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Concordia

Concordia

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Fantasy/Modern based role-play that will include adventure, action, romance, and whatever else we all decide!

4,182 readers have visited Concordia since LunaTalula created it.

Introduction

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Sorcha comes from another dimension that is quite identical to our world. They call this realm Concordia, meaning "Harmony". This realm had once been in a peaceful state, it's ruler, Harel making sure that every argument was settled right before it escalated into something far worse. His regions were divided into six different continents. The first, being ruled by his eldest son, Markell, kept to the north of Harels palace. To the east, were the lands of his second son, Keegan, Taran to the south and Tristan to the west. Southeastern region was ruled by Jaegar and the northeastern, Orlan. His youngest, a daughter by the name of Sorcha would one day rule over all of Concordia, for the youngest always took over and she would wed a man chosen by her parents. Harels wife, Trynna, acted as housekeeper of the Palace and obeyed her husbands every whim. After thousands of years of being in nothing but peace, Concordia was suddenly overtaken by a league of twelve men, who claimed Harel was not a fit King of their nation. Each members of this league came from each of the six continents, calling themselves the League of Twelve and since Concordia had no need of a militia, Harel and his wife were quickly overrun by the men. The two were murdered, and soon Tristan, Jaegar, and Orlan followed their parents to the Underworld. The other three brothers were captured and sent to another world, Earth. They have no recollection of their past and blend in well with the rest of Earth's people.

Back in Concordia, Sorcha was kept captive for five years after the league took over Concordia. The world was now in shambles, the civilians involving themsleves in disputes that turned into a multitude of civil wars. Animals were hunting down the people, and vice versa, just to have food to eat. Poverty and despair rang out among the nation, and the League of Twelve forced Sorcha to watch the endless ravaging of her homeworld. Sadness closed around her and by the time she was eighteen years of age, she planned an escape that would allow her to rescue her brothers. Using the help of her powers, she summoned the most loyal of her friends, a wolf by the name of Malikye. With his keen instincts, he was able to help the young woman escape her imprisonment and led her to the Chamber of Reflection where a mirror held the passage to Earth. Now, anyone who wanted to be transferred from one world to another, had only to say the name of said world and the mirror would transfer that one person. Fortunately, Sorcha had overheard the league of men say the name of this other world. After voicing the name, she walked towards the mirror and went right through it.

This is where the story would begin. If interested, reply or PM me and we will discuss it further! I'm open to ideas, so don't be afraid to ask questions!

Here's the names of the Gods and Goddesses of Concordia. They can be played by anybody, seeing as they are all NPC, just as long as it makes sense with the scene.

Concordia: Order (Harmony/Peace)****Wife of Imfamel
Imfamel: Chaos (Destruction/War)****Husband of Concordia
Halikair: Death
Parthenia: Purity
Cytheria: Love
Orthniel: Wisdom

Toggle Rules

Character Sheet

1.Name: Choose one of the characters I've mentioned or, with my approval, one you would like to bring in.
2.Gender: Choose the gender of the character you will be using.
3.Age: Their age. I will list the ages of the brothers and League.
4.Race: The League has a mixture of races, and they can be what you decide. Concordia has a multitude of races.
5.Appearance: You may choose the appearance of the character you choose to use.
6.Alliance: Are you choosing to play as one of the members of The League of Twelve or one of the brothers or the Hero or an additional character?
7.Personality: You may choose their personality, but keep in mind, the brothers all share one similar trait and that is they are very protective of their one and only sister.. They just don't remember her yet.
8.Occupation/skills: The League of Twelve are open to whatever skills you want to give them and you may choose to have them as leaders before they took over Concordia or woodcutters, miners, whatever you want them to be... Just make them evil. I am not opposed to magic being used, just none of them can be demons or Gods.


Characters:

Name: Sorcha
Gender: Female
Age: 18
Race: Human
Appearance: 5'3”, Slender, Grey eyes, dark strawberry blonde hair that hangs down to the small of her back, always wears a white dress that either hangs down to just above her knees or all the way down to her ankles, always walks around barefoot, and wears a necklace with a heart-shape pendant that holds a family picture of all her brothers and both parents.
Alliance: She is the future Queen of Concordia.
Personality: Sorcha has a fiery, but sweet sort of personality. She has been known for her mood changes, but it only depends on the person she is keeping company with at that particular time. She loves all creatures and anyone who doesn't endanger others. Her feelings are very tender and she hurts easily because of her gentle nature. Most take advantage of Sorcha because of this, but she immediately recognizes such tactics and gives others a piece of her mind.
Occupation/Skills: Sorcha has a few skills: telepathy, the ability to make things grow/heal, adapt to different temperatures, and can speak to animals. Powers she inherited from her mother are: the magic that will allow Sorcha to give her brothers back their memories (control over the mind; dreams, thoughts, etc), and the power to restore energy to those who are weak and close to death.

Brother #1
Name: Markell
Gender: Male
Age: 32
Race: Human
Appearance: Whatever you want it to be.
Alliance: One of Sorcha's brothers.
Personality: However you want him to be. Just make sure he is protective and loves his sister.
Occupation/Skills: Was the ruler of the Northern Regions of Concordia, but now since he's been sent to Earth, you may choose his new occupation and whatever skills he's developed. He will not have any of the skills that include magic when he was living in Concordia. He is to be a simple man, making a simple living or a leader, or, again, whatever you want him to be.

Brother #2
Name: Keegan
Gender: Male
Age: 28
Race: Human
Appearance: Refer to brother #1.
Alliance: Brother of Sorcha.
Personality: Refer to brother #1.
Occupation/skills: Refer to brother #1.

Brother #3
Name: Taran
Gender: Male
Age: 25
Race: Human
Appearance: Refer to brother #1.
Alliance: Brother of Sorcha.
Personality: Refer to brother #1.
Occupation/skills: Refer to brother #1.

The League of Twelve:

Going by the same character sheet with the brothers, choose the name, age, etc of the member of the League of Twelve you'd like to choose. You may choose more than one to play as. In fact, you may also use any other character to use because the League of Twelve will not be used that often, unless your character decides to follow Sorcha to Earth, which will probably end up happening as these men will find out she has escaped and will need to find ways of finding her and bringing her back before she finds her brothers.

The Hero:

The Hero can be any sort of man that you choose. Vampire, demon, God, etc.... But, first, you MUST run it by me first and say what your intentions are. I am not opposed to Romance developing between Sorcha and The Hero, in fact, it's preferred. What I mean by Romance is: limited amount of smut. Whatever sexual encounters happen, it must NOT be without romance. And it must be limited as well. We will discuss this further before agreeing to the roleplay. Use the character sheet I have provided and make this Hero what you want him to be.

Other Characters:

If you have a character in mind you'd like to bring into the role-play, fill in the character sheet and I will look over it. I am not opposed to adding additional roles in the story. In fact, it would make the story more interesting!

The Story So Far... Write a Post » as written by 10 authors

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Earth: The Hospital

Corissa was in the middle of holding herself together and not submitting into a sudden panic attack, when Will decided to make entrance. She could do nothing but stare at him as he came in bearing gifts fromβ€”Burger king?! She was about to hyperventilate and all he could think about was eating? Then, it occurred to her: Will had not been in the room when the doctor announced the need for a blood transfusion. Of course he hadn’t been there. Will was never there when she needed him most. Grumbling and wanting to so bad hit him with something, she only glared at him, refusing to eat anything. β€œI don’t want anything. I am not feeling too well.” She made a face, one greatly resembling nausea. β€œEspecially, from Burger King. They make me sick.” She was lying of course, but was too ticked off and stressed to think about the yummy goodness of food.
She decided to explain to her β€˜boyfriend’ the cause of her anger.β€œWill, the doctor came in and took a sample mine and Sean’s blood.” Here, she bit out each word, slowly, hoping he will get the message. β€œTo see if we match and to give me a blood transfusion.”

Earth: Ireland

β€œReicha has been hurt, Masaharu. I must see to her wounds.” She said before turning to Reicha, who now lay upon the couch with blood seeping into the piece of furniture. Sorcha was a strong healer, having known the skill since the age of five, when the Goddess Concordia bestowed it upon her. She knelt on the floor beside Riecha and, without saying to the bounty hunter, laid her delicate hands where the sword wound left her torso ripped open and bleeding profusely. Closing her eyes, Sorcha chants silently in her mind, drawing energy from deep within her soul and creating a warmth that first radiated throughout her body and then migrating to her fingertips where they glowed with a white light. The white light soon surrounded Reicha’s own body. With their souls now connected, Sorcha was able to find the root of the injury and mend it, from the inside and out. It wasn’t too long before the wound was entirely healed, save for a fresh, pink scar. The glow around them both dissipated as Sorcha broke their connection, and her body fell to the floor, as she fainted from the over exertion of using her magic. Healing took more energy than teleporting or any other magic she may use in excess.

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#, as written by Magix
The Hospital

Will was a bit upset at her response. He thought she'd be happy, but she wasn't. It was only a few more seconds until he discovered why though. He pulled Sean aside towards the door. "I need to say something to you...." He walked him over to the door. ".... Sorry for this." He shoved him outside of it and then shut and locked the door. "I need to speak with her alone for a minute." He said not knowing or caring if Sean could hear him. He waled back over to Corissa. "It seems I'll have to kill them all. We can't let the secret out, can we? Although you shouldn't need a blood transfusion. My potions are designed to regenerate the blood at a very fast pace. It doesn't make sense to me."

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The Hospital

She was quite happy to see Will take charge of the situation and practically kick Sean out of the room. Any other time, she would’ve been pissed at Will for dishonoring Sean in such a way, but kicking him out was needed at this point; she and Will needed to talk. When he walked back over to the bed, she had to smirk at his response. β€œKill them? No. I don’t think that is going to work, Will. Killing the hospital staff is not good. They do help people, you know. As for the blood transfusion, I don’t feel as if I need it. It’s all so strange to me… I am not sure what to do.” With each word said, the held back panic attack started to surface, her breaths coming in short, til she was nearly breathless and squeaking.

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#, as written by Aufeis
Ireland: Masaharu Can Stop Being the Cash of the Operation

Keegan caught Sorcha as she fell, gently setting her down against the couch in a sitting position, "Still don't know how to pace yourself, little sister." He sighed with a small smile. Reicha sat up and stretched. She felt really good, compared to a few seconds ago. Keegan knelt down and gently put Sorcha over his shoulder, walking out the door, "Alyssa, I thank you for all you have done for me, though I know not all of it was your own. And I'm sorry you were put in a position such as this because of me." He said. Alyssa only nodded. With Reicha in tow with Saige and Masaharu not far behind, they all piled into the car and Keegan drove, his mind in two different places. Part of him wanted to go to their next brother, but the logical sense of his told him that he had no idea where to look, "It is a shame, but we shall have to postpone our next rescue attempt until the morning when Sorcha awakens. Unless anyone else happens to know where our next destination is."

Reicha perked up an ear from the back seat, "Your brother Taran. I believe Vann said that he was in someplace called 'Miami'. Sorcha will be fine during transit, I'm sure." She said, though she could definitely use some sleep herself. It had been over a day since she had last slept, and getting stabbed like a pincushion took a lot of energy out of a bounty hunter.

Keegan's eyebrow raised, but it fell after a moment, "Miami it is then. We'll be flying in a bit better class though. I have a personal jet, so we won't have to worry about trying to sneak you on board a plane, my bounty hunting ally." At this, Reicha only gave a light hiss, but didn't say anything more. The trip was relatively quiet until they got to the airport and loaded the car up into the plane, at which point Keegan put both unconscious women into the sleeping quarters and made his way up front to the pilot, "Miami, Jeromy, if you would." Jeromy nodded and taxied out onto the runway. He seemed slightly unnerved by all these new people (especially the chick with all the knives attached to her) but he didn't say anything. She looked like something out of one of Mr. McTavin's books, so he figured she was some actress or something, though why she would be in costume now was beyond him.

It took a couple of hours to get back to the States, but finally they landed.

--------------------------

Miami: The Rematch

Keegan checked them all into a hotel, with himself and Sorcha in one room, the Earthlings in another, and finally, Reicha in her own across the hall from the siblings. Reicha sat down on the bed of the room. While it wasn't quite as lavish as the double bedroom suite they'd all shared back in Ireland, she didn't mind having a room all to her own. In fact, she prefered it, especially since she knew that Sorcha had other protection now. And the girl wasn't completely helpless. She let herself relax a bit, laying down and staring at the ceiling for a moment. The room was quiet. She could hear insects outside and the sound of footsteps in the hall; "Humans tread so loudly. They didn't even try to mask themselves," She muttered to herself, closing her eyes and letting them rest. All of her weapons were neatly stacked on the bedside table, making a small pile, though the knife in her hair remained where it was.

Vann had decided to postpone the trip to get Markell in favor of increasing his odds for Victory. Each of these people had to be taken out one on one for Vann could not take them out as a group. He wasn't sure what Valius was even thinking with such a ridiculous order to only kill after they were once again strong. Assassins' didn't work that way, although it was apparent Valius didn't know or care about that fact. This brought him to a hotel room. His first target was inside, the Huntress Reicha. He flew up overhead after getting a fix on her room. He wasn't exactly sure on if she was alone, and she did have that Nasty long range gun. He instead of barging in there, unsheathed his sword and tossed it at the balcony outside of her room, It stood erect, stabbed into the ground, as the blue flames grew brighter sending a glowing blue light into the room. Vann flew up high, much higher then she could shoot, if she could even see him anymore that is, with the cover of a bright full moon on his side. Now was just a waiting game. Would she take the bait? Did she hate him enough to fall for the trap that was all too obvious?

A noise from the balcony immediately caused Reicha's eyes to snap open and her head to pivot like lightning to the window. She recognized the sword alright. Vann. Seems he wanted a rematch after their last fight (which in her book had come out to a draw, though he probably could have killed her if not for Keegan's timely interruption). Every part of her being told her it was a trap, and based on the fact that Vann was all about speed, he was no doubt waiting for her to come out to investigate. Part of her said humor him, but the other part said to ignore it completely. He would be ready for the gun this time around, so there was no element of surprise in that aspect, and he would no doubt not misjudge her determination to get a kill, even at the expense of her own health. She went into the bathroom and grabbed a hand-held mirror, slowly opening the door and using it to check above the doorway and scanning the skyline with her own eyes. If he had thrown his weapon, what did he plan to attack her with? She leaned against the doorway, contemplating what exactly she should do. She DID have TV. How long could he wait before finally getting bored or tired, if he was suspending himself somewhere? She decided she would find out.

Vann flew down yet not close to the hotel. It seemed that she was just sitting there not taking the bait, however he half expected her not too. He took back up to high in the sky and stopped. He focused and blasted down at about 300mph grabbing his swords and crushing right through the stone balcony. The sound may attract more attention then desired, but Reicha would be the only one able to track him down. He flew back up with his sword in his right hand and a chunk of the busted balcony in his left. He raised it up and hurled it through the balcony doors towards the couch Reicha was on and then flew back. This time however, he didn't fly up. He stayed out of the being shot range, but she had a sharp enough eye to see him easy. Then he just needed to hope that she could do what she did best and hunt him down.



Reicha had just seated herself on the couch when the balcony outside was obliterated. She was a little surprised by this, since Vann was a more than famous assassin, and assassins were known for their patience. Then the chunk of debris flew through the balcony slide window and slammed into the plasma TV, sending cracks up the screen and making it look like it was bleeding. She scowled. Keegan was going to have a fit when she told him about how he’d have to pay for this. But he wasn’t going to be on Earth much longer anyway, so it didn’t matter much. She grabbed her weapons and suited back up, throwing the cloak around her shoulders, but leaving off her mask. There was no point hiding who she was now. She could see Vann off in the distance, just kind of floating there. Was he egging her on? Trying to get her to engage in a battle that could kill her? Every fiber of her being said to get someone to back her up at the least, but the bounty hunter in her smirked at the challenge, β€œHow sweet. Though I think Romeo threw the pebble a little softer.” She murmured with a dangerous smile before slipping out the shattered window and dropping a the balcony below it and a little to the right, and then finally to ground, the piece of rubble clenched in her hand. She took a deep whiff of the rock and took in his scent. Tracking him would be easy now, but he wasn’t hiding. This was a fight, not some child’s game of seek-and-flee.

Vann watched her get ready and whatnot. He could have rushed in, sure. But then if she did get backup he would have to just run again so there was no point. Besides he liked the game of cat and mouse with her. It always seemed to piss her off and for some reason he enjoyed that. He ignored her comment about Romeo and just shook his head. "Keep up huntress. We finish this today." In some aspects he did respect her. After all their jobs were similar, but she couldn't beat him on that hunt back then. That was probably a reason she seemed to hate him. He stretched his wings and cracked his neck, taking off to a less populated area. Without the huntress, it would take the others hours to find them. By that time, she would be dead, and he would be stalking his next Victim. The Earth boy traveling with them seemed easy enough prey. Vann landed on a beach where there weren't many houses around. It's not that he cared about the innocent; this was all to give her less of a hiding spot. Not to mention, sand was hard to move around in. Something someone that could fly didn't need to worry about.

Reicha followed Vann’s scent with relative ease (not that he seemed to be making any attempt to really hide himself) and reflected on her actions going back to when the two had first met. She had no expected another hunter to be stalking her prey, and as such, grew careless. That was her first mistake. Her second mistake was not knowing her opponent before calling him out. Her third and final mistake of that encounter was to not have held her guard up high enough. If she had been at fully wariness, he never would have landed that glancing blow, and this upcoming fight would no doubt have been easier. It didn’t take long before she noticed the change in terrain. Sand. A more than familiar terrain of combat to her. She smiled. Did he know nothing of the Relequiste, or was he simply arrogant? As long as she avoided the ocean, she would be fine. Best to let him think he had the terrain advantage for now. She β€œtrudged” up to where Vann was standing a few feet away, β€œYou’re quite persistent in my death, Leaguer. But it shall not come this day. I do admire your devotion to the hunt, though.” She called. She did admire it a bit, though there were also feelings of bitterness at their last fight. She had underestimated his regenerative abilities, but it would not happen again. There was also some weird form of respect, like soldiers have to one another on the field, even though they are on different sides.

Vann watched his opponent as she made her way to the beach he led her to. He watched her seem to walk through the sand with some difficulty. A bit too much for someone as agile as her. He didn't really feel like being made a fool of, and in all honesty her race was a pretty well kept secret from a lot of Concordia. "Cut the act, we both know you can move better then that Huntress." He wasn't lying, he just didn't know the extent she could move. He ignored everything she had said, although the leaguer comment was interesting. He was never called that before. Was it meant to be an insult or a show of respect though? He wasn't entirely sure and decided on a bit of both. He wasn't about to throw the first punch again though. He was doing her the honor of giving her a fighting chance, the least she could do is take advantage of it. "If you’re finished now, come at me. I am ready for your tricks." He was flying pretty much out of her range, and in return she was out of his range. It really was kind of a waste of time, but Vann wanted to see how resourceful she actually was.

Reicha stood, staring hard up at Vann. Her tricks? She had no tricks. She hadn’t even brought the gun this time (it was out of ammo thanks to their last fight). Although, he was easily out of her reach for the moment, and she would have to think of something. She could waste both of their times by throwing knives at him again, but judging by how well it had worked last time, she figured it was sort of useless. Instead, she knelt down and took a scoop of sand in both hands and opened her mouth, sinking her fangs into each pile and then spitting the remnants which stuck to her teeth out. She now had two clumps of rather poisonous sand in each hand. She cranked back and hurled it at him, the sand dispersing slightly as it hit the air, and with an added push from her own brand of poisonous magic, she pushed the poisoned powder up to his height, letting it cascade around him. It wasn’t enough to kill (because where was the fun in that) but it was easily enough to numb and disorient if inhaled.

Vann watched Reicha mix her poison with handfuls of sand. She was resourceful, but as she moved he didn’t notice the gun where she had it last time. She had kept her weapons in the same spot every time that they had met, so she must have left it behind for some reason. Before he could strike though, he needed to avoid her poison attack. He really didn’t care if her sand infected others, just as long as it wasn’t him. He knew exactly what to do however. He began to flap his massive wings. The gusts of wind they picked up was able to blow the sand coming up away from him and back to the ground. There still was sand that was to the sides of him so he had no other choice then to just move. He didn’t breathe in at all, he just flew upwards and then out over the ocean, dipping his wings in it with a spin to clear any sand they could have picked up. Once he felt safely away from the poison he stopped abruptly, a shock wave sent into the water pushing it back a moment. He put his blade back in the sheath between his wings and stared at the beach. A 300mph punch should be able to do the job of breaking a few ribs at least. She would likely counterattack, but he could dispose of poison in his body, and without that gun of hers he could survive pretty much any attack she threw at him. At least that’s what he thought. So with a burst of speed he rushed in and once he was close enough there were two punches to be sent. One to the chest, the other to her lower torso. It was likely she’d be able to dodge one, but she was pretty crazy and reckless when fighting him. Plus she was one tough bitch and could really take a hit.

Reicha watched Vann dodge her attack. She should have known the sand would do no good. She didn’t even bother moving as it fluttered to the ground. After all, it was her poison. She watched him fly out over the ocean. Was he retreating? Nope, only gearing up for an attack, it seemed, as water was kicked up by the flaps of his wings as he rocketed off toward her, his fists coming at her vitals. Considered the circumstance of the last reckless little sacrifice and her current situation, getting hit was an overall bad idea, and would likely kill her in the end. She threw herself out of the way, cart-wheeling as her hands planted firmly into the sand and grasping it, feeling the flow of it under her hands. As he passed, she let out a jet of poison from her fangs, like a cobra, and landed firmly on her feet, relatively unsure if she had managed to even hit the bullet of a man. She’d have to land a decisive hit eventually, or she would end up tiring and also getting her ass handed to her on a platter. She wished she had had the sense to find a replacement for the ammunition of the last fight, though she didn’t know where, one of the Earth dwellers could probably have told her. Of course, the thoughts hadn’t even entered her head. She pivoted in the sand, her eyes scanning furiously for where he could have gone.

Vann stopped after she dodged the attack. This area was useless in slowing her down, however at least she couldn’t hide anywhere. That would be irritating. Vann didn’t move as the poison vomit was shot at his leg. It splashed him but had no effect. He didn’t falter in his next move as she took her eyes off him after her attack. When she planted herself on the ground he was already out of sight and sped behind her swinging the blade that was now in his hand. He could have aimed for a lethal spot but he didn’t for some reason. Instead he just aimed for her lower torso once more, but she could easily escape with barely a scratch if she moved quick enough. Hesitation could leave her a nice gash, but even then it wasn’t a killing blow.

