures like a conductor guiding an orchestra, as they piled more and more stone upon the fallen until after an unknown amount of time had passed, and they were finally finished their endeavor. The mountain of man, molded from the earth itself had been buried, and Vale felt relief wash over her as she brought the performance to an end. With her back to the completed project, she faced the hundreds of thousands that had accompanied her, hindering her, letting her help them, and eventually reminding her of her fondness for expressing herself. She bowed before them, and imagined the clamor of their cheers and praise.
A dark shadow descended from above, blanketing a vast multitude of the creatures in a suffocating haze that obscured all vision. It grew deathly quiet as the fog drifted through countless earthen shoots. Suffused across metal veins and gem eyes, it silently rumbled. Then two crimson eyes walked forth from the front, hands outstretched to greet her wayward companion as her cloak drifted along the afterimages of her very being. Zima had arrived, no doubt having heard her song. Her left hand fell to her side and like a crescendo rising, her right arm lifted high. With it the cloud followed, leaving behind motionless husks plucked of all animation. A sudden snap of her silent fingers and the rolling death exploded across the cave. Like a mighty wave that bid all farewell.
Her hand fell and Zima walked forth towards Vale. “You have done well by having them all gathered. I believe our plans for salvation have changed, in a far more favorable direction.” She came to a stop before her, and moved the strands of hair away from Vale’s cheek and behind her ear. “You are growing stronger. A most welcome sight.”
Vale found herself momentarily speechless, rejuvenated by Zima’s presence and commendation, and slowly smiled. “I… want to please. I’ve realized that the source of my strength is more than our connection. I’m just grateful I’ve had so much time with you.” She murmured, and suddenly surged forward to embrace Zima, ignoring the way her body shook with paradoxical pleasure and revulsion - the shadow within her soothed, but the primordial elements still clinging to life within her rejecting the contact with her companion.
Her companion did not at first reciprocate the embrace but after a time she gave Vale the same, if not an empty, hold. Zima shivered before pulling her free. "Tell me in your own words, what have you found here and how might it be useful to us?"
“This cavern has… it’s become a tomb. The creatures here carried stones to bury their fallen maker… He is familiar to me, in my memories. I can faintly recall his face and his voice, but I don’t remember his name. He may have been a friend or foe, but it doesn’t matter. He’s free now. Um, there are many powers here… I think that could help us.” Vale answered, stepping back and letting her eyes explore the enormous expanse of this chthonic realm - almost another world beneath the surface.
The deep earth possessed power, it seemed, however Vale didn’t fully understand its exact nature. The shimmering shiny rocks and glittering metals were all imbued with an energy akin to the black and white flames that burned within her, but something else hidden, something unseen and resilient which prevented her from reaching out with both mind and spirit in order to tap into such a source of energy - an enigma. “It’s being protected by some secret shield too powerful for me to pass. I’m not strong enough.” Vale stated with shame, turning her abashed gaze back to Zima. Perhaps it had been foolish of her; delving into the heart of the earth wherein its primordial powers were at its strongest.
Zima walked behind her, finger in her cheek as she did. Her taller companion came to a stop behind her and placed her hand on her shoulder. She leaned in and began to whisper, "We must harness what we can. Our goals must reach completion and these… Stones and statues could become useful Servants for our cause. We must find this shield and wrestle control."
Before Vale could speak, a booming baritone voice echoed throughout the cavern, coming from everywhere all at once and rumbling the ground beneath their feet. “I would know why trespassers have come here, disruptive and darkened like the endless chasm… Name yourselves and reveal your purpose!” The voice commanded.
With her power mostly renewed, Vale prepared to summon her shadowy flames, but did not immediately act. She waited for Zima instead, hoping her companion could either persuade this voice to serve them, or direct to where she could properly face their potential foe. All around them, the earth became agitated, shifting and convulsing as more creatures of crystal and stone emerged and encircled the colossal cairn, though they had yet to approach and attack. Vale wasn’t too concerned about their presence considering their lack of speed.
Zima stood taller, her shadow around them deepened as the last vestiges of her dark wave dissipated. She walked forth and looked all around. "I am Zima," her cold voice rang out, "And this is Vale. I would speak further with one I can look at, so I ask you to reveal yourself. We shall do you no harm."
The horde of animated statues parted, a long line forming leading from a tunnel at the edge of the cavern to the base of the cairn where Vale and Zima stood. Emerging from the tunnel was a large winged figure sculpted from stone and silver, adorned with a crown that shone with a pale blue aura, and wielding a golden greataxe in one hand. “I am Garle, the king of Erudaine, and son of Voligan. You intrude into my realm, and desecrate my father’s grave with your tainted presence. Your bloody eyes of tarnished ruby betray your baleful intentions, blackened servants of the accursed witch! However, I am merciful, and may let you live if you speak truthfully.”
