Fantasy An OCC Turned to a Kingdom!

The Empire of Huntrey is expansive, covering the four different regions around the island. These four regions are divided into North, South, East, and West. The only other region not covered by the Empire, is a murky swampland owned by the rebels. The rebellion will be discussed later, for first is their swampland. This is the swamp of Erendeath, a desolate place that has a foggy, eerie air that seems to hide something. The swamp is connected to the South Sea, for it is at the bottom of the Island. The rivers run into the swamp, deep rivers and large lakes are scattered generously thoughout Erendeath.


Now, for the Empire. The first part of the Empire is to the North, the oldest portion that holds the capitol. The capitol is Allon, a city of prosperity and wealth, social and cultural flourishing, political compromise and understanding, and religious grounds of high proportion. Allon also holds the castle for the royal family, which sits against the North Wall right next to the North Sea. Besides the city and the castle, around Allon are large plains built for farming.


The South portion is where the swampland of Erendeath meets the wall. The large wall surrounds the entire Kingdom, raising high above the ground to about 100 yards high. Past the wall in the South is where the swamp becomes tame, marshes and seawater are turned to clean rivers and forest. This area is where most of the outlying villages are, holding clans and families that want a more natural life.


To the East is where the Allon Gulf cuts into the land, causing two great peninsulas on either side of the East. This area is where most marketing occurs, as well as holding most industrial activity. The East is for those who wish to work hard to earn hard, as there be no poor man in Huntrey's Empire, should he have the desire to work.


And the West, a desolate wasteland, barren of terrain except mountains and desert. This is where those who want a hardy life, built on adventure and riches go. Before the Empire of Huntrey, Allon was the ruler of these lands. He was disputed, at least now he is, on whether he was a good ruler or not. Although time cannot reveal it's past, not without preparation before hand, we cannot learn. But he did reside with his largest city in the West. The city was lost, but riches in caves, desert dunes, and old ancient building are still very common there. Besides the treasure hunting, the West holds mines to collect the many gems, stones, and artifacts.


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Emperor Huntrey, Emperor, Huntrey, or Hunter, depending on your relation to him, has ruled the kingdom for twenty years. Twenty years, four children, one wife, and an overall good Empire. The rebels are just rebels, and always have been around. No one knows if they are remnants from Allon's Empire? Those dissatisfied with the Emperor for some reason? Or maybe they have some claim to the throne? Either way, they were removed and relocated to the Swamp of Erendeath after a small group attempted to ambush the Eldest Child, Aegon, as he was hunting with Lightbringer. It seems they didn't know who trained the man, for they fell easily.


After questioning and release into the word of mouth, those in the Empire finally learned of the rebellion. Many more joined, but the failed attempt made them more patient. Now they lie in wait, or are already moving, to destroy the Empire.


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The Emperor looked out across the land that he had claimed, the divisions clearly seen from on top of his tower. Today he had to leave his favored castle of Allon, heading out to the South Wall to see if the rebellion are moving. Besides routinely chores such as this, which he preferred to do and not his children or servants, he was bringing Val, or Princess Valkyrie. They needed to discuss many things, most including the Empire or duties of the day, but also of her marriage. ((@1stLt HChurch @Daimao @Shadowborn Omen @TheAncientCenturion @Assailant @Mockingbird @AvidElmV2 @Darkangel666 ))

"Love makes the greatest men and beast fools." A soft voice whispered from the bathing chambers. Valkyrie was leaning back in a small bath, bubbles hiding her naked body. A maid was washing the Princess's hair while Val spoke. Though the Princess was seen as a ruthless kind, to her maids and servants she was kind to. Especially this maid. Her personal one. Sasha was the woman's name. More of a child for this maid was only 18.


"Into fools, My Lady?"


"Yes, fools. " Val sighed then raised a bare leg above the bubbles.


"Then should one not fall in love?" Sasha asked as her nails tugged at Valkyrie's brown haired knots.


"Hah~! If only you could stop it~" Laugher echoed in the chambers. Laughter that was sweet but almost bitter too. "You cannot escape love. When it hits you, you can't help but to be ensnared in it's cruel trap. No matter how much you try and deny it..." The princess's amber eyes softened as she tilted her head to the side "Love finds a way to fuck with us all..."


Sasha poured hot water over Valkyrie's head to wash away the soup. After a couple of minutes Sasha finished up rinsing off the princess and had a white silk dress ready in her hands. "My Lady....May I ask why you are talking about love? Is if about the Ruskie?"


Val wrapped a cloth around herself and dried off. Glancing over at her maid she only smiled with a mischievous glint in her eye. "I don't know~ Is it~?" Her maid proceeded to place the dress down and brush out Valkyrie's hair.


With a sigh and shake of her head, Sasha glanced at the white dress. "Is it really smart to wear this? For what you're going to be doing, My Lady?"


"Bah! Can you stop calling me My Lady? Please, just call me Val or Valkyrie." The princess scoffed angrily as she grabbed the dress. "Also i'll be bringing my armor too. I just don't feel like wearing it. Besides, silk feels so much better." She purred the last part as she slipped the dress on. Val let out a satisfied hum then hugged herself as the silk brushed her skin. "So soft~! Ah~ Now to go meet Father~"


"My-Princess Valkyrie. You should put on shoes."


"Tch, shoes are dumb." Was all she said. With that she walked off before her maid could pester her more.


Valkyrie walked through the halls to where her father awaited. If not for the humming she would be unnoticed. Her bare feet tapping soundlessly against the ground. The dress she wore curled around her legs as she walked, the back of the dress fanned out like a cape. Val cold barely keep her excitement in. Not only is she going with her father, but she is also riding her father’s dragon with him and get to check on the rebels. Maybe she’ll get to fight~!


The princess had already gotten her black armor and weapons ready, waiting patiently in the sight of guards near the departure area. Maybe…She’ll even get to fight the False King again! Two times she had faced the man. Once in a tournament a while back ago before he lead the grand rebellion. There was no victor that day. A perfect tie between the two. The second time she and her men stumbled upon him and his own scouts. What a battle that had been! The False King was one of the very few men whom she enjoyed fighting. That time…they had fought. She had won and was on her way back to deliver the prize to her father when a couple of rouges had to mess that up.


The False King escaped, Val had made it back to the kingdom but not without injury. She could still remember the pain an arrow digging into her shoulder. A bitter memory that still angered her to this day. There was happiness in that memory though. “Next time, False King, I bury a blade in your head.” She sang out loud for all to hear her claim her prey.


Soon enough she was where her Father awaited. “Father~” She greeted with a small, playful, curtsy. “We have things to do today, right?” A bright smile spread across her face.

Aegon Manchester

Aegon put the sparring sword back into the rack, one of the royal guards doing the same, holding his bruised side where the King had buried the dulled blade against the chainmail armor.