Reicha heard the beat of his wings behind her, β€˜Dammit! He’s quick!’ She thought furiously as she threw herself forward, feeling the tip of his blade cut into her leather armor. The blade made a nice gash in the leather, but luckily she had managed to dodge any wounding on her part. But he was so much faster than she had anticipated. With all that momentum, she was sure she would have had a moment of two before his next attack, but it was almost instantaneous. But the nature of the attack puzzled her…why hadn’t he aimed for something vital? He was an assassin; surely he had to know that even a successful slash there wouldn’t do much. She supposed she could puzzle over it later. She whirled around, uselessly swinging at what was likely nothing but air. He would no doubt be gone before she even turned around.

Just as he suspected, she was able to dodge it. She turned around with a dagger in her hand and she swung at him. He didn’t try to move he simply grabbed her arm with his free hand. He caught and held her arm as the dagger that was likely laced with poison plunged into his arm. He raised his sword up to her throat and stared at her with a cold and emotionless expression. β€œAny final words, huntress? Will you beg for your life?”

Reicha let out a gasp of surprise. She hadn't expected this at all. Why was she acting so foolishly? Making assumptions was something you never did in a fight. She grit her teeth irritatedly as the cold steel of his sword pressing against her throat, the blue flames lapping at her skin with almost no feeling. Her first thought was to blind him with poison if she was going to die anyway, but she held back. Instead, she simply said, "All I ask is that you make it quick," Her face was hard set and determined, "For I will beg for no living creature. You definitely live up to the League's reputation." She said with a smile which was somewhere between a smirk and a grin.

Vann stared at her and removed the blade from her throat. He slammed it into the sand and grabbed her by the throat. He twisted his arm off her knife and tossed her with great force into the ocean. β€œIf you want a swift death, beg for it.” After just moments in the water he pulled her out by her hair, although the knife inside if it pierced him and stuck into his hand. He flew towards the beach and threw her down into the sand. It would take her at least a few moments to recover.

He walked over and retrieved his blade, looking at the one that still was in his hand. He ripped it out and tossed it on the ground beside her. He then raised his own sword slicing open both the palm and back of his hand as well as the gash in his arm. He would bleed out all the possible poison before he healed the wounds back up, but it hurt like hell. He looked at Reicha who was not covered in sand due to being all wet. β€œWill you beg yet? A worthy advisory may receive mercy from me, if they are to beg huntress.”

Reicha was taken by surprise by the sudden change in attitude. He flung her into the water and she hit it hard, flailing a little and sputtering, trying to stay on top of the ocean's swells. Just as she started to slip down, though, she felt a hand grab her hair and pull her out, flinging her onto the shore. Where her wet body touched the ground, sand stuck firmly to her, but otherwise, she simply dripped, "I do not look for your mercy, I simply ask that you have the common decency of a civil opponent to make my defeat swift instead of prolonging it with torture or something equally senseless. But I suppose that would be above someone like you, wouldn't it?" Her tongue was sharp as a dagger, even at deaths doorstep.

Vann stared at Reicha as she laid on the ground. She was resilient, but he wanted to break her. He wouldn’t kill her before then, however he couldn’t let her and the others get to Taran, and he would get to Markell before them. He walked towards her kicking Sand in her face and then kicking her across her side. β€œTo fully destroy an opponent both mentally and emotionally is never senseless, huntress. Now decency, is a useless concept. Assassins are bound by no such thought of honor.” He sheathed his sword once more and looked at her. β€œBeg for your life, or beg for a swift death. Otherwise it will be long and painful. The only other option you have is to sell out the princess and Keegan. If they die, then you may live without begging. What’ll it be, huntress?”

Reicha hissed as Vann kicked sand into her face, before he kicked her, knocking the wind out of her. As he made his comments, she let out a gasp for breath, before growling, "Then you shall be hard pressed to break me, Leaguer, for I am of the Relequiste, and we are by no means fragile creatures. So do what you feel necessary, for you shall get not a word of pleading from me. As for selling out the princess, I made an oath, and that is not something we take lightly. I am bound by it to serve until I have died or her task is completed," As she finished, she swiftly drew one of the blades at her thigh and leaped at Vann, using her legs like a spring board. She hoped to catch him off guard, if possible.

Vann simply rolled his eyes as she spoke. An Oath? What a childish bond. You could trust no one in the end. He shook his head. Explaining how things were, wouldn’t help her ignorance. It was just a different way they thought, and hers was the wrong way. He saw her pull a blade but didn’t move. There was no way she could kill him with it since not even Scythe with his blood Rage could cut through his helmet with a dagger. He stood as she lunged, intrigued to see her next move.

The only bit of armor he seemed to wear was his helmet. Meaning that was the way to beat him and kill him. She drove the dagger home into the soft portion of skin between the two prongs that formed the mandible, stabbing up into the mouth, through the tongue, and into the soft palette. Unfortunately, the momentum she had was not enough to penetrate the skull's natural defense, and the blade merely stuck into the bottom of his skull. She let out a curse in her native tongue and skipped back a step, leaving the dagger embedded in his head. While wrenching it free would no doubt have hurt the angel, there was no point inflicting pain if it would not incapacitate him. She drew two more blades and held them up, defensively.

] Vann resisted the urge to scream as the blades penetrated his tongue. Blood gathered in his mouth as Reicha abandoned her blades and took out more. She was better equipped than a Swiss Army knife. Vann did wonder where she kept them all, but perhaps that was better off to be thought about another time. He ripped the knives from him and blood spattered out from the holes before sealing off. The helmet was still connected to his skull so that too regenerated once the dagger was removed. Vann didn’t draw his sword at all; instead he just flew forward and spit the mouthful of blood at her face. It was nothing more then a distraction as he got close to her and wrapped his wings around her giving off the appearance that they were hugging when in reality he was using the massive muscles in his wings to crush her. She would probably stab him but he didn’t care. β€œReady to beg?”

Reicha felt the massive wings close in around her. Not good. Almost subconsciously she wiped the blood from her face off on the feathery mass that threatened to crush her. She was standing inches from him, if that, and there was nothing she could really do. She forced her arms up and looked to the base of his wings, β€œWhat is a bird without its wings but a free meal for the cat?” She grunted, slashing at his left wing first. If she could just get one wing to relinquish its hold, she could easily get away from the other. And then get enough momentum to jab through the bottom of his damn skull, if she was lucky. If she was really lucky, the serrated blade would be able to cut off the wing completely, rendering unable to fly for however long it took him to regenerate it. If she could pin him and jab a blade up into his skull, she could possible force it through the thin nasal plate and into the brain, killing him. At least, she hoped.

Vann just stared at her as she tried to slice through his wings. She hadn't done enough to cut through the wing, but his wings always took longer to heal and it may make his flight a bit less accurate. He picked her up and tossed her into the air using his wings. The he unsheathed his sword and swung it as she was on her way down. She may not have been ready to beg yet, but she would soon enough.

She felt the sword connect, but this time if didn’t just bounce off her armor. That last hit had been a glancing blow. This one was dead center. It cut through the leather and pierced her flesh, severing it across the stomach. She let out a harsh gasp if pain as she hit the ground, hearing the sickening pop of her knee cap getting lodged out of place. She put a hand to her stomach, feeling the warmth that was spreading there, β€œIs that all I am to you; a sack of meat to do with as you please, just as the cat with a mouse? Well, I will not die here!” She pushed off the ground and lunged again, only faltering once as she put pressure on the injured leg. She was aiming for his head again, but fell short and ended up losing the knife in his neck, the small blade puncturing the windpipe and falling just short of the spine. She took a few more steps before falling down. She was running out of knives very quickly, and her injuries kept stacking up, where as his were nonexistent. She was going to die here. But she was going to cause as much pain as physically possible.

Vann watched her hit the ground and cringed as he felt the blade pierce his throat. He pulled the blade out and coughed out some blood into the sand. He sheathed his sword and walked over to her taking note of her dislocated knee. He crouched down next to her and popped it back into place. Still crouched he looked towards her face. "Do not go after Taran. Save yourself and start a new life on Earth. Scythe will kill you all and he is very unpredictable huntress. Take them or just yourself, and run."

Reicha's eyes widened at first, but narrowed as Vann gave his advice, "What does it matter to you? Only moments ago you were trying to break me. Have you grown bored?" She asked, though her voice betrayed her confusion. He was unreadable in the worst of ways, and she felt a weird sort of respect for him, though his morals and sense of honor were so skewed they seemed nonexistent, "Why are you telling me this? Why has the game stopped?"

Vann just looked at her with no expression on his face. She liked to ask a lot of questions. Ones he wasn't going to answer. "I do not kill for my enjoyment. I enjoy breaking the spirits of those I hunt. You are resided to your own fate however. There is no fulfillment in slaying one ready to die. One weak enough to not fight back. Perhaps there is part of you that reminds me of myself. Perhaps I respect you. In the end does it matter? Is the result not the same? If you wish to die the ocean is right there. Otherwise, I will kill you next time we meet. Next time I will break your spirit. Farewell huntress." Vann stood up and let his wings heal a bit. He waited there for a response as his wings finished bonding back together. The truth on why he had spared her and even tried to help? Not even he really knew.

Reicha sat on the beach, watching the swells of the ocean crash against the sand. She looked around at the blood soaked battleground and actually started laughing, β€œWhat do you think the humans who come back to this place for their meaningless recreation will think of our little art show?” She asked, and though she was laughing, there was curiosity, intrigue, and even a hint of respect in her voice, β€œMay we meet again on the field of battle, Vann of the League. And next time? I’m bringing that damn gun.” She said. Why was she giving him a heads up? She didn’t know, but she could not wait until their next encounter. Their next fight. It was exhilarating, as no other fight she had ever experienced, β€œI look forward to seeing you again. Wish me luck with Scythe.” This last part she added completely as a joke. She didn’t really expect him to laugh back, or even respond.

Vann looked at the blood as she mentioned it. "Allow them to recreate the show in their heads, or amuse themselves thinking they can. Those who fancy it, can enjoy it. In the end it really doesn't matter all that much. I would be more interested in seeing how the poison you've spit around here works out for them, but I don't have the time."He spread his healed wings, ready for takeoff. "Next fight bring your A game, and so will I. Be safe Reicha the Huntress. At least until I get a better match from you." He took off into the air and was headed for Markell now. There was no use in trying to face them one on one. He'd fail in the end. The only choice now was kill Markell or use him as leverage. The better option was not yet clear.

Reicha got up from the sand and began the long limp back to the hotel. People moved out of her way as she did, though a few asked if they should call an ambulance. She simply gave them a glare as she stalked back to her room.

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The Hospital

Will didn't like this. In the past if someone needed to shut the fuck up, he would just kill them. Why couldn't he just go do so now? This whole joining the brothers thing may be harder then he thought. "Alright then... I will go see if I can talk to the doctors. Maybe they fucked something up." Will walked over to the door thinking how "well" this conversation could go. Not very.

Meanwhile while out in the hall Dr. Aikenhead spotted Sean. It had been about an hour since they took the bloodwork (Will's Burger King Takeover took a while). He walked over to him and pulled him aside. "Umm, son I have something to tell you that may be a surprise. Your blood isn't a match to your sister. What I'm saying is, biologically she isn't your sister. You both lived in an orphanage so it's possible they mixed up the records or something. In any case though I will give you a few minutes."

Will stood by the door as he heard the end of the doctors speech. He unlocked the door and turned to Corissa. "You should have let me kill him." At that point the Doctor came in and walked over to Corissa. He told her the same that he had told Sean outside. "We'll need to run your bloodwork against the blood banks and see if we can find a match." Just then Will who was standing in the corner spoke up. "Call it a hunch but please make sure once more she needs this transfusion. I don't buy it." Doctor Aikenhead looked at him and just shook his head. He'd been asked crazier things before. "Fine to apease you I will, but the results will be the same. The nurses will be in in a few minutes." With that he left and Will looked at Corissa. "Well this is a predicament isn't it?"

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Masaharu unlocked the room and walked in, tossing his coat over the back of a chair and sitting down. He took in a deep breath and closed his eyes, his mind replaying what had happened in Ireland. He unstrapped his sword, propping it against the stand. "Well, at least we're back in the states,' he thought. "What a trip." He chuckled then laid down on the bed, putting his hands behind his head. Just as he was about to fall asleep, he heard his phone ring and sat up quickly. He checked the message and smiled before turning it off. 'He listened to me. Maybe I'll give him a promotion when I get back home.'

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Hospital: Thunderstorm

When Will had arrived with Burger King, Sean raised a brow. He had mouthed the words "What the fuck?" He shook his head a little to help himself get his own mind back on track. Sean's assumption about will would remain, as well as Corissa's strange taste. When Will escorted Sean out of the room, he felt rushed. That was getting really annoying, and Sean gave the door a glare before taking a seat in a chair outside of the room. He didn't try to listen in on their conversation, but he was curious as to what the Burger King fanatic had to tell her. Corissa had been stirred up by something, but Sean couldn't put his finger on it. She hadn't even reacted like he thought she would about the news about Paris. He sighed after several seconds of staring at the wall, until he spotted the doctor making his way down the hall. Sean raised up from his seat, knowing the doctor was headed toward him. The look on the man's face didn't seem as bright as before. It was as if he wanted to hold something back.

When Dr. Aikenhead dropped the news to Sean, everything seemed to go silent. Sean almost looked frozen where he stood; he didn't move, and stared blankly where the doctor once stood. His 'memories' came flooding in as the doctors words continuously repeated in his head...she isn't your sister...she isn't your sister...she isn't your sister... His hands began to tremble as the memories and the doctor's words clashed in his mind. Sean couldn't accept what he had heard... he wouldn't. When Dr. Aikenhead re-entered the hallway, Sean gripped the man by the collar and slammed him into the wall. He held his pistol to the doctors head, with rage in his eyes.

"I should shoot you right here!" That's all Sean could get out at that very moment. People in the halls were startled by this, but strangely, there were workers that told them that everything would be fine. Sean had so much influence Miami now. Sean breaths were heavy, and he ground his teeth. "You're telling me that Corissa's not my sister!? That I... That everything I've lived for was a fucking lie! Everything!" The safety was clicked from the pistol...

A loud booming noise was heard throughout the the hospital. Dr. Aikenhead's body trembled, but was glad it was only thunder. Sena kneed the doctor in the gut before walking away. He was getting ready to leave the hospital, until Elliot tried to stop him.

"Yo wait! Calm do-" Elliot was pistol whipped in the face before he could finish his sentence. Elliot ran into the wall, before falling to one knee and holding his jaw. Sean stepped into the elevator with the coldest of looks. He couldn't even speak. In this world, he was truly alone. He had no one, and he didn't care... not anymore.

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Earth: The Hospital

Corissa’s breathing seemed to pick up. She’d heard Sean’s outrage and hardly heard the storm beginning to rage outside. When the doctor came into the room and spoke, she didn’t hear anything. Her ears were buzzing, a humming sound that blocked Will’s words and the doctor’s. All she could think about was Sean, Sean, Sean. Somewhere deep inside her, a bubble formed and crept slowly up her gut and eventually her throat. She let out a scream that ripped through the hallways of the hospital and next thing she knew, she was off of the hospital bed and pulling out the IVY in her arm and the round stickers plastered all over body and connecting her to machines. In just her hospital gown, she sprints out of the room before the nurses, Will, or the doctor could do anything to stop her. She looked for Sean and when spotting him, she threw herself into his arms and began to weep; her fingers clawing at his shoulders. β€œLet’s go, Sean. Take me to Paris! I don’t care what they say! I’m your sister. Please, please, please! Let’s go to Paris.”

Earth: Back in Florida

Sorcha woke up in the hotel room, curled up on her side on one of the beds. Throwing off the covers, she sits up and looks around quietly, feeling just a bit disoriented. Last place she remembered being was at the house in Ireland. She remembered finding her brother, Keegan, and gifting him the memories taken from him five years ago from the League of Twelve. It took a moment or so to remember the very last thing she’d done: heal Reicha, which resulted in a fainting spell on Sorcha’s part. But, where was she now and where was everyone else? Had dreamed the entire thing? Panicking at the thought, she jumps out of the bed and walks around the room, searching for clues. She comes upon a sliding glass door and opens and spots Keegan on the balcony, sitting and writing something. She smiles softly and moves away from the door, not wanting to interrupt his peace and quiet. Instead, she decides to search for the others.

Stepping towards the bedroom door, she opens it and steps out into the hall, unaware she’d forgotten a key. Walking down the hall, she ponders upon knocking randomly on doors to find the others, but argues against the idea and continues down the hall. Perhaps, she’d come upon somebody. Half an hour later, Sorcha found herself in the lobby of the hotel and spied a wounded Reicha enter the building. Eyes widening in surprise, Sorcha first questions her healing abilities but soon realizes the wounds are quite different and not in the same area. Rushing over to her, Sorcha takes a quick look at the bounty hunter’s injuries while asking frantically. β€œWhat happened, Lady Reicha!? Are under attack once again? Should we fetch Keegan and the others?” The Princess stopped within a couple feet from Reicha, concern in her gray eyes.

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The Hospital

Will looked away as Corissa began to flip out. He couldn't do anything to help. At this point everything was fucked up pretty bad. As she ran he followed behind her a few seconds after. He was halted by the doctor however. "Sir we'll send security to get, her don't worry. She needs some time to think. I would also like to apologize now for my Nurse's mistake. You See she mixed up Corissa's file with that of another patient. The bloodwork is still the same however, they are not biological siblings."

Will stared at the doctor as both he and the nurse apologized. That was the last straw, his breaking point. "Your sorry? Your Sorry you mother fucking pig faced ass hole? You ruined it all. Everything... YOU BOTH RUINED IT ALL!!!!" Will grabbed Dr. Aikenhead by the throat and shoved the nurse down. "You have no idea how sorry you all will be. This hospital and these people will burn for your insolence!" Will threw the doctor straight through the wall and right all the way through the room and out the window that not too long ago had flowers and Balloons out of it.

Will's arm had blood running down it as his eyes began to glow white and he pulled one of his daggers. He walked over to the nurse and she tried to escape but failed. He bent down and lifter her by her hair. She screamed as he slammed her face into the ground. He body slammed straight through the ground, her head was almost completely ground into the rubble. "As the world crashes down around me, I shall decimate the rubble. From the ashes of it's demise, a new life of fear will be born."

That was when a security guard came running at him his gun drawn. Scythe barely moved, he just tossed the dagger and took out a potion. The dagger plunged into the guards throat and Scythe tossed the Blood Rage filled potion to the room containing the oxygen tanks. The exploded as the fire touched them and half the floor was on fire, the nearest walls were completely blown out. Will stood there in the wreckage, his eyes glowing white, blood leaking from different blood rage inflicted wounds, and quite a few more people left to kill. He was going to slaughter them all if he wasn't stopped.

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Miami: Quietous Interruptous

Keegan was sitting on the balcony, waiting for his sister to awaken. Suddenly, an earth shattering noise went off, causing him to look up and nearly fall back in his chair at the same time. Smoke was rising from the hospital about three blocks away. It wasn't until then that Keegan noticed the rain. And he could feel the magical energies coming from the building, "Taran." He muttered, grabbing his papers and going inside, only to discover that Sorcha was missing.

"Dammit," He muttered as he grabbed his things and stashed the key in his pocket. He went out and hammered on his companions doors, "Come on, we're moving out! And keep an eye out for Sorcha, she's wandered off again." He said, though he suspected she might be in with Masaharu and Saige, "Meet up in the lobby."

Meanwhile, Reicha was giving Sorcha a cool look. The woman seemed to panic at the slightest sign of trouble, "Worry not, Princess, there was merely a matter which I had to attend to. We should not have to worry about it for now. Though I do need to inquire to our Earthling allies as to the location of a weapon-smith. I require ammunition for my guns." She said, her hand planted firmly over her wounded abdomen. As she was about to push past Sorcha and head for her room, Keegan rounded the corner and let out a sigh of relief as he saw his sister, but his gaze hardened upon seeing Reicha. Reicha simply rolled her eyes and said, "It's nothing you have to worry your little head about. I took care of it."

Keegan muttered something under his breath before turning to Sorcha, "Sister, please. Next time, you must warn me before your departure. I was worried you'd wandered off." He said with a certain calmness that had a worried undertone, "I think I may know where Taran is. We only need wait for the others before we can be off." He said, hoping they would show up in some sort of hurry.

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Hospital: Blind Trust

Sean kept questioning what his life meant with each step he took toward the exit of the hospital. The warm pleasant memories he had with Corissa were now traumatizing to him. His body felt so heavy under what had happened. Sean was so overwhelmed that conditions outside became dangerous. Meteorologist were claiming it was an unpredicted tropical storm that hadn't been tracked. They had even been baffled by the phenomenon. Sean didn't care though. Even as lightning made contact, he continued toward the exit. Maybe... Just maybe, if I was hit, I wouldn't have to care... Sean was so close to the exit now, that he could practically smell the damp scent of the rain. He didn't know how he would get home, or if he would even go back home. Before he could get any closer to the exit, Sean heard faint panting, coming at him from behind. Could it have been Elliot again? Sean couldn't think of anything that man could say to make him stop. He did turn around however.

"Elliot, I don't... Corissa?" Sean's eyes widened at the sight of her. ...she isn't your sister... The words struck him again before Corissa jumped into his arms. At first he couldn't bring his arms to hold her. His eyes shut as he actually did something that he wasn't familiar with. It was as if he heard a soft voice that guided him. Listen to your heart. Sean's hands wrapped around Corissa as the memories that had once crippled his thoughts, became warm and pleasant again. These memories felt different though. As if he was looking at them through another set of eyes. He opened his eyes, and the storm outside seemed to settle a bit.

"I'm sorry si... I'm sorry Corissa. I don't know why I let that get to me. It shouldn't have even phased me, because I know... I know I couldn't stop loving you. I trust you and care about you more than anyone... You not being my biological sister shouldn't matter." Sean held Corissa tighter, before smiling. "Is there any other bad news? I want to go to Paris stress free." Sean asked jokingly, so he could see Corissa smile as well. He didn't want to drastically change the mood, but he wanted to look past this. At that moment, Elliot entered the hallway, a look of dismay on his face.

"Sean! Corissa! You need to calm that guy down! He's going nuts on the third floor." Elliot said, hoping Sean would care. Sean ignored Elliot for a minute as he embraced Corissa. His eyes Elliot's before he let go of Corissa.

"We can't the him ruin good business here." Sean said before putting a hand to Corissa's shoulder. "We have to go calm him down. This hospital is kind of important." Sean said trying to mask his concern.