A blue rippling circle was conjured near Vale and Zima, a similar circle manifesting beside Garle, and he stepped through, the giant gargoyle appearing before them in an instant. He stood before them, towering more than thrice their height, and hunched over. His stony wings were unfurled and made him seem more imposing, but he bent his extended and muscular neck down to look at them at their level, scowling at both of them. His face resembled the fallen Voligan, his proud features twisted with anger and skepticism.
Zima stood tall in the face of such adversity, cloak flowing freely in an unseen breeze. She tilted her head, looking up at the great stone statue with indifference. ““My sincerest apologies for the loss of your father. We knew not the place we walked.” She began, “And we meant no disrespect, I assure you. Just as our intentions have always been thus; Freeing life from its prison and to find a home where we might avoid persecution as we continue our grand work. I know not of this witch you speak, but we serve no one but ourselves.”
“Life will never be freed so long as the Red Devil imposes her will upon the world. Indeed, we are all prisoners, denied our purpose and inheritance. You seek a home, but from where did the two of you come? Who is it that would persecute you?” Garle asked, slowly shifting from a suspicious frustration to mildly irked and inquisitive. His obsidian eyes gleamed in the otherworldly light of the cavern, and his gaze drifted back and forth between Zima and Vale, awaiting an answer.
“Far from this land, across the plains and seas.” Zima said, “Who is the question.” She glanced at Vale. “They will look like her, yet with fiery manes and devilish intent. I saved Vale from their lies and malice so long ago. She thinks as I do now and is my companion.” Zima’s eyes widened and she looked back to Garle. “This is your Red Devil, is it not? She who is Honor, a witch queen of her crimson keep. Homura. What has she done to make you hate her so?”
“Hmm… She came here and betrayed my father; speaking nonsense while her hands were still stained with the divine blood of her kin. When my father rightfully refused to partake in her madness, her so-called rebellion, she attacked him… and killed him. She stole then that which belonged to his children, and fled - the would-be usurper then called out, she would return. I am of the earth, and yet hatred burns within me like a wild inferno, like a raging storm! I will bring the red devil to justice, and she will suffer for her sins! I swore an oath then and there, that she will know my retribution…” Garle proclaimed, returning to his full height and turning to stare at his entombed father.
Vale felt frightened, though Garle only intimidated her a little, instead it was the blossoming pain in her mind upon hearing his words, as well as Zima’s words; these words which were tangential to her past, and Vale didn’t know whether she wanted to remember after listening to what the two had said. She realized she pitied Garle, and she thought he’d be happy to accept her offer of reuniting him with his father after the completion of his quest.
“We may not see eye to eye on most happenstance, but this I know for certain,” Zima spoke, pacing, “We are aligned in this, for she is our enemy as well. I know not the means to slay a God but if your father can be felled so cruelly, then there must be a way to stop this devil. We would help you prepare for their arrival. Make no mistake, they will come for us and you.” Her eyes narrowed, “Or, you may say to us, leave and we shall.” She came to a stop before him again. “We would be strong allies but this is for you to decide.”
“The enemy of my enemy could be considered an ally, hmm… an interesting tactic, but it requires that I believe you are not a friend of the devil; a foe that speaks lies and seeks to betray me, like the witch when she assassinated my father. It is too soon to say that we are aligned, but I am aware of your strength, and together we could defeat those that threaten us. For now, I will forgive your disruption of my father’s funeral, and provide you with shelter and protection, as guests of the king, know that you are safe when I offer you my hospitality. No harm shall come to either of you in my domain.” Garle replied, a myriad of emotions and sentiment in his voice, switching between amusement and rumination, until he stood imperiously and made his declaration.
The immense cavern shook once more, as the horde of animated statues dispersed, either submerging into the stone, or wandering into one of the many tunnels that led away. The entire process was swift, every creature moving in unison with clear purpose, and afterwards only Zima, Vale, and Garle remained. The gargoyle gestured towards a tunnel in the distance and spoke in a harsh yet more gentler manner. “Go on ahead, I will join you after I say a few final words to my father. If you wish to combine our might, wait by that passage and we will speak further. Otherwise, continue following the tunnel, and it will lead you back to the surface.”
Though Vale still did not know where she and Zima had been traveling to all this time, she wondered whether it was her companion’s intention that they should find one such as Garle who would fight beside them against the tyranny of those that had twisted and sundered life itself. She glanced towards the one that brought peace of mind and body, the one that had saved her spirit from chaos, and she felt herself attempting to smile. Though the gargoyle still frightened her with his fierce and looming presence, she wanted to appear brave beside her family.
"Come along Vale." Zima whispered to her before grabbing her sleeve and guiding her away. "Let us let the good king mourn." She followed up, a little louder. She said nothing else as they continued on, well and far from Garle. When Zima saw the passage she slowed down and turned her head to Vale. "You will speak nothing of what we have done or how we free life from its prison, understood? This is a most unique opportunity and one we must not let slip between our fingers."
“We will free him when we defeat the evil goddess though, right? He should be reunited with his father and free from this torment.” Vale answered, indicating their surroundings, but also the all-encompassing cage that was the world itself. “Mm… I will not talk about our quest then.” She added quickly in order to avoid disappointing Zima.
