Rheksas: A harrowing escape from the Mythos leyline and what appeared to be the subterranean manse of a vampire lord and his cohorts had led the group, now containing Lord Lorian Castellan at the helm, back onto the main roads. The sun yawned lazily across the sky, casting vibrant reds, yellows, and purples among the drifting clouds as dusk slowly approached. The weather was fair, the breeze was gentle and cool. Esylana and team were mostly at the mercy of Lord Castellan by this point, with the dubious nature of Rheksas’ current allegiance only compounding her problems. Speaking of which, the warrior in black took it upon himself to represent the party at its front, his keen eye scouting the horizon for whatever tickled his fancy. “Where do you mean to take us, Castellan?” he inquired of Valanice’s lord, not bothering to look at the man or refer to him by either his title or his first name. Perhaps it was an old military habit. “I need to know we’ll be keeping our prize safe from the empress’ predations.”

Rakarth: *The Castellan was quiet for a good portion of the trip back, keeping to himself mostly as he'd go over the plan in his head countless times without really explaining it to anyone. Rheksas inquired about where he'd be taking them before he'd reply without any hesitation* "Cyranos..I've got a Villa there in which the Black Knights and men of Valanice are occuping as we speak, upon entering it we'll be able to give Esylana aid and furthermore i'll be able to inform the populace of the desire to activate the leylines, she'll have support of the Empire and i'll be in a position of power through the people." *Lorian then glanced to Rheksas before adding* "Once that's done the Empress will no doubt want her in which I come in and utilise the new found power to bring her down to a more..Suitable playing field, discussing terms on how Esylana will be supported and she'll bring no harm to her unless risk complete seperation from Valanice, open war would be unwise for her as i'd be able to access her already huge amount of enemies and eliminate her without any issue.." *The man stated as he planned to travel by Pegasai, the lot resting for the time being with them at the back trodding along* "I assure you Rheksas that i've taken the liberty of assuring the safety of everyone here bar myself.." *Lorians kept moving along, allowing the Pegasai chance to rest their wings*

CrystalOnyx: -Hildria has been silent ever since they left the caverns, her eyes not evening looking up from the ground. She would sometimes pick her head up to glance around and even look to Esylana who was still in her arms. She held the broken woman close, but as gentle as she could manage. The blanket they had taken was wrapped around Esylana covering her much as possible. Hildria blamed herself and in her mind she was mentally beating herself. Her face looked blank, but her golden eyes said everything. Sorrow, anger, dissappointment. There was nothing she could really do for her friend until they got to place where they could medically treat her. Hopefully the brave mortal could hold on until then.-

Esylana: Esylana slept. Or tried to, -really- tried to. It was her only relief from the pain that riddled her body at the moment, and she did not feel like doing much else than leaning into Hildria and letting the woman support her. Her thoughts were her own, she didn't speak, though on the one occasion, she had briefly asked for one of the purple leaves that were still left in her bag. It brough a relief from the sources running through her at least, but even that would be gone soon. Her limbs were haphazardly bound in temporary splints, and her bruises still sharply discolored her skin. She briefly opened her eyes a moment, before closing them again. Sleep would save her from the physical pain. Now if she could only keep the nightmares at bay.

Rheksas: Astride a horse for a change, Rheksas trotted ahead of Lorian’s words, listening quietly. But something up ahead made him stop, and hopefully the procession halted with him, for Rheksas dismounted and drew his sword for some unseen threat. It wasn’t long before said threat came into view, and bow did it ever: throngs of dirty people filtered out of the trees and stalled along the road, dressed in rags, torn leather, and whatever scraps they could knit together. They were a disheveled mob, sporting cudgels and hatchets, one even raising a pitchfork he’d saved from his farm. “Halt!” called a man with the lone sword among them, stepping forth, either bravely or foolishly, to survey the party. He was a brown-haired gent with a deep shadow over his face, his lanky form hidden under tarnished bits of boiled leather. He raised his rusty blade to challenge Rheksas, but soon thought the better of it once he saw Valanice’s lord looming behind him on a Pegasus. Regal even on the road, there was not a soul among them who did not know Lorian’s face, nor his colors. But the very real problem now was Rheksas – Rheksas and his nigh insatiable lust for blood. The warrior was positively giddy, strolling with dangerous good cheer towards the man, his Sword of Grudges in hand. Then he stopped rather suddenly, a wise idea striking his brain like lightning. “Lord Castellan,” he introduced, hanging back to see what Lorian would say to this mob.

Rakarth: *Lorian kept upon it with soft glances to Rheksas before he dismounted from his horse, something was ahead? It didn't take long for those sapphire hues to fall upon the men whom were wearing nothing but rags, having little weaponry and whilst time was against him he couldn't have Rheksas butcher the people without first attempting a more diplomatic route. It was odd to see Lorian dismount the pegasus to show a form of wanting to deal with this issue personally, the left hand still being damaged without proper treatment so it took him a minute before shifting the chestnut locks out of his face. Part of him wanted this not to be some form of ambush presented by Rheksas as he'd begin a soft stride toward the poor excuse for a rebellion, commanding yet soft voice leaving his soft lips* "I'm Lord Castellan, ruler of Valanice..I'd like to know why you're all here with this attempt of intimidation on one of the main roads instead of working for your families and in turn your sakes?" *The man asked with genuine curiosity in his voice*

CrystalOnyx: -Hildria almost didn't stop, but as she noticed the men dismounting their steads she stopped. She moved around to the side where she could have a better look, soon seeing the group of people in rags. There was nothing she wanted to do so she hung back, still holding Esylana as her eyes glanced down at the woman. She could see the pain the woman's face even though she slept. She had noticed the many times that Esylana would open her eyes and immediantly close them. She wished there was more she could do, as of right now she would again let the men do the talking. She didn't know if Esylana was awake or not, but she proceeded to talk quietly.- "Esylana, are you thirsty? Do you need anything?" -Her voice was low and almost motherly as she stole glances at the engagement a head.-

Esylana: She opened her eyes briefly again, but this time she didn't close them. She looked up at Hildria, as best she could, and then gave a small, just the smallest, shake of her head. But she heard the distant commotion - it was different than the sound of the procession making its way home, and she noted they'd stopped. "A...leaf...please?" It was all she said, even as a part of her wanted to see what was going on.