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Concordia - The End of the Invasion that I completely forgot that I told Ray I would do for him

The league and the Undead clashed. Many undead had fallen, Shien's spirits doing a great Job of keeping them at bay. With so many spirits they were unskilled and nothing more then pawns in the chess game going on. As each died they became stronger, but any more then three and they couldn't stand up to a League member's power. One by one the league and the Undead clashed. Each side too casualties, although Shien's didn't really matter. After some time the Undead all seemed to look up. They were being recalled and the began retreating. Sure they still suffered more casualties, if you could call killing an undead a casualty, but they did get the majority out. Shien's Spirits turned into white flames and returned to his Demon arm. He opened his eyes and then sat up. Spirit's Bane took alot out of him when he used it as he just did, and while there was no physical damage to him, there was exhaustion. He stood up, unsteadily walked over to a wall and slid down it, now leaning against it. "And the Zombies went home" he said with a tired smirk.

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Feeling a bit groggy, Masaharu opened his eyes slowly as a voice said to 'meet in the lobby.' He stood up and stretched, rubbing eyes as he did. "At least I got a little rest." He grabbed the key for his room and put it in his pocket then grabbed his coat and sword. After grabbing a quick drink of water, he walked out of his room, locking it and heading to the lobby.

"Something going on? Are we heading somewhere? I was having a nice nap." He threw his coat on and sat down in a chair, his sword resting beside him.

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Miami: Roads to the Lost

As everyone ended up in the lobby, Keegan cleared his throat, "I have a feeling I have a pretty good idea where Taran is. There's a hospital a few blocks from here. It just exploded. Normally, one would assume this would be a bad thing. However, I can sense some vague magical presences coming from that direction. Something is going on there, and we need to go find out, because it is no doubt linked to Taran." He said, turning his head in the direction of the doors. Reicha looked pretty roughed up, but she could probably walk the distance. He went to the front desk and rented a car similar to the one Masa had rented in Ireland and met up with it around front, piling everyone in. Now they just had to get past the traffic that was no doubt streaming out of the hospital.

-------------------------

Concordia: Wait, who are you again?

Kiel had participated in the fighting in several battles nobody really gives two shits about. As the fighting seemed to dry up, he let out a disgusted grunt and made his way back towards the main hall, running into Pyrus and Demetrius, "Good to see the two of you are still alive. Would have been a shame to see either of you die. I could think of a few others I'd rather see go first." He said with a smirk. He looked around at the charred and shattered undead, nodding as he inspected the battlegrounds, "You two have made quite a mess for the cleaning crew, eh?"

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Err okay... I made one of those old system topics so we can go back and see the previous posts from now on. Here is the link....

concordia-part-t48816.html

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Test test.

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Chronicles of Concordia: Cleopatra

Twenty six years ago, Valius Pendus expected an heir to his name and the power he would obtain. He wanted an heir who was strong, fearless, and was willing to do anything to be worthy enough to hold the family name. This heir would smite anyone who stood against him and overcome obstacles that men deemed impossible. On the day Valius' child was born, this heir became nonexistent to him. He cursed the gods viciously, and in his disappointment, aided the death of his wife. His second chances at a child were futile. He couldn't imagine loving anyone else. He wouldn't. What could have been wrong with the child that came from the womb?

The child was healthy, had no deformities, and hadn’t been born too early. It had taken him a while to accept the sight of his child... The child that destroyed all hope of an heir. The child wasn't to blame, but he held too much pride to blame himself. This beautiful child that he held in his shaking arms could never be his heir. Only because the child had not been born a boy. No matter how strong, how fearless, or how willing she would be to remain worthy in her father's cold eyes... Cleopatra Pendus would never be the heir of Valius.

People say that children pick up easily on feelings of anxiety and discomfort, and even when there is hatred. They are perceptive. However sometimes those feelings can be pushed aside, why would a child choose to believe that her father doesn't love her or want her... that at the simple age of four a daughter could have disappointed her father beyond reconciliation. For Cleo though this was the case and for the simple reason that she was girl. However as a young child she had pushed these feelings aside and pretended that these underlying tones of disappointment were not there. At age four though, it became all too real. Cleo had been sick. It was simple stomach bug and fever but she had been in bed for a week. A nurse had been looking after her but Cleo hadn't seen her father the whole time.

Valius was decently wealthy at this time, living off of the wealth his father passed on to him after his mysterious death. During this time, Valius was usually locked away in his private chamber. Everyone in the small village thought of him as a madman after the death of his wife. This passing winter, was much colder than most. The cause of the dropping temperature was more on his mind than his sick daughter had been. He assumed she would be fine after a few days in bed. Unlike most days, he was heading outside, currently putting on his coat at the front door.

After about a week of being stuck in bed all Cleo wanted was her father. She wanted someone to wrap their arms around her and tell her that it was all going to be okay. The whole time Cleo had been attended to by a nurse but that wasn’t the same as having a parent comfort her, also the nurse wasn’t very nice to her. The nurse believed that Cleo needed to toughen up and gave little sympathy to the young girl since there were many people coming down sick this winter.

While her nurse was out getting her some more soup, Cleo dragged her weak small body out of bed. Stumbling a little she picked up her rag doll and made her way out of the bedroom. "Daddy?" Cleo called out quietly as she reached the hallway. There was no one there though and slowly the young girl still dressed in her pyjamas made her way down the hallway towards her father’s chamber. She, like everyone else knew that he spent most of his time there. However she had also been warned on many occasions not to disturb him by either her nanny or her father himself.

As she made her way down the staircase she noticed her father at the front door. Her face lit up a little bit as she glanced over at him. β€œDaddy?” Cleo called out as she walked down the stairs slowly, her body obviously weak from the effort of getting out of bed and the small distance she had walked in an attempt to find her father.

Valius had just gotten his coat on, ready to leave his home. At least until he heard the high pitched sound of his daughter's sickly voice. While he was still facing the door, he grimaced at the predicament. He now had the burden of sending her back to bed. He turned around to face her with a worried look on his face. This winter had brought on an illness that was currently inflicting his daughter. It was easy to see with her pale face and her loss of weight.

"Cleo, you know you must stay in bed. You're ill and must rest... I am leaving, so head upstairs." Valius demanded, showing no sympathy. He didn't even say goodbye as he opened the front door, letting a heavy breeze of cold air enter the house. He closed the door behind himself as easily as he could take a breath. He was heading to the source of this anomaly. Instead of his daughter, this was his top priority.

Cleo just stood there, looking down at her father with a desperate expression. Her eyes were pleading with him not to go and to come upstairs and at the very least tuck her back into bed. All she wanted was some sign of love or compassion. His voice showed none of this though as he simply instructed her to take herself back to bed. Cleo stood there in shock and disappointment as he turned and left. He hadn’t even said goodbye.

The cold breeze that he had let in whipped around her small frail body as she just stared at the door. Tears formed in her eyes as she sunk down onto the step. Her little body sat there staring at the door for an hour before her nurse came and found her sitting on the steps, curled up into a little ball crying as she watched the door. Cleo had sat there wishing that her father would come back... but he didn’t.

When the nurse tried to remove her Cleo had only cried louder, screaming out for her father who was nowhere in sight. The nurse eventually had to go and get one of the male servants to come and pick her up, carrying her back to her bed where Cleo calmed down a little and cried herself off to sleep. All she wanted was her daddy.

Valius searched through the outskirts of town, feeling the temperature drop lower and lower. He was lucky to have his coat, or otherwise, he would have frozen to death. You could call Valius arrogant, but he was no coward. He was a risk taker and almost never chose defeat. He would die before he let his pride leave him. The blistering winds didn't halt him, and the echoing howls of wolves in the distance didn't make him think twice about entering the wilderness alone. He had been out in the wilderness for hours, getting closer and closer to what had been causing this surge of extremely low temperatures. Valius momentarily stumbled over an elk that had died from the harsh weather. Valius' eyes widened, fascinated by this power. If anything, he wanted to understand its source and grasp it for his own. Upon that thought, he heard the sound of faint whimpering.

"Huh?" Was all Valius could get out as he wondered what living creature could be dwelling in these conditions. He was getting frost bitten by the cold himself. Perhaps it was an animal that was an innocent victim to the freezing weather. Valius continued on, but stopped once again when he heard the whimper again. It was much louder this time. He wasn't going to investigate at first, but his curiosity had gotten the best of him. He ran toward the direction of the sound, before he spotted something shaking rapidly in the cold.

It was a... boy. He didn't look too much older than his daughter. His skin was pale, his body was malnourished, but the thing that caused Valius' eyes to widen in shock was the fact that the only thing keeping the boy warm was a thin white blanket. The boy looked at Valius, waving him away immediately. There were many frozen bodies lying on the ground of the forest floor around the boy. "So you are the cause of this... I don't fear you." Valius said with a smile as he reached out toward the boy. "Just think of warmth... Think of the warmth the sun grants you when it's high in the sky." Valius said before the scenery started changing. The boy began feeling the warmth this stranger had spoken of as he peered into the man's eyes. The cold air around the two diminished in seconds. Only because Valius made the boy see what he wanted.

It didn't take too long to venture back into town with the boy. The townspeople were curious as to who the boy was. Only Valius knew at the time. This boy had a family, and knew its name well. He was someone who lived on the other end of the flames of misfortune. Demetrius Black was an heir with nothing to receive. Valius entered his home shivering more than any man could.

"Get me some blankets now! Now I say!" Valius ordered before servants came scurrying in to aid the two.

Cleo had been in bed crying when she heard her father's voice booming through the house. He sounded... well he sounded concerned. It caught the young four year old off guard. Her nurse was also caught off guard as she turned to Cleo. "Stay in bed" She ordered before leaving the room to go and see what all the fuss was about, quickly going to the aid of the young boy and helping him with some of the other servants as they took him over to one of the couches.

Upstairs, Cleo could hear the sound of movement down below and despite being told to stay in bed; she wanted to know what was going on. She also wanted to see her father. Slowly the little girl once more got out of bed. Tiptoeing she made her way across the hallway and towards the stairs once more. Wondering down the stairs she clung to the railing for support as she saw the scene unfolding below her, pausing on the second last step.

Valius was barking orders at his servants. Demetrius was now seated on one of the couches with blankets covering his body. Soup was immediately brought to him too. Valius hadn't even allowed himself to be tended to himself before Demetrius had all that he needed. The seven year old boy shakily grasped his spoon that was sunken in the bowl of soup. It had been the same thing that was being brought to Cleo at the time. He put the spoon to his mouth, before smiling at how delicious it was.

"Good isn't it? I don't hire servants who can't cook a good meal Mr. Black." Valius said sternly, but with a hint of hospitality. Demetrius could only nod as he felt his strength already returning to himself. He took another taste of the soup. Valius was handed a mug of tea, and was just about to take a seat on the couch, until he spotted Cleo on the steps again. The worried look returned to his face. "Cleo... I suppose you can take a seat beside me. Come here and greet our guest, Demetrius Black. He might be staying with us for a while... Demetrius, this is my daughter Cleopatra. You may call her Cleo." Valius said to his daughter. His hand had patted the space beside him.

For the first time after tasting the soup, Demetrius' cold eyes left his bowl and stared up at Cleo on the steps. He didn't say a word to her; he only gave her a gaze before returning to his soup.

For the young girl on the steps, the scene before her was almost heart breaking. She watched as this young boy commanded the complete attention of her father, something Cleo had tried to get for years. In a matter of a few short moments, this... this boy had got everything that was important to her. Cleo didn’t understand. What did this boy have that she didn’t? Why didn’t her father look at her like that, or act like that around her? For the little girl it was confusing and she could feel the tears starting back up in her eyes.

Yet before the tears could run down her face, her father noticed her. Cleo looked back at him with big eyes. She noticed the change in his demeanour as he spoke to her and she felt like she could have sunk down through the floor. As he asked her to take a seat next to him she slowly moved across the room to where he had indicated for her to sit. Cleo sat down as she studied the boy who was eating the soup. Her mouth turning into a pout. She didn’t like this boy. He was taking her Daddy away from her. β€œHello Demetrius...” Cleo said, clearly not happy that this boy was here.

β€œDaddy, when is Demetrius going home?” Cleo asked curiosity in her voice as she tried to get her father’s attention back on her. Her voice was still very weak and her face pale, it obvious that she should have been in bed but her father had hardly noticed this, too worried about how this other boy was.

Valius had been glad that Cleo had actually taken a seat. His shivering was slowing down as he sipped his tea. He was beginning to get comfortable until he felt something somewhat ominous from Cleo that caused his attention to quickly turn to her. It couldn't be. He didn't want to believe what he had felt from his own daughter. Her question only confirmed what he had felt. His brows furrowed at the rude question.

"Cleo! We don't say things like that when a guest is present. Demetrius will stay as long as he likes!" Valius said a little upset at his daughter.

"Does she not know of hospitality..?" A monotone, but weak voice asked. It was Demetrius who was halfway done with his soup. He didn't even look at Cleo as he said, only at the man he asked.

"She is still young my boy... She will know her place with time." Valius said before pulling the blanket from off himself and moving them onto to Cleo who was in need of one. "I'll be heading to my private chambers. Get the girl some soup!" Valius said before heading up the stairs. He had much work to do, and sitting on a couch shivering wouldn't get it done.

Cleo felt herself blushing as she realised that she should have kept her mouth shut. It wasn't normal for her to speak out of turn but she felt threatened. What little standing she had in her father's life was under threat and she was curious to know when this boy would be gone. "Sorry Daddy" Cleo mumbled to her father as he spoke harshly to her. Her attention then turned to the boy as he spoke about her, the two of them acting as if she wasn't here. As her father put the blanket onto of her she looked at him with desperate eyes. He however just announced he was leaving and left the two of them in the care of the servants.

After a moment or two of watching where her father vanished off to, Cleo turned to look at the boy who was sitting there finishing his soup. "Why did my Daddy bring you here?" Cleo asked, making sure to say that it was her Daddy, not his. She knew nothing about this boy and this in itself made her curious. As she sat there her nurse came over with some soup. "Here you go girl, eat up and then we will get you back up to bed. Hopefully this time you will stay there" The nurse said with a glare. When the lady turned away Cleo simply poked her tongue out at the ladies back.

Demetrius had been eating his soup with nothing to distracting him, until he heard Cleo speak. He didn't mind her too much, so he would respectfully answer her. His answer wasn't going to be sugar coated for her. It was going to tell the girl the truth. Before answering however, he put his bowl to his mouth and drank the leftover contents of soup that he could no longer catch effectively with his spoon. He handed his bowl to the passing maid, and she accepted it with a smile.

"Thank you." Demetrius said before positioning himself to face Cleo. His face showed no emotion as he looked her in the eye. "Mr. Pendus says that I'm powerful... that he needs me and my power. He's going to take care of me and I'm going to help him... help him achieve his dreams. That is what your father has told me." Demetrius answered. He gazed at Cleo before speaking again. "Why did he bring you here? You don't look special." Demetrius said coldly.

Cleo listened closely as he spoke about being powerful and her father needing him. She frowned a little. Her powers hadn’t come through yet, she was too little. Yet here was this boy who had his powers and her father was admitting to needing him. Cleo wanted to be needed! Her dislike for this boy was growing. However when he asked why she was brought here Cleo frowned.

β€œI live here... he is my Daddy, that makes me special” Cleo said defensively. Although it was obvious from even that small display between her father and her, that she was anything but special in her father’s eyes. The little girl put the uneaten soup on the table as she folded her arms. β€œWhere are your parent’s? Did they not like you?” Cleo asked. Her question was actually asked innocently, she was after all only four years old. Despite being brought up by her father of all people, she had led a very sheltered life up until this stage.

Demetrius hadn't even winced from Cleo's defensive answer. He saw that she wasn't eating her soup, and wondered if his question was offensive. He hadn't meant it, but he was curious as to what her purpose was. She couldn't just be living to become a housewife. Valius seemed like a man who only moved forward, at least to Demetrius. When Cleo had asked her question, his eyes widened. His breathing got heavier as he stared blankly. The temperature in the home started dropping drastically. The servants in the home started panicking at what was happening. Within seconds, Valius was storming down the steps, his eyes glowing a bright whit as he stared down Demetrius.

"Demetrius! You must calm down! I can help you control this! I can be a father to you!" Valius shouted. Demetrius' blank expression faded as he fainted, and the cold temperature left the house. Valius' eyes stopped glowing before he turned from the couch and headed upstairs. "Make him bed out of wool blankets on the far side of Cleo's room. He'll sleep fine there." Valius said before reaching the top of the steps and stopping for a moment. "Cleo... he will kill you if you are too foolish. I may not be here the next time he does this." Valius said before continuing to his chamber.

Cleo’s eyes opened wide as she watched Demetrius’ reaction to her question. As she felt the temperature drop she knew it must have been coming from him. The cold ran right through her body, causing her to shiver violently. Being the closest to him, she also felt the full effects of his attack. Cleo was about to yell at him to stop when her father appeared. Cleo watched as her father calmed Demetrius down enough to make the boy faint.

However his words about being a father to this boy cut right through her heart. Cleo didn’t want to share her Daddy with anyone, let alone this boy.

She watched in silence, her body shivering as her father ordered for a bed to be made up in her room for the boy. Coughing a little from the sudden cold and the effect it had already had on her health she watched as her father walked away once more. Cleo frowned but when her father turned back to look at her she studied him curiously. She had thought for a moment he was going to say something kind, yet he simply warned her that this boy could kill her.

With that Cleo lost what little colour she had in her cheeks. "Yes Daddy..." Her attention turned back to look at the boy who was now unconscious. This boy might be able to kill her but Cleo wasn’t going to go down without a fight. She loved her Daddy and she wanted him all to herself, even if that did mean going up against this strange boy.

********

Six years... It may have been a long time to both Cleo and Demetrius, but the time proved to be nothing to Valius. During these years, Valius had been setting his plans in motion. Before being completely busy, he had helped Demetrius gain control of his magic by weakening it with a seal he had placed on the boy's back. If Demetrius ever lost focus when using his magic, he would never do too much harm without exhausting himself. The boy was growing up to be a powerful tool that would chisel his sculpture of a future. When Cleo had reached age five, Valius was glad to see that the Gods had granted her magic of her own. He hadn't been too reluctant to train her as much as Demetrius, but she had forced herself into their training sessions. Valius would never turn away someone who was hungry for growth in power. The thought of her trying to gain his approval never crossed his mind. Valius was just grateful to have the chance to lead two children toward power.

The two children however, weren't too grateful to be rivals going for the same goal. Demetrius found Cleo annoying, and their bickering soon became annoying to Valius. Valius didn't think he had to have Cleo's room completely split by having a wall built. Valius noticed that Demetrius pushed himself so Cleo could never be known as his equal, and Cleo pushed herself so she could prove that she was better or just as good as him.

Today was a promising day though... It was the day Valius would go to initiate his plan to breed a blood thirsty warrior that would carry his family's name. Devin Pendus. The thought of this completely blotted out another reason why this day should be promising. Today was the tenth birthday of his dearest daughter. The only person, who had loved him more than anyone, was casted aside.

****
Devin’s crying screams of pain sounded through the small town. Valius had assumed the boy would defeat the creature without causing himself pain, but this boy was not born a warrior. It was destiny to become one, but looking at the boy let him know that he had to twist the boy's life into chaos before his prized nephew could be in his palms. The right thing for Valius to do would be to help Devin out with his foul circumstance, but instead the man smiled with the opportunity to shape the boy's life with his hand. As Devin cried in pain, a hand gripped his shoulder. This hand was dark and twisted. The creature almost looked human except, it's skin was pitch black, its eyes had a yellow glow to them, and its face looked like that of a goblin's. This monster was close to six feet in height, with another accompanying it. The two looked at him with menacing eyes. Valius sent one feeling into Devin's body.

"Survive... Devin." Valius said softly while remaining in a dark corner.

Devin was crying out until he felt the hand grip his shoulder. He gripped his knife and lashed around, slicing the creature’s arm clean off despite the blade not being long enough to do so. He lunged up and jabbed the knife in the creature’s throat. He twisted and ripped the blade from it as blood splattered out. Then he turned his attention to the second creature.

He vaulted off the first creature and pounced on the second. He stabbed the creature in the head and pulled the knife back out. He then swung it around slicing the head of the creature clean off despite it once again not having the length to do so. Blood spurt from his legs as he and the creature both fell to the ground. He laid there crying, barely enough energy left to even scream anymore.

The creatures that Devin had slain soon morphed into humans. They were not just ordinary townspeople... They were the couple that had adopted him. The first creature he had killed was Devin's adoptive mother. The one he was now on the ground with was his father. Devin had killed with an audience, and Valius was orchestrating the show. His eyes glowed as he placed that single instinct of survival in Devin's mind

"Get up! Don't be weak my boy!" Valius whispered to himself.

Devin got up, somehow his spirit to live once again restored. He looked at the bodies of the only parents he ever knew as well as a mob screaming at him and armed. He did the only thing he could do when they came at him. He ran. He didn’t know where he was headed; he just went into the woods and didn’t stop running. Not until they stopped chasing. He breathed heavily deep in the woods now and began crying. He didn’t know what to do. He was alone in the woods with a dagger, and he was covered in wounds. He wasn’t sure if it was the physical or emotional pain that actually hurt more.

About 2 Days later....
Devin walked around the woods alone. He was able to find a small river to wash up in, although he was still covered in wounds that he didn’t know how to bandage. At least they weren’t bleeding anymore. He was able to steal some food from his house (that was being guarded) and some campers he came across. Now armed with just a dagger, a bruised and broken body, a small satchel of food, and just instincts the 6 year old boy was on his own to survive in the woods. Things looked dismal.

In these woods however, there was man... No, a warrior that walking through the woods. Hi his crimson tinted armour was cracked in certain places, and he looked as if he had no equal on the battlefield. His heavy boots crushed nearly anything he stepped on. His face was wrapped in a black cloth, only revealing his eyes that were blood red. He seemed to be passing through, but something seemed to stop him. He spotted a young boy, who looked as if he gotten into a fight with the animals of these woods. The man gripped his sword, before throwing it toward the boy, just missing the boy's head.

"Child! What is your business in these woods? Are you looking for Halikair?" The man asked with authority.

Devin turned around as he heard something. Just as he did he saw a sword fly by his head and stab into a tree next to him. Then some man yelled about a Halikair. Devin had no idea who he was, but figured he was just another person hunting him. Devin grabbed the blade from the tree and pulled it out. It was much heavier then Devin guessed, but he finally held it as if he was ready to fight with it. This man wore armour that would signify he was a great warrior, but Devin wouldn’t let himself be idly killed. His instincts told him otherwise.

The typically silent child glared at the man. β€œI don’t care who you are or what you want. If your here to hunt me down I will kill you too. I’m not going to let you kill me!!!” The blade began to glow blood red as Devin’s face began to bleed. He whipped his body around and the blade cut through a nearby tree like butter. The tree fell to the ground behind him and Devin stood there. This sword was very hard for him to use, as if he was destined to use another weapon. It didn’t matter though. He just ran with the sword towards the man that threatened him. He was obviously slower, weaker, and untrained, an easy kill for the man. Devin was just too headstrong and running on animal instincts to allow logic in.