She nodded. "When the time comes but for now we must tread carefully. Our true enemies will wear your face. Do you understand?" Zima asked, "They will look like you, talk like you, say they love you, of all the memories you shared- but it is all a lie. They would corrupt you with their crimson flame and you would be lost to me, Vale. You must never listen to them, free them immediately from their stony flesh. And remember I am the only one who cares for you. Okay?" Zima put a hand to her cheek, and Vale let herself lean into her companion’s touch.
“I won’t ever listen to them, I promise. You were there beside me when I was all alone… I know you care for me. We’re together now.”
Vale awakens and hears another song coming from the depths of the cave. She speaks with Zima, and promises to become stronger - so she begins further training with her power and descends into the darkness of the deep earth.
She falls into an immense cavern filled with great riches instilled with magic, and a great many creatures made from shifting stone and metal. However, she fell from such a great height that she cannot jump back to where she was before.
She begins building a tower, but the structure is sundered and she loses consciousness surrounded by the creatures of earth. She awakens being carried by the creatures, and is brought into another cavern where she sees there is a colossal stone man being entombed in the riches of the earth.
She performs a dance, lost in the song of grief and despair, but she subverts the melody and considers attempting to gain command of the army of creatures, or else waiting for Zima to come and find her.
Zima comes and finds her, but quickly they are greeted by a booming voice and find themselves in an encounter with the local king, Garle the Gargoyle. They converse, learning that Homura the red devil came and killed Voligan, so his son seeks justice. Zima persuades the Garle to grant them hospitality, and there is the possibility that they will combine forces to defeat Homura and her champions.
-3 Vigor to create Earth Elementals. These creatures created by Voligan are spirits that inhabit stone, metal, and crystals - animating them into shapes and forms resembling living beings. They lack a greater intelligence, but can understand basic commands given to them by either Voligan, Garle, or one with the ability to communicate with the earth. They are primarily crafters and artisans, acting as laborers and masons for their maker, otherwise they act childish without any ambition or grand designs into their simple minds, though they are capable of imitating the way of other creatures through adopting their antics and appearance. Depending on the material they are inhabiting, they will possess differing characteristics and behavior; a stone spirit is more likely to become large and move slowly, while a metal spirit will screech loudly and act energetic, etc.
-2 Vigor to create the Gargoyle. Born in the labyrinth and assigned the task of defending its resources from those that would use such to wreak havoc on the world above, the Gargoyle named Garle is a towering, earthen creature with great strength and durability. He has large stony wings which grant him flight, and the ability to communicate with the earth, allowing him to navigate the labyrinth with ease. Because of the magical minerals used to create his body, Garle possesses innate knowledge of magic, and access to the arcane arts through the usage of aforementioned minerals.
-1 Vigor to make Garle a Champion.
-4 to enhance the Peculiar Crown. This artifact has been further imbued with power, granting its wearer immense strength and resilience, and increased protection against fear, despair, and domination, so that they are even resistant to the influence of the Divine. The crown now also exudes an aura so that all those close to its wearer benefit from its effect as well, to a lesser degree, however the crown tasks its wearer with ensuring that all those that benefit from its protection must protect the helpless and innocent whenever they can.
-5 to create the Golden Greataxe. The sacred weapon now wielded by Garle the Gargoyle, forged by Voligan shortly before his death and given to his son so that he could protect the Galbar from those that usher its ruin. The Golden Greataxe is a mighty weapon, capable of cutting through all obstruction with ease, it is nigh unbreakable, and potent enough to harm even the Divine. It has two unique properties; the ability to return to its wielder whenever thrown or tossed, so long as the wielder holds a piece of it that remains behind, and the ability to create copies of itself that soar in the air to protect its wielder and harm those that attack within range. Lastly, it allows the wielder to shape and change the earth with their will, akin to the powers of the one wielding the Earth Aspect, but to a lesser degree.
-3 to create the Holy Order; The Warforged/Battle-Born. Created by Voligan, with its sole member currently consisting of his son, Garle the Gargoyle, this Holy Order is dedicated to eradicating the wicked through whatever means are necessary. They stand against those that would inflict suffering upon the helpless and the innocent, acting as a bastion of justice. The primary powers of its member(s) is their Relentless Endurance & Retribution: the more damage they sustain to their bodies, the stronger they become, transforming into an incredibly mighty foes when on the verge of death.
"I shall accompany you." Monica answered, peering at Benea with inquisitive eyes and a soft smile, gracefully gliding closer until she was a step away from her sister. Her wings granted her flight, but required assistance for her to actually ascend and soar through the skies. Because of her hindered flight, she briefly closed her eyes and called forth her might, conjuring that which would uplift her - manifesting as an ornate bracelet connected via a chain to a ring around her middle finger on her right hand, currently hidden behind the long sleeves of her modest garment. The magical jewelry was floral themed; decorated with pearlescent pale gems and glittering diamonds arranged to resemble leaves and flowers, and afterward Monica allowed herself to attune to its power, alleviating her of a few more of her concerns, at least. She chose to name her creation, Sylphrena.