Rheksas: “I’m called Hob, m’lord. Soldier who went back to metalworking once his duty was done,” explained the frontman, strangely polite even with his sword out. The others gripped their makeshift weapons cautiously, watching the exchange. They could hardly be described as armed, this lot, for they equipped themselves with little more than workman’s tools. Still, in this concentrated a group, their numbers could bring any man to pause. Rheksas took a swift headcount, spotting twenty-eight that he could readily see. “We are the refugees who fled the eruption of Mt. Hecate, forced to abandon our homes in Devlin and lesser Espanino to take shelter in other realms. We… have not been treated kindly. No one will take us in now,” he explained, proving himself the most well-spoken of their group. “Someone told us you’d be here. True as iron trusts, you are,” he began, narrowing his eyes past Lorian. “And if you have the traitor Esylana with you, that would be even better.” Hob couldn’t actively see the woman in question, but if he had to guess, the person wrapped in blankets might be her. “Still, I’m afraid I have to ask you to lay down your arms and come with us. We… we make to take you ransom, m’lord. Only so’s we can gather coin to rebuild our lives. Do nothing rash – we are many and you are but few.” Rheskas, taking this all in, stood squarely in Hob’s way. “Let me make an example of this one,” he grinned, calling out to Lorian over his shoulder. It didn’t take a genius for one to know the man was smiling, even if he couldn’t see his scarred face in the act.

Rakarth: *Soft chuckle escaped the young Castellans lips as a sudden sharp glance was offered to Hob, his voice one of intruige before he'd state softly* "Paitence Rheksas..These men are desperate and desperation can cause people to act in rather rash and idiotic ways, it's clear that the bounty on my own head is something of an interest to me as the only people aware of my operation here were the Empress and her handmaiden." *He openly stated before taking a rather confident step forward* "Hob..I'd like to extend my working hand to you and the rest of your associates to live in Valanice with fully paid jobs being given to you along with housing, such can come to you and those that you're with along with any family members if you'd so kindly give me the information of whom has informed you..It's all I ask." *The man was polite oddly enough before the stern nobleman swept in like a hawk and it's prey* "Failure to comply will result in your health being placed in jeoprady..For you've not got the men, supplies, equipment or skills required to take on my champion to further add to this rather interesting request you've made of me, please take this as an act of mercy on my part..The next man to ask for your compliance in what I seek will be this one." *With that he'd take a step back allowing Rheksas to be fully shown in his dominance and power.*

CrystalOnyx: -On hearing Esylana's request, she carefully sat down on the grass and placed Esylana in her lap. Her arm was still supporting the woman's head and back as her other arm slipped out from under Esylana and into the bag on her side. She searched for the pouch containing the purple leaves and soon plucked one out. There wasn't many left, but hopefully they would be moving soon. She held the leaf near Esylana's mouth and waited for the woman to open it before sticking the leaf in. Her sorrow filled eyes glanced over the woman's face as she tried to not move the broken woman much. Her gaze soon turned to the mob as she only heard a few of the words that were passed back and forth. She would remain sitting for the moment, resting her legs as she pulled the axe from her back and laid it beside them on the ground.-

Esylana: The jostling, as slight as it was, was enough to set the tears to her eyes again, but she forced a smile, trying not to worry the poor woman helping her anymore than she already had - she felt guilty along with everything else. The leaf was bitter, then sweet, followed by the instant relief. A relief that highlighted the pain in her arm and leg. But at least she wasn't dealing with the migraine any longer. "Thank you...what's happening?" she asked softly, making an effort to be better, somehow.

Rheksas: Lorian could see it in Hob’s eyes: this man truly considered his offer for a time. His face contorted through several pained emotions before coming to a grim conclusion, his resolve steadily evident. That didn’t seem to matter to Rheksas, who took a single step in the peasant soldier’s direction. This was enough to spook him into attacking, a hasty overhead blow his first resort. Rheksas rolled in underneath his strike, cutting into his cut. Their blades met in such a way that the Sword of Grudges, by a simple turn of its wielder’s wrists, angled the tip facing forward. A dainty push slid the blade forward, poking Hob right into the eye. The soldier reeled back with a scream, his eyeball coming off on the tip of Rheksas’ blade. A hand went to his gaping socket, blood seeping through the cracks between his fingers as he thrashed on the ground. Rheksas, wanting very much to assume the role of devil, drew the organ to his mouth and bit it clean off his weapon. A thoughtful chew ensued, followed by a pronounced swallow as the black-clad warrior devoured the man’s own orb. He then proceeded to hold his arms out, the maniacal rictus grin on his face all but challenging anyone else to step forward. As of then, the group was stunned, but their silence did not hold for long. Some were edging closer, desperation taking the place of bravery.

Rakarth: *Lorian didn't even flinch as the man decided to come for an overhead blow toward the Lord, showing faith in Rheksas as he'd come by and do what he did best..Stamping out rodents. A look of dissapointment began to wash over his face as Hob was brutally shoved back and his orb devoured by Rheksas as he'd allow it to sink in for a moment before the soft tone had long dissipated into one of command and dominance* "Those who wish to survive this encounter and still accept the offer i've presented to you all, kneel and give me the information I desire..Those who believe themselves worthy and capable enough in taking my companion here you may go ahead to your hearts content but the consequence shall be something alot more terrible than that of Hob here." *He gave them an offer but it was refused, now for everytime he was going to speak further to these insects they'd have to pay a heftier price. Lorians sharp tone echoed out with a voice as cold as ice* "So I suggest you submit..Now.."

