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In Divinus: The God RP, Mk. III. Finished in Record Time™! → 5 yrs ago Forum: Advanced Roleplay
A Reunion




The chorus of soft wooden steps parted the tall grass, a low, harmonious tapping among the rustle of wavering stems. Split could barely hear them when she tried to. Most of the time, she simply forgot about them. The peoples of the beaches and rivers they had met had told her that this happened to all of them with the rush of the water, near which they spent all their lives, and that was one of the few times when she really had understood these strange, flabby creatures. The murmur of a river or the crash of waves on a strand were always alien and baffling to her, and a little frightening for someone who had only known water in small dirty springs, but then they felt the same about the wooden march. This made them even.

Now, the breathing of the sea was within earshot, and that was what she listened to. It was faint, far away, and anyone else would not have caught it over the rhythm of the mannequins’ procession. Sometimes, a cricket or some other nocturnal insect screeched nearby, and then she had to strain her ears to hear the waves again, but that was not often. The column was large enough to scare away most animals, to the point that she had to make some wide circles to catch anything. Even the bird she was skilfully plucking and cutting open as she walked on three hands had cost her a short detour before sunset.

Damocles’ – a name still difficult to roll off her tongue, maybe because she almost never called it – following had grown much since the first night she had seen them. The way it did had mystified her at first; in the first few villages they had come across, she had followed his purposeful movements gaping as wordlessly as one of the dummies, only throwing confused looks at the terrified beings that either ran or crowded around her. Luckily, when he had deadened the limbs of the first to fail his judgment before her (someone who either hoarded food or took mates with an unfair contest, she did not remember now), she had understood the why well enough not to hew him in half. It wasn’t hard to grasp, if she looked at it, and it was fair. She would not have done much differently if it had been up to her.

She still didn’t know why really it was up to Damocles to decide, no thanks to him never saying much, but he was good at it, which was enough. Someone had to do it, and it was better this way. As soon as she had realised that, she had stopped trailing him every time, expecting to catch him in a mistake, and taken to milling around with the rest of the villages’ people. It did not take long for them to stop being afraid, maybe because she was grey like them, and got more so as her age started to show. They looked funny, with too few eyes and four stubby arms, but they could do a lot, and, when she started to understand them better, had a lot to say. Almost always, they could use a hand with something, and she was happy to stretch her arms for some fish and a few stories about the place. Both fish and stories blended into a nondescript fog in her memories after a while, but it was good to have friendly if strange faces to talk to – she had only realised that some time after leaving the spot of her first conversation in many years – and leave knowing they might live a little better off for a bit.

For all it felt good when things were done fairly, it was better when the dummy didn’t have to do anything, and so that night Split’s mood was high. They had left the last place the day before without adding another wooden figure to their number. With no newcomer to study, she busied herself with the bird, snapping its ribcage open and licking up the innards before they spilled to the ground. The only part that still bothered her about eating as she walked was having to stop when she dropped something.

There came a moment where a dot upon the horizon could have been mistaken for a bird, except it grew in size as it approached, forming into a tall figure of radiant white. The figure flew leisurely, as if it didn’t have a care in the world, or it wasn’t paying attention. As it came closer, more details emerged. The radiant white that adored it was actually armor, and covering its head was a helmet of wings. It had been flying directly adjacent to them, but with a turn of the head it began its descent to their location. The puppets gave the figure no mind, as it, or she (for the armor was form fitting), landed across from Split, as the puppets continued on as they always did.

The glowing woman was tall, taller than even Split but not as tall as some of the puppets. At her side she carried a sword, but gave no move to grasp it. Instead, she looked at Split and tilted her head.

The kostral blinked with her fore-eyes, pulling back the hand with the bird. One of her arms went to the haft of her axe, strapped over her back with a belt of some beast's leathery hide, but stopped midway. Her gaze ran over the newcomer as though seeking a certain particular, and a light of distant remembrance seemed to flicker through its murk, as though she might suddenly recall something gone by long ago.

But the light passed, and she looked old as she blinked again in confusion and asked "Who're you?" in a worn voice.

There was a concert of creaks as the marching parade of mannequins suddenly all turned their heads towards the standing figure, including the blank face of the leading puppet. The ensemble stopping to bear witness as they surrounded the scene.

"Oh Split…" came a sweet but sad voice. The woman's helmet then turned to mist to reveal familiar black eyes, wide and brimmed with black tears. Her face was small and dainty with high cheekbones and small lips leading up to a nose. Features that at one point in time, had never existed, but now seemed to fit just right. "I never thought I'd see you again." she said.

Split’s eyes narrowed to slits as she struggled with the haze of years over her memory, then widened as recognition finally flitted through them. She pushed herself up to two feet, letting the rest of her arms fall down her sides. “Akhrya? That really you?” The long unused name came out distorted by the harshness of kostral speech. “You’ve been-” Words were lost in a dry rattle in her throat and sought another way through the first thing she could pick up on. “You got a mouth now?”

The woman began to laugh. ”Split!” Arya’s demeanor changed to happiness as she made her way over to the kostral. ”Come here you!” Arya said, hugging her even if she resisted. Split stood stock-still, craning her head to follow her. One hand clumsily laid itself over Arya’s back.

“Spit, girl-” The hand suddenly shot up and cuffed the back of Arya’s head. “What’d I tell you?! Stay back, di’n’t I?!” The kostral breathed out in a hiss and grasped her back with full three arms. “You coulda been dead all I knew!”

”I’m sorry.” Arya cooed into Split. ”I’m so sorry. It hurt Penelope… I had to… I’m sorry Split. I should have listened.” Arya said, her voice thick with emotion.

“You spitting right should’ve,” the kostral grumbled, buffeting her again, though far more lightly, for good measure. “You’re lucky you got to learn that on your skin and came out of it. Better remember that,” she eyed Arya’s sword and tapped it with a finger, “Or this works too. Wised up about always having a cutter at hand, hrm?”

A creak sounded behind Split, the many empty faces still staring.

”Oh yes.” Arya chuckled before stepping back, reluctantly letting go of Split. She put her hands on her hips and looked the kostral over, before looking over her shoulder to the puppets. ”That’s uh… Quite the crowd you have. Who are they?” she asked.

“That’s,” Split scratched her teeth and corrected herself, “used to be people.” She twisted her head, looking for something among the wooden crowd, then pointed towards one particular shape. “That’s Damocles. We’re clearing this place up.” She nodded at the massed dummies. “People here live together, get each other to run things. We see if they’re doing good, and if they put their arms on other folk’s heads, they get made like this.” With a heavy breath, she dropped back to four hands. “Better than killing.”

Arya looked concerned for a moment, before nodding in approval. ”That’s something, I suppose. Still… Are they really alive after turning?” Arya said, looking back at Split.

The sword that hung above Damocles twitched and a sound akin to a branch straining creaked eerily in the air, "...yes..."

Arya turned back to look at the leader, Damocles with a surprised expression on her face. ”Who created you?” she asked.

"We..." The creaking sounded again, "Have... A... Task... To... Do..." The many faces shifted in unison to face Split. Arya turned to look at Split again.

The kostral rolled her shoulders in a sequence of what looked like shrugs. “He’s always like that. Haven’t got much more out of him in years.” Her side-eyes ran along the circle of eyelessly staring heads. She made some quick, dry gestures in Damocles’ direction. “Don't think he gets that I'm not made of wood either. Never lets me get a break. Want to come along with us a bit?"

Arya eyes the puppets skeptically before wrinkling her nose and turning to look at Split. A smile crossed her face and she nodded. "I'd love to! We have so much to catch up on." she said excitedly.

"Lots of talking," Split made another sign at the dummies and began to pad ahead, the shambling procession continuing its march, "Never thought I'd need much of it, but go long without any, then more with just him, and spit if I feel it." She took a bite from the bird, which had now been shaken back and forth a good deal. "You know what's been of the rabbit?"

At the mention of Penelope, Arya shook her head sadly. "I haven't been able to look for her, or for you, otherwise I would have found the both of you years ago. I was hoping Penelope might have been with you… But that doesn't seem to be the case. I… I hope she made it out alright." Arya said walking along.

"Let's," Split assented, "She'd got that far with us." The bird was quickly disappearing into her mouth. "Where've you been all this time? I can't get around easy as that, but you got that. The world out there really that big that you'd gotten lost too?"

"Do you remember the God I told you about, K'nell? I found myself bleeding out upon his continent, Tendlepog. I was found by Hermes, a Dreamer and one K'nell created personally. She and her wife, Xiaoli, avatar of Shengshi took me in and nursed me back to health. I… I stayed with them for a long time. Looking back on it now, I should have searched for you when I had the chance… But I grew comfortable there. And then they had babies and another quest and then I found my sister or she found me and and… And… I'm sorry Split." Arya said, her head hung low.

Damocles seemed to regard Arya for an uncanny moment, his head spun completely around on his shoulders as he walked forward.

"Don't beat yourself on me, girl," the kostral grumbled, loping up to give Arya another affectionate cuff, "Right as guts, looking after a nest's important, I'd know that. I'm old enough to
stay whole on my own, hatchlings ain't." She ruminated on something as she plucked the last bones dry and threw them away. "Don't know what any of them are, but they sound lively. Which of the two got to be mother?"

Arya gave a small smile and then said, ”Hermes I called mom, Xiaoli I called mother. Both were females. They had a beautiful life.” Arya said forlorn.

"How'd you say, both?" Split blinked, befuddled, "How's that work? It's already weird that some people can lay the hatch and stay alive both," she gestured in the broad direction of the last village they had left, "But you're saying the two of them laid it together?"

Arya scratched the back of her head. "Well uh, beats me Split. They never told me how they were able to do so. I kinda just figured that some sort of blessing or divinity made it work. It's just one of life's many questions and one that will probably never be answered." she finished with a sigh.

"Lots of things in the world we don't get," Split thoughtfully looked at the dummies surrounding them, "Guess they won't tell us now they're dead. Didn't know that happened to godly things too."

"Not dead… Well… I guess dead. But they went… Somewhere else. Hard to explain. But yes, I suppose godly things can die." Arya said shrugging.

"If they're still somewhere, can't be that bad, long as it's not this way," Split's hand slapped the wooden flank of a dummy. The figure trudged forward without even turning. "Be good if there was a real death for the bigger ones too, though. Sometimes this," she nudged her head at the dummy, "can't cut it, you know."

"Not bad." Arya agreed. "Well… Not everyone deserves death. Some just need help to see the error of their ways, you know. Death should only come as the final, last resort." she said softly, the faceless Damocles seeming to stare.

“Maybe you’re right,” the kostral’s look was still pensive, “But you’ve got to deal with some things good. There’s not always time to think. Or there is and it doesn’t help for spit. You got this for a reason.” She pointed at Arya’s sword. “Might’ll get to it that it’s you or them, and I’ll rather have you around.”

Arya looked to the ground, wrinkling her nose as she did. After a moment she looked up with a small smile. "Thank you Split. I know things can get fast suddenly, and we don't have a choice, but it never hurts to try, within reason of course."

"...Choice..." A lone creak sounded. It seemed as if there might be more to it for a lingering moment, but then nothing more ever came.

"Yeah, choice," Split waved her head, "We always got that, you know. Can be anytime that we'd choose to just lie down and die," she stepped down louder than usual with one hand, "But that wouldn't be a right one. Gotta always mind what's right. Not that hard if you got a bit to think about it."

"That's true." Arya said, stretching as she walked. "So, how did you end up here, on this continent?" Arya asked.

"Can't really say. Was a gutted long time ago," Split gritted the sides of her mouth against each other, "Think I was back in those tunnels of Chop's, then I just wasn't. Bet that thing's made to pass easy. Being here, that's been the hard part…"



The night dragged on along with the steps of the cortege. Without clouds to obscure the sky, its progress was clear to anyone that cared to look up, but none did; neither the blindly tireless dummies, nor Arya and Split, caught in each other's tales of the years since their descent below Galbar.

The Garden had passed well over half its course when the memories finally ran out. For a bit there was silence, much like on the nights of their first voyage, save for the rhythmic march to their sides. Split did not hear it, and reminisced.

"All that," she mused, scraping an elbow against her side, "and walking at night's still the same."

"It is." Arya agreed, as the chorus of night took over. After a brief moment of silence between the two, Arya looked towards Split and said, "So… What now? Will you continue on with Damocles or… Or maybe you could come with me, to the Eye?" Arya asked sheepishly.

The kostral let out a whistling chuckle. “I can’t fly, girl. I’d slow you.” Her head motioned at the dummies, or perhaps the spaces past them. “‘Sides, there’s still a lot left to do here, and other places after that. Someone’s got to keep the world clear.” She propped herself up on two limbs, and laid a hand on the back of Arya’s head. “We’ll get to where you’ll be someday. Who knows as maybe I’ll be the one as needs your help then.” She chuckled again.

Arya looked into Splits eyes and nodded slowly. She sighed and said, "A most noble quest, Split. I wish you could come with me though… The Eye is a beautiful place. But I understand, I do. But when the day comes and you need help, you'll know where to find me." she kicked a stone as she walked and looked at the ground again before looking back up in thought. "You know… They don't expect me back at the Eye for awhile. I could stay a couple days before leaving. If you want."

“Think I’d chase you off?” It was not easy to tell if Split was ever smiling, her mouth being hidden and voice coarse, but she was trying to make it perceptible now. “Stay long as you want. You’ll see us working.” She walked on on her two arms, staring away with her opposite side-eye. “Then we’ll see that Eye you got someday. We got time for everything.”

"Perfect!" Arya said, flashing a toothy smile.

"...A.... Task.... To... Be... Done..." Damocles seemed to agree in his own way.




In Divinus: The God RP, Mk. III. Finished in Record Time™! → 5 yrs ago Forum: Advanced Roleplay

Shengshi

5MP/3FP


&

Laurien




It had been three weeks since that fateful day upon the beach. Three, long weeks of waiting, of anger, confusion, and far too many questions. None of it had been easy, the lies were the hardest of all to spin, but she did so. She told Rowan that Orvus was desperately called away by something, one of his siblings most likely. He did not know when he would return, but entrusted Laurien to watch over them until Shengshi arrived. It was easy to explain that her sword had been given to protect the eye while Orvus and Arya were away. She also made mention of the powers that Orvus bestowed upon her to succeed in this task. Most importantly, she had her out, and that Orvus had told her to protect her people when Shengshi came to take them. The Eye had Arya and Orvus, those that went with Ohannakeloi had his protection, but these ones needed protection as well.

She had been convincing and most believed her, save for Rowan. It was hard to tell what she was thinking, but Laurien knew the trust that had been between them, was badly broken. She shrugged it off and said her goodbyes when the time came. Lily and Ava did not understand why she had to go, and Laurien could hardly even look at them when she gave her reasons. They left crying.

As for the Eye itself, without Orvus around, rumors spread rampantly, of abandonment, and faith. Had their god abandoned them? Laurien knew the answer, and it was one she could never tell. As such, a new rumor was created by her little followers. When the River Lord came, he would take any who wanted luxury, and slowly this truth settled into the mortal hearts of the Nebulites. Many were swayed to join Polyastera, but those who thought it foolish and morally wrong generated a rift in the Nebulites. Rowan was chief among them, and became their voice. Those who were on Polyastera’s side, began to gather at the tree. Talks were had almost daily, and Laurien watched as the rift grew.

And then, Shengshi came at last.

A golden speck on the horizon quickly became the magnificent ship sailing on a constantly breaking and reforming river. It slowly descended down to the great branch, where it neatly landed on a small grove, crushing it utterly. The river beneath the ship became stairs up the side of the hull, and at the very top stood Shengshi, wearing a dark scowl. The scowl melted away after a moment, though, and was replaced with a forced smile.

“Be greeted, people of Orvus and--...” A few echoing sniffs sounded. “... Ohannakeloi! As promised, I have come to give you what it is that you crave!”

A large crowd began to gather before the stairs, as one after another the Nebulites stared in awe. Through the crowd, came Laurien wearing a simple green dress. She pushed through to the very front and then bowed, with many of the Nebulites following her cue. ”Greetings your lordship! Welcome to the Branch of the World Tree and, to the Eye of Desolation.” she said before standing back up.

The snake bowed back, albeit not as deeply. “Ah, Laurien - a pleasure to see you, as always. Yes, this is my first time sailing over this land… I do enjoy the jungle motif.” He hummed to himself. “So, would Polyastera please come forth?”

“Of course, Your Lordship,” came a voice like lavender and silk. The young woman with skin like strawberry milk and hair like Heliopolis itself stepped forth from between the masses, magnificent sparkles twinkling in between the luminous strands hanging from her head down to her hips. She curtesied and the snake wrinkled his nose.

“You called and I have come. Are all these gathered behind you determined to come along for one night of unparalleled luxury?”

“Firmly determined, Your Lordship,” Polyastera assured. Laurien smirked and crossed her arms. There would be no coming back from this. The moment Polly stepped on that ship, she would never go back to this life. It was what she desired, after all and Laurien had simply given her a subtle push.

The snake nodded slowly. “So be it. A word of caution, however - once this day has passed, you may not ever achieve this level of opulence and richness ever again. Are all of you prepared to live your lives knowing this?”

“Absolutely!” Polyastera swore almost before the snake had finished speaking. Shengshi winced a little and flattened his mouth.

“V-very well, then.” He cleared his throat. “Come aboard then, all those who wish, and experience the great wealth that is the fortune of Shengshi!”

Polyastera nearly sprinted up the stairs, followed by Pallason, Titanon, Philia and a horde of other Nebulites lusting for the snake’s promised treatment. Laurien watched her people go up the stairs, her hands now behind her back. She waited until the last straggler made their way up on board before she even began walking. Her heart began to beat faster as her thoughts turned to how she was going to explain Orvus’ disappearance to his Lordship. Would he ask more questions? Would he snoop in her mind for the truth? She took a deep breath, trying to calm her nerves. Whatever was going to happen, would happen and she needed some wine.

Immediately as her heel touched the deck, a crew of servants surrounded her, bowed, and promptly began to dress her in unfathomably soft silks. The servants employed ladders and chairs to reach high enough, one of them squirting a small cloud of lotus perfume onto her cheeks with an inclined head. A distance away, Laurien saw Polyastera wave to her, her body overtaken by ten small servants all massaging her every inch. Laurien could not help but smile at the sight, and waved back. She shivered at the softness of the silks and the smell of the lotus was delightful. The servant with the perfume bottle asked politely: “Would the Lady like a massage, as well?”

”No, but she would like a bath. And if at all possible, the same darlings who washed me so long ago.” Laurien purred.

