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Skandar, Prince of Ashkara

"Beware the man who would kill a god, for he will never know peace. And he will drag the whole universe into war to keep him merry company along the way."

0 · 1,048 views · located in The Republic of Khalidor

a character in “Crowns, Empires, Blood and Swords”, as played by Tumbleweed

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ā–ā–ŒSkandar, Prince of Ashkaraā–ā–Œ

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Q U O T E

"Their throats are open graves;
Their tongues practice deceit.
The poison of vipers is on their lips."

ā€”Romans 3:13


T H E M E S

Trying To Save Her || Johan Sƶderqvist

At the Gates of Babylon || Antti Martikainen


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ā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆ

ā›__I___A M___W H O___I___A M__āœ
ā–„ā–„ā–„ā–„ā–„ā–„ā–„ā–„ā–„ā–„ā–„ā–„ā–„ā–„ā–„ā–„ā–„ā–„ā–„ā–„ā–„ā–„ā–„ā–„ā–„ā–„ā–„ā–„ā–„ā–„ā–„ā–„ā–„ā–„ā–„ā–„ā–„ā–„ā–„ā–„ā–„ā–„ā–„ā–„ā–„ā–„ā–„ā–„ā–„ā–„ā–„ā–„ā–„ā–„ā–„ā–„ā–„ā–„ā–„ā–„ā–„ā–„ā–„ā–„ā–„ā–„ā–„ā–„ā–„ā–„ā–„

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Name: Skandar Aruun Naganezhad Shahzad
Title/or Moniker: Prince of Ashkara, Prince-Ithnaan || the Second Prince, the Bloodborn, the Nāgazad || the Serpent Prince, the Young Viper, Skandar of the Nāga || Serpentkind
Gender: Male
Age: Fifty-Three
Species: Like all Ashkarazi, Skandar is of mixed origins, with human, Djinn, and Nāga blood among the countless others flowing through his veins.
Class/Occupation: Prince of Ashkara
Description: Skandar is a dusky youth of six feet and five inches. He's built lithe, with the whipcord hard body of a fighter; his strength clear in the broad stretch of his shoulders and firmness of his stance. Though he favors his father's colouring, his features more closely resemble his mother's; sporting a narrow nose and shadowed eyes, with an inborn sharpness to his gaze and ruin smouldering in his coal dark eyes.

Dark hair falls in undulating waves down his shoulders, the ebony locks usually tied at the nape, or tamed with a clasp at the back of his head. Scars decorate the otherwise smooth expanse of his sun-darkened skin, some long and thin, others raised and jagged, vicious lines cutting across his skin as a testament to his combat-honed expertise. Past thin lips sits a forked tongue, parted at half an inch, which affords a more snake-like air to Ashkara's famed Serpent Prince.

While he appears to be in his early twenties, Skandar is actually far olderā€”nearly twice that, to be exact. Like most Ashkarazi, his mixed heritage means he ages at a slower rate than regular humans. Although not nearly immortal, he can be expected to live up to the hundreds.


ā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆ

ā›__W H A T___I S___H I D D E N___W I T H I N__āœ
ā–„ā–„ā–„ā–„ā–„ā–„ā–„ā–„ā–„ā–„ā–„ā–„ā–„ā–„ā–„ā–„ā–„ā–„ā–„ā–„ā–„ā–„ā–„ā–„ā–„ā–„ā–„ā–„ā–„ā–„ā–„ā–„ā–„ā–„ā–„ā–„ā–„ā–„ā–„ā–„ā–„ā–„ā–„ā–„ā–„ā–„ā–„ā–„ā–„ā–„ā–„ā–„ā–„ā–„ā–„ā–„ā–„ā–„ā–„ā–„ā–„ā–„ā–„ā–„ā–„ā–„ā–„ā–„ā–„ā–„ā–„

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Strengths:
  • Inhuman reflexes
  • Powerful sense of smell
  • Immune to most toxins (especially snake venom)
  • Fairly resistant to heat/fire
  • Extensive knowledge on poisons
  • Well-versed in war tactics/combat
  • Varied degrees of control over reptiles

Weaknesses:
  • Easily succumbs to anger
  • Susceptible to charms/musical forms of magic
  • Sluggish in the cold
  • Sensitive to changes in temperature
Likes:
  • Sweet Mehridizi summer wine
  • Unusual/foreign weaponry (whips, maces, flails, etc.)
  • Poisons
  • The dry desert climate
  • Sparring/hand-to-hand combat
  • Spicy food
  • Indulging in carnal activities
  • The thrill of battle

Dislikes:
  • The intricacies of foreign politics
  • His half-siblings
  • Deferring to others
  • Restriction
  • Arctic climates
  • Diplomacy
  • Those with no patience for intellectual pursuits

Quirks and Habits: Albeit unconsciously, Skandar has been known to flash his tongue when incensedā€”an act closely reminiscent of a serpent's hiss, and he takes to carrying around a snake or two, as well; coiled around an arm or a leg, sometimes even tangled around his hair. He doesn't blink very often, which can be quite unnerving to those who notice it, and he can also stay unmoving at a single position for extended periods of time.


ā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆā–ˆ

ā›__H O W___I___C A M E___T O__B E__āœ
ā–„ā–„ā–„ā–„ā–„ā–„ā–„ā–„ā–„ā–„ā–„ā–„ā–„ā–„ā–„ā–„ā–„ā–„ā–„ā–„ā–„ā–„ā–„ā–„ā–„ā–„ā–„ā–„ā–„ā–„ā–„ā–„ā–„ā–„ā–„ā–„ā–„ā–„ā–„ā–„ā–„ā–„ā–„ā–„ā–„ā–„ā–„ā–„ā–„ā–„ā–„ā–„ā–„ā–„ā–„ā–„ā–„ā–„ā–„ā–„ā–„ā–„ā–„ā–„ā–„ā–„ā–„ā–„ā–„ā–„ā–„

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Land/Kingdom: The Kingdom of Ashkara
History: He was born of blood. From the cold stone floor smeared with red gushing bright from his grandfather's corpse, the crimson staining his mother's mouth, her thighs, painting his father's cock in rhythms; to the blood of the wombā€”him, thrust into being, scarlet and sticky and small, his face crumpled in a wail that drew vipers from their pitsā€”both child and serpentkind rousing the still Kashmir air with the clamor of their cries.

Skandar, the voices hissed, the defender, he who would raise his mother's people from the ruins of his father's fist. And Skandar he was namedā€”son of Jahangir IV and Shahmara (daughter of the late Nāgakhan, former princess of the Serpentkind, now Sultana-Ithnaan of Ashkara by virtue of having borne a son)ā€”Prince-Ithnaan of Ashkara.

ā€”ā€”ā€”"My father killed the Serpent King, raped the old man's daughter, and put a prince in her belly. Then he made her his queen."

In whispers, they called him Nāgazad, the Serpent Prince. Never out loud, yet the moniker was there, stark amid furtive glances cast upon the vipers coiled around his limbs, his waist, sitting heavy upon his brow like a King's crown. Young though he was, even he knew that they were terrified of him. Here was a boy with vipers that could fell a man grown with a single strike wrapped around his body the way women adorned themselves with jewelry.

Everywhere he walked, snakes followed in his wake. Educated, eloquent in the language of politics, with warfare as his mother tongue and blood scorched by the heat of combat flowing through his veins. Should he desire to be Sultan, there shouldn't have been a problemā€”except for one. It's name? Akhil, Prince-Wahid, the first born, Crown Prince of Ashkara, and wielder of sunfire. He was Djinn; he had no reason to fear snakes.

The first time Skandar tried to kill him, he was twelve, barely a man yet brimmed with enough determination to spur him to assassinate his own half-brother. It was a pitiful attempt, Akhil laughing it off with a wave of heat burning Skandar's snakes to ashes at his feet. The second mirrored the first, as had the third, and the fourth, until the last of his vipers' cindered remains were swept away to the desert sand and the serpent deferredā€”albeit grudginglyā€”to the sun.

So Skandar turned to the rest of his father's vast brood. His sisters he left untouched, but three other boys followed after himā€”their mothers made Queen just like his and Akhil's before himā€”two close to his own age, and an infant. If their ambitions turned out similar to his, then, he thought, they might attempt to dispose of him as well. It was then that he decided he did not want to be a mere stepping stone to any future throne-mongering and sought to kill the little princes before they could get it into their heads to try and do the same to him. The youngest, Skandar smothered in his own cot, making the infant's sudden death appear as an accident. However, after seeing his father unmoved at his newborn son's demise, Skandar merely stabbed the elder with his own dagger, and offed the younger in what was meant to be a simple sparring session.

The rest of the little princes that followed suffered similar fates, until Skandar grew tired and resorted to killing them in their mother's bellies to spare him another nine-month wait. The only other boy to evade his kiss was the son his father had with the princess of a neighbouring Kingdomā€”the soon-to-be Prince-Thalatha spared as per his father's instructions and unwillingness to spark a war. Fortunately, Skandar found that he had nothing to be troubled about as the boyā€”named Kiranā€”felt as strongly about the Sultanate as a cat does a bucket of water.

Though he still harbours animosity over his eldest brother, Skandar has long since accepted his position as the secondborn; having grown out of his childhood ambitions, and settling comfortably into his role as Lord Commander of the Soltera-based Ashkarazi infantry.
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So begins...