The warrior’s eyes looked as if he had been filled with rage as the boy charged toward him with his own sword. He was pleased with Devin's strength and courage, but that didn't mean he would cut the kid too much slack.

"Foolish!" The man shouted before charging toward Devin. He had moved so fast, that he whizzed past the boy. As he passed by Devin, his gloved hand managed to get a grip of the back of Devin's collar, pulling his body backward. He would drag the boy until he felt a lesson was learned. "Never charge blindly!"

Devin was taken aback and dropped the sword as he was being dragged. He pulled his dagger trying to cite the man but his reach wasn’t long enough. He decided the best way now was to slip out of his shirt. So that’s what he did. He slipped out of his shirt, jumped to his feet and latched onto the man’s arm. Hanging there by 1 arm he gripped the dagger and smiled as it did the same as the sword only this time his other cheek began bleeding. β€œGotcha now” He said as he tossed the dagger straight at the man’s chest. It would be enough to at least hurt the bastard.

The boy's persistence intrigued the warrior even more. If he wasn't as quick, Devin would have penetrated his armour. The warrior had grabbed Devin by the throat with his free hand, which limited Devin's reach. The dagger had made a deep scratch in his armour.
With a swift swing of his arm, the warrior threw Devin violently into a tree. It was a bit over the top, but the warrior was testing the boy's will to live. That is what differed a growing warrior and a man who just wielded a weapon.

Devin struggled to his feet after being slammed against the tree. He stood and spit out a mouthful of blood. He started moving forward towards the assailant. β€œI won’t let you....” Devin fell face first into the ground before he could finish the sentence. The past few days had been taxing and his body could no longer handle it.

It had been hours since the warrior had knocked Devin out. He had carried the boy on his shoulder and found an abandoned cave. He had gathered fire wood and started a fire to keep warm. He set out 3 vials and a flask. The man was creating a potion for Devin.
The boy had been badly injured, due to some sort of ability he had. The warrior found this ability of his strange but would try to see if he could figure out how it worked. Taking on students wasn't his forte, but this child held great potential.

Devin had woken up in a strange area. He looked around and saw the campfire. His wounds were now bandaged as well. Through the fire he saw that strange man once more. He tried to get to his feet, but he was just too weak too. He looked at himself but he couldn’t find his knife anywhere. β€œWhat do you want with me?” He spoke in a resilient tone. He couldn’t fight back and they both knew it, so he was stuck at the mercy of this strange man. This he was not a fan of.

The man was still mixing up his ingredients. He poured the contents of the three vials he had into the empty flask. Before stirring the contents of the flask together though, he set the flask down, pulled off one of his gloves, and took out a dagger. The small weapon was designed to rip deep through flesh with its jagged edges. The warrior sliced the palm of his hand, and put the dagger away. Blood dripped from his bare hand, but he didn't scream from the pain or the sight of the blood. He didn't even seem to flinch. He had experienced much worse in his life. He then allowed a drop of blood to go into the flask. The contents took on a bright colour of red.

"What I want with you? Humph... You should be grateful that I saved you. Any other man would have left you to die for the way you acted." The man said harshly under his wrappings. He made his way around the fire and to Devin with the flask in his hand. "Now drink this. It may not taste well, but its magic is exceptional. It will heal your body." The man said as held the flask forward for Devin to take.

Devin stared at the man and began breathing heavily. β€œI never asked you to save me. You should have let me die. It would have made things better. I also would have died fighting like that story my daddy used to tell me.” He then went silent and turned away from the man, refusing the flask. β€œDrink it yourself old man, and LEAVE ME ALONE!!!!! I will be fine on my own....”

The gripped the flask, but he made sure that he wouldn't let his anger cause himself to break the container in his own hands. The man looked onto the boy with his cold red eyes before setting the flask in front of the boy and walking back to his side of the flames.

"It is your choice." The man stared at the flames which reminded him of the violent motions of battle. "Would you mind telling this tale of your father's?" The man asked as he grabbed a cloth and placed it over his bleeding palm.

Devin turned back around as the man walked away and asked about the story. Devin didn’t like him, but he did want to share his father’s story, especially since his father could no longer. He sat up and stared into the fire. β€œThe story of the mighty Griffon King Nanook and his son Lazarus. There was a big war many years ago that was for the whole planet of Concordia. Creatures of all shapes and sizes were being controlled and used to rebel against the Gods and Goddesses of Concordia.”

Devin paused and coughed up some blood. He was too hurt to continue the story but wanted to finish it. So he begrudgingly picked up the Vial and drank it down. He gagged a bit but it did help. β€œThe Gryphons were the first to try and stop the bad witch that was controlling the creatures. There was a big war where many died from both sides. Finally though the Mighty Gryphon King Nanook, met the Evil Witch Bestresus.”

He paused once more noticing his wounds healing up. Then he continued. β€œThey fought but were evenly matched. To protect the world and the balance, the Gryphon king sacrificed his own life to end that of the witches. Before he died, he passed on the crown to his son Lazarus. So the King died, a new king was born who worked to fix everything, and the world was saved. He died in a battle; my daddy said that was the most Noble way to die. To die a Warrior’s death.”

The warrior listened to the tale, and took notice to Devin being healed with the passing minute.

"A noble death indeed... You say you would have died like that, but what would be gained afterward. The Gryphon King gave his life to save the people of Concordia. You however threw your life into the jaws of Halikair as if it was worth nothing. After fighting you, I see something that I don't see in most men who say they carry the title of a warrior." The warrior stopped speaking as he kicked dirt into the flames, keeping them low. "People born into this world are either great or feeble, nothing more. If you wish to be amongst the weak, then you should set off on your own in the morning. If you decide to stay, I assure you... You're death with be a noble one." He said before putting his glove on his hand that had been bleeding a while ago.

Devin stared at the man after he spoke. He didn’t say anything just stared. After he told him that he could be great Devin wasn’t sure how to react. In the end he just prepared to lay down, and he looked at the empty flask in his hands. β€œThe Gryphon king didn’t die a warrior’s death because he died for a purpose; he died a warrior’s death because he went down fighting to the very end.” With that he just turned over and lay down, drifting to sleep.

The next morning Devin woke up early. He looked around and noticed the fire was out. He Stood up and brushed himself off. He then sat down and awaited the warrior to wake up. If he was going to die, he wanted it to be on the battlefield.

The warrior had awoken from his slumber, which he treasured dearly. He didn't get too much sleep these days, because he had always been busy with one thing or another. His first instinct was to look toward the other side of the ash pile. He couldn't say he was surprised to see Devin sitting there, waiting. He gave the boy a choice that wouldn't affect him after all.

"So you've decided to venture on the path of the warrior? Good. I bet you're wondering what I have planned for you. You probably think I'm going to hand you weapon to teach you combat, or have you exercise to increase your overall fitness." The warrior stood up on both feet. "We are doing nothing of the sort today! Every warrior accepts the guidance of a respective god or goddess, whether it is through simple prayer or connecting themselves with the god. The God's not only give us guidance, but they grant magic to aid us." The warrior stared into Devin's eyes before he was right beside the Devin in an instant. "You magical gift is something that I have never witnessed before. Only your respective god can tell you, and to do that, you must make a connection... So sit! Shut your eyes! Shut your mouth! Find your God! Find them, and you will become powerful!" The warrior spoke.


Devin was nervous when the man began taking an aggressive tone. He knew he couldn’t beat the man but he didn’t want to just go and die either. As he said what to do to find this God he sat down and did as the man said. He closed his eyes, watching the darkness surround his vision. He closed his mouth, his ears now picking up the sounds of nature around him. He sat there waiting for this God to appear. He sat for about a whole three minutes until he felt something. It started deep in his stomach. An awkward feeling that slowly worked its way up, and finally shot up his upper torso. He let out a pretty sizable burp for a young kid that hadn’t eaten much in days. He opened one eye and looked at the man before him. β€œThat wasn’t my God, was it?”

The warrior had been looking directly at Devin, watching to see if the boy was actually making a connection. When the loud burp escaped the boy's mouth, the warrior looked him with disapproval.

"No! That wasn't your god. You cannot proceed without connecting to your god. Your magic is too unstable to not know how it works. Now sit there until you do." The warrior grabbed his blade and left from Devin's sight, but his voice faintly remained. "I'm going to fetch us some lunch. You will not eat until you speak to a god."

Devin pouted and closed his eyes again. He was so hungry that he had to get this done. He sat there trying to see his god. Problem was that he didn’t know who he was. How could he possibly see him now? He tried and focused and wished to see his God. He just couldn’t. He opened his eyes disappointed at his failure. However when he opened his eyes it wasn’t the normal forest. Time around him was frozen, the sky turned pure white. The trees around him began to wither and even bleed. The clouds began to burn and Devin found himself unable to move, or scream. Strangely however, he wasn’t scared, more mystified.

As he looked around a cloaked figure appeared before him. He stared for a second and realized he had seen it before. When he killed the first bully. β€œWho are you?” Asked Devin as he stood his ground. The cloaked figure moved closer seeming to keep his non visible gaze on Devin. ”You are a fine subject if I do say so myself. My work was impeccable. I am your God Halikair, and you are my tool, Devin P... Perhaps it is best if you do not know your true last name at this point.” Devin stared at him. He didn’t care about a last name that some creature claiming to be his God would say.

β€œWhy am I this way? Did you do this to me? Did you make me kill my mommy and daddy?!” Devin was angry. This thing talked like it owned him. He wouldn’t allow that. ”So strong willed. That will come in handy later on young warrior. I did do this to you, but I did not make you kill your parents. They died for you to be born. You need not worry about those two meagre pawns you have slain.” Devin didn’t fully get what the creature was saying but he didn’t like it. He tried to charge at him but he still couldn’t move. β€œI don’t like you! GO AWAY!!” He yelled still struggling to get away but still unsuccessful.

Halikair grinned under his hood and moved closer grabbing and picking up Devin by his shirt. Devin was completely paralysed and couldn’t move, despite his best efforts. ”You are here to learn about your abilities correct? You are a special child. I bestowed your abilities on you in the womb. They have had time to marinate in you so to speak. You are completely one with your abilities and as such you will master them quicker then normally. You have a magic called Blood Rage. It allows you to deal amazing damage far superior then those with meagre super strength. You put your very health into each attack, often resulting in damaging your own body because of it. You must want to damage your target. Anger, the will to strike fear into the hearts of your opponents, the thirst for blood, they are all things that influence your magic Devin. You do have another magic however.
Omniscient Sight. All you must do is want to see everything around you and you can. No matter how bright, how dark or what surrounds you. You can always have perfect 360 degree vision. However your eyes will begin bleeding from using this ability. All small prices to pay to destroy the toughest of opponents. You will see young Devin; your abilities are amazing and the learning curve quite quick. Experiment with infusing different objects with your blood rage. Also know that those potions Modnar will teach you to make work much better with your blood. That is all I have to tell you. I leave you with a gift and a message. Tell Modnar I will be meeting him soon enough. As far as my gift, I leave you a Scythe. With it you will grow to be a wonderful warrior. You will bring about the chaos that will burn the world and empower me with its death. Good bye for now Devin”

Devin couldn’t react in any way. As Halikair disappeared and dropped Devin he seemed to fall into nothingness, until the world around him went black. He woke up from his trance instantly, back in the actual world, but Omniscient Sight already activated. His eyes were bleeding and he screamed and fell to the ground. He could see everything around him though. The chipmunk in the bush, the birds flying in the sky and even the scythe hidden in the brush. Devin didn’t even need to look around, he just saw it all. He walked over to where he saw the Scythe and after digging it out, sure enough it was there. He picked it up and wished to stop seeing everything, deactivating Omniscient Sight. He looked at the scythe as his eyes still bled. He could only whisper one thing as he grasped it. β€œHalikair...”

The warrior had a large elk in his sights. It was a buck, and he knew its meat would be tender. The creature fed on a bushel of leaves close to its hooves. The warrior pulled his arm back that held his dagger. The elk's head instinctively perked up, but its reaction was too slow. The dagger had struck it deep into its throat. The warrior rushed toward his game, going for the kill. He wanted the creature to die without experiencing too much pain. He would have normally snapped the neck of his game, but jumped to the side as a sword came swinging at him.

"Who?" The warrior said as he spotted a young man holding a short sword. The warrior was confused, because this boy couldn't have been a day over fifteen. Getting a good look at the boy's face made a smirk come across his face. "So... you've come to kill me? Foolish!" The warrior said as he withdrew his dagger and drew his sword. The boy was none other Demetrius Black.

"My apologies Modnar, but I have been given the task of killing you. It must be done." Demetrius said as he thought of what the servant had said. Demetrius charged forward, but the Modnar seemed to vanish right before the boy's eyes. He was swiftly kicked in the back, and sent flying. Demetrius' eyes widened in shock before he hit the ground. He managed to roll and recover, but Modnar was staring him down. Demetrius concentrated as his body spilled out the coldest of presences.

"You will not win! You will die if you continue." Modnar said before Demetrius swung at him with both hands on his sword. Modnar blocked with his own blade, but vanished when their eyes met once again. Modnar was ready to blind side the boy from the right side, until Demetrius swung at him, slashing his face. The cloth wasn't the best protection, but Modnar was shocked that his attack had been anticipated. He jumped back; in order to regain himself, but Demetrius came at him again. "That's it!" Modnar charged Demetrius, blocking his attack. He then sent a punch directly into Demetrius' face. Demetrius stumble back, before he was kneed in the stomach. Demetrius couldn't hope to match the warriors speed as an uppercut connected with his chin. The boy flew back, out of breath and in pain. "You are lucky to be a child, for I would have killed you. Come back to me when you can properly keep up with your opponent." Modnar said he wiped the blood off his wrapping. He ripped the dagger from the now lifeless body of the elk and looked Demetrius in the eye one last time before fading away. The look Demetrius was given was one of challenge. The boy would leave the man, but he would not return home... He would become strong on his own, and deliver Modnar's head to his master.

Meanwhile, Modnar is seen walking back to the camp, elk in hand. Just by looking at Devin, he could see a difference. The scythe in the boy's hand made him express a look of awe. He knew which god had visited him.

"What did he say?" Modnar asked.

Devin stood there staring at the weapon he was given completely ignoring Modnar at first. He was still processing everything that happened, and while all his bleeding had stopped, blood still crusted his face. β€œI have two magical abilities. One let’s me see all around me without having to look around. The other one let’s me damage stuff really bad, more than other people could ever, but it makes me hurt too. He say to try to use my damaging magic with all different stuff....”

Devin wasn’t ready to say anything about his family to this man. He didn’t have to, it was only his business. β€œHe... He also said that my blood works better for your potions.... He also said he’ll see you soon enough... I don’t know what he means.... He gave me this though.” He said motioning at the scythe. β€œIt has the same name as he did. Halikair. That’s a cool name, don’t you think?”

Modnar looked at Devin; blood dripping from his own face from the slash the boy from earlier had dealt. Modnar had respect for every god, knowing of each of their duties, but the amount the boy was given from Halikair, caused him to wonder what the boy had in store. Halikair was no Santa Clause of Concordia. In tales, Halikair always had something to gain, even if it was minuscule. Modnar did say he would train the boy once he found his respective god. He would have been willing to keep the boy at his side in future battles, but he faintly feared the message he was given from Halikair. He didn't like the grimness of it. As he wiped some of the blood off his face with his hand, he made a decision. He wouldn't allow himself to become attached to this boy. All he was to him was a student that he would discard once he was able to take care of himself.

"A scythe... An infamous weapon indeed. You will slay many after I teach you the might of the warrior. You will be feared... Hmm, Scythe.... Yes, Scythe! You have no family, and no need to carry the name you held when you were weak. I, Modnar, will bless you with the name that will greatly known and feared as. You... are... Scythe!" Modnar said before a smirk appeared on his face. "Now let's begin!"

*****

For the past six years Cleo had been in constant competition. Before she had been competing against the world for her father’s attention but now she was not only competing against the world but against Demetrius, the son her father had wished her to be. Cleo had figured it out not long after Demetrius had moved in with them. He was what her father wanted and Cleo had set about trying to prove him wrong, prove to him that she was worthy to be his daughter.

She had pushed her way into training sessions and been an eager and willing student. Despite being younger than Demetrius, anything he could do, she could also do with a little practise. Any father would have been proud of that but not Cleo’s. He simply couldn’t get over the fact that she was a girl. At five she also got her power. Cleo had been thrilled. Now she wasn’t useless... she could finally be worth something to her father. She ended up with the ability to control nature, or more specifically plants. She loved it and just after she had got it she had spent ages outside in the gardens surrounding the house practising growing things. However no matter how much she would practise, her power was not powerful like Demetrius’ and it didn’t get the attention from her father that his got.

Cleo also continued to argue with Demetrius. The two of them would get into huge fights over little things. However someone always stepped in before things went too far. Cleo remembered her father’s warning about how he was dangerous, yet she couldn’t help it. She was jealous and Demetrius knew just how to annoy her. At times he also seemed to get pleasure out of it.

Today was her tenth birthday. Today she would finally be a young lady and no longer a little kid. Cleo woke up early and raced across to her closet to get dressed. Like the years before Cleo expected her father to be downstairs waiting for her at the dining room table. Each year they had always had breakfast together and he had given her presents. Often he was distracted or busy doing something else at the same time, but still this time was important to her. Cleo knew it was a sad day for her father... it was the day he lost his wife and dreams of a son.

Demetrius had woken up very early that morning; his only reason, being that he wanted to say farewell to Valius before he went off to do his own business elsewhere. He respected the man greatly, but he never put himself in the place as his son. Valius was like Demetrius' closest friend, except for the fact that their ages hugely differed. The thirteen year old boy was currently sitting alone at the dining table, sipping tea. Tea used to be very hard for him to drink before Valius sealed some of his magic away. The tea would always go cold in a matter of minutes. He could faintly hear Cleo's awakening, and only smirked at his reflection in the dark liquid contained in his mug. The steam that oozed out of the mug soon vanished. He knew today wasn't going to be good for Cleo, and just hoped to see her give up on her father so that he didn't have to see her as much.

Cleo slipped on a pair of dark jeans and a light pink shirt. A smile was plastered on her face as she then ran a brush through her chocolate brown hair. She was excited. This was the one day of the year which she got to spend time with her father without having to prove herself. Once she was already she came racing down the stairs. As she rounded the corner she spotted Demetrius sitting at the table... and her father was nowhere to be seen. Her face fell a little. Cleo didn't say anything as she walked in and sat at the chair on the opposite side of the table. Without having to say anything one of the maids brought her over a cup of juice. "Thank you" Cleo said as her maid left the room.

Demetrius was remained in his seat as Cleo sat down. Seeing her excitement die wasn't pleasurable, but it was something he found interesting. He wondered if this was what would break her.

"Happy Birthday and Good Morning Cleo... Valius is in the garden waiting for you. He has a surprise." Demetrius was lying, but how could anyone tell with his very monotone voice.

Cleo looked up across the table as Demetrius spoke. She frowned at him but when he mentioned that her father was in the garden waiting for her she smiled. "Really? Thanks" Cleo said. She was surprised that he was actually being nice to her but then again it was her birthday, maybe he just realised that and figured he could give her a break. Cleo took a quick sip of her drink before getting up from the table and walking out of the living room. She headed out through the hallway and towards the front doors. Opening the doors she looked around but couldn't see her father. "Daddy?" Cleo called out as she stepped outside trying to see him. "Daddy?" She called out again as she wondered outside, still unable to see where he was. What was this surprise?
Demetrius mildly smiled as Cleo left the table. He took his time finishing off his tea, before he got up from his seat and headed for the front door. There was a surprise out there, but not one she would have expected. After Valius had left, Demetrius had decided to freeze the vegetation in the garden. The plants died from the extreme cold, but Demetrius had no feelings toward such things. When he reached the front door, he made sure it was closed and locked it before he headed upstairs.

Cleo wondered around the side of the house and that was when she saw it. The whole garden! She was going to kill him! There was not going to be any stopping her this time. Cleo turned around and ran back to the door. As she turned the handle she realised it was locked. "Demetrius get back here and open the door!" Cleo screamed, rage filling her body. Not only was there ice covering her garden but there was no sign of her father. She banged on the door a few times before giving up. Cleo then headed around the back of the house to where the door leading into the kitchen was open. She walked inside and called out to Demetrius. "Demetrius? Where are you? I am going to kill you" Cleo screamed out as she headed towards the dining room, checking if he was in there.

Demetrius could hear the call from Cleo from his room. He first wondered how she got into the house, but remembered that she wasn't dumb enough not to know about the back door. He was sitting cross-legged on his bed, meditating. His room was very cold at the moment as he practiced using his magic. Demetrius found Cleo's threat amusing enough to actually leave his room and head to the steps. He didn't go down them, but instead just sat at the top of them.

"As if you could Cleo. Did you get your beautiful gifts...? And my bad about your father's absence. He left hours ago to see his other family." Demetrius would antagonize Cleo as much as he could, especially without Valius to stop him.

Cleo turned around the instant she heard Demetrius voice coming from the stairs. Every word which came out of his mouth just made her all the more mad. What he had done to the garden? Well that just spoke for itself... then him knowing that her father wasn't here and he had another family? Well if she thought she could have killed him before then she was certainly going to kill him now. She emerged from the living room and looked up at Demetrius sitting at the top of the stairs. "He doesn't have another family! You are the one with no family" Cleo yelled at him as she looked up at him, creating a vine which came out of the stairs that moved quickly to wrap around his throat.

Demetrius stared down at Cleo cleverly. He felt like he=was on top of the world until Cleo mentioned him having no family. The only thing that fuelled him now was anger. If there was a subject you didn't touch on, it was of his absent family. He had been so caught up with anger, the vine wrapped around his neck. It hadn't choked him though, only withering away as the sheer cold that emanating from Demetrius managed to kill it.

"You little... Bitch!" Demetrius yelled before getting up from the stairs and walking down the hall. "I am finally going to rid Valius of his greatest of burdens." Demetrius said as he entered Valius' armoury. He grabbed a short sword from the set of weapons and head back to the steps. "Say another thing about my family, and I'll make sure to give you a gift for your birthday." Demetrius said as he held the weapon.

She had expected him to do something to the vine that appeared near his neck, so when it was cracked and killed by the cold she wasn’t surprised. Cleo knew that her powers were weaker than his, yet hers were technically still developing. She still had time.

Cleo couldn't help but smile when Demetrius got up and took off down the hallway. It was a small victory. She had always known how he felt about his family and she knew that to say it would only anger him, yet today she wanted to anger him. Just like he knew that she got upset when he mentioned her relationship with her father, his lack of a family annoyed him. Cleo frowned though as he came back to the top of the stairs and was holding a sword.