"You're getting better, Tommel, but you still make your attacks easy to parry," the young King said, looking at the guard. "Continue to work on it, practice with Frederick when he returns," he advised, receiving a nod in return before he removed the chainmail and placed it on the armor rack.


Aegon stepped out of the training room and into the hall, turning to walk to the throne room, where he suspected his father would be. The training room was on the far side of the large structure, and the throne room was multiple floors upwards, but Aegon had walked the paths many times, and had memorized it years ago.


The young Kin approached the door, the doorman recognizing his highness and pushing the large metal door open enough for the King to walk through, then closed it after the King had done so.


Aegon wasn't surprised when his sister was with her father. She was to leave with him later in the day. Aegon walked to the balcony, looking over the Kingdom as his father did beside him.


"Today is the day you and Val depart to see the progress of the rebellion," Aegon said, knowing his father was aware he was not fond of them leaving without him. "When do you plan to return?" He asked, his eyes not wavering from the vast earth before him, his demeanor calm and solid as ice, but his eyes burned like fire as he thought of the rebellion.


They would be crushed, and Aegon hoped he could deal the final blow himself.

Arcay came from her domain, the tallest tower on the Island that stands well above the castle. She landed softly on the balcony below, causing the Emperor's cape to rustle behind him from the force of the landing. Looking down from her large body, Arcay's eyes met that of her Emperor's. For a dragon that could rule the Island with sheer force, overpowering any man, Arcay knew she couldn't do that with this man in her wake. He was one to be respected, and throughout all their time together, she respected and loved him. Arcay brought her head down, closing her eyes to allow Hunter's hand over her.


Hunter did, running his hand along her face slowly and softly. Arcay then released her regal stature, alone on the balcony she could be comfortable and relaxed with the ruler. When she layed down around Hunter, Val entered the room.


Hunter did a small bow, mimicking her playful smile. "Only a few, things Val, only a few." Hunter walked forward, taking Val's hand and pulling her towards the dragon. Arcay knew of Val, and allowed her head to her as well. Hunter left Val with Arcay, turning to motion the guards to bring the supplies. His daughter's armor, weapons, supplies, and his combat wear. He doubted he would need it, but it would be settled on Arcay's back if he did.


Behind the guards entered his eldest, "We shall be back before sunrise. If not in two days, then begin to worry." Just like with his Princess, Hunter placed his hand on his eldest. This time it was behind his head, pulling his forehead to his. When he released the Emperor began again, "You should still keep on your job, I hear the training of the guards has slowed as you became King. That guard was your first responsibility, do not forget them, for they might be the loyalest men we have." Hunter lost his stern tone after giving the orders, "Other then that, maybe make some appearances around the city. Our people would love to see you.".

Aegon Manchester

Aegon nodded obediently when his father informed him of his lack of training. "Of course, father," he said, "That's a reason I've come to talk to you, most of the guards are getting sloppy, and aren't learning as easily as they used to. I think they need to see what a real duel looks like again, and I'd rather spar no one else than you." The young King told his father. "I'd originally thought we could show the guards once you get back from the South," Aegon shared.


He closed his eyes for a brief moment, taking the time to sharply inhale. "I thought once I envied you, for being King, but now it seems I have no time for anything. With this rebellion brewing, people are getting scared, the guards jittery. I can't say I'm unshaken by the people. I think it's far time I've gone on another hunt. It's been almost longer than I can remember..." Aegon trailed off, remembering his last hunt, "Lightbringer is ready for another, I was planning to go in a sennight. I've been trying to make time for a long while, now, and as long as the Kingdom stays as it is, I should be able to go then," he paused, "I wanted you to come with me. It's been far too long since we've hunted together. I only hope you can make time on such short notice," Aegon told his father apologetically. He was prepared for the denial, there was never enough time for the Emperor and King to go on a hunt at the same time, but before the denial came Aegon continued, "Think on it over your trip, answer afterwards," he said, looking into his father's eyes, trying to tell the answer before they had even left. He almost knew the answer already, but he hoped looking into the eyes of his father would prove him wrong.

The Southern Swamp-lands were many things, hot, moist, filled with poisonous plants and animals alike. Creatures of deceit, like the crocodile, that could snatch up an unsuspecting peasant or king alike and drag them into the depths of the murky rivers. The land refused to bend to anyone's command, it would not be transformed to fit the people, but the people would adapt to it, instead. The local tribal people were fierce and swift people, warriors and women ran through the swamp without a second glance at their surroundings. If any outsider attempted this, they would surely slip into the deadly bogs below, lost to the suffocating mud if they were fortunate. These people were tough, skilled, experienced in life or death situations. And that is what made them the perfect defending force for the Rebel movement.


It started years ago, back when the current High King of the Tasteri-Ageminai Confederation was still a babe nestled in his mothers breasts. The Tasteris and Agemenain Houses were older dynasties of nobles who prospered under the previous regime. Though, when the current Empire rose to power, they saw a decrease in their wealth and authority. With what power they had between them, they united. The leaders of the two houses had arranged a marriage with their heirs, bringing about Marcus Tasteris, he who shall bring new life to the Empire. Gairit Tasteris drilled his son for years in the art of warfare, forcing the child to become proficient with a blade. When Marcus was just sixteen, when the rebellion was nothing more then a small foot note to the royal family, Marcus began entering tournaments. Surprisingly enough, the youthful Lord was winning many melee contests, unbested for years, only an unfortunate match with the princess caused Marcus to be defeated. The name Tasteris began to hold weight in the lands once more, only giving Gairit Tasteris more power to localize.


The rebellion was going according to plan, it would be a relatively short and bloodless coup. The idea was to capture the royal family and force Emperor Huntrey to surrender his position, allowing Marcus to take over and rule for both families. Marcus' older cousin, David of House Ageminain, was suppose to be the one capturing Prince Aegon. The fool of the family, as he is now called, mistook the dates however. Two months earlier then planned, David confronted Prince Aegon and revealed the entire rebellion to the Empire. Their advantage, surprise, taken, the TAC Confederation quickly retreated south. Many supporters of Allon had done so when the old King's dynasty fell, leaving the swamp land with many friends to the TAC Confederation. It took little convincing to get the locals to join the TAC Confederation, too. A promise of a better land, where one can farm and live with more security was too good for them to pass up.


The swamp lands were a land that any outsider would die in, without a proper guide. Armies would be hard pressed to maneuver around inside of it, leaving them open to attack from the darkened interior. This was the reason for moving down to the swamps, instead of fighting. They could muster their strength and prepare for a push, while having the safety of the bog with them. That is where the Rebels had been for the past year. Building up their strength in the deep south.


