Ithilia

A lean dark figure stepped into the vast city. Shrouds of darkness covered his body in the shape of a well tailored suit and top hat covering his eyes; for the figure was indeed a man. The head peace drifted from his head as a pale smooth hand rose from his waist and plucked it from its perch and with that the metaphorical veil of darkness was lifted. The face beneath was that of an excited Younge boy. His tousled black hair sweeping into his eyes as the hat which kept it at bay was removed allowing it to be set free and wreak havoc on his eye sight. His deep crimson eyes showed innocents and cheer which would be deceiving to all who thought of him as such. The corners of his smile threatened to reach his ears as he took his first look at the city of Ithilia.

Galian dashed through the immense towering civilization known as Ithilia laughing out loud. His joy for finally arriving after such a long journey was clear as the gem nestled in the hilt of his blade. His coat tails drifted behind him effortlessly and his fine shoes made a barley audible tapping sound as they met the cobbles stone walkways of the market. He turned a corner and sprinted down the next alleyway taking in as much as he could before he finished his journey. He came to a large sprinkling fountain sprouting crystal waters from its depths. Galian wasted no time in scooping up a handful and taking a long awaited gulp. He had been traveling for days and through the past couple days had been without water or food. A guard yelled at him to step away but his response was to sprint off again thirst quenched and spirits still held high.

A figure approached from the corners of Ithilia. The figure wore blood red armour and carried a spear with blades on both sides. The man behind the helmet smiled
"So this is the city of Ithilia... nice place isn't it pops" an animal figure appeared beside the man, it was the fox deity, or as Kouta called him, Horace.
"Indeed... are you sure you wish to do this Kouta? People have tried many times to combine the 5 nations... but all have failed, do you think you shal do any better?"
"Hmm... maybe... maybe not... i want there to be peace among us, not war... and what better way than to see the ruliong nation's heirs themselves... this is a once in a lifetime opputunity"
"So is everything else to you"
Kouta laughed "i guess you are right! anywho let's go in" with that Horace and Kouta continued to walk until they were in the city.

Announcement:

Welcome student to Ithilia Academy, School of the best of the best and Royalties. Over the course of the year, you will make friends and foes in preparation for The Grand Tournament. We wish you the best of luck. Please register and meet in the Grand Assembly for the initiation of the new semester. Please tell your name to the announcer before descending the staircase.
The announcement ran throughout the city as it buzzed with excitement. The whole place has a festive feel to it. Today, the Royal Four shall arrive in town.

~~~~~~~~

Aerobella~

Aerobella stepped down from her horse drawn and looked up to the sky. It was a clear day. She hugged Merucci closer to her chest as her bunny deity squirmed with displeasure.

“Stop! I’m a boy!!! A BOY!” Merucci kicked and pawed as he tried to get out of her grasp. “Stop treating me like a girl. Stop putting all this fluffy bows on me!”

“But you look so cute with them.” Aero replied as she walked through the stone walls of the school yard. This place was originally the castle for the central kingdom. A grand place this is. Gold and precious stones decorated the roofs and garden. Aerobella’s servants scrambled to unload her luggage as one maid took a rather big and well decorated box to her.

“Your Lady Grace, her Majesty the Queen had prepared this gown for you.” The girl said opening the package to reveal dazzling white gown.
Aerobella smiled as she took the note on top.

Dear Aerobella,
Like your name, you will be as beautiful as the summer Wind.
Best wishes,
Your Mother.

Without a second thought Aero took the gown and rushed to her room to try it on.

~~~~~~~

Rosetta~

“Personal Knight of the East Nation, Rosetta Roulette and her honorable deity Pro Patria!” the announcer said in a nasal formal voice as the redhead descended the staircase. She could feel eyes on her and she knew her deep crimson dress only accentuated her lush hair. She narrowed her eyes, giving the room a sultry look before continuing her descent.

Rose scanned the room, taking mental note of all those who are suspicious and those who could one day become an ally. No matter where or when, her duty as the Personal Knight comes first. Rose would not let anything be in her way of completing her tasks. ProPa beside her snarled at another deity, making the poor squirrel crying back to its master.

That scene made Rose smile a little. She had come so far. Personal Knight is a title she could get used to.

A lean figure walked out of a dark alleyway wearing casual street clothes and a great sword slung over his shoulder emanating a dark blue aura. He looks up into the cloudless blue sky. Then slowly walks down a street his clothes moving with the slight breeze of warm air. He looks around.
"So this is where my people used to rule ... and will rule again"
Then he laughed deeply with a voice that would shake the soul of the meek and empower the strong. The laugh echoes down the street, then fades into the distance. He stopped walking abruptly as a darkness seemed to form from the ground beside him. As is twisted and coiled around Shadow it whispered. The voice was that of a wise man, an innocent boy and a viscous warlord all as one. it, was the voice of deceit.
"It is time for me, us, our people to return this vast land to its rightful owners. What happens here will be written down in history books for ages. Children will read of this time in awe and some in fear. Now take your first step into history."
The midnight smoke swept from its perch on shadows shoulder and formed in the shape of a large wolf. The thin chains traced around its neck and coiled around its legs. The last hint of smoke still trailed off its body till it turned white and formed deep hypnotic swirls on its body. Shadow and the wolf walk down the street. The wolf's sharp claws grating against the the stone of the street.

“Personal Knight of the North Nation, Cassandra Gale and her deity Athena!"