"If you will... accept my presence." She hesitantly added upon opening her eyes and staring at Benea, still smiling, as even though the callous disregard for their fallen forebear had left a sickened feeling in her chest, Monica continued to exude an impassive and polite aura in an attempt to avoid violence and mockery, regardless of however much she wanted to be free from this sinful simmering situation sooner rather than later. With her small creation in possession, she could command the winds all around her, and enjoy a newfound liberation with her sister and whoever came with them that hadn't partaken in the desecration of the dead god. She silently prayed that these profane acts would not be an ill omen of what was to come... for otherwise the encroaching calamity will never be averted, and the cycle of conflict would only repeat itself.
Monica expresses her desire to go with Benea, and creates an artifact she chooses to name Sylphrena. She remains cordial and demure, and prays for no ill fortune regarding the fate of the Crucible.
Monica's current Might: 5
4 Might expended to create Sylphrena. Sylphrena is a artifact that allows Monica to command the wind and conjure powerful gales around her. She has reduced range for further control and precision of the winds within a close proximity to her (30-meter radius originating from self).
"Ah, I am unworthy... I am afraid I lack the necessary characteristics of one whom commands; I am not wise, nor am I charismatic. I cannot fully articulate the nature of my hopes and dreams... I just want to help everyone find love and joy. Please accept my apology, as it was not my intention to disappoint any of you." She had said to Tael and the unnamed deity that suggested she take the mantle of leadership, after recovering from the surprise of such an idea, and averting her gaze in shame and sorrow.
Confusion clashed with remorse in Monica's mind as she pondered the words of her self-proclaimed sister, uncertain whether they truly shared a sibling bond, and slightly concerned that she may have potentially missed hearing the name of this ethereal goddess so close to her, so she spoke softly. "Beloved? Sister? Do you speak truly? We are a family?" She asked and looked at the one that held onto her, hoping that this world wouldn't betray her, that the happiness in her heart would stay with her.
However Xavior's mention of the mortals nearby made Monica mortified upon the realization that they would also be responsible for those that were innocent and incapable of standing against the tides of chaos that raged across the rest of the world without the aid of the Divine. She hid her humiliation behind a calm visage, and gestured to the number of humans that gathered in this verdant land. "We should each choose specific nodes to stabilize, as well as protect these mortals that are like children." Monica reaffirmed, and raised her hand in agreement with the horned god. Her other hand hesitantly sought out her sister's - should her affection be reciprocated, she knew she wouldn't let go.
Overwhelmed breifly, Monica mentions her inaptitude for being a leader, and says sorry to Tael and Dzallitsunya before trying to understand her relationship with Benea, as the other goddess makes Monica's heart flutter. Though Monica may not be a leader, she finds her resolve and adds her support to his suggestion, raising her hand.
I'm assuming our dark emperor is directing that something that will prevent Saoirse's mission from succeeding, not that there was much of a chance for success anyway lol.
She found that she had no strength to stand against the whirlwinds and the mighty waves, the earthquakes and the cold darkness, all of that which surrounded her as they refused to spare her mercy in their maddening dance. She was repeatedly hurled and battered against the myriad of wild elements, crashing and crushed by all that encompassed her, she who was so small while she remained adrift. It seemed as though everything externally and internally fought to eradicate her from existence, now that she could feel her body once again - when she was so close to claiming shelter from the storm.
She could not speak, or reach out. She was hollow, and the world was empty.
Loneliness.
Nobody heard her plight, she was uncertain whether there were even others out there that existed. In truth, she was never certain of anything, having witnessed the futility of a factory wherein thousands upon thousands of small beings attempted to assemble her from both the light and shadows… but she was forever fractured, incapable of mere motion lest she shatter again. Why would anyone create something so frail and without purpose? The answer eluded her, and another question rippled across the sea of her consciousness; did she regret being created?
She could not see, or spread out. Reality felt sealed away, but something somewhere was calling out to her. Another voice. It compelled her onward, guiding her through music, and with a tremendous and renewed effort, she struggled to open her eyes:
Though her vision blurred, she could discern that there were long and thin green blades that languidly swayed, a great many of them, encircling where she was. Above them was the endless light, and below them was the endless darkness. Did that mean she was properly aligned then? It was a pity pain followed her wherever she went, and her brittle body ached all over. It became so strenuous just to shift herself slightly, but she was becoming stronger. It was joy and sorrow, wonder and dread, excitement and reluctance that led her to sing.
“Nn, ah… uh.” She cried out, barely a hoarse whisper, but she wanted to believe that she sang with the otherworldly music that called out to her.
A shadow fell over her and soon a voice followed. “You are at last awake.” The shadow crouched down, two crimson eyes stared at her from beneath a dark hood. A hand caressed her cheek. “I was worried, you’ve been asleep for so long. The seed has grown and we may leave this place. Can you stand?”