CrystalOnyx: -Seeing the slight relief in the woman's face brought a small smile to Hildria's face. She soon looked up at the sudden commotion as she witnessed Rheksas place an eye into his mouth? Hildria could only blink as she didn't know what had happened to make him take someone's eye. She shook her head softly as she glanced back down to Esylana.- "I'm afraid I wasn't paying much attention, I believe these people wanted to take us and use us for coin. I'm entirely sure, but I think it is just best not to tell you what just happened." -She wasn't grossed out, but more amused than anything. A soft chuckle escaped her lips.- "These mortal men are even more different than I expected." -Her eyes wandered back to the men as they continued to speak to the group of people.-

Esylana: Esylana had a brief expression of confusion, before she gathered herself and tried, with her good hand, to shift the blanket aside so she could see. Her body was definitely protesting, but the purple leaves had helped her feel well enough that curiosity was just a little bit stronger than the pain. She tried to see, but the angle they were at, on the ground, made it impossible, really. Though shifting the blanket aside might make it easier for them to see her. It hadn't occured to her that this might be a problem. "What happened, Hildria? Please, don't keep me in suspense..."

Rheksas: A man charged over fallen Hob, wailing at Rheksas with his axe. The warrior, having re-assumed his low back-guard, stepped aside from the first two blows and let his sword whir up into his armpit, severing his right arm at the shoulder. He fell away in a bloody, screaming heap. No sooner was there another of the mob, swinging his cudgel with reckless abandon. But he was woefully underprepared to face a man with Rheksas’ training, and it showed when the warrior, seamlessly moving into another guard, sundered the club in two. The sorry sap barely saw the Sword of Grudges come back around, slashing a wide, angry crevasse into his gut. With so fine a cut, it was all he could do to try and keep his entrails from spilling out in steaming, ropy coils. Nevertheless, the cascade of blood was satisfying to Rheksas, who lazily kicked the man over and went in search of his next foe. None was forthcoming – at least not from what he could see. An angry couple flanked Lorian from the trees, one hurling his hatchet for the man whilst the other, a thick-armed woman, went to bash his Pegasus with her, well, her hammer. It was a simple work hammer, by the look of it, and his flying horse must’ve looked the part of a nail. For Hildria, the man with the pitchfork came charging in, yelling about something or another. His posture made it clear he meant to run her through. Two desperate looking young women came for Esylana with kitchen knives, having little else to their names but determined to see the women unblanketed and set bare before the world.

Rakarth: *Lorian kept his sapphire hues ahead of him, the smell of blood that filled his nostrils only brought a soft smile upon his face as Rheksas butchered those infront of him with little to no difficulty, it was like watching a master artist utilising his brush fully aware of what he wanted to paint and how to do it. Beautiful artform it truly was but it wasn't long before something caught his attention to the left of him but the man didn't bother in flinching or going for his blade but simply let the moisture in the air solidify rapidly before creating a wall of water that felt like iron as the hatched impacted and stopped. The man must have looked horrified as the Lord didn't bother to gaze upon the poor creature, desperation was something he detested and this was simply wasting time..How..Bothersome. Lorian finally began to move as his left hand began to raise out of it's sling with little expression coming across his face as he'd let the wound open up just a inch as the crimson liquid shot out like a barb, the iron in his blood sharpening the pressurized string of blood that was aimed directly at the poor mans heart. Upon impact it'd shred through and impale his heart as he'd let it linger there for a moment, retracting it with little effort at all as it returned to his wrist and the man would fall to his knees and then onto his back, clutching at the miniscule opening that the blow left with blood dripping from his lips. A shriek came from the animal that he mounted as he'd turn, chestnut hair flowing softly as his attention came upon the..Woman? Oh dear. The man began a rather soft stride toward her with a look of..Boredom? Irritation? It was hard to tell but he'd be a sight that was for sure.*

CrystalOnyx: -Hildria noticed the incoming people ready to attack them. She was going to protect Esylana as best as she could. She shot up from the ground, trying not to jossle the poor woman too much. She moved away from them and soon placed Esylana gently against a tree. She soon turned and approtched the man with the pitchfork. With little effort she grabbed the wood of the handle right behind the spears of the pitchfork, pulling it from his hands. As for the women whom seemed to target Esylana, she moved swung the wooden handle of the pitchfork into their chests to bat them away. The force was enough to knock them down and back a few feet.-

Esylana: Esylana winced as she was laid against the tree, but then her eyes widened as she got a MUCH better view of what was going on. And it was pure carnage and bloodshed. Her voice caught in her throat as she watched these desperate people trying to fight and subdue the group she was with, and it was a moment, before she tried to call out, "No...wait, stop..." But of course, no one would listen to her. Would they? "Please, please stop..." The blanket around her had fallen around her shoulders, her copper-hued hair and freckled-face would surely be visible to the mob by now.

Rheksas: In a large radius around the black-clad warrior, a wellspring of terror exploded like a mighty gust of wind, harrowing the group and all but flattening the mob with its sheer intensity. Fear and sadness enveloped them in unison, causing peasants to drop to their knees and sob, throw away their weapons, stammer uselessly against Rheksas, or flee outright. “Well?” he chided them, taunting them with that sadistic, unfeeling grin. With those crooked but perfectly white teeth. The fight in them was lost, for the most part, though some clutched their tools stubbornly, looking to the group with a more wary eye than before. After seeing what they could do, none were too keen on continuing the assault. Still, Hob clambered slowly to a knee, covering his missing eye. “Monsters… you would turn your weapons on us poor folk? What have we done to you besides… attack you and possibly try to kill you?”

Rakarth: *Lorian kept his stride toward the woman with his right hand coming to grip Mizu's pommel but he was interrupted by a huge shockwave of..Despair? The rodents around him began to drop and shake out of fear but Lorian was oddly affected by it aswell without him realising, soft voice that could be heard by those around him escaped his lips as it was..Oddly laced with despair? A form of sadness that had never been shown by Lorian* "Why are people incapable of understanding me?.." *He stared at the woman before Hobs voice broke this wave of sadness as he'd turn on his feet beginning a soft walk toward him, he didn't speak until he was standing right over him.* "Tell me who informed you of my location?" *A powerful and commanding voice thoomed over Hob without need to threaten him any longer*

CrystalOnyx: -As the women fell to the ground, their knives fell from their hands. She soon took a hold of the tool with both hands and broke the handle over her knee with little force. She walked over and picked up her axe from the ground and placed it on her face before returned to Esylana. She had noticed that ominious feeling of Rheksas' aura though it didn't reach them. She watched as the people fell like flies or even ran away from the area. She kneeled down next to Esylana, her eyes softened now.-

Esylana: That aura, that wave of despair, she let it wash over her and in a sense, it was cleansing. She briefly embraced it, for while it was heavy and reminded her of the hours in the dark, she also was reminded of how she'd stood against this same wave in the desert. She didn't need to embrace her darker memories, she'd already lived through them, and she stood- well, sat- strong through this aura. But then she heard it...Lorian's words. And something inside her echoed a...familiarity. She frowned, looking at the Valanice Lord as he approached the people. The killing, much to her relief, had stopped.