Skandar, Prince of Ashkara's Story

Setting

Characters Present

Character Portrait: Dorian Ursuul Character Portrait: Kiran, Prince of Ashkara Character Portrait: Xiao Jingshen Ananse Character Portrait: Arim Funar Character Portrait: Zexen Tiberius Elen Character Portrait: Moloch Markus
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#, as written by zeph_gm
Nemu weathered the Fae Queens scathing threats but otherwise said nothing, only silently accepting the proffered wine from Lord Dorian with a respectful bow of her head.
The arranged lords pattered out greetings and titles, then moved on to arguing over the merits of trade, wartime events and contracts. The subjects of which held little interest for Nemu or her master. Should there be war, Her master would side with those who paid his fee, and slaughter those who opposed him, he had little need for wartime treatise and approved battlefield conduct. Although she agreed with King Arkaelus' statements of the replaceable nature of kings and soldiers. All life was replaceable. It was one of the few resources that self propagated at such a rate that culling was frequently necessary. They were also one of the more interesting and useful resources around. Some late arrival Queen dismissed the kings comments sharply, applying an unrealistic value to the lives of men. Another Queen, one whom quite disconcertingly Nemu had not noticed arrive, also criticized the Kings proposals, though she offered no counter solution. Nemu was swiftly growing tired of the pointlessness of these nobels and their incessant babbling.
"And pray tell, good lady, who would be this third party? You? My master? The Fae? Arkaelus himself? How can you be sure of any of these parties allegiance. Wars are only half won on the battlefield, intrigue is as necessary as armies." She turned to the Queen Berlin, who has seemingly resolved to refuse to look upon Nemu's form.
"And you, Lady Berlin, you place the lives of mere men above structures and establishments, as if they had some inherent worth. There is not a single resource on the plant more bountiful than the human form, or more malleable. And pray tell, when you expend your cities, your lands and your resources in the act of protecting you precious human lives, what will be left for them to return to? Will they survive? With no food, no shelter, no protection from the armies that ravish your lands?"
She sat in one of the plush chairs around the table, and took a contemptuous sip of her wine.
"If you expend your lands in defence of your people, both will perish. If you expend your people to protect your lands, well..." She took another sip, "Castles cannot reproduce."

Setting

Characters Present

Character Portrait: Dorian Ursuul Character Portrait: Kiran, Prince of Ashkara Character Portrait: Xiao Jingshen Ananse Character Portrait: Arim Funar Character Portrait: Zexen Tiberius Elen Character Portrait: Moloch Markus
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#, as written by masato22
ā–‰__Queen Amelia__Berlin__ā–‰
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__Luin Elen/ Father Superior__
__(The Blue Faery)__
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__(Valen Mori Elen)__
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ā–‰__Zexen Tiberius__Elen__ā–‰
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As the summitā€™s talks continued onward the anomaly that was the far in of the table made itself, rather herself known to the rest of the group. As she suddenly appeared out of thin air the others turned to identify the source of the new voice. Blue looked calmly as he knew there was someone there but he wasnā€™t sure whom until now. Valenā€™s eyes narrowed in on the mysterious woman that appeared. He turned to Blue and spoke, ā€œI suppose you havenā€™t lost any of that classic sharpness in your old age.ā€ He grinned. Blue simply gave a huff and rolled his eyes in response.

The woman spoke, ā€Well as wonderful as this has been so far Iā€™d like to raise a couple of points if I may.ā€ She began and only briefly paused before she continued. Firstly let me say that itā€™s certainly a change to be here with you all on such a pleasant evening but if Iā€™d actually been invited Iā€™d quite likely take umbrage at having been invited here to discuss trade but have it actually seem to be a cover under which another nation could dictate the foreign and wartime policies of its neighbours. Thatā€™s just me you understand and as I wasnā€™t technically invited I suppose I canā€™t very well complain now can I? Though my dear Arkaelus, you are a king after all so it is to be expected. ā€œ She paused for the merest heartbeat to incline her head towards Arkaelus, the gesture itself was so slight it could have meant almost anything from respect to be almost mocking.

The beautiful and mysterious woman continued. ā€But yes, overall a trade agreement between us all would certainly be of benefit and I doubt any of us here have an issue with that otherwise we wouldnā€™t be here. What with that being the reason you arranged this whole affair in the first place. However in regards to your ā€˜suggestionā€™ about embargoes I can certainly see issues arising as have already been stated. Though a solution, quite a simple one if applying it to wartime would be to allow the free passage of food but to blockade everything else and for all vessels in and out to be screened by a third party who are not themselves part of the conflict. Perhaps not ideal but if the only trade going in or out is that of food going in then little conflict could arise from it. Unless the food is subsequently poisoned and then of course the streets would run red with blood.ā€
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Amelia smiled to hear the new guestsā€™ perspective. She offered a good amendment suggestion for the proposition. She gave a cosigning nod in response to Fiona whose name she knew not. Father Superior like the sound of this suggestion, it was objective. He was considering being that third party seeing that he and the wishing star faeries were one of the most alliance neutral clans in the known world. This would be a way to help kingdoms work together toward good.

No sooner did the mysterious woman finish speaking did Nemu suddenly chime into the dialogue. She had seemed rather disinterested previously but now it seemed that she caught interest. "And pray tell, good lady, who would be this third party? You? My master? The Fae? Arkaelus himself? How can you be sure of any of these parties allegiance? Wars are only half won on the battlefield, intrigue is as necessary as armies." Nemu then turned to the Queen Berlin. Amelia looked upon the obscure and apparently tortured being somewhat surprised that it wanted to address her. Amelia took a deep breath in preparation of what was to come.

"And you, Lady Berlin, you place the lives of mere men above structures and establishments, as if they had some inherent worth. There is not a single resource on the plant more bountiful than the human form, or more malleable. And pray tell, when you expend your cities, your lands and your resources in the act of protecting you precious human lives, what will be left for them to return to? Will they survive? With no food, no shelter, no protection from the armies that ravish your lands?" Nemu sat in one of the plush chairs around the table, and took a contemptuous sip of her wine. "If you expend your lands in defense of your people, both will perish. If you expend your people to protect your lands, well..." She took another sip, "Castles cannot reproduce." The obscure woman finished.

Amelia was once again baffled by the single minded nature of the perspectives on this proposition. She understood that a kingdom could be at war with one nation or more, not trade with said nation or nations, yet still maintain allies with other nations and trade with them. Nothing was cut and dry most of all not war. She was about to respond, gripping the arm rests of her chair in preparation to stand. However before she could do so, Father Superior stood to his feet. He shot a glance toward Nemu.

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Father Superior looked toward King Arkaelus, in a more humbled and calm manner, and the mysterious woman that appeared suddenly and spoke. ā€œIf the 2nd proposition on trade is to be amended in the manner that the unnamed guest suggests, I would like to volunteer the Wishing Star Faeries of Anansai to undertake the task of being the assisting third party. We have been known to the world over for centuries as upholders of all that is good and light in the world. This is a matter that we could do with fairness and concern for all parties involved. Our magic allows us to travel with the utmost ease globally and to detect darkness such as poisons in most anything. Faery magic is the purest magic of all. Youā€™ll not find a more ideal candidate.ā€

Father Superior then addressed Nemu. ā€œLady Nemu,ā€ he began sternly. ā€What gives you of all creatures within this world the right to mockingly assess the worth of mortal life? You have been so far removed from any speckle of humanity by Tsarvin Sphex youā€™ve not a clue of the truth of life and its value. Your master deals in death and the perversion of creation. You down to your very physical body are a testament of your ignorance of the truth of lifeā€™s value, as well as the misfortune that has warped your very essence.ā€

Amelia spoke stood once again and approached Father Superior. She placed her hand gently on his arm in an attempt to calm him some. She could see that Nemuā€™s origins were indeed a troubling matter to The Blue Faery. Amelia knew very little of the wastes or of Tsarvin Sphex other than childhood stories that the old mages would tell to spoke her as a child. However it mattered not. ā€Lady Nemu, I can only speak to what I believe is true. I will answer your question to the best of my ability and honestly. Hypothetically speaking if my lands were overtaken by an enemy, I would do everything in my power to protect and safeguard my people and their lives. If that means fleeing then so be it. If I can save even only but a few from harm then I have not lost my kingdom. I believe the kingdom in truth is the heart of the people, not the soil that castles and houses are forged upon. We may have little in the end, we may have nothing but our lives, however much they are worth. However as long as we have those we have a chance to grow anew and thrive.ā€

Amelia looked to Father Superior who stood firm in place never allowing his gaze to break from Nemu. He was looking at a misguided minion of darkness. He understood his Empressā€™ adamant protests in full. She stepped in front of him into his line of sight. ā€œFather Superior judge her words not. She is only giving her opinion and what she believes to be true just like I have. We shouldnā€™t reprimand her for voicing her concerns no matter how upsetting they may be. She then turned to King Arkaelus and addressed him with a polite nod. [b]ā€King Arkaelus, Vinay Del Zexay would be willing to consider and accept the 2nd proposition for trade with the suggested amendment should we vote on amending it. Thank you for being willing to hear out this humble queenā€™s opinion.ā€ She honestly didnā€™t intend to give the man a hard time. She only wanted to be thorough.

Setting

Characters Present

Character Portrait: Dorian Ursuul Character Portrait: Kiran, Prince of Ashkara Character Portrait: Xiao Jingshen Ananse Character Portrait: Arim Funar Character Portrait: Zexen Tiberius Elen Character Portrait: Moloch Markus
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#, as written by phoenixheart
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Arim listened, curious as to what those gathered would make of Nemu. If the stories were true, and the darkness surrounding this woman, were anything to go by, Cinnabar would do well to stay away. And yet...No. Arim cast the thought from his mind before it had time to form. Such darkness could never be welcomed in Cinnabar, not while he was king. Even Aada could support him in that.

Aada looked to her brother when the Princes of Ashkara were announced. Another reminder, he supposed. There was little he knew about the South. His tutors had rarely spoken of it. Only Bastian had ever mentioned it, and even then, it was in passing. Perhaps it would be worth at least finding something out about Ashkara. Only then would he be able to discover if it was worth his time cementing an alliance with them.

ā€œSTOP!" Zexen's voice rang across the hall.

Arim looked away from Aada to see a hail of bullets hovering around Nemu. The magic surrounding them was unfamiliar. Unless Aada had learned some new tricks, she wasn't behind this. Arim shook his head. The Fae. He might soon get used to the fact that they were no longer at home. That meant that he and Aada weren't the only people adept at wielding magic.

