Lorgaine

Two things haunted Corallium till this day. One, her childhood and two, her dreams. The problems of being half Mortal. Two halves of something that should never have come together.

The dark mires of Corallium's nightmares inhabited the trenches of her mind. She struggled against the pitch blackness that kept dragging her down with it's vicious piercing talons; bloodying her soft skin as it clawed into her flesh. She screamed at the top of her lungs but no sound could be heard.

However, her usual decent into darkness was halted when suddenly Coral was shocked awake by a large splash of water.

“Hello!”

Called a voice that boiled Corallium's blood instantly. She did not suffer fools in her domain, especially not the King of Fools when she was in such a foul state as she often was after one of her usual nightmares.

She stared at him with a slitted gaze for a moment, seething with furry. He would pay for defiling her sanctuary! . . . But her punishment came with a smile.

“Hello Katergaris . . .”

Coral greeted him with a pleasant expression as she slowly began to circle the Jester God who stood in the middle of her pool. Her graceful movements purposeful as she moved around him like a Shark cautiously eyeing it's prey. The dark crimson of her dress clinging and floating around her like a fitting Omen for her intent for the Trickster God.

She may have been more welcoming and receptive on another day but he had caught her at a really bad time.

Her roguish smile deepened as she stopped to face Katergaris and slowly stood up standing waist deep in the purest aqua; water dripping off of her gleaming skin and the top half of her soaked Saree draped diagonally across her stomach, over one slender shoulder.

“How kind of you to drop in.”

The malice Coral felt hidden by her sweet voice as her hand shot out and her fingers wrapped around the Jesters neck. Tightening, until his face turned red and he was gasping for breath.

“And that too, uninvited.” Corallium added in her still honeyed tone. “Did you think to cheer me up?”

Tutting playfully, she waved her other finger close to his face.

“It was a grave miscalculation on your part, dear fool.”

Katergaris hands clenched around her wrist trying to loosen her grip to no avail. She was much stronger and powerful then she appeared to the naked eye.

His destiny began to swirl and materialize in her mind.

“Death, Jester is always so close to you. Touch and go is it not?” Corallium questioned his struggling form. “Who knows when your next trick or prank will be your last?”

Her grip loosened around his throat although she still held on. Yet something more lethal took it's place as she pulled him closer. His face but a whisper away from hers as Corallium's grey gaze locked onto Katergaris, holding him in place, slowing his struggles as she lifted him higher.

“Just in case you're not around to see it with your own eyes . . . Here's a preview of the end days.”

It was her favored punishment. Not that she punished often, it was a rarity in and of itself. Corallium watched as Katergaris eyes glazed over, becoming a mirror of her thoughts and he saw what she saw.

Death. Blood. Fire. Unimaginable darkness. The pure terror filled screeches of Men and Gods alike . . . The end days, when no one was different and everyone was judged by the fires of finality.

His petrified shrieks filled the air and drifted up and out through the night sky. Why should she be the only one to scream? He should share apart of her nightmares . . . At least someone would hear his screams. Not that anyone would do anything about it.

Yet, what he saw was only a glimpse of the end. No one, God or Mortal could endure the whole . . . The way Corallium had to endure . . .

Realizing, it was quite enough for now and that his shrieks were beginning to give her a headache. Corallium slammed Katergaris down into the shallow water. She paid him little attention as he attempted to breath and right himself causing a stir in the waters as Coral moved back to the edge and sat down on a stone step and rested her arms across side.

Leisurely, taking a sip from one of her golden grails filled with sweet Wine. Her anger at his unasked for arrival dispelling.

“Pray. Stay awhile Katergaris.” She offered kindly as if she hadn't almost drove him mad with insanity with the images of truth that were meant for no man's eyes. “Dine, make merry. I can even have a room readied for you if you wish to stay the night.”

But before he could reply, Corallium added in a soft yet steely underlined tone, that did not dare to be defied.

“Alas, dear Jester.” Coral's stone cold regard pinned on the Immortal across from her. “Let me make one thing clear as day. Stay by all means but if word reaches my ears that one of your misplaced humors finds any of my people conveniently lost, mislaid or harmed in anyway, shape or form. Believe me Fool, it will be the last trick you play.”

The honey coated threat settled between the two for a short while until Corallium beamed innocently with sudden uncharacteristic joy as she grinned across at the taken aback Fool.

“Now, what say you old friend? . . . Do you stay?”

As she lead them deeper into the mysterious Sanctum, the numbing effects of the blood lust were wearing off. As sensation returned her body so did great pain. As she limped onward, arm extended out to the wall to support herself, she willed the doors to slam shut and lock themselves. It was clear they were here strictly on business. After some walking she lead them into a room that featured a rather but large table, a map, and a globe. Around the table were of course chairs and a plethora of books, some scattered pages that the occasional wish maiden would pick up and place atop a pile, and several ink wells and pens.

The Goddess stood over the table and the map's features all came to life. Mountains rose and rivers flowed freely off down the table (but the water disappeared into nothingness). Any Cities displayed on the map also popped up, showing everything that was going on behind their walls. The city in question was full of great panic. There were fires running rampant and the populace were being slaughtered in the streets by soldiers if not burned to death by the fire. Athena watched the events unfold as she addressed her brother Kelmor's question.

"I plan on killing Lord Revan... Now what are your thoughts on this, Lord Kelmor? Lord Sargon?".

Some Valkyries flew tp their Lady War with parchment, pen, and an ink will. Athena took them all and begun to write of the city's sacking by foreign forces and what lead up to this moment. Another set of wish maidens to her with a platter of salves, needles, and other instruments one would see a field surgeon carry with him. The Lady of war sighed and waved them off, she would endure the wounds till her guests were gone.

Athena's Halls

Sargon spoke first, this with a voice of concern "I would see you retrieve treatment of your wounds Lady Athena. You need not show your strength before me, I know of it already and I would not see you as weak for accepting aid from your Valkyries" he gestured to the ones leaving

Sargon smiled inward at the proposal given by Lady Athena, but his face showed little change "It is a bold proposal" Sargon walked around the map "My Orders have done battle both with the Orcs" gesturing to Temples dedicated to Sargon that had become bastions of defense against the Orc invaders "As well as my own agents fighting Revans in secret" Many of the gods knew this. Sargons agents as well as Revans had made few encounters, but those encounters ended in bloodshed on both sides. Sargons Rangers guarded and protected the Ancient forests of the North and towards the south. Many who worked towards Sargons undoing often than not found their death at the tip of an arrow when one wondered to close to the forests themselves. As well, the shadows of Lorgaines cities were filled with men and women whos duty was to protect the innocent, instead of placing a dagger upon their backs. Sargon looked to Athena "I would stand beside you if you fought against Lord Revan" he looked to Lord Kelmor "The Keeper of the Dead knows my reasons"

And as time progressess my kingdom grows.....

Katergaris wasn't expecting that, the images burned in his mind. It was very rare for him to feel any kind of fear, Ignorance is Bliss as they say. He usually didn't feel fear, whether it was from a low mental capacity in order to feel fear or whether it was just plain and simple ignorance but in that moment he felt completely alone and useless against Fate's painful embrace but before he knew it, he was plunged into the water and was struggling to breath. After hearing he sickeningly sweet voice, he stared at her and closed his eyes awhile before speaking to her.