Rheksas: “Fu…fuck you,” spat Hob, earning him a hard rap to the back of his head by Rheksas. “Now now,” chuckled the warrior, coming up behind the kneeling Hob. “Be sure to keep your manners around the nobility.” What was left of the mob closed in, apparently having ascribed some value to their impromptu leader’s life, but Rheksas was there with his Sword of Grudges, lining up the blade to the side of his neck. “Let’s try this again, shall we?” All eyes were on Hob. Would he betray their benefactor? Would he die with ill-conceived honor? Their assailants’ next decision seemed to hinge on what he did next.

Rakarth: "Answer me and the rest of this rabble will be spared..I won't ask again." *Lorian stated with little emotion or compassion in his voice, showing he was more than serious in slaughtering everyone here to obtain the information he desired.*

CrystalOnyx: -Hildria only watched now, her gaze soon turning to Esylana.- "Do you wish to move closer?" -This must have been hard to see as they were only poor people in rags with farm weapons.-

Esylana: She suddenly realised she was crying, and her good hand come up to wipe the tears away as she shook her head. "No...no, let's stay here...I don't want...I don't want to disturb this...I don't want to startle people into acting foolishly again." She placed her hand against her mouth, watching with bated breath.

Rheksas: Hob broke under the pressure. “Father Thayde came to us,” he choked, “told us the poor in spirit are blessed, and theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Told us those who mourn shall be comforted. Are we not both?” Rheksas, looking a tad disappointed with his answer, popped poor Hob over the head again. “Details,” he barked. And details he got. Father Thayde, according to Hob, was a travelling friar who preached to the people after the disaster of Mt. Hecate. He read from a strange book, telling the masses that they were loved because of their hardships, and that the gods were returning. He also whipped Hob and the others into a frenzy and sent them on the road after Lorian, though he knew not why this man had that sort of information. “Coward!” called out one of the women. “Don’t betray Father’s trust!”

Rakarth: "Location." *Simple and sweet again as he'd ask with little remorse in his voice, ignoring the cries of those behind Hob*

CrystalOnyx: -Sadness washed over Hildria's face as she saw Esylana crying. She only moved the blanket softly more around her so that nothing more show. Hopefully they would get moving again and she could question the two men.-

Esylana: These were refugees...from Mt. Hecate...her heart sank. This was her fault...all of this, right this moment, was a far-reaching consequence of her fixing the leyline deep in the volcano. She simply bowed her head, saying nothing. But she did wonder. Who was this Father Thayde?

Rheksas: “He came from Imbala,” spat Hob, “but has been travelling ever since, he says. I… I don’t know where he would be now. He is never in one place for long… goes where the faith needs him, he says. His book, his Na…Nazak…fuck I can’t pronounce-“, Rheksas stepped in, “Nazakranoth”. “Yeah, it was that, he re-,” another interruption, as Rheksas knocked Hob aside on his way to Lorian. “This rabble is useless,” he said, the smile having vanished from his face. A severe look replaced it, a tad out of place on his mirthful visage.

Rakarth: *Lorian shifted his hues to Rheksas as he'd inquire softly* "You're aware of this? Hold that thought." *The right hand of Lorian unsheathed Mizu as he'd check the base of the blade for a moment stating in a tone devoid of any emotion* "As promised the rabble will be spared..But your life was never part of the bargain." *Like that a swift strike was placed into the already thrown over man, he kept it buried inside his corpse for a few moments before wiping the base of it on the mans clothing, letting it sink in of how little he thought of the man.* "Continue Rheksas..What do you know of this Father Thayde and this place book he's acquired?"

CrystalOnyx: -Hildria watched from a far as the man Lorian killed one last person. This was becoming more dangerous than she thought. Without even asking permission, she picked up Esylana gently and started to walk over. She kept quiet, but at least they could hear more about what they were talking about.-

Esylana: Esylana gasped slightly as Lorian killed one more, then felt herself scooped up. She was upset, for a number of reasons, but right now, more than anything, she wished she had the wherewithal to walk for herself. Her eyes flashing with anger and sadness, she still tried to hold herself somewhat upright as she was carried closer. She still, however, had nothing to say, yet.

Rheksas: Rheksas pondered for a moment, ultimately recalling where he knew this Thayde character. “Klaxivus Thayde is an enigma,” he began, thinking little of Hob’s death after so much blood had been shed already. The angry mob had simmered down to a quiet mewl and slunk off into the surrounding wilderness, doing their best to keep as much distance between them and the group as possible. Thus having defeated them, Rheksas felt he could explain at his leisure. “If I were to venture to guess, he might well be one of my people, the Zolerai. I know Klaxivus is not his real name, just how Rheksas is not mine. We guard our names from curious folk, because names have a power in them. The Nazakranoth is a… I don’t know how well to describe it, but it is a holy book? Except it’s full of awful things? Does that make sense?” he asked, running a hand through the greasy mop of his hair. “This Father Thayde is no doubt an Annihilation Cultist. And an influential one at that. It makes him dangerous. More dangerous by far than those vampires.”