Hidden deep within the swamp, past the many different tribes and deadly rivers, rested a city in the making. Antiad, they called it. It was made from stone and wood, stretching across lakes and patches of land to stand above the environment. While most of the infrastructure was stone, the homes, apart from the "Palace", was entirely made from wood. The city was home to the rebels who fled south after being discovered, with a minority of the native tribal peoples making their own shanty homes on the outskirts of the city. Antiad was an accomplish, at least to the TAC Confederacy.




The High King of the Realms, Lord of Houses Tasteris and Agemenain, was a tall individual. Reaching over six feet and five inches, the King-to-be often wore an ornate purple cape, and leather clothing mixed with armor of the same fabrics. Only at key joints did the white-haired youth wear plate armor, his elbows and knees specifically. This would allow him to move much easier in the dense and often times treacherous swamp-land. He had no illusions of this holding up, past the Wall though. He would need to see someone about an actual set of armor for when the offensive came.


Marcus stood atop the wooden palisade wall that surrounded the city, nearly twenty meters high into the sky. He was, technically, the High King and leader of the rebellion. Not an unusual place for the High King, as he stood with the honor guard around him. The High King, or so the rebels called him, was lost in thought. The world had changed so drastically in the last year, it was hard to fathom. From what was suppose to be a quick coup, to what might be a bloody decade of war. Despite his playful demeanor, most of the time, Marcus couldn't deny the pressures that this placed on him. He was the High King, or so everyone told him. But the man truthfully knew that his Father pulled the strings, gathered supplies and trained the men. Marcus would emulate him as best he could, but his father was just much more experienced in every task, it seemed.


"I'm quite done here, let's go down to the Shabby-Gater, find some strong ale and stronger women, eh?" The man asked. Call him what you will, a brat, rebel, false king. He knew what his soldiers wanted, and he would give it to them.


"As you command, your Highness." These particular soldiers were more then use to this, and pretending to fight his commands grew old long ago. The Shabby-Gater was as one might expect, a dirty pub that looked to be over twenty years old, yet was turning two in several months. Marcus only joined the men for several drinks before skipping off, finding his city safe enough to wander around without the soldiers watching his every move.


With a borderline arrogant expression crossed over his face, Marcus moved out towards the stables on the far end of the city. The King didn't directly handle most matters, not yet at least. And the swamp was such a large and interesting region to explore, albeit most of it was mapped and explored already. But the sense of adventure didn't stop the man. When Marcus reached the stables, he made a low hushing noise at the horse keeper, the two had been through this or deal more then once. The last time was actually when Marcus found himself in the custody of a certain royal daughter. A mistake he wouldn't make again. Getting atop his own charger, Marcus guided it out of the stables and towards the wooden gate. A smile cutting his face in half, as his lilac eyes were fixed on the now steadily opening passage way.

Her playful grin flashed to a bright one as she was guided by her loving father's hand to his dragon. "Hello Arcay~" She sang softly as she stroked the dragons scaled. Oh how she wanted a dragon! She did have a Dire Wolf, a beautiful black she-wolf whom was in Val's large room. The wolf wasn't too pleased when she was told to stay behind.


Her head whipped around as her brother came into her room. A handsome lad. The King of these lands. Jealousy pricked at Val though pushed aside easily. The princess had long forgotten the battle for the throne. As long as she has a spot in her brother's council and had a shared command over the army then she was fine. Who needs a throne to have power anyway? Power comes in many different ways, you just need to find which way works best. Val had many different ways.


As she listened to her brother and father talk, she sighed dramatically. "I'm rather glad I gave up fighting for the throne, brother. To be bothered with so many things is...well...bothersome." Valkyrie moved away from the dragon and stopped in front of her dear older brother. "Be a good king while father and I are away~" Her amber eyes glinted kindly. She leaned forward then hugged her brother, her white dress folding around him a bit. "Don't get hurt~" She pulled back then playfully patted his curly hair.


"I am offended!" The small gasp rushed out of her mouth as she put a hand over her heart. The look on her face was one of sadness, obviously fake due to her tone however without it one might believe she was actually hurt. "Do you not see my as a worthy opponent?" A smirk creeped on her face. "Or am I really that scary for you and your men?" Val twirled around then skipped happily over to the waiting ride, her feet quietly pushing her off the ground. "If you hunt while we are gone, please do bring Night. She's already a bit upset at being left here. Yes, I know she is a bit of a handful but I'm positive Lightbringer can help keep her listening...maybe~" The princess peeked over her shoulder. Brown silky hair hid all but above the nose. "Not inviting me to hunt either? Brother, I fear you might hate me. Terrible days, terrible days~!" With a twirl she 'fell' back against Arcay and draped one hand on her head. "What a day! To find out that my brother, whom I love dearly, can't stand being around me! I fear I might faint with grief!"


Val was certainly a handful. Throwing taunts and jokes with no stop in sight. Pestering her brother and teasing him. It was a game she played, one of the many games she DID play. Certainly one of the highest but not THE highest. No. That game was saved for a special someone. This keen sense of 'humor' ,the jabs, was apart of her specialty. Along with her keen observations. Though the princess may not look like it but she was very observant. Have secrets? She'll find a way to rat them out. That is, of Couse, a reason why she was in charge of the interrogation/torture chambers~


"Come come~" She called impatiently. "We have to go, do we not?" Valkyrie looked at father and son with a mischievous smile stretching ear to ear and eyes sparkling eagerly.

Ignis paced back and forth in the royal library, his hands gently stroking the amulet around his neck. He bit his lower lip as he stared at his research journal, taking in every little detail as his blue eyes darted back and forth, reading Ignis scrawlings. Outside of the door, Ignis heard the guards gawking about something. No doubt about how crazy they thought the boy was. The news was all over the kingdom, after all.. Beware of the emperors crazed son! Hide your children and wives! The boy couldn't leaves the castle without facing some from of prejudice. Ignis found solitude in the castles library. It wasn't a surprise to find him asleep on a pile of books in the corner some nights.


Ignis sighed and continued his work, writing little side notes in an ancient, runic language so that no rival Necromancer could decipher his work. He laughed at the thought and picked up one of the many books that covered the library floor. Who would want to decipher the work of a 13 boy? Lunatics with nothing better to do than create conspiracy theories about toothpaste having listening devices inside of them, that's who. Ignis frowned and threw the book, titled 'A Lesson In Necromancy', at the library's door, receiving a yelp from the more cowardice guard.


"Glad I got THAT out of my system....." The boy said as he sat down in a chair. He set his journal on a table and leaned back, a hand running through his already untidy hair. He put a hand in front of his mouth and breathed into his palm, inhaling. His breath reeked and his body smell even worse. How long had he been in the library? A couple of days, at the most. His tired eyes laid upon the mess he had made. After putting the books back to make the 'repair process' easier on the maids, Ignis left the library, simply waving to the guards, to freshen up somewhere.

Maxwell Teller

Soldier and Right Hand Man of Marcus Tasteris

Maxwell rides through the swamp, the occasional glimmer of light reflecting off his red armor. Max quickly swings his sword and kills a beast, before jumping off his horse and beginning the fight.


