Zeralt's Story

Zeralt paced around the large inner sanctum of his castle. Parchment scrawled with thick, black ink in several different languages nearly plastered the walls and covered the tables. He paused at one of the tables where an unraveled scroll sat open and examined the words written thereupon. A summons to a summit of gods? His lips curled into a viscous sneer, white teeth shinning dimly in the candle light. "How delicious" He said to himself in a voice that came as a raspy whisper that brought to mind the sound a blade makes as it is drawn form a leather scabbard. He was taken aback by the sound of his voice for a moment, it had been some months since he had last used it. He cleared his throat and tried speaking again "Can't be speaking like some old beggar at a summit" ,his voice this time coming as a bass baritone. He cleared his throat one more time for good measure and started to recite his teleportation spell.

Zeralt arrived at the realm of council as a cloud of black mist that slowly took the shape of his preferred form. He strode wordlessly to a one of the seats, his boots making soft echoes against the floor as he stepped. Although his face didn't show it he was assessing the other gods who had arrived already. There was Klethi, as ever with her mortal, Novakillin asking her some question and Rasoc who Zeralt assumed had called the meeting. He wondered if any new gods had been formed recently, they always were so easily manipulated. As he sat down he greeted everyone warmly, and with a slight smile.

Hazarmaveth stood in the center of his realm, a vast twilit expanse of a warm and calm cityscape. This was the land he had created, Shalom. It was neither too much or too little, it was neither too hot or too cold, but was as much as it needed to be. It changed, it grew, and evolved for every occupant that took residence here, like a dream. It was a paradise he gave anyone that had at least more desire of kindness than hatred of others. It was a piece of art that has proven very difficult to top, and was the height of his creativity. Of course, much of it was shaped by the dreams of the residing mortals, a concept he has never quite experienced himself.

As he mulled over his thoughts he hears something, music. He strode across the street and leans towards a building gripping his cane and leaning against a lamp lit with a calm blue flame. Festivities were taking place in a large bright building. A collective of souls have gathered for a party. He dared not to interfere, it was enough to just... listen a little. It was things this little that made it worthwhile. As he began to get carried in with the music something else caught his attention. A meeting was called, something that hasn't been for some time. "What a pity," he muttered as an extra pair of arms emerge from under his shadowy cloak and opened a portal beside him. He kept facing the building before turning away. "I felt I too was being carried into their dream."

As he moved through he found himself before the doors of the council, he already felt his brother Rasoc had arrived prior. He seemed a bit irate over some matter. Walking in he was met with the sight of his brother glaring down the elf that accompanied Klethi. "Greetings," he says softly before walking over and seating himself down across from them. "I am surprised you notice him at all, brother, his presence is one so very unimposing." He glances over at the elf and quietly bows his head respectfully. "I mean that of course with no disrespect."

He looked around at the other gods that had arrived before him, to catch up in matters of present. In an effort to not be discourteous he acknowledges each and every one. First he centers his gaze onto Novakillin, the god of invention. "Greetings tinkerer Novakillin, have you a new project?" His eyes narrow for a moment making sure it was him that was in charge today and not Markavian. His alter-ego... would easily give him discomfort with his blatant disregard for life. "Ah, that is good," he mutters cryptically.

Feeling some discomfort he then takes note of Vescteseg, looking ever so full of himself. A god who reveled in pain and torment, and to capture souls to serve as undead thralls in his army. It was by nature alone cheating both deaths on claims upon them. It unsettled Hazarmaveth, yet he hated to feel... enmity for another. At first he considers a snarky question regarding the consumption of small children but he fears the response. He wrenches the cane with his multiple sets of hands, spinning it clockwise and counter-clockwise. Finally, mustering the strength to hold back his irritation he calmly says, "greetings, Vescteseg."

He finally meets eyes with Zeralt, looking up to his schemes as usual. He hopes that there will be no friction between them, given that there are no secrets in death. Despite it, he does not feel bothered by him, he is far too wrapped in his trade and far too patient to disrupt order. That is, unless it benefitted him substantially, anyways. This was a perk, in a way, to a more organized evil he supposes. "Greetings Zeralt, how fair you?"

He took another look about the meeting and saw no sign yet of Pyrexus Riey, a sinking feeling coming upon him. Had there been another fight between them and he was unaware of it? He dreads the thought of it. He wanted to ask, but family business has no place in these meeting. Despite all of what his twin was he much rather blame the side of the mortal world he represented. He glances down at the table and sighs. "Will she not be joining us?" He finally asks.

Edna was busy watering her garden in the Lush Lands with a small wooden watering pot. The garden itself had rows upon rows of plants and flowers which stretched for miles. She loved every second of tending to her plants as she was bathed with the sunshine and surrounded by the chirping of the birds and the low humming of the trees around her. What was also fantastic was that it had been 60 years since any war or mass death had happened, which meant that the mortals were happy and that meant they were prospering.