Rakarth: "Your folk are rather interesting Rheksas..I'll have to speak with you over some whiskey and food sometime to discuss what you actually are further, consider my curiosity peaked." *He'd state rather casually as he'd then sheathe the longsword before letting out a soft breath of air, expression of thought began to wash over his facial features before he'd then offer him a firm nod.* "Power isn't magic or weapons not even gold..Power is the ability to alter the perception of those around you, people born with that talent are usually the most potent in the long run which means this Thayde will become an issue in the future..Once we return to Anthem i'll have people begin to scour for him, his influence won't go any further but what does intruige me is this book." *He'd state softly as he began to walk forward once more* "You'll have to inform me of everything you're aware of regarding this cult and what it's goals are, if we end up meeting this Thayde on our journey back then i'll be sure to assist you in eliminating him or using him as you see fit..Your words carry weight to them as if you truly believe he's more dangerous than Mal'khar then we've got to be more cautious but i've got an inkling where this man may have obtained his information from..The Empress wouldn't give such information to this pious individual but perhaps a Blood Mage under her service that considers me a rival would..How..Intruiging.." *He began to go off thinking of conspiracies and plots that could be formed against him and how he was personally going to reply.*

CrystalOnyx: "May we leave now?" -Hildria was getting a bit annoyed now as she adjusted her arms under Esylana's body. She was tired of standing around, though this person they talked about seemed to be of importantce. She stole a glance to Esylana as she shifted her feet around on the road.-

Esylana: The leaves were starting to wear off again. And her indignity at having seen lives be taken for simple misdirection wasn't enough to stave off the migraine as it started to return. She closed her eyes briefly, and shook her head. But...Nazakranoth. As a scholar...a woman who loved riddles and puzzles...that was a name she'd be holding in her memory for a long while. She wanted to see this book for herself.

Rheksas: Rheksas looked at Lorian sideways. “Didn’t I just say ‘Annihilation Cult’? I thought that was fairly self-explanatory.” He turned to face the road again, beckoning for Hildria to follow. “We need to get back on the road and onto civilization again. We’ll part ways for a time at the capital – I have someplace I need to go. Where will you be when I need to find you next?”

Rakarth: "Once the plan goes through Esylana should be protected by me in Anthem..I'll personally be there Rheksas, it's been too long since i've seen my home and my people." *He stated with a genuine tone of sadness, missing the people he was surrounded by on a daily basis as this entire journey had taken somewhat of a toll on him*

CrystalOnyx: "I go where ever Esylana goes." -She stated with a no emotion, glancing between the two men.-

Esylana: Her eyes were closed, she had finally fallen asleep - even if she could've spoken, however, it was clear that for the moment, she was with Lorian Castellan - it would be quite safe to assume she would be in Anthem when the time came. There was no reason to assume otherwise.

Rheksas: His smile returned. “Good, good. I need to go collect my wife, so I can bring her to Anthem. Provided all goes well on your end…,” he paused, taking the time to beam at everyone present, “we can reconvene and plan our next move.” Quite satisfied with himself, Rheksas once more climbed atop his horse and led the way. Funny how that thing hadn’t bothered to run away during all the chaos. Oh well. He kicked off and trotted happily along, thinking today turned out well.”

~Later, that night...~

Rakarth: *The veil of darkness above them was only pierced by the bright moonlight that shimmered and silently watched over the group as they had made camp for the night, Rheksas had took first watch and Lorian was on second as he took it upon himself to be part of it regardless, wanting sometime to himself..To contemplate..It had been interesting the past few days yet oddly enough the most shocking thing to come to Lorian was the factor that Rheksas of all people had a wife..Odd..Was he doing something wrong? The thought made a soft smile curve up across his soft lips as the sapphire hues of the Castellan were brought to the roaring fire infront of him, letting it take his attention for a moment before he'd go back to reading a book infront of him. It was bound in a leathery like substance and the title had a note underneath it but it was hard to tell what was written on it as of the moment. Perched upon a stone he'd silently read a few notes that had been previously written in it but bar that Lorian was quiet and to himself, it did dawn upon him that he had barely spoken to the woman that he had almost sacrificed his left hand for but it became abundantly clear that threat Esylana posed to Lorian personally, why the Empress had such hatred was not on his mind but what was on who she -actually- was..Mal'khar confirming him by utilising her title..He couldn't help but glance at the threat to everything he had built and allowed to linger for a moment before he'd place the book down, fingers running through the curls of his greasy chestnut locks as he sat simply..Contemplating.*

Esylana: She'd been coming and going with her lucidity, but it was getting easier to stay awake for longer amounts of time. She was down, now, unfortunately, to only five of the purple leaves. She'd been desperately trying to save them, knowing that if she had a chance to escape the Empire, she'd need them to keep the migraines at bay. But for now, she decided to suffer through it, in silence. Laying down helped. And laying down was about all she did on the way back to Cyranos. Right now, she was bundled in her blanket by the fire, and she had been asleep a moment ago. But the nightmares made sure she didn't get any real rest, and she suddenly startled awake, eyes opening as she jerked slightly. But it was over in half-an instant, and she lay there, staring at the fire. It was warm, it crackled in a soothing way, and she let that light be her anchor for a moment.

CrystalOnyx: -Hildria didn't know what to think of these mortal men, was power all they wanted? Dragging poor Esylana around like she was bag of elemental power just so they could still rule this land. It sickened her, but she personally had no idea where else to go at this moment. The night was calm, the crackle of the fire and the soft chirp of the crickets. It was almost like they were alone again, only this time she was broken and hardly move. Hildria felt helpless, lots of sorrow. These were feelings she wasn't used to, but there was still a mysterious feeling that she couldn't pin-point. She didn't even know what to call it, though she felt it with a deep passion toward this mortal woman Esylana. The movement from the woman made Hildria look at her. It must have been those things called nightmares again. Esylana had mentioned them before after the volcano, but it seem like they were getting worse. She sat on a rock, her axe next to her as they rested. She wanted to somehow comfort the woman, but didn't exactly know how. She remained where she was, her golden eyes now staring at the woman. Worry crossed her face, was there really nothing she could do until they got to where they were heading?-

Rakarth: "You're safe." *Silence broke with the soft voice of Lorian being the cause of this, noting her sudden jerk and almost instantaneous awake from the slumber she was so deep in.* "I'd suggest you go back to sleep, it'll dull the pain that's running through your body currently." *Lorian stated with no gaze offered to the sleeping woman, his right hand going to grasp a flask that was to his left hand before he'd bring it to his lips and take a rather large gulp of the liquid inside it before letting out a satisfied breath of air. He let his gaze linger on the flickering flames infront of him before placing the flask infront of Esylana, placing it infront of her sleeping position whilst quickly leaning over just in case she wanted some of the contents.* "Wine from Valanice." *Stating such he'd analyse her reaction to the mention of Valanice for the time being, wanting to see if the stories were right or not.*

Esylana: A wary look crossed her face at the offered wine - what if it was really "Empire's Kiss"? But...he'd drunk from it himself, and that realisation followed soon afterwards, as she finally nodded. "Just...a sip..." she agreed. It went down smooth, and the thoughts of Valanice, of Darshire in particular returned to her, of her home in the grove - of Alaihandra, and Crystal...and Zenra...she felt tears welling up, she had no idea how they were, where they were...and then she was murmuring, "I hope Alaihandra...is okay..." She didn't know what had happened to the woman after seeing her in the tunnels...that entire bit was still confusing to her, and she hadn't exactly felt well enough to try and work out what had happened in the tunnels.