Upon seeing another and hearing her speak words that seemed incomprehensible to her, the girl that could not remember her name felt herself tremble. “Hm ah?” She answered aloud, as she reached out with unsteady hands to ascertain just how real the red-eyed shadow was. Her own shape remained unfamiliar, and its physical state still questionable, but all that was important to her now was confirming she was not alone.
She felt the cold being who looked upon her with a tilt in her stare. “Perhaps your fire was dulled more than… Any would have thought.” She murmured. “This is not ideal but it is workable. Regardless, we have to go, we have dallied in this place for far too long.” Two arms grabbed her and then lifted. “I have decided that we shall go back to the place where we would have any chance of gaining favor over the battles to become. Back where we first met.”
Everything ached, but the dull pain was not enough to sunder her, and despite the chill touch of the one who held her, there was a feeling of something else. Wherever next she would go in the world, she felt that she’d no longer be lonely now.
"Do not worry." The woman spoke as they began to walk. "You are safe now and I will take care of you. As I have, all along, my dear sweet Vale."
—
They wandered across a never-ending plain of green blades, beneath a changing sky that followed a cycle from bright to dark back to bright and so on as time passed. They wandered, and Vale found that soon she could walk, albeit slowly, and speak, though she did not have much to say, and perceive her surroundings with a newfound greater clarity. She saw the Dark Ring, the bright Sun, and the pale Moon, surrounded by shining stars and vast clouds - and the sight of such wonders left her in awed silence, in forlorn contemplation.
When the two of them came across a stream of water, Vale saw herself for the first time, and understood her own shape. She saw the similarities she had with her companion; the crimson eyes and the black garb they wore, and greater was the kinship she felt, though she could speak her feelings aloud, for perhaps she was just imagining what her reflection looked like. Deluding herself into seeing what she wanted to see.
Then an unexpected sensation swelled within her, spreading from her left limb, demanding and volatile. She did not understand what was happening to her, and she had gasped in pain before seeking out aid. The woman, who called herself Zima, was nearby. She touched her arm gingerly and shook her head. “You must give sustenance to the parasite within you. It will be alright Vale, we simply need to find a life. Let us look within the stream.” She grabbed her hand of ice and led her back to the water’s edge. “Reach within and use your powers to search for a fish.” She guided.
Vale was uncertain what a fish was; her mind understood that it was a creature that swam in water, but did provide a mental picture so that she could recognize one upon sight. Standing beside Zima, peering past her reflection to the depths below where other much smaller beings that were alive swam to and fro while paying no heed to her existence. She stared at what she could only assume were fish, though there were a wide variety of them, it seemed, and Vale wondered whether she was seeing other types of creatures that she had yet to identify, or not.
However her pondering was less prevalent than the urge to suddenly seize one, swiftly reaching out with her hand and impaling one of the larger fish with her fingers, allowing her to lift its bleeding body out of the water. The fish, she wondered whether the fish had a name for she was uncertain what else to call it, feebly flailed and floundered in its viscera making it mildly difficult for Vale to study it in detail. Her arm was throbbing, and she could find no salve, so she held up her catch before Zima, hoping for further instruction.
“Very good Vale. Now, end its suffering.” She said with little emotion in her voice.
Once again confronted by a concept she could recall, but not comprehend, Vale stared at the fish she held while it was slowly eviscerated. She remembered the feelings of being crushed and realized that she had inflicted that same suffering upon this creature, so she hastily freed her fingers from its innards, and helped the fish free itself from the prison of its flesh by ripping it apart. It was so easy to help it, and in a very quick moment, she had completely shredded the cage the fish had been trapped in. Afterwards, she looked back to Zima, even holding up her arm which no longer hurt, but was soaked in blood.
Zima nodded with approval and put a hand upon her shoulder. “Well done. Now remember this lesson; To feed your hunger you must free creatures from the suffering that is life. Like you did here. You must also…” She paused and then tilted her head. “Never mind that. Free life from its constraints when you grow hungry. You will need to start hunting by yourself as we travel. Am I understood?” She asked, holding out her hand.
Vale took hold, and murmured, “We travel…” unable to articulate the rest of her thoughts, and simply echoing Zima. Too many concepts were difficult for her to grasp, and she focused primarily on the fact that Zima had said there would be hunts where she was alone and without her companion. Vale understood, but she didn’t want to hunt alone. She wondered if Zima would ask her to free them from the suffering of life someday, or if her companion would rather remain stuck with sorrow forever?
—
On their journey, Vale freed many creatures from their cages, the prisons that held their true selves were smashed and shattered with hand and ice, and Vale was glad. Though she knew not where they were going, it felt more like a journey as opposed to a trip; the destination was less important than the experiences had along the way. Vale found herself enamored with the sights, silently expressing her delight and curiosity as the two came across new and diverse creatures and locations where Vale would bring salvation through the liberation of destroyed life.