“Of course, my Lady,” the servant replied with a smile and descended the ladder. The other Nebulites around were expressing their joy and pleasure through laughter, gasps and sighs. The palace gates swung open behind them to unleash a tide of robed Servants, the flanks carrying fragrant dishes in both hands that seemed to lure in the eyes of everyone aboard. The centre of the great wave came in the form of teams of six carrying huge pots. Between each team came tray bearers, their hands carrying a disk towering with cups. The Nebulites, now dressed in silks matching their colours, eyed the food ravenously. The snake snapped his fingers and the pots were lowered to the deck with thunderous bangs. He snapped them again and the lids atop the pots were pulled off. An overwhelming sour, intoxicating smell drowned out the scent of the meals.

Polyastera’s eyed flared open and she licked her lips. “What… Is that?”

Pallason gulped. “I have no idea, but I want it.”

”Wine my darlings, drink up.” Laurien mused, before having a cup filled for her. She took a drink and sighed as the flavor washed over her tongue. It was delicious.

Polyastera gasped and nearly ripped a winecup out of a frightened Servant’s hand. She downed it all in a single gulp. Then she froze. She stood still with the cup to her lips. After a moment, tears welled up in her eyes and she slowly lowered the cup with a shivering hand. The frightened servant sheepishly offered to refill it and she held it out with an empty expression on her face. Her friends gave her concerned looks and Philia asked worriedly:

“Polly, are you okay?”

Polyastera looked up at Laurien with eyes like ravenous wolves. A maddened grin crossed her lips and she had another drink of wine, downing this cup all at once, too. “I love this. I LOVE IT!”

”I knew you would.” Laurien whispered under her breath before smiling widely, ”Drink until your heart's content, then drink more!” she said, taking another sip of her wine.

Polyastera already looked tipsy. Her friends had delved into similar levels of decadence. The mood on deck quickly turned from wild joy to senseless debauchery, food and wine being inhaled like air. The mess on the floors, clothes, walls and everywhere in between disappeared as far as it appeared before Servant brooms, mops and rags. The snake found the sight to be surprising, and perhaps a little concerning. However, he had promised them the day, and the day, they would have. He turned and went up into his tower. There, he would wait until the next dawn.

Laurien, meanwhile, was being guided down to the bathhouse as before. There, she was greeted by the six young ladies who had washed her all those years ago. They hadn’t aged a day, still as beautiful and smiling as they were back then. Ke Ai, Gu Niang, Xiao Jie, Ai Qing, Mei Li and Hao Shuang - all their names flowed back to her mind.

“Welcome back, our Exalted Guest, Lady Laurien - may these Servants be of aid?”

”Yes, indeed… It’s been far too long.” Laurien said as she let her silken gown fall to the floor. ”It’s good to see you again, my friends.” Laurien said as she settled down into the water.

“It has indeed been far too long,” Ke Ai agreed. “Has our Exalted Guest been well over the past years?” The ladies surrounded her in the water and began to scrub her skin with arousingly textured towels. Ke Ai herself sat herself down by Laurien’s head and began to rub soaps and oils into her long hair. Mei Li momentarily left her post by Laurien’s left arm to fetch her a tall cup of wine.

Laurien closed her eyes as she reveled in the sensations. ”I’ve been fairly well, how about all of you?” Laurien cooed.

“Life here is perfect, my Lady,” Ke Ai assured and tugged out a knot of hair. “None of us want for anything, so life goes on in its merry way.” She paused. “It is quite a crowd you’ve brought along, isn’t it?”

”It is, but they wanted this, you know. Who knew that the story of my time here would have been so influential and they’ve taken to it already.” Laurien said, opening her eyes to take a sip of wine. She flashed a smile at Mei Li as she did.

“You humble us, my Lady,” Ke Ai giggled. “To think that you would tell stories about us that would inspire so many to visit. Did they seem to be enjoying themselves up there?”

”You, and his Lordship’s hospitality, was my inspiration, after all. But yes, they did seem to be enjoying themselves, if not just a bit too much. But can you blame them? His Holiness is a gift to this world, and he is very kind.” Laurien said, taking another sip as she sank lower into the water.

“His Lordship would no doubt be grateful to hear that,” Ke Ai assured. There then was a knock on the door. Ke Ai and the other girls looked up, then at one another with slight confusion. Hao Shuang stepped out of the bath and wrapped herself in her uniform gi before shuffling swiftly over to the door. She opened it and exchanged whispering words with someone on the other side, but there came an undoubtable identification in the form of a familiar voice, “Laaaaaaaaaaaaaaaauuurieeeeen!” Polyastera called from the other side of the door.

Laurien winced at the girls voice. Was she that gone already from just a few cups? Laurien sighed and pushed herself up and over to the door, caring not that she got water over everything. She folded her arms against her chest. ”Yes Polly?” Laurien said as she gestured for the door to be opened.

Outside was a small horde of Nebulites, lead by a messily dressed Polyastera. They all eyed Laurien with varying degrees of focus and collectively began to cheer and praise her. Polyastera let out a gross burp and clumsily wrapped her arms around Laurien’s back. “Yooo jus’ leftus, baaaabe… How could’oo…” The other Nebulites around stormed into the bathhouse, clothes flying everywhere. The six Servants in the bath began to simulate a cold sweat.

Laurien frowned at the sight, growing irritated that her bath had been ruined. She turned around and caught Polyastera by her shoulders. ”I needed a bath, a proper bath by these lovely servants. These are the same ones that washed me on my first stay here and now,” she looked at the mass of bodies in the tub, water overflowing. ”And now you can enjoy it as well. But first.” Laurien let go of Poly and moved her to the side gently. The tall Nebulite then clapped her hand and shouted, ”Behave yourselves in this tub, or I will throw you off this ship myself!” before turning back to Polly and holding out her hand, ”Come sit by me.”

The Nebulites drunkenly obeyed to the best of their abilities, some snailing their way back out of the tub to wait their turn, others making their way to the various chairs and benches around the room to relax with fruits, nuts, pastries and much, much more wine. In through the door came a number of additional servants dressed in the bathhouse gis, donning strained smiles hiding stressed frowns. Polly clung to Laurien’s arm like an anchor and struggled with walking as the tall heroine brought her to the tub.

“Issho hot in heeeere,” she complained.
”Well you are wearing clothes silly.” Laurien said as they stood at the edge of the tub. She flashed a sympathetic smile to Ke Ai and the other Servant girls before turning back to look at Polly.

“Oooooh,” Polyastera realised and tried to wiggle herself out of her cumbersome robes. She plucked fruitlessly at the knot holding together her waistband. A servant hurried over, undid the knot for her and gathered the robes in the span of less than half a minute. Polyastera grunted her appreciation and nearly collapsed into the water, thankfully landing on top of two other Nebulites and pushing them underwater instead. She gathered herself and let out a satisfied sigh at the water’s temperature at the same time as the two other Nebulites gasped for air. A wine cup entered Polyastera’s hand and while completely ignoring the complaints peppering her from the two, she leaned in against Laurien’s chest and sighed.

“I’m sho happy, babe… I wuv you…”

Laurien put an arm around Polly’s waist and pulled her closer. ”Aw, I love you too.” she said amused. ”Now, not to play mother, but sip dear, sip the wine. It’s better that way.”

“You’d make uh good mozzer,” Polly replied sluggishly and took another generous ‘sip’ of wine. “Y’know, Iwannanamemydaughter… Laurien… After yooooo.” She smiled stupidly, though there was a genuine sheen of affection in her eyes.

Laurien tilted her head in surprise as she looked Polly in the eyes. The little woman was surprisingly being genuine. It was enough to melt her heart a little. Laurien squeezed her tightly and said, ”Oh Polly, that’s far too kind. A little Laurien, how adorable she would be, and how spoiled.” Laurien flashed a giddy smile.

“Just like usssss!” Polly giggled and looked up with a smack of her lips. “We gonna have the biggest palace EVER, ‘n like a billions of servantsh!”

Ke Ai, who had sat herself down next to Laurien again and was doing her best to bathe her despite the crowdy pool, giggled politely. “It would be an honour,” she replied in a mandatory manner.

“Every day, every night - jusht like thish! Oh, wouldn’ that be amazhing, Lau-Lau?!”

”Yes dear one. It would be wonderful, beyond our wildest dreams.” Laurien said happily as she leaned into Polly, letting Ke Ai work on her neck and upper back. She took another sip of her wine before giving a small kiss upon Polly’s forehead.

Polyastera ducked up at the last second and made it a kiss on the lips instead. Drunkenly, she bit her lip playfully. “I--I reckon… I reckon I will neeeed… Shomeone to share my queenshize bed wiff.” He raised her cup into the air and shouted, “ANY VOLUNTEERSH?!”

The closest ones all shouted their willingness; from the back of the room, however, came a quiet, “what’d she say?!”

Laurien bit her lip after the kiss, before saying, ”I think you already know the answer to your question.” her voice echoing playfully.

“You make me sho happyyyy,” Polly whispered lovingly and took another gulp of wine. “When I am (urp!), am queen, Laurry --” she took another sip. “-- you will be my… My… Wossname…”

“Concubine?” Ke Ai offered helpfully.

“Whassat?” Polly asked with an inebriated frown.

“Essentially, it is another wife in addition to the one you have, my Lady,” Ke Ai said and gave the room a scan with a frown even she couldn’t hide. “... Though this servant reckons the concept of marriage is a little different to your kind.”

“Whass marridge, Laurry?” Polyastera asked.

”Hmm, true, you wouldn’t really know what marriage is. Take… Take Orvus and Rowan for an example. They are a married couple, a man and a woman, but it can be a man and man or a woman and a woman. They swear to be eachothers and no one else. I’ll explain in detail when you are sober.” Laurien said with a laugh.

“Pffffffffffffft,” Polyastera blurted out with some aggressive spittle. “Who’d wanna shtop at jussh one?! Marridge ish DUMB!” The others who had been listening raised their glasses and cheered along.

Laurien raised her eyebrow before snickering as she toasted. They were after her own heart, the little Nebulites. ”Love you who want to love, I say.” she whispered to Polly.

“Preciselicioush,” Polly replied and kissed Laurien again.



The bathhouse party had continued its debauchery. It was not the only one, as the Nebulites had made messes of the feast hall, the deck and a good chunk of the bedrooms. Heliopolis had even had the chance to rise before the celebrations truly ended. Littered almost like corpses, hungover Nebulites laid spread throughout the various rooms of the great ship. Nervous, traumatised servants diligently did their best to replace millenium old broken furniture and undo the various damages done to priceless paintings and artifacts. The bathhouse had eventually been evacuated after one who had had too much had thought the great tub was a vomit bucket. It would take months for the holy vessel to recover.

The guests, on the other hand, were extremely satisfied. The breakfast table, though attended by measly half of the guests and a measly quarters of those being able to eat, had a warm, chucklesome mood about it. Polly had her forehead on the tabletop, droning in agony as her fork blindly tried to stab at some eggs.

Laurien ate her fill, only stopping to when she noticed Polly. ”You know, eating helps dear.” she said digging into some bacon. Laurien was satisfied with how things had turned out but at the same time, was a bit disappointed. The Nebulites had done a very good job at destroying the place, and she felt pity towards the servants who would have to clean up after them. Though, it was their job…

“Dunwannaaaa…” Polyastera muttered to the floor. Her fork stabbed a tomato and the little fruit spat some wet seeds at her hair.

Laurien smirked. ”Suit yourself then, you won’t have another feast like this for many, many years. If at all.” she said looking over to where Cassie was talking and eating next to Pallason. Titanon lovingly nursed a terribly hungover Philia and slowly fed her some eggs from a spoon.

Polyastera droned some more. Over time, more and more Nebulites seemed to find their way to the breakfast table. The enthusiasm of yesterday had noticeably deflated, but weak smiles and ravenous eyes on most faces showed that, if they ever got such an opportunity again, they would likely kill to earn it. A Servant came to Polyastera and Laurien with a neatly folded and sealed piece of paper. The seal was of red wax, the stamp on it spelling out the two characters of Shengshi’s name.

“Our Esteemed Guests, Laurien and Polyastera - His Lordship requests an audience at Your earliest convenience.”

Polyastera grabbed at the air for the envelope and the Servant dutifully placed it into her hand before leaving with a bow. Polyastera handed it to Laurien and mumbled, “Could you read it, dear?”

”His Lordship requests an audience with the both of us.” Laurien said, placing the card on the table in front of her. She grabbed a towel and dabbed the corners of her mouth before placing it down as well. Then she stood up and said, ”Come, no use in keeping him waiting. You do have a deal to negotiate, after all.” Laurien outstretched her hand to Polly.

Reluctantly, Polyastera took it and wobbled to her feet. She pulled her messy robe back over her shoulder and followed Laurien towards the stairs up. On the way, Servants deftly cleaned them up and added necessary cosmetics to the best of their ability without directly obstructing the two. The trip up the tower was long, though, and by the time they reached the golden, dragon-flanked gates of Shengshi’s quarters, both of them looked almost presentable.

The doors swung open slowly, followed by the deep, oily voice saying, “Come in. I am on the veranda outside.” A few harp chords followed lazily.

The two entered the room, and it was much the same as it had been the last time she had been there. A simple plain, but it worked. She guided Polly through to the veranda wherein Laurien kowtowed to Shengshi, prompting Polyastera to do the same. ”Greetings your Lordship, it is good to see you again. I apologize for not coming to see you yesterday, but I required a bath and then it… well… I apologize.” Laurien said sincerely.

The snake took a while to answer, Polyastera looking up impatiently between the harp chords. Eventually, the snake said, “There is nothing to apologise for, my dear. Celebrations do have a habit of going overboard.”

”it is good to see you again, your lordship.” Laurien said happily.

“Likewise,” came a curt response. The snake turned away from his guzheng and smiled at the two. “I trust you enjoyed yourselves, then?”

“Oh, so much,” Polyastera insisted. “Regarding the deal--”

The snake held up a hand. “All in good time, young Polyastera. Laurien, did you, too, enjoy yourself?”

”Yes, it was delightful as always your Lordship. I am grateful that my people were able to enjoy this as I did.” she said putting a hand on Polly’s shoulder. ”Your Servants did an excellent job, every single one of them and for that I am thankful.”

“Yes, a job, they certainly did. They were diligent and deft, and did their job without so much as a complaint. Still, your people certainly took them by surprise.” He slithered over to the railing with his hands behind his back. “A few came to me in the night pleading for a break. In all the millennia the servants have existed, not once - not once - have they ever asked for a break.” He eyed Polyastera up and down there where she kowtowed. “... I must admit that I am a little less enthusiastic about leaving a group like you to govern yourselves in a kingdom of riches.”

Polyastera gaped and tried to stand up, but a look from Laurien kept her grounded. ”I will admit, they took me by surprise as well. I did not think they would… Revel with so much passion. But, they are new to this world. Can you blame them for wanting to live like this? Or- My father… I don’t think he really knew what he was creating when they were born, but I can assure you, your Lordship, give it time and they will adjust accordingly.” Laurien said, blinking.

“Your father, huh,” the snake thought out loud. He flicked his tongue at the air. “Where is he, if I may ask? I would like to speak to him - apologise for my earlier cold front towards him.”

”He apologizes for not being able to be here to meet with you, your Lordship. He is away, and did not tell me where he was going. So is Arya, unfortunately. She went back to Tendlepog to visit Hermes and Xiaoli.” Laurien said calmly, almost too calmly.

The snake furrowed his brow. “I see. That is a shame.” He gave Laurien a mysterious look and pursed his lips. “I suppose I will have to tell him next time, then. Now, yes, regarding these Nebulites’ free rule of a state on the Dragon’s Foot…” He gave Polyastera a patronising stare. The Nebulite caved a little, sheepishly looking for other things to lock her eyes on. “Will you vouch for them, then, Laurien?”

”Oh yes, I think they can build a wonderful home.” Laurien said, relieved to be changing the subject.

The snake’s eyes flicked between the two. “Young Polyastera. I will offer you a deal: I will take your people to the Taipang delta on the Dragon’s Foot. The land there is ripe and fertile; the water is fresh and clean; the fish and birds are plentiful - it will be a perfect home for your people.”

Polyastera gaped and beamed with eager euphoria between Laurien and the snake. “Oh, that sounds fantastic! How can I begin to--”

“Hold on, my dear,” the snake held up a hand. “I was not quite finished.”

Polyastera deflated and looked to Laurien for support. Laurien moved closer to Polyastera and hung her arms over the smaller girl’s shoulders, bending down to say, ”Patience, my love. A Queen needs such a skill, after all.” before standing back up and placing both of her hands on Polly’s shoulders. She gave her a small massage, before returning her gaze to Shengshi. ”Please continue, your Lordship. Polyastera is just a little excited over everything.”

“Yes, that much is evident,” the snake said plainly. “I have three demands - no more, no fewer. One of them will be completed today; another within ten years; a third will never truly be completed, but will be satisfied once a generation.”
“What are His Lordships terms?” Polyastera asked with the most humble tone she could manage.

The snake raised one finger. “By dusk today, I demand that you remove any from the ship who are not committed to you and your cause.”

The snake raised a second finger. “By the tenth year, starting today, your will have constructed a temple to me, and it shall be the grandest building in your city, rivalled not even by your royal palace.”

Polyastera blinked. “W-within ten yea--”

“Within ten years,” the snake confirmed sternly and raised a third finger. “The royal family, starting today and continuing as long as there is a Nebulite kingdom upon the Dragon’s Foot, will take its firstborn to me upon the child’s fifteenth birthday. From that moment, the child shall live out its days in my service, or wherever else I choose to send it.”

He lowered the three fingers and eyed the two. “Are these demands reasonable?”

Laurien mulled it over, the only thing that truly bothered her was building the temple, but Ohannakeloi did bless the Nebulites with knowledge on masonry. They’d be able to do it, she was sure of it, no matter what. It would also be easy to get rid of those that were not fully committed. As for the last request… Well, Laurien wasn’t going to be the Queen, now was she?

”I find these terms acceptable, how about you Polyastera?” she asked.

“As do I,” Polyastera said as though she hadn’t truly fathomed the consequences of her actions.

”Then we accept these terms, your Lordship.” Laurien said, smiling warmly.

The snake nodded. “So be it.” He looked at Polyastera. “I will be expecting you to make due on the third promise fifteen years from now.”

Polyastera frowned, then blinked and laid her hand on her abdomen. The snake nodded. “Congratulations,” he said with a smile. “Now I would like you to start making good on the first promise.” He went back to his harp and started plucking at the strings. “You may begin.”

Laurien kowtowed again, after looking at Poly with a smile, she had no idea the Queen to be was with child. Laurien then said, ”It shall be done, your Lordship.”