β€œOh a gift? That sounds good. Wait... did your parent’s ever give you gifts for your birthday? Or did they not care at all? Because I can totally understand them not wanting you, I mean who would?” Cleo said in a spiteful voice. She knew that technically she didn’t have much chance of getting out of this without being hurt but that didn’t mean she was going to back down.

As soon as she finished talking, Cleo took off running down the hallway. To some it might have seemed like she was running away but Cleo was heading for where her father kept a sword at the back door. It was meant to be there for emergencies just in case one couldn’t make it upstairs to where the rest of the armour was.

All Demetrius could do was stare with a cold gaze down at Cleo as she spoke more of his family. His teeth gritted and his grip on the hilt of the sword tightened. He had no idea what he was going to do to Cleo, but would surely make her suffer for antagonizing him. When she darted off, Demetrius quickly made his way down the steps after Cleo.

"My family loved me! Unlike your father to you!" Demetrius shouted before spotting Cleo at the back door. "Sword fight? You won't beat me Cleopatra. Our potential is as close as the ground is to the sky." Demetrius said. As he held no stance, and only confidence in his words.

β€œAt least my father hasn’t given me up!” Cleo yelled back as she noticed some of the servants moving out of the way of the two children. They knew things were about to go from bad to worse and that nothing could stop these two and no one wanted to get between them. One of them even went off to see if they could find Valius, only to find that he wasn’t home.

β€œAnd maybe I don’t want to beat you. Just causing you pain is good enough for me” Cleo said as she picked up the sword. In fact, Cleo had never beaten him in a sword fight but there was always a first time. Despite never beating him, Cleo certainly was just as well trained.

Demetrius had tried to keep calm, but the mental blows she had been inflicting on him, casted away any means to stay focused. His hand holding the sword made a quick downward motion, slicing the table that had been beside him.

"Pain? You don't even know the meaning." One of the servants tried to approach Demetrius, but his sword was immediately inches from his neck. "Get away from me." He said with bitterness. The man backed away from the killing intent in the boy's eyes. Valius had trained the two well in combat, not knowing what could occur in his absence. Demetrius charged forward first, bringing his sword down at first and then swinging it up toward Cleo's neck.

The girl flinched when Demetrius brought the sword down through the table, obviously showing his strength but Cleo knew all too well that it was just a scare tactic. They had been taught by the same man so she knew what to expect. Cleo watched with a smirk as he threatened the servant as he approached. Shouldn’t’ they have known not to come anywhere near them? Cleo was still so upset at both Demetrius and her father that in that moment she wouldn’t have cared if this servant lived or died. Cleo didn’t even care if she died. Today was meant to be her special day and it had been ripped from her. All she cared about now was inflicting as much pain towards Demetrius as possible.

Cleo was watching Demetrius intently with a cold gaze as he brought the sword forward and she knew to expect an attack. She mimicked him, bringing her sword down but when she saw the change of movement the young ten year old girl darted to the side to avoid the attack. She twisted around and as she did she swung her own sword down towards Demetrius’ knee caps.

Demetrius almost thought he had Cleo with his attack, but she managed manoeuvrer away from the strike. She countered with a low attack to his knees. He smirked as his eyes watched her body movement. With his free hand, he thrust the oncoming blade down and moved his feet appropriately in order to stab the weapon into the floorboards. With her sword stabbed into the floor, he raised his sword wit

Cleo cried out in frustration as her sword became wedged into the floor boards. This was not good. She didn’t have time to think about it though as she saw out of the corner of her eye Demetrius swinging the sword down towards her shoulder. Quickly her hands reached up and grabbed hold of his wrist, stopping him from striking her. β€œJerk!” Cleo said as she began to twist his wrist around with both of her hands which were around his wrist. Her grip and twisting of Demetrius’ arm causing the sword to fall from his grip to the floor.

β€œHow will it feel to be beaten by a girl?” Cleo said as she stared into his eyes. At this point she used her ability to create vines out of the ground, making them wrap around his ankles so that he couldn’t move. Then just as a finishing touch she created some pretty pink flowers on the vines.

Demetrius had been halted, disarmed, and made a fool of by Cleo in just a few seconds. He wouldn't take in the defeat. He knew he didn't have access to a weapon, but neither did she. Demetrius' hand that had previously guided her blade into the floor shot up and gripped her throat.

"Don't get cocky." Demetrius said as his emotions seemed to settle, as if he forced them to. His hands were as cold as ice, perhaps even colder. His whole body began to give off a similar effect. The area around them began to drop in temperature. The vine at his ankles began to weaken, which allowed him to move his feet and slam Cleo back into the back door. His grip around her throat tightened as he held her against the door.

Cleo gasped as his hand shot up to her throat. It was a move she hadn't been expecting at all. She struggled against his grip but his hand was freezing cold against her skin and it was like it was stick there. Without having to see she felt the vines weaken and die around Demetrius' ankles but before she could do anything more her body was slammed back against the back door. She cried out in pain as by this stage she was struggling to breathe.

For a few moments she just struggled against his grip before Cleo managed to think of something to do. In one swift movement she brought her knee up straight towards Demetrius' groin. She felt it come into contact with him and inwardly felt good about what she had done. Even at a young age Cleo had learnt that it was the one spot no guy could stand being hurt. Cleo just hoped she had hit hard enough to make him let go as breathing was becoming harder and harder.

Demetrius thought he had this fight. All he would have had to do was wait for Cleo to pass out. There had to have been a god of mischief somewhere, because the sharpest of pains was felt in the young man's gut as Cleo's knee made contact with groin. Demetrius' eyes nearly popped out of his head from the pain. His grip loosened and the cold temperature was diminishing. Demetrius gasped for air as he placed his hands in between his leg and brought his knees inward. His body dropped to the ground

Cleo gasped for breath as she felt the hand fall away from her throat which now had a bright red mark around it. As she took a few breaths she then looked down at Demetrius who was on the ground, obviously in pain. Cleo couldn't help it but she burst out laughing. It was funny to see him in this much pain. "Looks like I win" She said with a grin as she simply stepped over him and headed towards the stairs. "I promise I won’t tell Daddy... actually no, I think I will" Cleo teased as she walked away from him.

Demetrius couldn't believe he was beaten by a ten year old girl. She had played a dirty moved, but the fact that he had not anticipated it, made him angrier. After a few minutes, the pain left him enough for him to pick himself up. None of the servants help him, only because they had been too afraid to approach the boy who they could tell was furious. Demetrius walked, with his legs slightly wobbling with each step. He grabbed sword that he stuck into the floor and pulled it out with as much force as he could exert. He made his way out the back door and to the frozen over garden.

"I have a present for you." Demetrius said before swinging his sword to the plants. Some of them might have had a chance to survive before, but not now. Demetrius was stomping on every fruit and vegetable he could, slicing the pedals off flower, and even killing the small animals that dwelled around the garden area. "Happy birthday Cleopatra! This is my gift to you!" Demetrius shouted as he rampaged through the yard.

Cleo had wondered back up to her bedroom by the time that Demetrius could actually move and was standing in front of the mirror looking at the red mark around her neck. It was ugly! Cleo wished that she had some make-up or something that was strong enough to cover it but she didn't. Before she could put anymore thought into it Cleo heard Demetrius' voice. What confused her was that it was coming from outside. Cleo wondered over to her open window as she saw what was happening down in the garden. Her eyes opened wide with shock at the damage he was doing. She was so angry. "Stop it" Cleo yelled as she turned away from the window and began running down stairs and out the front door to see what he was doing. "Demetrius stop it" Cleo said as she headed towards him. When he ignored her she repeated herself a little louder, a slight change to her voice as she did. "Stop it!" She said about a metre away from him. Her eyes seemed a little unfocused as she spoke.

Demetrius was having a field day with the garden, taking out all of his anger on it. A smirk was actually planted on his face as he slashed at it. Cleo's demands made him chuckle as he slashed back and forth. He was about to say 'Make me'. With her third demand however, Demetrius stopped his rampage. His sword was at his side, and he looked toward Cleo with a somewhat blank expression.

"Alright Cleo." He said as he just stood there, not making a single twitch.

It was strange. Cleo didn’t really understand what was going on. All she knew was that she couldn't stop looking at Demetrius and that for some reason he was listening to her. In her mind Cleo just wanted her garden put back together. This was all she could focus on. Her garden! It was the one place she could go and think where her ability was useful. Now Demetrius had ruined it. "Make it better..." Was all Cleo could mumble, yet those words were laced with the new ability which was running through her young body. The ability to make people do what she wanted.

Demetrius had no mental control over his actions. The boy couldn't even think for himself at the moment. It was as if Cleo's words were law in his mind. Cleo's next command, caused Demetrius to just nod to her and walk over to the dingy little shed in the yard. Demetrius took out all the tools and supplies he needed in order to 'make it better'. He didn't say a single word as he did what he was told.


An hour later, Valius finds himself entering through the front door. Servants grab his black cloak, and go to put it away. The servants had tried to cover up the damage that was done, but Valius had come too soon. He could see dead vines spouted from different parts of the house, damage done to the floor and table, and he could feel the use of magic. Valius glared at the servants, and their eyes looked toward the back door. Valius didn't say a word as he headed out the back door. He opened the door with furiosity, before seeing Demetrius carefully working on the garden while his daughter watched. Valius was baffled by what he saw, and immediately spoke in a commanding tone.

"What has been happening on the premises of my home while I was away? Explain yourselves!"

Cleo had stood there, still for about an hour watching Demetrius. All of her focus was on the older boy in front of her but as time went on she felt herself weakening. This was a new experience. Cleo had never felt like this before and it was confusing her. She watched as he did exactly as she told him to and the garden slowly began to take shape again. It was nowhere near as good as it had been before but it was clear that the boy was doing everything he could to make it better. When her father came home her attention was instantly drawn away from Demetrius, the magic connecting them breaking. Cleo turned to look at her father with a confused expression as she wobbled a little where she stood, her body weakened by the constant use of her new ability. "Daddy?" Cleo mumbled as she just looked at him.

Valius looked down at his daughter with a scowl. After she had mumbled her words, Valius moved toward her and swiftly backhanded his daughter in the face.

"I was supposed to receive an answer as to why my house has been touched by Imfamel!" Demetrius yelled before his scowl shot toward Demetrius. Demetrius almost had no idea what was going on, His hand were all dirty, and he had a shovel in his hand. The garden that he completely destroyed had been almost restored. Demetrius raised a brow before turning to Valius. His cold gaze met Valius' scowl, without even wincing.

"Cleo and I decided to have a training session in the house. It was a birthday present from me to her. The loser of the spar had to clean the garden." Demetrius lied before his eyes quickly glanced at Cleo. He would have hated to admit it, but he didn't like the way Valius treated her. The fact that she accepts this treatment, made him think little of it though. He lied for her, but Valius could easily tell that the boy was. Even with Demetrius' strong facial expressions, Valius saw right through the boy.

"That sounds much better... Demetrius, your punishment won't be as swift as Cleo's. I will inform you of it later." Valius turned from the two and entered the house in order to get to his private quarters.

Cleo looked up at her father with a look of desperation in her eyes. She knew that she had done the wrong thing but it was a mistake. She hadn’t meant to argue with Demetrius and spoil the house. After all, he had started it when he had frozen the garden and played that nasty trick on her. What happened though came out of the blue. Cleo hadn’t thought for one minute that he would hit her yet his hand swiftly struck out at her cheek. Cleo stumbled and almost fell to the ground from the force of it, her face stinging as tears formed in her eyes. No longer did she look up at her father but her eyes were focused on the ground, her whole body visibly flinching as her father yelled.

Cleo just stood there, tears running down her face as Demetrius began to talk. He had always been quick to think on his feet and at most times this fact annoyed her. It meant that when they had been arguing he normally was able to think something up that incriminated her. Yet this time she was shocked that he in fact stood up for her, well them but it still meant that he stood up for her. He had never done that before.

As her father walked away Cleo burst into tears as she dropped to the ground. This was the worst birthday ever. Her hand reached out to press against her cheek which was hot and hurting. It wasn’t that often that her father would actually physically hurt her, normally it was just mentally.

Demetrius walked past Cleo, without saying a word. His mind was on another subject already, thinking of his punishment. Before Demetrius could place his hand on the back door, he turned his head toward the whimpering Cleo.

"Stop weeping. Crying from pain is for the weak, Cleo." Demetrius said before turning the knob of the door and pushing it open. Upon entering, a servant approached the young man. Mr. Pendus wants you to complete a task as your punishment..." Demetrius raised a brow, wondering what this task could be. "He wishes for you to end the life of a man. A man that is called Modnar. The man was last spotted deep within the woods. He wears heavy armour, and is skilled with weapons. Kill him, and Valius may consider welcoming you back into this house once you step back out that door. Demetrius' eyes grew with shock before anger expressed itself.

"Alright, but if Valius is to interfere, I may consider making him a target." Demetrius said harshly

Cleo continued to stare at the ground until Demetrius spoke. She looked up at him with an angry expression as he told her to stop crying. It was none of his business if she cried or not. What did it matter to him? He had wanted her upset anyway, hadn’t that been what the point of his trick this morning been? He liked seeing her upset just as much as she liked seeing him upset. The only good thing about this situation was that he seemed to be in just as much trouble as she was.

The tears continued to roll down her cheek for another ten minutes or so before Cleo wiped her eyes. She knew that what had happened this morning was wrong. They had caused damage to the house just so that they could hurt one another. It didn’t make sense when she looked back at the situation. Cleo sighed softly as the little girl got up from the ground. With one last look at the garden Cleo wondered back over to the house. As she walked a few flowers grew out of the soil.

Once inside Cleo headed towards her father’s office. She didn’t see Demetrius on her way there and figured he must be off sulking somewhere. Reaching the door she knocked quietly, waiting for permission to enter. On more than one occasion she had forgotten to knock and found herself kicked down a flight of stairs as punishment.

On the other end of the door, Valius had been meditating, before he had been in deep focus, he heard a soft knock on his door. He didn't like being disturbed, but at least no one was barging in. He opened the door, looking down at his daughter with a cold stare.

"What is it? Why have you disturbed my work?" Valius asked.

Cleo felt as if she could have shrunk down beneath the floor with just that one look that he had given her. Walking up to the door she had felt confident but all that was lost with one look from her father. "I.... I ummm, I wanted to say I was sorry" Cleo mumbled quietly but loud enough for her father to hear. Her cheek was still red from the violent strike from her father, her eyes were red from the crying and even her neck was still red from where Demetrius had been holding her.

Valius' eyes first looked upon his daughter with coldness, but his hard look softened as he looked at her face that was half red. He put his hand to her chin, and moved her face to the side to see what damage he had caused. His eyes then narrowed.

"You do not need to apologize. You have already received your punishment for your misbehaviour. You're tears already tell me how sorry you are." Valius removed his hand from her face and looked toward the window at the end of the hall. "You're very lucky that you hadn't lied to me... If there is one thing I despise more, its disloyalty." Valius turned back to Cleo, his cold gaze returned. His hand then set atop of Cleo's head. "Your trust is something I treasure Cleo. If you throw it away, I won't show mercy upon you. Demetrius may not return, so get used to not seeing him. He will be an example. Do you understand?" Valius asked.

A six year span of productiveness and progression. That is what it had become between the loosely tied Valius, Cleopatra, Devin and Demetrius. The ambitious Valius had been going on ventures and learning of the Concordia's legends and great battles. He had been slowly getting people to see things the way he saw them. He was stripping people away from the comfort of their gods, and toward greed and pride. His rebellion was kept secret, and was only rumoured. No evidence could pinpoint in Valius' direction.

He hadn't been the only one who was finding these years glorious. Young Cleo was not as young anymore. She was maturing into a young adult and was now sixteen years of age. With Demetrius gone, and father having few to trust, he gave Cleo the spotlight. He trained her as best as he could when he wasn't out doing business and even gave her the full responsibility of holding down the house while he was away. Valius had purchased more land for Cleo to spread her garden into, and seemed to show pride toward her. Demetrius was nothing but old news... or so Cleo thought.

Meanwhile, in the depths of the woods, Devin was trained vigorously by the warrior Modnar. He trained the boy as best as he could, and found that even at such a young age, Scythe was promising. Yes, Scythe was no longer known as Devin, as Modnar had said years ago. Scythe was someone who could hold his own better than anyone his age. He had no peers when it came to talent. Modnar predicted the boy becoming more powerful than him.

Demetrius, however, didn't bask in glory like the others. He took comfort with what he knew best. After being defeated by Modnar, he ventured elsewhere. There was no way he could have survived in the forest alone, so he travelled from village to village, teaching himself in solitude. The great God of Wisdom guided the young man, in understanding the source of his power. He became as cold as his magic, or perhaps it was the opposite. He obtained a weapon, a choice from his respective god. He was told that it would take six years to make a fool out of Imfamel's disciple, and that's how long Demetrius

With the moment finally rising, Demetrius ventured back into those woods, where Modnar had been training Scythe. Modnar had easily recognized the now nineteen year old man, and took his challenge. Every time Modnar attempted his magic ability to confuse his enemy, Demetrius countered. He kept up with Modnar this time... No, he moved even faster than he did.

"I'm sorry that you must experience the coldest of deaths." Demetrius said in almost monotone. Modnar only roared as he charged the young man, only to be stopped by a hand. It was none other than Valius, standing in between the two.

"Good work Demetrius... You didn't fail me. You're loyalty is eternal." Valius said to Demetrius as Modnar stared into Valius' eyes with shock.

"So, you've finally showed?" Modnar said as rid himself of vigour. He had ordered Scythe to stay out of a warrior's battle, and only allowed him to watch from a distance. The man's red eyes turned to Scythe before his eyes glowed brightly. "I told you that I would teach you. Well this is your next step. Valius' hand glowed as brightly as Modnar's eyes did, before the light engulfed Modnar. Demetrius was bewildered by what was happening, and was even more confused, when he saw nothing but Modnar's armour lying on the ground. The wrappings that had been around Modnar's face was also on the forest floor.

"What? Was he..?" Demetrius asked as he tried to guess.

"Yes. Only I can bring this boy to his true potential... Only I." Valius said as he turned to Scythe along with Demetrius. Demetrius was curious as to who the boy was until he began to remember.

"Your test... It was to prove my loyalty?" Demetrius said more than asked. "I would kill you if I didn't see my gain in all this." Demetrius added. Valius snickered before walking toward Scythe.

"Come! I am your new master! You'll be able to sleep in a bed for once in your life." Valius said with authority.

Scythe watched on with no expression. No emotion at all. He did however listen and in return Modnar died a warrior’s death. Scythe walked closer to where his teacher had fallen and stared at his armour as he held onto his scythe. β€œA noble death teacher. Halikair was right, he would see you soon enough.” Scythe turned his head and stared at Valius and Demetrius. He blinked once and just kept staring. β€œI see. You are mistaking in something however. I have no master except myself.” Just as nonchalantly as he spoke he leapt up grasping his Scythe in one hand, a potion in the other. Activating both of his magic skills he tossed the would be firebomb towards Valius but more at Demetrius.

He didn’t even see where it went. No he just went at Valius with a swing of his scythe. His eyes were bleeding as well as the knuckles on both his hands. β€œYou will learn that I have no master. To learn that, I’m sure Halikair will teach you. Now I will just send you to him.”

What Modnar had created was wonderful to Valius' eyes. Even when facing the child in battle, Valius was awe struck. Demetrius on the other hand was a little surprised in the boy's advancement. Both Valius and Demetrius could do nothing, but split in opposite directions. Scythe's first move had been a tactical one. As Demetrius avoided the grenade of a potion, he turned to his master who looked vulnerable without a weapon.

"Valius?" Demetrius said, not in worry though, but in confusion.

"Demetrius, who was the one who trained you?" Valius said in response to Demetrius' confusion. "This boy will not touch me. I am his master after all. He said as he looked Scythe in the eyes. Demetrius' confusion vanished as he watched his master’s hidden movements. He had never witnessed Valius using his true magic until now. Valius' eyes had red tint to them, the exact same tint that Modnar had. In an instant, Valius was a few feet behind Scythe.

"How didn't he..." Demetrius said softly to himself.

β€œScythe... It was in Modnar's will for you to serve beside me." Valius said.

Scythe didn’t show any fear or surprise at the technique. He was taught not to. He just had to re assess the situation. β€œImpressive. You were able to evade my sight for a moment there. How though? A different dimension, perhaps you can teleport, or fade in on out of existence. In any case it seems you are unable or unwilling to strike after it. Either way I don’t really care.”


He twirled his scythe around and lunged at Demetrius without hesitation. β€œYou’ve left your ally unprotected.” Halikair began glowing a crimson red as he swung it attempting to slice Demetrius in half vertically. Scythe’s ability was dangerous even to Modnar since Blood Range disguised his range, and he had sparred with him before. It was very likely that an opponent not knowing his ability would fail to doge the attack enough to escape unharmed from this attack, even though it wasn’t a very pinpointed attack. More a wild strike.

Valius chuckled at Scythe's words, and only watched as his future heir fought against one of his most promising warriors. Demetrius never lost his guard, not even if he knew of the battle. Scythe was good with his movement in battle, both men could see that, but his change in focus was his flaw. Demetrius hopped to the side before the weapon came down upon him.

"I won't waste time with you, child." Demetrius said coldly before he quickly moved past the scythe and went for a slash across Scythe's torso.



Scythe just smiled. He could see the way Demetrius would move, once he committed himself to it in his mind. However to keep that a secret would probably be the better move at this point. As Demetrius moved, Scythe purposely left him an opening to move in. Just as he guessed, Demetrius took the bait. β€œSo predictable.” Scythe grinned as he pulled his knife and let Demetrius’ blade come in.


He wore armour underneath his clothes so he did in fact know he would survive the attack and be able to heal it off with a potion or two. Scythe moved into Demetrius’ attack and lunged his blood rage infused dagger directly at Demetrius’ Chest. Both his hands were now bleeding from the use of his ability. It likely wasn’t a fatal blow, but it was sure to hurt him like a bitch and at such a close range impossible to completely dodge. Scythe wasn’t afraid to take a hit as long as it meant he made contact with his opponent.


"I may have to save Demetrius... Not a trace of passion seems to be escaping him." Demetrius dealt his blow with a single goal in mind. "How can someone fight without an ounce of passion?" Valius spoke as he watched the movements of the fight. Demetrius saw what was coming, and his goal was still in mind. He would show Valius what he had abandoned for so long. He embraces the power of his magic. He allowed Scythe to pierce him, only so he could remain close to his foe. His free hand placed over Scythe's that had been gripping Halikair.


"I apologize..." Demetrius said his eyes shut. The man had replaced his passion... No, he sacrificed it. He sacrificed his emotions for power, for control.