As she continued to water her plants she heard a gentle knock on the bark outside and peered outside a hole to see who it was. One of her oldest treants since the creation of her realm was standing 18 stories high to look through her window. "Many apologies mistress...But you have been summoned to a meeting with the other dieties..." The old tree spoke slowly. She gently placed her watering pot on the ground before speaking. "No need to apologize, I was not doing anything of great importance. But if I have been summoned to this meeting then send word to the other guardians to tend to the garden and the realm while I am gone." She politely asked and the giant treant nodded before slowly lumbering away causing the ground to shake but causing no damage to the land itself.

Walking away from the window, she wandered through her home before arriving at a large deccorated room with many floating spheres hovering around. The spheres served as her means of transportation around the world of Armoth and more importantly around the plains where the mortals lived. She had decided to bring along her champion since nothing told her that she couldn't bring anyone else. After taking hold of a sphere which depicted a village, she channeled some of her energy into it and a second later was just outside the village which was depicted on the sphere. She took the form of a bird and then flew into the village before landing on a woman's shoulder and whispered in her ear. "Valoel, please go into the woods." The woman nodded and wandered into the woods and after wandering a safe distance from the village, she was then brought to the room full of spheres.

Edna returned back to her preffered form and picked up her divine weapon. "Sorry for bringing you here on such short notice. But I was hoping you would join me to go with me on this summons to hear what they have to say." Valoel shook her head before speaking. "It's no problem mistress Edna, I was just about to go on my daily run so it's no big deal." She assured the Goddess.

After their conversation was out of the way, Enda took hold of a sphere which depicted a meeting room and after motioning for Valoel to hold onto her arm, she channeled some energy into the sphere. In a second they had both arrived at the meeting room where Rasoc, Hazarmaveth, Klethi, Zeralt, Vescteseg, and NovaKillin had already arrived. "My greetings to everyone in this room." Edna spoke in a sincere voice, but deep down inside she didn't feel well being in a room with a few gods who were affiliated with death. Taking her seat next to the table, she motioned for Valoel to sit on her lap since she didint know how long this meeting would be, and she didn't want her to be standing up for the entire time they were there. Reluctantly, Valoel sat on her lap.

Pathointia, the realm of Montayzuomah's reign. It was a very beautiful realm, if one was in to eternal pain and suffering from disease and war that is. The major hotspots of suffering located in a large cluster of strange, black, incomplete structures were the best places to find suffering. It was also the area in which Montayzuomah could be found, floating above the area, watching, waiting. It was all the same to him, everyone suffered in the same way, everyone screamed the same words as they cursed their god for bringing them to this forsaken realm. It was their fault for worshipping him, they fell into his trap ever since they offered their loved ones for power on the battlefield. Who does that?

The god of war and disease, Montayzuomah, floated above his disgusting domain. Lying on his side with his head rested on his hand as he stared down at the mess with a sigh. The lands, previously yellow with sand had turned black with rotting blood and disease. Many people had given up their will to fight, only to lie against the black structures, waiting for the rest of eternity. He had to do something to get some action going on...
That was when he looked towards Armoth, the land of the mortals, searching the area for those worthy of change. Someone messed up enough to bring some excitement into his realm.

And that was when he found him. Vladimir Rostovii. A strange human born into the areas of disease and suffering, born with a power which destroyed his sight. A power too strong for any normal human to handle. Normally, someone like this would have died at a very young age, but his family seemed desperate. Offering as many people as they could to grant their son with life. That wouldn't work, they're begging the wrong god for this. However, looking into the dark, corrupted soul of this mortal gave Montayzuomah hope. Perhaps this was the man which would bring excitement back to Pathointia. He may not be able to grant life, but Montayzuomah can grant power. And that is what he did. Granted Vladimir Rostovii the power to handle his powers, the power to fight...

---

Twenty years have passed since the blessing. Since the destruction of the Rostovii clan. The corrupted man, Vladimir, used his power against his own people for his own benefit. The ability to wonder. It was quite a pathetic goal, but it was still something which gave him favouritism from his god.
Vladimir wondered the lands of Armoth, travelling from town to town, meeting a variety of people; most of which were murdered. He was becoming the perfect human, experiencing many diseases from different towns, only for his blessing and raw power to overcome it. Immunity was being formed against all Montayzuomah could through at him, while skill was being trained as Vladimir hunted down the 'wicked'. What a beautiful sight.

"Yo, Vlad." The deep, mischievous voice spoke out from Vladimir's left side. Montayzuomah had made another appearance to the mortal. Dressed in his usual golden armour which glowed in the setting sun, his halberd was held over his shoulder as he walked alongside Vladimir, their paces matched.
"Go away. I'm busy." Vladimir replied in his usual monotone manner, his head kept facing forwards as he seemed to be concentrating on the sounds of the environment.
"Busy with what? You're just walking."
"I'm hunting. I heard a rabbit about 50 meters away."
"Boring~" Suddenly, Montayzuomah's head perked upwards, looking around the area as if he was listening. "Oops, looks like something's going on with the other gods. I'll be right back. You think you could hold my weapon for me?"
"You're just trying to dump it onto me, my swords are all I need. Get lost, take your time with the others." Vladimir snapped, he really wasn't up for this god's annoying voice, especially when he needs to be silent to hunt. Of course, this had happened in the past one too many times, so this kind of conversation would always end at this point. Allowing Vladimir to be left in peace once more while Montayzuomah disappeared to occupy himself. This time, it was with something relatively important.