They had passed beyond the plains beneath the ring of darkness, where they encountered strange creatures similar to them that were capable of speech like Zima. When Vale went to remove the restraints on their being by breaking their bodies, they had called out to her and Vale wished that speech came easily to her. She hoped her actions would convey her intentions better than words, and so she dashed towards the nearest of the horned folk that they first met, and she cleaved the creature in half before projecting numerous spears of ice from her hand that pierced the two halves of the bisected body.
For reasons she could not understand, the other creatures had become frightened of her, and attempted to ward her away. There were cries of alarm, and they called her a monster! Vale stared down at her bloodstained hands, the dried gore that she always struggled to remove after she helped a lot of beings find freedom from the oppression of life. She had been surprised how clean it was, breaking that first horned one, but now the others all fought against her, others fleeing from her presence. What was she supposed to do?
Zima was at her side before she could understand how, having cast a wave of flame that spurned her attackers away. So silent was her step. Her hood covered her face, hanging low as she placed a reassuring hand on Vale’s shoulder. “Do you see,” she whispered, “They fight against it, they do not understand that we do this as a kindness. Do not falter in your resolve, dear Vale. It is our burden alone that permits us this sacred act. Life must be extinguished, so they are free from all their suffering and sorrow. Or,” her touch became a slight squeeze, “It must be repurposed.” her whisper became a slight hiss. “For now, free them.”
With newfound conviction, Vale resumed her deliverance of liberation, violently breaking all that she could so that life no longer held those that suffered under its tyranny - as its slaves. Let all creatures be reborn like she was, and be given the strength and solace needed to continue onward. How she was like the true wind which passed through their number, heedless of their resistance. She was like the true water which washed over them entirely, and pulled them along with ease. She was like the true earth which buried itself inside their tainted bodies and served as a foundation for her coming. She was akin to the true flame that cleansed them by burning away the pain they felt.
How far Vale and Zima had come already, and yet, how much farther must they go? Vale knew that when she was previously burdened by the elements, chaotic and imbalanced, she would not have reached where she was now if she had been alone. She felt fulfilled when she was with Zima, and finally possessed the ghost of a smile as she looked at her companion. Scattered all around Vale were the many strewn bodies of those she had saved from suffering.
—
It was raining, something that reminded Vale of how much the entirety of the world was actually afflicted with sickness and insanity. The harsh droplets of water fell from the sky in mass, descending from dark clouds hanging over the land like a fervent army, endlessly charging, and mercilessly pounding both Vale and Zima as they wandered forth in the dreary weather. They were fortunate that they had reached a region where plenty of shelter was offered by the caves that dotted the mountains all around, and so they chose to wait for a time in one such cave.
Vale stood close to the entrance, between where the heavy downpour fell outside, and the quiet of the deep darkness that was the cave - how it loomed heavily upon her. She had become familiar with the light, and now she found that the shadows dancing among the stalagmites, and the echoing maw which seemed to consume everything in the cave because of her lack of vision, all of it, was frightening her. “Are you afraid?” She asked, turning to her one companion.
She sat unmoving upon the stony floor. Zima craned her neck to look up at Vale. “No. Are you?” Before she gave the girl any time to speak, she said, “There is nothing to be afraid of here. The shadows and dark are our constant companions Vale. You must learn to accept the dark, only then will you understand and be able to use it to your advantage.”
“I can’t see?” Vale replied, gesturing towards the depths where the clamorous song of rain eternally echoed, yet it was the whisper of the wind that concerned her, how it seemed as though the earth were breathing. The confines of the cave were too similar to the nightmares when she was surrounded by stone that would pulverize her. Any moment, the ceiling could come collapsing down, or the ground beneath her feet would sunder and she’d fall. Vale hated the cycle she saw, only slowed but still present, as her limited liberty would be lost then. In her panic, she shifted closer to Zima, and stretched out her hand, wanting to be held.
The shadow, with some reluctance, pulled Vale into a cold embrace. She simply held her for a time, before speaking. “There is a great power within you, Vale. You must harness it if you wish to unlock your full potential. To see in the dark, would be a feat and one, I have no doubt, you will be able to accomplish.”
“How?” Vale asked, clinging to every word as tightly as she clung to Zima.
“We are connected in more ways than you can imagine. Our order’s purpose is to free those who claim life. By doing so, we are able to use the power cursed upon us to enact our will. Now, close your eyes and reach within. It shall be a dark, gentle place that you will find. Tap into it, bend it to your will. Let it guide your hand. Now try.” Zima whispered.
Vale did as she was told, shutting her eyes, focusing her gaze on that which Zima described as dark and gentle, and would be found within. She understood she shared a connection with her companion, something she saw, something she felt, a power - though it did not yield to her will yet, it guided her heart and her hands with its ebon luminescence, like a light shaped from shadow. Suddenly the strange power submitted to her, and she found that it flowed freely through her limbs and she embodied that eldritch energy.