The Trickster God's smile was not present but it needed to be and within a moments notice it re-appeared and Katergaris seemed like nothing had happened. "Corrallium, if any trick is to be my last then it is a requirement I have FUN with it." The Jester moved his head from side to side listening to the jingle of his hat. The Jester thought of her and smiled, she didn't seem very happy at all, she looked like she was smiling but she was really 'happy'. "I may stay awhile but not long enough cause you any trouble...So what's wrong Cor? May I offer my services to cheer you up?"

Katergaris literally lept from the pool, pulled his staff from seemingly no-where and balanced on it completely. "Who has two thumbs, is immortal and wants to help you?" Katergaris pointed at himself with his thumbs. "This guy!" The Trickster God was completely honest, he didn't have it in him to lie to a fellow God. He didn't think to, many think Katergaris as stupid or as a fool but he was a lot smarter than people have him credit for.

What other being would take it upon themselves to intrude of Fate herself? He doubted Revan Thanatos would even do that. Katergaris moved from that to thinking about who he could visit after Corallium throws him out. He didn't have any 'friends' to speak of.

“You could not cause me trouble if you tried. The only trouble you would be creating would be for yourself dear.”

Corallium said blankly in response to Katergaris' words. Yet, her mind was past his irritating presence now . . .

It was late, yes. But, let's face it, Corallium thought exasperatedly, she would be getting little peaceful sleep tonight. The nightmares had already presented themselves once tonight a sign that they would not be leaving her for another few days and then until the next month.

Her gaze far away as the fictitious smile still laced her lips.

“Thank you Katergaris but there is nothing you can say or do to help.”

There was nothing anybody could do to help her. Corallium mused decidedly as she suddenly raised onto her feet, water puddling down her as she turned and walked up the stone steps and behind the ornately patterned dressing screen that appeared out of nowhere on the far side of the room.

Why put it off for another time? She should just get it over and done with now. There was no time like the present. That, and the fact that she would not admit to herself . . . Corallium wanted to see how Revan fared after his brutal beating . . . To make sure he was all right . . .

Dear Moderator! What was this madness taking hold of her at this odd hour?! She knew exactly what she was doing . . . Putting her hand into the Lions mouth and not expecting to have it bitten off?!? What new low level of depravity was this? Yet, she could not resist . . . No! It was not that she could not resist. It was the fact that it was necessary. Yes, utterly necessary! She would not have his Assassin's roaming her Lands, defying her orders!

“I must be away, some urgent business calls me forth.”

She called out to Katergaris over the divide as she unwrapped the long yards of the soaked garment from around her waist and replaced it with a black long sleeved backless gown that flowed down to her feet and trailed behind her.

“Stay and enjoy yourself. I shall be back soon.”

---

Not long after, Corallium found herself stood in front of the largest Iron clad doors she had ever set eyes on with the symbolism’s of The God of Punishment, Vengeance, Justice & Fear depicted across them.

The outer of his domain, Corallium decided was less then appealing as a rather handsome woman materialized before her. Coral lifted a brow in slight interest. In fact, she had been quite surprised. Her decent up to the Astral Plane was much easier then she had heard it would be. She had little pause to ever come up here before. Yet, nothing had stood in her way as she had expected as was often described the perilous and impossible journey up to the Lord of Vengeance's abode.

How very strange . . .

The bountiful maiden looked on Corallium with displeasing eyes as she unraveled an unseemingly unending roll of parchment that spilled down and across the floor and began to read out one by one all of the evil deeds committed and injustices dealt out by The Goddess of Fate's hands.

“Hmm . . . I had forgotten all about that one.”

Coral interrupted with a pleasure filled smile, reminiscing on the memories of old as she listened awhile as the woman went on.

“But you know,” Coral added happily. “If that listless parchment is all of the Sins and injustices committed solely by myself in a long lifetime and if you intend to read them all then we could be hear for many a Millennia and then if you refuse to let me in I'm not going to be overjoyed obviously. I mean not that you can stop me from going in.” Corallium chuckled as the woman leveled a deadly gaze on her. “Because, we both know that before you can reach for that sword of yours, you'll be bleeding to death on the floor right here and I'm going to go in anyway . . . Don't make me kill you.”

She smiled sweetly as the maidens gaze grew colder. She had not expected the woman to give way but after a moments hesitation she bowed and the Iron doors opened . . .

Darkness and the vile stench of death filled the halls as Corallium was led into a large room that appeared to be the library . . . with blood dripping from the ceilings and dead bodies scattered across the floors.

“Dear Moderator, Revan! Just because you're the God of Vengeance doesn't mean you have to live like a savage.” She said out loud to herself as the frown on her pretty features deepened.

However, it soon became clear to her what had happened here as one of her legs brushed a corpse as she traversed her way into the room. His tempers had obviously not cooled when he had arrived home and which ever poor soul happen to come in his way met their undeserved execution at his hands.

Sighing, Corallium slumped down onto an ornate red velvet lined Divan by the cold enormous hearth. If she was to wait for him here, there would have to be a few dire changes. She would not sit in cold darkness surrounded by death! How unfitting! She should be insulted that his maid – the only one whom seemed to survive her Masters slaughter – should bring her to such a room.

It soon occurred to her though, that this room was probably the best of the worst. And with that she set to work. The bodies and the blood disappeared off the floors and the walls first. The heavy drapes flew open on the far side of the room to admit the Moons silvery light. The torches that lined the walls on both sides in between high bookshelves sparked to life and finally a tremendous roar filled the cozy chamber as the hearth blazed to life and instantaneously warmed her skin.

Corallium smiled proudly at her work as she lifted her feet off the ground and her curvacious form stretched across the Divan, the long skirts of her dark gown flowing to the floor. She could see there were two matching chairs on either side of the Divan circling the fireplace.

It was quite lovely . . . Majestic even. Corallium decided . . . When it wasn't covered in the flesh of deceased Mortals.

It was then she noticed the worrisome filled presence by her side . . . The maid.

“I-I don't th-think the Master will be too p-pleased with the changes.” The girl stammered out.

Corallium looked up into the tense face from where she lay bathed in the golden glow of the warm flames licking her skin.

“True, no doubt.” She smiled up. “Yet, I cannot find it within me to care. Now run along and inform your Master of my arrival.”

“W-who shall I say-”

“Never mind that.” Corallium cut her off with a wave of her hand. “Just inform Lord Justice he has company . . . Impatient company, that does not like to be kept waiting . . .”

He shook his head slowly as he listened to what his sister planned, and of course young Sargon would pledge himself to such folly.

"What you plan may be one path to right the balance but... The chaos at the heart of our brother is something we need to fix and not simply destroy. He was once a good man, who had only the best interest in mind. I believe that still to be true, and that it is his vision of how that is to be achieved which is clouded by darkness."

He held up his hands slowly and sighed before continuing, his cold empty eyes staring deep into Athena's and seeing the beginning of the same furor he could see in Revan. He looked away before lifting his hand towards Sargon as he spoke.