---

Arriving at the meeting, Montayzuomah could see some of the gods had already appeared. Rasoc, Hazarmaveth, Klethi, Zeralt, Vescteseg, NovaKillin and Edna. They're all kind of interesting, especially Rasoc and Klethi. The other's, not so much. Although, he can't really judge them all now, after all, Montayzuomah would always lock himself in his realm or toying with the mortals. He always refused to contact other gods, unless there was an important meeting...

"Hey guys." He called out, raising his free hand to the group as he took his seat. Ignoring the pets which tagged along with the gods, perhaps he should of brought his own... "Is something going on~? I'm kinda busy."

Klethi greeted the many other gods as they came with growing excitement. Something about the divine density of the room got her childish, scheming mind excited. "Hello, hello everyone." She sat upright, hands together on the table. "The brothels go well," she answered as the many others filtered in. "How goes your wild science? Well, I'd assume. My disinterest in such matters bodes well for their success." It wasn't clear whether she was making an insult, threat, or simple observation.
Klethi didn't care who specifically said it, but she was offended by whoever called Fenris unimposing. "Is that so, Hazarmaveth? I could say the same about yourself." Fenris wasn't offended by the comment; he tightened his lips and scratched the back of his left hand nervously, trying to avoid being swept away by passing giants. "Ignore him: He doesn't even believe you exist." She smiled, and offered a wink; he quietly molded in with the nearest wall and stood silently, hoping to be ignored. Gods had no need for food or rest; their summit could last a decade, and if he was forgotten, it would be to starve and die in hiding.
Klethi looked to Edna, who had also elected to bring a mortal, with a raised eyebrow. She allowed hers to reside in her lap? It must have been like trying to balance a sewing pin on its thread bulb. But it was better than leaving pins strewn about the floor. "Fenris!" She turned back away and gestured to him. "Come here."
Fenris took a tentative step forward, and looked to either side to confirm he wouldn't be crushed when travelling. "Yes?" He had to repeat the inquiry when he reached her foot to overcome his small voice, and the buzz of the many greetings being exchanged. "Care to join me?"
"...not particularly. The wall was acceptable."
"Tough." Klethi took him up, and deposited him on the table, to stand in full view of the many gods in attendance. He wasn't anything particularly pleasant to look at, in much the same way someone tried to ignore an unwanted fly. "Comfortable?"
"...I liked the wall." And he didn't like being held in a massive hand that could have flattened him as easily as moved him. He'd at the least break his neck if he fell off the table. "You're no fun," Klethi complained. "Look." She gestured to Edna. "She brought you a friend. Her friend likes trees and animals and things. You're a natural pair." Before he could protest, Klethi leaned and rested an arm on Edna's chair. She nodded to Valoel. "Greetings, Goddess Edna. Fenris here was just telling me that he finds your plus-one quite fetching, and he'd appreciate the chance to meet her."
"I said no such things!" Not that Fenris expected to be acknowledged, or even heard. Still, another mortal was some comfort, not as a conversation partner, but because it made his presence a slight less jarring.