Went the announcer to which Cassandra felt the burden of her nation's pride rest heavily on her shoulders...
Athena was carried on a shoulder too, keenly taking in the surroundings. Curled and immovable yet very much awake.
Cassandra descended the staircase in a femininely graceful manner with her thoughts focused on what was and what was to be..
"Sometimes I even pretend... I have wings" Athena spoke softly in barely a whisper to lighten the girl's mood.
Cassandra tilted her head at the armadillo as if saying "You must be joking" though her expression remained in such a serious state.

Smoothly, elegantly, Amira Herald slipped from the horse's back upon which she had been riding. Two bright blue eyes scanned carefully, with a guarded look within them. Against her own wishes, she had arrived in a dress of purest silk that her mother had bestowed upon her before her departure. It was a delicate blue to match her eyes and allowed her slender figure to be shown with the highest compliments to her curves. Her long hair was curled into tight ringlets that fell around her shoulders and down her back. Pursing her pink lips slightly, she whistled, a short sharp note. A rush of air blew across her face and moments later the feet of her deity hawk, or she preferred to call him Ventum, gripped her shoulder as he settled there. Glancing at him, she made a noise in the back of her throat, one of disgust. His piercing eyes focused on her and he clicked his beak impatiently, though she chose to ignore this. Taking the reins of the horse, she lead him forwards silently, her eyes continuing to scan her surroundings. Her stuff would have already arrived as it was sent before her by cart, though she had refused to arrive on anything but her horse. She didn't want to be there in the first place, so she would not accept her place here lightly. Although she understood it was necessary, she didn't like it. Already she was displeased with the place, but that was simply her bias.

"I don't like it," She muttered under her breath, as Ventum regarded her with cool eyes. He did not reply to her uttered words, merely glanced around as well. Instinctively, Amira's free hand was on her sword, which was sheathed and attached neatly to her belt. She never went anywhere without it and she wouldn't start now. "I didn't want to be here in the first place." She added, as the loud noise of her horse's hooves echoed around. She could see others milling around, or just arriving at the School themselves, but she averted her eyes quickly. It was not her wish to interact so freely with people that may easily have her Kingdom destroyed.

"It is your Father's wish that you attend this School Amira and you know it," Ventum told her, rubbing his beak against the side of her cheek as a sign of affection. She smiled slightly at the gesture, but her look soon turned stony again. Soon she would be permanently enrolled in the school where she didn't want to be. It was not going to be an enjoyable time on her part, but she hoped that it wouldn't be as bad as she first imagined.

"Just stay calm and try and enjoy yourself..." Ventum told her, as though he had read her mind. Muttering bitterly, she vaguely nodded her head in agreement with him. He always seemed to be able to tell what she was thinking or feeling and always her had advice. He was probably the best friend she could wish for.

Just as the annoncemt went across the city Kouta ad entered with Horace at his side. He walked to the staircase and said his name. Walking down the stairs he heard the man who had told his name shout
Rouge Knight, Kouta Hinigami and fox deity Horace Hinigami! Kouta looked around, then that someone was already down there, a women with a panther deity. He walked over and waved his right hand, clanking following as the gauntlet clanged against the rest of the armour. Kouta bowed, as did Horace, though he seemed to not be at ease with the panther
"Hello" a muffled voice sounded "name's Kouta... and you might be?"

Galian wandered into the school laughing out loud like that of a child entering a toy store for the first time. He ran to a wall finding seemingly invisible footholds and standing on top of a large hawk head meant to represent the western nation. From below one could see a large head of each main deity for each nation. He began to yell from the top of the head swinging on the beak his top hat somehow still resting sideways on the crown of his head. " Mr. Sylklaw here!" He dropped from the head nearly 50 feet up landing heavily on the ground and standing before spreading his arms out like an bird and ran off down a hallway. Galian was barley 18 but he looked much younger possibly 14 when he tried but he acted like he was 7. Immature and innocent. His deity seemed to take shape behind him in a puff of grey smoke as that of a young chickadee making small innocent chirps as it glided after him.

As the announcement rang through the city Shadow was entering the school with his deity. As he strolled down the stairs Shadow bellowed.
"Shadow Weylyn has arrived!"
Shadow reached the end of the stairs he noticed there was a large carved statue of each main deity head. He walked over to the wolf statue and admired his nation's deity. Shadow then took time to look at the other statues that surrounded the area. As shadow did his wolf deity made a deep vicious growl at the statues of the three that forced their nation underground. Then said with the combined voice of the warlord and the wise man,
"They will pay for what they did to our nation ... and i, we will cliam this land back for our nation"
Shadow replied in a noble but feirce voice with,
"i will do what has to be done"

Rune Serrile

One noble was announced to have arrived. Then another showed up. Then two walked out holding hands and chirping sweetly at each other. Many entered discreetly, wishing to avoid the attention of the assembled people. Rune couldn't blame them; sometimes it was just easier to not be noticed. And to be honest, it wasn't worth the effort for this poor smattering. After all, Rune was in the audience. Any party that had Rune it the audiance wasn't worth showing off for, or so Hebi tells him. He didn't know if she was being hateful, or if she really thought that; it was hard to distinguish between the two with her. There were a few lovely park tables set up on the sides of runway/redcarpet walk that the nobles took to head towards the school. Some of the smarter observers had brought food, and Rune and Hebi were sitting at the table with the observer and his girlfriend, eating sandwiches that had a hint of mustard. A good flavor, and one that he normally couldn't come by in the desert.