Zexen stepped forward, asking them all to give Nemu a chance. Arim saw Aada step closer to Moloch from the corner of his eye. Of course she would go to the first man who paid her any attention here.

"It has been rumored that your master accepts slaves. Such serious accusations usually hold a kernel of truth. As such I cannot have you treat with us within the palace. However, you may go to the gardens and any who wish to speak to you may see you there. That is my only offer." Arkaelus said in response to Zexen's plea.

As the commotion died down, Moloch returned his attention to Aada, "I would be happy to tell you about my homeland. Would you like a drink? A little wine does wonders to ease the shock from... unexpected guests."

"I am far ahead of you, Your Grace," Cyrus said with a sigh, "I believe I will be drinking a bottle of Cinnabar Red myself."

Aada gathered her wits, pressing down on the feeling of wrongness settling in her gut. The sooner she was away from Lady Nemu, the better, though she did pity the woman. She had not chosen this life for herself, few ever would unless the alternative was worse. But that darkness, it felt all-consuming, like it would crush anything that dare stand in its way.

"A fine choice." Aada smiled , masking her unease, "I think we could all do with some wine. It appears that this summit will be a lot more interesting than we first though." she said, silently inviting Arim to join them. Arim stayed back a little as they made their way to the table. He had little desire to watch the King of Drake flirting with his sister.

"I have called for you all to gather here under the pretense of trade. Trade is something the benefits all of our nations and provides great wealth. I would like to propose a Free Trade Agreement between nations. Under this agreement import quotas, tariffs, and embargoes will become illegal. Markets will be deregulated so that our citizens may trade what they wish to whomever the please in any amount they so desire," Arkaelus announced. "Furthermore during wartime neutral trade vehicles shall not be harmed or stopped. Blockades may not prevent their target from accessing food as well."

Aada stiffened at the addition to Arkaelus's announcement. Surely, the banishment of blockades would only prolong wars. While that might appear a good thing for the nation under attack, a prolonging of the war would only mean more lives lost and ruined. in the long run. To agree to such a thing would be madness. Blockades were ugly things, but they often ensured a quick surrender. How long would it be before trade ships began hiding tools and weapons among the food? Aada took a sip of her wine. She couldn't say anything, it was not her place, it was Arim's.

"Drake will be happy to ratify any agreement nullifying archaic practices such as tariffs, quotas, and embargoes. The free competition of business has long served Drake well. It is also an act of supreme humanity to protect neutral trade vehicles. However, the sole purpose of a blockade in a lawfully declared war is to prevent the enemy from accessing the goods they need to prolong the conflict. That includes food as well.
"Drake is prepared to agree to the cessation of unlawful blockades in peace time, but I confess that I am puzzled. Can anyone tell me why it is preferable lengthen a siege and force the attacking army to take a fortress by force rather than allow a siege to end in surrender, saving countless lives?"

Handsome and intelligent. Aada was starting to like King Moloch more and more. The doors opened and Queen Berlin was introduced to the gathering. Aada was fond of the woman and had made a point of remaining in close contact with her, especially when her correspondence came with such wonderful recommendations. Asking Arim which books he had enjoyed often lead to disappointment. His tastes were much drier than Aada's. She took a seat near Arim. ā€Now, pleasantries aside, regarding your proposal King Arkaelus, I am inclined to agree with King Moloch. Free trade is a progressive move that is crucial to made. However nothing should be without careful and fair regulation. A foreign merchant given trust to come and go without precaution creates room for a grave error. My husband suffered death because of a similar policy involving merchants. I care not to repeat that mistake.ā€

Dorian, Arkaelus's general, if Aada wasn't mistaken, stood. "A blockade works against small, unprepared cities. However, that is not the case in situations where the commanders of fortified and well defended cities are determined to hold onto what they have until the very last moment. In those situations housing can be demolished to feed the forges, civilian metals can be reforged into weaponry, and food is always prioritized on the soldiers and the aristocracy. The commoners are left to fend for themselves. First they they strip the city of pets, then leather becomes an attractive commodity, eventually human flesh is the staple. After awhile plague hits the city, killing hundreds in it's wake. The holding force decide to send a waves of citizens out to the slaughter to ease the ration demand. When the city finally breaks, giving in to the enemy, it is but a shadow of its former state, taking generations to become productive again. We all represent the most powerful nations in the world. Should war break out between any of our nations, the aftermath would be grave. Without new laws of war, areas that were once productive trade centers will be reduced to invaluable population hubs. Soldiers and kings are easily replaceable, however, that's not the case with cities."

Aada pulled her bottom lip through her teeth. He would side with his king on this. She looked to Arim briefly, before returning her gaze to King Moloch, knowing what was about to come. Queen Amelia did not disappoint. Her argument held a great deal of intelligence. Aada and her brother had been taught that a King was the servant of his people, as much as they were a servant to him. No life was without worth.

A woman appeared out of thin air. Aada rolled her eyes. This was just getting absurd now. If she had been informed that morning that she was to be attending a trade summit with Fae, a fairy tale and a woman who appeared from thin air, only for it all to then be an attempt to control war policy, she would have laughed. She, too, appeared to have issue with Arkaelus's very idealistic policy.

Arim listened to the debate around him. He wished he had brought Bastian with him now. He would know how to maneuver these people, "If I may offer my thoughts," he said when it had quietened down, "While Cinnabar might agree with the abolition of quotas and embargoes in principle, truly Free Trade would make it all too easy for material support to fall to darker causes. By all means, allow for the relaxation of trade laws, but complete and global free trade will rarely work in any nation's favour. Why would we choose to support our allies and our enemies at the same time? Let each nation choose for themselves who they will trade with. So long as you have a good relationship with your allies, your only concern should be the weather with regards to trade.
"As for your proposals for blockades, it is far too neat, Your Majesty. Wars are messy businesses, as I'm sure everyone at this table is aware, and neat solutions rarely work. Barring blockades would only lead to greater losses, on both sides of the conflict. As for the plans to have the Wishing Faeries inspect ships, how will they cope with weapons smuggled in? The Fae's weakness to iron is well known. If we are to agree to this, we must consider every eventuality."

Aada's mouth felt dry. She took a sip of her wine. If she had seen the words written down on paper, she could have sworn they had tumbled from her father's mouth. Or even Bastian, though her brother lacked Bastian's cool self-assurance. It was disquieting to think that her brother might end up like her father. She refilled her glass. Surely her brother had been shielded from the worst of their father. She linked her hands together, waiting for the reaction to her brother's statement.

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The setting changes from The New World to The Republic of Khalidor

Characters Present

Character Portrait: [NPC] Bartender Character Portrait: Dorian Ursuul Character Portrait: Kiran, Prince of Ashkara Character Portrait: Arim Funar Character Portrait: Zexen Tiberius Elen Character Portrait: Moloch Markus
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#, as written by Roku Mushabuki
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Arkaelus sighed at the overwhelming opposition to his proposals, only one was really for the trade option and they were all against the blockade. He looked at Dorian, who was no doubt sizing up the other leaders. He would scrap the idea of the blockade. Besides, what need did Khalidor have for blockade regulations when it had the largest navy?

"If you all wish to continue wars the way they have been fought for centuries, so be it. As for the trade, I would encourage you all to come up with your own proposals on regulation. In the mean time I suggest we take up in the festivities. There are many activities that are offered in the palace that anyone can take part in." He said after sipping his wine. He looked towards the newcomer, who had revealed her presence without formal introduction. "By the way, you never introduced yourself." Arkaelus was fairly sure that the woman was from some country, perhaps a free city.

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Dorian continued drinking his wine as the others around him continued to bicker. Most were against the idea of a fairer blockade. To be honest, he never really thought that the trade portion of the summit would be successful. Still there was the other motive for the summit, military pacts. If they couldn't dominate through trade, they could always flaunt their navy.

"Well I'm bored of this conversation." Dorian said very nonchalant. "If anyone needs me, I'll be in the courtyard practicing. Zexen, how about we spar now?" He didn't want to be stuck in a room of nobles anymore than he had to.

The setting changes from The Republic of Khalidor to The New World

Setting

Characters Present

Character Portrait: Dorian Ursuul Character Portrait: Kiran, Prince of Ashkara Character Portrait: Xiao Jingshen Ananse Character Portrait: Arim Funar Character Portrait: Zexen Tiberius Elen Character Portrait: Moloch Markus
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#, as written by Tumbleweed
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The Princes of Ashkara
Akhil || Skandar || Kiran
Kiran's smile faltered, a flicker of horror passing through his features at Jingshen's words. He looked down at her sleeved arm, then back at his. "I-I'm sorry, I hadn't known. I should've been more careful." He stammered and, noticing the way Jingshen's eyes flicked towards his brother, quickly added, "He didn't mean it. He was just...worried." He explained, although he was quite sure that wasn't the case. But even then, Kiran didn't want Akhil to incur the Faes' displeasureā€”even if he did burn him on purpose. "Are you sure you're all right?" He asked, worry evident in his tone. Even if she did say it didn't pain her, he still had to make sure of it. It was his own foolishness that caused it, after all.

And then, to his great surprise, the Empress herself turned his way, addressing him with a gentle smile. "I should thank you, for protecting my sister, she is very dear to me." Kiran fought hard not to flush. "There's no need to thank me, Your Grace." He said quietly, "It was my pleasure, really." His gaze moved back to Jingshen as he spoke, and there was no mistaking the way his smile softened at the sight of the Fae.

All the while Skandar sat listening, looking increasingly puzzled at the exchange. However, the Empress of the Fae shifted her attention towards them just as he was about to ask, and his face once again settled into its usual mask. The Empressā€”Tenanyeā€”introduced them to her companions: the Princess Xiao Jingshen with her delicate features and her kind eyes (which, he observed, were focused on Kiran the entire time); and Severyn, Prince of the Seelie. He gave each of them a polite nod, but said nothing.