There was time enough for those gathered to make their greetings, and their many pleasantries and small talk, before the meeting actually began. Fenris was given time to splutter and fail utterly, through various faux paus or general vocal clumbsiness to thoroughly embarrass himself if Valoel was indeed introduced to him, likely with many less-than-helpful interjections by Klethi informing the poor girl of his marital status.
"Alright, everyone." Klethi stood, taking the rooms attention. "I assume you all wonder why we are here. For once, I'll forgo my usual superfluous extravagance for the sake of time." She gave them a moment to gather themselves, then continued. "We, being the gods of this world, have long held ourselves as above mortals. And for good reason, I would say. We do not age, we do not fear malnutrition or the other threats to the short existences that mortals enjoy, be they elves, humans, dwarves..." she rolled her hand about the wrist as a form of dismissive "et cetera."
"That being sad, my fellow wielders of holy and terrible powers," Klethi continued with redoubled energy, "there certainly is one thing we all have reason to fear: The forging of mithril, and it's rare cousin minerals that can sever the flesh of even our divine bodies." She had left her seat, weaving between the seats of the others. "It has been generally agreed, for some time, that its pursuit should be avoided by ourselves, and discouraged from tumultuous, corruptible mortals, to prevent an arms race. Being honest, our friendliness even at this moment is tentative at best. I cannot imagine if our brothers of death were to go to war, or Edna left Armoth's plants to wilt, or our resident schemer went forth with his many machinations and proliferated such dangerous substances."
Klethi reached her seat again at the height of her preamble. "That being said, I am aware of a very unique opportunity that we have. An opportunity I wouldn't see passed over, even by the humblest of our covenant. That opportunity, I am sure many of you less respectable gods have already guessed the nature of. I will admit I am the least well connected of our convention, and whatever I know, undoubtedly is already ancient news to the rest of you. So I know what I am about to propose will not be met with surprise because of its suddenness, but at the abhorrent nature of its conception, goal, and possible consequences."
Klethi curled her fingers over the back of her chair and leaned against it, as if suddenly tired. "We call ourselves gods, but we are nothing. We live under the meaningless hegemony of the primordials, who claim no more right to throne except by age than of us do to control of Armoth! We have it on competent account that that which threatens us, threatens them equally. Edna! How well would your gardens grow, if you became the sun? Hazarmaveth, what divine realm could you reward the pure of soul without the suckpits the devoutedly unlucky are inevitably trapped in, the product of a bygone era ruled by false kings?"
Klethi threw her arms up. "My fellow gods! Let us know longer be shadows of lies and false titles! Our overlords presuppose false claims to their domains, which ought be conquered and parceled out to all who are brave enough to take them. But why now? Why now, and not before, and not later?" She nodded, as if expecting someone else to answer, before continuing. "It is because, in silence, there is not a single one of our summit who has not stockpiled their own supplies of these precious metals we require. By covert operations, trickery, skullduggery, violence, betrayal, and worse, many of us are quite well off. The... less proactive, no matter what defense they provide, similarly possess similar resources." She looked around the table. "Our opportunity, is that though I know this has been happening for some time and I have said nothing, I am quite aware that we have almost enough to end Armoth's unwanted guests. I have gathered us to propose that we abolish our cardinal rule, and that we pool our stored resources and divide them evenly, then pursue with due haste what is necessary to redouble our shared supply and employ the greatest of our domains to equip themselves and ourselves as needed to end the primordials."

Had it not been for Zeralt's long developed patience he would have been visibly shaking with excitement at Klethi's words. Schemes after all, were his stock and trade and this was one that peaked his interest. Such a large scale deception could be incredibly beneficial to his own powers, not to mention overthrowing higher-ups was one of his favourite pastimes. He was somewhat suspicious of how she knew about his mithril stores but quickly got over it.

Once Klethi had finished unveiling her plot Zeralt steepled his fingers and sharply inhaled. With quivering poise he exhaled and began to speak as calmly as possible. "This is quite a plan you've devised here Klethli, but I can't help but point out the one large flaw. It relies fairly heavily on others who may be unwilling to help." He allowed the point to linger on the air for a moment, his eyes closed and mouth set. Then he looked her in the eyes and a smile split his face. "But at the very least You'll have Me."

"Brother" the death god of Cyeth greeted his counterpart and straightened up slightly in his chair. "I see more things than you realize, Haz.." Rasoc simply mumbled, as he greeted more of the other gods as they arrived. Vescteseg and Novahkillin he greeted as they took their seats, even though he wasn't terribly fond of the inventor. "I do not know, brother.. It's been a few years since I last spoke to her.." he answered his brother truthfully, as he watched Edna walk in. The Goddess of life... Personally the death god had nothing against the goddess, after all, there would be no death without life and vice versa. In fact, he had always been somewhat fascinated with her and had even visited her realm a few times, but he had always stayed hidden, watching from a distance. When he visited, he'd never wander about as his presence killed any plants within 3 meters of him. His caustic green glowing eyes fell on Montayzuomah whom he had little love for. The god was ill-mannered, rude and childish in Rasoc's opinion.

Once most of the gods were there and had stopped talking, which seemed the opportune time for Klethi to speak. And so she did. The speech was a long ramble about dethroning the primordials and how to do so. Rasoc only listened with half a mind though, he knew the goddess was a trickster and that this idea was likely just an elaborate plan for her to have some fun. The idea in itself was a good one, it was a sound plan. Although with the flaw, in which Zeralt had just pointed out.

"A plan great indeed, I agree.. But aren't you forgetting something, Zeralt?" the death god grumbled slightly, his voice deep and gravelly. "It's intriguing, yes. However we all know you Klethi.. This could very well be a bluff from your side. A scheme, just to satisfy your curiosity or to get rid of your boredom.. This is after all not the first time you've done this.. Making a plan for fun's sake.." Rasoc pointed out as he leaned back into his chair, silently watching Klethi from under his hood.
The meeting was very likely a waste of time, but it was ultimately better than being bored. His eyes were watching the goddess, but also keeping a lookout for the main entry. Slightly hoping for his daughter to arrive at some point.

"Maybe I should have brought Alastor here after all... At least he makes things interesting.." it was mostly just a low whisper, a mumble, talking to himself as his eyes returned to stare at the Lady of Luck.