The people had been really nice, lax even, about letting them eat. The man who made the sandwiches didn't know Rune was a prince and Hebi was an evil snake spirit, they looked too shitty for that. Well, Rune looked shitty; Hebi looked tempting as ever (Don't try it, she bites). He had refused to dress up well, and was wearing the blue garb of Gerik's Tribe, the mercenary group that Rune had lived and fought with for several years. His hair looked like it could use a wash, and he was sure that ever inch of visable skin was smudged with sand and windburn. Hebi looked more proper, in a tiny white sun dress and a white parasol that only had enough material to shade her slightly. She looked tired though, with bags under her eyes from the strain of travel. It was her first time out of the desert in 100 years, and she had reminded him of that the whole way to Ithilia.

He watched some more nobles pass by, some the traditional fat and pompous kind and some the thin and radical kind. The later kind were more interesting conversation, but the former were much easier to manipulate. Hebi made a clucking sound with her teeth as the southern princess passed, the look in her eyes saying that she would love to take a bite out of that rabbit. She kept those thoughts to herself, for the benefit of their unknowning lunch buddies, but it had been quite some time since she had been able to hide her thoughts from him. Likewise for the other way around. So she knew exactly what thoughts passed through his mind as Rosetta stepped into the eye of the crowd, looking as beautiful as any of the noble ladies that had passed by before her.

When Rose had walked close enough to where Rune could get her attention without having to yell, he wolf-whistled at her and beckoned her over with a crooked finger and a smile that read I'm 11 years old and I just stole your cookies. Hebi snorted girlishly at the look on his face, and helped herself to more lemonade from a glass that was collecting water droplets in the afteroon heat. "Careful Rune, she'll bite too. Remember, the whole personal knight buisness is sketchy at best, so don't cross any lines, m'kay?" Years ago, Rune had shivered at the purr, or rather hiss, that served as an undertone to her otherwise alluring speech, and it still made him a bit uncomfortable when she was contradicting him or pointing out some fault. As it was, he just waved her off with his hand, the gesture pouring a thin line of sand onto the table from out of his sleeve. Hebi snickered again, and returned to her lemonade while watching the scene around her with wide, green eyes.

Galian was haveing the time of his life. His deity disapeared in a puff of smoke as he calmed down. His eyes however still showed the same excitment as befor when he was climbing the wall. His top hat sat tilted on his head and his caot tail drooped lazily at his side once agin not being forced to fallow behind since he stopped running. He watched as other members entered the vast hall one by one each with there own deity. His watched carefully and suddenly shock over took him. He did well to hide it though. He calmly walked behind a pillar and off to another hallway. There was no doubt about it. There standing beside a large black wolf circled in chains and smoke like lines was the current prince of the underground. Galina had his suspissions that his deity brother would come hunting for him but the suspissions had krept there way into reality. This game just became way more interesting fun and dangerous. The prince was not one to mess with. Galian exhaled deeply as he returned himself to his former personality putting on a flawless act as the young innocent teen once again. "Ok prince Weylyn time to meet your new best friend...your prey."

Galian sprinted around pillars weaving in and out of them before "accidentaly bumping into shadow. "uh...uh...uh..sorry your highness." galian gave a humbling bow so shadow couldn't see his eyes as he gave the black wolf a smile seamingly saying 'got some explaining to do later dontcha?' He stood straight saluteing the prince and stateing his name. "Sir Sylklaw at your service your highness. Free Lance Knihgt formerly of the western hawk nation now searching for a new alligance. I welcome you to Ithilia." Galian stepped out of the way allowing for him to pass. His hadn rested on his blade and his hat was removed from his head in respect. Welcome to my game Brother.

“Go. Without their heirs, the four nations would collapse in chaos together. Let there be anarchy.” As those ominous words fell, the shadows left the chamber.

~~~~~

Aerobella~

“That…that serpent just clucked at me! She’s looking at me as a piece of meat!” Merucci yelled and kicked.

Aerobella clamped her hands over his mouth and sighed. Merucci was never big on manners. Actually neither is Aero, she was spoiled rotten the moment she was born. However, her tutors taught her well enough to behave a least not that haughtily in front of others. Before Merucci could protest more, Aero stood up straighter and turned to the butler beside her. She mumbled something to him and waited.

The butler took a glass and a silver spoon from the table and clanked them together loudly. “May I have your attention please? Her Grace Aerobella Dimitri from the South would like to speak a few words.” With that he held out his hand to help the young Princess up to a chair.

Aero stood there and looked over the crowd. The reason her nation is still here today is because neither three of the nation would allow the other to take over the south, home to the Life Fruits. If one of the three were to obtain her home, they would automatically gain an immense advantage. Dictating the supply of Life Fruit meant dictating the four nations. However the south nation cannot, its army is not strong enough, nor does it have enough capital in its treasury to build such a force. If it wasn’t for the rabbit’s role as the balance between the three powers, Aero would shiver at the thought of what could have become of them. She lightly cleared her throat and held out her hand.

“honourable Royalties and Knights. It is the South’s wish that we would have a wonderful year in preparation for the tournament. To show our sincerity, this city supply of Life Fruit would be taken care of by the Dimitri House. Enjoy.” As her words fell, doors around the room swung open as men in tux brought in silver trays after trays of decorated Life Fruit. Deities around the room scrambled to the delicious smell. After all, though deities eat human fruits, their actual nourishment is the fruits alone. The room buzzed as music started once more.

However, the joyful tone did not stay long. Before the young Princess could step down from the high spot, Void magic suddenly filled the room. The shadows turned to shady figures as one draws a knife and held it against Aero’s neck. Three others did the same as they somehow appeared right behind the other Royal Four’s Prince and Princess. The room was deafening slient.