As an initial supporter of the TAC confederation, he was quickly made one of Marcus's right hand men, and most trusted advisors and soldiers. He had come to the swamp and helped with diplomatic unification with the people of the swamp. Despite his bulky appearance, he preferred a diplomatic approach, but had no problem drawing the sword.


And the last beasty's dead, Max thinks, looking at the final decapitated beast. Not bad, but I've done better. Max hears a noise and quickly jumps onto his horse and quietly makes his way towards the sound. A... horse? No other guards are scheduled to be around here... could the soldiers have finally attempted to amount an invasion force? Max quickly jumps out on his horse, intending to kill the rider, before quickly stopping.


"O-oh... my lord," He says, making a quick little bow on his horse, "I apologize, I was not aware it was you."

The Emperor looked out to his children, first hearing Aegon's response, but allowing Val to answer first. He watched her move back to Arcay, slumping her body over the anti-social dragon. Arcay allowed the body on her, as it was light and the wear of it soft. She moved her neck under Val, the scales retracting as not to cut her. Arcay let her rest on her back, right on the second saddle. The saddle was attached to a bag, on the left side was armor and weapons for Val and on the right was for Hunter.


When Val was securely on Hunter looked at his daughter, giving a relaxed wave to stave the girl. "I would never say no to a duel with my eldest son. Prepare the Arena in the training area, make preparations to hold all of the guards in Allon. Invite generals from all four walls, allow them to see as well. When I come back we shall have our duel." Hunter said this with certainty, but turned away when thinking of a hunt. The hunt could take days, Maybe, but Kingly duties come first for him.





Hunter turned back around, meeting his son's desperate eyes. Making him King was designed to mature him for the position of Emperor should he surpass his siblings, but Hunter still saw a child in his eyes. The Hunt was something he cherished, and something they had loved together. "After the duel, and if you complete a few task, I shall partake in this Hunt with you." Hunter grinned at his son, a smile almost forming on the aging face. "These task include seeing your brothers, for I haven't seen either of them today. Give them my regards. Besides that, I need you to head to the family vault under the castle. The guards will let you down with this," Hunter then took a small slip of paper from his garments, handing it to his son.





"They aren't familiar with you, more so Ignis then anybody else. Past the gold, silver, and the many riches, a small room is there. There are artifacts in there, I need them retrieved. They will be red, assorted rings, necklaces, and the likes. Bring those and leave them with my guards in my chamber." Hunter turned to Arcay, bring his head to hers before mounting on the saddle in front of Val. "Do these and I shall make sure I have time for Hunt.".





With this Arcay waited a few moments, giving Aegon any time to respond. After his response Arcay nudge the son before taking off towards the South. The fly was fast, and it seemed they would be at the Southern Wall in only a few minutes.





"Well daughter of mine, tell me of those you wish to wed." It wasn't very subtle, but the Emperor was very straightforward. He had a smile on Arcay, rubbing his hands up and down the dragon's neck.

Assailant said:

Maxwell Teller Soldier and Right Hand Man of Marcus Tasteris

Maxwell rides through the swamp, the occasional glimmer of light reflecting off his red armor. Max quickly swings his sword and kills a beast, before jumping off his horse and beginning the fight.


As an initial supporter of the TAC confederation, he was quickly made one of Marcus's right hand men, and most trusted advisors and soldiers. He had come to the swamp and helped with diplomatic unification with the people of the swamp. Despite his bulky appearance, he preferred a diplomatic approach, but had no problem drawing the sword.


And the last beasty's dead, Max thinks, looking at the final decapitated beast. Not bad, but I've done better. Max hears a noise and quickly jumps onto his horse and quietly makes his way towards the sound. A... horse? No other guards are scheduled to be around here... could the soldiers have finally attempted to amount an invasion force? Max quickly jumps out on his horse, intending to kill the rider, before quickly stopping.


"O-oh... my lord," He says, making a quick little bow on his horse, "I apologize, I was not aware it was you."

Click to expand...

The charger stopped galloping once the familiar figure came into view, Marcus pulling hard on the reigns. The typical expression, a jagged smile that hinted at nothing good, greeted Maxwell. The soldier was one of the smarter men Marcus knew, and for that he always kept him highly regarded. Coming to Maxwell whenever he needed advise or Hell, to just kill time.


"Sir Maxwell, it's perfectly fine. I decided to take a little trip outside of my city. Come, join me. Let's discuss the state of the swamp. Are the roads clear?" He asks, knowing full well that there were only two roads, far off from the city that ended with equally dangerous bogs swallowing them up. If one wanted to trade with Antiad or leave it quickly, small boats were the best option. Rivers ran all around the city of stone, connecting it to most of the swamp, for better and worse.


"How far do you wish to travel? The Wall? Further, even? Shall we search for more caves that dig underneath, or climb it? As King, it is my duty to make sure MY wall is secure, is it not?"

Maxwell Teller

Soldier and Right Hand Man of Marcus Tasteris

Maxwell grins, "Of course it is." He and Marcus had a... strange relationship. While they sometimes treated each other more like friends, they only ever talked to each other formally, with rare moments of exception. "I would recommend exploring the caves, my lord. Not only could invaders get in through there, but many monsters could make their way through as well, making it exceptionally more dangerous than routes over."


While the city walls were certainly well built, they were still new enough. And being in such unexplored territory as the swamp, often times new routes through the walls would be discovered. It seemed like every time one was built, another two were formed. Some of the explorers of these caves believed in someone, or something, called "The Carver."


Legend had it this man (Most people thought it was a man, but legends range from a female to a four armed multi faced monkey. People were weird sometimes.) would constantly carve tunnels into the city. Why? No one could truly know. Did he want a way in? A way out? Or something more sinister.


But in the end, they were nothing more than legends, and one Maxwell was inclined to disbelieve.

"Sir Maxwell, may I ask we do that on our way back? I want to explore, delve the deepest pits of the swamp! Maybe even cross over to the Empire's own territory and throw cow pies at their glorified stack of stones. It may mean more to you, and if so, speak up and we shall go. But the idea of searching for a monkey with four faces and three tongues, not to mention eight arms isn't what I set out to do." He pursed his lips when he got done speaking, turning away as he thought he might of bothered Maxwell. The Carver was infamous as a man, beast, or woman that haunted the caves and tried to cut into the walls. That was all he saw in searching in the caves, lest they find a lost bear or a swarm of bats.


"Mayhaps we ride, aimlessly instead? Let the burden of responsibility be lifted from our shoulders, Sir Maxwell? I maybe King, but the city is fine without me for several hours, and you've been busy too. Surely the two of us deserve our own time to relax?" He gave his friend a crooked smile before tightly grabbing the reigns on the charger, making it adjust the direction it was facing ever so slightly.