"DEMETRIUS!" Valius screamed. The man looked horrified as he felt the young man's cold intentions. Demetrius winced from the pain inflicted on him, blood dripping from his chest. Demetrius backed away from the now ice cold body of Scythe. The boy's body had been in such shock, that there would be no way for him to recover. Demetrius had used the boy's self inflicted wounds to critically damage him. Valius pushed Demetrius aside, only staring at Scythe with a look of shock. "What did you do!? What did you do to my he-" Valius stopped when Demetrius moved him away from Scythe.


"He'll be fine. We'll deal with him when he's up and not swinging his weapon at us." Demetrius looked straight toward at Scythe before giving the boy a push in order to knock him down. The boy's will was strong enough to keep up after such an attack.

"Let... Let us head back home then. I'm sure Cleo will be glad to see someone she could probably call her brother back home again."

"Agreed." Demetrius said.

Scythe paused as he felt the cold creep up his body. He could’ve slit the man’s throat, cut him clear in half or so many other things but it wasn’t worth it. He already took a hit and he still didn’t have a way to combat Valius at the moment. Besides without Modnar, he had no reason to stay here and a bed did sound like a decent idea. His point was already proven anyway. He bowed to no one, and he was his own master. This strategy right now was more like a tactical retreat.

β€œMy soul and mind have been empty and cold for years. It’s about time my body finally matched it.” After witnessing the freak out Valius had and Demetrius’ smug words Scythe was able to pull a grin off. β€œNext time we meet on the battlefield.... I will tear out your throat with my bare hands. Look forward to it.”

With that Demetrius pushed him over and he lay on the ground. He could probably infuse blood rage into his own body enough to warm him up and potion up, but it wasn’t worth it. As he just laid there on the ground he thought to himself, This is the last time I’ll be laying on the ground from now on.


******
Back at home, Cleo was enjoying a day out in the gardens surrounding the house. It was where she spent most of her time these days practising her ability. It was also one of the places where she felt most at peace. These last few years hadn’t been easy but they had been better than the start of her life. Cleo could finally say that she felt like she was number one in her father’s life. She still knew that his work came first but when it came to people, Cleo knew that he thought of her highly and this made her proud.

Yet things were not easy for her. Her father went away often and when he was home he was either in his study or he was training her. At first Cleo had enjoyed the training but as she got older it got harder and harder. Each time she was pushed to the limits but consequently she had become a fantastic fighter.

One thing that had also changed was her appearance. Cleo was no longer a little girl and had grown up to be a very beautiful young woman at the age of sixteen. Her body curved in all the right places and would have been enough to make any man turn his head and stare, that was if she had been allowed out of the grounds, which was rare. Many of the servants who had been with Valius for years often would comment on how much she looked like her mother.

Today though, Cleo was out in the gardens trying to perfect the art of making petals float back up from the ground and back onto the trees. She was quite enjoying herself despite the small drain on her abilities. As she was practising she heard the sound of voices and figured out that her father must be home. A smile on her lips she walked back up to the house to greet him, heading inside the back door and walking through the hallway towards the front door.

After a venturing walk, Valius, Demetrius, and Scythe had arrived back to Valius' home. Demetrius found the house he once lived in to be surrounded by more land, in looking much nicer than when he had left.

"How was that potion?" Valius asked Demetrius who was carrying Scythe over his shoulder. He had been given the burden of carrying the boy since he put him down. Valius held the boy's scythe.

"It's better than anything I've ever used." Demetrius admitted before the two reached the steps. His wound was healing fast, making him curious as to what this boy stored in these potions he kept with him

"Modnar was great warrior long ago. I wouldn't have ever doubted his expertise when it came to survival." Demetrius just nodded at Valius' words. Upon entering the house, Valius pointed to the first servant he could see. "You! Lay the boy down and grab him some blankets!" Demetrius ordered. The servant grabbed Scythe from Demetrius and lied him down on one of the couches, while another grabbed as many blankets as he could find.

"Does my room still exist? Demetrius asked before Valius nodded and placed the scythe in a corner next to the coat rack.

"Take it... What use would I have had for it?" Valius answered. The young man holding his sword went toward the staircase. Just as Demetrius began heading up the steps, Cleo came toward the front door. Demetrius briefly turned around to see the girl who he had once despised, not knowing who she was until Valius spoke once more. "Cleo, it's indeed a pleasure to see you. We have two guests that need tending to, so be easy on the servants." Valius said starting off with a smile that slowly faded. Demetrius stared at Cleo for a moment, taking in the changes she had gone through in the six years of his absence. Demetrius turned away after getting a good look, and headed up the stairs without a word to say to the young woman.

"Valius! Our spar starts to tomorrow. Be ready." Demetrius said with some authority without even turning back t face the man. Valius smirked when seeing the man Demetrius had become. In twelve years he had accomplished so much under the noses of the Wolfsbane.

Scythe let them carry him all the way back. There was no need for him to fight it, after all they wanted this. Eventually he did lose consciousness a few times on and off but it wasn’t really noticeable with how still he stayed. The one thing that annoyed him was when they stole a potion of his. Unicorn blood wasn’t the easiest ingredient to come across and he did have to add in his own blood while he was blood raging for maximum effect. Of course there were many other factors, but over the years he perfected the potion even more so then Modnar.

After they had arrived Scythe was wrapped in blankets and laid on the couch. After the short talk he heard between a few people, he infused his whole body with his blood rage ability. The whole body warmed up from the heated blood, but at the same time, many parts of his body began to bleed. After his body warmed and blood was soaked into the couch and the blanket he grabbed a potion and drank it down. One of the servants stared at him, but he just glared.

β€œKeep your eyes to yourself or I’ll rip them out and start a collection.” He said with a smirk as he sat up the couch. β€œThanks for the ride.” He said know knowing and/or caring if Demetrius could hear him. He sat there, just looking around the room. Other than some servants he was alone. β€œWhere am I now?” He asked himself, but out loud.

Cleo was more than shocked to see that there were two people with her father, although she recovered quickly. She was kind of use to her father bringing people home for the night. With a smile still planted on her lips she looked back at her father. β€œYes Father and it is good to see you too” Cleo said in a soft voice. β€œIs there anything I can do for them?” She asked as one of them took off up the stairs. Cleo found this quite rude but didn’t say anything. After all, her father had brought worse home.

Her attention then turned to the younger boy who was on the couch. He seemed like he had a real attitude but she couldn’t help but wonder if maybe this was just because he was hurt. Cleo’s eyes then went back to her father as she awaited further instruction.

Valius' eyes left Demetrius' back as the man was no longer seen after going up the last step. His focus shifted to his daughter immediately.

"Cleo, you can tend to the child, but I don't believe you can handle him. His name is... Scythe. Valius' eyes darted to and from the couch before taking a breath. "It appears you have blood to clean up. I'll be in the garden if there is a problem." Valius said before Valius whipped his head toward the top of the steps. He felt something that resembled a cool breeze. It had only lasted a few seconds. "You can introduce yourself to that one." Valius said before opening the front door and walking around the house to the back.

Cleo frowned a little when her father told her that he didn't think she could handle the child. She didn't even know how to respond to that. Instead she just remained silent as he mentioned that there was blood to clean up. Cleo wasn't one to do chores like that but nodded her head. She would organise for one of the staff to do it. It was one of the perks of running the house; she didn’t have to do any work which she didn’t want to.

When her father mentioned for her to go upstairs and introduce herself Cleo simply nodded her head again. β€œYes father” Cleo said as she waited for her father to leave before turning to one of the servants. β€œCan you please take care of that blood? Maybe put some plastic or something underneath the boy to stop it getting on the furniture?” Cleo suggested as the lady simply nodded her head and went in search of cleaning products. With one last glance over at the young boy Cleo headed over to the stairs, walking up in search of the man who had disappeared up there.

Downstairs the servant came back with some plastic sheets and cleaning products. β€œHello... can you move? We just need to move you onto the other couch to stop the blood from soaking into the fabric” The lady explained as she moved to lay the plastic on the other couch. A smile was evident on her face. She was one of the nicer servants in the house, especially when it came to children.

Scythe heard took the blood soaked blanket off of him. He stared at the servant who was explaining that they wanted to plastic the couches. He got up and cracked his neck. β€œDon’t bother. My wounds are healed now so I won’t be bleeding anymore.” He turned away from her and walked over to his scythe that Valius had leaned against the wall. Once he had it in hand he looked back to the woman. β€œDo you all need to listen to me as well? If so I require some items.”

He pulled a potion out to describe some things to the woman hoping someone could fetch what he wanted. β€œI will need as many flasks like these as you can get me. I also require a live deer, a live bear cub, and Unicorn blood. Please tell me when you have gathered those items.”

He put his potion away and then just looked around some more. What was he supposed to do now? He didn’t know anyone, Modnar as well as everyone else he’d ever know was dead, he didn’t even know where he was. "Why does all this happen to me?” was all he could think to himself.

As soon as Demetrius had hit the top of the steps, he made his way to his old room. His first sight of it, made him scowl. Nothing had been really been done with the room, except for the fact that it had basically become Cleo's half again. The room was basically her storage. Demetrius calmed when he saw that his bed was clear. It was the only thing the man needed of the room. Demetrius took a seat on his old bed that almost seemed untouched. He placed his sword beside him and just shut his eyes as he took a deep breath. He was taking everything in. He had a home again. He was going to probably take a rest after a warm bath, but the heavy sound of footsteps on the wooden floorboards centred his attention onto the doorway of his room.

"Who is it?" Demetrius asked before the person even came to view.

Cleo wondered up the steps and as she stepped into the hallway she heard a voice call out asking who was there. One thing that did catch her off guard was that the voice came from her bedroom. With a confused expression she walked over to her doorway and when she looked inside the huge room she spotted the man from before sitting on the bed which had once been Demetrius' bed. "Umm... sorry but this is my room" Cleo said in a soft voice, trying to be polite. "I can show you to a spare one down the hallway if you wish?" She suggested as she wondered into the room. "Oh and I'm, Cleo... what is your name?" The girl asked as she ran her fingers through her hair absent mindedly. He was cute after all.

Demetrius had watched Cleo enter the room with a confused look on her face. He had been expecting a dirty look or some kind of insult upon first notice, but she seemed to be clueless as to who he was. Demetrius found this amusing, but only let small smirk escape him. He didn't really focus on moving to a different room, only because he was more focused on witnessing Cleo's change in demeanour.

"I can't believe you don't recognize me Cleo..." With his words came a faint chill that breezed through the room. "Then again, I almost didn't recognize you either... How have you been?" Demetrius asked out of plain curiosity.

Cleo looked at him, still confused as he acted like he knew her. She had no idea who he was as she tried to rack her brain to figure it out. It wasn't until the cold breeze hit her cheeks that she realised who it was. Her expression changed dramatically from the friendly smile to one of pure hatred. "What are you doing back here?" Cleo said, not even bothering to answer his question about how she had been. "Get out of my room!"

Demetrius couldn't help but keep the smirk on his face. He didn't think her hate for him could stick with her for a whole six years. He didn't want to start a fight in Valius' home. He remembered where that got him. Demetrius raised himself from the bed, grabbing his sword, and making his way toward the doorway.

"I guess I'm taking the guest room." Demetrius said as he passed Cleo. "I thought you would at least give me a kinder welcome after I lessened your punishment all those years ago." Demetrius said before his body disappeared from the doorway. He made his way back down the steps, and gave a quick nod to all he walked by. He looked at one of the servants as he took a seat at the dining room table. "Get me some tea, please." Demetrius asked with his sword rested on the wooden table.

Cleo's mouth dropped open when he said that he had lessened her punishment six years ago. In Cleo's mind he hadn't done that at all. He had lied... her father didn't like people who lied. Cleo although she had stumbled up on her words hadn't lied and that was what had saved her from a worse punishment. She stood there for a moment or two before she followed him down the steps, not even glancing at the servants who were around. Cleo finally reached him as he sat down in the dining room.

"You didn't lessen my punishment at all... it was your fault that I got punished at all" She said as she glared at him. "You took it upon yourself to make sure that my tenth birthday was a mess... it’s one thing for my father to have not shown up, but you just thought it would be damn right funny to make sure there wasn't one good thing that came out of that day" Cleo said as she stared right back at him. "Well you were wrong... you being kicked out of the house that day was the best thing that ever happened to me"

Demetrius listened to Cleo's words without a wince or a flinch in his cold expression. Years ago, he would have snapped back at Cleo, but Demetrius couldn't find a place in him to let that part of him out. His cold gaze had been looking into her eyes, not leaving them with every word she said.

"I lied on purpose... You're father knew that. He didn't banish me from here because I lied. Is that what he told you? Is that what your father lied to you about? Your father hated the fact that I tried to mislead him to protect you. You of all people... on the day you had taken the life of the one he loved and cherished more than anyone in all of Concordia... Cleo, you will never come to understand your father. Never..." Demetrius said in his low monotonic voice. His eyes left hers and looked toward the kitchen when his tea was being brewed.

Cleo stared back at him as her insides broke. Demetrius had always known exactly how to upset her the most. It was the one thing that she would never be able to make up for... killing her mother. It took all her strength not to burst into tears right on the spot. Instead she kept a cold expression on her face. "At least I have a father..." Cleo said to him as she used her ability which she normally kept hidden. Focusing on Demetrius she made him ball his fist and she then focused on making him punch himself in the face. "Hope you enjoy your stay" She said before turning to leave, her hips swaying as she walked, feeling a little bit of satisfaction in being able to make him hurt himself.

Cleo's blow at him not a having a father at all seemed to brush off him as easily as dust, but what came at that same moment surprised him. He felt a blunt blow to his face, a punch. He look in the direction of the attacker, only to find his fist balled up. His head whipped toward Cleo's backside with a bewildered look. He didn't know whether or not she had done it. She must have, because he hadn't felt that feeling of confusion since the time he found himself tending to the garden he thought he was destroying.

"Valius... You're a friend." Demetrius whispered to himself as he awaited his tea which a servant was bringing him at the moment.

"Be careful, this is very hot sir." The woman delivering his tea cautioned.

"Thank you for your concern." The woman held the mug filled with hot tea with cloth. As she handed the tea to Demetrius, he grabbed the mug with his bare hands. The servant's eyes nearly popped out of her head. He sipped the tea. After finishing his cup of tea, Demetrius headed toward the back door. He more wanted to see the garden out back than Valius.

Scythe looked around while Cleo went up to meet Demetrius, again. There were a lot of nice things in this place. Nice and expensive things. Scythe didn’t care for them though. Not after living half his life out in the forest, fighting every day for survival. No all that mattered to him besides survival, was his Scythe and his two knives, having received a second one made of silver from Modnar. That was when he came upon it.

He had never seen such a thing before so when he saw it, he thought it was very much real, alive, and angry. There was a bear that stood in the corner, stuffed of course. Taxidermy wasn’t exactly the most common thing when fighting for your life, so he’s never even seen it before. He grasped Halikair tightly and lunged at the creature. With a single swipe he had cut the thing in half, not even requiring Blood Rage. He’d fought bears before; they weren’t that tough as long as you didn’t hesitate.

This one though was exceptionally easy. Walking closer he examined the remains. The lower half still stood, and the insides were stuffed with some kind of foam or something? What matter of trickery was this anyway? Scythe just didn’t know and he turned around. He headed back outside to where he was first brought in. There were plastic covering the couches now and everything seemed to be cleaned up. There was also no one around.

He decided that he’d look around some more, although that hadn’t worked for the best before. He found himself walking up the stairs. That was when he noticed a woman, younger than most of the other servants around. She didn’t dress like them either. The old man had told her to take care of him though. So was she a servant too? He was too curious to not ask. β€œWhy do you dress differently from the others? Is there something special about you?”

As Cleo walked out of the dining room and away from Demetrius she spotted the boy who had been bleeding on the couch heading towards the stairs with his weapon back in hand. She wondered what power he had. If she knew anything about her father it was that he didn't waste his time with people who were not powerful. He seemed to study her for a moment before talking. Cleo was shocked. He thought she was a servant? Was he crazy?

"Yes there is something special about me. I am the lady of this house. Valius is my father" Cleo explained to him. "And what is so special about you for you to be brought here?" Cleo said, feeling no shame about returning the question.

Scythe looked at her. So she was the lady of the house, but she was treated like a servant? What an odd custom. When she returned his question he turned his head sideways and looked at her. "That is a good question. I'm not sure. Do you need to be special to be here? All I know is that your father thinks he owns me. He's wrong. I'm no one's pet." Scythe put his weapon on his back and was prepared to continue the conversation. He didn't really know anyone outside of Modnar who was now dead, so he actually did enjoy what little conversation time he got with other people.

When he said that he wasn't sure if he was special this confused Cleo. Everyone her father brought here was special... maybe this boy just didn't know what made him special yet. Cleo would place bets though that her father did. When he commented on being on ones pet Cleo laughed. "Oh you have a lot to learn. We are all like his pets... even Demetrius" Cleo said, laughing softly. "You will figure it out soon enough" She said as she figured she might as well show him around. "I can show you to your room. You will be sharing with Demetrius" Cleo said, thinking it would be the perfect way to mess with him.

Scythe shook his head when she said that he would learn soon enough. He refused to be anyone's little puppy. However when she said that he would be sharing a room with Demetrius, he just smiled deviously. "Perfect. Now I will have the perfect chance to kill him without any struggle. I do owe him one for that little frosting trick, and it would be little trouble for me to slice off his head as he sleeps. Yes that will be perfect, please do show the way. My name is Scythe by the way." He said unsure if they were ever introduced on the way in.

Cleo was a little taken back when this boy went off about cutting off Demetrius' head in his sleep. In all honesty she couldn't say the idea hadn't come to her all those years ago when they were sharing a room, yet she had never said it out loud and never acted upon it. "Umm ok then... well try not to get too much blood across the room" Cleo said, recovering quickly as she showed him the way upstairs and into the spare room which had two beds in it and that was pretty much it apart from the odd piece of furniture which was used for housing clothing.

Scythe followed Cleo to where his new room was. He looked at the two beds once inside. They both seemed untouched, it seemed that Demetrius had yet to choose one. Scythe picked which one he wanted and pulled down the covers looking at the sheet covering just the mattress. He activated his blood rage ability on his hand and let some blood drip on it. He didn't mind sleeping in his own blood, and this marked it as his. Then he looked at the second bed and took the scythe off his back. With two swipes he had cut the legs off the bed, as well as sliced it in half. Returning the scythe to his back and wrapping his now bloody hand in the pillowcase from Demetrius' bed he turned back to Cleo. "You want to have the servant’s plastic the room like the couches just to be safe." He spoke with all seriousness in his voice. If she was worried about the blood splatter then maybe that was the best idea.

Cleo had thought that there was a chance that he might have been joking but when he spoke so seriously she realised that he was deadly serious. "Umm... maybe since it is going to be your room you can have as much blood as you want in there... just keep the door shut" Cleo said as she sighed a little. This kid was crazy. However if he killed Demetrius then he would be her new best friend. "Maybe I will just let you settle in, I was going to head out to the garden" Cleo said, hoping to get rid of Mr. Crazy and get back to her practise with the petals.

Scythe sighed. "Yes I suppose so." He'd learned to not settle in anywhere. It never turned out well for anyone. "I won't be here for long so don't worry. I'm not even sure why I'm here now. I any case I am in need of Unicorn blood, as well as a live Deer and Bear. Do you have any idea where I may find such creatures?" He really wished to start restocking on his potions, especially since they had left most of his hidden stash behind. He had about 10 on him and that was it. With his ability, that wouldn't last him too long.

Why the hell did he want those? He was getting stranger by the minute. "Umm... you will have to speak to my father about that" Cleo said, thinking it easier to dismiss this kid off to her father. "I will be in the garden if you need me" Cleo said as she turned and walked out of the room. Slowly she began to head back downstairs and towards the back door. That kid was crazy and he unnerved Cleo. Then again, Cleo didn't want to get on the bad side of him, not unless it was necessary.

Valius had been in the garden, staring out toward nothingness, he was in deep thought and found the garden to be one of the most tranquil places where he could think things through. He already knew who was coming before the person had spoke.

"Valius, I must ask you. How do you plan on achieving your goals? Goals which are the equivalent to a peasant dreaming of becoming a god?" Demetrius asked as he strolled into the centre of the garden where there was stone flooring. There was possibly enough room for a few people to stand on this stone flooring without touching any vegetation. Demetrius was very intrigued by it.

"You will see soon enough my dear boy. We are approaching a new age, and your role in it will be revealed soon enough." Valius explained before noticing Demetrius' interest in the garden. "Cleo has done much work on it since your departure. I hope you aren't eying the garden in hopes of destroying it." Demetrius chuckled at Valius' words.

"Not in the least. Your daughter is a rose with that I do not wish to pick... Her thorns are very sharp." Demetrius responded.

"A rose? Is there more to my daughter's relation to the rose than the thorns?" Valius joked.

"I don't think I should give you the chance of using my own words against me." Demetrius said

"Words? I was only speaking of your feelings my boy." Valius joked. Demetrius only laughed lightly before taking a seat, cross-legged in the centre of the stone floor. "What now?" Valius asked, looking at Demetrius with squinted eyes.

"Control... I want to use my magic to its fullest without harming the plants around me." Demetrius informed.

"And if you f-"

"I won't. I don't want to pick the rose." Demetrius said before shutting his eyes. Valius turned his attention back to his own thoughts and his upcoming plans.

Scythe watched Cleo leave the room and he walked out onto the balcony. He could see the garden. Some of the larger bushes intrigued him. They weren’t exactly close, but he thought he could jump to them with the right height. He left Halikair in the room and took out his daggers. Using them he scaled the walls and soon found himself on the rooftop. He walked over across it a bit, and then began to aim what would be the best jump. If he didn't make it he'd probably die, but Modnar did teach him to push his limits and fear nothing.


Cleo walked outside into the garden. She wished to continue the training she had been doing earlier before her father had arrived home. Also being out in the garden was where she felt most at peace. She had always been like that, enjoying the outdoors. When she was younger her Nanny of sorts used to have to drag her inside at night since the little girl wouldn’t leave the flowers. Yet as she walked out there, Cleo picked up the presence of someone in her garden. It wasn’t just one person either.

Looking around she spotted her father and Demetrius. Demetrius was sitting down crossed legged and to Cleo he looked as if he was going to start using his powers in her garden. Cleo didn’t care if her father was there; he was not going to destroy her garden again. Walking over to him she crossed her arms, a glare on her face. β€œYou had better not hurt my garden” Cleo said in a threatening but feminine voice that had the crisp of authority and confidence in it. After all, not only had she been brought up to fight by her father, but her many Nannies over the years had also made sure that she was brought up like a lady should.