~~~~~

Rosetta~


"Hello, name's Kouta... and you might be?" The sound startled Rosetta a bit; her hand went straight to the hilt of her sword. She was concentrating hard on memorizing each person’s face. Knowing the field is the key to winning a battle. She looked towards the direction the voice came from and only after she decided this Kouta person was of no harm did she loosen her grip on her weapon.

“Rosetta Roulette from the Great Eastern Lands. Enchanted to be at your presence.” She bowed back as ProPa circled the two, examining this new person from front and back. She flipped her hair to one side with her hand and kept one of her eyes on the Prince.

Suddenly there was a lot of commotion. The Southern Princess had spoke about something or other as Rose tensed up. Too much focus was on the girl and too less on security. As if answering her worry, the next moment a chilled air ran thru the room as darkness seeped in. Rose drawn her sword and in a flash she was at her Prince’s side, her weapon slashed through the black figure holding the knife. To her surprise, the sword went through yet hit nothing. The figure dissipated in its mid-region when the blade went through and reconsolidated as the blade passed.

ProPatria Slashed and paw to no avail as the figures held the four Straight Descents from the original Five Ruling Deities as hostage.

Marcus walked through Ithinia, steadily making his way to the school. He was clothed with the clothes of someone far less esteemed. He was not the showy type. His natural appearance, as always, appeared striking. That did not mean he had to draw more attention to himself than necessary. He made his way to the school with his white tiger by his side. As they approached, his deity turned into a tiny tiger that lay inside of his pocket. Marcus ran his hands through his hair a bit nervously, knowing his Kingdom's future could depend on what he decided to do here.

He carried daggers that were carefully concealed. He also would have some of his other weapons sneakily delivered. He didn't want to stand out at this moment, but there was no way he would stay with other-kingdom royalty without weapons to defend himself. Marcus stopped outside of the school and stared, pausing to think about the weight on his shoulders and what he would encounter in this place.

He entered the School and saw hell break loose. He sensed Void magic and saw shadowy figures attack three people, who had a royal air about them. Unlike himself, the other people in this room were not all dressed casually. He summoned some Aether magic, ready to defend himself and others. These shadowy figures were not physical... and they sensed of Void magic, as well. He aimed his magic at the shadowy figures. One knight seemed to have already tried to attack a shadowy figure, but to no avail. He favored his fire element, but felt that Aether was more likely to dispel these creations. He gave up trying to blend in, deciding protecting others was more important. One of the shadowy figures attacked him, and he aimed his magic at it.

Amira had entered the School, after leaving her horse in the stables. Ventum swayed on her shoulder as they were announced to the rest of those already gathered in the school. Sweeping her long hair over her shoulder, she merely nodded, before taking a seat far away from anyone else, watching with cautious bright blue eyes. It would appear that every one of the Nations had sent a Prince and Princess and they were each gathered with a deity. Already she could see a rabbit and a wolf. Frowning, she glanced at her hawk, who had been scanning the room as well, he gave her a knowing look. She shrugged, nearly unsettling him from her shoulder and returned to her gazing. Amira had always been a curious person and it was better that she scoped out the room, should she need an exit immediately. She noted the doors that led out of the room and any possible escape routes that she may need in an emergency. Though she highly doubted that they would be attacked in such a situation, it never hurt to know your surroundings.

When the Southern Princess stood up to say a few words, she turned her head to watch her. Raising her eyebrows, she noted the very innocent look about the young girl. It was after her words, when she was seated that the trouble began. A cold chill crept up her spine and she shivered, closing her eyes for a moment. Amira felt the cold of a blade against her neck. On her shoulder Ventum made a loud noise, taking flight quickly. Instantly, she made to grab her sword, but seconds too late she realised that a sword would be no good against a shadow. Cursing, she hissed under her breath. A loud caw from above was followed by the flapping of wings as Ventum made to attack the shadow. In that instant, Amira rolled from its grip. When she stood to face the shadow, she raised her useless sword. It was holding her deity securing and she faltered in her movements, her eyes widening.

"Please, don't harm him," She whispered, showing her only real weakness. The shadow seemed to make a noise, almost like a laugh. "Don't harm him!" Her words were furious and her eyes glinted dangerously. She raised her hand, without really realising what she was doing. A blast of bright light flew from her palm, warming her, comforting her fear. It shot straight at the shadowy figure who seemed to take fright and disappeared at the use of the light. Ventum fell to the floor with a thump. Sheathing her sword, she released a breath she didn't realise she had been holding. Skidding to his side, she scooped him up, chewing her bottom lip. He looked to be alright.

"I'm fine Princess," He told her, nipping her fingers affectionately. She smiled down at him, but it was soon to fade. What had she just done? And how had she managed to fend off that shadow? It had been magic, she was sure of it. Like the magic that had saved her from that fall all those years ago. Looking around, she could see a casually dressed man fighting against the shadows as well, he seemed to be producing the same light at she had. At a distance she couldn't see his face, only that he appeared so far to be the only one producing magic. Placing Ventum on her shoulder again, she tore across the Hall towards him, ducking a shadow as she did. A spark of light came from her hand again and she frowned, though there was no more signs of any magic.