"I ask you, would his death bring you balance? Would knowing he is gone give you peace Sargon? Would that calm your anger at the world? I doubt it, simply your focus would be gone and that knowledge would eat at your heart till you became little more than another dark shadow haunting the corners of Lorgraine. It won't bring him back Sargon, one life taken will not restore another." He frowned for a moment, contemplating his next words.

"Revan must be dealt with Athena, but his death is a step too far without a fair judgement. For his downward spiral he must be made to see the consequences of what he has become and make recompense for that. I would help you to bring back the Revan we once knew. You both, as always shall have my counsel but you shall not have my help in his death. I'm sorry, but for good or ill the balance must be maintained. Even if at the cost of life itself." He gave them both a slow bow as his frown deepened, he could feel something amiss with the world as the toll of souls entering the grey gates stopped for a fraction of a moment. His frown tightened, his eyes closed and his fists clenched.

More undead were rising.

Sargon gazed turned towards Kelmor fully. Kelmors words caused the rage within his heart to burst and flourish like the waves of a great fire upon the forest itself.

One life for another...yes....it would bring me peace

Sargons grip tightened upon the hilt of his sword "I do not seek this for vengence Lord Kelmor" he touched the map his hand brushing the tops of the trees "Revan has fallen....if we can save him" he looked up "Then I would stay by that reasoning. We cannot allow the balance to shift so far as to invite utter chaos" Sargo starred him down "I am not as young and naive as so many immortals think I am" he moved towards the North, there many tiny individuals moved towards a single point. A great mountain range that streched into the sea itself. "What I do know is that his anger and hatred of Lorgaine must be stopped. If it is one thing I do know it is how to fight Lord Kelmor, and I chose to fight for the people of this world"

____________________________________________________________________________________________________

The man ran through the streets, shoving aside anyone who got in his way, a look of terror upon his face as if he had come to contact with a ghost. He pushed aside merchants, shop keepers, stableboys, men and women to get through.

"Out of the way!" he shoved another "Move!" He looked behind him, two figures, as black as shadows, moved in on him. He grabbed a stall and through it down. It caught across another blocking the two men. But they were quick, agile, and swift, one of them quickly dropped to one knee and lowered his body. He slid under the fallen stall only to push himself up to his feet and continue his chase. The other scaled the side of the wall without breaking stride, crossing over the stall adn joining his brother.

"Someone please help me" the man screamed as the two followed. Again he pulled down a stall in hopes of stalling them again. This time one simply bounded over the stall, came to a roll, and continued chase, his brother leaped over it, grabbing a beam and throwing himself onto the buildings ledge. As they reached the end of the street they entered the market square, the man looked behind to see the two figures gaining ground.....

*thud*

He had ran into a women, she was tall and toned, her eyes pierced into his soul, and she wore the armor of a sorceress "Please help me" he begged as the two figures slowed their speed approaching the sorceress and their prey. One held his hand to stop the brother a few feet from the sorceress "Please" begged the man again.

"What is his crime?" the sorceress asked

"Theft of the cities treasury" one of the men said

"Is this true?" she asked the man, but before he could answer her eyes locked into his soul and found the truth

"Was it him sister?" the other asked

"Sister?" The man looked between the two figures and the sorceress

"It was him" she tossed the man to the two figures "Collect our reward Dragonmiir and let us be on our way. Khazer make sure he hurries" she smiled

"Dont I always Khali" they laughed as they escorted the man to the city guard....

His wounds had been cleaned and dressed, his armor and clothing had been repaired and mended. Revan Thanatos stood in the darkness of his bed chamber staring at himself in the full length mirror as he clasped his cloak securely around himself. He was ready to depart. He would go to the source of all knowledge in existence. He would seek out the librarian and the information he possessed. If his plan was to work this was the first obstacle he needed to overcome. It was no secret the two gods were not on the greatest of terms. Revan saw Librus as little more than a over opinionated scribe and unfit to be called a god. Librus saw Revan as a cruel and violent brute whose only skill was bringing pain to those around him. Despite this tense relationship Revan would have to convince Librus to give him what he required, it was a necessity of paramount purpose.

Revan was ready to depart yet something gave him pause, some voice in the recesses of his mind. It was just a whisper, a word or two on the wind. A warning of his own voice to slow and think once more. To look around him and reconsider his choice of actions. The voice brought a smirk to the face of Revan, a chuckle of amusement along with it. Revan ran his hand through his thick hair as his chuckle softened to a low musing. Remorse... He didn't think he still felt that.

"Mi lord?..."

The meek voice quivered in fear. Revan turned slowly like a big cat turning to see a gazelle out in the open. Revan's only servant that had survived his return was a young human woman, little more than his slave she had hid in the kitchen when the killing started. Her Godly master knew she had been hiding yet cared little to go seek her out and so she survived. Now she stood in his doorway cowering in terror as she attempted to do her duty without being hacked to pieces like all the others.

"What is it child?"

"Y-you have a visitor."

Revan's eyebrow arched in curiosity as his gaze seemed to look passed the girl and out into the rest of his home. He could see the strands of fate bowing and flexing, ever changing as it swarmed around it's master. The strands, while unfathomable to Revan, were all too clear to the one who knew the fates of all things.

"So I do..."

Revan said more to himself than the girl. He stepped past her and she flinched as gasped expecting a fatal blow yet received none. She remained there pressed up against the door frame with her eyes squeezed shut and her body locked up in fright. When she finally opened them again Revan was gone, far down the hall and on his way to greet his guest. The girl gasped in utter sadness and terror as she slid down to the ground, nearly collapsing from fright. She wept then, emotion driving it along with fear as she yearned for the safety of her fathers home and the company of her brothers and sisters. Yet here she remained, in a hellish dream never to wake.

Lord Thanatos calmly strode into the room where his visitor waited. Casually lounging on his chair her seductive form was more than alluring it was down right sultry and Revan took a moment to let his gaze drift over her bountiful features before making his presence known.

"Come to see if I yet live Lady Fate?..."

The girl's cries filled Corallium's mind as she waited for Revan Thanatos. Poor child. Her Fate held more then a life of servitude and capture in a desolate domain as this. Something else added to her list of requests for the Lord Justice it seemed.

Sighing deeply, Corallium swept her long midnight curls over one shoulder as she lounged in the firelight. Things had to be brought up slowly with Revan. One could not simply just jump in and demand. That was a last resort. If you were foolish enough to do so then you would be instantly met by an impenetrable resolve and wall. She would have to lower his defences first . . . Make him see reason. No easy matter by far . . . Yet, she did not believe for a second that his heart was as cold and light less as he would like to have others believe.

The air sparked and crackled with change. His dark brooding presence filled the room and washed over Coral in thick black curling steam clouds. Her skin tingled with the knowledge of Revan's arrival; sensing his dark spirit before seeing him. He stood behind her seat, Corallium felt his lingering gaze upon her as she pretended not to notice him.

Let him look . . . Looking and having were two different things.

“Come to see if I yet live Lady Fate? . . .”