As the rest of the gods were entering the room, Klethi had placed her mortal on the table before resting her arm on Edna's chair and greeted her and telling her that Fenris has taken a fancy to her champion and he wanted to meet her. She didint hear Fenris voicing out his opinion and decided to gently pick up Valoel before placing her on the table. "Greetings, Goddess Klethi. It's nice to meet you after these past few decades." Enda greeted in response. For Valoel she looked at all the other Gods and Godesses before turning her attention to Fenris. "Pleased to make your acquaintance Fenris, I hope we become good friends in the future." She greeted him before taking a seat on the table.

Soon the meeting began, and Klethi decided to make things short. She spoke about how they never age, starve, or fear the threats the mortals face. She then went on about Mithril and other things but what caught her attention was what she was saying halfway in the meeting when she mentioned that they, the gods, were nothing compared to the primordials, and she went on how they were the ones on the throne due to age. Edna didn't like where things were going since this seemed to be concerning the primordials who she considered were the gods of the gods. Her fears came to light when Klethi proposed that they go against the primordial gods by doing a covert operation and striking them when everything was all set.

At the end of her speech, Zeralt had agreed to go with her plan and Rasoc seemed to like the plan but was scepticle over the whole thing, but Edna did not like this plan one bit. "As much as having the power of the sun sounds. I will not condone this plan. The primordials may be on this supposed throne like you said but they haven't done anything to us so far. They have not cursed us or blessed us, they have just given us life to watch over the mortals. What reason is there to find more power when we have all what we could possibly want? And why give the primordial gods, the ones who gave us life and possess power far beyond our power, a reason to fight us? I for one do not wish to be part of this plan to go against them. I apologize, but I will not fight." Edna spoke not wanting to join in their plan.

After listening to Klethi's long spiel about rising against the primordials he only felt... troubled by the whole thought. They are beings much higher than them, much stronger, and should they be enraged... it is best not to think of it. Hearing Zeralt grant his support so immediately bothered him as well. He had not pegged a god of secrecy to be so ready to stick his neck out. The original god would perhaps have been more cautious, but... perhaps he has a scheme behind this. Then he watched as Rasoc challenged Klethi's legitimacy. He sighs slightly, a bit of relief that he saw through this. He taps his staff against the floor. "Well spoken, Brother."

He placed his attention upon Edna as she makes her speech. It was a fair point, he had thought the same when Klethi first mentioned fighting the gods of gods. She may never have been fond of him due to his position, but their nature and view on life is one not one so divergent. "Miss Edgna, another point well spoken, and let us not forget too that, should we fail, their wrath will be upon us all. They need but to sneeze in our general direction." He rests his elbows upon the table and his hand upon his hands looking troubled. He had witnessed the might of the primordials first hand, he was not ready to go against them without cause. "After all, it is not my sake that I am concerned for."

Zeralt listened intently to the other gods, noticing a recurring theme among their objections: they all lacked ambition. This was unsurprising given that the gods who had so far spoken out were the ones who were fairly content in their realms. Rasoc was so patient he probably felt he could out wait the Primordials, whereas Edna and Hazarmaveth had their own sort of paradise projects.

Rasoc did however bring up a good point, how did Zeralt know this was a serious plan and not another one of Klethi's games? He thought for a moment and answered "Well the thought of this being another one of Klethi's games did cross my mind, I feel that this is something more than that. Taking on the Primordials is certainly a gamble, but I can think of no better gambler than Lady Luck herself. Brothers and Sisters, do you not feel that we are but pawns to the Primordials? However like pawns, once we have been pushed to the end of the board, we become something greater."

"Not only could this all be so very beneficial to us" He continued "but to the mortals of our realms, think of how much more they shall bask in a world we have shaped for them, then the one that the Primordials, they who may not even acknowledge their existence, have forged."

He really cared very little for the well being of mortals, in fact he thrived on their betrayals, lies and secrets. But this argument may help to convince some of the gods who cared for the little beings to be in favor of the plan. And should we fail, he thought grimly, he could always betray his fellow gods and seek to gain favor from the Primordials as a last ditch effort. After all, in his eyes turnabout was always fair play.

Novakillin, after greeting every god, listened to the speech about... .fighting the primordial gods.. Markavian perked up from beneath his consinceness. Novakillins troubled mind went deep back into his head. Novakillin, now Markavian, grind manalically. He looked madder than a dwarf high on skooma. Markavian stood up from his chair, and went into the middle of the room. What a wonderful arrangement! Gods aginst gods, thats sure to cause chaos...markavian thought. "Fellow gods.." Markavian said. " Arnt we tired of being treated like where no powerful than mortals? Arnt we tired of these chains to our so called family? Well, I certainly am. I agree with every word of this. The primarlals had there time. Its time for our rein to begin. What do you say brothers? Sisters? Shall we unbond our chains? Or be slaves to there every welms for the rest of enternity?" Markavian said with passion. Oh he loved this. Novakillin was not in control anymore...his stress level over took him.....now its markavians turn. "Rasoc, youknow we should fight. Enda, your treated as a scab on the arms for the primials. Your love for life goes unnoticed, and yet you defend them? How dare ye! Those words are no more than traitous to your fellow gods. I will draw my bow for this cause, will anyone else say the same? The first gods must be taken down!" Markavian was grinning with every word that came out of his mouth. Oh how he loved this.....