Coming to a halt beside the man who was fighting a shadow, she raised her own hands. "Come on... She thought to herself, desperately. She needed to see some signs of magic. The people in here needed protecting. At the thought, a ball of pure light flew from them, giving her the warm sensation as it had before. As her light collided with the shadowy figure, his did as well. She closed her eyes against the sudden flash, though when she opened them the shadow had gone.

"Please, explain to me what I just did," She said, panting slightly, looking at Marcus. "Because I have absolutely no idea..."

As Rosetta introduced herself to him, Kouta smiled. Then, suddenly, someone made a speech about a good year, he looked around as the life fruits came in and wacthed as Horace ran over to them, he had always had a love of the fruits and had always made Kouta stop and get some when they were near any. Then the room became dark as it was filled with void magic and 4 shadows appearded. He smiled
"Horace!"
"I get it!" Horace shouted back as he ran over and stood by Kouta "do it like i showed you"
"Got it!" Kouta said as he started drawing rocks from the ground, making them suspend in the air and move in a graceful dance, eventually combining into a heavy boulder which he threw at some of the shadows who were threatening the royalty, sending two sprilling towards a wall.

Rune Serrile

Rune slumped grumpily in his chair, waiting on Rose to finish talking with the new guy and make her way over to him. Rune tends to be rather impatient, so as he watched the two exchange pleasentries, he drummed his fingers on the table. Hebi's attention was brought back to rabbit as he complained to his master about her. She glared at the deity, the corners of her mouth twitching up in an evil grin as she watched him squirm, it only made him look more delicious. She quickly took a long swig of lemonade to stop herself from salivating too hard, but never let her eyes off the fluffball. Which is why she was surprised when the southern princess suddenly stood up to make a speech.

“Honourable Royalties and Knights. It is the South’s wish that we would have a wonderful year in preparation for the tournament. To show our sincerity, this city supply of Life Fruit would be taken care of by the Dimitri House. Enjoy.”

As if from some magical dream, several men dressed in nice coats floated around the room carrying silver trays full of the fruit. They twirled around the tables, letting each deity take a handful. Run raised his eye at the bunny princess, looking at her as if he was noticing her for the first time; and in truth, it was the first time he was trying to actually 'see' her, and not just run his eyes over the outside. To pull something like this off at the very start...what's she trying to do, get on the good side of all the deities in the room? Sadly, Hebi's judgement was clouded as soon as the fruit came out. One of her hands shout out, gripping Rune by the forearm and squeezing hard, while her eyes ran around the room trying to pick out the closest tray of fruit. Rune couldn't resist grinning at her and laughing a bit, because this time she didn't take a swig of lemonade. Her mouth was parted open slightly, and a drip of drool rolled off her lips and down her chin. Still laughing, he used his thumb to wipe the trail of spit off her as her eyes narrowed at him, her cheeks suddenly blooming a bright pinkish red. She snapped her mouth shut, and looked like she was about to slap him when a man with a tray of fruit walked in front of them. Hebi instantly switched attitudes, her face suddenly breaking out in a happy smile as she fed on the fruit and mewling happily. Rune just shook his head at the absurdity of her complete 180, watching her clear the poor man's whole tray clean.

Everyone fell silent as the room suddenly chilled, the light of the sun dimming slightly with the strain of void magic. And then there were ghosts. Quite a few, spread out amongst the tables, holding knives up against their hostage's throat. He quickly noticed that all the hostages were princes and princesses, but only had enough time to turn his head to face Hebi before he felt something sharp and very, very cold press against his throat. He gulped slightly, feeling the cold press a bit harder on his neck as he did, and raised his eye to look at the sadow. From far away, they had looked scary; from up close, they looked bloody intimidating with their blank, hooded faces and bright red, demonic eyes. Classy. At least they put style into making these ghosts. The couple with the sandwiches looked from the shadown to him, and back again, then again. They screamed. They ran.

He grinned weakly at Rose as she ran up to them, cutting the shadow through with a sword and doing absolutely nothing but tick the shadow off. Darting his eyes up to the red head's, he winked slightly before turning his head (in amazingly slow, short turns to avoid the press of the biting cold) to look at Hebi. She looked calm and relaxed, but he could see the tightness in her neck, legs, and side that betrayed her. Hebi had a nasty habit of never appearing upset, even when she was, which allowed her to pounce on some foes. He grinned at her, extending his hand out towards her. The ghost must not have considered such a gesture a threat, but that was a mistake on his part. Hebi locked her pinky around his in the classic 'pinky promise' pose, and he fealt their bodies meld together around their joined hands. He sighed happily at the feeling of their connection, the leaned his head back to look at the shadow's face and drawing a thin line of blood on his neck. He grinned at the shadow, and then blew on him. The breath was gentle at first, but it picked up speed and force until it looked like it was hurting the shadow, while Rune's face didn't appear to strain any harder than he did with the gentle breath. The sound the air made was unnatural, much louder than it should have been. The shadow staggered backwards, going stiff at first before he went stock-still and hardening into rock. Rune let go of the breath with a slight wheezing sound, laughing at the now frozen shadow.

He turned his head towards Rose and winked at her again. "Now you can kill it," he said happily as he turned to look at Hebi again. Somehow, she had found another plate of fruit, and was eating bit by bit with one hand as the other one stayed joined with his. He chuckled at her, and raised her free hand to his lips and kissed the back of her hand. The corners of her lips flicked upward slightly, and her cheeks got a little pinker as she put another ripe piece of fruit in her mouth.