CrystalOnyx: -At the voice of the man Hildria glanced over to him. She watched his every movement like he was a dangerous predator. Seeing him offer his flask was surprising, she sat quietly still watching them. Her gaze soon moved down to Esylana's bag. There wasn't much left and she wanted the woman to have whatever food and water they had left. She shifted her feet on the ground, the chains lightly clanking as she did.-

Rakarth: "Alaihandra and myself had an accord..She was going to bring you in so I could speak with you regarding your current task in awakening the leylines, she went back on our deal.." *Lorian stated with a rather ominous tone, not letting her know the fate of Alaihandra for a few moments before he'd state softly* "She'll be kept confined but untouched..The result was still the same just with a few inconveniances." *Lorian let a few moments to linger of silence between the pair before he'd then ask softly* "I didn't risk my life and left hand for a simple woman who was causing a few issues within the Empire, if that was the case then my life would have been lost long ago..I had my suspicions on who you -really- were Esylana and Mal'khar only confirmed this for me but you seem to be as clueless as most..You've got no reason to trust me but I request that you place some faith in me for I didn't want to stop you restoring the leylines infact quite the opposite..But I require to know..What do you remember of Valanice?" *He'd ask with a genuine tone of curiosity and odd suspense looking over the male*

Esylana: Her face paled when he mentioned he had Alaihandra - and it didn't seem to go away in spite of his reassurances. "Please...please don't hurt her...she...she's a gentle soul, she doesn't deserve..." she swallowed, her mouth suddenly felt dry and she closed her eyes briefly to try and keep the migraine from flaring up - stress was not her friend. "...Sorry...I...you all keep mentioning this, what's it called..Sae, thing? First this Oracle, and then that...vampire..." She turned her face away as much as she could briefly. "Valanice is where I lived with Alaihandra. In the grove, by the little village called Darshire. It was quiet, and peaceful...but...I couldn't just stand by and watch the Empire do what it was doing...we had so many people come through who needed help, and...I went looking for answers. And between my own knowledge of...well, magic. And what I read...I thought maybe I could help by fixing the broken sources. Obscure legends, you know...about the Pillars of Heaven, and the leyline locations..." She sighed. "It was easy at first..."

CrystalOnyx: -Hildria listened quietly, her eyes focused on the fire now. She would sometimes glance up to the both of them, but returned her gaze back to the fire. She fiddled with her fingers trying to pass the time.-

Rakarth: "Then you made decisions that could be considered diabolical, it began to weigh on your concious but overall you were aware that some sacrifices had to be made in order to assure the people could live better lives in the long run.." *Lorian almost finished it for her as he'd keep his lingering gaze upon her, noting the mannerisms and state she was in..The Lord Castellan for once felt sorry for she really didn't know? This wasn't an act or she wouldn't have told him about this oracle..* "Darshire was put to the stake about two and a half weeks ago...My apologies." *He stated with a tone that one could swore held a hint of guilt in it as he'd offer her a firm nod.* "We're changing destination..If you're not aware of the importance you hold for this world then you're not worth handing over to the Empress."

Esylana: She looked at him quietly, her eyes filling with tears. Darshire was...gone? It couldn't be...the children she'd come to know and love...the women who made sure she and Alaihandra had food on their table...the men who made sure they were safe during the hard winter months..."...I don't think apologies cuts it, Lorian Castellan..." She clenched her good hand briefly, before slumping, if possible, further into her blanket. "Where are you taking me, then?" He kept mentioning importance, but she was beyond caring. She wanted to finish the job...at the end of it all was her death anyhow. This pain was temporary. But exhausting. She needed the strength to continue on, and all of this was hindering. If he wasn't taking her back to the Empire. "Take me to the next leyline..." she suggested.

Rakarth: "My apologies is all that you'll recieve..Doing what I must to keep the peace was and still is my only concern." *Lorian stated before adding* "Anthem..You'll be returning with me back to Anthem in order to find out who you truly are Esylana. There are books about you, about your past..About what's happened before you were born in this life..The Leyline won't move so time isn't of the essence." *He'd speak softly*

Esylana: "But you don't understand...I don't care about that. What happened in the past..." her voice caught, and she suddenly -was- crying. "It isn't my past...it isn't me...I don't -care- what I may have done, or not done. Or about this...thing people keep calling me." She swallowed, looking him in the eye. "I'm -dying-, Lorian. That's my future. I've started down a path I can't go back on, and the longer it waits, the more people suffer. The more -I- suffer...and I want it to end. I need it to end. They need it to end." She shook her head. "...I love to read...or used to. I loved riddles, and learning, and mysteries. But none of it matters now. When I fixed that first source...everything else became...worthless to me."