Demetrius had been concentrating, trying to keep his focus on the small open space in the centre of the garden. Valius had begun to feel the brush of the cold emanating from Demetrius' body. The young man was taking things slow and steady. The radius of the space was the smallest he's ever fully concentrated on with the maximum extent of his magic. Everything seemed to be going well, until Cleo's authoritative voice broke the tranquillity of both Demetrius' and Valius' focus. Valius had only been thinking, so he only a swift cold gaze was sent toward her before raised both brows, wondering what words would be exchanged between the two. A heavy sigh escaped Demetrius, before his eyes looked up at Cleo with an 'I hate you' look on his face. The coldness was gone, and only apparent on Demetrius' face.

"Why would I do that, or even let such a thing happen?" Demetrius asked. He was testing what she said next with his absurd question. Valius' eyes glanced between the two. He read their emotions as if they were let loose by the words the two held back.

Cleo noticed both the cold expression from her father and from Demetrius but she wasn’t about to take a backwards step. This was her garden. Cleo had spent hours upon hours in this garden. It was her creation, her baby and she wasn’t about to see it destroyed at the hands of Demetrius, well not without a fight anyway. β€œWhy would you? Because you are you. Because you have done it once before. Because you obviously don’t care for beauty. Because you don’t like me. Because you are cruel and selfish and I don’t trust you” Cleo said as she stared at him, her eyes looking deep into his for a moment. She didn’t even glance at her father, knowing he probably wouldn’t be all that happy about this but thinking that maybe for entertainment he might let them go.

Cleo's answer was a little amusing to Demetrius, making him raise his eyebrows as she told him why he would destroy her garden. Surprisingly for him, he only agreed with a few things she had said. He would never let her know that though. A smirk showed on Demetrius' face as he got ready to respond. Valius remained silent, observing the two. He seemed to be the one man audience of the talk between his daughter and Demetrius.

"I have to say, you've become much brighter... I do have to let you know something though. I..." Demetrius paused as Valius placed his palm on his shoulder.

"Demetrius, I'm sure you can use somewhere else on my now spacious property as your training ground." Valius said before his eyes looked onto Cleo. He smirked at her to show that he was on her side.

"But..." Demetrius cut in.

"But nothing. This is my daughter's garden, and I can't have all her hard work go to waste, unless Cleo is fine with you being here." Valius said, already knowing how she felt about Demetrius.

Cleo was on guard as Demetrius said that she had become much brighter. She knew Demetrius and she knew that he never gave out a compliment, well not one that wasn’t backed up with an insult of sorts. This was especially true when it came to her. However, before it could come her father was speaking up and she turned to look at him. Cleo had expected to be told off, to be told that Demetrius was living here now and it was no way to speak to him and she needed to share. However those words never came either. Her father actually took her side and Cleo smiled at him slightly, glad that he had stuck up for her.

β€œI think I would prefer it if you stayed out of my garden” Cleo said with a slightly smug expression that also showed that she was just as shocked as Demetrius that her father had chosen her.

Scythe stood on the rooftop, near the edge. He was sizing up the jump. It wasn’t too close, and it was pretty high up, but that just made the adrenaline pump more. He could feel the blood pumping through his veins as he backed up. He backed up further and further, until he had a running start of about half the length of the rooftop. He just grinned as he crouched down and looked at his jump. In his head, he began counting down. 5.... 4..... 3..... 2.... 1.... Then bam he was off. It took him all of about 5 seconds to make the run and then he vaulted straight off the rooftop.

It was a close call as he flew through the air. Time seemed to slow down around him. The birds chirping grew slower, the wind around him, was only created by the force of his own body friction with the air. And then finally, after narrowly missing the gap, he landed on the bush he aimed for, and began plummeting through it. It wasn’t the best idea really since the branches and whatnot were now ripping up his flesh. Although it was a hell of a way down, and despite the cuts, he wouldn’t have done it differently. Finally after the longish fall he hit the ground. He wasn’t crying though. No this was more an eerie laugh. One sound both childish and demented.

Valius and Demetrius both shot a look to where they heard the crash into the bushes and the dark laughter from Scythe. Both of their expressions seemed to match as they thought of how random and bizarre Scythe was at the moment. Valius kept his sights in the direction of the bush, while Demetrius turned his eyes to Valius. If looks could kill...

"I'll take my training elsewhere then." Demetrius said before glancing at Cleo, no emotion surface on his face until he turned from her. Worry faintly displayed on the young man's face as he left the garden. He would head for the lake. It was much damper to seat himself, but he was fine if it was a tranquil location. I may not care for beauty... I may be cruel and selfish as well... But I don't dislike you. Perhaps I'd be as selfish and as cruel as possible to enjoy the beauty that I see in you. I wish you would see that in yourself as well. Demetrius dismissed these thoughts as quickly as he could.

"Scythe! What in Concordia are you doing? If you wish to train, simply ask Cleo to spar with you." Valius suggested. His eyes never looked toward Demetrius. He wanted to show the young man that he had won their battle of influence.

β€œWas that who I thought it was?” Cleo said in shock as her head also turned to look towards the bush where Scythe was sitting there after falling from the sky. She looked back at Demetrius and her father to gauge their reactions. Cleo watched the exchange between the two men. If she wasn’t mistaken, there was something else going on here, something she didn’t know about. However, she was too distracted by the destruction to her garden that she simply just glanced at Demetrius. β€œGood” Cleo said as he said that he was going to take his training elsewhere. As long as it wasn’t in her garden.

β€œHe’s right, if you wanted someone to kick your ass then you could have asked... not destroyed MY garden” Cleo said as she used her ability to force the pants to grow around him, pushing him up and off the plant before letting him fall to the ground. Cleo was furious and wanted the two guys gone. Things were perfect before they showed up.

Scythe sat there, kind of unable to get out of the bush at the moment. He could heal up later with a Potion probably. If he cared, he learned to not mind pain really. He looked on as they finished speaking and later turned his attention to him. Valius was first.”I jumped. It was fun and I knew I could make it.” He said as if he saw nothing wrong with the jump. He then looked at Cleo. Spar with her?

It seemed she had a few words as well. Her garden? What did it matter? Scythe waited for her to drop him out of the bush, until he spoke though. β€œKick my ass? What’s the big deal, they’re just stupid plants. Besides...” Scythe took out one of his knives and smiled. β€œIt’s not like I could get beat up by a girl anyway. So what would the point be in fighting with her?” He said as he blood rage swung at the bush she just fixed. It made quite a slash, as a chunk of it fell off. He just grinned and stared at her. β€œSee? Just. Stupid. Plants.”

He really was crazy... well in Cleo’s mind. Who would jump off a building? However, a she turned on her and her plans, Cleo’s mouth fell open. She might be a girl but she wasn’t weak, her father had made sure of that. Even Demetrius would have admitted that she wasn’t one to argue with because she could physically back up her words. It wasn’t until he lashed out at the plant that Cleo finally lost it.

β€œYou are dead” Were the only three words which left Cleo’s mouth. She felt such a strong connection to her garden. It bloomed and so did she, it was hurt and she felt it too. Without warning Cleo created three thick vines filled with thorns which wrapped around his legs and upper body. There were leaves floating up in the air, possessed by the level of magic which Cleo was giving off. The vines then began to try and twist his body, the clear aims of the vines around his legs being to break them.

Scythe stared at her with a demented smile as she said he was dead. In his mind, a girl couldn’t be a threat. She was just a girl, even if she was older than him. β€œNo I’m not. I am Death’s weapon.” It wasn’t as if anyone would believe that he was actually Death’s tool. More just like cocky talk from the child. However he was caught completely off guard as the thick vines wrapped around him. He couldn’t reach down to cut them as the one on his upper torso prohibited that. He couldn’t let his legs get broken though. However, he did feel something in his right leg pop. He didn’t think it was a break, maybe a fracture or sprain. Of course no matter what it was, walking would be a bitch now.

With a small yell of pain followed by that laugh once more he looked up at Cleo. β€œIf you wanted to play, then why didn’t you just ask?” He said as he stared at the vive around his upper torso first. Only one thing he could do now, to get it off. He bent his head down and began eating the vine until he finally made it through, enough for him to get his arm with the dagger free at least. He swung the blade a few times and with the help of blood rage he cut through the vines and fell to the ground once free.

Scythe looked up and laughed, blood pouring from his mouth thanks to the thorns that covered the vines. The cuts on his body were blending together. It was unclear what was caused by his ability, and what was caused by Cleo’s thorns. Scythe didn’t care though. The pain just caused adrenaline to amplify. He was beginning to enjoy this more and more, even though he’d likely be wrapped up again in a matter of moments. He only had one shot. He pulled his second knife and infused it with blood rage. He tossed the blade at Cleo. She could doge it sure, after all ranged combat wasn’t his thing so it wasn’t moving at an un-dodge-able pace. However infused with blood rage it could cut through steel if she chose to try and block it. He didn’t exactly have any other options though.

Cleo watched almost with amusement as Scythe began to eat through the vine. She could see that her vines were causing him pain and in her mind, he deserved it. Cleo tightened the grip the vines had on his legs, hoping to see them break just like he had broken a limb off of her bush. If she had really wanted to, Cleo could have had them regrow as he ate through it and had them regrow together as he cut them off but she decided it would be more fun to watch him look like he had a chance.

As he threw the knife at her, Cleo dodged it. She was so close to being hit, it had been close. Instead Cleo just shook her head. β€œYou really think you can win?” Cleo said, the leaves still floating around as she looked into his mind. Mentally she began to take control, telling his body to wrap his own hands around his neck and start to choke himself. β€œYou have no idea what I am capable” She said watching him.

Valius watched as the fight unfolded in the garden. He could have stopped it, and maybe even prevented it, but he enjoyed a good fight. From his fight with Scythe beforehand, he could tell the boy's magic was the cause of some of his bleeding. Valius wasn't alarmed, until he watched Scythe's hands grip his own neck.

"Cleo, just hold him there. Killing guests is not a good way to show hospitality." Valius chuckled as he looked at Scythe. "You shouldn't underestimate someone I have trained personally. My daughter may be a girl, something that I find difficult to get past, but she's very strong. Now, are you going to damage this garden again?" Valius asked.

Meanwhile, Demetrius was sitting in front of the lake, which was conveniently a good distant away from the garden. He favoured the garden more, because it would help him with control over his power. Perhaps he could sneak into the garden tonight. Now working on the strength of his ability, he concentrated on the lake that would freeze solid in a few minutes.

Scythe sat there as he saw his blade miss. He knew that would be his only real shot. However what came next was a surprise. His hands. His own hands. They weren’t in his control anymore. Well if there was one thing Modnar had taught him, it was to never give up. As his hands approached his own throat he tossed the dagger into his mouth. The last resistance he could give before she took over his arms completely.

He shook a bit as his own hands tightened around his throat. He wouldn’t go out like this. He leaned his head over his own arms and with a twist dug his blade through the muscles in his own arms. He found out that the potions could fix muscles while he was training, albeit it was a slower process, so he wasn’t all too worried. As his arms, that now lacked any strength at all, Scythe gasped to catch his breath, as his eyes began to tear. Resistant to pain as he was, that hurt much more then he thought it would.

He stared at the ground as they spoke. β€œDon’t underestimate my will to win either. I may be a child, but I will do everything in my power to survive. After all, now there are two people that I have to kill one day. I can’t damage the garden anymore right now, even if I wanted to. You win... Cleo.... Next time though.... Things will be different...” He was holding back the tears to stay strong. He didn’t cry since the day he killed his parents. He wouldn’t start now all because he was in pain.

Cleo frowned as her father told her to basically stop and not to kill him. She really didn’t like Scythe and would have been thrilled to see him dead... or at least for him to pass out unconscious. Maybe she was directing some of her anger for Demetrius onto Scythe but still, he had destroyed her plant. However, Cleo wasn’t going to go against her father and paused with the choking and even loosened it a little so he could manage to respond.

It hurt when her father spoke about her being a girl. This wasn’t new to Cleo. She knew that her father had wanted a son and that she was a disappointment since she was a young girl. However it still hurt hearing him say it since she had been trying so hard to make him proud of her.

β€œYou are right. Next time things will be different” Cleo said agreeing with him as she let go of her control over his hands. β€œMy father won’t be around to tell me to stop from killing you” She said before looking at her father. β€œI will be in my room” Cleo said before she began to walk back towards the house. As she did the leaves finally settled on the ground and the tree which Scythe had cut began to grow back.

******

For the next through weeks the whole house was on edge. The three young ones were not getting along at all and boundary lines were quickly drawn up. None of them liked each other and the fights which broke out both physically and verbally. There had been a single warning from Valius that seriously injuring one another was not on, and they all understood on some level that there would be serious consequences if they broke this rule. However it didn’t stop them from causing minor pain and suffering to each other.

Cleo had even brought about a new method of making Demetrius feel uncomfortable and unwanted since he was sharing her bedroom. This was not something Cleo liked but after the destruction which had occurred in Scythe’s room it had seemed best to put Demetrius in with Cleo. She had also hated the way that she now had to share her father’s attention and how it had been shifted onto the boys. Her father finally had the boys he had dreamed of, but Cleo knew that there were things that girls could do that boys couldn’t and this was part of her new plan.

It was getting late in the afternoon and Cleo was setting forth her new plan to annoy and tease Demetrius. Leaving the bathroom where she had been showering after doing some work in the garden Cleo headed for her bedroom. There was nothing odd about this, but there was something odd about what she was wearing. The beautiful Cleo was wearing some lacy red underwear and that was all, not bothering to cover up her body. She couldn’t wait to see Demetrius’ reaction to it as she walked into the bedroom she shared with him, knowing he was in there.

Demetrius had been sitting on his bed at the far corner of Cleo's room. He didn't take up much space, but he knew Cleo didn't enjoy him being in the room, let alone in the house. Demetrius had his head in a book that he had taken from Valius' private library. The book told a tale of the god, Orthniel. He was focused on his book until he heard Cleo enter. He instinctively glanced over at her, before his eyes shot back at the book. He couldn't believe what he just saw. Maybe she didn't notice him, is what he wanted to believe. He wasn't a loud person, so that could be plausible. Making sure his eyes didn't fool him, Demetrius took another quick glance. His eyes returned to the book as cleared his throat. This way, she had to know he was in the room. He really hoped that was the case.

As soon as she entered the room Cleo saw Demetrius sitting over on his bed. She didn’t look at him but she could feel his eyes on her. There was a confidence about her as she walked over to her side of the room and looked at herself in the floor length mirror which was next to where she kept her make-up. Cleo knew that she was pretty. Her body had curves in all the right places and was toned as well from the fitness that her father ensured she did every day.

At the sound of Demetrius clearing his thought, Cleo looked over at him. β€œIs something wrong?” She said, still making no move at all to cover up her body. Cleo could see that he was already uncomfortable with her standing here like this, so maybe her plan was working. She hoped that she would make him uncomfortable enough that he would leave her room and decide to sleep on a couch or something.

Demetrius thought Cleo would have shrieked or something before quickly covering up, but no. Cleo was just questioned him as she stood across the room. It was obvious that she was doing this on purpose, and he really didn't know how to fight back against this. He could attempt to talk her into her clothes, but he knew that had low chance of success.

"Don't you think you should cover up? Your father wouldn't like what you are doing in my presence." Demetrius said as his eyes remained on the book.

β€œOh... and are you going to go and tell him? How do you think he would react to you seeing me in my underwear? I don’t think he would be too happy about that” Cleo said with a smirk. β€œPlus he wouldn’t care what I am doing as long as I am not annoying him, and after all, this is my bedroom” She said running her fingers through her long dark hair. Cleo turned to look away from him as she picked up her foundation and began to apply some to the brush. She had seen that she had caught Demetrius off guard and was glad. Maybe with this she would clearly have the upper hand.

Demetrius narrowed his eyes as he heard Cleo speak. Just as he had assumed, his words didn't get to her. He could barely read knowing that she was in nothing in a lace bra and panties right across the room. Demetrius wasn't going to run to Valius, because his pride wouldn't allow him to do that. Instead, he would play into her game as well.

"Alright then." Demetrius said as closed his book and lay back on his bed. The temperature slowly dropped as he hummed a delightful tune.

Cleo’s eyes looked at him through the mirror as he packed up his book and lay back on the bed. She knew that he was up to something but it was a few moments before she realised what it was. The temperature in the room began to drop and she knew exactly what he was up to. He was trying to freeze her into covering herself up. β€œIt’s not going to work...” Cleo said to him as she continued to put her make-up on, switching from foundation to eye shadow. She was cold, but Cleo didn’t plan on giving in so easily.

Demetrius had continued to hum as the temperature lowered more and more. His hum stopped when she spoke. All he could was chuckle to himself before sitting up on the bed. He didn't say a word but just smirk as he approached her from behind and rubbed his chin as he looked at himself in the mirror. The closer he got to her, the more cold she felt. Getting this close to her wasn't the easiest thing in the world, but he knew if he could turn her fun into his own, he would gladly go for it.

"What's not going to work?" Demetrius asked.

Cleo watched him closely in the mirror as he got closer to her. She was a little anxious about him standing that close to her. It wasn’t because of the cold radiating from his body but also because she was half dressed and he was a guy. She was confident on the exterior but on the interior she was also just a young girl. β€œYou... trying to force me into putting more clothes on” Cleo said with a sigh. β€œI’m not going to” She said as she finished with her eyes and turned around to look at him. Her eyes looked into his for a moment before she smiled. β€œAny normal guy would love seeing a half naked girl; you on the other hand just want me to put more clothes on... Is it maybe because you aren’t into girls?” She teased as goose bumps appeared on her skin.

Demetrius thought he had won in their little game. At least until Cleo made her remark that questioned his sexuality. Getting angry and shouting at Cleo was a thing of the past though. Orthniel had bothered him countless times to show the boy how keeping his cool gave him a clear head, and keeping a clear head ensure victory over his opponents. In this case his opponent was Cleo. He suddenly let a clever smirk appear on his face.

"You assume too much Cleo. I never said I was trying to get your clothes on. I just figured if you got cold enough, you'd be in the mood to cuddle." Demetrius said as he dismissed the cold from the room and from his body as he looked her up and down. "If only I had the power to make it hot in here..." Demetrius said.

Cleo just rolled her eyes, although it had caught her off guard. She doubted that he was serious about it, although it did spark some questions in her mind. Questions which she quickly dismissed becoming defensive over the situation. β€œI would never... ever cuddle with you” Cleo said in a whisper. β€œSo you can keep dreaming because you are never getting anywhere near this” She said meaning her body. With one last cold look in his direction she moved to walk past him. On her bed there was a red satin dressing gown and she picked it up, slipping it around her shoulders.

Demetrius kept a smirk on his face until Cleo walked by him. His eyes followed her as she went to her bed to put on her gown. He let out a low sigh of relief; he didn't want Cleo to hear his sigh. Demetrius was walking toward his bed, but stopped as something seemed to surface. His relief had changed to annoyance.

"I don't understand how you hate me more than you do your father. He... He doesn't even love you." Demetrius said before getting into his own bed and lying down on his back. He wasn't ready to sleep, because he just had too much on his mind.

Cleo wrapped the gown tight around her before moving back to the mirror and picking up a hair brush, not finished yet. At Demetrius’ words though she froze, had he really said that? β€œHe does love me. You have been back for what, a few weeks? How would you know anything about my relationship with my father?” Cleo said turning to look back at him. Demetrius had always known how to upset her. All he had to do was to talk about her father. β€œAnd even if he doesn’t love me, it’s not like you do either”

Demetrius was getting tired of Cleo's arguing, which made him sit up and actually scowl at her backside. Her words not only hit him deep, but they stirred the thoughts in his mind about the Pendus household. He somehow found it hard to speak as he got ready to agree with her statement. Perhaps it was because yet again, she said something that was false.

"Of course I don't love you, but at least I don't pretend to. I don't use your naive mind and yearning to be accepted to get you to do and think what I want you to. He plays you like blindfolded pawn in a chess game." Demetrius retorted

While Demetrius and Cleo were arguing, Valius had just arrived back home from one of his ventures. He had been going all around Concordia for years, searching for allies and planning his conquest over the land he walked on. He wanted power over men, and then he wanted power beyond the gods. Valius had the tools, but he needed to be able to use them. He was headed to Scythe's room as he thought on this. He opened the door without warning.

β€œHow are you Scythe? Are you thinking of how you plan on killing her?" Valius asked with a grin.

Scythe was lying on his bed, as Valius walked in. He didn’t get up, hell he didn’t even move. When Valius spoke, Scythe just sighed. β€œHow to kill her? How else would I do it? Use Halikair or my knives to cut off her head. Or limbs or something. She’ll die, so will Demetrius. It’s just when, that really matters. Does it matter to you? After all I thought you said no hurting each other too badly.” Scythe so wanted to get out of that room. He was getting much of the strength in his arms back thanks to his potions, but he still had another week or so to really go. He picked up a potion and sat up, drinking it down. The he threw it against the wall, shattering it, as he looked at Valius. β€œIs there something you want or need?”

His words hurt and Cleo shook her head, not wanting to believe what he was saying. Deep down she knew that he had a point. Cleo knew that her father used her but she didn’t mind as long as she was able to prove to him that she loved him and have a chance at making him see that she was as good as any son could be. She was hopeful and while there was still hope Cleo was going to do anything her father wanted.

β€œIf you don’t love me, then shut up!” Cleo whispered to him but with a harsh tone. β€œMy relationship with my father is none of your business” She said obviously upset about what he had said. Cleo stripped off the gown, using her ability to force Demetrius’ eyes closed as she pulled on a pair of shorts and a tank top before letting him open them again. Without saying another word she walked out of the bedroom. Cleo wasn’t sure where she was going but she wasn’t going to sit around and continue this conversation.

Scythe just looked at Valius, blinking a few times as he spoke about him being a humorous child. He was about to say something, but Valius wasn’t finished yet, so he waited. May as well let the windbag finish first. The idea. It both confused and intrigued him. β€œI kill who I want to kill. Why should it be any different for age? Older people can be just as weak as children, plus I’m special. Halikair says so."

He thought a few more moments about Valius’ idea. It was interesting. β€œI’ll pass. I want to be stronger, but I won’t be your slave. Besides, a group of the most strong isn’t any fun. Not unless I get to kill them. It seems pretty useless to me just to get strong people together, just so we know we’re strong.” Scythe didn’t get what Valius was getting at clearly, but he was also still young. His strength and blood lust was that of someone double his age at least, however off the battlefield he just wasn’t there mentally yet.

Demetrius ignored Cleo's words and followed her into the garden. He didn't want to do this, and he was truly angry at the fact that Valius didn't even need to have a say in order to defeat him when it came to Cleo. A smug smirk appeared on his face as he approached the garden. "I can't believe that worked. Talking about your father not loving you still makes you run away and tear up like a five year old. You should be glad that I'm not in Valius' shoes, because if I was, you'd be one of the maids." Demetrius insulted before walking back toward the house. His eyes shut for a few seconds as tried to forget the words he had just said to the already hurt Cleo.