Akhil, however, was all smiles; tearing his attention away from the goblet of wine he'd been nursing in order to face the Faeries. "As are we. It is not so often that the Faeries of Anansai venture out into the mortal world. We are most fortunate to be in your presence." He answered silkily. Skandar had to suppress a scoff, remembering his brother's words earlier at the shipā€”"The fae are far too busy stealing children and talking to trees and such to venture out of their flowerbuds for something as inconsequential as a trade summit." Akhil had said. Now Skandar watched him from the corner of his eye, privately delighting in seeing his idiot brother eat his words.

He noticed a strange look crossing the Empress' features for a moment, and was rather surprised at her observation. It was true that they had magic in their veinsā€”after all, what was the ability to produce flames out of thin air or control vipers if not magical? However, it was most probably the Ifreet in them that she sensed. Ifreets, while notorious for their mischief, made very powerful sorcerersā€”so much so that they were constantly mistaken for Unseelie Fae (a claim that Skandar thinks might hold a shed of truth, as there have been theories saying that Ifreets evolved from a species of Fae that somehow made its way south).

Akhil was positively thrilled at being recognised, if the rather smug grin he wore was to be judged, but when the Empress turned her sights towards Skandar...well. All the Serpent Prince could give was a brief smirk, a nod, and a look in his eyes that promised more.

--

Kiran ducked his head in response, giving the Empress a smile before returning to Jingshen, "If it is the tendency to wander off, then yes, I believe we do have something in common." He grinned, obviously taken with the younger Fae. "Is this truly your first time out of Anansai?" He asked her, once again oblivious to the going-ons of the rest of the room.

Akhil in turn was rather stunned at the revelation. So that's why his brother and the Empress' sister were so friendly. He couldn't believe that his brother of all people had been lucky enough to cross paths with, and even rescue a Faery, let alone the Empress of Anansai's sister. To have a Fae indebted to a mortal was quite...remarkable. Very remarkable indeed. Knowing that, he almostā€”almostā€”felt guilty for giving Kiran that burn.

"That is...quite a substantial offer, your grace." He murmured, and it was true. An alliance with the Fae would be most marvelous. But, considering their current companions, he decided that this simply was something far too important to be discussed where others might hear. "Perhaps later, in private, we might discuss it, yes?" He added in a much quieter tone.

Akhil then shifted his sights to a dark-haired young man who seemed quite eager to see them. He noted with a raised eyebrow the way he very closely resembled Prince Severyn of the Seelie, and he flicked his eyes between the both of them a few times to make sure. Yes, they definitely did look rather identical, but he decided not to comment on it further as the two had most likely been on the receiving end of such queries all morning.

"Ah, the one they call the Dragon Prince, if I'm not mistaken." He drawled, pleased to learn that the rumours about Drake's attendance had indeed been true. "I should say the same to you." He told him, "From what I've heard, Drake City is quite extraordinary." He'd always been rather fascinated by Drake, particularly the dragons that used to roam the skies above it. The mere notion of monstrous beasts bathed in fire was enough to captivate him as a child, and it had always been a favourite game of his to pretend to be a dragon and shoot fireballsā€”and later, when he'd learned how, actually breathe fireā€”at his playmates (who were also Djinn, of course, because if not, they'd automatically be burned to a crisp). He had been looking forward to an audience with the Dragon King, but as they had yet to meet, his younger brother have to suffice.

--

As his brothers made conversation, Skandar took it upon himself to play observer to the rest of the delegates. That was their purpose in the first place: to observe, take note of Northern politics, and maybe even learn something out of it. The acquiring of additional trade partners would merely be an added bonus to their primary objective. So, when words started flying and exchanges became more heated, Skandar only sat back, not deigning to add to any of the arguments many of the monarchs presented.

He took idle sips at his wine, his eyes sparked with interest as they swept across the room. Two more had just arrived: Amelia, the Queen of Vinay del Zexay, and yet another woman. Though he hadn't the slightest as to who she was and which kingdom she represented, he would be hard pressed to deny that he was...intrigued...by her. He had noticed her early onā€”he wouldn't make a very good serpent if he missed herā€”but saw no pressing need to indicate his knowledge of presence.

She was quite articulate; no doubt someone of high birth. Perhaps even a Queen. But she spoke in a rather flippant fashion, while everyone else maintained a more refined toneā€”bar the horrid-looking woman from earlier, of course. Though he had to admit, he found her rebuttal quite sensible.

The Blue Faery, however, didn't seem to share his sentiments.

As the Fae prattled on about the sanctity of life or whatever it was that rankled him so much, Skandar was busy assessing the womanā€”or 'Lady Nemu', as they called herā€”with narrowed eyes.

So she was Sphex's. Well. That certainly wasn't a surprise, given her grotesque appearance. A child of the Waste. No wonder her presence had been treated with so much contempt. He made a note to speak to her afterwards, and gave her a final once-over, before returning to the current proceedings.

It seemed the Fae had finally ceased his little tirade. Skandar had begun to find his preaching rather tediousā€”not that he thought any better of his little Queen friend either. He could never really stomach the overly-sanctimonious.

Setting

Characters Present

Character Portrait: Father Superior The Blue Faery Character Portrait: Arkaelus Ursuul Character Portrait: Fiona Pynchon Character Portrait: Skandar, Prince of Ashkara Character Portrait: Nemu Kizomuri
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#, as written by Fabricator
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A faint smile curled her lips as Nemu addressed her and she couldnā€™t help but tilt her head slightly as she conceded the point for a moment. However before she was able to think of a suitable replshoy the floor was taken by the group of magical creatures who had first piqued her interest when she first entered; with the faeries placing themselves as the noble choice as a neutral third party. The scathing manner in which they announced such to Nemu seemed a little uncalled for; even given her nature though her own tone towards herself and another within the hall were no less so. While she knew they would make respectable allies there was something deep within her veins which bred distrust of the envoys of Anansai, though she could not fully explain it for they seemed to exemplify purity in all its forms. Perhaps it was simply distrust of something so pristine on the principle that itā€™s hiding something. Sipping her wine slowly she almost missed the rather disgruntled comment from their host, who from his tone did not like the concept of his suggestion being thrown aside so readily.

ā€Where are my manners, of course. I am Lady Fionnaghal Pynchon, High Sage of Kythiania, here as representative of my lands, and her interests here following our age long absence from world affairs.ā€

As she spoke her name her voice took on a thicker accent than previously which persisted through the rest of her words before fading as she paused for breath.

ā€Now before your minds run rampant with whatever old wives tales that you heard when you were young, let me assure you that whatever mysteries that have been woven of my land they are equally likely to be fact as they are to be fiction. And unlike the Wasteland of Nemu our monsters are kept under control rather than left to roam free.ā€

She smiled to all in attendance and chuckled jovially to herself before taking another small sip of her wine. She looked across at the guards stationed around the room and something sheā€™d noticed earlier came back to nag at her.

ā€Also Arkaelus given that your guards seem to be well trained if your general is anything by which to measure them I am rather perplexed by what can only be described as a lack of discipline given that upon my sudden appearance in their midst, especially within such close proximity to yourself, they did not once think to question such an arrival.ā€

Lifting her free hand in mock surrender she shook her head for a moment.

ā€Just like to make clear that Iā€™m not wanting them to suddenly decide to rectify that lapse.ā€

Bowing her head to Arkaelus once more she reclined in her seat and withdrew from the conversation a little to await any response. Her gaze settled on a figure on the far side of the room, past that of those of Anansai where one of a trio stood apart. His attention had flickered to her a few times, both prior to her appearance and since. Sheā€™d be the first to admit she hadnā€™t really paid much attention to the all inhabitants of the room save for those who actively projected their magical aura beyond that of their natural presence. A trait she found a little clichĆ© given that it was usually done to awe others or assert their own standing over others who were sensitive to such. She smiled a little to herself and decided to learn more about this perceptive man.

Fionaā€™s staff had ceased eyeing up all the members in the chamber and had instead simply begun to focus on Nemu alone while her attention was elsewhere, though this fact was mostly unnoticed by all present; after all it never moved and its expression could only be described as wooden.

The setting changes from The New World to The Republic of Khalidor

Characters Present

Character Portrait: Dorian Ursuul Character Portrait: Kiran, Prince of Ashkara Character Portrait: Xiao Jingshen Ananse Character Portrait: Arim Funar Character Portrait: Zexen Tiberius Elen Character Portrait: Moloch Markus
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#, as written by TheCrimsonLady
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Tenanye listened on as the others spoke. She had no want or need for Khalidor's war regulations, it seemed like Khalidor wanted it's hands in everyone's business, which, while she herself had her own plans for doing just that, she never wanted it to seem that way. Tenanye was never one to place all her cards on the table. Moreover, she couldn't understand why the creature was talking as if she had some say so in her master's affairs, she is a toy, and it confounded her that the others were even entertaining the beast but Zexen's kind heart begged them to humor her and so Tenanye let that be.

During all of this back and forth, Xiao Jingshen, smiling ear to ear, went on with Kiran, whose brothers granted her promises, the eldest, promised conversation, the other, dangerously less.

Fae, were notoriously sensual creatures, this Tenanye was not immune, and the look in Skandar's eye had placed a small but coquetry grin on her own face. "Very well, Later then." she told both brothers.

Finally, Arkaelus concluded the first of the meeting.
"If you all wish to continue wars the way they have been fought for centuries, so be it. As for the trade, I would encourage you all to come up with your own proposals on regulation. In the mean time I suggest we take up in the festivities. There are many activities that are offered in the palace that anyone can take part in." He said, relenting it seemed. She almost pitied him, as his free trade plan didn't go over as well as he clearly had hoped, however, she did see that since Khalidor intended on being everywhere at once, it would be best for her plans, if she allied with them. That many places, if she were a close ally, she could be there as well...but how...?