Rasoc nodded at both what Edna, his brother Hazarmaveth and Vescteseg said, agreeing with them. "Are you really willing to take that risk, Zeralt? Even if this elaborate plan was going to work, we still have the one problem. Amo'lanainn.. His realm is unreachable. Even by the other primordials.." the god of death pointed out, the biggest flaw of the plan yet. How'd they reach the all-father? They couldn't. No one could.

The growing annoyance that was Markavian, spouting nonsense as always. "Enough Markavian" Rasoc's voice bellowed through the whole room, deep, dangerous, warning. Earning him some silence.. "We are the lesser gods, like it or not. But we are not forgotten by the mortals. No. Far from it in fact. The primordials are the ones who are nearly forgotten by the mortal inhabitants of Armoth." Rasoc reminded them. "And Vescteseg is right.. We would cease to exist in the blink of an eye, should our supposed attempt to overthrow them annoy any of the primordials.. And if know both of you.." he pointed at Markavian "Both you and Novakillin would rather get rid of one another, than being purged before either of you can kill the other. Correct?" the death god pointed out as he straightened up a bit in his seat. This plan was not to be taken lightly, as this would much sooner seal their doom than it would actually work. That much he knew.

"As for Pyrexus.. I'm fairly certain she wouldn't want to participate in this insane plan either, I could be wrong of course, but I honestly don't think she would. No disrespect, Klethi.." Rasoc said and nodded to the Lady Luck. If this was a serious plan, then Klethi was more insane than he first thought. The goddess was a gambler, but she also bluffed and lied for the sake of fun. It was definitely going to be interesting to see where this was going.

As the meeting kept on going, Novalillin had decided to give his support to this plan. She had him pegged as a man who wouldn't join such an insane plan, but she respected his opinion and everyone's opinion. However when Zeralt told them it would be good for the mortals, she spoke up. "That is of course if we all were truly doing it for the mortals. Most of the mortals are living in relative peace under their respective God and Goddess, so what more could they ask for? Eternal life? More power? More war? I say they are living a good life so far so we don't need more power to do so." She responded in a gentle voice to Zeralt's comment. However what surprised her the most was when Vescteseg had disagreed with the plan, and she was happy that he disagreed to it. She thought it was weird to know that the ones against this plan, were the gods of death and power.

Soon Novakillin went on another rant to continue to try and get their support on this matter, however it seemed that Rasoc finally had enough of him and told him in a large bellowing voice that enough was enough. He then went on how they were the lesser gods wether they like it or not, but he also told them that the mortals still know them while a few knew about the primordials. "Well spoken Rasoc and everyone else currently in this meeting. We know know where most of us stand with four of us against this plan and three of us lending their support. Although we are missing one person, but if what Rasoc says is true, his daughter will have no part of this plan which leaves only Montayzaumah who has not said what's on his mind about the plan." She spoke politely. The meeting was hopefully nearing its end and she hoped that without enough support they would not attempt to do something so dangerously insane.

Zeralt had become content to hear everyone else's points on Klethi's plan. They all had fair arguments as to why or why not, but it seemed the majority had been for the not side. Filing away all of the details for possible future extortion, he sat patiently awaiting any further points that were to be made. This whole plan was a good idea to him, but as he pointed out earlier it relied on those who wouldn't help, especially in the case of the more powerful gods. Oh well, they may come around yet, in the meantime there was something he had been planning lately anyway and it would be a shame for his preparations to be put on hold.

It seemed as though the meeting was adjourned as Vescteseg made his exit. Zeralt got up to leave, but a brief thought crossed his mind as he remembered something that had been puzzling him. Before making his exit he walked over to where Edna and Klethi were sitting with their mortals. "Hello there," he greeted them warmly "I couldn't help but notice you both brought your mortal champions with you and was wondering if you wouldn't mind if I ask them something? Nothing nefarious I promise, it's just something I've been curious about. You see a lot of my followers are people who would die for their cause and I can't help but wonder at that. Being immortal I don't really have a concept of this and was wondering if you could enlighten me?"

Valoel was listening to the deities arguments about facing the primordial gods. She was thankful that the plan didint get that much support so far, but her attention turned to Montayzuomah, the God of war and disease when he asked the mortals on the table if it was wrong to kill family. Sure he was intimidating and compared to him she was like an ant, but she remained calm and she soon stood up to give the God her comment about the subject. "It is very wrong to even think of such a thing! Your family is the one who gave their child life, so thinking of killing them just because they are on a "supposed throne" is wrong!" She had to call out to the god knowing that her voice would possibly not be heard.

After giving the god her opinion, she was going to sit back down if it wasn't for Zeralt, the God consperiancy, plots, and secrets greeting them warmly and asked the mortals a strange question. "You see a lot of my followers are people who would die for their cause and I can't help but wonder at that. Being immortal I don't really have a concept of this and was wondering if you could enlighten me?"