The white haired King was unsure of what to expect, the caves and the Carver would make for a heroic story to tell his countrymen, but it also was a waste of the King's own time. He could send ten men in search of the Carver, to scout out the caves, and be off in the misty aired swamp. Still, if Maxwell thought this was the best use of their time, he would not argue. Marcus still had much to learn, and Maxwell was an experienced veteran of both combat and worldly matters.

Maxwell Teller

Soldier and Right Hand Man of Marcus Tasteris

Maxwell laughs as Marcus mentions the Carver, "Oh, I don't know my lord. Maybe the Carver will be a fair dame!" He then proceeds to laugh even more. Of course Maxwell didn't believe in the Carver: he simply thought they kept discovering new caves. One would be surprised, however, of the rumors that went around about the Carver. Some thought it to be a manifestation of the devil, others thought it to be a God of some form! There were even small groups dedicated to worshipping it! It was insanity!


Nonetheless, it was fun to let people have their imaginations. The fact of the matter remained, however, that open caves led straight into the city: a bad sign for a defending city. And he wasn't the first, nor the last, to go into those caves to find a horde of monsters trying to rush the exit.


However, Marcus had a point. Certainly the city would be fine without them for a few short hours. As his laughter calms down and he is left with a simple smile, Maxwell speaks, "Certainly. Mapping out more terrain is a great idea." He then grinned mischievously and chuckled, "Wandering sounds like a great idea right now."


@TheAncientCenturion

Aegon Manchester

A grin formed on Aegon's face as his sister began to pester him. He loved it when she did this, as it always lightened the mood and sometimes made him forget all the responsibility on his shoulders. "I meant no offense, dear sister," he nearly laughed, "if the guards need another lesson, I'll call upon you, I give you my word," he promised with a smile. Then she brought up the Hunt. Yes, Aegon loved his sister dearly, but Hunts were the thing that he cherished with his father since a young age. They had always gone on hunts together, just the two of them. It was Aegon's father that had instilled the love for the Hunt in him when he was nothing but a young boy. He still loved the Hunt, even though for years it's been only Aegon. His dire wolf, Lightbringer, was found on a hunt. As well as his siblings' dire wolves. He had found them all and brought them back to give to his family. He loved his sister, but the Hunt was something he could only enjoy with his father. He'd hoped his sister didn't notice he ignored the second part of her bickering.


Aegon's grin faded as his father began to talk about duties he needed to complete. I'm busy with duties already! Aegon thought to himself, though he didn't voice his troubled for obvious reasons. The man's son nodded small nods at the end of every request, and as his father finished and got on his dragon, Aegon said "Yes, father, it will be done."


As soon as the giant dragon took off, blowing the young King's already short hair back a bit, he turned around, stone-faced, and walked back through the door opened by the guard. He make the trek back to the training room. The first thing he would do is make sure his guards were still training, then he would fulfill his duties for his father.




As he got there, Tommel and Frederick had just finished a spar. He walked in, the a number of his guard being present there, and drew a dueling sword.


"Tommel, come, let's try again," he said, anger evident in his voice. The guard turned to Aegon, getting in a ready position. Aegon stopped for a moment, relaxed his sword hand, and took a deep breath to let out a bit of anger and frustration. Aegon sometimes let emotions rule what he did, but anger was not one of the ones he let dictate himself. "Whenever you're ready," the King commanded, not bothering to put on the practice armor.


The guard stepped forward for an overhand swing, Aegon brought his sword up and caught the opponent's sword by the hilt, curving the swing to the right, safely away from Aegon. With both swords hitting the ground, Aegon swung his left fist up to hit the guard in the jaw, stunning him and causing him to take a step back. The King quickly swung his sword up, and jabbed it straight at Tommel, the dull blade not piercing the chainmail, but instead pushing the defender to the ground. A few moments of silence followed, Aegon allowing Tommel to recollect himself, but after those moments, the King insisted.


"Up, again, Tommel," he commanded, the guard followed order, getting into a ready position again. The King didn't wait for the guard to attack this time, stepping forward into a thrust, deflected by the side-swiping of the guard's sword. Tommel quickly brought his blade back up for a strike, Aegon stepped to the side and used his own blade to push his opponent's upwards. Once both swords were straight-up, Aegon stepped forward, nearly touching the guard as he brought the hilt of the sword downwards onto the man's sword shoulder. The blow forced Tommel to drop his sword, and Aegon kicked the guard backwards away from his dropped blade. Tommel stumbled backwards, unarmed. Aegon sighed.


"We'll continue to do this until you learn to fight defensively," Aegon said, "My father already has enough fire under my ass, Tommel, I really do have to get going, don't hold me much longer," he finished. He would stay here for a month if need be. Aegon's father wasn't kidding when he said guard's training had dropped. Aegon wanted nothing more than to make his father proud, and currently, he seemed to be doing nothing but disappointing him.


Aegon kicked the practice sword towards the unarmed man before him. He picked the sword up, and got ready again. He made eye contact with his King and nodded, to signify he was ready this time. The smallest of grins curled onto Aegon's face, one wouldn't have seen it if they weren't looking for it. Aegon began to swing his blade in an overhead arch with both hands, Tommel swinging his sword from the side to knock the blade out of it's path. The blades connected and traveled as one in a sideways arc to connect with the ground. Aegon stepped close to his opponent, bringing his left arm up from the blade to elbow Tommel in the nose, but Tommel was prepared for the attack and grabbed Aegon by the wrist, throwing the elbow out of it's course. While he still had a hold of his opponent's arm, Tommel head butted Aegon right on his Radix. Aegon's head slammed backwards, his body involuntarily taking a step back from the blow. Tommel stopped the offense at his King's recoil.


"I'm sorry, my lord!" he blurted, seeing the crimson already starting to flow out of Aegon's nose.


Aegon gathered himself, putting his hand over his nose and applying pressure to stop the flow of fire-like blood. He looked at the man who had done this to him. He felt no anger, he felt no displeasure, he felt grace. He put his free hand on the guard's shoulder, a large grin.


"Sorry for what, Tommel? You fought well," Aegon reassured the guard. "Now, teach the others, I have other matters to attend to. I want every one of the guards in here to be able to defensively fight, like you. If they can't defend themselves, they can't attack the enemy," he commanded sternly. The reassuring look in Aegon's eyes calmed Tommel as he nodded, turning around to pick up his dropped sword. Aegon walked over and put the dull practice sword back on the rack, and once done he walked to the door. He turned to look at the guards, scanning the room until he found one guard in particular.


"You, Mayson, come with me," Aegon said. He called on Mayson specifically because he was one of the few guards who wasn't falling behind in training and was learning exceptionally well. Aegon walked out of the training room, beginning to walk to the mailing room. When Mayson caught up, Aegon turned his head slightly to look at him.