Meanwhile, Xiao Jingshen continued her conversation with Kiran.
"If it is the tendency to wander off, then yes, I believe we do have something in common." He said, both of them clearly smitten though she was certain that Xiao Jingshen didn't know it. [b]"Is this truly your first time out of Anansai? [b]
"We can not lie, Kiran." Xiao Jingshen said with a smile. "Yes, truly, and while I do wander off but that's not what my sister meant, she means, that, you are like me, Half Mortal...." She said, with a bashful sideways glance.

Upon hearing the King's words, Xiao Jinghen wanted to spring to her feet. "Oh Meimei, Can we go see the festivies? Can I do my dance, the Prince didn't see it." She said, and Tenanye looked at her. "Which dance, Little Sparrow?" She asked her coyly and Xiao Jingshen blushed red. "Meimei..." Xiao Jingshen groaned. "The umbrella dance, That was always my favorite." Severyn said mercifully and Xiao Jingshen smiled brightly. "Yes, the Umbrella." She said and turned to the princes, but her eyes were on Kiran. "I did a dance and a song, before you all arrived, I would do it again, if you'd like, but I can do another dance." She said and then turned to the two pretty woman, two Queens that arrived late as well. she honestly missed their arrival.

"You all may watch if you'd like, I love to dance." She grinned. It was one of the few times were Xiao Jingshen wasn't shy. She loved dancing, and Tenanye said she was the best she'd ever seen, which had to be true, since Fae cannot lie. "I can do a dance with umbrellas, and swords....not yours swords though, and not with the umbrella." She said, giggling bashfully before looking at Kiran once more. "Would you like to see?"

The setting changes from The Republic of Khalidor to The New World

Setting

Characters Present

Character Portrait: Xiao Jingshen Ananse Character Portrait: Arim Funar Character Portrait: Zexen Tiberius Elen Character Portrait: Moloch Markus Character Portrait: Valen Mori Elen Character Portrait: Severyn Alderson; Seelie Prince
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#, as written by almostinsane
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It would seem that the summit had reached an impasse. Trade would be deregulated significantly, but the powers of the known world would not consent to another nation meddling in how they waged war. It was brave of Arkaelus to try, however, and the restriction would have burdened his nation more than anything. Moloch felt his respect for the other king increase slightly. He made a mental note to increase the stockpile of food and supplies at Ithaca when this summit was over. It was a pity. The Dragon King had hoped to goad his host in vowing uphold the treaty in its entirety before retracting his own opposition, but that was not to be.

He glanced at the beautiful woman at his side with a slight smile. He could tell that her brother wasn't pleased with the way they seemed to be interacting, but there wasn't much he could do. There was nothing scandalous about a foreign king and princess making small talk at a trade summit, after all, and Moloch was not like Kallias. He did not allow the whispers of the goddess Lila to cloud his judgement and create scandal.

"Thank you," he murmured as he took a goblet of wine from a bowing servant. He couldn't help but smirk as Cyrus himself took a whole bottle for himself as he promised. He studied her expression. She seemed troubled. He would have to inquire about that away from prying ears.

"What can you tell me about your magical studies? I confess, I have a bit of talent myself," he told her, sending heat into the hand holding his cup to warm his wine.

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Kallias smiled at the Ashkara prince next to him, happy that he shared his own interest.

"Oh, Drake is magnificent. We are the center of culture: gladiator fights, theatre, the women... Oh, gods, we have the best women in the world and the markets are so exciting. Everything makes its way there eventually," he told Akhil with a roguish grin, "But I would love to visit Soltera. What are the people like there?"

The setting changes from The New World to The Republic of Khalidor

Characters Present

Character Portrait: Dorian Ursuul Character Portrait: Kiran, Prince of Ashkara Character Portrait: Xiao Jingshen Ananse Character Portrait: Arim Funar Character Portrait: Zexen Tiberius Elen Character Portrait: Moloch Markus
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#, as written by masato22
__Luin Elen/ Father Superior__
__(The Blue Faery)__

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As the summit continued forward the King of Cinnabar took the floor. "As for your proposals for blockades, it is far too neat, Your Majesty. Wars are messy businesses, as I'm sure everyone at this table is aware, and neat solutions rarely work. Barring blockades would only lead to greater losses, on both sides of the conflict. As for the plans to have the Wishing Faeries inspect ships, how will they cope with weapons smuggled in? The Fae's weakness to iron is well known. If we are to agree to this, we must consider every eventuality."

Father Superior listened to his opinion openly. The young king brought up a very good and valid point. He hadnā€™t considered his own weakness to iron. Father Superior nodded in agreement. ā€You bring to light a very important factor that I overlooked King Arim. In the event that Iron is detected a fae will feel discomfort, I imagine they will also work alongside the border patrols of the kingdoms during times of inspections. If iron is detected the patrolmen will be alerted and the smuggler apprehended I assume. Once the fae is out of the presence of iron, he or she should be recover with little problem.ā€ he said in response to Arim with a relaxed smile. He appreciated Arimā€™s considering the safety of the faeries.


King Arkaelus spoke, "If you all wish to continue wars the way they have been fought for centuries, so be it. As for the trade, I would encourage you all to come up with your own proposals on regulation. In the mean time I suggest we take up in the festivities. There are many activities that are offered in the palace that anyone can take part in." He said after sipping his wine. He looked towards the newcomer, who had revealed her presence without formal introduction. "By the way, you never introduced yourself." Arkaelus concluded.

ā€Where are my manners, of course. I am Lady Fionnaghal Pynchon, High Sage of Kythiania, here as representative of my lands, and her interests here following our age long absence from world affairs.ā€ As Fionnaghal spoke her name her voice took on a thicker accent than previously which persisted through the rest of her words before fading as she paused for breath. ā€Now before your minds run rampant with whatever old wives tales that you heard when you were young, let me assure you that whatever mysteries that have been woven of my land they are equally likely to be fact as they are to be fiction. And unlike the Wasteland of Nemu our monsters are kept under control rather than left to roam free.ā€

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ā€œKythianiaā€¦ now there is a name Iā€™ve not heard in a very long time. Father Superior thought to himself. He knew it to be a place of great magic. As he looked upon the woman in intrigue he was addressed by Valen. ā€Well Luin you look deep in thought. Perhaps youā€™re concerned with something a hidden secret perhaps?ā€ Valen smirked mockingly at Blue.

Blue looked to his side where Valen was and smiled in a slightly sarcastic manner. ā€You treat me as if I am a being not to be trusted.ā€

Valen huffed a quick chuckle before responding, ā€Believe me Luin I wouldnā€™t be the first person not to TRUST The Blue Faery, and with good reason.ā€ Valen couldnā€™t help but take verbal jabs at Blue. He was having a more difficult time suppressing his bitterness than he thought he would. Blue looked silently at Valen. He was clearly upset but refrained from responding. It was Blueā€™s lack of response that would, in the past, upset Valen worse.

Father Superior leered at Valen a moment longer and shook his head in a manner suggesting that heā€™d given up bickering with his former lover. ā€Iā€™ve a wishing star faery to locate. If youā€™ll excuse me.ā€ he responded and quickly reverted to pixie size. He swiftly flew away toward the large entrance of the grand room. The guards were quite amazed at his ability to shift size and fly. They had to snap out of their staring to remember that they needed to open the door for the guest. Blue bowed politely to the men and exited as soon as the doors were opened.

Blue flew about the castle and decided to search the outside festival grounds. Niven would not have easily been admitted into the castle. There were so many people singing, dancing, and eating. Flying through the large crowds of people would have been suicide for the pixie sized Father Superior so he opted to fly above them. He couldnā€™t stand being human sized a moment longer. Not long after hovering above the people did he spot the runaway faery. At a dumpling cart stood human sized Niven stuffing his mouth with large dumplings. Father Superior was relieved to see the young fae was alright.

He flew toward Niven who was about to take another bite from the large dumpling in his hand. Blue materialized his wand and pointed it at the dumpling changing it into a large clump of cotton. After biting into the cotton confused Niven saw the pixie sized Father Superior fly in front of him. Shocked he jumped backward narrowly missing a large man carrying a couple of beer mugs. The large mortal fussed at the young fae urging him to watch what he was doing. Niven apologized and then followed Father Superior who motioned for Niven to come with him.

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Once to two reached the outer perimeter of the festival grounds they spoke. Niven chuckled nervously, ā€Father Superiorā€¦. I- umā€¦ Fancy meeting you here of all places! Heheheā€¦ā€

Father Superior crossed his arms. ā€Likewise.ā€ he replied in a rather plain fashion.

Niven continued, ā€I thought you were still in Anansai. You know, with important faery stuff to doā€¦ā€ He knew this was not panning out well for him. After realizing that he was still human size Niven reverted back to pixie form.

ā€Likewise I thought the same of you earlier. You expressly disobeyed what I told you. You thought you were in trouble beforeā€¦ā€ Father Superior reprimanded.

Niven was beginning to rethink his impulsive decision to go to Khalidor despite being told to do otherwise. ā€œIā€™m sorry Father Superior. I just really wanted to be a part of the mortal world we help all the time. Itā€™s one thing to fly over it all the time but to be down here, eat their food, hear their stories, celebrate with themā€¦ It makes me appreciate the work we do all the more. I just wanted to experience it even if just once, since I was going to be on punishment anyway. I figured Iā€™d make it worth it.ā€ Niven hung his head waiting for Father Superiorā€™s further reprimanding.

Father superior smiled, much to Nivenā€™s surprise. ā€Dear you have an uncommon gift for making me change my mind. Perhaps I was a little overly strict earlier. Your actions today, despite how disobedient they may have been, have inspired me. Also it has been brought to my attention, being present at the summit, that things are changing in the world around us. We may be taking a more active role in things soon. Youā€™ll receive a free this time, but do know that no such luck will come to you should there be a next time.ā€ The two began to make their way into the castle.