CrystalOnyx: -Hildria clenched her fist as she listened, she wanted to speak up; but really it wasn't her place. She didn't want Esylana to disappear, but this mortal was doing it for the future of this land. She wouldn't stop this quest as much as she wanted to to. She could see the pain and sadness in Esylana's face. It pulled on her usually stone heart, but this woman was slowly chipping away at it.-

Rakarth: "Pathetic.." *Lorian stated with a firm tone as he stood up from the stone in a blink of an eye* "You..Selfish..Inconsiderate creature..You've lost hope when you've gifted it to so many, you could achieve so much more than your narrow mind is capable of thinking but you're lost in self pity and guilt that you're drowning..Do you honestly believe that I of all people would come this far to find that the biggest threat to the Empire..No..To the very foundation of everything i've built, that I plan to built is nothing but a girl whom isn't considering the bigger picture? Your current alemant could be solved quicker then I can snap my fingers." *The man almost raising his voice as genuine rage began to surface into those sapphire hues* "You -can- become so much more than your willing to let yourself believe, fate doesn't exist..Destiny is a false conception for those that have nothing to live for will blindly follow..Your fate is your own to carve and if you're not willing to accept this, to accept the inevitble end then I should eliminate you right now." *The serious tone of Lorian couldn't be more bold* "Tell me Esylana..You die and grant the people of this world the ability to utilise magic..Well done..But tell me..Do you believe that will -actually- change anything? The Empire's strength will grow tendfold..The grip on people will be tighter as the very much organised and diciplined armies of the very woman that i'm seeking to anihilate begin to utilise magic far more effectively, she'll cut them down as quickly as Rheksas did the rabble from earlier..You'll do nothing but further the Empire in it's goal to bleed dry any hope of freedom left for this world.." *Lorian took a moment to compose himself as his right hand came to fix the attire he was wearing before slumping back onto the stone, whispering softly to himself* "Why are people so incapable of understanding.."

Esylana: His words gave her pause. And then she realized something. Something terrible. Something, that, while had been in her nightmares, she hadn't been willing to focus on, or grasp, until he raised his voice to her. He was right. The fact that Elleinad was in power meant...even bringing the magic back wouldn't change things. It could make them -far- worse. Especially for people who had never known the touch of that sort of power before. She didn't even know if the magic would really be free, or if it would be confined to the Master Crystal and inaccessible. And that could have even more dire consequences. Her eyes locked briefly with Hildria's. "...I'm sorry...you're right....I wasn't looking at the bigger picture." She finally looked back at Lorian. She hadn't cared about this past Esylana so much, but perhaps there was something there about her that could help. She already felt this land had separate rules than the one from whence she'd come, with Alaihandra. There was no guarentee that the Master Crystal would be something she was familiar with.

CrystalOnyx: -As the man became louder and seemed more irritated, Hildria was about to move between them. As it died down, she could only sigh. He had true points to his speech, though why did he have to be so hostile toward her? Her gaze met Esylana's before too long it broke and her eyes went back to the ground. She would follow Esylana to the end, hopefully she would do the right thing in the meantime.-

Rakarth: "If you wish to achieve the closest thing to peace and prosperity then you require to think alot more..The Empress is your first priority, not the restoration of magic in the world..I want you to begin to think on how to achieve your goal other than to throw yourself away to give the very person you seek gone more power." He stated without hestiation but there was something else laced with his tone, something akin to anger..Was this honestly the foundation? She didn't consider so much...Is this truely the woman he had read about? Either the books had exagerated who she really was or was it reincarnation? If she has no memory then perhaps a new personality would be born with each restoration..This world had always been one of intruige and questions but the more he pried, the more answers that was granted to the Red Tide the more questions he had..An odd feeling washed over him as his sapphire hues lingered upon the woman, his right hand beginning to clench ever so softly as a clear look of restraint washed over his well defined features before a soft shake of the head would rid of it.

Esylana: She was silent for a time after this, letting the warmth from the firelight soothe her raw nerves - this man was rubbing her the wrong way, but she wouldn’t say anything about it...after all, didn’t she owe him some debt of gratitude? And oh, how she hated -that-, too. How it dug at her and reminded her that she wasn’t powerful. Smart? Well...now that he had questioned that, it was almost too much. But she inhaled slowly, counting mentally to ten, before focusing through the pain. “So we’re going back to Anthem...and when we get there...what’s the plan, Lord Castellan? I read some books talking about...me. And...” She paused, closing her eyes again. There wouldn’t be any texts on the magic from the former world she’d been in, but... “Elleinad...I wonder if there is a way to return her to where she came from...” She looked over at Lorian. “She isn’t of this world, either.”

CrystalOnyx: -Hildria had moved in front of the rock She was sitting on and laid on her side. The fire warmed her front as she rested her head on her hand. She listened quietly as they spoke. What would happen after Esylana completed what she set out to do? It sounds like who ever was running this land would just collect that power and add to their own. Elleinad. This was a new name she heard, though she didn’t exactly know whom it was. It didn’t bother her though. She was tired as she rested her eyes a bit, listening to the crackle of the fire.-

Rakarth: He kept quiet listening to Esylana before her statement of Elleinad peaked his interest as a clear shift in his facial expression became clear..One of anger had become apparent before he'd mumble softly "You've granted me the piece of the puzzle that had been missing Esylana..Elleinad has an obsession with you a rage that isn't healthy for the Empire nor for her but it's become as clear as the night..You're both from the same place and have much more history than I'm aware of.." He'd state as if assuring himself of what he said but given the sound of otherwordly people he was rather calm regarding the situation as he whispered "Check.." Much like that of a chess game he had in his own mind, placed her in check.. "Plan..Once we've returned to Anthem you'll be able to rest, replenish your strength and obtain all the knowledge you desire regarding the past that has elluded you for so many years..Once you're restored i'll be able to make my choice.." Lorian gazed drectly at Esylana as he spoke his next words "Whether to bring you Elleinad or declare the beginning of the new Empire." *

Esylana: She watched his facial shifted to anger. She couldn’t help but feel vaguely...concerned. Not for Elle, however. Elle had caused her so much pain. -SO- much. And it was by sheer love and luck that a dear friend and fellow mage had managed to finally rip her free from Elle’s clutches. But then he mentioned making a decision, and she felt her heart stop. Wait, what did he mean? “Wh...what new Empire?” She furrowed her brow, trying to sit up better, but she was still sore, and the migraine protested her moving too much.