"You're learning faster than the others, that means you're working harder. I appreciated that, continue to do so," he said, continuing to walk.


"I have many jobs to do today, and I can't possibly get it all done by the time my father returns. Because of your exceptional learning during training, you're getting the day off of fighting, you'll be helping me around the castle," Aegon informed. He wasn't sure how Mayson would react to being taken of training duty, but he hoped the guard would help him without protest.


They made it to the mailing room and walked in, Aegon grabbing some parchment and some ink, motioning for Mayson to do the same.


"I have to make invitations for the four Generals of the Walls to attend a duel me and my father will have upon his return. I'll need your help with this, to begin," Aegon instructed, sitting down at the small table and beginning to write the formal invitation.

"GROOOOOOAAAARR!!!"


The massive beast roared as it stood tall on its hind legs, towering over the man who stood before it. Beneath its shaggy brown fur were giant muscles, stronger than steel. From the hands at the ends of the creature's massive arms were long, sharp claws, capable of tearing through both flesh and armor with ease. As it roared, the light from the sun glinted off its large, razor sharp fangs.


Most mortal men would quake in fear when faced by a massive dire bear, especially one bred for war. The crimson haired man who stood before this embodiment of nature's wrath was an exception, however. The man simply stood his ground as the bear swung at him, before ducking under the deadly claws at the last second.


The man quickly closed the distance between him and the bear, ducking away from a few more swings as he did so. The man didn't bother drawing one of the two blades he had sheathed at his waist. Instead, he leaped at the bear, wrapping his arms as far as he could around the beast's thick neck, which, needless to say, was not all the way. To an onlooker, it would seem as if all was lost as the bear wrapped its arms around the man to crush him to death. However, the screams of agony never came, as the bear rolled down onto its back.


"Good boy," Alexei said as he patted Vlad's shaggy head.


"Gruh," Vlad grunted in reply, releasing Alexei from the hug. Alexei and Vlad had been born on the same hour of the same day, and had grown up together. The two were practically inseparable. After all, it's pretty hard to force a 1,000 pound dire bear to seperate from someone when it doesn't want to.


Alexei rolled off of Vlad's stomach and onto the grass next to him, looking up at the blue sky. Alexei was the oldest of seventeen princes and princesses of the Ruskie Imperium, and successor to his father's throne. He had traveled to the nearby Empire of Huntrey as a guest. It was on the palace grounds of this empire that he and Vlad now lay.


"It's much colder back home," he remarked to himself, thinking of the nearly year long winters that would envelope most of the Ruskie Imperium. Thinking of home, his thoughts naturally drifted to his father. The man hadn't been much of a parent to any of his seventeen children, but Vlad still thought of him. After all, he was growing older. Many people expected Alexei to take over the Imperium within the next few years. Only time would tell.


"Grur," Vlad agreed.

Valkyrie waved goodbye seconds before Arcay took off. "Bye bye brother~ Remember to smile~!" Her own smile stretched across her face. First Val was enjoying the rush of air on her face. The wind picking at her hair, scooping up the 'cape' of her dress and pulling I up as if it were her own pair of wings. Then, of course, dear father got straight to the point. Oh Father...Straightforward as always~


"Whom do I wish to wed~?" The girl hummed out as she rested her head on her father's back. "Who DO I wish to wed?" She repeated again but this time thoughtfully. "Well there is this most adorable servant in the castle, such a cute lad I believe around my age~ Ah! And the knight and the merchant's son~! How am I ever going to choose between them all~!" Valkyrie exclaimed but followed it with a playful laugh. "And, of course, there is the Ruskie~ Alexei~" She supposed this is who her father and mother really wanted her to consider. "We've spent some time together, true. He is a handsome man indeed, strong, I can't really judge his character too much based on what I've seen." Val picked at her nails in a dream like state. "He does have a bear, mighty beast that thing is. While others cowered in fear I walked right up and pet it~! Quite the miracle didn't get mauled~ That has to say something~"


Valkyrie removed her head from her father's back then leaned over, looking at the ground below. "Give me a bit more time, if you please... Marriage is a big thing. Permanent. I don't want some man who expect me to stay at some castle like a hopeless kitten. Neither do I want a lazy man who makes me do everything. Personally I wouldn't mind however I won't say I wouldn't put a dagger up his arse. I know i'm 21 but give me time. " Did she love a man? Oh yes...she did. Though she was still unsure of the whole thing. This man...this man....the one that the princess Valkyrie finally fell for..would be revealed some time. It could be the servant, or a knight, or a merchant, or her dear Alexei~ It was a big guessing game for others and she kept it that way. She couldn't spoil it just yet! What fun would that be?


"What else is there to talk about father? This talk of marriage has left a sour taste in my mouth, surely we have other things to discuss?" Val changed the topic as her eyes examined the area. How she loved flying~ Well...on Arcay~ So free, so wonderful, it was like almost a dream~ If she could, she would marry the wind~! Then she would get to soar for the rest of her life~! Laughter sang out at the thought. Marry the wind~ What a beautifully crazy thought~

Aegon Manchester

Aegon finished up writing the letters, and waited for his guard to finish as well. He stacked the letters and stood up, walking over to the small box. He put the letters in it, where later another man would take them and send them by carrier pigeon to where they needed to go.


"Come. We're going back to the training room," he said, opening the door and walking out of it. Once they were both out in the hallway, the Young King continued. "Well, you're going to the training room. Start sparring with the other guards, one by one. Loser of the spar must start preparing the training area to fit all of the guards and generals, as well as room for proper swordplay," he informed, "Keep sparring, every time someone loses they also help prepare the training area. Final winner doesn't have to prepare. If you are truly better than the rest of the guards, you'll be lucky enough to train against everyone and not have to prepare the training area," Aegon rambled on his way to the training room.


"That training area better be prepared by nightfall, or the guard is going to have to bear with the punishment tomorrow," the Young King finished, walking up to the training room door. "Don't let them slack off, I know they tend to, but don't let them."


Aegon began walking down the hall again. The day should be more than halfway over, but there wasn't much else for him to do. He took the piece of paper his father had given to him out of his pocket to look at it. I'll get the artifacts later, he thought, first, my brothers could use a visit.


And with that, Aegon started towards the library, where he had no doubt his brother Ignis was.

Assailant said:

Maxwell Teller Soldier and Right Hand Man of Marcus Tasteris

Maxwell laughs as Marcus mentions the Carver, "Oh, I don't know my lord. Maybe the Carver will be a fair dame!" He then proceeds to laugh even more. Of course Maxwell didn't believe in the Carver: he simply thought they kept discovering new caves. One would be surprised, however, of the rumors that went around about the Carver. Some thought it to be a manifestation of the devil, others thought it to be a God of some form! There were even small groups dedicated to worshipping it! It was insanity!