Characters Present

Character Portrait: Kiran, Prince of Ashkara Character Portrait: Xiao Jingshen Ananse Character Portrait: Arim Funar Character Portrait: Moloch Markus Character Portrait: Valen Mori Elen Character Portrait: Severyn Alderson; Seelie Prince
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#, as written by masato22
ā–‰__Queen Amelia__Berlin__ā–‰
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Amelia was quite surprised that King Arkaelus had decided to move on from further discussing his trade proposal altogether. She sat in her seat looking at the king quietly. He was a sensible man it seemed. Something about his disposition reminded her vaguely of her late husband. The thought provoked the welling of tears in her eyes. She quickly realized and casually closed her eyes swiping her lashes of any visible tears before returning to a pleasant smile. She noticed Father Superior leave the room, as it seemed Valen had provoked him. She wasnā€™t sure of the connection between the two but it didnā€™t seem to be a positive one. She wanted to thank the Blue Faery for his support in the past. Sheā€™s have to wait till later.

Turning her attention back to those surrounding her, she was pleasantly greeted with the site of the blooming fae Xiao. The fae girl was obviously bubbling with cheer being in the presence of the youngest Askara Prince, whom Amelia agreed was quite charming.

"Oh Meimei, Can we go see the festivies? Can I do my dance, the Prince didn't see it." Xiao said, and Tenanye looked at her. "Which dance, Little Sparrow?" Tenanye asked her coyly and Xiao Jingshen blushed red. "Meimei..." Xiao Jingshen groaned. "The umbrella dance, That was always my favorite." Severyn said mercifully and Xiao Jingshen smiled brightly. "Yes, the Umbrella." Tenanye said and turned to the princes, but her eyes were on Kiran. "I did a dance and a song, before you all arrived, I would do it again, if you'd like, but I can do another dance." Xiao said and then turned to Amelia and Fionna.

Amelia began to feel like a teenager all over watching Xiao in her giddy state. All smiles, Ameliaā€™s smiling expression only grew brighter when Xiao addressed her and Fionna. "You all may watch if you'd like, I love to dance." Xiao grinned. "I can do a dance with umbrellas, and swords....not yours swords though, and not with the umbrella." She said, giggling bashfully before looking at Kiran once more. "Would you like to see?"

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Amelia looked at Fionna and Kiran with a bright smile of her own. She turned to Xiao and replied joyfully,ā€I would most love to see you dance! I LOVE dancing! Iā€™m so sorry I missed you earlier! Iā€™m sure you were most dazzling!ā€

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Amelia had a sudden idea. She wanted to help out the charming Xiao as best she could. Amelia continued, ā€œHow about you perform your most favorite dance for us, and then if you feel up to it princess, we all take part in a couples waltz? Iā€™m sure Kiran would love to dance with you.ā€ Amelia looked playfully at Kiran hoping he would catch on and agree to dance with Xiao after her solo performance. There was nothing like a first dance to cement a romance to be.

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The setting changes from The Republic of Khalidor to The New World

Setting

Characters Present

Character Portrait: Dorian Ursuul Character Portrait: Kiran, Prince of Ashkara Character Portrait: Xiao Jingshen Ananse Character Portrait: Zexen Tiberius Elen Character Portrait: Father Superior The Blue Faery Character Portrait: Fiona Pynchon
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#, as written by Tumbleweed
Skandar
Prince of Ashkara
Kythiania. It was a name he had only encountered so far in writing, and to hear it spoken aloudā€”to actually encounter living proof that such a land exists...Skandar's brow gave a curious twitch. In the last hour, he'd witnessed many a strange thing: Fae outside Anansai, talking, mingling with mortals; creatures straight from the Wastes; leaders of several of the largest, most powerful kingdoms in the North herded into one tiny room, alive, unharmed, and with their heads still attached to their necks (normally, at gatherings like these, men like Blue would've already had their heads mounted on spears with their mouths stuffed with their own cocksā€”or maybe that was just a Southron thing; he did notice Northern leaders tended to be more subdued than what he's used to)...yet nothing could quite compete with this rather intriguing revelation.

So Kythianna still had life in it, after all. This should be a treat. He had always wondered about what lay within its icy confines, and if what the High Sage (he could not, for the life of him, reproduce whatever noise she made in place of her nameā€”not even in his head. He's quite sure it began with an 'F', though) claimed was true, then it probably wasn't filled with living blizzards and ten-foot tall monsters of ice and snow. Still, he found the circumstances of its reemergence rather puzzling.

Why now? Kythiana had most likely done well for themselves if they managed to survive this long with their doors shut. Why open them? If it was trade they were looking for, what could they possible offer in return? Ice? Snowflakes? Penguins?

Skandar's eyes narrowed a fraction, before flicking his gaze towards Dorian. Such queries could wait. The initial meeting had finally reached its conclusion, and the Fae were to perform a dance (in which the Queen of Vinay del Zexay was trying to unsubtly coerce his brother to come and join, much to Skandar's disgust). The very last thing he wanted at the moment was to have to stay and watch Kiran lose what minute shred of dignity he had left prancing around with a pointy-eared lassā€”pretty little thing though she wasā€”so he slowly pulled himself to stand.

"General Ursuul." He called out as the man and the Dark Faery's son turned to leave, "I rather think an encounter such as this deserves an audience." He said, giving the General a pointed look that privately conveyed his desire to get out of the chamber as soon as humanly possible. "Should you permit it, of course."

Setting

Characters Present

Character Portrait: Xiao Jingshen Ananse Character Portrait: Arkaelus Ursuul Character Portrait: Tenanye Ananse; Empress of Anansai Character Portrait: Skandar, Prince of Ashkara Character Portrait: Nemu Kizomuri Character Portrait: Tszarvin Sphex
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#, as written by zeph_gm
Nemu zoned out of the conversation. If none would listen to her counsel, then so be it, it was no concern of hers. Her role here was complete, she would leave soon and return to her master, so he may relieve her of this blasted enhanced cortex system. The unusual mixture of chemicals and thought processes made her all the more uneasy and irritable, an emotion that usually did not affect her. No emotion usually affected her. She had been elevated above such concerns by her masters ingenuity.
She stood and made her way towards King Arkaelus, bowing low but maintaining eye contact with the man as he sat in his throne.
"My lord Arkaelus," she said, returning her cowl to her face, once again covering the deformities along her skull, "My master sends his regards, and wishes you to know that he sorry for not being here in person. He was preoccupied with a project of great delicacy."
She nodded hr head one final time and turned and strode towards the exit of the hall, but not before passing some key groups towards which she desired to leave some passing words.
"Queen Tenanye," She said to the Fae Empress, "I wish to congratulate you on your wondrous physical form and mental capabilities. I believe one of my auxiliary Cortex centres may have been Fae in origin, its processing power is... splendid." She smiled and continued walking, but not before passing the Ashkara Princes.
"Prince Skander, it is a pleasure to see you again. I hope your father is well, my Master remembers him fondly." Nemu lied, Sphex cared for nothing but his craft, but she was finding it was prudent to lie to achieve what she desired. What her master desired. Without waiting for a reply, she continued on and out the door, where her waiting guards stood motionless without her presence. The four stood against the wall as if they were grotesque statues of flesh and metal. Where the guards of the other nobles talked in low voices and even played a simple gambling game on a low table, her bodyguards stood as motionless, silent and cold as the grave.
"Come." She said, the one simple order jolting the creatures into life, upon which they began loping on behind and ahead of her. There was nothing left for her to do here. Her task was done. She would return to her beloved master.

Sphex stood amongst the lumbering chaos of his new abode. Their current patron had been generous in their contribution to Sphex's trade, including a space for his laboratory, which his Ghouls were currently furnishing with specialized equipment brought with them from the wastes.
"Careful you maggots! This equipment is worth more than all of your miserable lives combined!" He spat, but was returned by only silence, He had long since removed his slaves capacity for speech. It was a skill and distraction they did not need and he did not desire. They were shaped by his will, and were bound to it. They were simply extensions of his own body. A thousand extra hands to enact his desires with.
Nemu would be finishing her role at the summit soon, and would return to him post-haste. She was his masterpiece, ever evolving and enhancing. She was far from perfect, but Spex did not believe in such a thing. Sphex believed in advancement, improvement, augmentation, but not perfection.
He stalked over to where the slaves his patron had provided sat in their cages, packed in like sardines and stinking of piss, shit and fear.
"Why are you afraid?" Sphex asked them, his voice hissing from between sharpened needle teeth, "You are about to achieve the greatest privilege you shall ever receive, the chance to be apart of my genius, to be moulded by my mastery of the flesh and the soul." He reached a large, pale hand through the bars, his long taloned fingers gently curling around a young womans face, tears streaming down her tan face, her sobs muffled to a whimper by his touch.
"I will mould you to my will, and you will be... glorious."

The setting changes from The New World to The Republic of Khalidor

Characters Present

Character Portrait: Dorian Ursuul Character Portrait: Zexen Tiberius Elen Character Portrait: Skandar, Prince of Ashkara
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#, as written by Roku Mushabuki
Dorian Ursuul
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ā€So Sir Dorian, you may have a slight advantage over me today. Iā€™ve been cooped up in a carriage for hours today, and have had a considerable amount of wine at dinner. Go easy on me.ā€ Zexen said. Dorian laughed. He thought that every noble there would have posh humor, apparently he was wrong. Just Dorian. No Sir please. Then Skander asked if he could watch their duel. "Of course, come along.

He guided the other two down the many corridors until they reached the courtyard. It was large, flanked with columns and large hardy greenery. Within the space there was a large heated pool in the center, a small tavern to the side, a blacksmiths forge, and training grounds towards the back. Dorian waved Skandar and Zexen over to the tavern. The wall facing the pool was knocked down as so who took a dip could get their drinks. The courtyard alone cost millions of ducats to pay for, so it had the finest to offer.

Dorian ordered a bottle of vodka from the servant working there. Khalidor invented vodka, so they claimed anyway, which they took great pride in. He took a generous swig of the brew and smiled at Zexen. "I haven't had much wine so this should even the odds. Have you ever tasted vodka? It's more of a backwoods drink and it rarely leaves the countryside. I think you'd like it." He poured a bit into two glasses for his guests. "It has a slightly stronger kick than wine." He commented. Personally he loved the stuff. Vodka was a standard staple in Khalidor's military. Every soldier was given a small personal bottle each month. They even used it as a base in many of their stews.