Revan's rich hoarse voice echoed in the high arch ceilinged room. Corallium's lips slowly curved as she lifted her gaze to meet the overpowering figure that now stood before her.

“Amongst other things . . .”

Corallium replied sweetly with a feline smile as she seductively slid up from her lounging position. Each move beguiling as she stood to face Revan. The soft pads of her fingertips brushed the rugged skin under his chin for a moment before her fingers held his jaw in a light grip.

“You're healing well.”

Coral stated softly, her pretty features turning serious as she examined his face by her gentle grasp.
The bleeding had stopped, the deep cuts and gashes were already closing up on their own accord. Only the scattered purple bruising indicated that something had damaged the skin.

Corallium's frown deepened. Until her heather grey eyes met Revan's intense glowing green gaze and her coy, playful grin returned to its rightful place and she teased him once more.

“A good look for you . . . no?”

Katergaris sat twiddling his thumbs. He was bored without company since Coral had left and no-one seemed to want to talk to him once they saw his outfit and realised who he was. The Trickster looked around the Bath House that he'd returned to but something unexpected happened. A blurred figure moved passed the God and he felt something connect to his face. A large red hand-shaped mark appeared on his face in no time. "The Boots of Naz'agboul!" The Trickster took in a deep breath. It was then that a devious plan hatched in his head. Running that fast was sure to make you hungry right?

Katergaris placed food in the outside near the castle placing signs all around the castle saying 'Free Food for Hungry Runners this way ->' The God stood above the food on the roof and waited. A large boulder placed dangerously on the edge. The plan was when the Mysterious Runner went to eat the food, Katergaris would push the boulder and SPLAT! The God would get his boots back. This was the best plan EVER! Katergaris waited and waited and waited and waited meanwhile the Runner was causing trouble in the castle but finally the Runner did visit the food. Katergaris pushed the boulder with all his might but no matter how hard he pushed the boulder just wouldn't budge how he got it on the roof he didn't know. The Runner ate the food in a flash and ran off to cause even more trouble.

The Trickster God jumped from the roof to inspect the now gone food. He scratched his head silently and looked up at the boulder, the tiny vibration from his jump caused it to move. A sad expression passed over his face as the shadow of the boulder grew larger and larger. Katergaris looked down as the boulder hit him, squashing him completely. Back to the drawing board.

Katergaris paced. He needed another idea....And he had it! The Trickster gathered supplies from around and began his brilliant even better plan! He grabbed his painting supplies and began his masterpiece. The God began painting and what he painted was wonderful, it was a corridor. He painted a realistic corridor, it looked so real you wanted to walk down it. Katergaris then added the last touch, him. He painted himself standing there completely defenseless. Now to wait. Katergaris hid and waited again, hearing the wave of destruction as The Runner ran, Kategaris watched hoping his plan would work. The Runner turned and looked at the corridor running at a tremendous speed towards the painted wall. The sheer speed of him should be enough to splatter him all over the corridor but something happened. Something never even heard of before. The Runner continued running and literally ran into the painting. Not splattering on the painting as expected but running into the corridor that didn't exist.

You could say anything you wanted about the Runner but they were definitely a follower of Katergaris. The God gritted his teeth and charged at the wall, if some stupid mortal could do it so could he! But alas, such a thing did not happen. Katergaris hit the wall with considerable force and fell backwards only to open his eyes to a wall painted with the message. "Better luck next time." Katergaris was going to get him. There was no doubt about it. He just hoped that The Runner didn't find any of his OTHER artifacts otherwise he'd be a real bother.

Athena took the time to close her eyes and let the duel replay in her head all the while she listened to her brothers speak. Revan had acted out of rage. A rage that had been absent in the past. She sighed and opened up her eyes.

"Sargon if you know my strength then you know I've endured worse for longer. Kelmor...Your right... If Revan can be restored then we must, however should he attempt to claim one of our lives, I cannot promise I'll stay my blade.".

She then returned to her work but then came Sargon and moved the map towards the north. These lands were foreign and had not been claimed by any save those who ventured out to them now. This caught Athena's curiousity for while the lands were alien they seemed familiar to her somehow. Lady War snapped her fingers and a Valkyrie appeared on the table.

"Fetch me those documents Librus sent not too long ago... Lord Sargon what are these lands and who are these people?".
___________________
The Exiled Prince
___________________

22 Men ventured into the foggy elven woods. The tunics they wore over their armor bore a black cross on a white background, the coat of arms for Novgard. Their armor was heavy, for they were all knights, and their helmets were quite odd. On some there were two wings (one on each side), others had what looked like the head of lions on top their bucket helmets, while others had horns. All these things were a common sight for Novgardian Knights, they were meant to intimidate their enemes and demoralize foes on the battlefield. But what were Norgardian Knights doing so far from their home? Following their Lord to the death! What else?

Infront of them was a certain Knight who walked infront of the others, leading them. He had wings on his helmet like the others but he was shorter and leaner. Not too far from him was a larger, rounder man. He was the only one who did wore wear armor but instead he wore the robes of a learned mage. He seemed ancient but he managed to keep up with the leader of the group.

"Uncle!", He called back to the fat mage behind him as he lead on. "Are you sure the elves know where the Sword of Strength is?".

The Old mage scratched his beard and replied. "You know...Now that I think of it. It may have been a dream...".

"What?!".


The prince removed his helmet and looked back at his Uncle who seemed care free despite the fact they were roaming in the lands beseiged by the Orc Hordes.

"You mean to tell me that you told me to go the Elven nations because of a stupid dream?".

"Of course.", the old man replied happily. "Don't you know your dreams can_".

"Hush!...Did you hear that?"

Sargon looked over the north, brushing his fingers over the tops of trees, caressing the mountains, his fingers stirred the rivers waters. As he touched the small people below, a few glowed silver...

"The North" Sargon smiled "The unknown of this world. I know much of it, I have taken guardianship since my ascendence" he gestured towards a forest line filled with bustling quick figures "The elves control the most southern portion, they do not fall under my guardianship. However their lands do keep the orcs and humans from exploring the untamed wilds." He gestrued to where the cities and tribal village reached the woods "It is a land rich in resources and dangerous wildlife. Full of mystery and questions even I do not have answers for. And I myself have walked its grounds for decades" he pointed towards the small figures, all moving towards a massive range that extended towards the sea. Here and there a few broke off and would stand their ground "These are my people" Sargon said "Lycans. They go to begin a new life for themselves. Away from the persecution of humans and the bloody conflict of the orcs and elves. They move under my protection ad with my permission"

Revan's hand found Corallium's and he held it gently, pulling it away from his chin while their eyes remained fixed to one another. Her skin was smooth like the finest porcelain, her scent was sweet like the freshest spring flowers and Thanatos was basking in her company at the moment. Truly the black heart of Revan Thanatos was beginning to feel the touch of color slowly begin to tug at him.

"I have suffered worst in the past, do not allow my sister to tell you any different."

He held her gaze for a moment longer before releasing his hold on her hand and walking past her to stand in front of the warm hearth. His eyes gleaming off the light from the fire giving him an intense appearance with shadow at his back and light at his front. He slowly flolded his hands behind his back in contemplation as his mind drifted over what had happened and what was yet to come.