Nonetheless, it was fun to let people have their imaginations. The fact of the matter remained, however, that open caves led straight into the city: a bad sign for a defending city. And he wasn't the first, nor the last, to go into those caves to find a horde of monsters trying to rush the exit.


However, Marcus had a point. Certainly the city would be fine without them for a few short hours. As his laughter calms down and he is left with a simple smile, Maxwell speaks, "Certainly. Mapping out more terrain is a great idea." He then grinned mischievously and chuckled, "Wandering sounds like a great idea right now."


@TheAncientCenturion

Click to expand...

A light chuckle escaped Marcus' mouth at the mention of this fair lady, the Carver. The idea was lunacy, it was likely some abnormally large mole, and less of a super natural beast or demon. Though, Marcus wouldn't put it past the swamp to have its own dark secrets. Before the TAC rebellion ventured down here, before the Allon's Dynasty fell and refuges fled to the swamps, the native marsh-landers were known for human sacrifice and consumption, for their various rituals. The sort of uncivilized behavior that frankly repulsed Marcus, counting his luck that the earlier refuges a century before hand stamped most of these traditions out. A darkness in either essence alone or a physical manifestation haunting the bogs wouldn't surprise the young King. These were, until the settlement of Antiad, entirely wild lands filled with constant death. A chance of the supernatural being present in this land wouldn't be a shocking reveal.


"Yes, and I shall claim her for myself, name her Queen of the lands. Mayhaps she will carve a tunnel through every city we siege, eh? That would be convenient." He returned the joke, shooting his Right hand a playful smile as his horse ran forward.


"Let us map out the land, double check the traps! Make safe the passage of my people!" Call it what you'd like, the High King intended to do little actual work this day. His father, Gairit Tasteris, would handle it as per the norm. The youth was adventurous, he couldn't be held down by such responsibility at such an early age, at the very least not when there was still a war to rage.


"Shall we run to their border? Mock their Kings, challenge the Emperor to a decisive duel? In one terrible blow, I'd end the war. We'd be living in the actual Palace by sun rise tomorrow." The young adult was lost in his fantasies, of fighting through hordes of his enemies, cutting them apart before finally reaching the Emperor. A glorious delusion of reality, but Marcus preferred his minds interpretations of the world at these times. It made things much easier.


The young King continued to ride out against the murky waters that ran parallel to the few passages one could take by foot to get around this section of the swamp. Keeping a watchful gaze for any shifting movements in the still waters, though it seemed safe. At least his steed didn't notice any danger, and the animal usually had a better sense for these things then the High King. The land was largely explored, at least this area. With the only unexpected danger coming from the changing of tides. A person could be stranded on a small patch of land for hours if the tides came in fast enough, and god-forbid that they are caught in the waters.


Marcus seemed to go silent after a little while, not even checking to see if Sir Maxwell was behind him. Of course the man was, the Rebel King thought. Sir Maxwell would remain at his side until otherwise ordered, he was a good and honorable man. Marcus passed by at least three different villages of the native tribal peoples, his subjects and allies, technically. They didn't bother giving the King a second glance as they got to their work, largely fishing. A dangerous profession in these parts. Marcus didn't bother to slow or stop until they reached one of the two roads, a mixture of paved and dirt. Long ago, they had been stone cobbled, but the land steadily cast out the rocks. Making for an uneven strand of land. They were getting closer to the Empire's Wall, still quite a distance, but the swamp was more tame here. Mild, even.


"Shall we keep going forward, Sir Maxwell? I suspect that we're heading out of my realm, but my father tells me to keep my eye on the prize. What better way to do this then to literally look at the large walls the Empire has produced?" A sly smile escaped him, the man wasn't truly asking for advice at the moment, but instead to make for quick banter. Before he even finished, the pulled on the reigns and urged the horse to slowly trot forward.

Maxwell Teller


Soldier And Right Hand Man Of Marcus Tasteris




Maxwell chuckled at the young king's enthusiasm and excitement as he rode steadily towards the walls. As Marcus had suspected, Max had been following the entire time.


Max really didn't figure it a good idea to ride so close to the walls, but he wasn't going to ruin the young king's mood. He'd stop the kind from doing anything TOO stupid. That thought gave him another chuckle.


Soldiers were there to protect the people and the king from invaders, but he got to be the lucky soldier tasked with keeping the king safe from himself. It was ever difficult, but it was worth it to be granted not only the King's friendship, but to see him in these ever rare moments of freedom and joy.


The few that saw him with the king on their off time, or even while just together, would often think a morph had kidnapped him, and changed to look like him and take his place. In public, especially politics, Maxwell was ever serious. To a fault even. But when with the king, they were laughing and having a jolly time.


Max didn't know if he was juvenile at heart, and the king just brought that out, or if he was a serious person, and the king was a strange influence on him. He may never know. Nothing to lay awake at night thinking about though.


Not that that had stopped him.

Mockingbird said:

Valkyrie

​

Valkyrie waved goodbye seconds before Arcay took off. "Bye bye brother~ Remember to smile~!" Her own smile stretched across her face. First Val was enjoying the rush of air on her face. The wind picking at her hair, scooping up the 'cape' of her dress and pulling I up as if it were her own pair of wings. Then, of course, dear father got straight to the point. Oh Father...Straightforward as always~


"Whom do I wish to wed~?" The girl hummed out as she rested her head on her father's back. "Who DO I wish to wed?" She repeated again but this time thoughtfully. "Well there is this most adorable servant in the castle, such a cute lad I believe around my age~ Ah! And the knight and the merchant's son~! How am I ever going to choose between them all~!" Valkyrie exclaimed but followed it with a playful laugh. "And, of course, there is the Ruskie~ Alexei~" She supposed this is who her father and mother really wanted her to consider. "We've spent some time together, true. He is a handsome man indeed, strong, I can't really judge his character too much based on what I've seen." Val picked at her nails in a dream like state. "He does have a bear, mighty beast that thing is. While others cowered in fear I walked right up and pet it~! Quite the miracle didn't get mauled~ That has to say something~"


Valkyrie removed her head from her father's back then leaned over, looking at the ground below. "Give me a bit more time, if you please... Marriage is a big thing. Permanent. I don't want some man who expect me to stay at some castle like a hopeless kitten. Neither do I want a lazy man who makes me do everything. Personally I wouldn't mind however I won't say I wouldn't put a dagger up his arse. I know i'm 21 but give me time. " Did she love a man? Oh yes...she did. Though she was still unsure of the whole thing. This man...this man....the one that the princess Valkyrie finally fell for..would be revealed some time. It could be the servant, or a knight, or a merchant, or her dear Alexei~ It was a big guessing game for others and she kept it that way. She couldn't spoil it just yet! What fun would that be?