Characters Present

Character Portrait: Dorian Ursuul Character Portrait: Kiran, Prince of Ashkara Character Portrait: Xiao Jingshen Ananse Character Portrait: Zexen Tiberius Elen Character Portrait: Severyn Alderson; Seelie Prince Character Portrait: Arkaelus Ursuul
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#, as written by TheCrimsonLady
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ā€I would most love to see you dance! I LOVE dancing! Iā€™m so sorry I missed you earlier! Iā€™m sure you were most dazzling!ā€ Queen Amelia said and Xiao Jingshen blushed bashfully. Tenanye noted that Amelia seemed to want to help this budding relationship with Xiao Jinghen and Kiran, why she couldn't say. ā€œHow about you perform your most favorite dance for us, and then if you feel up to it princess, we all take part in a couples waltz? Iā€™m sure Kiran would love to dance with you.ā€ She said and
Tenanye smiled as Queen Amelia humored her sweet sister and appreciated it. This friendship between Kiran and Xiao Jingshen would be most beneficial, as it was clear that the young prince seemed smitten and Xiao Jingshen was more then receptive.
Xiao Jingshen bit her lip. "I've never dance withanyone before." She said feebly. "I'm afraid I don't know how..." She said adorably.
It was in that moment, Tenanye got an idea. Two, to be exact.
A perfect way to cement ties between Ashkara and Anansai, as well as with Khalidor. She wasn't sure how much Xiao Jingshen would like this, but Tenanye sensed no danger from Kiran, his heart was pure. It was his brothers she worried about. Skandar specifically, snakes were always known for biting the hand that fed them. That being said, for what Tenanye had planned, she needed Xiao Jingshen safe, and away from the harm that would surely come.....

"Queen Tenanye," Tenanye turned to see Nemu standing, facing her now. Tenanye watched her with a curious eye. "I wish to congratulate you on your wondrous physical form and mental capabilities. I believe one of my auxiliary Cortex centres may have been Fae in origin, its processing power is... splendid." Tenanye frowned. Fae in Origin?
Nemu went on to address the Ashakari prince that worried her and proved her fears.
"Prince Skander, it is a pleasure to see you again. I hope your father is well, my Master remembers him fondly."
Tenanye arched her brow in his direction. She should not blame him for his father's sins, but she hardly trusted him as it was, that was not something she needed to hear.
She watched as Skandar slithered off with Dorian and Zexen. She took a breath and noticed that the host of this summit was awfully quiet and she figured now would be the best time for what she had in mind. There were two other Queens here yet no King. She had to do this, and cement it quickly.
"Severyn, Keep an eye on Xiao Jingshen, will you, I'm going to speak with the King but I will need to do this alone." She said. Severyn frowned a bit, but nodded. "Of course."
"King Arkaelus" She called, getting his attention, rising for her chair, and moving to him, walking with such grace she appeared to be gliding.
"Do you mind joining me for a walk?" She asked with a graceful bow. "I could use a some fresh air."

The setting changes from The Republic of Khalidor to The New World

Setting

Characters Present

Character Portrait: Dorian Ursuul Character Portrait: Zexen Tiberius Elen Character Portrait: Father Superior The Blue Faery Character Portrait: Skandar, Prince of Ashkara
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#, as written by masato22
ā–‰__Zexen Tiberius__Elen__ā–‰
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__Luin Elen/ Father Superior__
__(The Blue Faery)__

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Zexen was beginning to feel considerably more relaxed. Dorian laughed at his joke. Zexen had never before considered himself talented in the area of comedy but he wasnā€™t dull in humor either. Since heā€™d been drinking his joking and jovial behavior only increased. He wasnā€™t too excited when he heard Skandar ask to come along with them. He hadnā€™t really wanted anyone to watch the sparring match in the event that heā€™d end up embarrassing himself against the general. However Zexen tried to maintain his no pressure mentality. ā€œItā€™s fine, let him watch. Youā€™ll do fine. Whatā€™s another stranger watching? Although it would help to have a friend out here with me.ā€ He thought to himself.


The courtyard was large, flanked with columns and large hardy greenery. Within the space there was a large heated pool in the center, a small tavern to the side, a blacksmiths forge, and training grounds towards the back. Dorian waved Skandar and Zexen, over to the tavern. The wall facing the pool was knocked down as so who took a dip could get their drinks.

Dorian ordered a bottle of vodka from the servant working there. He took a generous swig of the brew and smiled at Zexen. "I haven't had much wine so this should even the odds. Have you ever tasted vodka? It's more of a backwoods drink and it rarely leaves the countryside. I think you'd like it." He poured a bit into two glasses for his guests. "It has a slightly stronger kick than wine." He commented.

Zexen snickered. ā€Well, Dorian, if this Vodka can catch you up to where I am currently, and yet you offer me some, Iā€™d suspect you are trying to end the match before it starts.ā€ his snicker filtered into hearty laughter. Zexen felt comfortable with Dorian, unusually quicker than he did with most strangers. Skandar, however, didnā€™t quite put him at ease so there was still a slight feeling of apprehension Zexen felt. The man seemed calculating, always brewing some plan in his head by the looks of it.

Just to his surprise he spotted the blue light of the pixie sized Father Superior who was accompanied by a floating green light. It seemed he was with another wishing star faery. The two were headed down the hallway toward the courtyard. Zexen remembered that he was technically a wishing star faery but he almost never reverted in size nor spouted his wings. He figured he was small enough in stature as it was. Zexen wanted a friend to help him feel more at ease and like a wish answered The Blue Faery appeared. ā€Thank the stars Blue!ā€ Zexen thought. Zexen spoke out, his voice ringing through the courtyard and into the hallway, ā€Father Superior, my friend! Weā€™re off for some sparring, Dorian and I. King Skandar will be spectating. Come join us! I am about to try a new drink called VODKA!!ā€

Zexen thought once more having realized that he called Blue friend. ā€I called him my friend. Are we really actually friends? Weā€™ve only met once before today, and back then I manipulated him into helping me get my revenge. He did say that all is well between us, but we never officially stated that weā€™re friends. Heā€™s kind to me, and I guessā€¦ I trust him.ā€

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Father Superior was pleasantly surprised to see the group seated at a tavern built off of the courtyard. He smiled and bowed to the group consisting of Skandar, Dorian, and Zexen. ā€Iā€™d be glad to join you if youā€™ll have Niven and me along.ā€ He and Niven proceeded to join the group.

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Niven lit up with the sound of this unfamiliar beverage. ā€I most certainly want to try!! Please pour me a glass! OH and donā€™t forget one for OLD Blue eyes here!!ā€ Without hesitation he shifted to human size and accepted the clear beverage. Blue couldnā€™t help but laugh at the young Faeryā€™s outgoing behavior. Father Superior didnā€™t object to a strong drink and seeing that Niven was all set to party he felt heā€™d need the drink now more than ever. ā€King Skandar, Grand General Dorian, Lord Zexen, this is Niven. He is a wishing star faery in training to one day, in the VERY distant future, become a faery godfather.ā€ Blue introduced the young Fae.

ā€Itā€™s nice to meet you Niven.ā€ Zexen replied as he raised his glass to the Faery. Zexen hadnā€™t really met a young wishing star faery like himself before meeting Niven. Being around him was somewhat thought provoking for Zexen. Looking at Niven he wondered what would he and his father be like had Valen not left Anansai years ago. Would Father Superior be training him to become a faery godfather as well? Zexen looked away from Niven and down into his cup, trying to take his thoughts in another direction.

Zexen examined the drink. It looked like water only slightly thicker. It also smelled really strongly. He was most curious and eager to try it. ā€Dorian I have not tried this before and Iā€™m simply bursting at my seams to taste it. We shall toast and then taste! To FRIENDSHIP, ALLAINCES, AND GOOD TIMES!!ā€ After toasting and gulping down a large mouthful of the drink Zexen swallowed heavily and gasped. ā€My STARS THATā€™S GOT KICK!! Itā€™s disgusting but I love it! It makes you feelā€¦ braveā€¦ā€ Zexen said jovially. His face beginning to turn red as the booze was beginning to add up in his system.

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Niven drank and almost choked. He had never tasted anything quite like vodka before. ā€Oh I could get into a lot of trouble drinking this!! the young faery exclaimed. He took yet another swig.

Blue commented after taking a few drinks and reacting surprisingly composed in manner, only displaying a minor pleased flinch. ā€That is why you had better savor the taste of vodka now because you are not bringing it with us back to Anansai so you can terrorize everyone within miles later. Blue said with a laugh, his lips being brought back to the brim of his cup. He looked to the Southern serpent King, ā€œSo Skandar, is the your first time trying this beverage as well?ā€ Blue hadnā€™t really had the chance to talk to Skandar at all not that he had much in particular to say to him. He did sense the magical energy in the king. His magic was much different than that of the fae or wishing star faeries for that matter.

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Zexen, took a moment to get up and examine the blacksmithā€™s forge. Zexen immediately noticed it when they arrived in the courtyard but he finally had the chance to check it out up close. He loved blacksmith work. He felt that if he were born in a different situation he probably would have been a smithy by professional trade. ā€What a fine forge you have here!! I imagine you spend a lot of tie out here Dorian. Even in the cold of your country, this flame will keep you never lacking warmth as long as youā€™re within its embrace. I love blacksmith work!ā€ Zexen inspected the area excitedly.

Although Zexen was a fae he had an unusual immunity to the sickness that iron brought on to any and all fae. Father Superior made sure to remain near the Tavern and not venture close to the forge. He noted Zexenā€™s ability to work around iron without issue and found it intriguing. Even Xiao who was half fae was negatively affected by iron. Father Superior knew that the reason was magic related in origin, an unusual rare and powerful magic. Most likely Valen had something to do with it but Blue would ask about it later if at all possible.