Trembling with anxious thoughts and otherworldly strength, Vale opened her eyes and sought out assurance from Zima, as the cloud of doubt in her mind only obscured what she meant to do next. Her vision became blurred, and she could only perceive the silhouette of the one beside her, along with two burning eyes. “Our will?” She asked, feebly peering at Zima.
"Our will spans the depths of time. We shall always endure in some form, freeing life from its confines. That is our purpose and we must have great resolve to complete it." Zima mumbled. "Your own will is what you wish to do right at this moment; See. Strength flows through you now use it to pierce the darkness."
Emboldened by Zima’s proclamation, Vale once more did as she was told, turning her visually-impaired gaze to the frightening screen of shadows that sealed the back of the cave from view. She reached into herself, pushing outwards the power through her palms, then her fingertips, and she watched as the power manifested as umbral wisps, dancing and swirling around her hands. She called upon more, creating a black bonfire before her which she held suspended on nothing, and smiled as the smokeless flames burned away the air itself, leaving an emptiness in existence. It soothed her.
She became startled when the wall of darkness at the back of the cave seemed to react, suddenly undulating and shifting much more visibly, as though the darkness itself were akin to thousands of small serpents coiled upon each other, and were now retreating. It was a strange sight, the screen sundering itself into many sections and scattering with angry hisses until it was completely gone - and the rest of the cave was revealed. The shadows had hidden much; there was actually light beyond the barrier, where many large and small colorful fungi glowed close to shimmering veins of precious ores spread along the earthen walls. Farther back, there was a large hole upon the floor where the shadowy serpents fled, and the faint sound of singing came from.
Zima’s voice came into her ear, "Very good Vale. You have done well and so quickly. A fast learner but do take your time to fully grasp what you've awakened. Do not let it control you or you will be consumed entirely. The darkness is our friend but it does not approve of the weak. Meet it as an equal or a master. Now, what do you see?"
“Earth… to be erased?” Vale asked, uncertain.
Zima said nothing for a time. “Is that so? And why should we erase such earth?” she asked in the darkness.
The question proved to be difficult as Vale was aware she had an answer, but did not know a way to articulate it using speech - for words still eluded her, or perhaps their more abstract meanings were what eluded her. So she struggled, unable to impart her thoughts on the matter, her feelings which were fondness towards the solace of erasing the elements, her hatred; hot like life and blood upon her hands, and a desire for vengeance against all that assailed her when she was once vulnerable. Though this particular piece of the earth hadn’t been the aggressor, its ignorance and torpid manner all nonetheless offended her greatly.
Vale spoke with actions, holding out her hand and from her palm spewed forth hungry shadows that splashed and licked at the luminous fungi and earth. She watched as life stirred upon being besieged by her powers, and the light fought against her, clashing violently. It was not enough. The many mushrooms shriveled and perished, the ore cracked and shattered, replaced by black crevices all along the walls now. Oddly enough, even with the now lost illumination, Vale found that she could still see throughout the cave with her blurred sight, and her retained vision only reassured her hammering heart. However, her power had yet to yield to her command, and consumed more of herself, her inner fire, than she had hoped it would.
Staring down the stygian passage, Vale realized another aspect of her answer she couldn’t convey to Zima yet: Seeing the shards of shadow blossoming where the mushrooms once sat, she recalled that she wanted to find and create more companions for her companion - so that Zima would never feel lonely… So that she herself would never feel lonely. She turned her gaze to those cold crimson eyes, and hoped there was understanding in those frozen fires balefully burning before her, yet so soothing.
"Life comes in many forms, Vale. Not most of it is so moving as those who fight back but all contain it within. Even earth. You have done well here this day, sheltered from the storm." Zima whispered. "If we are to continue our crusade we will need all the strength we can find. I find it most compelling you have unlocked the secret within our power. The ability to create a shade of life is no easy feat, one I have not yet attempted. Mushrooms are a start but we will need to experiment more. To fully grasp our limitless potential."
Vale found herself nodding, as something in those spoken words stirred forth a deep feeling of yearning for what was now faint and forgotten within her. She swayed slightly, softly smiling, before she stumbled forward and was forced into a stupor by exhaustion. She closed her eyes, and repeatedly pulsed with otherworldly power, promising retribution upon the earth should stone or sediment disturb her now. She swaddled herself in unseen unliving fire which would feast upon any life that came near.
“To find our family…” She mumbled, barely capable of listening to the loud downfall of rain outside and the subtle song that echoed from deeper within the cave, as well as the almost silent presence of Zima, but she could not sleep, for she thought there was no such thing as a peaceful slumber for one such as herself. The waking world and the realm of dreams were both broken, and she could not rest until they had been mended by her hand. She would rewrite reality and turn it into something beautiful, she realized, and wallowed in her shadows until she would regain her strength.
"Family…" Zima mumbled. "What would we do without it?" And then she grew silent and did not speak again.