"I find myself wishing to continue our game Corallium, the move is mine I believe yet the days events had drained me of my humor. Your presence promises to return to me some of what I have lost but I yet do not have the good nature to move any pieces on the board just yet so pray, talk with me a while. No tricks, no jokes, no false meanings..."

Revan slowly turned his head to look at the vision of the sultry, beauty standing behind him. She stood bare foot with hauntingly stunning eyes watching his every movement. Corallium was an oddity to Revan, a mystery he had yet to unravel. She had already demonstrated an clarity of mind lacking in his kin yet more importantly she seemed to break through to him when no one else seemed to.

"Tell me Lady Fate... Can you read your own fate? Do you know what the future holds for you?"

The loss of his touch left Corallium feeling strangely bereft as her eyes followed Revan as he moved past her towards the fireplace and stood with his back to her. His broad shoulders and dark aura cutting a menacing figure in the firelight . . . And Corallium could not help but find his brooding presence irresistibly attractive.

That which frightened many, appealed to her greatly . . .

She listened intently as he spoke. His voice a low rumble that vibrated through her. Her gaze fixed forward on Revan in fascination. Coral saw a great uncharted depth within the man just waiting to be explored . . . Not that he would allow anyone that close . . .

Coral's thoughts were cut short when Revan turned his head to peer at her with that ungodly gaze of his, pinning her with his regard and his words . . .

“Tell me Lady Fate . . . Can you read your own Fate? Do you know what the future holds for you?”

Taken aback by the unexpected question, Coral considered Revan Thanatos for a moment. Her features giving nothing away of the surprise she felt.

Dare she answer earnestly to his frankly asked question? She owed him nothing of the kind . . . Yet, as she looked on at the Immortal stood before her; for the first time in her life she felt a kinship with one that was suppose to be her own kind . . . Except they were different. She was different.

“You ask the right questions my Lord.”

Corallium's smile lifted slightly as she turned and slowly strode around the back of the Divan, allowing her fingers to skim along the top of the golden frame as she walked past it.

“Yet, I doubt your arrow rarely misses its mark.”

She added softly as she drifted further along the dark room like a ethereal spirit belonging to another world. Stopping at the side of the large sash windows; Corallium ran one hand down through the thick velvety drapes that she had opened early as she stood overlooking the edges of Nemesis through the glass panes.

The view was awe inspiring as it took her breath away. The stars twinkled in the millions and streaked across the black sky like small bolts of lightning. While the Moon hung low and deceptively full and was bigger then Coral had ever seen it before in her life. Bathing her in it's silvery glow; changing the colour of the dark strands of her tresses to a sea blue. Yet, what lay below this enchanting scene was even more wondrous as ghostly clouds slipped over the edge of the Realm like a waterfall off a mountains top . . .

Realizing Revan still waited for a reply, Corallium continued as her gaze remained on extraordinary panorama outside.

“I know the future in relation to the end. For it stands the same for all of creation . . . Alas,” She replied with a self deprecating smile, her back still to Revan. “My plight and my secret is that Fate does not hold the same esteemed regard for me as I hold for it. To answer your question Lord Justice . . . No. I do not know my own Fate or Future. Nor, do I know of it in relation to others. I could be breathing my last breaths as we speak and I would not know it. The design is rather unjust, is it not?”

Coral added the last rather for herself then a real question. She pondered this question many time over the long years and often times it left her feeling bitter and annoyed and at other times she came to the conclusion that in fact it was better not to know her own Fate.

She knew that Revan did not subscribe to the idea . . . but fact was fact. Theirs was a life of servitude. They were slaves to the Moderators cause and to the whims of Mortals. The only reward they received for their services was the bonus of luxuries. Yet, luxuries did not equal freedom. True freedom. That was beholden and only granted to the Mortals.

Coral saw herself as more Mortal than Immortal . . . Or maybe she simply wished it were so. Being Mortal was so much easier . . . so much better. Had she ever been afforded the choice, she would have chosen to be human . . .

Turning suddenly, her dark locks tussled over the exposed skin of her back as she gazed over her shoulder at the dark figure enveloped in the heated light of the flames, his hypnotic stare holding her.

“Why?” Corallium inquired with a light smile. “Do you wish to know whether you're apart of it?”

Though her words may have appeared as another coy tease, they were anything but. Her query was substantial. She looked on him for a short moment before she turned her head back to the captivating view below.

Stroking the fingers of one hand down the cold glass panes as she spoke; her words far away.

“Fore, I do not need the Vision to know that . . . I already know the answer . . .”

Kelmor listened half heartedly to his siblings as one of Athena's aids brought her something of import. His mind was elsewhere, a sudden influx of mortals who had been gifted with a boon of longevity only to have it ripped from them without reason or warning. His lips formed a frown as he shook his head. These deaths were the result of a shift in the balance and their souls would cause ripples in the world.

"I fight so that the balance of this world is maintained Sargon, whatever that cost. And I know full well that it is indeed higher than should be paid. He pauses for a moment before looking at Athena "Revan is walking a dangerous path sister and I do not wish to see any of you the target of his rage, and I would indeed rather see his anger cooled but I do fear it is starting to seem unlikely.

He remained silent while they discussed the north of the world, for these living creatures were of no real interest. He'd judged them same as he did any other race upon the surface of Lorgraine. "Your Lycan are well suited to their domain, and somewhat wise to stay clear of the wars between the other races. But I wonder if the others could be made to see the error that the conflicts cause, and that may in turn calm our dear brother.

---

Indris clenched her fists causing the marbled table, on which the map of Lorgraine rested, to crack beneath her hands. Revan was quickly becoming a monster in her eyes, and those who had pledged their lives to serve him. "What are you now brother..." Her voice was hoarse and disbelieving "Kelmor's right, you're better than this."

---

Menoth smiled sourly to himself and shook his head as he saw the number of spirits filling his dark chambers, their eyes flaring with rage and anger and hate. Every one of them was furious and filled with pain and sorrow enough to blacken the stars in their infinite glory. With long, pointed fingers he reached out and pulled them all down, deep into the earth.

"Awaken dear children of Lorgraine." There was a certain dark satisfaction in his voice as he spoke, a green glow filling his eyes as the souls of the dead make their way to a place many fear to visit, let alone infiltrate.

---

The blood which stained the dark, deadly halls had become something similar to dried paint by now, the dripping of its conglealing mass had slowed and stilled now. The only sounds in this place was a coy voice which seemed to tease and play with the subject of its words. And that of crying, of a young woman curled into a ball in a corner praying to whoever listened that she would not die this day, though safe for now she still feared that it was only a short lived reprieve. A faint drip of liquid seemed to echo throughout, causing the girl to stiffen as if she were dead, her eyes wide in horror as she looked upon something from a nightmare.

On a road heading east from a coastal city in Lorgaine, early on this morning three figures road down this same road. They could have been mistaken for professional soldiers by their armor, save that it carried no insignia. Perhapse even mercenaries, but their weapons and armor were of high quality. One road ahead of the other two by a few paces...