Galain drew out his blade as soon as the void was created. Darkness and hopelessness filled the room which drank at Galain's soul He drew out his blade in hunger for something to drive it into. He thrust the tip of the thin blade through the rib cage of one of the shadows which was holding the shadow (oh the irony). As the blade found no hold on the shadows being he unleashed a pulse of Aether into his blade augmenting its power and tearing the shadows from its perch on the princes shoulder. He then drove the blade behind his head and brought it down swiftly on the shadows skull bifurcating it and releasing his hunters bonds allowing him and his own void magic to wreak havoc on the attackers. "now your highness would you mind teaching these pathetic excuses for attackers how the void magic of the central nation?"

Shadow was suddenly trapped by a void shadow. He couldn't get out or control any void magic. Then Galain severed the void bonds that held Shadow.
"Thank you, Sir Sylklaw, and now, for some real void magic"
Then Shadow drew his hands together creating a darkness between them. As the darkness grew between his hand the shadows seemed to draw nearer to Shadow. Shadow then thrust the darkness that was between his hands at the ground sending out a wave of magic that turned the shadows to a physical form. Then Shadow grasped the handle of his great sword, unsheathed it from over his shoulder, and with one swift strike he cut one of the shadows in half.

Rosetta~

Rose pouted unconsciously. SHE was supposed to be the personal knight, yet she had failed at her duty. She swung her sword swiftly and with ease at the frozen figure. Only after she heard the satisfying shatter of ice on the marble floor did she feel better. She sheathed her sword and knelt before her Prince.

“Your highness, I have failed you.” She bowed down and took his hand as she looked up at him, unaware that her dress’ loose fitting top is revealing a little too much. “Please punish me for my failure. I do not deserve the title you have bestowed upon me.” ProPatria looks down as well. His tail drooped and his eyes lost that proud glimmer of wicked mischief. He put his paws on his mistress’ skirt and lay down by her side as if to comfort her. The girl, though young, was very serious.

“I am not fit to…” Before Rose could finish her sentence a yelp of pain rang through the halls.

Aerobella~

Merucci struggled out of his Princess’ nervous hold and held on to the leg of a shadow, it seems they are made of same material as deities, evaporatable but also able to consolidate in firm being. It is at times like this when he hates his small size. Why couldn’t be an elephant or something and just stomp on all of them. He remembered that last time something like this happened; he was also powerless to do anything. That time, Princess was in bed ill for over a month. She, a sheltered little girl, had already been through too much. Merucci have to save her this time. He is her deity, as useless as he is. As the shadowy apparition kicked and swung his leg, the white rabbit just held on as tight as he could.

Aerobella’s heart sped, racing as fast as a rabbit. The scene felt so familiar. She felt her body tense up from the tip of her toes to veins in her tender neck. The tension allowed for something within her to release and sparks of energy began to crackle out of her hand. Right as the pressure built and the gather energy was about to explode, some inside the Princess snapped as she cried out in pain. Tears welled up from the pain as she struggled to keep standing. It felt as if the energy had exploded inside of her. Without any strength left to fight off the phantom, Aero fell weakly against it as it wrapped her in the darkness and vanished.

“1 out of 5, we shall get them all.”

Kouta heard the cry of pain from one of the royalites, it was one of the girls, Aero if he had remembered his lessons from Horace correctly
"We gotta help here Horace!" he shouted, running towards the shadow that had taken Aero.
"You and your habits.. fine" with that Horace ran along side Kouta, Kouta's armour clanking and Horace growling as he bit down on the shadow, stopping it in it's tracks "now" he mumbled
"Right!" with that Kouta drew on his earth powers and formed sharp rocks on his right arm, creating a spiky fist. He ran towards the shadow and then, with Horace holding the shadow's head up, gave him an uppercut. There was a sickening crack and then the shadow fell limp, dissepearing. He turned around and shouted to the others "all knights protect the royalty! We can't let these shadows take them! Start using magic!"

[Edit: Sorry, ignore this. It posted twice for some reason.]

Rune Serrile

Rune turned his attention away from Hebi, although he kept his hand wrapped up in hers, when he heard the shattering sound of the shadow. He used his free hand to make an 'L' shape over his forehead, and stuck his tounge out childishly at the crumbly remains as the dissolved into mist (the harmless, not evil kind). A sense of satisfaction spread through him, making the thin slice on his neck quit stinging. He was shaken slightly when he felt his free hand being taken into another's, Rose's. Her hand was warm and a bit calloused from her line of work. He liked the feel of them, noting instantly the sharp contrast to Hebi's smal, soft, and cool hand in his other. He heard the fabric of Rose's dress shift slightly as she bowed down before him, lowering her head as ProPatria did.

“Your highness, I have failed you.”

He shook his head, a bit amused, and looked down about to tell her to raised her head. He hadn't meant to see, he had darted his eyes down to her head to look at her, but his eyes caught on a bit of skin a bit lower. He lowerd his eyes to see what it was, out of natural habit, and was greated not by a bit of skin, but a lot of it. A lot of nice, appealing skin. The skin of Rose's chest. Her dress had been a bit low cut to start with, but it had looked good and classy on her; now he saw that the top was a bit loose, and from this angle he could see a lot more of her than she probably would care to show him. Although Rose had what was considered a man's job by many, she was not masculine at all in her appearance. She was very beautiful, with quite a feminine body that was only enhanced by the dress; back in the day of his great-grandfather, the people would have called her a 'Sabaku no hana', a 'Desert Flower'. Althought it may not have been proper of him to, he had, as they say, checked her out more than once, but he had never seen her in such a compromising view before. He couldn't tell for sure, but he was pretty sure he blushed.