Setting

Characters Present

Character Portrait: Dorian Ursuul Character Portrait: Kiran, Prince of Ashkara Character Portrait: Xiao Jingshen Ananse Character Portrait: Arim Funar Character Portrait: Zexen Tiberius Elen Character Portrait: Moloch Markus
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#, as written by phoenixheart
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"You bring to light a very important factor that I overlooked King Arim. In the event that Iron is detected a fae will feel discomfort, I imagine they will also work alongside the border patrols of the kingdoms during times of inspections. If iron is detected the patrolmen will be alerted and the smuggler apprehended I assume. Once the fae is out of the presence of iron, he or she should be recover with little problem.ā€ The Father Superior said in reply to Arim.

Arim raised an eyebrow and inclined his head by way of accepting the Father Superior's suggestion. He kept his thoughts to himself on how many ways that could go wrong, depending on which side a man was to stand. Had Aada not been there, he probably would have spoken freely. He could almost feel her disapproval if he had said anything. The last thing he wanted was Aada giving him the cold shoulder for the rest of their visit. He hazarded a glance across the table to Aada. Their eyes met for a brief second before she dropped his gaze. Arim rolled his eyes. What had he done now?

"What can you tell me about your magical studies? I confess, I have a bit of talent myself."

Aada turned her attention to Moloch, "My magic? Well," she settled back in her seat, "in Cinnabar, magic runs among the noble houses. Mostly we learn from one another or through experimentation by ourselves. But politics gets involved. Certain families will only deal with others and even then they won't always tell each other everything. I mean, why give an opponent an equal chance? Unless you're royalty, then they're tripping over themselves to tutor you in magic. Finding the best becomes difficult, especially when most of them can do parlour tricks at best. I am mostly self taught. There are precious few with a talent for pyromagy, so I began teaching myself when I was competent in that discipline. A lot of my education came from books I managed to find. My brother's talent lies primarily with air, as did King Seth, a much more common talent in Cinnabar, so of course he had the best of Cinnabar's best training him. What of your talents, Your Majesty?"

Aada saw Amelia rise from her seat to join the Fae, who were speaking with the Princes of Ashkara. It would seem that Aada would have to speak to her friend later. For the time being, she returned her full attention to Moloch.

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The setting changes from The New World to The Republic of Khalidor

Characters Present

Character Portrait: Dorian Ursuul Character Portrait: Zexen Tiberius Elen Character Portrait: Father Superior The Blue Faery Character Portrait: Skandar, Prince of Ashkara
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#, as written by Roku Mushabuki
Dorian Ursuul

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ā€What a fine forge you have here!! I imagine you spend a lot of tie out here Dorian. Even in the cold of your country, this flame will keep you never lacking warmth as long as youā€™re within its embrace. I love blacksmith work!ā€ Dorian heard Zexen say as he walked over to the forge. He hadn't pecked Zexen as one interested in smithing. He rummaged through a trunk near the forge and pulled out some materials. "I've been working on creating a weapon of my own. Two years. The meisters have been creating a shifting enchantment for it and I've gathered the material. I'm missing a few key ingredients, but I'm sure that I'll come across them eventually. So far mithral, cold iron, and dragonbone is what I have." Dorian said.

He looked up at the sky. The sun was beginning to set, there wasn't too much time for prime light left. "How about we duel now?" Dorian asked Zexen. "We can choose our weapons from here." He pointed to the weapons rack. The general chose a small short sword as his weapon, nothing fancy. He was planning on dueling according to the old ways of his country. So Dorian took off his shoes and then the padding on his torso. Tradition stated that he would need to be naked when dueling, but that seemed very inappropriate for the situation.

The setting changes from The Republic of Khalidor to The New World

Setting

Characters Present

Character Portrait: Dorian Ursuul Character Portrait: Kiran, Prince of Ashkara Character Portrait: Xiao Jingshen Ananse Character Portrait: Arim Funar Character Portrait: Zexen Tiberius Elen Character Portrait: Moloch Markus
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#, as written by almostinsane
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"My magic? Well, in Cinnabar, magic runs among the noble houses. Mostly we learn from one another or through experimentation by ourselves. But politics gets involved. Certain families will only deal with others and even then they won't always tell each other everything. I mean, why give an opponent an equal chance? Unless you're royalty, then they're tripping over themselves to tutor you in magic. Finding the best becomes difficult, especially when most of them can do parlour tricks at best. I am mostly self taught. There are precious few with a talent for pyromagy, so I began teaching myself when I was competent in that discipline. A lot of my education came from books I managed to find. My brother's talent lies primarily with air, as did King Seth, a much more common talent in Cinnabar, so of course he had the best of Cinnabar's best training him. What of your talents, Your Majesty?"

"Forgive me, but that sounds like a waste," Moloch told Aada honestly, his hand absentmindedly stroking his beard. He frowned slightly at the inefficiency of the magical education available in Cinnabar. It sounded like any lowborn citizen of Drake taught at the Circle of Magi would know more than all but the most privileged of the Cinnabar.

"Your nobility sound undisciplined and short-sighted. Without a strong hand to keep them in line, they will tear your kingdom apart. I shudder to think of the accidents lowborn face with no Mages to teach the magical children born to them. As for me...."

He set his goblet down and held up his hands, producing a pair of flames, "I am also talented in pyromancy. It comes from the dragonblood that runs in my family. It gives me great gifts, chief among them fire and heat magic and resistance. It is difficult to burn me."

The setting changes from The New World to The Republic of Khalidor

Characters Present

Character Portrait: Dorian Ursuul Character Portrait: Zexen Tiberius Elen Character Portrait: Father Superior The Blue Faery Character Portrait: Skandar, Prince of Ashkara
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#, as written by masato22
ā–‰__Zexen Tiberius__Elen__ā–‰
Image


__Luin Elen/ Father Superior__
__(The Blue Faery)__
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Dorian rummaged through a trunk near the forge and pulled out some materials. "I've been working on creating a weapon of my own. Two years. The meisters have been creating a shifting enchantment for it and I've gathered the material. I'm missing a few key ingredients, but I'm sure that I'll come across them eventually. So far mithral, cold iron, and dragonbone is what I have." Dorian said.

Zexen looked at the materials gathered for the weapon. They were definitely the beginnings for a rare and fine weapon. Zexen could see it all begin to come together. ā€Perhaps there is something we could do to help you. If we know what materials you are seeking we may have them to give.ā€ Zexen said while examining the materials present. He turned toward Father Superior and continued, [b]ā€œFather Superior perhaps you have something of great magical value to contribute to the weapon? come have a look.ā€

Father Superior smiled gently and slowly shook his head. ā€œUnfortunately young one, Faeries cannot wield weapons of iron. I canā€™t examine the materials myself, not up close. However, I can possibly provide a magical item that may assist in the acquisition of an item you may need.ā€ Father Superior materialized his blue wand into his hands. He pointed the wand ahead of him, a blue flash occurred and gently faded. Before him floated a writing quill. ā€œThis is an enchanted quill. With it in your possession, focus on the item you wish to locate. Once you have a clear focus on the item touch the quill to parchment and a map leading you to the item will appear. You will have a few uses from it before it loses its enchantment. I hope it will be of some use to you.ā€

Zexen was inspired by Father Superiorā€™s use of magic. He really wished he could control his magic. Perhaps he was capable of similar feats. Zexen wondered if he trained under Father Superior would his ability to control his magic improve. He couldnā€™t ponder on it for too long. He noticed Dorianā€™s attention shift upward.

Dorian looked up at the sky the sun was beginning to set. "How about we duel now?" Dorian asked Zexen. "We can choose our weapons from here." He pointed to the weapons rack. The general chose a small short sword as his weapon.

Zexen nodded. He approached the weapons rack and looked over what was there to choose from. He picked up a small short sword much like the one Dorian held. He also saw a small circular shield. Zexen preferred to utilize a sword and shield in battle. ā€I shall spar using my standard combat setup, sword and shield. I hope that is acceptable?ā€ he said to Dorian as they approached the sparring grounds. ā€Iā€™m ready when you are Dorian.ā€ Zexen concluded after having removed his outer fancy cloak.

Characters Present

Character Portrait: Dorian Ursuul Character Portrait: Zexen Tiberius Elen Character Portrait: Father Superior The Blue Faery Character Portrait: Arkaelus Ursuul Character Portrait: Tenanye Ananse; Empress of Anansai Character Portrait: Skandar, Prince of Ashkara
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#, as written by Roku Mushabuki
Arkaelus Ursuul

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Arkaelus continued to drink his wine as the room began to quiet down. His cousin had parted the room to spar with neighboring prince. He sighed. It was bad enough that there were several people that needed to be talked to individually, but now Dorian wasn't going to help him. Perhaps his cousin could speak to Zexen about some issues that Arkaelus had been meaning to talk to Valen about.

"King Arkaelus" He turned his head to see that Tenanye was adressing him. "Do you mind joining me for a walk?" She asked with a graceful bow. "I could use a some fresh air." Putting his glass down, he took a deep breath and got up quickly. "Yes, some fresh air would be wonderful fight about now." He told her in reply. "How about I show you the garden?" He said, holding out his arm.

Dorian Ursuul

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Dorian appreciated how concerning Zexen and Father Superior were in his project. He still needed a few enchantments and very rare components. He planned on making a weapon that could take the form of any melee weapon and change it's composition to any material that he built into it. Such a weapon has taken years to pool resources into, mostly because he needed to search almost randomly for the supplies, but now there was a quill for it. That would make looking for gems much easier.

As the he and Zexen stood in the sparring circle, he looked over his opponent to try to find weaknesses in his stance. Alas he could find none. Zexen was clearly a skilled swordsmen just by his posture, while Dorian on the other hand, never being quite good with a sword, had many openings. ā€Iā€™m ready when you are Dorian.ā€ He began with a flurry of strikes and slashes with sheer strength supporting the attacks. He figured that if he could fatigue Zexen, the maybe he could win without pulling out a trump card.

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