Edna and Valoel looked at the god. "I don't see much harm in doing so, Valoel would you be so kind to tell him your opinion on the subject?" Edna spoke and Valoel simply nodded at her before giving her opinion on the subject. "Think of it this way, if you knew you have at least 100 years to live and could die at any point in your life, would you just accept the fact that you are going to die at any time? Or would you do something to give your life meaning? Sure, being a champion may lower my life span, but when the time comes for my eventual death I can look back at all I have acomplished so far and die peacefully knowing I have done something to give my life meaning!" She called out to the god.

Edna smiled upon hearing her words, such a girl full of life always made her feel exited being around her. "Well spoken Valoel, I truly admire your spirit." She smiled before looking at Novakillin. What Hazarmaveth told her didint change her views on her fellow deity. "I guess that means you are just two separate people. Don't let it get you down, you are Novakillin, the kind inventor and the other person inside you is a an entirely different person. I don't mind your twin entities at all." She smiled at him then turned towards Klethi. "If we have nothing else to discuss, I would like to leave the meeting to go back to tending my garden and keeping watch over my followers." She spoke politely before carefully placing Valoel on her hand and producing a sphere which had the image of her realm on it.

Hazarmaveth stood before Novakillin and Edna, and listened to Zeralt's question. He had often wondered the same, but in a different perspective from which it was asked. It had always amazed him on what things made mortals defy death and keep living. He listened to Valeol's response, a spirited answer as expected of a champion of Edna. "Yes, to live a life to its fullest, to accomplish great feats and look on with no regrets... you are a fine soul, do not let any tarnish that." He spoke kindly, but something troubled him in what she said. Something that has troubled him about his own servants.

"But, mind you I pose a couple questions of my own, miss Valeol? Do you consider your life of less value than ours?" His pupils dilate, a clear infinity shape to them to them now, his eyes a glowing haze, eagerly awaiting a response. "Would you follow an order regardless of what it was?" His tone was one of curiosity, but hinting towards something of a darker nature in the extent of her loyalty.

Klethi didn't let her disappointment show, though there was much of it. She waited, once again, patiently for an opportunity to slip back into the conversation and take it in a more effective or fun direction. She was interrupted, though, when the great schemer decided to bother her about nonsense. She waved a hand dismissively. "That is fine," she replied, not giving him or Fenris's response much thought.
Fenris, who had sat silently with his hands in his lap, watched Valoel's outburst, and seemed disturbed by it, though he didn't say anything. He tried to remain as unnoticed as he could, but even in total, blank, boring silence, he couldn't escape Zoralt's attention. It was a real problem for him, constantly being a marvel to the things he tried so adamantly to avoid.
"You aren't immortal," Fenris corrected. He put his hands on the table and pushed himself onto his feet, then looked up at Zoralt, a cross between annoyed and perplexed. "You just haven't died yet."
"Ignore his inanity, Zoralt. He is an atheist. They believe crazy things. Fenris, I believe he'd like to know how it feels to know you will some day be dead."
"Well he couldn't answer it himself if he realized he wasn't immune to the same fate. No one here is. Just as you can plot to kill primordials, you in turn can be challenged and defeated."
"For someone that claims so wholeheartedly to want nothing to do with the realm of deities, you spend a lot of time studying, and insulting, Fenris."
"I'm not trying to insult anyone, and I apologize if I've done so." He was flustered, like this was an exasperating and common experience. For those that had dealt with Klethi enough, they were likely familiar with Fenris's disapproval or at the least how quickly and often Klethi got him worked up and made him say something dangerous. "Are you satisfied with his answer, Zeralt? If that's all, I see that I should cut my losses here, and move on my many plots with better allies."

Zeralt nodded as the two mortals gave their thoughts. After taking in their responses he answered Klethi's question: "Why yes I believe that this shall suffice for now, thank you both, I suppose I shall be off now." As he turned to walk away he paused for a moment and called to Fenris over his shoulder: "Oh and Fenris, my plots do often end in death and loss, but they don't always. You may do well to remember that my plans are often the instruments of change, for better or for worse." And with that he turned back and left, slowly dissipating as though he was walking into a thick fog.

Returning to his Castle in Nagroth, Zeralt paced for a short time going back over everything that had been said at the meeting. He wrote down some of the more important points on a scroll for later then set about gathering a few small things he needed, most notably a small vial of green tinted liquid. After his preparations were completed he donned his mortal guise; a jester of bright purples and blacks with a smiling mask to conceal his face, and headed off.

It had taken Zeralt some time to reach his destination despite his godly capabilities. Where he found himself was the capital of a quaint kingdom on the boarder of his own. He stole into the castle in the form of a shadow before returning to his mortal guise. Taking a few steps down a seemingly empty hall he started whistling a bent melody that made the air feel colder. He stooped and allowed a few seconds to pass. Then a similar whistle came, and a bald, middle aged man stepped out from an alcove. He looked around nervously to make sure that now one was watching before saying. "Yes, umm, you have it jester?" Zeralt tilted his head, the bells tied to the ends of his hair ringing ominously, his painted smile showing no emotions. Without a word he handed the bottle to the man who was still shaking.