"What else is there to talk about father? This talk of marriage has left a sour taste in my mouth, surely we have other things to discuss?" Val changed the topic as her eyes examined the area. How she loved flying~ Well...on Arcay~ So free, so wonderful, it was like almost a dream~ If she could, she would marry the wind~! Then she would get to soar for the rest of her life~! Laughter sang out at the thought. Marry the wind~ What a beautifully crazy thought~

Click to expand...

Arcay is a smooth ride, gliding through the clouds high enough that you couldn't see what was below. There was no turbulent this high up, and as such Arcay slowed down so she didn't have to beat her wings. A low hum was heard from her, mostly due to the Emperor's hand running up and down her neck.


As the ride slowed, Hunter straightened to allow his daughter a more comfortable pillow. He listened to her words intently, but all the while his seriousness with the subject was hidden with his smile. The only daughter he had, the one girl he cared besides his Empress, and the one person who could always put a smile on his face since the day she was born. "Oh, how you sound like me, the many choices had me turning as well! But you'll find out who, for now we can focus on something else." Hunter turned his head to look at his daughter, a smile on his face as he saw himself in her.





There are many fine men in this Empire. The servants aren't favorable, but I can't judge, I'm married to a viking woman. There is a knight, Sir Richard, a wonderful fighter on my personal guard. Hard to recall his character, but to be that high he must be reasonable. And Alexei... Hunter let out a small chuckle as he turned his head back to the front, He and his bear, Hunter ran his hand down Arcay, I shall meet with him soon. He came for many reasons, but was my daughter's hand one of them? We shall see, won't we?





"Val, tell me, does Aegon having a piece of the throne bother you? There are four children and four pieces of my Empire, but I gave Aegon his because he was eldest. You're next in line," Hunter paused, yawning a bit. "I have chosen yours already, but I thought you would want more time to be a Princess, as you are quite gifted in it~".





The Emperor smiled to himself, happy with the children he was raising. They were growing and he was realizing this, almost causing him to tear against the wind.

Huntrey said:

EMPEROR HUNTREY

​

Arcay is a smooth ride, gliding through the clouds high enough that you couldn't see what was below. There was no turbulent this high up, and as such Arcay slowed down so she didn't have to beat her wings. A low hum was heard from her, mostly due to the Emperor's hand running up and down her neck.


As the ride slowed, Hunter straightened to allow his daughter a more comfortable pillow. He listened to her words intently, but all the while his seriousness with the subject was hidden with his smile. The only daughter he had, the one girl he cared besides his Empress, and the one person who could always put a smile on his face since the day she was born. "Oh, how you sound like me, the many choices had me turning as well! But you'll find out who, for now we can focus on something else." Hunter turned his head to look at his daughter, a smile on his face as he saw himself in her.





There are many fine men in this Empire. The servants aren't favorable, but I can't judge, I'm married to a viking woman. There is a knight, Sir Richard, a wonderful fighter on my personal guard. Hard to recall his character, but to be that high he must be reasonable. And Alexei... Hunter let out a small chuckle as he turned his head back to the front, He and his bear, Hunter ran his hand down Arcay, I shall meet with him soon. He came for many reasons, but was my daughter's hand one of them? We shall see, won't we?


"Val, tell me, does Aegon having a piece of the throne bother you? There are four children and four pieces of my Empire, but I gave Aegon his because he was eldest. You're next in line," Hunter paused, yawning a bit. "I have chosen yours already, but I thought you would want more time to be a Princess, as you are quite gifted in it~".





The Emperor smiled to himself, happy with the children he was raising. They were growing and he was realizing this, almost causing him to tear against the wind.

Click to expand...

The princess returned her Father's smile with her own bright one. Nothing made her happier than to be flying on a dragon's back with her father....Well actually there were many things that made Val very happy. This one was just high on her list.


Valkyrie curiously watched her Father as he was obviously thinking over things. Though it may not seem like that to others, Val was very good at reading people...especially her family. She began to ponder about her own things when her Father asked her one of the most surprising questions of her life.


"A piece...of the throne?" Her eyes flickered in shock. Her.....having her own kingdom, ruling, being a QUEEN. It seemed just too good of an offer to pass! Any and all thoughts about marriage vanished. The flight that was making her so happy was replaced by a new form of joy. Queen Valkyrie....


"I am almost lost in words." The Queen-to-be breathed out. "To be offered a piece of the kingdom...that is too tempting to deny~!" That small dream she abandoned long ago came rushing back in an instant. This time it was real. Pride swelled in her chest, followed by a wild excitement. Wait till she told her dear older brother that soon she would be ruling beside him. In her shocked, joy filled mind all she could think about was how happy her family will be. If she gets one out of four pieces...that meant the other two siblings would rule a piece too~! No doubt they will get excited when she spilled the 'little secret'. Though in this overwhelmed state, rationality slipped in.


"Oh what do do...if I take this my dear role as a princess will be lost forever~! And just as I perfected the role~!" A dramatic sad sigh escaped her lips. "Father, tell me...what made you decide now? Why give me a piece of the kingdom?" The questions slipped out with true curiosity. "What part shall I get? I will gladly accept the offer though I am a tad curious, you understand right?" She raised an eyebrow. "If I am to get married then...would all the power be handed to my dearest husband like rulers before us? Or will I still maintain my position as I do here? Oh my, what ever am I going to do with my Mockingbird Chamber?" Valkyrie leaned back to stare at the sky. "So many preporations....so much work..." Her smiled curled. "How fun this will be~ Ah I say we throw a party when we return~! The grandest party of allllll~" Valkyrie sang out and she stretched out her arms, leaning forward to wrap them around he Emperor. "Thank you father. I shall not let you down."

As soon as Aegon opened the door, a large book would be sent flying his way. Across the room, the young Ignis was pacing back and forth, unaware of his brother's entrance. The leather book in his hand had his full attention. The boy brought his thumb to his mouth and bit down on it, the finger turning crimson as blood rushed to the sight. Ignis nodded lightly and closed the book, putting it on the table. He turned to a stack of outdated and useless books, the amulet around his neck growing a deep purple color as six tendril like arms seemingly shot out of his back and zoomed towards the books.


A moment later, paper and parchment was flying through the air. Before the boy could register what had happened and praise himself, he noticed that Aegon had entered the room. "Oh.... Aegon. I'm sorry, you caught me at a bad time. I was just.... Studying." Ignis put a hand on his head and sighed as he looked at the mess he had made. The servants would hate him even more for the extra work he was giving them. It was bad enough they gave him dirty looks and tried to trip him as he walked down the halls, he didn't need them trying to pelt him with stones and hanging him.


Ignis began to pick up the remnants of the books that had been demolished by his spell. He placed them in a pile at the center of the room and began to look around for some place to put them. "Um... Uh... I'll deal with it later." Ignis shoved his journal into his pants pocket and sighed before turning to Aegon. He clasped his hands together, slightly surprised that Aegon had shown up to check on him. "So.... This is... Unusual. You don't usually come to... Interact with me. What's the special occasion?"