The nameless, memoryless girl awakes slowly. Zima names her Vale and the two go about the plains as Vale gains more and more strength. Zima teaches her that all life must be freed from it’s confines and Vale, murders any who they come across. They share a moment in a cave during a thunderstorm and Vale learns to use their Order’s powers.
She approached the fallen god, and placed her palm upon his head, slowly caressing his hollowed cheeks and cleansing his broken and bloodied body with her nascent powers. Though she could not truly mend his armor, she could adorn him in attire appropriate of his heroic acts and sacrifices, so she conjured exquisite garb which appeared on him, and she laid him properly upon a pedestal, wherein she shut his eyes as she murmured a prayer. "May you find peace and joy, wherever you have gone..."
Her mind held thoughts and memories that were too much for her to comprehend at once, and she sought a moment of respite, away from the responsibility and grief she felt where she could collect and calm herself. The gentle touch of the wind upon her skin and feathers eased her concerns and soothed her hurting heart - though this world was pervaded by pain and sorrow upon conception, there was also hope and love... and Monica knew that it was her role to protect those that would preyed upon by the violent and avaricious. She could see the collection of humans waking, and hear the bird chirping, and the endless clear sky above reminded her of all the potential this virgin world possessed. Let there be artists and geniuses that create wondrous works and concepts, she internally proclaimed.
As her wings spread out, she turned to face the other gods and goddesses, and she introduced herself. "My name is Monica, it is a pleasure to meet with all of you."
She remained rather unfamiliar with greetings, etiquette, as well as prolonged conversations, and immediately averted her gaze after addressing the other divine with such a blithe manner when the world was on the verge of ruin, or so it seemed. The triggering event would come unless they came together to prevent it, so Monica let out a breath she did not realize she had been holding, and focused on what she must do.
Outside the idyllic realm wherein they had awakened alongside humanity, born anew, the remainder of reality was rife with tumultuous chaos that would not allow life to thrive. The nodes were the keys to creating a peaceful world, and she must reach them. "I, hmm... want to make a peaceful world, will you help me?" She swiftly asked as she peered at the nearby node that provided a map of the known world, where the other nodes could be found, before looking at each of the divine present and awaiting their answers.
Monica awakens and calls upon the other gods and goddess to aid her in making a peaceful world, after having cleansed and prayed for the fallen Peninal.
Akin to humanity lingering in the remnants of the dying god’s realm, Monica manifests as a mortal except large feathery white wings emerge from her back, granting her the gift of flight. She appears as a maiden garbed in lovely alabastrine attire, angelic and pure, with silver eyes and fair skin. She lacks an aura of authority and strength, but there is an awareness in her sight that conveys deep contemplation and consideration of all that she sees.
Persona
The embodiment of gentle generosity, Monica provides guidance and aid to those that worship her, and even to those that oppose her, for she finds fulfillment in helping others find happiness - ever sincere and compassionate in her endeavors to spread joy. She is eternally polite, even to those that act rudely in her presence, often speaking softly and applying a tender touch when changing the world and the creatures that inhabit it. She prefers letting life change itself, content to observe the beauty of creation from afar.
She devotes much of her time to her studies and the closest faithful; dedicating the day to hearing and answering those that pray to her, and exhausting the night with delving into research and lore. Though she possesses great power, she chooses to refrain from grandiose displays and tumultuous proclamations, as she is not fond of being the center of attention. She is innately demure, seeking a peaceful means to bring hope and salvation to the world before the end comes, as opposed to gathering might and preparing for war. Monica would never willingly wield a weapon and harm another living being, but she will act to protect the innocent and those that cannot fight for themselves.
Will
Peace and prosperity attained through prayers, Monica wishes to preserve the ever-changing and eternal beauty of the world by protecting the foundations of creativity and art; choice, curiosity, and commitment. She has no desire for a throne or crown, she simply seeks to see a world wherein people can pursue their dreams, and be inspired by creation and its many wonders. She believes that the sacred aspects of life, the heavens and divine works, should be shown to all creatures capable of thought and memorization, as beauty is found in the eyes of the beholder, and Monica delights in watching the glitter of cosmic lucidity in the gaze of mortals.
She has begun a journey to acquire wisdom that she imparts upon the scholars and artists of the world - erecting temples where knowledge flows freely, and the inquisitive will inherit their fateful enlightenment. Otherwise, she is healing those that have been crippled by the cruelties of the monsters possessed by greed and hatred, insisting to those that have strayed from salvation or were denied their opportunities to be happy… that there is still hope if one clings onto faith.
Allow this writer to reiterate, she would create a world wherein people can be free to pursue their dreams, as she has no desire for a throne or a crown, and wants to let life make its own choices. If all of the nodes were in her possession, she would attempt to delegate divine duties to others so that the weight of the world didn't fall entirely onto her shoulders, but primarily because she would prefer to watch what others would do. Though in truth, the world she would create would be one inspired by her own experiences and encounters along her journey, so it has yet to be defined and fully take shape in her mind...
Vampiretwilight
Lord Zee
Timemaster
DracoLunaris
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