Polyastera followed her gesture. “It shall be done, Your Lordship,” she echoed and together, the two went back inside and descended the tower. The first agenda on the list was clear.

Find those who were committed to the cause;
Do away with the rest.



In Divinus: The God RP, Mk. III. Finished in Record Time™! → 5 yrs ago Forum: Advanced Roleplay


&

Laurien




Orvus cleared the trees as he quickly approached the black beach, where long ago Katharsos had landed. Much like before, Laurien was there too. The tall woman wore tight fitting clothes of white, that drifted in the slight breeze as she watched him approach with a blank face. Her hair was undone and also drifting in the slight, salty breeze. Orvus landed in front of her a few feet away, his impact silent as always.

”Hello father.” Laurien spoke, her voice calm and collected. ”Thank you for coming. I know it probably wasn’t an easy decision after bringing the Dragonborn here.”

His eyes frowned. ”Likewise daughter, thank you for wanting to speak with me. I know… Things haven’t been easy ever since-” Laurien held up a hand.

”I’d rather not talk about her, if you wouldn’t mind.” she said coldly.

”I… Of course, Laurien. What’s this about then? How did you know the Dragonborn were here?” he asked, folding his arms in anticipation. Her tone did not go unnoticed by the god.

”The Nebulites like to tell me things, they find me easier to talk to than most. As for why we’re here…” she breathed in deeply before exhaling. ”I’ve made a deal with Shengshi, and I’ll be going with him when he comes to pick up some Nebulites. Those at the tree specifically.”

Orvus took a step forward but stopped when Laurien began to back away. ”I’m sorry father, but I can’t live here anymore.”

”Laurien… Why would you even want to go with my brother? What did he promise you? Is life here not good enough?” Orvus asked, his voice slightly raised.

”Life is fine here… But many share the same thoughts as I do, we were meant for more than this simple farming life.” she crossed her arms and shifted her weight around. ”His Holiness offers luxury and a place to stay while a deal is drawn out and made. He promised us nothing, because it was the Nebulites idea. They want this, his Lordship is only entertaining the idea.”

”The Nebulites idea? Laurien, who told them about Shengshi? Who told them about his supposed luxury? Was it you, or Arya?” Orvus shook his head, ”I am sorry, but this is about Li’Kalla and Silver isn’t it? Whether you want to talk about it or not. This discussion is long overdue.”

An angry expression flashed across her face for an instant before returning to her impassive look. ”Fine, I won’t lie. It was I who told them about his Lordship and my time aboard his River Palace. As brief as it was, it left an impression. I didn’t think they would want to leave, but the idea sounds nice. It’s far better than here!” she turned her head away from Orvus as she breathed in through her nose.

”Listen to yourself! This is your home, you were born here. You would leave it behind for what Shengshi has to offer?” Orvus inquired.

She looked back at him with tears welling up in her eyes. ”I can’t… I can’t stay here. There’s too many memories. Can’t you understand that? I can barely sleep in my own bed after she came. It’s all so surreal.”

”I do understand. I lost my friend, remember? But seeing what she became, sickened me. Do you think I wanted that? For either of us?” the god sighed.

”You should never have killed her.” Laurien blurted, pointing angrily. ”Better yet, you should have went with her and helped! Maybe then that thing wouldn’t have taken her name.”

”Silver didn’t want me to go with! And I didn’t have a choice in her death! It was either me or K’nell! I wish it didn’t have to be that way, but it was, and it happened. I thought we had already gotten over this, Laurien. Why are having this conversation again? I told you my reasoning, and I told you how sorry I was.” The god said, his eyes narrowing.

”Why? Why! Because it’s still relevant, that’s why! I once said I thought about forgiving you but… How can I? You murdered her, without even telling me, or letting me say goodbye. Then she came and I thought… The fool in me thought she would want me… But I was wrong. Now the only thing I can think about is her words to me and I don’t want to be here. I want to leave this place of memories, before they get ruined even further.” she cried out as tears began to fall.

Orvus’ expression softened in that moment and he began to walk closer to her. ”Laurien… I’m sorry. I’m so, so sorry. Do you think I wanted this to happen to you? How could I have ever thought… No… You are right. I was selfish, believing that I was the only one who needed to say goodbye to Silver. I wronged you my child, and it seems I keep wronging you. But still… That doesn’t mean you can go behind my back and speak to my brother without consulting me first. There are many Nebulites here, and I would have listened to this proposal and I most likely would have agreed to it. But now, I have no choice and I will not take yours away, or theirs. If your mind's made up, then I give you my blessing to leave.” the god said, now standing before his daughter. He placed a hand upon her shoulder and Laurien tensed up, before relaxing slightly.

”I know I’ve said this before, but… It means a lot to me, hearing what you’ve said, Orvus.” she said. ”I apologize for going behind your back, for not speaking to you, for not speaking with Arya… I just needed distance and time to clear my head. And during that time, I made my decision to leave, among others.” she said softly, wiping away a tear.

”All is forgiven, my child.” Orvus said, giving her a hug. Laurien returned it, if slowly. Orvus then pulled away, feeling better about the situation. ”If you are leaving… Then you will need something to protect our people. A promise, long since unfulfilled.” he said, backing away. Laurien looked at him with a faint smile.

Orvus shut his eyes, and tilted his head forward. His strength had long since returned and it was time to bring forth a new blade. One of equal power to Wreanon. He outstretched his hand, and from it, he poured forth his strength into the sand below. There was a crackling sound, and the air began to taste metallic.

Black sand began to flow towards a shape rising from the sand, which grew taller in form and stature. Black lightning began to arc from the blade, as the raw power accumulated together. The sword rose further, each particle of orvium coming together for a new, greater purpose. Orvus grasped the ebony hilt, a gem of black crystal sat upon the pommel, and the twisting hilt rose to meet an exquisite guard. The blade was long, stained black by the orvium and razor sharp on either side as it ran to meet the pointed tip. It was long, far longer than Wreanon as it floated to meet Laurien. Orvus felt drained from the endeavor, far more than he had before when creating Wreanon.

Then the sword spoke, it’s disembodied voice was harsh and grating. “Who am I to be bonded with, creator? This fleshy thing?” The sword spun as if looking at Laurien.

”Fleshy thing?” she said.

”Laurien, pay no mention to that. This is Aaldir, and he is to be bonded with you. Grasp it, and be worthy.” Orvus said.

Laurien did so without hesitation, even a little enthusiastically as she grasped the handle. A flash of all consuming darkness enveloped Laurien, before coalescing itself around her in the form of armor. It was form fitting like Arya’s, but Aaldir’s armor did not glow. Instead, it seemed to absorb light, and reflected nothing, not even sunlight. A helmet of jagged horns encased Laurien’s head as well, before it vanished to reveal the smiling face of his daughter.

”How does it feel?” Orvus asked, inspecting her.

”Marvelous! So this is what Arya felt! Truly, I feel wonderful, better than I have in such a long time.” she said laughing.

Orvus cocked his head, her laughter seemed off somehow but he shrugged it off towards excitement. It was good to see her smile again. Laurien held Aaldir high above her head and looked it over, then at her armored hand. She then looked back at Orvus and let the sword float as she opened her arms in an embrace.

She held him tightly for a moment before whispering, ”Thank you Orvus, for everything you’ve done. I’ll always remember you.” The last part caught Orvus off guard and why had she called him by his name?

”You’re welcome Laurien, but what do you me-” but before he could finish his sentence, he froze. He felt a presence on his stomach. When had Laurien moved her hand there? Laurien then pulled away, but left her right hand upon his shoulder. He looked down to see Aaldir, halfway embedded in his stomach. His eyes went wide as he looked back to see Laurien’s face, contorted in anger and pain.

”For Silver.” she gritted through her teeth, before plunging Aaldir’s blade all the way through.



She had done it, Orvus had believed every word she had said to him. Every lie, but was it all a lie? It no longer mattered. As Orvus began to fall backwards, she let Aaldir slip out on his own. It had been far easier than she thought it would be. And the final hug, there was no other time to strike. Having learned from Arya, she had commanded the sword to enter her hand, and it had done so. The sword was less than happy with her, but his whispers for ichor did not leave her mind. She felt powerful, far more powerful than she had ever been. She walked over to the side of the god, as he stared up at her.

”It’s painful, isn’t it? Like your heart being ripped to pieces, but I guess in your case, your stomach.” she crouched down, looking as his ichor began to pool underneath him. The sight was sickening to say the least, and a part of herself hated what she had done, but that side was quickly fleeting. ”You know, I didn’t want to do this. I didn’t, but you left me no choice. You killed Silver, and I had to avenge her. You took her from me, so I’m taking you, from everyone. That seems fair, doesn’t it.” she said, crying.
”L-Laurien…” the god said weakly.

”Why’d you make me do it!” she screamed at him, suddenly standing up. ”You were my father, and I loved you! I did! But you loved Arya, Silver, Rowan and the twins so much more than me! Why? Why wasn’t I good enough? I was just your errand girl! You only saved me from Vrog so I could go and find Arya, for you! You were too cowardly to even do that, and you didn’t even kill that monster! If it had attacked Arya, would you have killed it then? Huh?” she said angrily, waiting for an answer. ”Answer me!”

The god began to shake slightly as he looked to the side and away from Laurien, before looking back up at her. ”L-Laurien…” he repeated.

She squeezed her eyes shut, trying to gain some amount of composure. A thousand different things were going on in her mind, and it was so hard to focus on any one of them besides what lay before her. It was time to finish it. She grasped Aaldir with both hands and held the sword, pointing down, over Orvus’ heart.

”I’m sorry, but this is the only way I can get what I want.” she said in a shakey voice, before taking a deep breath and closing her eyes.

”N-no.” the god said, prompting Laurien to open her eyes. Below her, Orvus’ body shaking faster and faster. And then he stopped, and then he exploded.

The blast sent her flying backwards in the air. She barely had time to stop herself from spinning before she crashed into a tree. The blow surprisingly, didn’t hurt in the slightest, but it did not the wind out of her. She sat up, leaning herself against a tree as she looked down to where Orvus was. Her eyes went wide with horror.

She watched as an arm of shadow erupt from the wound, its clawed hand latching itself onto the beach as it pulled. Another hand erupted adjacent to the first, and planted itself on the other side of Orvus. Both worked simultaneously, pulling itself out from the wound as the god convulsed quietly. There was a terrible ripping sound that shattered the air, prompting Laurien to cover her ears as she watched the thing emerge fully. Then it grew in size, dwarfing even her height. It’s shadowy amass then rippled with scarlet as the life around it wilted and died. The thing began to make noise, a deep huffing sound at first, before she began to understand that it was laughing. It spoke then, it’s voice filling the air and somehow turning everything empty, soulless.

”You forgot your purpose.” the thing said, lifting Orvus up and slamming him on the ground, over and over again until there was a crater. Laurien flinched each and every time as the thing laughed. When the sand at last settled, she saw the thing with a limp Orvus in it’s hand and the voice continued, ”So many mistakes to correct, Orvus. Mistakes that should never have been made. First, I think I’ll start with your pretend family.” it’s hollow laugh rang out again, sending shivers down Laurien’s spine. Orvus flung his fists weakly at the creature, but didn’t connect with anything. ”That was the moment it all went wrong.” it said again.

Laurien felt her heart skip a beat and began to stand up, she couldn’t let that thing hurt others. That was out of the question. ”Ah, and then there’s you.” the voice said, snapping it’s attention to her as it discarded Orvus like a ragdoll over its shoulder. It then made its way to her, in large steps, stopping a short distance away. Before her, a line of plants died but spread no further.

”Is it you I have to thank for freeing me from that torment?” the thing said, leaning in closer. She instantly felt sick and took a step back as more plants died in front of her. ”Ah, of course it was. I smell it on you, the greed, the desire. You wanted this, didn’t you? Now you have it. I am Abraxas, girl, the personification of what Orvus forgot and I have you to thank. I shall grant you three requests, as a worthy reward. I am anything but generous.” Laurien stiffened, for even though the smoky face in front of her was indecipherable, she had a feeling Abraxas was smiling.

Laurien took a deep breath and tightened her grip on Aaldir. ”And they can be anything?”

”Yes.” it said with rumbling anger. Laurien suddenly felt very small, but she stood tall.

”Then for my first request, I forbid you from harming anyone upon the Eye of Desolation.” she said cooly. The Avatar stiffened, and rumbled loudly.

Then with a burst of frightening speed Abraxas shot towards her, and went to hit her, but before he did, he stopped but a fraction away from her face. Wind rushed behind her as she froze. Then the avatar began to laugh again. ”Very well. Anything else?”

Laurien took a quick breath, and gulped as she backed away, clearing from the aura. ”Keep what happened here, and my involvement a secret.”

”A secret? Is the little hero afraid she might be found out?” the avatar laughed again. ”Very well, I shall keep your secret. Your last request?” Abraxas whispered.

”I… I don’t have another right now.” she said.

”Good. Until we next meet, little hero.” Abraxas began to turn away, but Laurien stepped forward and blurted, ”What are you going to do with Orvus?”

”Not to worry about your creator. I shall keep him, very, very quiet. It is what you wanted after all.” the thing said without looking at her. It then flew across the ground like fog and arrived where Orvus had been discarded. It picked up the unconscious god and without looking back, took off, straight up into the sky with frightening speed.

Laurien then fell to her knees and began to cry again. That was not what she had planned, not at all. Orvus was supposed to die, she was supposed to become a god. Instead, something far worse than Orvus had been let into the world. And it was her fault. One, she realized, she would have to live with. She took a deep breath, and composed herself. She had to tell the others that Orvus had left. Another lie, but she was good at lying, wasn’t she?



There was a splitting pain in his chest, no, his entire body. He burned, and ached, and he was so tired. Through his daze he knew two things. One, he was being dragged somewhere, and two, Laurien had stabbed him. Why had she done that? Had he failed her so specaturaly that her only course of action was… Was to kill him?

He tried to move anything, but all he could do was open his eyes. He blinked as they focused and Orvus did not like what he saw. He was in the valley of the Mar Tree. How did he- the avatar. The thought brought him panic. How could he spawn such a hateful thing? He had felt it grow in strength the moment Laurien had removed Aaldir. It had burst from his wound, free at last. It was everything he had buried and now it was free.

The valley walls became more and more open as they neared the Tree. He fought sleep, he had to escape or cry out or do anything, but his strength was depleted. He was suddenly dropped, and then a large, crushing hand lifted him up. It brought him to it’s massive face of smoke and scarlet, the aura of desolation kissing his flesh.

”The Tree will bloom again, but first…” the thing whispered vehemently. Orvus then felt his body explode in more pain as he was thrust backwards. His head flopped down and he was able to see several branches sticking out from his divine flesh, more of his ichor beginning to flow. He wanted to scream, he wanted to speak, but he was far to weak for any of those things. He could hardly keep his head up.

”There we are… Here is where you will rot for a time, constantly drained of the substance that keeps you alive. A prison of your own making. Sleep now, and know that Galbar shall be placed into my hands. Sleep.” the avatar said, before his laughter droned on into the silence of nothing.





In Divinus: The God RP, Mk. III. Finished in Record Time™! → 5 yrs ago Forum: Advanced Roleplay
Laurien


Moments after Li’Kalla came. Weeks before she prays to Shengshi



She ran through the jungle, tears blurring her vision as she scowled. Orvus called after her, but she did not look back, she didn’t want to. She had been a fool, a lovestricken fool. To believe that Silver would somehow live on in Li’Kalla… Then to meet that… Thing.

She had been an idiot. A hopeless romantic. She should have known better.For Silver was truly dead and gone, and the pain of her loss had been renewed tenfold. She growled, running faster, the foliage becoming a blur.

She had grown to love Silver, short as her time had been with her, and she simply couldn’t get the little redhead out of her heart. She had thought about it for so many years, and had felt so much confusion, anger, and guilt.

Guilt.

She had promised she would return to her, and Orvus had said she would be waiting for her when she returned home. He had sounded so sure of himself, but the only thing that awaited her when she arrived, was a grave. And home became just a word. She thought she could handle it, but every little thing in that house, was a constant reminder of what was and would be no more.

But perhaps what hurt most of all, was the complete and utter rejection she received from Li’Kalla. Laurien had seen the goddess waver, there was recognition there of the name Chickadee, and yet… She had been turned down. She was no stranger to rejection, yet Li’s words stung worse than any other time. It wasn’t right to be with a woman? There was no point? That was not what she had expected to hear, and it only drove her crazy. She wanted her so badly, for love, to apologize for failing her, and to be together again. But Li’Kalla was not Silver, and that message had been conveyed perfectly. She had left her mark.

Then there was her father. The one who had willingly been the architect of her pain. She who had willingly left to find Arya, to protect her, to bring her home, who watched her for years- what did she get in return? Nothing but broken promises and false dreams.

No. That wasn’t right, was it? She had gotten to be a sister to Arya. She had a family. She had a people. Then why did she want more? Were those not good enough? Was it fair to blame Arya?

She slowed down her pace.
Her little- Well older sister. She loved Arya, she did, perhaps more than anyone else in the world. But she was so jealous of Arya. Her sister was loved by so many others. She was always first for everything, and on many occasion, Laurien was second best and nothing that she wanted ever seemed to matter. It always had something to do with Arya first. She who had been given Wreanon, she who Orvus cared more for-

So lost in thought was she, that Laurien exploded out of the forest, almost colliding with a group of Nebulites. Quickly she shifted her momentum, and rolled to the side before crashing into them. She laid there in a daze for a moment, looking up at the canopy before a red head looked down on her. Her eyes widened and her heart skipped a beat as she looked upon the familiar figure. ”S-Silver?” she said longingly, but she only saw what she wanted to see. Her eyes focused with a blink, and staring down at her was a Nebulite of flaming hair, and bright white eyes. She was joined by two more females, one of black hair and slim features and one of green hair that sparkled. They all looked concerned.

“L-Laurien are you alright?” asked the flaming head.

She opened her mouth to say no, but was betrayed by her own voice. ”Fine dears, just got carried away running is all.” she said with a fake smile. They all smiled back unaware.

Good.

Groggily she got up, and gazed down at them. ”And who might you three be?” she asked them as she fixed her hair, moving it away from her eyes.

The flame head spoke first, her voice oozing confidence. “You can call me Cassieopoeia.”

“My name is Vera.” The black haired one said, calm and collected.

“And I am Amphitrite!” the green haired one said enthusiastically.

Laurien nodded to each of them, her smile, infectious. ”It’s a pleasure my dears. So, what are you three doing out here all by yourselves?” Laurien asked, looking around. They were off the beaten path, in a small clearing. Through the trees she could see the Marble Star in the distance.