CrystalOnyx: -Opening an eye, Hildria glanced at Esylana.- “If you move many more you’re going to hurt yourself.” -She sternly said as she let her eye close with a sigh. Esylana probably wouldn’t listen to her, but at least the woman knew she cared.-

Rakarth: Lorian shifted his gaze back over to her as she moved before he'd reply softly "Change is required in order to progress..That change will occur with the Empress promptly removed from authority and all species being given an opportunity to obtain what they desire aslong as they work for..Slavery has become an issue, one which i'll rectify once i've obtained enough influence and information regarding her." He'd then quickly add "Tell me -everything- you know regarding the Empress."

Esylana: Change, and progress. Two words the woman would be intimately aware of, and the look on her face, of being taken aback, would surely not miss his inquisitive gaze. Tenants of a long lost god she could never please, no matter how desperately she’d tried to walk His path. She slowly exhaled, if ever Fate was working and weaving its webs, it was at this moment. She could almost feel it pulling at her, even now. And wasn’t change a part of Balance?...”I come from a world called Aegara. So does Elleinad...I...don’t know her whole history...maybe someone there does, but not me...there was an accident that resulted in an elemental vortex as things became quite unstable. I tried to fix them, using a staff I had inherited. But things went...wrong...” She hesitated, chewing her lower lip. There was suddenly a fearful look in her eye, and really, it was because deep down, she was suddenly terrified of telling him. Because when she’d told people back in Aegara, had asked for help...almost no one had believed her.

CrystalOnyx: -Hildria listened as she rested her eyes, her body shifted once in a while but didn’t open her eyes again.-

Rakarth: "Wrong?..I'm intruiged to what went wrong furthermore what was to become of this staff?" He'd notice her terrified look but didn't say anything as of the moment.

Esylana: “...The staff is gone...I lost it...a long time ago,” she inhaled, shakily, trying to calm her nerves as she finally continued. “There was a bolt of energy that went into the staff and hit me as well...and when I woke up, well...I wasn’t me. I didn’t wake up, Elle did...somehow, she had been trapped in the staff and her soul was...moved into my body with that bolt of energy. And it was a nightmare, fighting her for control of my own body...” She swallows, shaking her head. “Worst of all, only a very few close friends believed me when I told them I was possessed, because she...didn’t act like me. Oh, she tried at first. To get information, to learn about the world she’d woken up into, but...well, they found out. And those that didn’t believe me thought I was either crazy, or just...looking for attention.” She trailed off, whispering. She turned her head away, not looking at him now as she finished, “A powerful mage finally listened and understood, and he found a way to drive her out...I thought she was destroyed, or gone. But...I guess she was reborn here, somehow...”

CrystalOnyx: -Breathing softly, Hildria listened. Someone’s soul was trapped in the staff that Esylana had and when energy hit it the soul merged into Esylana’s body? Huh, now she’s heard everything. Though she could feel the emotions as Esylana spoke and she believed her words.-

Rakarth: The man listened to her with interest but didn't show anything else upon his ace. It wasn't until she turned her gaze away from Lorian that he finally spoke but not after a few moments were taken for him to process this information "People..Are..Hard to understand..Those who believe you were insane are those that arn't capable of seeing the world as it is..They like to believe that the supersticious are insane and if conflict occurs they'll scurry in the corner but the truth is Esylana..I believe you." He let that sink in as he'd slump back on the stone he was sitting down upon, resting his head on it as he spoke further but it was softer "Upon birth the people didn't expect me to be anything different than my father..Cruel, tyrant with little interest in anything but that pain in others..Whilst I can't relate with the idea of something else attempting to control me, there has been times where I..Don't believe people understand.." Something akin to a saddening sigh escaped his lips "In order to bring upon a prosperous peace..You need to instigate a era of chaos..Sacrifice must be made and whilst it's not something we enjoy..We have to make the choices others are afraid to in order to obtain the greater peace."

Esylana: “...How can people label something that has just come into existence? Those people were wrong...you were an infant...how dare they push the sins of the father upon...” She sighed, hearing his own sigh. Judgement. To be judged. It was all she’d known, and she had a feeling that it was the same, for him. “...Elleinad was always interested in power. And here, it sounds like she finally got it...she won’t give it up, not easily...” She pursed her lips a moment, before speaking again. “So you are willing, I take it, to make those hard choices. But...” She stopped, her mind wandering. How does that involve me? She wanted to ask, but felt stupid for wanting to. He had come a long ways to get her, and to remind her of a past life, but to what ends? If she finished the leylines, magic would return, and surely that would play into his Empire? But if he kept her from finishing it...the idea made her nauseous. She’d be suffering from migraines for the rest of her life. Or worse...she’d die, if he handed her to Elleinad.

CrystalOnyx: -Did they have to talk for so long? It was tiring just listening to them, but she didn’t intervene. She rolled onto her stomach and crossed her arms under head. She was still wary, but she needed some rest.-

Rakarth: "I've placed several things in place in order to bring her underneath my boot..Maticulous planning and paitence on my behalf will pay off in all due time..Your information has given me reason to believe that Elleinad is alive due to the Void Crystal." The man stated as his mind began to grind on this theory "She's directly connected to it..Odd I thought but it's become quite clear..You're brought here when the land requires you but Elleinad was forced here, in doing so she also took away the leylines..My conclusion is that the destruction of the Void Crystal could potential destroy the anchor that keeps her..Furthermore she'd need a new major power source to keep which is why you're going to end up being her backup plan..Restoring the Master Crystal with all the magic one could possibly imagine and more coursing through her veins.." He'd glance at her for a second, letting his words sink in before softly speaking "You need rest Esylana..If your illness continues due to the magic running through your blood..I'll relieve you of that pain for a certain amount of time..Too long you've had such a burden on your shoulders, alone."

Esylana: She didn’t need to be told twice, though she had to wonder what he meant by relieving her of the pain. She thought it better not to ask, it wasn’t important at that moment. She curled into the blanket as best as she could, her slowly healing bones still painful and protesting her movements, but she ignored them. Somehow, talking with Lorian had been somewhat helpful...to talk about Elle and what she had been like once upon a time...and to be believed...she’d find a way to fight against Elle, even if he did decide, ultimately, to turn her over to the Empress. One way or another, she would not - could not let Elle win.

CrystalOnyx: -Hildria had drifted off to sleep by now on her stomach. She had waited until she didn’t hear them talking anymore and soon fell into a deep sleep.-