“Please punish me for my failure. I do not deserve the title you have bestowed upon me."

After the momentary distraction caused by his wandering eyes, he pulled his hand from out of her grasp and held it above the sex-SAD (Sad, I meant sad...) looking girl. She cringed, thinking that he must have been about to punish her, but he just patted her on the head. After patting her like a dad would pat his kid for a minute, he made her look up at him so she could see the jokey smile on his face. He picked up a few chunks of fruit off of Hebi's platter and held them out for ProPat to eat, earning him a disapproving hiss from his familiar. He rolled his eyes so that only Rose could see, and stuck his tounge out at her with a chuckle. "Come on Rosey, you didn't do anything wrong. I just magick'd him first. That's not you-" A high pitched scream cut him off, and with an icy drop of dread in his chest, he realized he knew the voice. It was the same voice that had offered peace and trays of fruit eariler, only now twisted and distorted in pain. The sound made Rune cringe.

Everyone, even the shadows, stood still for a terrible moment as Aerobella's scream died, being sucked into the darkness along with her, as if it was a physical part of her. The shadows recovered first, the few remaining going back to their assault only to be countered again as those defending the royalty recovered too. The shadows wouldn't be beat thought, as a fresh wave of them stepped into life on the aisle and scattered amongst the crowd.

"All knights protect the royalty! We can't let these shadows take them! Start using magic!"

Rune didn't know where the voice came from or who it belonged to, but it had the right idea. He lifted Rose up from the ground as he and Hebi stood up, quickly helped her get hold of her weapon, and then turned to face the onslaught of ghosts. "You heard him, right Rose? Let's save some Royals, 'kay?" He sidestepped in front of his knight, drawing Hebi to his side and wrapping his arm around hers, their fingers threading together with a crackle of emerald energy. She leaned against him some, face set in determination as she let her magic flow into him. Rune pulled his sword from its sheathe, glad for the familiar weight of his weapon. The silverish blade started to glow a venomous color as Hebi's magic flowed into it, and he raised it overhead. He brought the sword down in a quick downward slash, cutting through the air and releasing the magic. The sharp blast of wind that flew from his sword sped towards some shadows, leaving a wire thin cut in the ground as it flowed, the slashed through the dark mass. Three or four of the offending creatures were cut into varying sized halves. The same smile that he always wore when killing bandits floated back onto his face as his sword felled another bunch of shadows. This was going well, and Hebi hadn't killed a single one yet. If she didn't act fast, he'd beat her for the first time ever (the two played a game when fighting large crowds of enemies, seeing who could kill the most. So far, Hebi has won every competition by being far more skilled with her own magic than Rune is). As soon as he finished that thought, Hebi drew a circle of light in the air in front of her, and an actual circle of green energy formed around a mob of probably a dozen shadows. With a flick of her wrist, the group was decapitated by scissoring wind. He shook his head. "Bitch". "Bite me". "That's your job". "Hah, funny".

Galain watched as the desert nobel began to decimate many shadows along wiht his deity partner. His demeaner dropped form cheerful to grave fear for the lives of the desert nation as a blade of wind knicked his arm. "Try to be alittle smarter will you? If you just start blasting away like that youll be a bigger threat to the other nobels and knights than these damn excuses for opponents are." Galain drove his blade elegantly through the chset of another shadow sending it back to where ever it came from. He then spun around meeting another shadows claw with his buckler which apeared form inside his jacket. He knocked the claw away with his blade then drove the small wrist sheild down ontop of the shadows head forceing a spike of steel to erupt from it useing some minor earth magic. He was never the magical type so he ould only do small spells with certain elements but when it came to void magic he would do some serious damage the key was hideing it from the others. He parried a second sblow headed for the central prince and Galains hunter tapping ti away effortlessly then danceing to Shadow's side warding off any other figures that dare come near. His training with a blade gave him the speed and swiftness he needed to ward off any blows and occasionaly he would dispatch a few of the foes. "Priority should be to get the nobels out of here anyone got any bright idea's."

Areobella~

Dark, it was so dark that the void blinds. Aerobella felt as if she is free floating, free from her worldly body. It was a struggle to once again recollect herself, for her senses to return to her. The feeling of her soul being free, out there, away from pain, sorrow and fear… the feeling was euphoric. It was a sharp contrast from the moment when all of her five senses returned to her all at once. Pain, backbreaking, ear rattling, eye-stinging pain. Her only comfort is the howling wind that seemed to scream out her agony. No…It wasn’t the screams of pain that the wind blows, but moans, moans of lovers in their highest peak of intimacy and behind this seductive echo there was something else. Something that rings through the loudness. It sounds like the sharp ting of silver hitting silver, rhythmic as if the backbeat to the erotic song…water.At recognition of the cool liquid, Aero’s eyes shot open.

Her throat was on fire and she craved for a drink more so than she craves her next breath. “Water…” She managed to say raspily, half expecting a maid to rush to her side with a glass of the liquid that sate her seeming unquenchable thirst. However, there was no such thing. Instead, she was greeted by the cold stares of a shadow. His eyes are a gold color and hold a terrible wisdom that can bring out the evil in anyone and everyone. Aerobella shivered from either the fear that those stares would pierce through her inner soul, or from the cold that is gnawing away at her toes or from the agony of her insides, she doesn’t know nor can distinguish. She just know this isn’t a safe place to be.