In Scythe's room, Valius just nodded as he listened to Scythe speak. "Halikair is a knowing god indeed. He must be your respective god." Valius found Scythe's words about his idea a little humorous; due to the way the boy spoke of it. "I'm gathering the strongest, in order to do something that has been said to be impossible... No army or group has ever done what I'm planning and succeeded."

Cleo was annoyed that he didn’t stop following her as she headed outside towards the garden. She needed to get to the garden, everything was better out there. β€œGo to hell Demetrius!” Cleo called out to him, not turning around but hearing him turning and walking back towards the house. Tears were streaming down her face. She didn’t want to cry but she couldn’t help it. What he had said really hurt. Cleo reached the garden, walking inside and sinking down onto the grass, her knees basically giving out on her as she began to sob.

All she had ever wanted was for her father to love her. While Demetrius had been away, Cleo had managed to delude herself into thinking that her father loved her. It was like she had created her own little fantasy land in her head. Yet Demetrius had seen right through it and had brought all of these feelings back. Cleo couldn’t hold back the tears as she just cried, letting it all out.

Scythe shrugged at his words. A knowing God. β€œHalikair is an ass hole. He thinks he can use me because I like to kill. He thinks I’m his weapon. He’s wrong. I wonder, if it’s possible to kill Death himself....” Scythe stared for a moment and then looked back at Valius. β€œSo you want me to be a slave in your army to go do something boring just because people say a normal army can’t? I’ll still pass. That doesn’t sound fun.” Scythe liked a challenge, so unless he knew he’d get stronger, get to kill things, and really be challenged, he wasn’t even near interested.

Valius raised an eyebrow at Scythe. He didn't enjoy having to explain the league for a third time, but he had to make Scythe understand what he was saying. "This group I am assembling has the main goal of taking the throne from the Wolfsbanes, the current rulers of Concordia. They boast how the royal bloodline breed the strongest warriors Concordia. They say their army is bested by none. Think of twelve men massacring an entire army. Don't you see? I'm not trying to make you a slave. I'm building you up with your potential. With enough strength, you wouldn't have to answer to anyone... even Halikair...”

Meanwhile, Demetrius walked away and headed to Scythe's room, knowing Valius would be there. He walked in at the end of Valius' words. Valius looked up as Demetrius entered. "What do you want? I was just informing Scythe of the league." Valius said as Demetrius seemed to give him a cold look.

"Is he even strong enough? Never mind, I forget that his age doesn't fit his fighting capability." Demetrius commented. "I just wanted to speak with you about my leave." Demetrius added.

"It will be addressed. Just allow me to finish speaking to the boy." Valius replied. Demetrius just nodded and walked back into Cleo's room. With a sigh, he got into bed, lying on his back as he did before.

Scythe stared as he laid out everything that he wanted to do. He didn’t care about the world. He thought it nothing but a rat hole that was ready to be slaughtered. However the Wolfsbane. Royal blood, ready to be spilt. Not to mention their army. It was a Chance Scythe wouldn’t get on his own. Before he could say anything though, Demetrius walked in. He still hated Demetrius and wanted to kill him. Simple as that. However there was no question that he wanted to get stronger. If Valius could really promise that, as well as a challenge like taking the throne Scythe was in. Besides that would leave an army of 11 others left. 11 Others just ripe for a slaughter.

β€œI’m plenty strong. You’ll see that when I kill you one day. I’ll join your league, but I want to start training very soon. Even if my arms aren’t at full strength, I want to start training. Oh and one more thing. When I’m strong enough, I will come after you Valius. Demetrius, then Cleo, then you, and finally Halikair. You’ll all die, by the demon you raised.” Scythe wasn’t acting cocky or anything. No in fact his voice was steady, almost unnervingly. He very much believed that one day; they would all die by his own hands.

Valius stood up after Scythe finally thought positively about his future in the league. Valius would easily give the boy what he wanted as long as it helps himself in the long run. He didn't see what he was doing as using people, but thought it was actually a "you scratch my back and I'll scratch yours" concept.

"Look forward to training within the next few days." Valius said to Scythe with a deathly serious face before leaving the room. Valius walked down the empty hall of his home before entering Cleo's room where he spotted Demetrius resting.

"So, inform me of my leave." Demetrius said as he sat up. Valius' mood of laughter with Scythe had left him as he spoke to his other apprentice. He didn't even know if he could call the young man that. When they had sparred, Valius saw movements that were unfamiliar to him.

"As you know, you will be leaving almost a year from now. I will not only train you in combat and magic, but I will also teach the art of war within this year. By the time you make your leave, you'll know all you'll need to know about the world we live in and even beyond that. I am also giving you a test. I have considered several men to joining the League of Twelve, but I need you to filter them a bit."

"Filter?"

"I want you to witness their power, whether you stage a challenge for them, or fight them yourself. You might think your progression will be halted, but I am giving you the opportunity to grow in a different way. You will experience challenges and wonders that you would never take part in if you stayed here. The young man I see now isn't ready for the league just yet. However, the man I shall see you as after you've returned will be more than I wished for." Valius said as Demetrius listened carefully. A minute ago he had despised the man, but now he was somehow looking up to him. All Demetrius could do was nod. "Be ready tomorrow morning. I will show you what you must study and your regiment. Now, goodnight, and pray that my daughter doesn't kill you in your sleep." Valius said before leaving the room.

***********

Concordia. The Invasion was quick and pretty painless for the League. A swift and fatal blow dealt to the Royal family and their kingdom. The remaining Princes captured, as well as the Princess. Their memories were being erased at this point, as well as new roles being assigned. The second group for assignment was Demetrius, Cleo, and Scythe. It wasn’t like it was a surprise. They grew up together for the past few years; it was poetic that their old lives would be ended as a group as well.

Scythe however was running a bit late that day. Goodbye to the life he knew. That’s what he was saying, as he stood on top of the roof of the old mansion. It was nostalgic. The memories. He was such a child back then. He overlooked the garden he took the dive into when he first arrived. He smirked at the memories. Cleo tried to kill him back then. Oh God if it were today, she’d be dead in moments. He was just young back then.

It was time to go though. He smirked and took a potion in his hand. β€œJust. Stupid. Plants.” He said as he through the blood raged potion into the heart of the garden. In mere moments the whole thing was ablaze. He smiled and jumped down, not aiming for the bush, but for the ground. He landed on both feet. A jump that would have killed him back then, was nothing now. Tossing another potion inside the mansion as he got on his horse, he rode back towards the new castle with a grin on his face.

It wasn’t all that long before he got back to the castle, although he was pretty late comparatively. As he entered the throne room, he smiled at everyone, his normal evil smile. β€œSorry I’m late. Just had some business to take care of. Did I miss anything?” In the distance the smoke could be seen for miles. However, unless looking out the balcony, it couldn’t easily be seen.

Valius had a look of victory in his face as he paced the throne room. Cleo and Demetrius had arrived on time, and Scythe had been the only one he had been waiting on. It took a while, but Scythe arrived, making their meeting go underway.

"Finally. What took you so long?" Demetrius asked coldly. Valius stopped his pacing and stood before the three with a smile on his face.

"Now, this is a pleasant sight. The warriors I have bred now stand in front of me after achieving the greatest victory in Concordian history. I bet you're wondering why you were called here."

Cleo was watching her father as he paced the room, keeping her eyes off Demetrius who was standing not that far away from her in the throne room. She was proud of her father and was finally understanding what he had been aiming to do all of these years. Her part in the plan was simple. She had been brought in afterwards to use her mind control in keeping people calm and convincing them not to continue fighting. There was no point in running a kingdom when everyone was dead.

As Scythe finally showed up, Cleo rolled her eyes before turning her attention back to her father. Cleo was exhausted. Her ability had drained her since she had been using it on such a large scale. β€œYes father” Cleo said. She had long since stopped calling him Daddy, yet still called him father. It was something she could hold over everyone else. She was the only child to Valius, the man who was in control of all of Concordia.

Scythe grinned as Demetrius asked him what took him so long. β€œJust saying goodbye to some old memories. Nothing you need to worry yourself about.” Scythe replied with a bit of sting in his words. As Valius then spoke, Scythe waited for him to finish. Did he wonder why they were there? A bit he supposed. It was more like a hope that it was a one last spar to see who was the strongest. No a fight to the death. Yeah now that was more his game.

β€œUnless it has something to do with more fighting, not particularly.” He did wonder if maybe Valius was giving them the mansion. That would be my luck now, wouldn’t it? He then thought a moment more. Who was he kidding? He would have burned it down anyway. He didn’t want that place filled with memories of when he was weak. β€œWell I don’t have all day old man, so if you could make it quick I’d appreciate it.”

Valius chuckled at Scythe. "I've brought you three here to let you know what responsibilities I have entrusted onto you after the war." Valius began walked toward Cleo first out of the three. "Cleo, you have been given the duty of guarding the eldest son of the Wolfsbane family, Markell. You will be sent to Earth with him, and make sure the memories we plant into him remain true. Due to your age, I would recommend you acting as his wife." Valius said as he looked upon his daughter.

"I'm assuming the actual league members get better jobs than that." Demetrius commented.

"Are you in a joking mood today Demetrius? Jarev has a similar job." Valius replied.

"In all honesty, I wouldn't compare Jarev to myself. Scythe and I had showed great prowess during the overthrow. I won't interrupt any longer though."

"Hmm... Demetrius, your duty is to rule over northern Concordia. You will be in charge of maintaining peace in that area, and crushing resistances if needed." Demetrius nodded at Valius' words.

"An honour." Demetrius said as he kneeled. Valius then made his way to Scythe. He couldn't help but laugh.

"Now for my jester of the league.... You are free to do what you like. All I ask of you is to keep to our side. You'll always be able to fight resistances." Valius said with a smile.

Cleo was quiet until her father came to stand in front of her. She was a little anxious to find out what her job would be now that the whole kingdom was under her father’s control. She was quiet as her father told her she was to go to earth. He was sending her away? After everything she had done to try and win his love and affection he had pulled away from her and was sending her to be a simple minder. She would have to look after some stuck up Prince for the rest of her life and to keep him from knowing about the place she loved?

She shook her head a little, trying to come to terms with it as he told the others what they were to do. Scythe was given the freedom he wanted and Demetrius was given control over the whole of the North, the power that he had wanted. Yet she was being sent away! β€œWhy? Why am I being sent to do it?” Cleo said as her eyes tried to seek out her fathers.

Scythe listened to his job. Well if you could even call it that. He was to do whatever he wanted, except for the thing he wanted most? What the hell? Valius always knew where to hurt him the most, intentional or not. In fact if he knew he could beat Valius, he would have attacked them all right there. Right now though, he knew it just wasn’t possible. He wasn’t able to beat Valius yet, but one day he would watch the man die, and smile as he did so.

β€œOh shut up Cleo, at least you have a job. You get to get out of this rat hole and get to go start a new life were no one can harm your stupid plants. So be happy. Why the fuck do I get this kind of job though? I mean I’m to do nothing? How many resistances can we possibly have? And to make it worse I’d have to work under him for it?” He said motioning to Demetrius. To say he wasn’t happy was an understatement. Livid was more like it. Livid at the fact that what he was planning on doing since he first joined the league, was now ruined. Valius would pay for this. They all would.

Valius raised a brow as he first heard Cleo, and then heard Scythe's response. He had tried to assign the duties he had in place accordingly, so he would address Cleo and Scythe's complaints. Valius turned his attention to Cleo first

"Cleo, don't you understand. I need someone I can trust to guard this brother. I know it's a sacrifice, and it hurts me deeply to go so long without seeing my daughter, but this is something that must happen. Your power to persuade others will make your duty nearly infallible." Valius said before turning his eyes to Scythe. "What more could you want? You are free. And I wouldn't allow any league member to have power over another. That's just absurd. I don't see why you can't train and kill me when you're strong enough. Isn't that what you want... to kill the most powerful?"

Cleo ignored Scythe. She had always been pretty good at ignoring him and his banter. Demetrius on the other hand, well if he had spoken up at this point in time it would have been a very different matter. One which probably would have resulted in someone getting hurt. She wasn’t looking forward to going to earth. She would have to be normal and Cleo had never been good at being normal. She also would miss her father and really didn’t want to be away from him, not for the time period which he was talking about.

However her face softened as he spoke about trusting her and missing her. Those were the words which Cleo had sought after. It wasn’t that he was sending her away, he was entrusting to her a job of great importance because he knew that he could trust her. Cleo smiled at him. β€œI understand now. Thank you. I promise I won’t let you down” She said in a confident voice. Her father was right. With her ability, who could stand up to her? Surely not some Prince who was having his memories wiped.

Scythe listened to Valius talk. It was like listening to a pile of shit, because bull shit was all that was spewing from his mouth. Finally Scythe just ended up laughing. β€œYou, the strongest? Don’t make me laugh old man in thinking that you’re the strongest. You’re the leader because it’s a shitty job. Have Concordia, have the Earth, take it all. I want Halikair’s head you pompous, self centred jackass. I will obtain a strength the God’s will Envy. Then everything will burn. You’ll see. You want me to get stronger; well you’ve raised a demon now. One you can’t put down. I will watch you die. Be sure of it. Until that day, enjoy this shitty kingdom.”

That was when he turned to face Cleo. β€œDon’t tell me your buying that shit? Really now? I mean come on. I didn’t even think you were that stupid. Why do you think there are no women allowed in the league? He’s ashamed of you, he doesn’t Love you. He won’t miss is darling little baby. If you actually believe him, well your more pathetic then you’re stupid plants. Have fun whoring yourself out to your new hubby. Don’t worry though, it won’t be forever. One day you’ll die too.” Scythe was pretty much ready to leave. This was a bunch of shit and if he was to get stronger, well now he had the time to.

Valius grinned as Cleo excepted her duty thanks to his swaying words. His attention then pulled to Scythe. The man's words made him furrow his eyebrows. He never liked the mouth on the boy, thought it did make him laugh every now and then. His face then went neutral as he realized how much closer he was to accomplishing his goal.

"You may take leave from the castle now, Scythe. I must inform Demetrius and Cleo of what they'll actually be doing. Good day Scythe." Valius said. His eyes then met Demetrius'. "What do you have to say to Cleo?" Valius asked. The question would seem to be pulled out of nowhere to all but Demetrius whose eyes widened as he heard the question. He looked at Cleo from the corner of his eye.

"I don't have to say anything to her. I never have, and never will after she departs to Earth." Demetrius said making Valius snicker.

"Good."

Cleo’s smile vanished from her face at Scythe’s words. He had never spoken to her like that. Normally it was something that Demetrius would say to her, she expected it from him. Yet Scythe had never said things like that to her and it caught her off guard. The shock on her face was evident. Was Scythe right? Was he really ashamed of her? Her eyes watered a little but she held back the tears. Cleo didn’t know what the truth was but she did know that she would do what her father asked her to do. β€œAnd that is why he is giving me a job, trusting me with one, and simply sending you away” Cleo said to Scythe as he was asked to leave.

As her father asked Demetrius what he had to say to her. Cleo turned to look at him, curious. Yet the hurt expression remained on her face when he spoke about not having anything to say to her. Her feelings towards him had become complicated over the past few years. There were times when she could have sworn that he cared about her, yet he said things like that and it made any doubt of that vanish. β€œI wouldn’t want to hear what you had to say anyway” Cleo said, trying to keep herself together.

Scythe stared at Valius. He wanted to rip his head off right now. It wasn’t the right time though. The he was asked to leave. He wondered what exactly the old windbag would do if he refused. Would he actually break a nail to try and remove Scythe himself? It’s not like the piece of shit guards outside could stop him. Demetrius and Cleo were there. Although he wouldn’t have minded killing them either. Then again, he didn’t want to stay there either. What a weird situation.

When Cleo finally spoke up though Scythe just smiled. β€œA job? He’s sending you away too honey.” He said with a condescending attitude. β€œKeep your friends close, keep your enemies closer. He doesn’t consider you either one it seems.” Scythe laughed and walked closer to both Cleo and Demetrius.

β€œEnjoy your little life of delusion. Daddy doesn’t love you, and I hope I can be there to see the pained expression on your face when that realization hits you.” He said almost in Cleo’s face now. He then backed up and looked at Demetrius. β€œDon’t get too cosy in your new castle or job. You’ll be the first to die. I think I’ll shrink your head to carry around as trinket. That sounds good.” Scythe walked over to the door and looked at them all expecting a final response before he departed.

As Scythe turned around to look at the three one final time, Valius let a smile show on his face. He wondered when he would reveal the young man's heritage. Demetrius glared at Scythe though. They had never really gotten into many verbal arguments, mostly because Demetrius just let Scythe talk.

"I'll be waiting." Is all Demetrius said to Scythe before turning to Valius.

"Is that all? After he threatened your life?" Valius said, almost trying to instigate something on Demetrius' side. Demetrius stared at Valius coldly from his frail attempt.

"You must understand that dog normally bark or howl up at the shining full moon... If the moon were to bark back, only the dog would receive attention."

"Hmm...Hahahahaha!" Valius let laughter escape him, but regained his composure quickly. "You should use a metaphor to describe me one day. I feel left out when you use them on Scythe and Cleo... Anyway, we shall begin our next step in keeping the world in the palms of the league's hands."

Scythe stared at Cleo. She wasn’t saying anything. She often tried to ignore what he said. It was true though. Albeit he wasn’t trying to help, rather hurt her, but it was still the truth. When Demetrius and Valius decided to speak Scythe could only find himself laughing at the end. β€œOh, you brought a tear to my eye with that one. Really you did. I haven’t laughed so hard in a long time. The strongest, the moon, god your both so conceited it’s amazing that your egos fit in the same planet as each other, let alone the same room.”

That’s when it was time for his last personal attacks. After all this was the last time they would all be together for a very long time, if not forever. "Demetrius, you’re a hopeless, loveless prick, who will die cold and alone, your own blood being the only warmth left as is seeps out of your body.”

He then turned to Cleo. β€œYou’re no better than freezer burn over there. Enjoy life on Earth, cut off from everyone. Await the day I visit. You’ll die and so will that Prince of yours. This way at least you can still whore it up after death.” He said with a smirk.

Lastly was Valius. β€œLast but not least, old man. You’re the worst of all. You ruin the lives of everyone, just to get what you want. It works though, doesn’t it? You’ll find everything around you slowly crumble away. You’ll watch it burn, and only when you realize that you’ve lost it all, will it be over for you. I will stand there with a smile as I watch your blood cover the ground.”

Scythe removed the weapon from his back and smiled. β€œUntil then, you can all fuck off.” He turned around and walked outside of the throne room. He swung his weapon around, killing the two guards and collapsing part of the doorway in as he left. His dark and eerie laugh filling up the halls of the castle.

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View All » Add Character » 24 Characters to follow in this universe

Character Portrait: Saige Marie McKinley
Character Portrait: Drake Deonte
Character Portrait: Arctaurus
Character Portrait: Markell
Character Portrait: Cleopatra Pendus
Character Portrait: Sorcha
Character Portrait: Scythe
Character Portrait: Masaharu Motoshima
Character Portrait: Nazar
Character Portrait: Keegan
Character Portrait: Reicha Sharite
Character Portrait: Kiel Tornath
Character Portrait: Shien
Character Portrait: Black Lotus
Character Portrait: Jason Straw
Character Portrait: Morganna
Character Portrait: Vann
Character Portrait: Aldrich Varanlaeh

Newest

Character Portrait: Vann
Vann

Rejected from the Heavens, Now the World is My Playground

Character Portrait: Morganna
Morganna

Mistress of Blood

Character Portrait: Jason Straw
Jason Straw

Life is Pain. Can I be saved from it?

Character Portrait: Black Lotus
Black Lotus

Sorceress of the League of Twelve

Character Portrait: Shien
Shien

Fighting is too much effort. Why does "Peace" bring so much violence?

Character Portrait: Kiel Tornath
Kiel Tornath

One of the League of Twelve.

Character Portrait: Reicha Sharite
Reicha Sharite

A bounty hunter famed for craving excitement and adventure, who's morals are somewhat skewed.

Character Portrait: Keegan
Keegan

The Second Brother.

Character Portrait: Nazar
Nazar

Born of the original chaos and steeped in death. Will he rule all or devour it?

Trending

Character Portrait: Black Lotus
Black Lotus

Sorceress of the League of Twelve

Character Portrait: Keegan
Keegan

The Second Brother.

Character Portrait: Reicha Sharite
Reicha Sharite

A bounty hunter famed for craving excitement and adventure, who's morals are somewhat skewed.

Character Portrait: Saige Marie McKinley
Saige Marie McKinley

Saige is a girl of many talents with a knack for making friends and defending others.

Character Portrait: Shien
Shien

Fighting is too much effort. Why does "Peace" bring so much violence?

Character Portrait: Kiel Tornath
Kiel Tornath

One of the League of Twelve.

Character Portrait: Masaharu Motoshima
Masaharu Motoshima

Masaharu is a free-lancer who takes up odd jobs. His favorite hobby is designing weapons, particularly swords, and trains in the art of swordsmanship. He is very kind-hearted and will do anything to defend himself or others if need be.

Character Portrait: Nazar
Nazar

Born of the original chaos and steeped in death. Will he rule all or devour it?

Character Portrait: Arctaurus
Arctaurus

Once a bastion of justice, now this angel has committed a horrid sin and now is Fallen. He has a fraction of his power remaining, just enough to finish a quest, to redeem himself in the eyes of the gods.

Most Followed

Character Portrait: Sorcha
Sorcha

PeaceBringer

Character Portrait: Keegan
Keegan

The Second Brother.

Character Portrait: Black Lotus
Black Lotus

Sorceress of the League of Twelve

Character Portrait: Shien
Shien

Fighting is too much effort. Why does "Peace" bring so much violence?

Character Portrait: Drake Deonte
Drake Deonte

Is a Sa'larin. He has a dragon tail that he usually keeps around his waist and out of the way. He has several jobs, one of which is as a tattoo artist for the humans and humanoids that required his service.

Character Portrait: Masaharu Motoshima
Masaharu Motoshima

Masaharu is a free-lancer who takes up odd jobs. His favorite hobby is designing weapons, particularly swords, and trains in the art of swordsmanship. He is very kind-hearted and will do anything to defend himself or others if need be.

Character Portrait: Nazar
Nazar

Born of the original chaos and steeped in death. Will he rule all or devour it?

Character Portrait: Vann
Vann

Rejected from the Heavens, Now the World is My Playground

Character Portrait: Scythe
Scythe

The Universe will burn, The Flames set by my hands


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Chronicles of Concordia

Chronicles of Concordia by RolePlayGateway

Biographies, short stories, backgrounds, and other stuff...

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