“We were out exploring, is that okay? It was Cassieopoeia’s idea.” Amphitrite said, while Vera nodded. Cassieopoeia in the meantime gritted her teeth as she looked daggers into the other two. Laurien found that amusing. Then Cassieopoeia turned to look at her and said, “Yes, it was my idea, but they came along willingly. We weren’t going to go far.” Laurien took a closer look at this Flameheaded girl and found that she liked what she saw.

She forced herself to giggle, and said, ”Girls, girls. No one cares if you explore, certainly not me. But a word of advice. If you ever do get into trouble for something, don’t throw another to the wolf so easily.” she winked.

Vera and Amphitrite looked at each other and then to the ground. Cassieopoeia held her head high, and that was when Laurien caressed her cheek. It was hard to tell if she blushed or not, but the slight quivering of her lips was enough for Laurien.

”You’ll come with me, Cassie.” she stated warmly, with her best smile.

Cassie blinked rapidly, and said, “And what if I don’t want to go with you?”

For once, Laurien hesitated. She had been denied before, and had graciously admitted defeat. But now something told her to press her advantage. It was easy to read that Cassie knew not what she wanted, but Laurien could show her. She would not be denied, not this time. She needed a distraction and badly.

She cocked her head to the side. ”You can leave of course, but I’ll be very sad. Perhaps Vera or Amphitrite would cheer me up in your absence?” she said, looking to the two of them. There was an eagerness in their eyes, but Laurien turned back to Cassie, and she found the same eager eyes waiting.

“Well, in that case, I’ll go with you.” Cassie said quickly.

Laurien took her hand gently. ”I’m glad.” she said in a sweet voice. She liked getting what she wanted and after all, she needed the distraction.



Much later in the night, Laurien held Cassie a top her, stroking the girl’s thick head of hair while they laid on her bed. The girl slept with a smile on her face, but Laurien did not pay attention. Instead, she stared up at the ceiling, feeling satisfied with herself, but it was quickly dispersing. She wanted to live this way endlessly, to stave off the empty feeling. To forget in excess. A life of luxury and desire, anytime she wanted, free of worry and doubt. Love, love all the time.

Her thoughts suddenly turned back to what Li’Kalla had expressed earlier in the day. That she could not love another of the same sex. She found herself disagreeing with that statement, for the proof was in front of her. There was no sense in shackling oneself to such limitations, when the world had so much more to offer. Anything could be loved. Well, perhaps not everything, but the vast majority that stood on two legs.

Even gods.

She had done that with Silver, merely a fragment of a god, but still held divinity. That had to count for something, right? She let out a soft sigh. She missed that little red head, more than anything. If only her father hadn’t murdered her, for apparently, no reason whatsoever. She had thought about forgiving him once, but after this, how could she?

He hadn’t meant for any of it to happen, she had to tell herself, but… it still didn’t hurt any less. He should have made sure that Li'Kalla had gotten fixed properly, maybe then Silver would have endured within her. He should have done a lot of things during those years...

She felt betrayed, and wronged, and so, so angry the more she thought about it. She wanted to lash out, to let loose and to cause Orvus pain, just like she had gone through. She no longer felt so ashamed about thinking such ways and it dawned upon her. The only person you could really count on in life, was yourself. If you wanted something then why not just take it?

No, she couldn't think like that entirely, for actions had consequences and she was merely a mortal… Unless...

The thought was dark and twisted, but it found a spot within her mind and settled right in. To get what she wanted, what she really wanted, meant she needed power. She sat up, cradling Cassie's sleeping form like a doll. The girl slept through the shift, but it wasn’t like Laurien was paying any attention to her anymore. Instead, Laurien’s eyes went wide with realization. To live deliciously, meant one had to sacrifice. To live without longing, one needed to indulge in pleasure. It was the only way to make wrongs, right. Silver would have wanted her to live on with passion.

And as a wolfish grin etched itself onto her face, Laurien knew what she needed to do.


In Divinus: The God RP, Mk. III. Finished in Record Time™! → 5 yrs ago Forum: Advanced Roleplay




Not a week later, the two Dragonborn, being carried like toddlers by Orvus and with only minimal keepsakes, flew over the last leg of the journey. It hadn’t been an easy decision, and much had to be left behind, but for Kellin’s sake the two of them went willingly. Orvus had assured them they would be safe in flight, and from the moment they left the ground the two could not stop thinking about flying. But the novelty wore off after the second day. It was not at all enjoyable to be carried as they flew. The god was strangely quiet during the flight, but told them about the Eye and its inhabitants, the Nebulites. And of his family. A certain sort of pang only a mother could know, went through Minerva’s heart at the mentioning of Ava, Arya, Laurien and Lily. His girls, but when Orvus himself opened up about the loss of his own baby, she shared only sympathy, and so too did Michallis.

The trip was mostly ocean, for Orvus preferred to fly over the vast blue waters. They did stop a couple times however, to stretch their legs, to sleep and to eat. If it all the God was annoyed by this, he did not say. Often times, he let them be until they continued on. As they neared closer, he became far more talkative, telling them about many different things and about the world and about the people who inhabited the Eye along with him. These Nebulites and Vallamir, who sounded exotic. What would they be like, she wondered?

Everything that the god spoke of, was refreshing to hear, having been isolated for so long and anticipation grew in her heart.

”...And that was how the Eye was born. Many, many ages before you two were alive, before most things were alive actually.” Orvus said mystically.

Minerva hardly knew what to think about that. The magnitude of such words was not lost upon her and in that moment she felt very small.

They then flew in silence for a time, small black dots appearing on the horizon. It was the Eye, she was sure of it.

The god then cleared his throat. ”I may not have been entirely honest with the both of you, but I am running out of options. You see, Laurien doesn’t actually know I’m bringing you. I apologize for my lie, but had I known you would have come easily, I would have told you the truth.”

Minerva looked to Michallis, both their brows furrowing at the confession. Laurien didn’t know?

”What are you talking about, Orvus? Why would you lie to us?” Michallis asked, his voice aggravated.

Orvus sighed, ”It’s too long a story to tell, and not even I know how deep it goes. Laurien is upset with me… So I thought I would bring her… Friends.”

”You brought us here as a gift!” Michallis shouted. ”You have to be kidding me, I’ve never even met this Laurien before. What am I supposed to do?”

”Why is she upset?” Minerva asked, frowning.

”There was a person she cared for deeply… She’s now felt the loss of losing that person twice, and blames me for it. Rightfully so. I am sorry I did not tell you sooner.”

”And he means to use us as a means to talk to her, Minerva. Come on! This isn’t right, and you know it.” Michallis huffed.

Minerva pursed her lips, ”Michallis, relax.” she sighed, turning to look at her partner. ”Laurien once helped me, and offered advice. So, we can return the favor but…” she looked forward. ”What do we get out of it?”

Michallis nodded his head, and looked at Orvus expectantly. ”I will provide shelter, food, clothing, and community. If you require anything else, simply ask.”

”I want to be able to hunt, whenever I want. Maybe a weapon or two.” Michallis said. Minerva gave him a smile at that.

”That can be done. Minerva?” Orvus asked. She thought for a moment and then said, ”I’ll let you know what I require when I can think of something.”

”Very well.” was all he said and before they knew it, they had arrived.



A crowd of tall, starry beings waited for them as they descended. They all came in a variety of different colors and the two dragonborn were mesmerized by the assortment. They landed before the crowd, and as soon as they did, two small children came running from the crowd, and ran right into Orvus’ waiting arms.

“Dad! You’re home! I missed you.” the starry one said.
“I missed you too!” the non-starry one said.

”Oh girls,” Orvus said, suddenly changing forms into a creature that vaguely resembled themselves, save for the lack of scales, feet, tails, ears, and… Well, the differences were noticeable. ”I’ve missed you too! Say hello to Michallis and Minerva, they are guests here.” and the two girls turned to them and waved.

“Wow! You guys have tails!” the more enthusiastic one said.

“H-Hello!” the one other one said, standing behind Orvus’ leg.

”Michallis, Minerva. This one is Lily,” he said pointing to the child that had gotten behind them to look at their tails. ”And this shy one, is Ava.”

Minerva couldn’t help but smile, both the feelings of joy and loss tugged at each other as she watched the two. ”Hello little starry ones!” she said, spinning her tail over Lily’s head.

Michallis nodded approvingly, with a soft smile.

Another figure, one that resembled the new Orvus, but female, pushed through the crowd. She was strikingly pretty and had a wide smile on her face as the two embraced each other, parting with a kiss. Minerva cocked her head as she looked at the woman’s pronounced belly. Another pang.

”And this is my wife, Rowan. And this my dear, is Michallis and Minerva, the Dragonborn.” Orvus said proudly.

”It’s a pleasure to meet the both of you.” she said, bending her knees and tipping her head forward. The two shared a look but nodded at the display.

Another figure then descended from the air. She wore something like scales, but pure white and had a very strange looking tool floating next to her. The dragonborn had to do a double take to realize that what they were seeing wasn’t a dream. The new woman’s face had a large smile upon her glowing face.

”So you found them.” she mused.

”Indeed I did. Michallis, Minerva, this is Arya.” he said, as Arya landed before the two Dragonborn. She inspected them and they inspected her before she laughed. ”Welcome to Nebulan, I hope you enjoy it.”

”Thank you, Arya.” Minerva said.
”It’s too bad I’m leaving, otherwise I would show you around. It was nice to meet you, brief as it was. When I get back, we can get to know each other some more.” Arya said, before turning to Orvus and the others. ”I was hoping I’d get to say goodbye before I left. So, girls, listen to your mother. Rowan, Father… I’ll be back. I don’t know how long I’ll be but… You have my word.”

“Bye Arya! Have fun in Pogland!” Lily smiled.

“Bye Arya, I’ll miss you.” Ava said quietly.

”Oh, I’ll miss you too, Ava.” Arya said, placing her hand over her heart as she hugged the two of them.

”Be safe, Arya. I want to see you returned with not a scratch.” Rowan mused, hugging the girl.

”Arya, know that if you need me… Well, you know the rest. Be safe, my daughter. I’m sorry about Laurien.” He said, hugging Arya briefly.

”Don’t worry about… I’ll be fine. I have two Gods watching over me, perhaps even more, after all. Do uh… Do work on that, yeah?” she said, giving Orvus a knowing look. The god said nothing, but the message was received. Arya then lifted off, turning to wave as everyone said goodbye.

The Dragonborn looked up and raised a hand in farewell. Both had no idea what was really going on, besides Arya leaving and furthermore, what was Pogland?

Orvus then turned to the two, and said, ”Come, let’s go fi-” but before he could finish, a fiery headed Nebulite landed before Orvus and his family, then bowed.

“My lord, my lady. I bring news. Laurien wishes to speak to Orvus.”

Orvus took a step forward. ”She wants to speak? Where? About what?” he asked.

“She would not say about what, only that it pertained to the Tree and Shengshi. As for where, she said you would know when I said, ‘Where death touched the land.’ And that was all.”

Without hesitating Orvus said, ”Of course, tell her I shall be there soon.”

“It shall be done, my lord.” the fiery headed one said, before taking off without much of a glance towards the two.

”You’ll have to forgive me for this, my friends. Rowan will take good care of you, I promise that, and when I return we shall talk some more.” Orvus said, changing his form mid sentence. He shared a brief goodbye with Rowan and the girls, then took off.

Rowan watched him leave, then looked at the Dragonborn. ”Well that was exciting. Uh, I’m sure the two of you could use a warm meal and a soft bed. Come on, I’ll show you home.”

Michallis and Minvera looked at each other and then to Rowan. Minerva then said, ”That sounds really nice.”






In Divinus: The God RP, Mk. III. Finished in Record Time™! → 5 yrs ago Forum: Advanced Roleplay
In Search of Luxury


It was midday over the Branch of the World Tree. The many bird species of the Eye sang their thousand songs, supported by the gentle beat of waves on the beaches. A gentle waft of air tugged at the lengths of star-white hair hanging long over the light pink shoulders of Polyastera there where she sat on a small, flat rock underneath the beautiful canopy. Around her were several others of her kind, enjoying the fruits of the forest and the company of each other. It was a beautiful existence, in many ways - a life of peace, joy and pleasure. However, even now, merely days after their creation, an itch felt brave enough to pester her soul, an itch spurred on by the stories of their species’ moulds - specifically one of them.

“Polly? What’re you getting all lost in thought over?” came a voice and Polyastera snapped out of her trance to look one of her dear friends, a midnight blue man named Pallason. She gave him a smug smile and tilted her head to the side.

“Oh, I was just thinking, about Laurien.”

Pallason and two others shuffled a little closer to her and snickered. “Aren’t we all from time to time? What were you thinking about? You’re going to ask her again?”

Polyastera inspected some dirt underneath one of her nails and pursed her lips. “Mmm… Maybe, though that wasn’t what I was thinking about. Do any of you recall that story she told us?”

“Which one?” one of the others, a girl named Philia, asked curiously and brushed her comet-blue hair out of her glowing eyes. It fell right back, covering her jet black forehead.

“The one with that one god, oh, what was his-...” She snapped her fingers as she tried to remember. “Ah, yes, Shengshi - that was it. Yes, the story about him.”

Pallason tugged at his clean-shaved chin. “... Nnnooo, not particularly well--”

“She means the one about his ship, isn’t that right, Polly?” the third voice proposed, one belonging to Titanon, a well-groomed and handsome man with a near metallic sheen to his skin.

“Correct, Titanon,” Polyastera praised and caressed his cheek affectionately. Titanon snapped his teeth at her hand as she pulled it back, inciting an entrancing giggle. “It’s a wonderful story, when you think about it.”

“What’s so special about it?” Pallason replied absent-mindedly as he propped his cheek up on a fist. Polyastera lied down on her stomach and begun twisting a finger in his hair.

“It was just something about the way she described it: An army of people who would do exactly what you want them to do at any time without any sort of backtalk or refusal; food worlds better than the scraps we’re eating here; and I have no idea what this ‘wine’ is, but it sounds heavenly from the way she described it.”

“Well, that ship -is- the house of a god, Polly,” Titanon reasoned. “One shouldn’t expect less than luxury, really.”

“That’s the thing, though,” Polyastera argued. “Our creator has no such house, and from what I’ve personally seen of the world, there are no magnificent feasts nor numerous servants for us to enjoy.”

“Well, what did you expect?” Pallason asked with a scoff. “It’s not like we were born to be kings and queens of this world.”

Polyastera reached out one hand and cupped Pallason’s chin in a somewhat firm grip, lifting his head to face her. She gave him a sly smile, at which the young man blushed. “Oh, my dear Pallason, I wholeheartedly disagree. We are the -children- of Orvus and Ohannakeloi, made in the image of heroines like Arya and Laurien. Our numbers are in the thousands and the world is ours to explore and govern as we see fit. Look.” She floated neatly off the ground and drifted gently forward to kiss Pallason on his somewhat shy lips. She glided upwards slowly and spun around as she gestured in every direction. “I could travel wherever I wish, without anyone telling me otherwise; I can settle myself down wherever I was, without anyone telling me otherwise.”

Pallason rolled his eyes and shook his head. Philia giggled and leaned her head onto Titanon’s shoulder, who simply kept a weak smile. “But what if you stumbled upon someone who tried to tell you otherwise?” Titanon asked. “For the sake of argument, I mean.”

Polyastera lowered herself back to the ground and crossed her legs so that the upper foot nearly kicked Pallason in the face. She ignored his scowl and went back to looking at her nails. “Who knows? This is why I would like to search for this Shengshi.”

“Oh? You think he can help?” Titanon snickered.

“A god whose existence is bathed in luxury? I think he would understand me perfectly.”

“Well, you might get a definite answer. Guess who just showed up.” Titanon thumbed over to the arrival of one particular individual, and Polyastera’s smile was immediately complemented by a ravenous look. She got to her feet, tossed her hair over her shoulders and made her way over with quick steps that seemed to move her whole lower body. She made her way somewhat forcefully through the crowds forming around the woman before her and emerged at the front with a wry smile.

“Hello, Laurien. Welcome back.”

The tall warrioress immediately turned to Polyastera and smiled hungrily. In two steps she was before Polly, and she ran a finger down her right cheek. ”Hello Polly, looking delightful as always. Are you enjoying the tree?” she asked with a knowing smirk. Her hair was up in a loose bun, held together by a bone clip. She wore the simplest of garments, covering her body in white. She wore a leather belt around her waist, accenting her curvature. She smelled of roses today, not too overpowering but delightfully noticeable. With her came several more Nebulites, who gazed up at the tree and around them in awe.

“What’s not to enjoy,” Polyastera proposed, “though its power will have to be verified at a later date. After all, few of us have existed long enough to see the effects of its fertility blessing - although testing its effect is always fun.” She gave Laurien a wink.

”Good, good. I am glad you’re all enjoying yourselves.” she said, turning to the side to point at the three she brought. She pointed first a Nebulite of blue and purple swirls, his hair black hair was short and star riddled, ”This is Aster,” she then pointed to a female Nebulite of deep red and black, her body riddled with stars and her frame small. She had long, flame red hair, tinged with yellow and orange swirls. ”This is Cassieopoeia, or Cassie for short,” and then she pointed to the last Nebulite. A male of pitch black, riddled with no stars. His hair was the same stark white as Polly’s, and he held it in a bun. His face was the most curious of them all. ”And this is Ion. They were interested in getting off Nebulan, so I brought them here for an adventure.” At the mention of their names, Cassie waved, Aster nodded, and Ion gazed up at the tree before being elbowed by Cassie. He then blinked, looking at Cassie angrily before looking around. Sheepishly he waved at Polly and the others.

Polyastera eyed the three up and down with various degrees of interest. She took a few steps towards Aster and gently took him by the chin. She scrunched her nose a little and stared into his eyes for a moment before calmly asking, “Tell me, dear, when did you last bathe?”

Aster’s face grew bright blue at the remark and he held his arm limply as he avoided eye contact with Polly. “It’s uh… It’s been a bit.”

Polyastera hummed monotonously. “Yes, I can tell. Go down to the beach, have yourself a wash and come back after, thank you very much.” She pushed his face away with a soft, yet quite dismissive hand and moved on to Cassieopoeia, repeating the same grip about her chin. As she did, Aster sighed, looked at Laurien who was silently laughing and then began to quickly walk away, embarrassed. Polyastera, meanwhile, was running her hand up and down Cassie’s cheek with a gentle hum.