"Maybe I shouldn't go through with this, the king isn't that bad right? Is the throne really worth it, and wouldn't people assume it was me anyway?"

Zeralt decided to break his silence, adapting a warm whisper. "Come now, this is what you have been waiting for, what you have been working for. You've gotten most of the courtiers on your side after all, who would suspect you? The throne will be well worth it... my lord" Zeralt had to try hard not to gag on his last words. He failed to mention the fact although the courtiers were in favor of him the peasants were becoming fed up with the aristocrats and shifty politics, having a mysterious death in the court would likely agitate them to the point of revolution. Then there would be no end to the amount of prayer and tribute coming to him. It had been a long road, spreading rumors in taverns to anger the public, grooming courtiers to try and take the throne, and aiding this one on his way towards killing the king. But in the end it would all be worth it...

The MacSweet's issues, while grave, were not difficult to resolve. Nothing much really was difficult for Klethi, least of all when it concerned her home territory; as much as little threatened her, she was invulnerable at the seat of her power.

"Thank you, Klethi." They were halfway back down the twisted hill-road. Fenris was cold, and a touch peckish. Klethi was smiles and radiance. "It's what I agreed to," she replied. "Don't think I'd be remiss to see the MacSweets ruined, Fenris. That's life for you mortals. Especially in Aerth. This city-my city-is not a land of safety. It is a perpetual reminder of the unpredictability of existence, the rewards of harnessing that fact, and-most importantly-the consequences of trying to cheat fate."
"Well, I'm glad they're better now."
"I am as well, as a friend; as the goddess of misfortunes, it's my solemn duty to maintain an Armoth that always fears my hand, whether I've sworn myself from the direct intervention of innocent mortals or otherwise."
"I've known you to be a kind goddess."
"But you've known me for but the years you've breathed, elf. While those are more in number than that of most humans, it's few in my own eyes. Fate can be a cruel mistress, Fenris. Be always mindful of that."
"Things have always worked themselves out, in the end."
"For you, maybe, Fenris. But what of those that have waylaid you, and suffered dearly for it? In your many travels, with the many adversaries you've faced, haven't you considered what cost they paid?"
"They were evil, terrible, cruel people, Klethi. That's the order of the universe."
Klethi snorted, then laughed. "You honestly believe that Armoth has some divine rule that dictates good shall always conquer evil, Fenris? It has been my influence, elf. I happen to like you more than most mortals. That's the only reason so many outcomes are found in your favor."

Coming from the bottom of the road, a man with a letter struggled to jog the steep path towards them. "Run along, Fenris. Clean, bathe, feed, and rest yourself; I have goddessly matters to attend to."
Fenris nodded sagically, leaving when she stopped to receive the messenger. With a huff, the man told her the origin of the letter; he was thanked, and left to return to his post. Klethi, who no longer had need to entertain the need of a bipedal mortal, floated her way down.
"And so the tragic daughter calls on the maniac to slay death... damn, I had something more clever than that prepared."

Klethi was torn. She sat on her little wood throne-chair with her cheek on his fist and the letter in her hand. She weighed her options carefully. She could go to Rasoc, warn him of the plot, and watch Pyrexus be destroyed, or join forces with the daughter. She considered what she'd gain from either plot. Rasoc, she suspected, would be lethargic, but would ultimately succeed in a fair fight. Pyrexus's death would be quick, and Klethi's reward would be-at best-empty praise.
But Pyrexus? She was young, rash, volatile, angry-exactly the kinds of emotions Klethi had seen undo generations of mortals' hard work. Like a fire, it could wither and die before anything came of it, or she could be burning her own house down. The kindle had been laid, but Klethi didn't think it was resting in a safe fire pit. Tiptoeing and planning would be necessary to see the defeat of Rasoc to the hilt, and guarantee Klethi benefited from the expedition.
"I could have a portion of Rasoc's lands," Klethi mumbled to herself. "A share of his wealth, a division of his power. The other gods would be upset, certainly, but what would be the consequence in that?" But it was too soon. If Klethi engaged Pyrexus, it would be, no doubt, to the immediate pursuit of Rasoc's death, or entrapment, or whatever Pyrexus saw suitable. Klethi thought Rasoc's power measurable, and his nature amiable, enough that he could have been a valuable asset in the the overthrow of the Primordials, an conquest of far more importance than that of a single god!
No doubt some scenario could be envisioned that would have Rasoc remain potent to assist, but betrayed and defeated before he could benefit from the death of the Primordials. With the right timing, Klethi thought, I could seize both his, and Pyrexus's, powers. I would make myself queen of Armoth, and there would be nothing to prevent it. Thank you, Pyrexus: This letter may be the beginning of the defeat of everyone.

Klethi needed an expert's opinion. She knew her own mercurial nature was ill-suited to such activities, and the fervor and anger Pyrexus offered would only exacerbate the problem. "I will see Zeralt," she decided.