Khazer tosed the bag of coins to Khali "Nice bit of coin for that one eh?"

"It will do" she said tieing it to the inside of her satchel, where other coin bags and jewels were stored "Alot more than I expected"

"Well they haven't planned on us stopping the smuggling ring either" Khazer said leaning forward in his saddle "Your brother is like a man possessed in a fight"

"He calls it his Thum" she smiled "Battle Trance"

"Whatever he calls it, it's like his whole body is one single weapon" he raised his eyebrows "I was sure we wouldn't make it out of those caves"

Khali just watched her brother, they had all grown so much since leaving Stardock. Deagonmiir was a renowned swordsman, Khazer was capable of getting in and out of any situation, an her own magic had doubled....but how long until they met someone they couldn't best in battle?

Revan watched her with those haunting green eyes of his. Her lament, her plight of existence. How cruel indeed to see all fates but your own. To know the beginning and end to all those you look upon yet still be haunted by the shadowy realization that your own destiny was still shrouded in darkness. In that moment Revan felt for her, truly felt for someone else. Compassion was something he'd given up ages ago yet now it had returned to him as he looked upon the ethereal beauty standing in the moonlight. Her curvaceous figure practically glowing with the silver light of the moon as he looked upon her.

Revan made his way over to her slowly yet with purpose. His hands reached out as he neared her back. They slid softly along her arms before her brought her body into his, his arms enveloping her in a tender embrace. Her head leaned back gently as she basked in the warmth of his chest. Revan spoke to her, his voice a lovers whisper as he held her close.

"Unjust indeed... Then perhaps it is fortuitous you found me for dealing with injustice is what I do best."

He said as his lips brushed her cheek. He placed the softest kiss on her neck and he felt the goosebumps begin to rise on her skin from the touch. He turned her around ever so slowly so she could look up at him all the while keeping his arms protectively around her body.

"You ask if I want to know my place in your fate? The truth is I find myself yearning to be a part of it. Strange... I... I have always been one of singular focus yet you have me wanting more in such a short time. You are... precious to me."

His words were full of heart yet it was obvious Revan himself was unsure of what he was feeling. By instinct he was suspicious of such trivial things as the desires of the heart yet now he was in it's grips and he was along for the ride whether he wanted to be or not.

"You can't see your own Fate Corallium, I say you need not do so. I say we forge your fate, you and I. Together we can set off on a future so great and magnificent that it will shake the very foundations of this world and beyond. The journey will not be an easy one for what I have in mind will be arduous and dangerous, nay some may even say mad but I assure you... when I succeed the destination will be well worth the trip. Come with me and I will show you my new world."

Librus finishes the record, placing it in his glorious Archives, under a very special section.

Influential Battles & Wars

He paces, back and forth, wondering what he should do. Should he go to Nemesis and confront Revan? No, the journey would be perilous to him and he would be completely vulnerable there. At least here, he could defend himself with his mechanical servant. Librus considers calling Revan to his realm, in an attempt to calm him down. He detests the Vengeful One, but he cares about Lorgaine. And Revan's rages were pretty dangerous. However, Librus couldn't tell if Revan was being a sore loser, or something...worse. It seemed him that Revan was slowly becoming a beast that would be hard to reign in and chain.

Librus heads back to his chambers, where he makes himself some tea. It usually helped calm him, helped sort out his rationale. It works, and Librus comes to the conclusion that if Revan wants to talk, he'll talk. And when he did, Librus would make it blatantly clear that this bout of rage needs to be subsided, for the good of Lorgaine. Maybe even give him a few volumes on stress management. Librus sits back in his chair, and relaxed. Tea and the soft mechanical sounds of his Archives could be so soothing sometimes.

Revan's arms encompassed her in a warm lovers embrace . . . and Corallium let him. Resting in his comforting grasp. The cold doubts of her soul washed away with his gentle words. The soft lips marked her cheek where they brushed and the tender kiss to her neck burned her deep to her core making Coral shiver in wanting.

He controlled her and she was letting him as Revan slowly turned Corallium in his hold. All the while his arms stayed wrapped around her protectively . . . possessively . . .

Her hands rested on his solid chest as Coral looked up into his mesmerizing gaze as Revan spoke words of desire, passion and . . . love to her. Coral would have pointed out the novelty of it all with her usual smart mouth but she could utter nothing as she listened realizing every word he spoke was devout and sincere.

She was precious to him, he had said. Precious . . . Her? The last time she had been anything to anyone had been when she was a young child . . . Bittersweet memories. However, as she stood in the safety of Revan's arms Corallium found herself unsure . . . yet, wishing for more. Wanting to trust Revan . . . to believe his words.

Listening intently as he continued. Corallium took in and absorbed every word he spoke . . . He offered her a choice . . . Something, Corallium was never given, never allowed. A choice to choose her own destiny. Did she not deserve the right? Everyone else in the Universe seemed to, yet she was deprived of it!

Being Immortal was a lonely and solitary life . . . Coral was tired of being alone . . . But what was worse then being alone was being with the wrong person . . . But until this very moment, no one had seemed fit enough to stand besides her let alone enjoy her company for a while. Reven Thanatos would not merely stand besides her though, he would challenge her, want to control and lead every step of the way . . . And she may just let him . . .

Like now, she had come here with a purpose in mind, yet in his arms she could fathom no possible reason.

His words spoke to her. With every word he uttered, the strands of Fate stretched and straightened further . . . Something remarkable was occurring . . .

Unlike the last time, she did not see the dark, black light less Fate . . . Corallium gasped, her fingers digging into Revan's armor trying to keep her balance as the ground began to shake violently. She looked up at him with questioning eyes yet he stood absolutely still as if nothing was happening.

“What-”

Coral began but could not finish as a gust of unbearably bright light and air wafted her way. She would see it like visible waves in heat. The strands of Fate worked around her . . . but she could not understand it. Her powers were Vision not Kinetic . . . not physical change.

Yet, she knew the familiar feeling as she raised her hands against blasting current as it threatened to push her back, her hair blowing behind her as the piercing glow of white light promised to blind. Corallium struggled, the sound of swishing air deafening . . . Until it all suddenly stopped.

Slowly opening her eyes, only realizing then she had closed them. Coral blinked at the bright sun high in the sky . . . It was the dead of night only moments ago . . . This wasn't a Vision . . . This . . . This was a reality she did not understand.

There was little time for her confusing thoughts as the scene played out before her like an act in Play on the stage . . . Except it was real . . .

Corallium watched on in awe as she stood behind two figures – at least what appeared to be two figures, one was full in form while the smaller one was shrouded in shadows – who stood on a large balcony. A roar of joyous voices could be heard from below.

Coral ventured forward, noticing the many Centurions stationed by the walls on either side of the figures in the center of the balcony. Moving towards the edge, no one seemed to notice her.

It was a Vision . . . But the likes of one she had never seen before . . . Where she was solid and apart of it . . . Yet not a part of it . . .

She was a breathing spectator of the future . . . Corallium looked over the edge. Lorgaine. And it's people and it's God's stood far below. The Mortals looked up in admiration and pure joy and happiness. Even some of the God's rejoiced . . . But there were some who looked on in rage and disapproval.