“I absolutely adore your colours, dear… However, I know of one who’d love them far more.” She stepped over next to her and pointed towards the trunk where Pallason, Philia and Titanon sat laughing among themselves and eating fruit. “You see that skinny little boy? He is very fond of deeper, more passionate colours. Oh, and he loves an assertive lover - are you assertive?”

Cassie tilted her head to look at Pallason and her eyes grew slightly larger, before shrinking when she looked back at Polly, tilting her head up. Her voice was rich and confident when she spoke. “He’ll do.”

Polyastera smiled and pecked her on the cheek. “He’ll like you.” She then walked past to the final male, as Cassie wandered over to the others, though she didn’t grab his chin. She eyed his hair instead with a mixture of annoyance and disappointment smeared across her face like an ointment. She pointed at the bun. “Loosen that, please.”

The man smirked and tilted his head at her before asking, “Why?” His voice cool.

“Your head shape does -not- complement any sort of form on top of your head; in fact, your wider jaw makes your head look a little like a pear.” She hummed. “If you try, you might be able to make it work with a ponytail.”

Ion crossed his arms and looked at her in annoyance, while eyeing her up and down. He then said smugly, “I’m quite fond of my shape, thank you very much. Maybe you should work on yourself first before commenting on others, especially with a chest like that.”

Polyastera was looking down at her nails. She gave him a glance past her eyebrows. “Hm? Sorry, I was busy not being interested - see, the rule here, at the tree, is the following --” She poked a finger on his chest and smiled smugly. “As long as make it in, you are free to do whatever you want, eat whatever you want and love whomever you want.” She looked at Laurien and sighed. “And the longer it takes for you to be a good little boy and undo that abominable hair-do, the smaller the chances are that I, Polyastera, will allow you to enter.”

Ion opened his mouth to retort but was cut off by Laurien whistling. ”Now now children, play nice with one another. Ion, undo the hair. Polly darling, come here.” she said opening up her arms. Ion grumbled something under his breath, but obliged, and undid his hair, which fell down to his shoulders.

Polyastera flashed Ion a smirk before walking into Laurien’s arms and embracing her lovingly. “Sorry about that, dear - I cannot help being so demanding. I am just so used to--...” She pecked at Laurien’s neck. “... Quality.” Ion simply frowned and walked off.

Laurien bent down with a giggle and whispered into her ear, ”Play nice with the boy and you can stay with me tonight.” Laurien then kissed Polly a top her head, squeezed her tightly once more and then let her go.

Polyastera held on for a little longer and gave Laurien a huff as she pulled away. “Oh, I don’t know… I’m promised to Hectore tonight.” She tapped her cheek with a finger pensively. “I might be persuaded, though, if you could tell me a story.”

Laurien raised her eyebrow slightly, as she put her hands on her hips. ”A story?”

Polyastera nodded. “The one about the time aboard Shengshi’s ship, if you could - and please, make it as detailed as you remember it.” She ran a pair of fingers up and down the length of Laurien’s forearm and slowly laid her ear against her chest. “Please?”

The surrounding Nebulites looked green with envy.

Laurien rolled her eyes for the others and smirked before placing a hand on the side of Polly’s head. She twirled her white hair on her finger. ”So theatrical, darling. Whoever could have taught you such things.” she mused. ”What are you planning little one?” Laurien asked softly.

“Oh, a bit of this, a pinch of that.” Polyastera took Laurien’s hand and began to guide her through the crowd. The crowd parted before them, not necessarily out of respect, but simply because most of them understood by now that if anyone stood in front of Polyastera by the time she came to them, she would stop and wonder why there was a wall of air before her. “And,” she continued, “a large handful of ambitions, most of which are dependent on that lovely story of yours. Come, our spot is the best. Pallason, scoot.”

The skinny boy, who was interrupted mid-chat with Cassie, jerked to life and hopped to the side like a well-trained dog, though he did not seem happy about it.

Laurien sat down, leaning back on her hands. ”Hello everyone. Are we enjoying ourselves today?” she said in a sing song voice.

“Immensely,” Titanon said in his gentle baritone voice as Philia drew circles on his chest with a finger. She flashed Laurien a smile. Pallason also gave Laurien a smile, though it had a slightly less enthusiastic air about it. ”Good, very good. So, the story about his Holiness Shengshi huh. Haven’t I already told this one a thousand times?”

“Oh, but you’re so good at telling it, Laurien,” Polyastera pleaded. “Your voice is so wonderful to listen to - intoxicating, even.”

“She’s obsessed about what’s onboard Shengshi’s ship,” Pallason added, receiving a pout from Polly.

“To drop the tease so soon - I’m starting to see a pattern with you.”

“Wuh-! What’s that supposed to mean?!” Pallason demanded, but Polly’s eyes had already switched back to Laurien with an awed glint in them.

”With what’s on board…” Laurien said thoughtfully. ”Ah, I see what this is about. Firstly, enough of this atrocious use of his name. If you were to ever meet his Lordship without addressing him properly, he would be most unamused. Deadly even. His Holiness or Lordship will suffice, and that my dears, will save your life and open wonderful things to you aboard the Jiangzhou. So,” she said turning to Polly, ”What is it you really want to know? I must admit, I am not so studied as Arya. She’s lived there you know, but I can try my best.”

“How did you sleep?” Polyastera asked eagerly. “A-and with whom? How much food did you eat? What is wine again, describe it, would you?”

Laurien chuckled. ”I slept in a bed twice the size of me, it was wonderful. But the servants… They are not like us and couldn’t do what you are thinking, darling. As for food, it is endless and comes in all sorts of sizes, and shapes and tastes. Wine is delicious and so relaxing, it tickles your insides and makes you feel, very, very good. But if you drink too much it can make your senses foggy.”

Titanon let out a hum. “What can these servants do, actually? You’ve told us that they bathed you, but did they do anything else?”

Polyastera, meanwhile, seemed to be fantasising about what nature of ‘good’ this wine made you feel.

Laurien turned to Titanon and said, ”They can do a variety of things, anything you ask really just not…” she looked around and pointed at a couple in the distance, ”Just not like that.” Before turning back to Titanon. ”They are very kind, and quite literally live to serve.”

“Wow,” Titanon blurted out. “Hey, Polly, sounds like something for you.” Polyastera smirked back and giggled.

“Why, it absolutely does, I agree. See, Laurien, we were discussing something earlier.”

“You were telling us,” Pallason corrected before receiving an elbow in the shin. Polyastera recollected herself and continued,

“Yes, we were -discussing- a place for ourselves, Nebulites, that would be something like Sheng-... Sorry, His Lordship’s boat. A place were servants would wait upon our every word and we could eat delectable food and enjoy each others’ company for eternity. Wouldn’t that be superb?”

Laurien narrowed her eyes and scrunched her nose before turning to Polly. ”Ah, so that’s the real question is it. A lavish lifestyle with servants at every beck and call.” she said, stretching back with a yawn. ”It does sound nice but tell me, does this really stem from my storytelling or is there more behind this still? What your asking… Hmm… It could possibly be done, but you’d have to know someone with the right connections. Someone who knows his Lordship perhaps?” she said, smiling devilishly.

"Your storytelling inspired it, dear - most certainly so.” She winked and then lost a bit of the excitement in her expression. “I suppose you are about to suggest that I speak with Arya, then?" Polyastera said a little dryly.

Laurien frowned, "No, I'm talking about myself. Come on Polly." she said before pouting, "Bless her heart but Arya was always more so on the side of personal freedom. When she was with Shengshi, the servants did not exist as they do now, but still. She respects their culture out of her friendship with his Lordship however. I know you think of her a prude but this lifestyle isn't for everyone."

"I find it a little odd that someone would reject a world of pleasure, but I suppose -some- believe life to be about other things." Polyastera began to teasingly caress Laurien's thigh. "Ssssso, you think you could put in a good word with His Lordship for us? You know how grateful that would make us." In the background, Titanon, Philia, Pallason and Cassie made expressions of similar interests.

"Some do, others don't." Laurien mused as she watched Polly's fingers. "I could help you, my dears. But are you prepared to sacrifice your lives here? And his Lordship will probably ask something of you as well. To get what you want would have a high price I'm sure."

"Life here is fine, dear, but, ugh… We sleep on moss or stone; we eat nothing but fruit while we wait for the crops to grow; and we have to do everything ourselves here," Polyastera complained.

"You hardly ever do anything, though," Pallason protested.

"You know I am much too delicate for the fields, love," she answered, "Titanon is more suited for that kind of work." The muscular male pursed his lips and flexed, summoning a giggle and a kiss from Philia.

Laurien chuckled heartily. " Let me teach you a lesson, dears. To speak with the gods of this world, all you have to do is pray and they might talk to you back." she laughed before getting up and kneeling down in the center of them. She then closed her eyes and dipped her head forward. "Oh your Holiness Shengshi, Lord of a Thousand Rivers, I your humble Servant Laurien, asks for an audience."

The air surrounding the Branch of the World Tree grew a little drier; the nutty smells of fresh grain and the sweet fragrance of ripe fruit permeated the immediate surroundings and several Nebulites looked around for the source with watering mouths; there came a distant trickle, like that of a small stream. A pair of invisible eyes fixated on Laurien and the Nebulites around her, followed by a deep hum.

“He Bo, how many cups have I had today? Only two? I swear, I am seeing multiple-... No, never mind, they’re different.” The voice cleared its throat. “Laurien, my dear - so nice to see you! I was wondering when you would come to me again. How have you been?”

"I've been…" she hesitated for a moment opening her eyes. To any who noticed there was a hint of an underlying sadness in them before blinking away to a soft smile. "Better now that I'm talking to you, your Holiness."

“Oh, you little flirt, you,” the snake teased back. “Now, uhm… If I may ask, who are these surrounding you? Did Orvus make more of you?”
Polyastera, Titanon, Pallason and Philia beamed in awe at the invisible, yet quite easily perceived pair of reptilian eyes. Polyastera in particular rose to her feet and reached out to touch them, looking extremely disappointed to find that there was nothing to grab onto. The snake grunted. “... And what is this one doing?”

Polyastera blinked and sat back down, looking beyond excited at all this. Laurien giggled at Polly's attempt before clearing her throat and saying, "Your Holiness, I am proud to announce that Orvus and the awe inspiring Ohannakeloi have created a species in Arya's and this servants image. They are called Nebulites and they have… Many gifts."

“Many gifts, you say?” the snake repeated. “Elaborate, if you would.”

"Yes indeed. They have a longer lifespan, two forms to choose from, flight, and are capable of reproducing with most other sapients, with a few exceptions of course. The occurring offspring is something Orvus calls, 'human'. They've always been taught to farm, craft, and stone working. Masonry I think it was. Oh and they can go long periods of time without eating at the cost of their libidos, which are very, very high." Laurien paused, then said, "I believe Arya is teaching them how to hunt, read, and write among other things. I have, of course, taught them about the finer things in life." she said smoothly.

“Of course, you have,” the snake praised with a chuckle. “A lifeform capable of reproducing with most other sapient life, hmm? Sounds… Like an interesting quirk. I am not quite certain how it will work in practice, but, well… Either way, that is wonderful to hear - it is good to see that Orvus really has turned himself around and is furthering the goal towards prosperity.” There came a hum. “My dear, as much as I would love to talk with you until sundown and beyond, you caught me in a bit of a precarious moment. Therefore I must be so rude to ask if there is a motive behind this prayer of yours?”

"Ah, of course your Holiness. Well you see, the fine Nebulites around me have taken to heart the story of my time aboard your Palace. They seek to have the same comforts in life, and asked if I would contact you. And so here we are. I believe Polyastera can explain better what she and the others want. Polly?" Laurien said, looking to her.

Polyastera rose back up and curtsied with a wry smile. “O great Shengshi, Lord of the Thousand Rivers--”

“It’s ‘streams’, actually.”

“What?” Polly said, somewhat taken aback.

“Lord of the Thousand Streams,” Shengshi corrected. “Laurien said it wrong, but I did not wish to interrupt her.”

Polyastera scowled momentarily before calming herself again. Titanon and Pallason exchanged anxious looks. Laurien held a hand over her mouth, trying to keep herself from laughing. “Forgive me, Your Lordship,” Polyastera apologised, “it was not my intention to mispronounce your title.”

There came a flat hum. “That is nothing to concern yourself about. You heard wrong and repeated wrong - I corrected you. It is no longer a misunderstanding. Now, from what Laurien told me, you seek a life of luxury?”

“Yes, Your Lordship,” Polyastera replied with another curtsy. “We have heard Laurien’s stories about Your Lordship’s ship and her stay onboard, and we wish to live forever like that: servants waiting upon our every order; beds twice-thrice our own size; all the time in the world to enjoy one another’s company. Can… Can this be done?”

A silence chilled the mood, and Polyastera’s smile faded little by little. After a while, she turned to Laurien and asked, “Is-... Is he still here?”

"Oh yes child. He's either thinking about what could be done, or planning to smite us all." she giggled.

Polyastera seemed unfamiliar with the idea of consequences and hummed. “I see,” she said curtly.

A pensive purr reverberated through the air. “That is quite a tall order, young Polyastera - do you have any way of paying for it?”

Polyastera made a frown. “I do,” she answered and tossed her hair over his shoulders once more. There came a monotonous hum.

“That would be?”

“My body, my life, my servitude - you may have all of it if I get to live as Laurien described,” Polyastera proclaimed. Pallason, Titanon and Philia rose to their feet and surrounded Polyastera from behind.

“Hey, hey, hey, Polly - let’s not get ahead of ourselves, alright?” Pallason cautioned. “Didn’t you just say earlier that we were meant to rule?”

“Yeah, at least take some time to think it over,” Philia agreed. “I’m as eager as you, Polly, but-... I don’t wanna give up my life for it.”

“Listen to your friends, Polyastera,” the snake warned. “Giving your life so easily for a lifestyle you have never experienced is quite reckless, and not in a good way. I will propose an alternative before we engage in any negotiations with your souls on the line, is that alright?”

Polyastera rolled her eyes at her friends and then bowed to the invisible eyes. “Of course, Your Lordship. What do you propose as an alternative?”
“You, as well as any who wishes to come along, are invited to stay at my ship for a single day. If you find afterwards that you cannot live anymore without this kind of lifestyle, we shall negotiate further.”

Polyastera gasped, as did her friends. She began to jump up and down screaming in joy and Titanon had to hold her shoulder to keep her excitement bottled up. “Oh thank you, thank you, thank you!” Polyastera shouted into the sky and started running around the Branch, shouting promises of a luxury stay onboard Shengshi’s boat. Her friends set off into a run after her and the snake let out a small groan.

“You have really made Jiangzhou seem like Paradise to them, haven’t you, Laurien?” the snake’s voice said wearily.

Laurien leaned back and watched the other's excitement. For the briefest moments she had a wicked smile upon her gave before it changed to that of smugness. "I have found that mortal hearts are easily tempted, your Holiness. I simply provided them with a blueprint of luxury and they have added their own wants and desires. Polyastera wants nothing more than to live life deliciously, as do the others. You saw how far she was willing to go to get it. I find it fascinating, such depths of desire."

“Be careful, Laurien,” Shengshi whispered. “Children’s disappointment in parents who cannot deliver on their promises can be quite severe.”

Laurien scowled briefly before relaxing her face, "Oh I know all too well, Your Holiness. All too well." she said, a taste of bitterness leaking into her voice.

“As long as you do…” came a dry reply. “Very well. I will come by to pick you up in the near future. I cannot say exactly when, but keep them occupied while they wait, if you could. Oh, and please do tell Orvus I am coming to visit.”

"It shall be done, your Holiness. We will look forward to your arrival." Laurien said curtly.

“Very good. Until then, be safe - and give Arya my regards.”

"Of course, your Holiness. Farewell for now." she said quietly.

The presence faded out and the familiar scents of the Branch and Nebulite sweat returned. Polyastera had managed to rouse most of them into a wild celebration in honour of the snake’s promise, and laughter and kissing sounded left and right.

Laurien stretched again and began to hum a little tune as she undid her bun. She then began to run her fingers through her hair, much like a harp playing. It was then that Aster returned, a grumpy look on his face as he sat down. He looked around with a curious look on his face and then asked, "Did I miss something?"

Laurien beamed a smile at him. "More than you know, dear." she said with a lighthearted giggle.



In Divinus: The God RP, Mk. III. Finished in Record Time™! → 5 yrs ago Forum: Advanced Roleplay


&






He flew for a long time, the burden of his decision to keep Rowan in the dark, weighed his heart down. Where he had sought to find answers and advice from a friend, he had found only more questions. Li'Kalla was gone, he could not find her and thus he feared the worst had befallen his sister. He had once found Silver's own advice to be invaluable and he had sought Li'Kalla out for the same and he had failed. For that, he blamed himself. He should have gone with her to help unite them, it was the least he owed her. There was no sign of the Beast or any fragments, it was if she simply disappeared.

Instead, he had found Eurysthenes, the God of Illusions. His siblings predicament was an unusual one and he did not know whether the god was being truthful or not. Yet from everything he could tell, his loss was genuine. Orvus knew not how to help him and that realization was hard to grasp. Hopefully Abanoc would know better, if he still existed as well.

And so Orvus had left Li'Kalla's island home and traveled in the direction of the Eye. He knew not what awaited him at his home, only that he would have to face his own decisions and the consequences that came from them. It was strange to even grasp, that a being so powerful and limitless as he, still struggled with himself. Perhaps he was more mortal than he had ever realized. But he was not mortal, he was a God and could fix any problem, but could he fix this? Fertility was not his strong suit, that was more of a Phystene thing. Could he bless his family with it? Could he give them what they really wanted. Or what his wife really wanted? Familiarity of home and a new chance for life. The more he thought about it, the more he began to think it could be done.

He would give his daughters and wife what they lacked but… Who would they… He thought more on this. Rowan and he were together but there was no one for Ava and Lily. Even Arya and Laurien. There was no species that they could have children with. That would need to be rectified as well. That was what his family lacked. More. Just like the Selka, and Ihokhetlani, so too would he create his own species, molded after himself and his girls. They would be called, Nebulites. After the form he adopted as his own.

He had another thought, one spurred by his families human form in the dream. Why not have the best of both worlds? He would make them have two appearances. One of the Celestial and one of the Cthonic. They would also have to be capable of flight, would have longevity, greater height, and be capable of reproducing with any species. That offspring, outside of their own kind, would be like the people from his dream. Yes, this would have to do. Perhaps then Rowan would not be so angry with him. Still, he could go further and give himself a human form, one from the dream. Yes, he knew that would work.

Yet he was hesitant. Did he have the power for such a feat? The Nebulites would be no mundane species, not like others that inhabited the world. So lost in thought he was that Orvus completely flew past the Eye and off into the direction of the Dragon's Foot. It was then that something caught his eye, and brought his attention into focus. In the distance, something floated in the sky.