“I presume you know the story of the Royal ….Five originally wasn’t is?...how they acquired the kingdom?” The apparition paused and waited her for her answer. Getting none, his eyes suddenly shot a furious red. “Answer me girl!”

Void magic was blown at Aero as her arms that have been holding her up trembled and buckled. The cold stone floor met her body with no mercy, bruising her over the bruises from her earlier mistreatment. “Y-Yesss…” Aero replied and after seeing no movement from the figure she continued. “The five who saved the great lands from Misery, the evil that gives woes to all of the lands. The Tiger who held the Sword of Strength, the Snake who held the Scepter of Intelligence, The Wolf who held the Dagger of Loyalty, the Hawk who held the Arrow of Bravery and the Rabbit who held the Mace of Harmony, together they traveled beyond the Seven Gates to find the hiding place of Misery. After an epic battle they sealed the Evil at the center of the Lands only could be opened with the weapons they held and their blood, thus trapping Misery for eternity to repent for what he has done.”

“Very good, you have done your lessons well child. Now, lead me to the Mace.” The shadow replied with venom dripping from his sickly sweet mocking tone.
“I…I don’t know where the Mace is, mmy ancestors hid…” Before she could finish her sentence, shadows flew at her and in an instant a new sharper pain ran from nape of her neck the center of her chest, right in between her breast. Then once again, bliss of nothingness embraced her.

“Take her back to her room. We need her to lead us to the Mace and get the other three weapons.” The shadow said as he twirled a gold, jeweled dagger. He remember the war 100 years ago, within the chaos he had obtain one out of the five, just four more before he will be free. The other ghostly figure bowed and disappeared with the princess back to her room.

Rosette~

She was thankful for his mercy, which only made her admire him more. Rose envied the relationship the Deity has with the Prince. She wants to act freely and bickers at her will the man. Then, she scolded herself inwardly. She was his personal knight. She shouldn’t be having girlish thoughts as those. Crushing on the one she have to protect would cloud her judgment and put both of them in danger. She watched as the Prince fights off the shadows and before she could fall back into her little fan-girl stage again, she unsheathed her sword once more to join in the fight. In battle, she loses herself and becomes one with the flow of power and agility, an emotional dance.

ProPatria, after gulping down the fruits that the Prince had offer, also joined in with the fight, knocking and slashing with magic. It has been awhile since he had enjoyed a heated fight. His lean muscles strained and compressed with ease and grace. Maybe it is time…the Prince is now a wonderfully grown up and mature young man… the time is near for him to receive what is rightfully his…

Rosetta knew what ProPa is thinking. She agrees. Her family had kept the Royalty’s Scepter safe since her family had decided 100 years ago that the king in the position was unfit to rule. They had kept it through the revolution against the heretics. Now, in her heart, Rose knew that this was the true prince for her homeland. His mercy, grace, courage and intelligence, she could see so very clear. Tonight, tonight she shall re-crown him once again as she bestows upon him the Nation’s Treasure his true ancestors had held so long ago. Her thoughts wandered as she slashed through another figure; thankfully they seemed to have stopped regenerating.

“We found the princess!” the cry filled the room as guards with Dog Deities filled the room. “Students please return to your room. The city guards shall take care of the rest. Tomorrow classes shall start after breakfast.” People began to rush out the assembly, pushing and without order.
Rose felt herself being carried away by the sea of students. “Meet me in my room tonight!” Rose yelled to the Prince. “My room is next to yours and connected by the door inside your closet!.” With that she lost the sight of him.

Marcus was fighting the shadow demons with his powers, violently making sure that the shadows in the room did not harm those around him. He did tire a bit. Coming from the strongest Kingdom, he was still only mortal. He could fight hard but not forever. He fought the shadow near him and glanced up as Amira came over to him. Together, they defeated the shadow. He smiled and thanked her for her assistance, "I am grateful for your help." She appeared to be one of the other royals here.

"Well, you used magic. Your deity gives you that power." He paused and glanced at his tiger, who, in the midst of battle, had turned to its full size. "I am unaware of how much you know, but there are different types of magic you can harness. Aether, fire, water, air, earth...and Void, which is forbidden to use." He loved these powers, this magic. He had been training with them for a long time... He found it odd that she had just learned of her abilities. He supposed the different princes and princesses may have grew up very differently than he had.

"I am Marcus of the Northern Kingdom. I am delighted to meet your acquaintance." He bowed to her. He was a prince, yes, but he could sense the royal air about her. He was also taught to be polite. He waited for a response, but then, there was an announcement. "To our rooms..." He wanted to perhaps speak with the other future monarchs, but was nearly swept away in a tide of people. "I will see you later, most likely." He dipped his head and went around the crowd of people, not wanting to be swept away.

His tiger, Theron, cleared a path for him amidst the people. He followed it closely, both of them white-haired and icy-eyed. Their powerful frames were not swept away as together they went to Marcus's room. He would probably not be able to sleep easily. He would definitely think. He was ambitious, yes. It would be great if he could seize more power and resources for his Kingdom here...Get to know the weaknesses of the other Kingdoms. He would treat them well, of course. He would just like to expand and have his Kingdom's happiness secured. Unfair to others, but he cared for those he was close to and his people. Lost in thought, he made it to his room and entered.