Turning, the shadowy figure first caught Coral's attention. No face, just a billowy form, piquing Corallium's curiosity. A Fate she was not meant to see? But that could not be, she was meant to see all . . .

A frown creased her brow as she looked on the clouded figure, her gaze following the arm that slowly wrapped around it; to the clear face of the other that seemed to lean down and whispered something gently to the shadow with a smile.

There was no time to address the breath caught in her throat as the bright scene abruptly flashed away . . . Darkness consumed the air once more, broken only by the Moons cold silvery light.

Corallium blinked a few times, realizing she stood exactly where she started in Revan's warm embrace. She looked up into his concerned gaze.

“Did you see-”

Corallium stopped. Processing the information.

A new world . . . Revan had said.

His new world . . . The Vision spoke to her . . .

It was possible . . . Whether he truly knew it or not . . . Was that shadow her? . . . If she was with Revan she could help him forge the path to light and the justice he seeked, making his visions come true. The Fate's showed it was possible.

Corallium looked up into Revan's passion filled gaze once more . . . Right now anything seemed possible . . .

Lifting her hand, Coral gently brushed the back of her fingers against his stubbled jaw. She was more then decided as her lips moved close to his ear.

“They shall all bow to you, love.”

She spoke softly, her fingertips sliding down his jaw as she turned Revan's head down gently to face her. Her honest and determined gaze holding his.

“And while you rule over all as King and Master, I shall stand proudly besides you in your shadow.”

Revan Thanatos watched the goddess in his arms carefully, concern and compassion playing across his sharp features. She had begun to speak, attempted to utter some form of response yet something had stopped her. Her voice absent of thought as her mind began to consume her. He almost spoke, almost broke her from her trance yet he halted. The emotions playing across her face were not ones of horror or disgust but awe and joy. She seemed astounded by what only her immortal eyes could see as she was shown the infinite possibilities play out before her. Revan slowly moved a hand up to brush the hair out of her face lovingly as she experienced the waves of the vision wash over her. Her lips quivered in a silent gasp, her eyes darting here and there as if she was witnessing some great and miraculous event. She took in deep shuddering breathes as whatever she witnessed shocked her to the very core of her being.

It had only been moments to Revan yet to Corallium it was no doubt significantly longer. He could see and feel her return to the here and now. Her body heaved as she drew one final deep breath and her eyes looked once more upon Revan and his home. She looked into his eyes as if wanting to ask if he too saw what she had, though her mind told her he could not have.

“Did you see-”

She began before stopping herself. Revan softened his gaze in response. The look was all she needed to verify what information her own logic told her. Her gaze slowly lowered to his chest yet it was as if she was looking through him, hardening her resolve with the few precious moments of focus. When their eyes met again hers were filled with passion and strength. Her hand slowly reached out for his face and the back of her fingers brushed his jaw line tenderly before she gently goaded him to look down to meet her gaze evenly.

“They shall all bow to you, love. And while you rule over all as King and Master, I shall stand proudly besides you in your shadow.”

Revan took a deep breath as her words filled him with pride and vigor. She was right, he would rule. He would lord over all when it was finished and atop the mountain he would usher in an era of justice and righteousness that none could ever oppose. The wicked will be hunted down and wiped out without mercy, the corrupt will be round up and burned for their trespasses and all will rejoice. Men and God alike will kneel before Revan Thanatos and call him King.

Revan's hand reached up to take her hand in his before squeezing it gently.

"Dearest Corallium, it is within my shadow that you will find warmth, strength and power to be yours. As my queen you shall be placed above all others for all from the mighty to the craven. As quickly as the most insignificant mortal kneels before you so to shall the likes of the pious Athena look upon you in reverence and submission to the sovereignty of your station. These are the days that will be as the first pebbles of the mighty avalanche. As it washes away all in it's path so too shall our great works cleanse this world of those unfit for it."

Revan reached out a hand and caressed her cheeck before pulling her in and kissing her passionately. From that kiss the first step had been taken. Revan Thanatos and Corallium had set fourth on a journey that would change the very frame work of all life on Lorgaine and beyond. For good or evil their actions would cause an upheaval that would be talked about from now until the end of time.

As the two kissed a shadowy mass of bats began to materialize and swirl around the two. Their passion was soon overwhelmed by the fluttering storm of bats and in the next instant they no longer stood in Revan's realm but on the steps to the Great Library of the Gods. Home to Librus, The Great Chronicler Revan had come here for special purpose. He had thought to make the journey alone, now that was not an option. His future queen should be at his side now and it is in these early days that she would show the limits of her devotion. Revan was hardly concerned, she would not betray him. Not Corallium, not his beloved.

Revan watched as she opened her eyes and saw she was no longer standing in the darkness of his home but in the light provided by the warm lanterns outside the library. He smiled in response to her questioning gaze.

"I have need of something of great value hidden within the walls of The Great Library. What I seek is in the safe keeping of the attendant of this sanctuary, our brother Librus. We will have to convince him to grant me what I desire. I will need you to help our brother see the truth in my words, beloved."

He said warmly before his spectral gaze flicked to the massive doors of the library. With her hand in his he walked up to the doors and knocked on them in greeting knowing his brother the request of permission to enter as well as feel the auras of both Corallium and Revan standing outside.

His fingers slipped through hers and he squeezed gently and warmth spread up Corallium's arm, heating her from the inside out.

She believed every word Revan spoke to her. Yes. She did not doubt for a second she would find all that he offered – warmth, strength, power . . . love – as she would take her rightful place and rule besides him, as Queen . . . As Revan's Queen.

The thought brought an unabashed smile to her lips. That widened as she continued to listen to his passion filled words. They would all kneel before her . . . She had seen it. Lorgaine and all it's inhabitants would humbly bow down in reverence to Revan and his Queen.

Yes, indeed even the mighty Athena would kneel before her and if she refused . . . Well, Corallium was not afraid to get her hands dirty and help the Maiden of War do so. Oh! How she would savor the moment with great satisfaction when the Goddess of War who always thought herself so much better and thought it her station to tell Corallium what to do and how to behave would be put in her rightful place, before all . . . On her hands and knee's.

Coral looked up as Revan caressed her cheek. Her heart raced with the anticipation of what she saw in the unholy green of his eyes as Revan pulled her in and his lips met hers. There was nothing tame in his desire for her.

Tender and Savage . . .

Revan's earlier words echoed in Corallium's mind as his lips crushed down hard on hers and she was lost in raw passion of his embrace. Coral's hands slid up Revan's lean chest twining around his neck as his arms wrapped around her waist pulling her closer into him.

So completely taken in Revan's warm grasp was she that Coral had no idea until she opened her eyes to find to her utter surprise they no longer stood in the dark confines of Revan's home but out on a street stoop to be precise. Bathed in the warm glow of lantern lights.

Revan smiled down in response to her confused gaze.

"I have need of something of great value hidden within the walls of The Great Library. What I seek is in the safe keeping of the attendant of this sanctuary, our brother Librus. We will have to convince him to grant me what I desire. I will need you to help our brother see the truth in my words, beloved."