It was fairly large and rather solid looking, not a combination often seen in terms of things floating in the sky. It appeared to be made of stones of various sorts, a central cylindrical structure, at the bottom a domed shape capped off that end. At the top however arose out a central tower, or more appropriately a keep, as walls reached up from the base apart from the keep inside. The walls were carved intricately, each having a very specific pattern evocative of different beings, some familiar and others not.

This and more came to Orvus in that instant, but also was another some detail, on the ramparts of the wall, raised from the central block and set apart from the keep, sat a crab. And he was waving. His voice reached out the inter-spanning distance with the ease of communication between the two gods.

“Hello! Orvus I do believe it was if my memory from the Architect’s Palace serves rightly?”

He thought it a strange sight but he knew the voice behind those words even if he had never heard it before. He began to make his way closer to the keep.

"And you are Ohannakeloi, God of Stone. Hello sibling of mine." he said, having flown over to the keep in a blink of an eye. Now floating before Ohannakeloi.

“It is most wonderful to see you, I have talked to only a few of our fellows since that time of our last meeting. Tell me do you know much of these islands before us, I had thought to visit them before heading north to Kalgrun as I believe it is called.” Ohannakeloi clicked one claw then the other as he spoke. “I plan to take a survey of much of Galbar before returning with what may be of use to Atokhekwoi, to enrich it you see. Enough of my ponderings, I can only imagine what great works you have wrought since I last saw you. What of you fair Orvus, what brings you here?”

Orvus relaxed visibly and cocked his head at the crab. "I see. It's good to see you as well. As for these islands, and as for why I am here, they are known as the Eye of Desolation. They are also my home and where my family lives. As for great works… Well I would have to say my daughters. They have far surpassed me as a being. But tell me, I never expected that you would want to fly up so high. Where have you come from and why have you built this Keep?" he asked softly.

“I must admit the answers to your two questions are but a singular one, Shengshi’s Jiangzhou. I have just stayed as a guest of his and I am most thoroughly impressed by his manner of living and his creation. So I have built a great structure of my own to occupy, as you can see it is not quite completely barren, I have yet to decide upon appropriate servants or furnishings for this place.” Ohannakeloi patted the rampart with his right claw, “And I contest that this is so high, it is at most a mountain’s distance which can be raised up in stone easily enough to be connected to Galbar once more. Oh but what am I saying speaking of keeps and mountains, you have family Great Orvus! You simply must tell me of them, to surpass you, you must be proud.”

The term of servants peaked Orvus’ interest, and he flew closer to his brother. ”I’ve been aboard the Jiangzhou, only once, and I must admit that Shengshi and I are not on the best of terms. It is good to know that you and he get along. But yes,” he mused, ”Arya and Laurien, Ava and Lily too, with my dear wife Rowan. An odd story of how we all came to be together, one that I will save for another time. If you had known my in the earlier days of Galbar, you would have thought me a monster. Yet, I was shown a better way, a way I never knew I wanted. Thus, Arya came first. To my regret, she and I have a rocky start, but now things are better. To put simply, they are better than me because they are kind, pure hearted souls who strive to better the world. I am very proud.” he said with a relaxed expression.

”I must say however, you seem to be in a predicament, so am I. How badly do you require servants? I have been thinking of an idea. A race of potential, but I do not know if I am capable of creating them alone. Perhaps it was fate that we met, right here, right now?” Orvus said, crossing his arms.

“Fate I wouldn’t know about, but I can say it does seem most fortunate. Tell me of this race, I am most interested in your proposal.”

”To truly understand what I am proposing, please, let us depart to my home. Along the way, I shall tell you.” Orvus said.

“Lead the way.”

”Now imagine this, a race of beings called Nebulites…” Orvus started before leading the way.

And so Orvus spoke as the two drifted closer to his home. He told Ohannakeloi of the Nebulites, what he envisioned and how they might interact with the world. He spoke with passion and what he imagined their future could be in the world. He also told his brother why he had thought of such an idea, and his problems at home. Ohannakeloi was most powerfully drawn in, he had not held much reservation before but to see his fellow god so impassioned weighted heavily to favor the proposed creation.

Ohannakeloi interrupted the other god, “I have heard enough good Orvus, I will help you bring forth these Nebulites.”

Orvus paused in his talk and looked at Ohannakeloi with thanks in his eye. ”Thank you, Ohannakeloi. This lifts a great burden off my shoulders. And of course, you may take as many as you like for your needs. Now come, we are almost there.” Orvus said, pointing to an island with large patches of cleared land.

As they drew closer, the island proper came into view. Fields and fields of beets, potatoes, rice, and yams could be seen sprouting. Wooden homes could also be seen, and from it, two figures fast approaching. One donned armor of white, wielding a sword of the same color. The other was black, cloaked and had a large sword at hand. As they came nearer, their swords were put away when they say Orvus beckoning to them. Orvus then turned to Ohannakeloi, ”Brother, I would like to introduce to you, Arya and Laurien.” he said gesturing to them. ”Girls, this is Ohannakeloi, God of Stone and he has come to help.”

As they neared, their demeanor changed to pure awe. Tears welled up in Arya’s eyes, and Laurien was slack jawed. Arya then blurted out, ”You’re so beautiful, your Holiness.” she said with a shaky voice. Laurien simply nodded her head slowly, as if words were lost to her.

“Why thank you, good Lady Arya.” Ohannakeloi turned to Orvus, shifting his weight on the wall. “Quite well mannered and kind I must say. And this now, armor and a weapon? Most well made I can tell, seemingly of your own essence, to protect them I would presume of you fair Orvus?”

Orvus gave his daughters a strange look but turned to Ohannakeloi and said, ”Yes, another project of mine. Something I learned from a very dear friend. The world needs protectors, God’s can’t be everywhere at once. Thus, Knights will be born into this world, and the Nebulites will be the first members, led by these two. The first of their kind, without even knowing it.” Orvus said.

Arya turned to give Laurien a look, but her sister did not exchange it. Her focus was still on Ohannakeloi. Thus Arya looked back, her eyes welling up again at the radiance of the crab god. ”What ever are you talking about, father? Nebulites? First of our kin- Oh...Oh!” and the sudden realization crossed her face. ”You can’t be serious!”

”But of course we are, my daughter. Ohannakeloi has agreed to help me create a race of beings in our images. With them, I can fix my mistakes upon bringing Rowan, Ava and Lily here.” Orvus said proudly.

Arya opened her mouth to say something, but instead nodded her head. Laurien, still looked up Ohannakeloi with awe in her eyes.

”Come! Let us touch earth and begin. I have words with Rowan and two surprises.” Orvus said.

So the party did just that. Orvus, Arya and Laurien led the way and touched down upon the soil, greeted by three more figures. Rowan, held onto Ava and Lily as the two squirmed in her grasp. They watched as the floating keep landed. Ohannakeloi had set down the Ihomakwoi a fair distance away, catching up relatively quickly as divine beings were wont to do. The keep had first made an impression into the earth with the bottom dome, and as that dome near complete submersion is suddenly steadied, the earth below being turned to stone to support the god’s residence.

When Ohannakeloi arrived next to Orvus, the three fell silent. Rowan looked up Ohannakeloi just as Laurien did, and with tears in her eyes. Ava and Lily, looked upon the crab with wide eyes full of excited wonder. They were giddy as any could be in the presence of such awe inspiring sight.

”Allow me to introduce my wife, Rowan and twins, Ava and Lily. Girls, this Ohannakeloi, God of Stone. He is here to help us.” Orvus said humbly.

The twins began to ask a plethora of questions at the crab, ranging from; ‘Why are you so shiny’, to ‘You’re the biggest crab I’ve seen!’ Meanwhile, Rowan began to cry white tears as she looked upon the crab and then back to Orvus with a look of confusion. ”Girls, girls, remember your manners. Is that any way to treat a guest?”

Ohannakeloi made a noise that could have been a laugh, “Its fine by far, brother.” Ohannakeloi tried to answer their questions or talk to them as fast as they could bring them up, “You know there are bigger crabs then I, I made them, they never stop growing as long as they live in fact.”

Orvus gave a very faint smile and walked over to his wife. He took her hands, releasing the girls who ran over to Ohannakeloi and began to prod him with even more questions. Arya and Laurien were speaking to each other as they watched their smaller sisters play. Orvus then looked Rowan in the eyes and said, ”I am sorry for what I did. I should have told you, or found a way to make it work.” he said, his voice full of sadness.

”Orvus… There’s a lot I don’t know about this world, or even about you, but the fact of the matter is this; I was upset, I still am, but not as I was. I forgive you husband. I understand why you did it, just please, never again. You have to tell me about these sort of things. Okay?” she said softly with a weak smile.

Orvus shook his head, ”You have my word, never again. Now, I have some gifts. One for you and the girls, one for all of you, and one for me. With the help of Ohannakeloi, I’m going to bring into this world a part of the old, and a part of the new.” He then turned to Ava and Lily. ”Girls! Come over here please.” With annoyed sighs they came over and stood next to Rowan. Orvus then smiled, and said, ”This gift is not so much a gift, but a birthright. One that you will not care for until you are older and capable.” Orvus then waved his hand over the trio and Rowan visibly gasped. The girls looked at their mother with concern but did not react like she did. Rowan then looked at Orvus with knowing eyes and a wide smile.

Orvus then backed away from them and turned to face Ohannakeloi. ”Are you ready, brother?” he asked.

Ohannakeloi snapped his left claw, “I am.”

Orvus then walked over to Ohannakeloi and placed a hand upon his carapace. Before them, an empty sky stretching on and on with potential. Both gods rose a free limb up into the sky and willed forth into reality, a people. The sky darkened and up above, Veradax hung dimly as always. It seemed to look down at them, unyielding as ever. Slowly, ever so slowly, the air began to shimmer, with dazzling lights, Pulsing, growing, beating- living. This shimmer took form, humanoid, shapely, with the colors of the stars. These forms condensed into black, reds, purples, blues, oranges and even yellows. White starlights appeared like a splattering of paint upon a canvas. Some had many, some had few, and some had none at all. Patterns and swirls of color formed, as lustrous hair took shape in all forms, some reflecting the same colors of the body and others completely different. Finer details then emerged, as the two genders became obvious, coming in all different heights and shapes but maintaining the same lithe form in some regard.

As the pulse beat even louder, they became known to the world as the rest of the shimmer took form in mundane clothing that covered sensitive parts. And then there was a loud bang, and the world returned with its light. Orvus let his hand fall from Ohannakeloi, feeling briefly drained, but he still looked upon his newest creations. There were thousands of them, and they hovered in the air, oblivious to the world as they slept. Before waking them, Orvus turned around to see the shocked faces of his family, and with a snap, he linked Rowan, Ava and Lily to the Nebulite race. Almost immediately Rowan began to float. Her eyes bugged out as she flailed. Orvus could not help but chuckle as Arya and Laurien helped her, and Ava and Lily complained.

Orvus then turned to Ohannakeloi and said, ”Shall we wake them, brother?”

“It does not do much good if we don’t.”

As the two gods willed, the many thousands began to wake. Ohannakeloi spoke, echoing and emphasizing the knowledge they had implanted in their joint creations. “You are Nebulites! The creations of Orvus and Ohannakeloi, born from the mind of Orvus but jointly formed by our two divine selves.”

Ohannakeloi continued to speak, his sense of presence and his aura helping to forestall any chaos that may occur from sudden existence. “You are made in the image of others and are a people on Galbar, you have within you some knowledge of yourselves, this world and the divinities. Among you are a few who shall travel with me, and the majority shall stay with Orvus and the first of your people. Those who wish to travel with me can go to my keep, Ihomakwoi, over there.”

All Nebulites held eyes upon their makers, with quiet gasps of excitement and joy. Many looked touched their faces and bodies and marveled at the sensations. When Ohannakeloi willed, so too did the Nebulites go who were chosen. They flew to his keep, a perfect sizing, half and half of both sexes to go wherever Ohannakeloi went. The rest that remained looked upon them with curious eyes.

Orvus then spoke, ”Know this, you that remain, this is the beginning of your lives. And I shall teach you many things. Enjoy this day, for it is yours. Tomorrow, the real work begins.” he said before turning to Ohannakeloi. ”Thank you, for helping me, Ohannakeloi. If you ever have a need, do not hesitate to ask. I shall help you if I am able.” Some of the nebulites began to land, while others still hovered above. There was a great amount of curiosity within them, as they learned about each other.

“I did only what any of our fellows should have done in such a position. I am not above taking your offer however, if a time should come I should be glad to count upon you.” Orvus nodded in return.

It was then that Arya and Laurien walked by, with tears streaming down both their faces. They bowed before Ohannakeloi. Arya then lifted her head to say, ”I never thought… Thank you. The both of you. We have a people now.” Laurien then lifted her head and said, ”Thank you, this is… Beautifully wonderful.” They then slowly rose and wandered off into the crowds, to be welcomed with open arms. Rowan, Ava and Lily then arrived before the two gods. Rowan carried with her a look of awe, same as the twins.

”That was… Simply incredible. I-I hardly have words… It was just so… so… so." she stammered. Orvus placed his hand upon her cheek and caressed it gently. ”There’s more. I know how important our old look was, so-” and a flash of light enveloped Orvus, only to fade a moment later. Before them stood a man, bearded, slightly aged, and with a warm smile upon his lips. It was a form Rowan knew all too well. ”What do you think?” Once again, Rowan was speechless, but Ava and Lily wasted no time in tackling him.

“Dad! You look like you again!” Lily exclaimed happily.

“Yeah!” Ava followed, “And you have lips again!”

Orvus chuckled loudly, and embraced both of them, and when he did they too changed. Their starry forms molded away to bring forth pink flesh and green eyes with chestnut hair. Lily’s face was coated with freckles, while Ava’s was not. That was their only identifying mark, for they looked the same. They both looked at each other and pointed, shouting, “You look like you again!”

Orvus then turned to Rowan who had tears streaming down her cheeks, with a small smile on her lips. Orvus then hugged his wife, and so too did her form change as well. Her mahogany hair bloomed, as she pulled away to look at her husband with her amber colored eyes. She then kissed him, long and deep. When they pulled away from each other, Rowan said, ”I’ve been waiting to do that since I woke up.” she giggled. Orvus couldn’t help but smile and said, ”There’ll be plenty more where that came from.” he then gave her another quick peck before turning to Ohannakeloi.

”How do I look?” he asked.

“Good I suppose, you look like Aelius, K’nell, Chopstick Eyes and all the rest that keep that strange bipedal form. I mean bipedalism is quite useful I admit but I hardly see what all this uniformity has to do with it.”

Orvus chuckled, ”It will do. Now come, let us mingle with our creations.” he said, looping his arm with Rowan’s. He then took Ava’s hand and Rowan took Lily’s as they wandered off into the crowd with Ohannakeloi.








In Divinus: The God RP, Mk. III. Finished in Record Time™! → 5 yrs ago Forum: Advanced Roleplay
The Windweavers




Some time had passed since Rignol’s resurrection, though quite how long was difficult to judge up in the everblue sky. The machine which had given him new life had not stood idle and now the first undead was joined in the sky bastion by five others.

There was Ossian Bem, a humanoid void soul who had managed to form both a Slouch hat and a long over coat on her stone body. Unlike Rignol she had been a lot more forthcoming about her past, claiming to be an experienced soldier who had served as a revolutionary general in several wars of independence, though Rignol noted that she never mentioned if any of the causes she had fought for had succeeded.

Kabarna the fire giant. Her body had deliberate cracks torn into it, causing thin wisps of red verse to spill out and evoke the flames that had burned there in life. Crude depictions of what exactly she would do the squall that had killed her where carved into the stone of her body like tattoos.

Sun Jian who’s kind where apparently only know as Servants. He and the fire giant had been at odds initially, supposedly their creators had been at war for decades now. Neither species had actually fought the other and had instead both had been killed by monstrous creations of the opposing side, but the enmity had been there nonetheless. Azura’s insistence that their new life could be a “fresh start” had eventually cooled their grudge, but not before they all got to see how dangerous their new bodies where, as the small craters littering one of the rooms near the resurrection engine could attest to.

Auk-Ra-Shatara was a bird like creature whose body was clearly avian rather than simply evoking the theme of a bird. He had been stabbed in the back after complaining that his kind’s tendency of stabbing each other in the back was impeding their ability to escape a place called the infinite maze. They had self appointed themselves as the group’s mediator despite their unusual speech pattern making them ill suited for any task involving talking a lot.

Sha’Harim was a gorilla. They had not been one in life, but they had decided to take the form of one as a statement against their creator. What that statement was they had never said. The massive stone silverback did not appreciate being asked either.

The six of them had been raised in quick succession and then run through a series of tests to ensure that everything was working as Azura had intended. Physical exertion and endurance had been tested, revealing that the Armonia bodies where both faster and stronger than the flesh equivalent by a small margin and considerably more durable. They were quite a bit lighter than they appeared and could reduce their weight even further to allow for some rather remarkable feats of mobility, in particular while jumping.

Mental challenges seemed to be just as easy as they had been in life, though the need to stop and remember and reflect semi frequently was both a hindrance and boon. It was also discovered that most of the Galbarian undead had apparently never been exposed to things like mathematics or puzzles. Azura explained to the two void souls that the world they had been brought to was currently witnessing the dawn of mortal life and so the lives of all who were not living in the company of gods were still rather primitive, which was apparently something Azura wished to rectify.
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Along with improving the lot of mortals Azura wished for their aid in protecting the soul vault they had come from and help with brainstorming exactly what the replacement for the incendiary death system of Katharsos would look like. Also what to name their new order. Also ideas as to what to do with her divine power in general and, possibly, help with acquiring more power to aid in implementing the replacement afterlife.

At the moment however she was content with teaching them so that they could teach the others once the resurrection of soul crystals really got going at a larger scale. The main skill she handed down to them was the verse, language, music and divine miracles, all woven together. Their bodies, powered by the verse itself, made using it easier and even the most tone deaf among them was able to wield Azura’s magic. Armonia could be raised, wind wielded, Tonnikala summoned and Alma communed with using it, the power to do so drawn from their own souls energy absorbing and storing abilities.

Then at long last, they day finally came. It was time to enter the Vault.



Rignol stood before the massive entrance to the place where he had been housed, yet it was just that. A place. It served a simple function, the housing of crystal souls, which he was one. But he was a cut above the rest, wasn’t he? After learning all he could from Azura, he realized his new place in the world and it was low. Once he would have scoffed at the mere thought of being lowly, but now, it was all he had. Save his thoughts of gaining a respectable place in this new world, no matter the cost. But for now, he would be the dutiful servant of Azura, and in time, grow to be more.

He turned around to face the others and said, “We have a simple task, dictated by Azura herself. Make sure the Vault is functioning properly, and to the highest of standards. Our siblings sleep within after all. Let us not disappoint them, nor Azura. Let us descend.” he said before humming an unknown tune as he turned around. A melody from the past, yet holding new purpose.

“You’re kind of overselling the goddess's instruction there.” said Ossian, the other void soul in the party. “Though at least it’s far more concise.” she added as she locked step with him.

“There is no overselling a divine decree” insisted Sun Jian behind them. The Servant was carrying one of their primary light sources, a single massive red feather that suffused the area around them with the light of the Blue. Auk-Shatara walked, or stalked, next to the servant, keeping themselves in between him and Kabarna the hulking fire giant. The even larger Sha’Harim knuckle walked along behind them all.

Ossian rolled their neck in place of rolling their non existent eyes. “Half the reason we’re down here is because you were curious about it Sunny. Her layering on reasons as to why it’s a good idea for us to check after the fact, does not change that fact.”

“Must you two bicker.” Rignol said from the front. “It matters not if Sun Jian was curious. Azura’s word is final. She gave us a chance at life again, this is the least we can do for her. Do not fool yourself, Ossian. I believe we all feel the same. Curious, just to different degrees.”

“Well yes, I am curious." Ossian admitted “Who wouldn’t be? But that wasn’t my point. My point is that this army/order we are going to be a part of will be one built out of volunteers. I’ve led enough of those to know that your rhetoric is going to cause issues down the line with how it clashes with the recruitment pitch.”

“I will not kneel.” came a rumble from the hulking form of Sha’Harim behind them. Ossian indicated back to the seldom spoken former pigmy, with both arms in order to express see, like that

“Friend-Allies!” interjected the avian Auk-Ra “Please let us cease-pause this arguing like Rignol said. There will be time later once task-mission is complete.” he was ignored.

“No one said you needed to kneel, Sha’Harim.” Rignol hummed. “Nor will my ‘rhetoric’ be detrimental to the recruitment process, Ossian. I am simply thankful to be… Alive again. Do you not feel the same way, perhaps?” he mused aloud, folding his hands behind his back as he walked on. “Hmm, It does not matter now, regardless. But rest assured, Ossian, when offered a chance at a new beginning, seldom do mortals refuse. Do not worry about it.”

“If I had waited I’d have been alive again eventually anyway, and in a far more pleasant manner. That seems to be Azura’s goal anyway. It’s that cause that I see value in following, not her divinity or her string-wrapped generosity.” Ossian replied.

“How can you say that when we owe our very lives to her!” Sun Jian exclaimed

“We owe our lives to other gods as well, who used us as servants and soldiers until we fell.” Kabarna said, the fire giant finally joining the discussion going on around her “Azura may not present herself like ours, but that doesn't mean she’s any different behind that mortal mask she’s wearing.”

“Shengshi and the Flame Demon or nothing alike you cretin” Sun Jian retorted, jabbing a finger past an exasperated Auk-Ra “Take that insult back right this second or else!”

“Stop-cease!” Auk-Ra’s taloned hand grabbed the offending limb thrust across his path and pushed it back to Sun Jian’s side. Their other hand pressed against Kabarna’s stomach in a vain attempt to prevent her from coming closer to the servant and responding to the threat “Do not fight-beat one another again. Vault-Place has enough dead in it already.”

Rignol scoffed. “Please, by all means, throw yourselves to the Gods who used you as servants, and soldiers. You were little more than play things to them. Do you really think they valued you? That they cared for your wellbeing? You died, remember. And who was the one that brought you back from death? Was it Shengshi? Was it Sartravius? No, my dearest companions. It was Azura.” Rignol said, landing at the end of the stairs. He then turned around to face them. “You can owe yourself to any God or Goddess, just know that at the end of the day, the only one that cared, waits above.”

“Now that we’ve arrived, we work in teams of two. Auk-Ra, you’re with Kabarna. Sun Jian, with Sha’Harim and that leaves Ossian with me. You know your assignments.” Rignol hummed again, before turning to Ossian. “Our descent is further yet.” before beginning to move off in the direction of the stairs. The dead general followed him a few moments later after trading a few unheard parting words with the other two groups.

The vault had grown even larger since last anyone had ended it, as the initiation of its true perose had mandated a massive expansion. To Rignol’s left the central chamber now descended ever deeper into galbar’s crust, a faint light emanating from its depths along with a constant wind. Small dots of faint light could also be seen all throughout the vault in a myriad of colors other than red, denoting the location of Armonia guards endlessly patrolling its halls.

“What are you humming anyway” Ossian asked eventually as they descended.

“Oh?” Rignol said absentmindedly. “Just a tune from the echoes of time, I suppose. It’s nothing special. In fact, I’d even say it was quite common from where I came from. Now it only holds meaning to me. Much like this place, a secret.” he said cryptically.

“And where was that exactly?” Ossian replied.

“A place, far, far away.” he said. “One not so different from this world, but different all the same.”

“It’s always none answers with you isn’t it.” Ossian let out an exasperated sigh which was an impressive feat for someone without lungs. “Do you have something to hide or were you just some cryptic fae out of a fairy tale before you died?”

“Now isn’t that a funny word, Fae. I hardly thought I’d ever hear the word again. Why, you know… I heard so many stories growing up, so many fairy tales of perfection and glory, and when I finally set out into the world, did you know what I found? More fairy tales, but these ones were different. They were of evil things that went bump in the night, that stole children, that corrupted them to do foul deeds. None of the stories I ever heard at home, made mention of such monsters. And do you know why, Ossian? Because my people, the Fae, were the monsters.” he said grimly. “Forgive me, if I care not to speak of the past. For like me, it is dead.”

There was only a stunned silence from Ossian. “I… Christ, I am never going to get used to this place.” she finally said, before raising an arm up and scratching behind her head awkwardly “I’m sorry Rignol. I should have recognised it as something you didn’t want to have brought up instead of being paranoid.”

“Don’t be. Paranoia has its uses. You were curious, and wanted to know what I am, where I’m from and more. It’s perfectly reasonable. I’d be far more concerned about whether or not any of it was true.” he said slyly. “Come now, we are almost there.” he said again.

He left the woman behind cursing quietly to herself on the staircase. Rignol then arrived upon another level, this one deep within the earth, hidden between walls and walls of stone. It was a special place, where the other void souls resided. He knew not how many were left, nor if any had come from his own world, but he knew they existed. Without waiting for Ossian, he entered turned into a corridor and halted in his tracks. Inside the room was very dark, save for a few crystals of deep crimson. Which was unlike what they should have been. Cautiously he moved closer to inspect and picked up the crystal.

It felt no different than any other crystal, but something invoked a primal sense of dread within him. It was wrong, and faulty. As he went to put it back, something jumped from the backside of the crystal and onto his leg. He looked down to see a small, arrow shaped creature rapidly ascending his stone body. Alarmed, he panicked and slapped the creature away where it fell to the ground. It did not move for a second, then bolted for him again. Rignol waited for it to get close, then in one swift movement, he stomped on the creature. There was a sound of something shattering, and when he moved his foot all that remained was bit of crystal.

Rignol set the crystal down, and swiftly moved out of the chamber and looked into the others, finding much the same.

“Rignol what the everloving fuck are you doing.” Ossan shouted, having finally caught up with him. She looked about ready to murdur him, but gave pause when she spotted the red crystals he had found. “Explain. Now. No bullshit I swear to god!”

He walked over to Ossian and said, “I’m afraid this time I have no answers. The crystals seem to be… changed, somehow. Worse, I found some sort of creature on a crystal. I don’t know what it was doing, but I can guess it’s the cause. We need to find the others and inform Azura immediately. Now come on, the creature attacked me. There’s no telling what they might be capable of.” He said calmly, before beginning to run.

He left her further accusations in the dust. They were quickly silenced by Sun Jian screaming bloody murdur in his native tongue a few moments later anyway. Ossian caught up with him a few moments after that, a red crystal carved in one hand. She was jumping rather than running, using the Armonia’s gravity defying Luft stone structure to leap up a dozen stairs at a time. “Evidence.” she explained.

The shengshian yelling continued unabated, leading them directly to the source. It seemed that he’d been lucky with only finding one. The servant and gorilla were being swarmed by a dozen of the vicious creatures. Sha’Harim had the worst of it, the large ape unused to his own shape could to little more than violently shake the bugs off of himself as they tried to bore into his body and corrupt his soul. Sun Jian was doing better as the screaming turned out to be less out of fear and closer to some kind of war chant, or possibly just gratuitous swearing, which he cried out while striking at the bugs with the palms of his hands.

Rushing into action, Rignol began to help Sha'Harim deal with his bugs. One by one, he shattered them with his hands as he avoided the mad stomping of the gorilla. All was going well until he got hit in the side, sending him flying into a pillar. Mildly disoriented, he began to rise to his feet and said, "Sha'Harim you must use your verse!"

“No singing!” the gorilla roared as the crashed against one of the shelves, crushing a few and scattering souls all across the corridor. “Pull yourself together man!... ape? Whatever, just quit rampaging so we can help you!” Ossian shouted as she stomped on one of the bugs.

Rignol sighed in annoyance at the Gorilla’s stubbornness, but knew that shouting at him would not help. A part of him wanted to see what the creatures were capable of, and that part of him almost stayed his hand from further helping. But the consequences of such an action would be dire and he thought against it. Instead, he began to hum. The same tune he had been humming all day, but instead of being silent, the hum began to grow louder, more potent and noticeable. No longer soft and sweet, the verse changed to that of power and hidden anger. He moved forward, slowing raising his hands as a wind began to fill the room. He could feel the currents, pulling and tugging, growing all around. Then he pushed with his hand, and all at once the wind was commanded, and a mighty gust slammed into Sha’Harim’s body, relieving him of the creatures, and then he pulled upon the wind with his hands and then guided the current to Sun Jian, washing him clean of the creatures.

Rignol then dropped his hands as his humming died down and with it, the wind. He had not used that gift before, but perhaps he needed to put more time into it. The rush of power was exhilarating, but there was no time to bask in it.

“Run. Up to the upper levels, now!” he said to the others.

The other three glanced at him, then each other and then finally obayed

“That was most impressive Rignol. ” Sun Jian complimented as they raced up the next flight of stairs. “I had not realized you had gained such master of Azura’s holy gifts.”

“Dangerous and reckless.” Sha'Harim said. Whether it was the Ringol himself that was the danger or simply the unprecedented use of power in combat, the former pigmy did not elaborate.

“Less talk, more regrouping.” Ossian snapped at them before asking “Do you know where Auk-Ra and Kabarna went?”

“Naturally.” Sun Jian said before moving to the front of the group and leading the way.

The servant had clearly watched the final groups movements after they separated, for the route they took was not an obvious one. His knowledge lead them to arriving just in time to see a bug forcing its way through one of the self-inflicted cracks in Kabarna’s body. Of her avian companion, there was no trace. Shattered remains of many attackers’ littered the area but what had brought her to the brink of ruin was a wholly new threat. A wind elemental floated a few feet away from her, a beam of glowing electrical energy lashed out from its outstretched hand, striking the undead giant. The power passed though her form, to grip her very soul, and the elemental was using its wind gusts to pin her face against one of the shelves. Its crystal heart was twisted by the corruptors causing its winds to whip about erratically and its solid parts to shudder as it wielded Azura’s power of soul crystals in the name of desolation.

Sun Jian, leading the way, did not hesitate, instead launching himself at the fire giant and gripping the barely protruding legs of the horrid creature attempting to destroy her. Feet braced against her back he pulled with all his might. Yet even as he did so the corrupted elemental raised its hand to grasp his soul too.

Rignol took an offensive stance and began to hum again, but quickly shouted at Ossian and Sha'Harim, "Do something useful!" Before renewing his humming. This time it was more of aggravation and annoyance but still conveyed a musicians touch.

He outstretched his hand at the wind elemental and with it came a torrent of air, knocking into it and throwing its balance off. Rignol did not let up his assault as the creature began to focus its undivided attention on him. Grasping the opportunity Sha'Harim charged, knuckles pounding against the stone floor. The Gust meanwhile fought back, one hand blasting wind in opposition to him while the other shot the soul grasping lightning at the charging ape.

In response Sha'Harim leapt up, hand grasping a shelf to swing him up and forwards. The beam of energy chased him up and caught his soul right at the end of his accent. His spirit was caught, but his body was far larger than it was meant to be and so gravity and momentum overcame the Gust’s power. Sha'Harim came crashing down just beside the Gust. it turned to face him, but Rignol‘s wind buffeted the construct and allowed his ally just the amount of time he needed to headbutt it. Hardened stone met it’s corrupted skin and found it wanting, the skull of the gorilla smashing through the free floating fragments that made up the wind elmental’s own head. It wavered, but did not die. Instead its remaining form buckled in on itself, limbs and chest consolidating in a sphere around its core that burst forth a torrent of wind which forced even the mighty Sha'Harim back.

Then came the faint sound of a whistle, bary audible against the gale that blasted the undead team, and then a loud rapid flute solo that ended with a high pitched tone which pierced the heart of the gust.

The Gust exploded, letting out one final burst of wind that knocked several of them of their feet. It also was the last wrench that Sun Jian pulled the corruptor bug out of Kabarna’s body. Freed from the jaws of double death she came up swinging only to realize they were no longer under attack. She glanced around and was the first to spot the source of the whistling.

Down at the entrance to the corridor they had come in stood the absentee Auk-Ra and Ossian. Behind them stood a green Armonia, twice their height. Its limbs where long and spindly, as was most of its body save for its chest and neck where verse spilled from its stone body, granting it an impressive set of sudo-lungs. In its hands it bore a massive flute, long as Ossian was tall, which it had used to destroy their foe.

“You spineless coward! You left me to die!” Kabarna accused the bird, jabbing an accusatory finger at him.

“No-no, you misunderstand friend-comrade. I knew you could handle yourself as I could not, so I went and got help-support” the bird said, before whistling a tune (it sounded like bird song) causing the Armonia to give her a thumbs up with its free hand.

“One of those things nearly killed me! If someone hadn't pulled it out!” she said, fear touching her anger. She glanced around until she spotted the bug squirming in Sun Jian’s hand “You?”

“Ah. yes. I suppose I did do that.” the servant said as he inspected one of the things that had tried to kill them.

“Thank you.” the giant finally begrudgingly said after a long silence.

“Oh... you’re welcome.” Sun Jian said, who seemed a little surprised that he had been thanked at all.

Ossian coughed before the exchange could go on any longer. “So. They can corrupt the constructs too. That’s probably bad.”

“Indeed, Ossian.” Rignol said, walking over to them, head held high. “Sun Jian, hand that here, and Ossian, the crystal. If you would.” he said, hands outstretched. “I shall go to Azura and give her this dire news. In the meantime, regroup at the surface, get as many Armonia as you can, and then purge the Vault of all corrupted. Is this understood?” he said expectantly.

“You realise there’s only one way in and out right? Might as well stick together till then?” Ossian said even as she tossed him the crystal. Sun Jian handed over the bug far more carefully.

“Of course, my mind was getting ahead of things.” Rignol said, as he grasped the crystal in one hand, and then pinched the creature above it’s head and chest, pinning it in place as it squirmed. “Let us go then, and keep on the lookout for more of those… Things.” he said, beginning to walk to the stairs.

They followed him, back up towards the light. It was a long arduous climb as their descent had kicked the hornets nest. Orvas’ infesters swarmed out of their hiding places and turned curators and Gusts to the task of preventing their escape. Despite this they climbed, amassing an army of their own, the Armonia guards for the vault roused from mindless patrols and forged into a true fighting force. Through song and stone they plowed through the corrupted workers till they reached the entrance of the vault.

They made it just before the desolate forces could cut them off. The flying forces soared up the long stairway leading to the surface. “Armonia. Form Ranks!” Ossian commanded, when it became clear they would be run down if they did not hold their ground.

“Go Rignol” she told him as the song woven constructs formed a shield wall backed by musical firepower in the face of the incoming storm. “We break them here or they break us.”

“Good luck.” Rignol stated, watching them with curiosity before leaving them behind.



A short summoning later, Rignol arrived at the Sky bastion a top a shark. He gave it a curtly goodbye as he made his way inside. His thoughts hung upon the battle, of the power wielded and of Ossian’s many questions. He had her exactly where he wanted her, but he shoved that from his mind as he neared the room of his new conception.

He opened the door, saying, “Azur-” before stopping in his tracks. She was not alone.






In Divinus: The God RP, Mk. III. Finished in Record Time™! → 5 yrs ago Forum: Advanced Roleplay




”It’s not your fault, Michallis. There was nothing you could do. It was just... fate.” Minerva said coldly, her voice betraying her words. She rested a hand upon a figure covered in a long cloth. Even though the sun shone brightly down upon them in that clearing, she felt no warmth. Only a biting numbness that ate at her heart like some sickness. Michallis fared no better.

The man, who at one time stood so high, with a twinkle in his eyes at all times, was cast lower than she had ever seen him before. He sat a ways away, as if afraid to get any closer. His posture was slumped, and he was coated in dry blood from fresh scars upon his chest, arms, and legs. His clothes were in tatters, but he wore them all the same. He looked vaguely ahead of her, his eyes glazed over, ringed with red. He looked awful. So much so, that she could barely hold her own gaze upon him.

She looked down at the small silhouette underneath the cloth. Gently she pulled back the cloth, to reveal a small pale face of ten years, with little pointy ears and small stubby horns. His hair was black, as were his tiny scales. But his eyes were shut, and they would never open again. Tears ran down her cheeks as she squeezed her eyes shut, but the image had been implanted into her mind forevermore. Death had never been so cruel. She lifted the cloth back up and over Kellin’s head, before opening her eyes again.

”But it is my fault, Minerva.” came Michallis’ hoarse voice. She snapped her gaze to him, beginning to shake her head. ”No it isn’t.” she retorted. Michallis then leaned forward, fresh tears streaming down his face as he balled his fists. ”If I hadn’t wanted to take him hunting, this wouldn’t have happened! We should have stayed home, like you said, but did I listen? No, I didn’t… And… And now he’s gone. Because of me...”