Corallium's coy smile curved the corners of her lips once more as Revan slipped his fingers through hers once again and led her to the front door, knocking.

“And you shall have it, my love.” She replied in a teasing light but her words deadly serious. “. . . By hook or crook . . . I can be very persuasive, you know.”

Librus sips the last of his tea, finishing a scroll containing some humorous riddles from many years ago. It was a pass-time that Librus enjoyed between inscription and organizing. It relieved stress, and helped clear his mind. Librus gets up, taking on his youthful form in a loud of mist. It was time to check in the main Library in Lorgaine, to give the Catalogers more morale, and all that came with it. As he moves to create a gateway, a knock on the door sounds. Librus moves his now strong hand over the mirror near his desk, to reveal Corallium and Revan. Holding hands. What in the hell happened? It looked as though Revan had calmed down, and done much more.

Not bothering to change his form, as he wanted to appear stronger before Revan, Librus moves to the outside of his chamber's island and climbs onto a platform. It carries him across the sapphire space encompassing the Archives, reaching the lobby island. I must be popular today...not like I ever was. Librus thinks to himself, allowing himself a chuckle at the last part. The mirror showed the two talking, but he couldn't hear what they were saying. But, it looks like things have mellowed out. Librus opens the enormous wooden doors guarding his sanctuary, and looks at the couple before him.

"Hello, Lord Vengeance and Lady Fate. Welcome to my humble home. What is it that you need?" He asks them, putting his distaste for Revan and his lust for Corallium's hidden knowledge away for now.

Revan was honestly surprised by the pleasant greeting he and Corallium received from their studious kin. So much so that he allowed the smallest of smiles to form on the corners of his mouth. The smile wasn't boastful or proud like his usual smirks. No this one was different, it was honest and weak. The smile of one who felt not the right to be happy.

"Librus...You are... too kind... Kinder than I deserve."

Revan spoke with an uncharacteristic vulnerability in his voice that was truly moving to hear from such a stereotypicaly strong individual. Revan's posture even spoke to his weakness of spirit and body right now. He slouched and seemed to not only be holding Corllium's hand for comfort but physical support. Odd how Revan often scoffed at Librus for being the elderly one when now Revan stood as the apparent weak, aged one out of the two.

Librus and Revan had never gotten along all that well. In the early days Revan and Librus did not have this hatred toward each other. They merely just never interacted all that much. Librus was much too wrapped up in his books, Revan to concerned with traveling around fighting the good fight and all that. A brotherhood that never took root and when they finally did begin to see each other regularly it was with heated words and venomous tongues. A sad tale indeed that these two brothers poisoned their relationship before it could ever truly see the light of day.

Revan looked to Coral for a moment as if looking for reassurance before speaking again.

I... I have no right to be here but... Here I stand regardless. I am certain you've no doubt heard of my shameful behavior at Athena's home?..."

Revan lowered his head as if he could not bear to look his brother in the eye at the mention of the way he'd acted. Another oddity, for shame was not something Revan was known for yet here he stood. Full of regret and lament, perhaps the light of this new bond between he and Corallium had sparked something within him long forgotten.

"I come before you now because... Because I am afraid Librus. Afraid of what I'm turning into I..."

Revan paused and put up a single hand as if to ask his brother to excuse his words.

"By the Moderator I'm prattling on like a child, spilling all this out on your doorstep. May we come in and speak for a moment? Perhaps we can speak as... brothers do?"

Revan asked, pleadingly and with an honest intent that could be felt in his words.

Dear Moderator! Maybe Revan Thanatos should have been the God of Acting! Corallium thought wildly as she watched on in shocked awe at Revan's outstanding performance. Was it utterly insane, that she was finding this devious side of him unbelievably attractive?!

Every move, every shift of his features as he addressed Librus and looked on her in need of reassure and his heavy frame leaning on her for support threatened to overcome Coral's resolve as she fought her laughter.

It was only now she was realizing the depth of his depravity. It was almost as equal as hers. Truly, Corallium concluded, she had met her match. To think if they had been enemies . . . Lorgaine would have been torn to shreds Millennia's ago.

My, oh my. But was she going to need to keep an eye on him.

Turning her attention to Librus now, who stood in his youthful form with his long brown beard and his many scrolls and such. Corallium's eyes adjusted to the Librarian's aura as he looked on the with warm eyes. Yet, his aura spoke the truth of him. Suspicious clouded with distaste and mixed with . . . lust.

Coral pleasant smile inched a little higher. So the Librarian lusted after her. She could say she was surprised but truly she was not. For shame. Though it was put out there as fact, the truth was she was not a true Goddess of Temptation. Least not in the way of bodily pleasures. A slanderous nickname that over the long years people began to believe to be a truth.

Librus's lust for her was all of his own desires and none of Corallium's doing. Yet, it did not mean she would not use it to her advantage.

“Yes, Librus darling.” Corallium cooed adding to Revan's words as her free hand reached out and stroked down Librus's chest. “It is very unbecoming for us to speak out here in the open like some peasants.” She said distastefully. “Come, we are all siblings here. Revan, here wishes to apologies, sincerely. It would be very inhospitable of you not to invite us in. Have you forgotten your manners love?”

Corallium teased playfully as was her habit to do so to all; praying to the Moderator he would allow them entry before she lost what little patience she had and pushed her way in, for the night was bitterly cold and she had no shawl, no shoes and wore nothing underneath to support her ample chest.

Librus' glowing eyes were wide in shock. Who was this man? Certainly not the mighty Revan Thanatos that had slaughtered countless souls. Conqueror of many, and servant to none. It seemed as though he had died, leaving this wretched soul in his place.

And as far as Librus was concerned, he could stay dead.

No longer wanting to feel imposing and strong, Librus assumes his elderly form. His goggles click and readjust, scoping in on Revan's seemingly beaten down face. "Yes, I have heard. Documented as well. Come in, please. I'll get some tea. We'll get that mess inside your head sorted out." Librus' grin was genuine. Something he had never thought to experience in Revan's presence. He turns, and heads to the beautiful cherry blossom tree in the center of this plaza. He picks a few blossoms, and gives them a sniff. In his library, he had many facts and recipes dealing with tea. Librus used these special cherry blossoms in his tea, as he believed them to soothe the soul and calm the mind.

Librus leads them to a platform, which takes the group to a smaller island with a large dining hall resting upon it. This was where Librus ate most of his meals. It was the smallest of the six islands of his realm. It wasn't a big deal, seeing as Librus was only here for such a small portion of the day.

As he heads inside, he turns to the pair. "Please, take a seat at the table. I'll bring the tea out." Librus was almost giddy. He felt like the grandfather of the Gods, even though Eris surpassed him in age. It was why he got furious at their bickering and fughting and destroying. It genuinely angered him, and made him wish they would all just get along. Now that one of the blackest shadows is waning, Librus felt wonderful.

He steeps the blossoms along with an exotic blend of tea leaves, creating a very floral and lovely smelling tea. Setting out a platter of honey, silver cups, and the silver teapot, Librus takes a seat at the end of the long table, and waits for Lady Fate and Lord Vengeance to take a seat in this firelit hall.