Minerva blinked and then snarled as she stood up, her own left fist balled up as well as she pointed a finger at her partner with her right, ”You don’t get to take the full blame! Stop trying to burden yourself with both of our guilt. You know I’m just as much to blame as you are. I could have went with you, I could have kept him home and and… Just held him in my arms just like when he was a baby. But I can’t do that now, because I wasn’t there to protect him, to protect the both of you. And that, Michallis, is my fault.” she said, before bursting into tears again. Slowly she fell onto her knees, placed her head atop her son’s chest and wept again, gripping him tight. Michallis bowed his head further, and said nothing else, even if he had words to say, she would not listen. Much like himself, she was just as stubborn.

And the entire world grew silent as it listened to the lamentations of a grieving mother.



It was later did they at last bury their child underneath a lonely tree. In time, it’s roots would cradle their child like they had, but now for eternity. They did not speak to each other, even when Minerva tended to Michallis’ wounds, down at the stream. Neither of them ate that night, in their expanded tree house, nor did they share in warmth as they slept. Minerva tried at first, but sleep would not find its way to her eyes as she stared up at the ceiling. Only when the moon hung dimly in the sky overhead did she get up. Taking a single blanket, she walked softly to her Kellin’s room. And in the dark did she lay herself upon his bed and took comfort in his scent. It wasn’t her baby, but it would do. It had to.



Michallis found himself in the nightmare again. It haunted him ever since that fateful day. Over and over again, he was powerless as he watched Kellin die. He tried, in vain, to prevent his son from dying but no matter how hard he tried, nothing ever changed. Then he woke up, alone with the sun barely rising. Things just weren’t the same.

It had been two weeks since that fateful encounter in the woods and he was slowly recovering. He was still sore, but the bruises were starting to fade. Slowly he sat up and quietly got out of bed. He walked to Kellin’s room, like he always did in the mornings, to see Minerva’s sleeping form. She barely left the room anymore, causing him great alarm, nor had she said anything to him since. Every time he tried to initiate a conversation, he was never given any sort of acknowledgement. It hurt him, but he understood.

He moved past the door, and into the food stores. Everything was running low, for he had been too injured to do much of anything. Perhaps it was time to change that. He grabbed a slice of dried meat, and scarfed it down. Then he moved over to a rocky bowl, nestled next to an assortment of clothing. It had been a lucky find one day, out exploring. Michallis then bent over the bowl and used his hands to splash water on his face. When the water settled, he was shocked at his appearance. He was gaunt, his beard unkempt and overgrown. A droplet of water then rolled into his eyes, causing Michallis to shut them tightly as he fumbled around for a towel. When his hands finally found something dry, he used it to wipe his face of any excess water. When he opened his eyes, he found himself looking at a small leather shirt. Kellin’s shirt. His brow furrowed as the weight of emotions came crashing down around him again. He shook his head quickly, suddenly aware of just how many things in their home were of their son’s.

He began to breath quickly and muttered, ”No. Not today. Not today.” as he placed the shirt back down. He needed to get out of there, and since they needed food, he used that as an excuse. He grabbed Minvera’s spear, for his was gone and made his way down the tree. Everything was a reminder of his son, but perhaps he’d lose himself in the forest. For a time.



”Minerva.” came a strange voice. ”You need to wake up.” And she thought for a moment, half asleep, hardly registering. But as her mind broke away from dream weavers, she realized that it was not the voice of Michallis.

With a start, she bolted upright in the bed, covering herself with her blanket as her eyes groggily focused upon a tall figure of black and stars, standing over her. Instinctively she shouted, ”Michallis!” but there came no thundering reply and she was afraid.

”He is not here, Minerva. But do not worry, I mean you no harm. I am Orvus, father of Laurien.” the god said.

At the mentioning of Laurien’s name, Minerva relaxed slightly. She had not seen the woman for a very long time, she had almost forgotten what she looked like. But the appearance of Orvus jolted her memory. She lowered her blanket slightly, and narrowed her brow at the god. A god. It was crazy to think about, to even wrap her head around. She had no idea what to even do. ”Why…” she said meekly before clearing her throat, ”Why are you here?”

”I apologize for the intrusion into your home. I have only come to see if you still occupied this area, for Laurien’s sake. I owe my daughter many things, and she desired to know what became of the ‘Dragonborn’ as she called you. So here I am.” he said.

”I see.” she said quietly, ”And where is Laurien?”

”She resides in the Eye of Desolation. A place, far from here. She wished to come herself, but out of the two of us, I travel much faster.” Orvus said again.

”Well, um, here we are. Doing great.” she said with a fake smile.

The gods eyes narrowed slightly, before turning to a mix of concern and sadness. There was no doubt in her mind then, that he knew. There was no lying to a god, was there?

”Your heart weighs heavily with loss.” he said, bowing his head slightly. ”This place, now only a reminder of what was and what could have been. I know this grief, this pain and no one should have to fight it alone, else we be consumed by it entirely.”

She blinked back tears at his words and nodded slowly. ”Then how… How do I make it go away?”

”Time. And loved ones.” he said.

And Minerva’s thoughts turned to Michallis, wrapped up in his burly arms, safe and secure. She closed her eyes and took a deep, ragged breath. She knew not what to do, but nod in agreement again. She knew a part of her wanted nothing more than to blame Michallis, and another part of her wanted to hate him for the loss of their son, but she knew she couldn’t. It was irrational for her to think she could ever blame him for the accident, or ever hate him for what he couldn’t have done. Her grief was shared with him, after all.

”You know.” Orvus began, ”Perhaps it best if you come with me. The both of you.” he finished, rubbing his chin.

Minerva cocked her head to the side as she looked up at the god. ”Go with you? To this… Eye of Desolation?” she said thoughtfully. ”But… This is our home.”

”A home is a people, not a place. And Michallis is your ‘people’. Despite its name, the Eye is a good place, and you won’t have to be so alone anymore, out here in the middle of nowhere.” he said softly.

It was true, she could not imagine herself anywhere else without Michallis and as much as she enjoyed this tree of theirs… It would never be the same again. ”I… I need to speak with Michallis first. I can’t make a decision without him.” she said.

Orvus nodded in agreement. ”Of course. Speak to your husband. He arrives now.”

Husband? Was that he was to her…? She shook her head and got up. Before leaving the room, she looked back at Orvus, who said nothing, before making her way down the tree. Michallis’ voice was not far behind. ”M-Minerva! What are you doing!” he shouted, dropping the carcass of a deer to his feet.

She smirked, before saying, ”I’m coming down to see you, of course.” and when her feet touched the ground, she turned around to see Michallis standing before her. He still looked awful, but not nearly as he had been. She probably looked no better. There was silence between the two as they looked over one another again, and took in each other’s scents.

Then they both began to speak, before going quiet. Michallis gulped and said, ”You first.” Minerva was about to tell him to go first, but thought better of it. The dragon girl scratched her head before saying, ”I’m… I’m sorry for ignoring you, Michallis. I just… Needed to be alone.” she said, looking to the ground.

”There’s no need to say sorry. I… Understood.” the man said as he shifted awkwardly.
Minerva looked back up at him, ”There is though. You’re hurting just as much as I am, and what did I do? I shut you out, Michallis. I can’t imagine how I would feel if you did the same to me. It’s selfish, and I’m sorry.”

Michallis opened his mouth to say something, but instead gave a small nod. That wasn’t like him, but she found it strangely warming.

”There’s more. You are my love, Michallis. And I am yours. The only way we can…” she paused trying to come up with the right words. ”Make the pain and sadness and grief subside... Is by going through it, together.” she said, a tear falling down her cheek.

”Minerva.” Michallis gasped softly, before moving towards her. He then embraced her, in a tight hug and Minerva did the same. They stood like that for a long time, before Michallis pulled away, still holding onto her and said, ”I’m so sorry.”

”Michallis.” Minerva said, putting a hand on his face. ”It was an accident. If you can’t accept that, then we will never get anywhere, my love.” she whispered. Michallis leaned in to her hand, and shut his eyes. He took a deep breath, and then said, ”I’ll try.” before opening his eyes once more.

”There’s one more thing, Michallis.” Minerva lulled, half closing her eyes. ”Do you want to move?.”

Michallis furrowed his brow. ”Move? But where would we go… Kellin is… buried here.”

”I know. But we always promised him we’d go on an adventure. As a family.” she said misty eyed.

Michallis’ brow relaxed and he nodded. ”Okay. Yeah. Just… Where would we go?”

”The Eye of Desolation.” she said with a soft smile. And as Michallis kissed her brow, she knew everything would be alright, in time.





In Divinus: The God RP, Mk. III. Finished in Record Time™! → 5 yrs ago Forum: Advanced Roleplay
Awakening II




She stood upon the beach, watching the waves crash into the shore. The smell of sea salt was strong here, and the noise of the sea was oddly comforting. There was a slight breeze caressing her face, and blowing her hair back as she looked out into the far distance. Dark clouds were on the horizon, which meant a storm was brewing, but Rowan knew one had already landed. In her heart, and mind it raged on.

Not three days had passed since she and Orvus had spoken at length about everything. It came as a surprise when she found out the truth, the real truth behind it all. Her appearance, her emotions, her confusion, her children, Arya, Laurien and her husband, Orvus. He was a god, he… He created Arya and Laurien from but a thought and brought herself, Ava and Lily to life from a dream. A dream. She could hardly wrap her mind around it.

Galbar, the place she found herself in, was the material plane and her world was another reality entirely. She grew up there, she had friends and family there, and she met Orvus there. It felt real, and Orvus had assured her it was. Yet Rowan could not shake the feeling that something was missing. A part of herself, perhaps?

She was simply glad that Ava and Lily did not have to be burdened with such knowledge, not yet anyway. They lived in ignorant bliss, what more could a mother ask for her children? They were happy, and that was all that mattered. Arya and Laurien were no different. She was very fond of the both of them, and perhaps one day they would call her mother, but she knew that title belonged to two others. Regardless of that fact, Ava and Lily and began calling them sisters, and that warmed her heart when things felt so wrong.

Then there was this new appearance. Orvus had told her why the change had to take place, and that he was sorry he did not ask for permission. She wished he had. She did not have a problem with how she looked, she simply missed her old self, and her hair. And she missed her husband’s face. She found it fascinating that one could speak and be heard, without lips. But then again, he was a god after all, whatever that meant. That was the thing she could hardly believe most of all, that the man who was simply a farmer, had the power to create with a mere thought. She smirked, wondering what Hank would have to say about that.

But she found that coming to terms with what was truly real and only half real, was personally struggling. Maybe she was still in shock from such revelations, or maybe she did not know what to do with her new found life. But slowly, like the lapping of waves over and over again, she began to understand that it wasn’t so different. Like her world, the ocean still crashed into the sand. There were similarities. She could still be a mother, a wife and a friend. There was no changing that, it was her duty to look after her children, to protect them and watch them grow and learn. She could be a wife to her husband, and all that entitled, and she could be a friend to Arya and Laurien, for they were already practically family. It would take her awhile to really fit in, but she was confident she could.

”There you are.” Came Orvus’ voice. Rowan turned around to see her husband walking towards her, coming in the direction of the large house. He wore nothing still, much to her chastising. Even though he had no… Parts to show, one couldn’t help but try and not be modest to the world.

She gave a fake smile, ”Here I am.” she said enthusiastically.

Orvus tipped his head slightly, and hunched his shoulders as he walked to stand next to her. They both turned to face the approaching storm. ”You don’t have to pretend to smile, Rowan.” he said, turning to look at her. ”We both know you were never good at it. I can tell something upsets you, what is it?” he asked gently.

She sighed, and looked over at him, ”Pretending is all I can really do right now, after everything you’ve told me. I hardly know what to think, Orvus.” she said, leaning her head into his shoulder. Orvus then put a comforting hand around her waist. ”Something still feels like it’s missing. Like a part of me is out there somewhere. Are you sure you brought me over whole?” she mused, only to be met with a long silence from her husband.

”Orvus?” she said, moving her head back up to look at him. He did not look back at her, and his eyes expressed pain and her heart sunk. There was something else. ”What is it? Tell me.”

”I cannot. The answer to your question is… It will only bring you pain, Rowan.” he said sadly, finally looking into her eyes.

But she was adamant. ”No, you need to tell me, regardless. I beg you, please. Please. Maybe it can make me feel whole again.” she said, her voice breaking.

Orvus took both her hands in his own and sighed, ”For you to come to this world, to be brought to life. To live forever. I needed to… Make a sacrifice.” he said, his hands began to shake. ”I did not want to, believe me when I tell you this. I wanted everything to be as it was, but that could not be the deal. You… We... Are no longer capable of having any more children.”

Rowan began to rapidly blink, and she averted her gaze. She let go of his hands and held herself tightly. ”Ava and Lily too? They can never have their own children. We can never be grandparents?” she said, hurt.

”Yes. They will grow, but never be able to have children of their own. I am so, so sorry. I wanted to tell you sooner, but I was afraid of what you would think of me.” he said, reaching out to her, but she pulled away. She looked at him with a mix of anger and sadness.

”The fact that you think I would think less of you, make me so angry. How could you even think that? Why wouldn’t you just tell me sooner? Did you really think I would hate you for such a decision? We have children already, I would have understood, but now…” she paused, her mouth slowly opening as she began to shake her head. ”There’s more isn’t there? You would have told me, instead of me asking, if that was all that I was missing. What else are you keeping from me, Orvus?”

”Rowan, please. You don’t want to know.” he said softly.

”You don’t get to make the decision!” she said angrily. ”Do you have any idea what it’s like to feel like a part of yourself isn’t there? Tell me. Tell me right now.” she said sternly, crossing her arms.

”I do understand. I understand better than most.” he said angrily, before sighing. ”I had to take one of your memories away, and replace it, for your own sanity. I did not want to see you in so much grief because of my decision.” He took a deep breath. ”You… You were with child. Our baby, could not be brought over. So I decided that the baby… would be best-”

”Don’t say that word.” Rowan interjected, white tears falling down her face. ”Don’t you dare!” she said crying. ”How could you! How could you be so selfish? Did you think I wouldn’t find out! How dare you!” she said, covering her mouth as her world came crashing down. It all made sense now, the part of her missing, hadn’t been her after all, but their unborn child.

”Rowan I-” Orvus began.

”Go away.” she whispered, removing her hand. ”Leave me alone!” she shouted at him. Her husband blinked a tear, before he shot off into the sky, leaving her alone. She fell to her knees and gripped the sand before her as she wailed in grief.



It was later, on the cusp of the storm arriving did she a teary eyed Rowan hear footsteps coming from behind her. Soft steps, one that walked delicately. Still gripping her knees, she brought her head up to look who it was, hoping it was anyone but Orvus. And to her great surprise, Arya’s concerned, yet gentle face gave her a smile in return. Rowan turned her head back to the sea, her gaze unblinking as she kept thinking about that child of hers, and the life he or she could have had. Arya said nothing, but sat down next to her and watched the sea as well. The two stayed like that for a long time, as lightning flashed in the distance. The rumblings of thunder followed afterwards.

”Do you… Do you ever feel like you don’t belong? Like, your entire life wasn’t what it was supposed to be and yet-” Rowan began to say.

”And yet we live it all the same. The good and the bad, the ups and the downs.” Arya mused lightly, ”I didn’t feel like I belonged anywhere, for the longest of times. I was always trying to find a home, somewhere I was wanted and loved. It took me a long time, and I met people along the way that I care for dearly, but it wasn’t until I met Xiaoli, and Hermes on Tendlepog did that I felt those things. They are my mothers and I have siblings, and nieces and nephews but I left… A part of me didn’t want to, but another part of me knew that the world was out there, waiting to be seen. A new life, one that I chose.” she paused thoughtfully, as Rowan turned her head to look at Arya. ”I know you didn’t have much of a choice coming here, or how you came here, Rowan. I know dreams better than most do, and even if that life you lived was beautiful, it will pale in comparison to this one. Dreams are just that, dreams. Are hopes and aspirations, what we desire, what we can’t live without. That was why my father dreamt of you, because deep down, he desired the same thing I wanted. He wanted to feel something, anything, he wanted to be loved. And you do that for him. His decision wasn’t easy, and for that, I am truly sorry for your loss Rowan. I’m not a mother, but I know what it’s like to lose those that we care for, that’d we’d do anything for.” she finished with sad eyes.

Rowan felt comforted by her words, they felt good to hear, and even better to know that another knew what she was going through. ”Who did you lose? If you don’t mind me asking.” she asked softly to her.

”My crew. I was on a ship for awhile, doing a quest for K’nell, Lord of sleep and dreams. Suffice to say, our mission failed and I was the only survivor. I miss them.” Arya said, wrapping her arms around her knees. Rowan’s heart grew sad at her tale, and she put an arm around Arya’s waist as she scooted closer. ”I’m sorry for your loss, Arya. I can’t even imagine…” she let her words die in her throat, and looked back out at the ocean.

”Thank you, Rowan.” Arya said, leaning into her shoulder. The small display of affection was welcoming and Rowan began to relax. ”I was angry at father for the longest time. Ages in fact. I thought he truly abandoned me, and that he did not care but as time went on I learned that the world wasn’t always as we saw it. There came a day when he finally told me why he let me go. It wasn’t because he hated me, or that he didn’t care, it was because he didn’t think he was good enough for me. But I forgave him for it, because deep down, he needed me. He’s done terrible things Rowan, most of which was before he had the dream about you, but now, I don’t even think he could willingly hurt anyone. Least not intentionally, he’s still working on it.” she said with a laugh. Rowan could not help but give a small smirk.

”Do I even want to know what he’s done?” she sighed.

”No, I’ll leave that to him… Just be patient. He’s come along way, but with any journey, we start somewhere. Usually as a different person by the time the journey ends. I like who he is now, and I’ve never seen him happier than when he’s had you, Ava and Lily.” Arya said.

”That’s… That’s good to hear, Arya. I just… I don’t even know what to say anymore. My husband is a god. I’m in an entirely different world. I have all my memories save the one I want most of all and I look and feel so different then what I was before. It’s just a lot to take in.” Rowan said after a moment of thought.

Arya pulled away and sat up, then took Rowan’s hands within her own. ”It’s okay. This is new to all of us, I don’t believe something like this has ever happened before. We can get through this, trust me. I will help you, and Laurien will help you, and we will help out with the children. It’s only been four days since you’ve been awake, after all. No one said you’d figure it all out in a day, dear. And you don’t have to. All that matters now, is that you go at your own pace. Okay?”

Rowan nodded, agreeing with Arya. A part of her felt like a young woman again, being giving the same motherly advice from her own mom. She couldn’t help but smile at the thought. ”You’re good at this, you know and with children, but you are right. When… When do you think he’ll be back?”

”Orvus? Oh, I think he's flown off somewhere. He'll be back in time. But for now, let’s hurry up home before the storm comes in.” she said, helping Rowan stand up.

And they did.








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